You can therefore expect that Pivot under the product name Mach 5.5 has developed a damn fast, super sharp enduro MTB with extraordinary capabilities. And the Americans deliver what the model name promises. The carbon fibre chassis not only looks damn sexy in red, but also made the corners of our mouths turn upwards during the test. If you judge strictly according to the regulations, the Pivot falls into the all-mountain category with its measured 150 millimetres of rear suspension travel. Anyone who likes to combine long tours with technical descents will love this bike. The DW-Link rear suspension remains remarkably stable when climbing, even without a platform, and harmonises so perfectly with the potent 36 mm Fox fork on singletrack that the Mach 5.5 can even flirt with the enduro genre. Even moderate bike park use does not upset this bike. The wide 2.6 mm tyres make a good impression on trails with hard ground, but they lack a little precision on loose forest soil. The rubber compound of the Maxxis tyres also has its problems in the wet. With a moderate 66-degree steering angle and the short chainstays, the bike can easily weave through even the tightest singletrails. The Shimano XT parts are a little meagre considering the price, but do their job reliably as usual. The large 11-46-tooth cassette provides additional range for the 1x11 Shimano drivetrain.
Ludwig Döhl, test editor BIKE:
The Pivot Mach 5.5 is a real all-rounder. Whether it's a long trail tour or moderate bike park use, the new development from Arizona can cope with any challenge. The DW-Link rear triangle harmonises perfectly with the potent 36 mm fork from Fox. The overall weight and frame weight are not outstanding for a 7000 euro all-mountain bike.
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