High-end enduro bikes from the USATest winner Pivot Shuttle LT Team XTR on test

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 05.06.2023

Pivot Shuttle LT Team XTR, 11,999 euros
Photo: Max Fuchs
The Arizona-based bike manufacturer Pivot was one of the first US cult brands to jump on the E-MTB bandwagon. The Pivot Shuttle LT is the perfect mix of lively handling and smooth running. And that is why it is the test winner in our test of high-end enduro bikes from the USA.

The original 2017 Shuttle was already a tip for trail fans. Now, for the first time, the Americans have created a real long-travel bike. The Pivot Shuttle LT also relies on the Shimano motor (EP8), but it gets its power from a 750 battery from Darfon. When you press the ON button (very tough in the cold!) and get into the saddle, the first thing you notice is the enormous size of the bike.

Pivot's kinematics also come from suspension guru Dave Weagle, the founder of Evil Bikes - also in our test.Photo: Max FuchsPivot's kinematics also come from suspension guru Dave Weagle, the founder of Evil Bikes - also in our test.

The old adage "length matters" also applies to the Pivot Shuttle

The Pivot Shuttle LT is long and the front is high up. This makes the E-Enduro feel one size bigger than the competition from Santa Cruz and even more so Evil. The length is also noticeable on the trail. With its enormous wheelbase, the e-bike generates a lot of smoothness. The same applies to the powerful suspension, which filters out small and large bumps with great aplomb, but is never wasteful with the travel. This keeps the handling very defined and precise. Not a trace of ponderous riding style. The light wheels also play their part in the lively, direct handling.

A Pivot bike that makes you feel good

The cornering behaviour is particularly balanced. It doesn't take long to familiarise yourself with the Pivot Shuttle LT. On steep descents, the high front end provides a lot of security. On flat terrain, however, most testers found the cockpit too high. If in doubt, go for the smaller size. The high cockpit is also noticeable on climbs. Because when things get really steep, you want a little more pressure on the front wheel. The equipment is top, the weight is okay considering the large battery.

Conclusion on the Pivot Shuttle LT Team XTR by Florentin Vesenbeck, EMTB Test Manager:

The Pivot Shuttle LT is the perfect mix of lively handling and smooth running. A potent E-Enduro with balanced handling, very strong chassis and top range. However, it is large.
Florentin Vesenbeck, EMTB Test ManagerPhoto: Adrian VesenbeckhFlorentin Vesenbeck, EMTB Test Manager
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Technical data and notes on the Pivot Shuttle LT Team XTR

Manufacturer information

  • Price: 11,999 euros
  • Sizes / frame material: S , M , L (tested size 43.5 cm), XL / Carbon

Measured values²

  • Reach altitude¹: 1806 (+249) hm
  • Speed: 14 km/h
  • Weight²: 22.9 kilogrammes
  • Centre of gravity height: 538 mm
  • Handlebar width: 780 mm
  • Crank length / Q-factor: 165 mm / 180 mm
  • Ground clearance⁴: 500 mm

Equipment

  • Motor: Shimano EP8
  • Max. Torque³: 85 Nm
  • Battery³ / weight² / price Replacement battery: Darfon, 756 Wh / 4025 g / n/a A.
  • Gear system: Shimano XTR (12-speed)
  • Translation (v. / h.): 34; 10-51
  • Display: Shimano SC-EM800
  • Permissible total weight³: 149 kg
  • Fork / shock: Fox 38 Factory Grip2 / Float X Factory
  • Telescopic post: Fox Transfer Factory, 175 mm
  • Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Shimano XTR 9120 / Galfer 223 mm / 203 mm
  • Wheels: Newmen Evolution SL A 30
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai EXO+ MaxxTerra, 29 x 2.5"
Pivot Shuttle LT Team XTR- Geometry dataPhoto: EMTB-TestabteilungPivot Shuttle LT Team XTR- Geometry data
Pivot Shuttle LT Team XTR characteristicsPhoto: EMTB-TestabteilungPivot Shuttle LT Team XTR characteristicsPivot Shuttle LT Team XTR test diagramPhoto: EMTB-TestabteilungPivot Shuttle LT Team XTR test diagram

¹ The reach height was determined during standardised test rides on an asphalt climb with a gradient of 12.2 percent. Highest support level, 150 watts pedalling power of the rider, rider weight incl. equipment 90 kg. The altitude metres in clearly reduced emergency mode are shown in brackets. The average speed refers to the journey with full assistance.

² Determined on the test benches in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.

³ Manufacturer's specification

Step test, measured with 36 centimetre raised rear wheel

The judgement reflects the subjective impression of the testers and the results of the reach measurement and laboratory tests. The EMTB judgement is independent of price. EMTB judgements: super (from 9.0), very good (from 8.0), good (from 7.0), satisfactory (from 6.0), with weaknesses (from 5.0), below insufficient.

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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