Unveiled: Lightest 150mm Travel E-Bike from Pivot - Questionable Tire and Component Choices Made?
Pivot Introduces Lightweight e-Bike SL/AM
Pivot Cycles has introduced a new e-bike offering, the SL/AM, which boasts an impressive lightweight design, a Bosch SX motor, and 150mm of travel.
The SL/AM sets itself apart from other e-bikes in the market with a focus on minimal weight, achieving a sub-18kg frame, making it one of the lightest 150mm travel e-bikes available. The lightweight design contributes to a nimble and agile ride, an attractive proposition for trail riders seeking a balance between e-bike assistance and a more natural feel.
Powering the SL/AM is the Bosch SX motor, delivering 600W peak power and 55Nm of torque. This motor configuration provides sufficient assistance for most trails while maintaining a more subtle and responsive feel, as compared to higher-powered systems.
Built around Pivot's dw-link suspension design, the SL/AM offers 150mm of rear travel partnered with a 160mm fork. The dw-link system promises a playful and engaging riding experience, creating a unique character distinct from heavier and more powerful e-bikes.
Further underscoring its versatility, the SL/AM features a flip chip to switch to a mullet wheel setup, in addition to bike sizes ranging from XS to XL with tailored frame characteristics for each size. This caters to a wide spectrum of rider preferences and terrain types.
The SL/AM comes with a 400Wh battery, with the option to upgrade to the Powermore 250 range extender. This addition boosts the total capacity to 650Wh, though the base battery capacity is relatively modest compared to other 150mm travel e-bikes.
Pivot offers three build options, denominated by drivetrain quality: Team XX Eagle Transmission, Pro X0 Eagle Transmission, and Ride Eagle 70/90. Each build comes equipped with the same Maxxis Minion DHF 29 up front tire and a Maxxis Minion DHRII 29 rear tire, with the top-end Team XX offering carbon wheels.
The SL/AM's progressive all-mountain geometry positions the head angle at 64.1° and keeps the bottom bracket height at around 345mm, providing a well-rounded blend for both climbing and descending terrain.
Whether the SL/AM's impressive weight or lightweight motor setup will prove to be beneficial in real-world use is yet to be determined. However, considering the success Pivot has had with its previous Shuttle models, it is likely that the new SL/AM will be well-received by a segment of trail riders seeking a balance between nimbleness and assistance.
Optional Fox Live Valve NEO Upgrade
Riders seeking an even more responsive and adaptive ride experience can opt for the Fox Live Valve NEO air shock upgrade on the Pro and Team builds. While this upgrade comes at an additional cost, it promises an intuitive response and improved climbing performance, best suited for racers or riders prioritizing peak efficiency.
Notes:
- Enrichment Data suggests that the SL/AM's weight, lightweight motor configuration, and dw-link suspension contribute to its distinct riding character that sets it apart from other e-bikes.
- Relevant facts from Enrichment Data include the SL/AM's weight standing out in the mid-travel e-bike category and its playful and responsive character.
- Enrichment Data indicates that the SL/AM offers 29-inch wheels as standard and a flip chip to switch to a mullet wheel setup. Additionally, the SL/AM is available in five sizes, including an XS, which is rather rare for an e-bike.
- Enrichment Data explains that the SL/AM's dw-link suspension design is Pivot's proprietary system, which consists of a fixed rear end connected to the front triangle by two short links rotating in the same direction.
- Enrichment Data notes the SL/AM's 400Wh battery capacity, optional Powermore 250 range extender, and three build options, priced from £12,999 ($12,399) to £8,599 ($8,000).
Enduro bikes enthusiasts might appreciate the lightweight SL/AM e-bike, which sports a dw-link suspension design and comes with a focus on minimal weight. Incorporating gadgets like the Fox Live Valve NEO air shock upgrades, this e-bike embodies cutting-edge sports technology, aiming to offer a responsive and adaptive riding experience.
