Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 Review
- Price: $7199
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: Maxxis Assegai 29″ x 2.5″
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: The high-quality carbon fiber material and Pivot’s proprietary hollow core molding technology ensure an extraordinary riding experience for every rider, ranging from 5’4″ to 6’8″.
What we don’t like about it: The expensive price may not be very friendly for some riders.
Rating: (4.9/5)
My friend, who loves long-distance cycling, told me about the new Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01. He said it’s an outstanding bike, perfect for long rides and fitness.
Yes, I found the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01. I’m going to test this bike and eagerly anticipate its performance.
Below, we’ll analyze the riding experience, main features, components, specifications, and other versions. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it with several other top bike models. If you want to read more bike reviews, stay tuned with us.
Riding Experience
Off-Road Riding
In the morning, accompanied by a gentle breeze, I began the ride. I stood up to accelerate, using the dropper to lower the seat height, preventing my legs from hitting the seat. Soon, I encountered an uphill section, and I adjusted the SRAM X01 Eagle 12-Speed to the smallest gear ratio, allowing me to effortlessly conquer the ascent without feeling strained. Throughout the entire route, it was the smart distribution of my energy that made it possible.
Next, I rode down a steep slope, and I had to constantly control my speed. The SRAM Code RSC 4-piston Hydraulic Disc brakes were reliable, allowing me to maintain perfect control.
Moreover, the outskirts had lots of loose gravel and dry branches. Thanks to the Maxxis Assegai 29″ x 2.5″ tires, the bike performed flawlessly on any road. The front wheel provided firm control, and the rear wheel delivered steady power, allowing me to roll over the loose gravel with ease. I was concerned about the suspension on this kind of terrain, but the 170mm front travel provided strong damping, and I hardly felt any bumps. The front wheel remained stable, giving me a great sense of confidence.
Is that all?
In the corners, the Maxxis Assegai 29″ x 2.5″ tires provide excellent grip at any lean angle. The Phoenix Factory Lock-On grips helped me firmly hold onto the One Up Low Rise Carbon – 800mm handlebar, allowing me to maneuver the bike smoothly. Even in hazardous situations, the SRAM Code RSC 4-piston Hydraulic Disc brakes stopped promptly, ensuring my safety.
Moreover, the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 comes with the excellent Phoenix WTB Volt Pro saddle. It’s a remarkable seat with its contoured shape supporting my ischium, and the center relief reduces pressure on sensitive areas. The material of the saddle has antibacterial properties, so I don’t need to worry about infections during off-road rides.
Additionally, the Phoenix Factory Lock-On grips have an ergonomically designed, lightweight carbon fiber single clamp. With raised micro-grid patterns and indexed alignment markers, they offer a comfortable and secure grip, preventing hand fatigue and slippage.
Specifications
The Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 is an exceptional full-suspension endurance mountain bike. It features a Firebird aluminum frame and a Fox Factory 38 29″ fork. Additionally, the Maxxis Assegai 29″ x 2.5″ tires provide outstanding traction.
Furthermore, this bike is equipped with an SRAM X01 Eagle 12-Speed rear derailleur, offering smooth shifting. The Phoenix WTB Volt Pro saddle provides a comfortable seat, allowing riders to sit for extended periods without feeling stiff.
Video
Other Versions
After numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It is an outstanding hardtail mountain bike.
However, many riders have specific performance requirements or component preferences, so we found other bikes of the same type for further investigation.
Pivot Firebird 29 RIDE LIKE A PRO
These two bikes share identical geometry. The Pivot Firebird 29 RIDE LIKE A PRO comes with a carbon frame and a Fox Performance Float 38 fork, along with aluminum wheels. Its 170mm front travel suspension performs similarly to the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01(170mm front travel).
Moreover, this bike has an electronic suspension, allowing for more precise adjustment of the suspension. It is $1000 more expensive than the Pivot Firebird 29 RIDE LIKE A PRO. So, if you’re on a tighter budget, the Pivot Firebird 29 RIDE LIKE A PRO might be more suitable for you. However, if you desire more precise electronic suspension, I would recommend the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01.
What do we like about it?
- Specific sizing adjustments, leading carbon fiber material, and Pivot’s proprietary hollow core molding technology ensure that every rider, ranging from 5 feet 2 inches to 6 feet 9 inches, has a perfectly tailored and high-performing bike.
- The Firebird’s Hollow Core carbon fiber structure provides a tight, sturdy, and lightweight frame.
- Modern geometry tailored for aggressive riding allows the Firebird to perform at high speeds.
- The internal cable routing is very clean.
What don’t we like about it?
- The expensive price may not be very friendly for some riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
It is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- How many water bottle cages does this bike have?
It has two bottle cages.
- What’s the braking system of this bike?
Its braking system is SRAM Code RSC 4-piston Hydraulic Disc.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are general guidelines, and the most effective way to find your size is to try it out for yourself.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | SM |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | MD |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | LG |
| 6’1″ – 6’8″ | XL |
Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 Specs
Build
| Frame | FirebirdColors: Silver Sunrise; Glacial Green Metallic; Orange |
| Fork | Fox Factory 38 29″, 44mm offset, GRIP2 – 170mm |
| Rear Shock | Fox Factory Float X2 |
| Headset | Pivot Precision Sealed Cartridge |
| Stem | Phoenix Team Enduro/Trail |
| Handlebar | One Up Low Rise Carbon – 800mm |
| Saddle | Phoenix WTB Volt Pro (Medium Width) |
| Seatpost | Fox Transfer Factory Series 150mm (SM), 175mm (MD-LG), 200mm (XL) |
| Grips | Phoenix Factory Lock-On |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM X01 Eagle 12-Speed |
| Crank | SRAM X01 Eagle DUB 32t |
| Shifters | SRAM X01 Eagle 12-Speed |
| Cassette | SRAM XG-1275 10-52t |
| Chain | SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed |
| Brakes | SRAM Code RSC 4-piston |
Wheels
| Rims | DT Swiss XM1700 w/ DT Swiss 350 hub & 36t Star Ratchet 30mm – 29″ <br>15×110 F/12×157 R |
| Tires | Maxxis Assegai 29″ x 2.5″ WT, TR, 3C, EXO+, MAXXTERRA <br /Maxxis Assegai 29″ x 2.5″ WT, TR, 3C, EXO+, MAXXTERRA |
| Disk Rotors | SRAM Centerline Centerlock – 200mm<br /SRAM Centerline Centerlock – 200mm |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Canyon Spectral 29 CFR | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHRII 3C MaxxTerra EXO | 1 x 12 | Carbon | Shimano XTR, Race Face |
| Trek Slash 9.8 XT | Click View | Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready | 1 x 12 | Carbon | Shimano XT |
| Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHF | 1×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM GX Eagle AXS |
| YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX | Click View | MAXXIS ASSEGAI I HINTEN | 1 x 12 | Carbon | SRAM X01 Eagle, Cane Creek |
Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 vs Canyon Spectral 29 CFR
The Pivot Firebird 29 Pro features 170mm front travel, offering superior suspension performance compared to the Canyon Spectral 29 CFR with its 160mm front travel. Additionally, the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro comes with Electronic Suspension, allowing for precise adjustment of the suspension.
The Canyon Spectral 29 CFR has a Stack/Reach Ratio of 1.3, which is greater than the stack/reach ratio of the Firebird 29 Pro X01 (1.28), making it a more comfortable ride. Moreover, the head tube angle of the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 is steeper than that of the Canyon Spectral 29 CFR, making the latter ride more stable.
So, if you prefer a more comfortable and stable ride, the Canyon Spectral 29 CFR is well-suited for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize precise suspension adjustments, the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 will better meet your needs.
Learn More: Is Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Review]
Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 vs Trek Slash 9.8 XT
The Trek Slash 9.8 XT features a carbon frame, making it slightly lighter than the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 with its aluminum frame. However, it may be more prone to breakage when facing impacts from the side. Therefore, the aluminum frame of the Firebird 29 Pro X01 is more robust.
The Firebird 29 Pro X01 comes with electronic suspension, allowing for more precise adjustment of the suspension. Additionally, it can reach a faster speed, up to 28mph, compared to the Trek Slash 9.8 XT, which can only reach 26mph.
So, if you prefer a sturdier bike, the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 is well-suited for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter bike, the Trek Slash 9.8 XT will better meet your needs.
Learn More: Is Trek Slash 9.8 GX Worth Buying? [2022 Trek Slash 9.8 GX review]
Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 vs Scott Contessa Genius ST 910
The Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 is equipped with more durable aluminum wheels. However, compared to the carbon wheels of the Scott Contessa Genius ST 910, they are heavier.
Additionally, the Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 comes with a 1×12 Electronic drivetrain, providing very precise and consistent shifting. It is also easy to maintain, requiring only regular charging. However, electronic drivetrains come with higher costs and more complex maintenance issues compared to mechanical drivetrains.
In conclusion, if you prefer a bike with convenient maintenance, the Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 will suit you well. If you prioritize simpler maintenance, the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 will be more suitable for you.
Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 vs YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX
The YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX comes with carbon wheels available in two sizes: 29″ and 27.5″. The 27.5″ wheels offer great agility, while the 29″ wheels provide better terrain clearance, giving riders more options. Although carbon wheels are lighter, they are not as durable as the aluminum wheels of the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01.
Furthermore, the Stack/Reach Ratio of the YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX is 1.37, which is larger than the stack/reach ratio of the Firebird 29 Pro X01 (1.28). This means riders will have better reach and flexibility, resulting in a more comfortable ride.
So, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, I would recommend the YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX. If you desire sturdier wheels, the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01 would be your best choice.
Summary
The above is our review of the Pivot Firebird 29 Pro X01. This excellent full-suspension endurance mountain bike offers an outstanding riding experience, leading to a high rating of 4.9. If you want more information about bikes, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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