Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR Review
- Price: $12,999
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 29″ Carbon
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: Powerful climbing performance, excellent geometry, and top-tier components.
What we don’t like about it: The price is too expensive and may not fit everyone’s budget.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR features a full carbon fiber frame and top-tier components, making it a powerful off-road riding machine designed for challenging terrain.
Now, let’s analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR.
In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it with several other top bicycle models. If you want to learn more about bicycle reviews, you can follow us.
Riding Experience
As a full-suspension endurance electric bike, the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR excels with its top-tier components, 29-inch wheels, and lightweight construction, making it highly versatile for mountain biking.
To test this, I took the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR to Hatfield-McCoy Trails (West Virginia) and booked a hotel in advance using IHG. This trail, also known as “Trails Heaven,” offers breathtaking mountain scenery, rugged paths through forests, and challenging terrain with loose rocks, tree roots, and some steep drops.
Climbing
During uphill climbs, the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR’s excellent suspension support minimized pedal bobbing, resulting in efficient pedaling.
Furthermore, the lightweight carbon fiber frame, coupled with top-tier components, ensures that the full-suspension endurance electric bike remains agile without being excessively heavy.
The powerful and smooth power output of the FAZUA RIDE 60 motor made uphill climbs easier and less demanding.
The excellent geometry of the bike distributes weight evenly, allowing it to maintain good contact with the ground. Combined with the strong traction provided by the Maxxis Dissector 29″ x 2.4″ large-grain tires, I experienced no slippage or wheel spin during climbs. This setup also ensured an efficient power drivetrain and ample riding dynamics.
Overall, I consider the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR to be an efficient climber among full-suspension endurance electric bikes.
Descending
The performance of the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR during descents is, in my opinion, perfect. The Fox Factory E-MTB 36 suspension fork offers 150mm of travel and provides excellent support, absorbing most of the impact when landing from drops and helping stabilize the bike’s posture. This instills confidence and enables me to tackle more complex and intense downhill sections.
The relaxed geometry and longer wheelbase, combined with the 29-inch wheels, provide a smooth descending experience. The larger wheel diameter allows me to handle small bumps and loose rocks with ease.
When approaching winding trails that require deceleration, the Shimano XTR M9120 brakes with a front Galfer Rotor 203mm and rear 180mm brake discs deliver top-tier braking performance. A light squeeze on the brake lever provides quick and responsive braking, allowing me to reduce speed in the shortest time possible and enter corners smoothly at the appropriate speed for seamless trail riding.
Overall, the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR’s descending capabilities make it one of the top full-suspension endurance electric bikes I’ve ridden.
Specifications
The Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR is available in four sizes (S-XL) with a carbon fiber frame featuring internal cable routing. It is suitable for riders with heights ranging from 5’2″ to 6’1″ and above, catering to a wide range of riders.
The mounting holes on the downtube support full-size water bottle installation, while the mounting holes on the top tube allow for carrying portable tools for longer rides.
The precise carbon fiber chassis houses the equally precise FAZUA RIDE 60 drive unit, delivering powerful and smooth power output while maintaining quiet operation. The dropper post design ensures the stability of the center of gravity during both climbing and descending, ensuring a consistent riding experience.
Lastly, the 29-inch wheels paired with the relaxed geometry provide stable riding during descents. The impressive traction ensures rapid downhill capabilities.
Video
Other Versions
The Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR is an exceptional full-suspension endurance electric bike with a top-tier frame and components. It boasts incredible riding performance, but its price is also exorbitant and may be too expensive for most riders.
To address this, we offer another version of the same brand with the same frame and motor but equipped with slightly lower-tier components. It delivers equally impressive riding performance and caters to a broader range of riders.
Pivot Shuttle SL Ride SLX/XT
The Pivot Shuttle SL Ride SLX/XT utilizes the same carbon fiber frame with internal cable routing and the high-performance FAZUA RIDE 60 motor.
Moreover, it features the Fox Performance E-MTB 36 suspension fork and Fox Performance E-MTB 36 rear shock, providing excellent support for tackling intense and complex descents.
In terms of drivetrain components, it combines the Shimano XT M8100 and Shimano SLX M7100 systems. They offer exceptional drivetrain efficiency and durability.
The Shimano SLX M7120 four-piston brakes with a front 203mm and rear 180mm brake disc provide reliable, powerful braking performance. The operation is comfortable, smooth, and dependable.
Next, we will provide specific details and list comparable full-suspension endurance electric bikes from other brands with similar pricing for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- The 150mm travel Fox 36 fork provides excellent E-MTB steering precision and powerful suspension performance.
- The clean and tidy appearance due to internal cable routing, making it easier to clean in daily maintenance.
- The carbon fiber frame is made from top-tier carbon fiber material and utilizes Pivot’s proprietary molding technology, resulting in high strength and lightweight construction.
- The chainstay protector reduces noise caused by chain slaps during rides.
- The Shuttle SL combines the strengths of traditional bicycles and e-bikes, offering a riding experience closer to that of traditional bikes.
- The FAZUA RIDE 60 motor offers outstanding engagement, and powerful power output.
What don’t we like about it?
- The high price makes it difficult for budget-conscious riders to make a purchasing decision.
FAQ
- How long does it take to charge the battery in this bike?
It generally takes 3.5 hours to fully charge the battery from empty.
- How much does this bike weigh?
It has an initial weight of 36.25 pounds (17 kilograms) or less.
- How do I choose the right size?
Here we have a sizing chart for you. Of course, it doesn’t always have to be followed, and the best way to find the perfect size is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’2″ – 5’8″ | S |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | M |
| 5’10” – 6’2″ | L |
| 6’1″ + | XL |
Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR Specs
Build
| Frame | Shuttle SL Colors: Blue Denim; Desert Sage Green |
| Fork | Fox Factory E-MTB 36 29″, 44mm offset, GRIP2 – 150mm |
| Rear Shock | Fox Factory Float X |
| Headset | Pivot Precision Sealed Cartridge |
| Stem | Phoenix Team Enduro/Trail |
| Handlebar | Phoenix Team Low Rise Carbon -780mm |
| Saddle | Phoenix WTB Volt Team (Medium Width) |
| Seatpost | Fox Transfer Factory Series 150mm (SM), 175mm (MD-LG), 200mm (XL) |
| Grips | Phoenix Factory Lock-On |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano XTR SGS 12-Speed |
| Crank | ROTOR EKAPIC E-MTB 32t |
| Shifters | Shimano XTR M9100 ISPEC EV 12-Speed |
| Cassette | Shimano XTR M9100 10-51t |
| Chain | Shimano CN-M9100 12-Speed |
| Brakes | Shimano XTR M9120 4-piston |
Wheels
| Rims | Reynolds Blacklabel 309/289 XC w/ Industry Nine Hydra hub 30mm F 28mm R – 29″ <br> 15×110 F/12×157 R |
| Tires | Maxxis Dissector 29″ x 2.4″ WT, TR, 3C, EXO, MAXXTERRA <br />Maxxis Dissector 29″ x 2.4″ WT, TR, 3C, EXO, MAXXTERRA |
| Disk Rotors | Galfer Rotor 203mm <br /> Galfer Rotor 180mm |
Electric Components
| Motor | FAZUA RIDE 60 |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Travel | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS | Click View | 140mm rear, 150mm front | Carbon | SRAM Code R 4-piston | 1 × 12 Electronic |
| Giant Trance X Advanced, E+ Elite 1 | Click View | 140mm rear, 150mm front | Carbon | SRAM Code R | 1 × 12 Electronic |
| YT IndustriesDecoy CORE 4 29 | Click View | 145mm rear, 150mm front | Carbon | SRAM CODE RSC | 1 × 12 |
| Kellys THEOS F100 SH 29″/27.5″ 825Wh | Click View | 140mm rear, 150mm front | Carbon | SHIMANO XTR | 1 × 12 Electronic |
Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR vs Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS
Both of these bikes are excellent representatives of their respective brands in the E-MTB field.
In terms of suspension systems, the former equipped with the Fox Factory E-MTB 36 fork offers better support, making it suitable for handling large drops. The second bike, featuring the RockShox Lyrik Select+ fork, provides better sensitivity, making it ideal for tackling continuous rough trails.
Regarding the drivetrain systems, the former utilizes the Shimano XTR M9100 components, which are Shimano’s top-tier drivetrain components. They offer smooth and comfortable operation, as well as a lighter weight. The second bike is equipped with SRAM GX Eagle AXS components, which provide crisp shifting and make electronic shifting adjustments easier.
Overall, between these two full-suspension endurance electric bikes, I would recommend the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR because it features higher-level components in its respective category.
Learn More: Is Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Worth Buying? [2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Review]
Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR vs Giant Trance X Advanced, E+ Elite 1
They both seem like very close E-MTBs. The two bikes feature the FAZUA RIDE 60 and SyncDrive Pro motors, respectively. Both of these motors are excellent and reliable, providing smooth power output.
Now let’s consider the drivetrain systems. the former is equipped with the Shimano XTR M9100 shifting system, which is of a higher corresponding level compared to the SRAM GX Eagle AXS components on the second bike. As a result, the former offers higher drivetrain efficiency and lighter shifting. On the other hand, the electronic version of the shifting on the second bike makes adjustments easier during tuning.
Lastly, when it comes to brakes, the Shimano XTR M9120 brakes on the former will provide stronger braking power compared to the SRAM Code R brakes. Additionally, I prefer the braking feel of Shimano brakes.
In conclusion, the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR offers slightly more powerful riding capabilities and is worth choosing.
Learn More: Is Giant Trance X E+ 2 Pro 29er Worth Buying? [2022 Giant Trance X E+ 2 Pro 29er Review]
Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR vs YT Industries Decoy CORE 4 29
These two bikes have a similar amount of suspension travel, and the choice of suspension components is also the same. Therefore, they both offer excellent support performance and exceptional downhill riding capabilities.
Moving on to the drivetrain components, the former equipped with the Shimano XTR M9100 drivetrain is of a higher level compared to the Shimano XT M8100 drivetrain on the second bike. It will be lighter in weight and offer a range of performance benefits, including improved drivetrain efficiency.
When it comes to the brake components, the Shimano XTR M9120 brakes on the Pivot Shuttle SL Team offer a more straightforward braking feel. The YT Industries Decoy CORE 4 29, on the other hand, provides a more aggressive and direct braking feel.
Overall, between these two bikes, I would prefer the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR due to its lighter and more agile nature, as well as its higher-level components.
Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR vs Kellys THEOS F100 SH 29″/27.5″ 825Wh
They have a similar amount of suspension travel. As for the choice of motors, both bikes use the excellent and reliable FAZUA RIDE 60 and SHIMANO EP8 motors, providing smooth and efficient power output.
In terms of components, they both feature the top-tier Shimano XTR M9100 drivetrain, offering high drivetrain efficiency and a smooth and lightweight shifting experience. Additionally, they use the same Shimano XTR M9120 brakes, which are reliable and top-of-the-line braking systems.
However, in terms of geometry, the former has a more relaxed design, providing greater stability and faster performance. Therefore, considering the similar component choices, I would favor the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR.
Summary
Above is our review of the Pivot Shuttle SL Team XTR. In our opinion, it is an all-around top-tier full-suspension endurance electric bike. That’s why we gave it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other full-suspension endurance electric bikes, we also review a wide range of bikes at various price points, all of which are equally fascinating. Feel free to check out our other reviews as well.
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