Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE A PRO Review
- Price: $5,599
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 27.5″ Aluminum
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: The carbon fiber frame has a lightweight design, achieving incredible all-mountain strength and stiffness.
What we didn’t like about it: The design lacks a built-in chain guide, requiring an aftermarket addition.
Rating: (4.9/5)
The Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE features a long and low geometry. Coupled with the front 29-inch and rear 27.5-inch wheelset, it offers exceptional maneuverability and control.
Next, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE.
In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it to several other top bike models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
The Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE has a lightweight frame and high-quality components, delivering powerful riding capabilities suitable for tackling rough terrains.
To test it out, I took the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE to Deer Valley Resort mountain bike park and booked a hotel in advance through IHG. The park offers various biking trails, so I chose a moderately challenging one. The trail featured natural drop-offs, winding descents, and steep rocky sections.
Climbing
During uphill climbs, the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE’s excellent geometry and steep seat tube angle provided direct power transfer, allowing me to maintain a stable center of gravity with even weight distribution. This made uphill riding more effortless.
On steeper sections, the SRAM X01 Eagle DUB 32t crankset combined with the SRAM XG-1275 10-52t freewheel, offering a 1×12 speed range, proved beneficial.
Utilizing the largest freewheel gears, pedaling became instantly light. Coupled with the well-tuned suspension design, I had the confidence to conquer even the steepest slopes.
Furthermore, the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE’s equipped Maxxis Dissector 29″ x 2.4″ WT MAXXTERRA tires provided excellent traction. This configuration ensured the bike hugged the ground, making my climbing efforts more efficient while avoiding slippage.
In conclusion, I found the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE to be highly efficient in climbing. It excellently supported my uphill riding, giving me the confidence to conquer more challenging ascents.
Descending
The Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE’s performance remained formidable during descents. Firstly, the Fox Performance 34 front fork and Fox Performance 34 rear shock offered excellent support.
They absorbed more impact and vibrations when landing jumps, without bottoming out. The stable and balanced landing posture provided enhanced safety and allowed me to handle more impacts.
Additionally, the relaxed geometry, longer frame, and 29-inch wheel diameter offered remarkable stability as I descended on rocky trails. The larger wheel diameter effortlessly rolled over small bumps and minimized excessive vibrations.
Lastly, when approaching winding singletrack sections that required reducing speed, the powerful SRAM Guide RE brakes, paired with the front and rear SRAM Centerline 6-bolt – 180mm brake rotors, efficiently slowed down my speed. They provided strong and responsive braking, allowing me to maintain faster shuttle speeds on narrow trails.
Specifications
The Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE is available in five sizes (XS-XL) with internal cable routing and a carbon fiber frame. It caters to riders with heights ranging from 4’11” to 6’2″ and above, offering broad versatility. The internal cable routing provides a cleaner look and facilitates easier maintenance.
The frame features two mounting points: one on the downtube for water bottle installation and one on the top tube for carrying riding tools. In other words, it is suitable for longer rides.
Additionally, the dropper post design allows riders to adjust their riding position and center of gravity between climbing and descending, further enhancing riding efficiency.
Finally, the protective stickers on the downtube reduce damage from flying stones during rides, while the chainstay protector minimizes chain slap noise.
Video
Other Versions
The Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE has a lightweight carbon fiber frame with excellent geometry. However, this bike also has a higher-end version that utilizes top-of-the-line components to unleash the frame’s full potential.
We offer a full-suspension mountain bike with the same carbon fiber frame but upgraded with top-tier components, delivering even greater performance and a more powerful riding experience.
Pivot Trail 429 Team XX1 AXS
The Pivot Trail 429 Team XX1 AXS features an internally routed carbon fiber frame with a 29-inch wheelset, complemented by high-end components.
For suspension, it includes the Fox Factory Live 34 front fork and Fox Factory Live Valve rear shock, providing excellent support. The Kashima coating ensures smooth and responsive performance for these suspension components.
In terms of drivetrain, it boasts the SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS top-tier electronic mountain bike drivetrain. It not only reduces weight but also offers precise and effortless shifting. The electronic shifting setup is also simple and easy to adjust.
Lastly, the bike is equipped with the SRAM G2 Ultimate top-tier brakes, which deliver powerful and efficient stopping power. They offer a firm and responsive feel with quick response times, enabling instant speed reduction.
Next, we will provide detailed specifications of the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE and other full-suspension mountain bikes from similar price ranges for your reference.
What do we like about it?
- Hydraulic disc brakes with reliable performance in various conditions.
- Internal cable routing for a cleaner appearance and easier maintenance.
- Wide geometry angles combined with a 29-inch wheelset for enhanced stability and improved traction.
- The SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain with reliable and efficient shifting performance.
- Dropper post design for optimal positioning during climbing and descending.
- Long and low geometry with steep seat tube angle for versatile performance.
What don’t we like about it?
- The design lacks a built-in chain guide, requiring aftermarket installation.
FAQ
- What wheelset does this bike use?
The front wheelset is DT Swiss M1900 w, 15×110 F. The rear wheelset is DT Swiss 370 hub, 12×157 R.
- Can a chain guide be installed on this bike?
It features an ISCG05 interface, allowing for the installation of a chain guide.
- How do I choose the right size?
We provide a sizing chart for your reference. However, it’s not necessary to strictly adhere to this standard. The best method to find the right size is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 4’11” – 5’4″ | XS |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | S |
| 5’8″ – 5’11” | M |
| 5’10” – 6’2″ | L |
| 6’2″ + | XL |
Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE Specs
Build
| Frame | Trail 429Colors: Willow Green; Pacific Blue; Silver Metallic |
| Fork | Fox Performance 34 29″, GRIP – 130mm |
| Rear Shock | Fox Factory DPS |
| Headset | Pivot Precision Sealed Cartridge |
| Stem | Phoenix Team Enduro/Trail |
| Handlebar | Phoenix Race Low Rise Aluminum – 780mm |
| Saddle | WTB Volt (Medium Width) |
| Seatpost | Fox Transfer Performance Elite 100mm (XS), 150mm (SM), 175mm (MD), 200mm (LG-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 | KMC X12 12-Speed |
| Brakes | SRAM Guide RE 4-piston |
Wheels
| Rims | DT Swiss M1900 w/ DT Swiss 370 hub, 30mm – 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 | SRAM Centerline 6-bolt – 180mm<br />SRAM Centerline 6-bolt – 180mm |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Travel | Frame Material | Brake Type | Drivetrain |
| Canyon Neuron CF 9 SL | Click View | 140mm front | Carbon | SRAM Code RSC | 1 × 12 Electronic |
| Kona Hei Hei CR | Click View | 120mm rear, 120mm front | Carbon | Shimano SLX | 1 × 12 |
| Ibis Ripley V4S GX | Click View | 120mm rear, 130mm front | Carbon | SRAM G2 | 1 × 12 |
| Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE 2 | Click View | 120mm rear, 120mm front | Carbon | Shimano MT501 | 1 × 12 |
Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE vs Canyon Neuron CF 9 SL
These two bikes are both excellent full-suspension mountain bikes. They boast impressive suspension designs that provide strong support for climbing.
In terms of drivetrain components, the former is equipped with the SRAM X01 drivetrain, which is a slightly higher level than the SRAM GX Eagle AXS used in the latter. It offers superior transmission efficiency, lighter weight, and powerful rear derailleur tension. However, the latter’s electronic version of the drivetrain makes it easier and more convenient to adjust.
For braking components, both bikes feature powerful SRAM brakes. The braking sensation is immediate and direct, with reliable performance even in challenging conditions.
In conclusion, between these two full-suspension trail bikes, I would highly recommend the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE. Its geometry enhances its downhill riding capabilities, making it more powerful in descents.
Learn More: Is Canyon Strive CFR Worth Buying? [2022 Canyon Strive CFR Review]
Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE vs Kona Hei Hei CR
When comparing these two bikes, I would highly recommend the former. It has more powerful components, enhancing its riding capabilities.
Firstly, although they both use the Fox Performance 34 front fork, the former has a longer suspension travel, making it more suitable for tackling intense and complex riding terrains.
In terms of drivetrain components, the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE is equipped with the SRAM X01, which is of a higher level compared to the mixed components of Shimano XT and Shimano SLX found on the Kona Hei Hei CR. Consequently, its performance is more robust.
Therefore, between these two bikes, the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE exhibits stronger performance, capable of handling more complex and demanding riding conditions.
Learn More: Is Kona Hei Hei CR Worth Buying? – [Kona Hei Hei CR Review]
Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE vs Ibis Ripley V4S GX
They have similar suspension fork travel, but the latter benefits from the Kashima-coated Fox Factory Series fork, resulting in smoother suspension performance.
In terms of drivetrain components, the former is equipped with the SRAM X01 drivetrain, which is of a higher level compared to the mixed SRAM GX and SRAM NX components found on the latter. It is also lighter and offers more efficient power transmission.
Regarding the braking components, both bikes are equipped with reliable SRAM brake systems that provide responsive braking and strong stopping power.
In conclusion, when it comes to suspension capability, the Ibis Ripley V4S GX performs better. However, in terms of drivetrain efficiency, the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE is more powerful. The choice depends on your specific priorities and needs.
Learn More: Is Ibis Ripley GX Worth Buying? [Ibis Ripley GX Review]
Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE vs Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE 2
They are both powerful full-suspension mountain bikes for climbing. However, the former has a longer suspension travel, providing stronger downhill performance and the ability to handle more complex and intense descents.
In terms of drivetrain components, the former is equipped with the SRAM X01 drivetrain, which offers more robust performance compared to the mixed Shimano M6100 and Shimano XT M8100 components on the latter. The shifting operation is precise and responsive.
As for the braking components, the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE features the SRAM Guide RE brakes, providing more aggressive stopping power.
The Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE 2, on the other hand, is equipped with the Shimano MT501 brakes, which offer a lighter braking sensation. However, the SRAM Guide RE brakes offer greater overall braking power.
Overall, the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE outperforms the Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE 2 in various aspects. Therefore, it is a more worthy choice.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Scalpel HT Carbon 3 A Good Bike? [2022 Cannondale Scalpel HT Carbon 3 Review]
Summary
Above is my review of the Pivot Trail 429 RIDE LIKE. In our opinion, it is a lightweight and reliable full-suspension mountain bike that delivers powerful climbing and descending experiences. This is why we gave it a rating of 4.9.
Of course, if you’re interested in other full-suspension mountain bikes, we also evaluate a variety of bikes at different price points, which can be equally intriguing. Feel free to check out our other reviews.
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