2023 Pivot Mach 4 SL Test Ride & Review

[@mtbyumyum]

I originally filmed this with my buddy Tyler but the footage was garbage due to wind noise... this footage isn't much better because of the excessive wind... in any case, the last 10 minutes of this video is POV riding footage and well worth watching till the end. Enjoy and thanks for watching!

[@thomasoneilmtb]

Buddy.. you don’t ever make garbage. Another fantastic vid

[@pivotcyclesusa]

Glad you were able to get a ride on this bike and stoked that you enjoyed it.

[@31acruz]

Love how Jason "immediately" notices it has to be compared to the 429 to see where exactly these land! and that, ..that comparison 'has to be made'. This is why this is my #1 channel for bike reviews.. bar none.

[@voyant26]

I ride a 429 Enduro build and am anxious to hear the review comparing as well.

[@monkeypawism]

Your enthusiasm is infectious on this one. Sham-wow! levels of excite. We are going to need another review (lonterm) once you get your build. Can't wait!

[@mtbyumyum]

haha thanks... but I assure you this is no infomercial lol

[@jasonw3287]

Best two lines of all time. “I’m pretty excited about this bike. I’m very excited about this bike.”

[@mtbyumyum]

Haha🤘

[@Jeff-yy5fe]

Excellent review!!! Love to see someone who rides as much as you and as many different bikes is at a loss for words for a new bike. Nice to see unabashed enthusiasm for this bike. One my short list for sure! Love the channel!

[@mtbyumyum]

Thank you! Yup, really loving the M4. Just got mine over the weekend.. can't wait to put some miles on this thing!

[@brianmcinnis3886]

It’s funny, I built my new Mach 4 SL this morning, and also changed the bar and stem to the same ENVE cockpit. Thanks for the review. I value what you do! Keep up the good work!❤

[@mtbyumyum]

Nice. Congrats!

[@pauls3616]

Great video Yum Yum. It looked like your were flying down the trail in the POV section of the video. The 24 lbs doesn’t hurt the way it pops. Thanks for the video.

[@mtbyumyum]

It's so fun to ride light weight bikes.

[@seandooley4881]

I have had the Epic Evo 7 since 2021 and I can tell it flexes when I corner hard. I am on a XL at 200lbs. I previously owned a 2010 Mach 429 aluminum and it never had that wiggly feeling. I think it is time to move back to pivot. I ride in Houston on mostly flat fast single track except for hill country visits.

[@billymartyn5573]

Awesome you’re stoked about the bike! I’ll have to add it to my short list.

[@mtbyumyum]

You'll be glad you did!

[@jr7945]

Did you ever do, or plan to do, a comparison between the Mach 4 SL and the Trail 429?

[@mtbyumyum]

Interesting. If that's something people are interested in? I could do that!

[@devlish668]

I’d love to see that comparison!

[@madgtrgrhtrgrtgtyhrg]

I don't think I've seen Jason be so effusive about a bike before. Sounds like Pivot put together something special.

[@mtbyumyum]

100%

[@IBRAKEFORBEDROCK]

I`m waiting to see if they come out with new colors for the Switchblade

[@323johnnybravo]

I can tell by how stoked you are that this bike absolutely rips. I definitely want to demo one of these!!!

[@mtbyumyum]

It's a ripper for sure but I think I was just as blown away with how different the bike felt after changing the flip chip. Crazy!!

[@bikebudha01]

Yeah, he was so excited about the Rocky Mountain Element (last year) he bought one of those as well. He didn't even own it for a year. I imagine he'll get one of these bikes, then magically, next year he'll 'find' another 'must have' ride...

[@323johnnybravo]

@@bikebudha01 if I could I’d get a new bike every year too.

[@bikebudha01]

@@323johnnybravo Sure, but I wouldn't mislead people by saying (every year) that this bike is THE bike.

[@uditnaik5852]

I wonder what the deal is for Pivot to go back to boost spacing. Hopefully it’s for good. Also, I wonder how different this is going to feel in comparison to my Mach 429 Trail which has 116mm rear suspension.

[@2WheelKam]

Great video as always. Really enjoy your videos! You can tell this one is exciting. I always love that its super obvious how much you love to ride!

[@mtbyumyum]

Haha thanks!

[@sgtkurry]

Now I have to get one. I have an exie but there are a few things I wanted that this seems to improve or fix.

[@tictocbang7443]

LOVE the Rush trail! It’s a lot quicker when you ride it. 😂 I had the previous Mach 4 SL. This one could be the next. Thanks!!

[@mtbyumyum]

haha lower Rush just films so well because it's smooth and crazy high speed!! Thanks!

[@mprox3431]

Now I don't know which bike I want. Every new video it's wow that would be a great bike for the riding I like to do. Great job on the video!

[@mtbyumyum]

I just hope my videos are giving the viewer an understanding that the question of "what bike is best or better" is far less relevant than "how can I best match my bike purchase to my riding style, terrain and speed"

[@jimrutherford2773]

I purchased a Pivot LES from Salt Cyclery because the alternative was thete to put Shimano components on it. A great bike from a great bike shop.

[@Cycle_Smith]

I’ve been unable to make up my mind on what model of 429 I wanted… now this… great video!

[@mtbyumyum]

I’m really excited to ride this back to back in the 115mm setting with the T429

[@venronux]

Mach 4 SL (115mm) vs Trail 429 (standard build) is exactly the comparison I'm after! Given this new 115/120mm Mach 4, is there still a place in Pivots line up for the non-Enduro 429?

[@mtbyumyum]

@@venronux That's a very good point.. I'll let you know once I ride the bikes back to back!

[@roryveronda9933]

I was hoping you were going to review this bike and did not disappoint 👊🏼

[@mtbyumyum]

Thanks!!

[@truthbike]

You got some work to do - Mach4 vs 429 AND 27.5 Revival shadowcat vs yeti 120! Great review! This was not on my radar but is now. Like you said “I wasn’t ordering this bike yesterday but I am today!”

[@mtbyumyum]

Yeah, this is a bike that I think would go easily unnoticed by a lot of people... I really hope this video shines a light on these lighter weight and shorter travel trail bikes. I see so many people over biked on the trail I ride every day... I really just don't think people realized they could be having a lot more fun on a bike like this... This M4 SL at 15 mph is so much more fun than my Yeti SB140 at 15 mph on these trails... and it climbs better and weighs a lot less!

[@scottkouns8578]

Another fantastic video!! Looking forward to trying this one out 2 for 1. Sweet!

[@mtbyumyum]

👍👍

[@billw_mtb3220]

Wow, that looks like a winner. I even like the color!

[@mtbyumyum]

It’s pretty fantastic!!

[@ckwong23]

@@mtbyumyum What color did your order?

[@vashusan1984]

Nice to see you have to pedal on that top section too. Makes me feel a bit better, lol. I've got a Commencal Enduro hardtail and a Switchblade, fantastic recommendation BTW. I would love a short travel bike like this and love my Pivot, need more space and money....indeed bikes are expensive, but especially high end bikes like Pivot, Yeti etc.

[@duffyrides]

Nice ! Bike sounds like it checks all the boxes.

[@EndoMTB]

Ok I’m not gonna lie. I didn’t come to watch the review of this bike. I came to check the trail conditions given the crazy winter and land slides in the area. Can’t wait to come up and hit those trails this summer. Thanks Jason!

[@jimrutherford2773]

I'm not sure I like the twist shift for the suspension adjustments. Couldn't one easily inadvertently lock out when you keast wanted to lock out, or vise versa?

[@mtbyumyum]

I've ridden the bike 4 times now and 100% I cant see this happening.... it would need to be intentionally shifted to lock or unlock...

[@TheWrigle]

Just ordered myself a new Mach4sl. Hard to find any demos anywhere, so just gonna pull the trigger based on online feedback, and pedaling one around the shop parking lot. Came down the the Exie or this Mach 4sl. Hoping I made the right call. This will be my first xc bike coming from a more all mountain bike background. Seems like the mach4 should fit the bill.

[@mtbyumyum]

Nice, congrats!

[@rickcossey6211]

Would love to hear your feedback on the bike. There isn't any demos or in stock bikes in my area so trying to decide rather to make a long drive to try one or just pull the trigger and order one.

[@mikeedwards7730]

Appreciate all your hard work and content coming out Jason. This was another great video. Pivots really doing something great with their carbon lay up/ model revisions and this is a good example. Seems like all their new frames are getting put on a diet. I’m on the v2 switchblade and love it but I’m watching closely what they come out with. My prediction is they put the v3 switchblade on a similar diet and integrate this new linkage flip chip into it. This Mach 4sl has me very interested but still waiting to see what they do with the next blade

[@mtbyumyum]

Yeah, wouldn’t it be amazing if the next switchblade was the true quiver killer! It already climbs so well if they can do what you’re saying and “put it on a diet” I think that could be a pretty special bike!

[@bikeste]

Good stuff, as usual. Let the comparisons begin! (exie vs short travel mach 4, and Ripley vs long travel mach 4 are my requests). Also, what do you think of Sram transmission? Sure enjoy your videos!

[@mtbyumyum]

To be 100% I never really got why everyone liked Sram wireless axs... the shift paddles had poor ergonomics, they're overly touchy/sensitive resulting in unintended shifts it wasn't feeling a role in my life or solving any problems I had. In fact, I've seen more problems from it... any time I've been on the trail with a rider who had shifting problems they never actually new how to "trim" the spacing... I bet they wish they had a barrel adjuster on their shifter at that point lol. I've also been with riders who had forgot to charge their battery.... that's a lot of fun too haha. All this said, the new Transmission actually shifts up (UP) the cassette the way everyone had said axs did when it came out like 4 years ago or whatever... it's almost unrecognizable. Very good! The down the cassette shift is still delayed and meh... but the paddle shift is now worth riding and talking about imho. The Transmission shifts up the cassette incredibly well and it's worth praising. I also purposely shifted poorly under load, in the middle of heavy pedals and was pleasantly surprised at how well this drivetrain shifts so...... I will be ordering it on my next bike... coming next week!!!! So pumped for this next bike! Oh, and the Mach 4 between the Ripley and Exie is actually not far off now that you say it... good point!

[@kevincalvey9281]

I've been a Ripley convert for a couple years now since watching your videos. You are right on with the Ripley being so so good for most anything XC trail and it's so hard to beat! BUT, I just got the Pivot Mach 4 SL XX SL build.... winner winner chicken dinner. No contest this bike is for SURE the best bike I've ever ridden. Fast as my EXIE (maybe faster) and as smooth at absorbing chatter and trail features as the Ripley. Climbs better than both. Your are absolutely right the Mach 4 SL has to be the GOAT at this point. Absolutely ridiculous bike. Exie and Ripley have been replaced!

[@marklundin26]

@kevincalvey9281 you still loving the bike, feel the same versus a ripley?

[@johnjeffries2148]

The best thing about this video is that your daughter is riding with you.

[@joelrunyan1608]

I ride a 2019 turner czar that's almost exactly like the mach 4. Same dimensions dw link. I 100% agree. That bike is a frickin blast to ride and its a rocket.

[@mtbyumyum]

Dude, you have a Turner!!! Such a rad brand. My buddy just replaced his czar and misses it.

[@joelrunyan1608]

@@mtbyumyum if you ride an xl. U can still get one. They're on clearance too

[@joelrunyan1608]

@MTB yumyum I think u can get an rfx in mediums n small still. Competitive cyclists maybe?

[@joelrunyan1608]

@@mtbyumyum I'm gonna ride mine until I break it

[@bike_somm]

Soooo sick man! I can feel your stoke & I’m super excited to try one here in Cali once we get them in my shop @ Solstice Bike Works in Marin 🏁🚴🏼‍♂️💨🤘🏼

[@AOL0321]

Jason, As always, I love these reviews. Will you be testing the Santa Cruz Blur, Cannondale Scalpel, and the Specialized Epic at all?

[@mtbyumyum]

Probably wont have time to do those test rides... sorry although I would really like to try the blur

[@emanuelecamozzi2336]

Downcountry how would you rate this bike to the Rocky Mountain Element?Which one would you go for ?

[@mtbyumyum]

I'm not sure I understand the question? This M4 is very different from the Element.... Both excellent bikes for different reasons...

[@emanuelecamozzi2336]

@@mtbyumyum the question is relative to the fact that I am looking for a down country bike efficient pedaling up and not too difficult to ride going down, I tried the Santa Cruz Blur and recently the Rocky Element, I thought, given the wheelbase, that the Element was more of a trail bike but I found the pedaling efficiency with the flip chip in the close position (steep head tube angle) being absolutely impressive and on the way down the bike is awesome, how would you rate the 4 Sl compared to that if you were to choose an efficient pedaling bike with a bias for being fun going down?Do you think the Mach 4 is very far for performance on the way down compared to the Rocky or it can be comparable?

[@mtbyumyum]

I wouldn't say one is "more fun down hill" than the other... it just depends on your speed, terrain and riding style...

[@yowzerbaby]

@@mtbyumyum you had a 140 mm pike on your element. With a 120 or 130 mm on the element wouldn't these be similar weight class? Which bike gets better traction. I know the element will be better down hill than the mach4SL but how do the suspensions compare for climbing and traction?

[@mtbyumyum]

There is too much here to discuss... maybe we do a livestream soon and pick up where we left off. The difficulty in the original question is the word "better" and "more fun" these are not appropriate ways to look at bike in my experience. In my experience, my Ibis Exie goes down hill "better" than my Pivot SB140 and is "more fun" than my SB140... a lot of people might be scratching their head after reading this.... well, there isn't enough information here. I'm talking about a blue trail called Rush that I ride 4-5 times a week in the morning before work. I've ridden it maybe 8-9 times this week. The Exie is not only more fun than the SB140 on Rush Trail but it gets to the top of the trail faster and with less fatigue on my body... it's also faster down Rush than the SB140 and feel a lot more fun!! Now if I go ride a trail called Crest Trail, the SB140 will be a lot "better" and "more fun"... Back to the original question, I have no clue what anyone in the bike world means by Downcountry.... this means nothing to me so I have no clue how to "rate" these two bikes and have no clue what bike I would go for. I would love the terms "downcountry bike" and "enduro bike" to go away... they just don't make sense.

[@raulmartinez5511]

Great video as usual. I ended up buying a Evil Following last year cause of your review, now I'm looking at this video, guess what's probably gonna end up happening 🙃 Cheers from Barcelona.

[@mtbyumyum]

😆🤘

[@גלךעגיעכגעכג]

Great review! THANKS! I have always thought that the Mach 4 is not my type of bike because of its short travel and XC/race orientation., so I considered the Trail 429 as the shortest travel FS on Pivot's lineup that I would like to ride. But that changed after watching this video., I'd be happy to demo the M4. Looks like you really had tons of fun with the M4 on this trail - BTW which trail is it?

[@mtbyumyum]

I'm so glad to hear this!! The Mach 4 SL should be on everyone's list of bikes to check out... it's really very good!

[@rd_rae]

First your excitement for the Yeti, now for the Pivot. You‘re giving Ibis a hard time now 😅, as great as they are oc.

[@mtbyumyum]

Yeah, I know... The sb140 is a special bike and I think anyone who rides it will see what I'm talking about... and this M4 is just bananas... seriously so blown away by this bike! Of course I really like these short travel highly energetic bikes!!

[@kevinbetters]

I would love to hear your thoughts on the Niner RKT 9. Seems like another great XC bike, and a good comparison with the Mach 4SL.

[@justinjohansen5992]

Hey Jason, when you put the flip chip in the high setting, did you fell like you were perched up higher on the bike? Did you feel tippy at slower speeds?

[@mtbyumyum]

Not at all. It’s very balanced and sure footed in either setting.

[@ayjay05]

It’s not a high or low setting. It lengthens a lever length on the rocker and thus increases the ratio of shock travel to rear wheel travel in the short travel setting

[@AOL0321]

Great review!

[@mtbyumyum]

thx!

[@davehoover8853]

What model ENVE bar and stem are you running on all your bikes? Nice review - this is a bike I would like!

[@mtbyumyum]

ENVE M6 Bar: bit.ly/3Cq4Lwc

[@jeffsharp4982]

Man Jason, after that review, if I was Pivot right now I'd be contacting you about a sending you a free Mach 4SL.

[@mtbyumyum]

haha that would be nice! The bike blew me away...

[@ilionatroya7129]

Cool! I just saw one in my local shop here in Jackson. I’m actually on the journey of putting my mach 6 on a diet and looking to build carbon wheels. Can you please tell me more about your yumyum wheels with berd spokes? Thanks!

[@mtbyumyum]

yumyum wheels are incredible but not made to smash stuff... they're super light weight and feel amazing. I'm sure they could build you a more durable set but mine are on the extreme light weight side. Call Chris and see what he can do for you... 801-943-8502

[@JT-MTB]

How's it compare to the trail 429 and the revel ranger?

[@bikebudha01]

And the Rocky Element C50...

[@mtbyumyum]

Really excited to ride it back to back with the T429

[@rayhoward194]

@@mtbyumyum Hopefully you flip the chip of the 429 when you do the comparison. It has a noticeable effect, more forward biased and better position climbing. Doesn't seem to hurt descending, but I notice the lower bar, so I have to adjust my spacers and raise them.

[@samd6405]

Ok…I know you referred to the Ibis EXIE a few times during the video, but I would love to hear a deep dive comparing the two. I’m a huge Yeti-fan, and this new Pivot is the bike that Yeti has/will never build. I watched your previous video comparing the SB100 to the old Mach 4….

[@mtbyumyum]

Yeti has a bike just like the M4.... SB115. Chris has a bunch that he bought from Yeti when they came out with the SB120... he knew how special the 115 was and bought all Yeti's left over inventory. Call them today and get one! 801-943-8502

[@samd6405]

@@mtbyumyum I feel like the Yeti SB115 is much more of a tank....(I'd have to compare frame weights, but full XTR build, carbon Enve wheels...still ~26lbs+). I can't see how to get close to a 23-24lb of the new Pivot or Ibis EXIE. Yeti went heavy handed with the carbon layup to make it 'indestructible'...not necessarily a bad thing, just adds weight.

[@samd6405]

@@mtbyumyum oh...and thanks for the latest video comparing the two bikes...that was timely!

[@half_a_kman977]

Love all your videos! Can you please test out the latest Santa Cruz Tallboy??

[@mtbyumyum]

Thank you. Yes! Santa Cruz bikes are always on my radar... just slightly more difficult to demo...

[@leonshanahan2189]

Thankyou for your great reviews, it sounds like the Pivot knocks it out of the park. Can you compare this bike and the Santa Cruz TB3 briefly for suspension, geo and handling please. How much have XC/trail bikes improved?

[@michaelingallina801]

What exactly is the Yum Yum wheel build? I know it’s with Bird spokes but what exactly are the wheels?

[@mtbyumyum]

You will have to call Chris at Salt Cycles on Tuesday and talk with him about them… 801-943-8502 I have absolutely loved mine… 5 seasons now on mine and more then 2,500 miles without an issue!!

[@noahmeineke1415]

thanks for the video. was torn between the 429 and this, momentarily. no longer. def 429.

[@boodles07]

I’m feeling the opposite. I’m feeling the Mach 4 SL

[@wgnwheels333]

Haha you sell some bikes to decluter then by more looks like a wicked bike can't wait for comparison

[@truthbike]

I would love to know how you spec'ed this bike: brakes (did you go 4 piston?), wheels, components, etc. Weight also. I'm ready to pull the trigger but trying to sort out frame with custom build vs XTR build with Beard wheels

[@mtbyumyum]

I’ve got a video coming soon… berd spokes, xtr…

[@ckwong23]

So you have time on the Exie ... can you share comparisons?

[@mtbyumyum]

Yeah. I put more than 1,000 miles on one last season!

[@ckwong23]

@@mtbyumyum I’m considering both so would be interested to hear your opinions .

[@mtbyumyum]

I'm planning on uploading a comparison video soon...

[@marksandoval5361]

I've been waiting for the 100/120mm travel XC bike with Trailbike geometry; 76-77* STA and 66-65* HTA. This bike comes so close. Maybe I'll buy one and put a Slack-R adjustable headset on it.

[@jimrutherford2773]

It looks like a great competitive bike. Yum yum said it's over 24 lbs which wouldn't make it a XC race bike. Too heavy.

[@flow2tech]

@Mark Sandoval check out the Allied bc40 ...What a bike!

[@yowzerbaby]

The Rocky Mountain element may be better for what you are looking for… XC uphill and trail bike down hill

[@cayennepeppa707]

ok. then how about the Mach SL @ 115mm travel vs the Trail 429 @ 120mm travel??? are the bikes close or are they too far apart in their construction/ application? Thanks, as always. Always a good time watching your videos. Funny. After I finished this comment the video reached the part where you say you need to compare the two. hahahaha! Great minds.

[@mtbyumyum]

haha yep, I'll get around to riding these bike on the same day... soon!

[@jonop5577]

Love your videos so please keep them coming!! I’m coming from an old alloy jet 9 100/80mm and 71deg head angle and torn between 4 bikes that I can’t decide between, Ripley/Exie or T429 and now M4SL. Most of the trails in Indiana are flat that and an XC bike is fine for, I dont race just fun weekend warrior stuff but also planning on heading back to Colorado again this year that the old Niner survived previously. If you were to go to one bike for mostly XC trails but can handle an all day ride in Colorado or Arizona what would you recommend? Unfortunately I’m not able to test ride these. Thanks again!!!

[@mtbyumyum]

Being unfamiliar with the trail you plan to ride I hesitate to point you in any one direction. That said, the bike you purchase should really come down to what bike is best for the speed you ride, riding style and terrain. Terrain is less important than speed and style. Good luck and please consider calling Chris at Salt Cycles... they are incredible to work with and have special pricing for yumyum subscribers! 801-943-8502 ask for Chris! Good luck!

[@SeanKWhite-lk5zf]

I remember you really enjoying the Spur. How does this compare?

[@mtbyumyum]

Completely different bikes...

[@michaeldevries2482]

which color are you going to order? Great vid!

[@mtbyumyum]

Can’t decide. I like them both.

[@davehoover8853]

When does a new 429 come out? That will be great to compare to this new Mach!

[@UTemHorns]

Was waiting for this review before I decided to buy one. Ripley/EXIE owner as well.

[@mtbyumyum]

I've got a bunch more time on the bike now and will publish an Exie / M4 video next Tuesday!!

[@UTemHorns]

@@mtbyumyum I love the fact your vid/reviews are like talking w/a buddy at the trailhead about bikes.

[@mtbyumyum]

Thanks dude!

[@jamespaul6798]

So I`m super interested in a time trial between the sl and the Exie? been thinking about picking up an Exie but I do enjoy an occasional race. I currently ride a epic evo..looking for something faster.

[@mtbyumyum]

Performing a time trial between two or more bikes will almost always result in inaccurate information... the rider would have to hold the exact same watts for the period of the trial, wind, trail conditions and rider fatigue are all factors that are difficult to control. I've seen other mtb publications attempt this... I think it's PinkBike or Vital, in any case, it's inaccurate and potentially misleading information in my opinion and very difficult to get right. The reality is, most viewers of my channel and similar channels are not competition level athletes. I'm sure many of them race bikes... but not at a level that would require splitting hairs over what bike to get for the purpose of out right speed... think about it. In world cup xc racing top athletes go with the bike brand that pays them the right amount of money or has a contract that makes sense for them... if there was a bike that was so far ahead of everything else all the racers would be on it... maybe. Anyway, I've been riding the Exie and M4 sl back to back for about a week now. 2 rides on the Exie including this morning... and 6 rides on the M4. In my experience, we're splitting hairs here. I think the Exie is maybe a little more responsive and you could also read "faster" maybe! I would be happy with either one of these bike and I'm a bit more excited about the M4 because it's new, has a really neat adjustable flip chip for the shock and feels a bit softer and maybe more versatile... maybe. That said, I have over 1,000 miles on the Exie. Feel more comfortable and familiar with that bike. I jump it better... just realized that this morning that I just feel more at home on the bike... again, because I've spent significantly more time on it. I'm confident the M4 will come around for me and feel right at home in no time. Still looking for a bit more traction up front on the M4 as well... the Exie is an excellent choice and if I hadn't spent so much time on it over the past 16 months I would have a very difficult time deciding what bike to go with.

[@jeromemoreau2041]

Great review Jason! What kind of Enve bars did you put on the Mach 429?

[@mtbyumyum]

M6

[@TylerSmith-zy6go]

Can't wait for you to do a live chat about this bike. How much better is it than the ripley?

[@mtbyumyum]

Not sure about the live chat... it take a lot out of me... I might start offering "memberships" here on KZbin for people who want to get into a live chat... it's highly demanding for me to do. Good question, it would be fun to ride this back to back with the Ripley...

[@Sassa0805]

How capable is the mach 4sl on rocky downhill like so cal? I love the idea of this bike, but maybe a shadowcat is better suited?

[@mtbyumyum]

Without seeing your trails, it's hard to say. In the 115mm shock setting I would say it's not far off from how I used to feel on my Ibis Ripley... would be fun to ride those bikes back to back actually. In any case, the Shadowcat wont feel nearly as snappy, poppy and energetic as this Mach 4

[@Sassa0805]

@@mtbyumyum thanks, I appreciate your input. 👍

[@jfritzinger]

I ride a 2022 mach4sl in tahoe reno. It handles all the rough stuff fine. I dont ever think about how much travel i have.

[@juanhidalgo7043]

As always nice video! For me I a, waiting for the Pinarello Dogma XC! Summer 2024. After 10 years waiting for a hand made Italian bike no way I am passing it now! Once you ride a pinarello you are not going back to pivot, ibis, etc!

[@quintonomous11]

I'm still painfully torn between Mach 4 SL vs Trail 429 as my first (and likely only) full suss bike. I have a Salsa Timberjack hardtail I love for fun trail riding/bikepacking and seems overlapping with a XC use case so leaning Trail 429. Really appreciate this video and all your points. Great review! Would love your opinion on which bike is better to get if you could only have one.

[@boodles07]

I am in the same boat. I am so torn on which bike to get. Trail 429 or Mach SL. Please help!!

[@brandoningersoll5034]

I was almost about to buy a T429 after a 4day Sedona demo. Long time Ripley rider…and I thought if the T429 was just a little bit snappier & lighter (like my Ripley) b-c I loved how capable it was. Is this more capable than the Ripley on the downs? If so this is my bike..

[@mtbyumyum]

I wouldn't say it's more capable than the ripley... but it feels like a more energetic T429... like if the T429 and the Ripley had a baby it would be this bike on the 115mm setting. Getting into the travel feels a bit softer than the Ripley tho...

[@HLDefender]

Which brings more to the table as a solid trail purchase? Mach 4SL or the Trail 429 ??

[@mtbyumyum]

In my experience, the trail 429 is a more versatile trail bike, but man I would really miss having the speed and agility of the Mach 4SL

[@boodles07]

This is me. I’m stuck on a decision between this and the Trail 429. I’m a 60 year old rider. I’m not doing crazy tech yet tech happens.

[@samd6405]

What ENVE bars are you rocking? M6 / 25mm? Cut down?

[@mtbyumyum]

M6 cut to 745mm

[@picodegallo1959]

Hey Jason! Love your review about it. Curious if this bike can take a beating like the 429? I know that this bike was made for the xc circuits out there, but even xc circuits have been getting beefier. My best example of this would be the BC Bike Race. So I'm curious about that. Thanks, as always. Looking forward to the comparison with the T429!

[@рецептДем]

Better than epic8 evo on trails/climbs?

[@machine7767]

You should order it with 165mm cranks from 5 Dev.

[@ps3narciso]

hi jason! i need to change my current epic evo. what are your thoughts on this pivot m4sl, scott spark rc or the bmc fourstroke lt? i live in italy in a very hilly region with a lot of climbs and ups and downs.thanks and keep up with the good work 👌👏

[@mtbyumyum]

I haven’t ridden the other two bags, but I could highly recommend the Pivot Mach 4. I own one now and love it!

[@ps3narciso]

@@mtbyumyum i have to decide between a m4sl and the ripley.tough decision

[@adamcoppock5018]

Great video, love the bike but why the press fit bottom brackets Pivot….

[@mtbyumyum]

I've never had a single problems with press fit bb's and they're lighter weight

[@adamcoppock5018]

@@mtbyumyum I have on a few bikes. Enjoy the ride.

[@AOL0321]

Sorry, just checked your channel and saw you did tests on the Scalpel and Epic.

[@mtbyumyum]

haha nice! Yeah, the Scalpel SE is no joke! It's an insane short travel trail bike for the money!!

[@AOL0321]

@@mtbyumyum Have you ridden the Scalpel with that Lefty Ocho? I had 16 Cannondales growing up lol. My sister-in-law was the Art Director there for 24 years.

[@mtbyumyum]

wow, nope, not ridden the lefty

[@devlish668]

How does the SRAM Transmission compare to Shimano XTR shifting? Thanks

[@mtbyumyum]

This is hard for me to say because I really didn't get why everyone liked axs so much... it didn't do anything better than the standard X01 drivetrain only it gave you a weird hard to use shifter... needless to say it wasn't for me. I really love the PRESENCE of the cable shifting... love how smooth xt/xtr is to shift and I like the mechanics of it... the idea that I'm on a bike with crank arms pulling on a chain attached to a cog on a cassette... not to get to romantic here but I really like the idea that my thumb is putting tension on a cable that shift the gears as my legs and feet are pedaling this machine down the trail. All that said, the new Transmission is really very good! The up shift is almost instantaneous. The down shift is the same clung down the cog... like the xtr and similar lagging speed. But the up shift! Impressive!

[@devlish668]

@@mtbyumyum Thanks. The pre Tramsmission SRAM was rough shifting under power. The Shimano was known for being much smoother shifting under power. So what I’m really wondering is which would you say is smoother shifting under load between the Shimano and SRAM Transmission? Thanks.

[@mtbyumyum]

Been riding them back to back on my Exie with XTR and the M4 with transmission. I think the shimano might be a bit smoother still but they're so close it's nothing like the previous axs. I also tend to preload the cable, sort of taking up any tension just before the actual shift so as to have better timing and smoother shifts... been doing this for forever haha, old habits die hard lol

[@devlish668]

@@mtbyumyum Thanks Jason. That’s impressive that Shimano shifting was so ahead of SRAM and still might be!

[@bonnieclyde5318]

At certain times is seemed a little bit “rattly” over the chattery sections of trail- difficult to tell. How quiet would you say it is?

[@mtbyumyum]

When I swapped over my personal handlebar and stem the level brake housing is really close to the bar. That’s what you were hearing. It doesn’t make any noise with the stock factory pivot bars.👍

[@justinjohansen5992]

Hey Jason, have you tried the latest Trek Top Fuel in this category? I get conflicting reports on whether it’s surprisingly plush or surprisingly firm for what it is.

[@mtbyumyum]

Not yet but I've had several requests... I'd like to give it a try some time

[@davefarrell24]

It's down to the Exie vs. the Mach 4 SL for me. Maybe a head to head comparison?

[@mtbyumyum]

My Exie is for sale if you want a full XTR size medium?

[@davefarrell24]

@@mtbyumyum You just answered my question. Thanks Jason, as always.

[@davefarrell24]

@@mtbyumyum Thanks Jason. I'm a size large on the Exie. I'm also intrigued by the Mach 4 SL. I'm going to demo one soon. Keep up the good work. You rock!

[@therealdealz2453]

@@mtbyumyum price?

[@mtbyumyum]

send me a dm on instagram for pricing

[@jfritzinger]

Funny. I have been suspect of my pivot handle bar on my 2022 mach4sl. Seems stiff in the gnar.

[@oliverburke3743]

what shorts are those you are wearing dude?

[@mtbyumyum]

You're probably not going to believe this but they're woman's TLD Luxe shorts and I absolutely love them!! Stretchy waist band too! Here: bit.ly/4309ekb I'm 5'8" 145 lbs and wear the size small. I hate super baggy pants and these are very nice with a pocket for your phone that doesn't move around and just above your butt another pocket for tools, dart, air chuck and co2

[@davewallace9048]

Are they available as frame only? If not dealbreaker for me. I always build my own bikes up from frame only.

[@mtbyumyum]

Yeah, me to... that's why I order from Salt Cycles where they can help with your custom build!!

[@markdulin9840]

I test did some research and test rode a Pivot 429 because it has great reviews and solid science. I liked it but my calfs contacted the seat stays every stroke . Could you comment on width of seat stays on mach 4. A few mm narrower could help me. 24 lbs and your review make this bike very interesting. Thanks in advance for the help.

[@mtbyumyum]

I've had no issue with my leg contacting the seat stay on the Mach 4. The big absolutely rips! Call Chris at Salt Cycles and see what sort of deal he can get you on a custom build! 801-943-8502

[@samharris82]

"kill some time at work" Oh no - I feel seen!

[@mtbyumyum]

haha I won't tell anyone!!

[@devlish668]

Nice review, Jason. Can you tell us what are the stock Pivot and your Enve stem lengths and bar widths? I’m curious why you disliked the stock cockpit so much. Thanks

[@mtbyumyum]

50mm enve stem with enve m6 745mm bars

[@devlish668]

@@mtbyumyum Do you know the dimensions of the stock Pivot equipped stem and bar? Thanks.

[@maxgeronov6608]

You should do another review once you get your custom build.

[@mtbyumyum]

100% I just hope Pivot can get the bikes out the door asap so Salt Cycles can get one for me!!!

[@edlorenz1552]

Your daughter rips. That bike looks like it rides exactly like my Orange.

[@mtbyumyum]

Thank you. Yeah, she's getting a lot better!! Really proud of her!

[@1josefat]

Yay, no super boost!

[@mtbyumyum]

👌

[@jfritzinger]

120mm is the the 140mm. !!

[@mtbyumyum]

Maybe not but they’re incredibly and most people, like I think you’re saying, are in fact overbiked.

[@marksullivan685]

what is the bar & stem ?

[@mtbyumyum]

ENVE M6 Bar: bit.ly/3Cq4Lwc with an enve stem.

[@marksullivan685]

@@mtbyumyum Thank you !

[@johnnymcmanus3]

Waiting for Jason to test the mullet 5010

[@mtbyumyum]

me too haha just need to track one down!

[@johnnymcmanus3]

Welp watched your vid on the regular SJ and bought that instead. Same travel as the 5010, but lighter and way cheaper. Here they're blowing out xo1s for 4600. 5010 would of been 7200 and I'd have to wait. Thanks for your vids!

[@mtbyumyum]

I paid full price for my sj frame and had Salt Cycles build it up. It's a lot of fun and at a substantial discount, it's even better!! Enjoy!

[@petedog9581]

"Oh, My Word!!"

[@mtbyumyum]

😆😂

[@michaelpearce6982]

Is this bike. Xc race worthy?

[@mtbyumyum]

100%

[@laxplaysu91]

Most 120 front travel xc bikes have front lock outs. Not sure why pivot would not have one on the trail version

[@mtbyumyum]

Unless you're sprinting for podiums in legit races, I can't see a need to lock out the fork. Ever.

[@laxplaysu91]

@@mtbyumyum Avancini speaks on this in one of his training videos. Constantly using the lockouts. The Mach is a race bike so why not give it race bike components like 3 pos lockout front and rear? I use the lockouts all the time on my fork. Smooth climb, fully locked. Fast gravel section, fully locked. Medium bumpy climb, 2nd open position. Spec Evo brain Canyon Lux lockouts Spark RC lockouts Giant anthem lockouts Merida lockouts Trek superc lockouts Orbea Oiz lockouts Scalpel lockouts Nino Schurter: lockouts Hannah Finchamp (Pivot Sponsored): lockouts Keegan Swenson: lockouts

[@mtbyumyum]

The M4 comes in two models... My video is focused more on the trail version... this bike is also offered in the more race bike form including a 100mm fork with remote and 95mm shock.

[@TomCollins-c4h]

Epic Evo has some stiff competition now.

[@mtbyumyum]

The epic evo is still in the conversation? 😆😂✌️

[@TomCollins-c4h]

@@mtbyumyum I came within one click of buying one, got the Spur instead. But yeah that Pivot is next level!

[@COMOMTB]

C’mon @mtbyumyum… Love the videos but the Epic Evo has the same geo, is lighter, fits two full size water bottles, has none of the proprietary Specialized stuff. My Pro model even had the Grip 2 damper on the Fox 34. For the intended riding purpose (fast trail/XC type riding) this Pivot will still be slower. I love the look of it and always like the DW Link suspension on Pivot’s and my Ripmo but the Evo still sets the bar in my opinion for this category of bike.

[@christopherhatley4796]

I'm in love with my Epic EVO... But would love to demo this bike!

[@mtbyumyum]

@Scott S I'm only jabbing... you may not know but I have a 2023 Sworks Stumpjuper and 2022 Sworks SJ evo right now... both a lot of fun and both great bikes! That said, there are some real limitations to the single pivot / flex chainstays/seatstays model of bikes. In one sense they're really neat because you can build a super light weight bike using less material. They're very energetic and lively but, this model puts a lot of responsibility on the shock tune. I'm not an engineer but I can tell you from owning this Stumpjumper since September of last year that the shock gets overwhelmed very easy and is difficult to get just right. If you want more traction it comes at the price of worse pedaling efficiency and poor bottom out resistance. If you get a chance to ride your bike back to back on the same day and same trail with an Exie or this M4 you will see the difference. You mentioned the M4 being slower... maybe. If you're local and ride a medium I'd be interested to find out?!

[@shane4176]

But does it climb? Sweet video looks like a great trail and great bike!

[@mtbyumyum]

🤘🤙

[@marcid6527]

Sonic the Hedgehog haha!! 😂

[@mtbyumyum]

haha it was the thing that kept popping into my head as I was riding this speed machine!!

[@lidarman2]

So does this bike suck now that you have reviewed highly a lot of other bikes since?

[@mtbyumyum]

Not at all... I think there are better "xc" option out there that are lighter weight but as far as blurring the lines between "short trail bike" and "xc bike" this does it probably better than any other bike!

[@Mockle07]

So… you liked it then?! 😂

[@mtbyumyum]

yeah bud!

[@Mockle07]

It sounds phenomenal, we are really spoiled for choice at the moment, your enthusiasm was infectious on this one!

[@marcid6527]

Haha!