EP 1 // Pivot Firebird Review

On my first video, I talk about the channel and my long-term thoughts on owning a Pivot Firebird after a full year.
IG: spencerastrapov

[@svenhofmann4916]

Hey Spencer! Awesome that you created another Channel besides the Freehub Mag Content! You honestly have the coolest Mtb-related Videos. I am really looking forward to what lies ahead for this channel! Keep up the great work! 👌

[@stephenburke2206]

Spencer, would love to hear some comparisons between bikes (ie SB160 vs Firebird). Or what terrain would you prefer to ride different bikes from the same brand (Ie Switchblade vs Firebird). Also component insights (tires, brakes, etc). Just really enjoy your insights and watching you ride. Good luck with the new channel

[@gnar_tar]

Bird is the word !!! Interesting after all those bikes you've tried you landed on the Firebird. In love with mine, EXT fork, coil and MX wheelset. Such a ripper riding down steep BC trail, really a swiss army knife. Looking forward for more personal content, always enjoyed the reviews on Freehub Mag. Although after watching the Shadowcat and T429 review, I think I also need one those smaller trail puppies lol. Cheers

[@christianborris6754]

I'm gonna watch anything you put out. Some of my favorite videos from Freehub are your reviews of shorter travel bikes, and just seeing how hard a talented rider can push those little bikes. It would be cool to see videos showing your perspective of how your riding style adapts to different bikes and trails.

[@isaaclerner5268]

Dude! I have never seen that trail ridden that fast or fluidly. One of my favorites in town, but you absolutely shredded down it!

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

My personal fav 🙌🏻

[@jsobol12]

Hey Spenc! So glad to be following your channel. Been watching you for a few years on the other channel and you have been incredibly helpful and insightful to many of us regular bikers out there! Hands down, you are the best MTB reviewer I have witnessed and am so grateful for the amazing content over the years. Keep it up!

[@shaybull4538]

Great vid!!! really good to hear your opinion of a bike you own. I had a lot of the same experience with my Firebird. can't wait for more videos 👍

[@finroddd]

Hi there - do you have it with the DT Swiss alloy wheels? Or with carbon Reynolds wheels? It seems like all the Firebirds sent to Europe are with the alloys.

[@loud_v8_noises]

Hey Spencer, hyped to follow this channel since I’ve followed you for all the Freehub stuff. Keep the videos coming. Of all the reviews online I always am most drawn to your stuff since we’re about the same size, weight and ride in PNW. Couple ideas for videos, it would be cool to hear more about Freehub and how you got involved with them and any other insider bike industry info you want to share. -Maybe talk about your background & riding experience as well. -What are some of your favorite brands of bikes to ride & why. -Definitely some setup talk based on riding so many different bikes/components. Tire choice, pressures etc. similar to the thoughts you’ve shared on bars. - racing background/experience? - dream spots to ride? The format you have is super enjoyable to watch I just have to make sure to swap to 4k resolution

[@aweldum]

Bought a LArge instead of a Med coming from a Large Yeti SB5.5 (I'm 6', 180lbs) and i have really appreciated the confidence at speed. Certainly could appreciate all the advantages you mention and am looking at getting high rise bars to get my weight back a little more. Looking forward to eating up your content buv :)

[@RayHowrad]

Enjoyed the video and excited for the channel. Your review of the Trail 429 Enduro helped me decide to pick up that bike. Also, we’re about the same weight so I value the bigger rider’s perspective you provide. It’d be cool if you put bike build details in the description, even things like hi vs low setting. Specifically, I’m wondering what brand and rise bars you’re running and what stem length. I’d like to experiment with higher bars and I’ve run out of steerer tube. Thanks

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

Yeah I realized that after recording. There are so many details to get into. Maybe I'll just do another video digging deeper into the setup. I just picked up some 50mm rise Deity bars and they feel fantastic. Its a good way to raise up the front end.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I just picked up some Diety 35mm 50mm rise bars. Those feel great to me!

[@bullseye0112]

So sick Spencer subscribed. The Geo is hard to pin. If I get the small the reach is right but wheelbase is a little too short. If I get medium wheelbase is doable but reach is crazy long for me being 5'7". How do you compare it to the RM Altitude?

[@jaybartlett2561]

Subscribed! Love your reviews on Freehub. Would be great to learn more about the ways you customized your FB. Really enjoyed mine. Sounds like the Evil wheels and RS suspension. Mine currently has DT Swiss aluminum wheels and hoping to upgrade to carbon. I'm also debating ditching the X2 air for some sort of coil.

[@Chance.B]

Love your reviews, and stoked on the new channel! I know it's been awhile since you were on the Evil Wreckoning, but curious how it compares to the Firebird? I recently picked up the 429 Enduro for my trail bike and LOVE it. Now it's got me wanting to sell my Wrecker and pick up the Firebird too. They seem like they would be pretty similar bikes. I'm trying to decide if there's enough of a difference between the two to justify it.....

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

They are, I'll try to get on a Wreckoning soon for my personal channel. It's been too long.

[@a8f235]

I own a Switchblade and as someone who was away from mountainbiking for a lot of years, it sure was a bit back and forth for me personally as to what such a bike really is. After enough time on it all I can say is that it's just a do it all kind of bike and it just works. I haven't had any weird or surprising things happening while riding this thing so it must mean that Pivot must've done something right. In the beginning I just had to adapt to a lot of new stuff and build an understanding of what I as the human are capable of and what this bike should be able to cope with. For me it feels like a mini-enduro, which is a big win for me because that means I got more than enough for the trails that are available to me.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

Did you get the new Switchblade? That bike is so rad.

[@a8f235]

@@SpencerAstraPOV No, it's from 2022 so the previous gen. The new 2024 might be a slight improvement, but I'm very good with the one I got. I'd never upgrade even if I had the money because I just don't think it's worth it. For someone in the market for something else then sure, probably a very good bike so should be a done deal. For me personally I'm just gonna keep and maintain the one I got. I just don't feel it's worth selling bikes like this unless something is just wrong with it.

[@parker_drummer8647]

@@SpencerAstraPOVI’m stuck between the new switchblade and the bird. What are your thoughts on pedal efficiency and downhill capabilities between the two?

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

@@parker_drummer8647 Where do you live?

[@parker_drummer8647]

@@SpencerAstraPOV minnesota, stuff near me is very xc but I have a cabin up north where I ride more downhill stuff. When I ride around home it’s more to be in shape for the fun stuff up north

[@sebastian_cervantes]

Hey man! Super cool to find your personal channel, honestly, your reviews are some of my favorite over at freehub! I’m considering getting this this bike. I currently own a specialized s works enduro, it’s amazing but this firebird is growing on me. Would you recommend it?

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I'd definitely recommend it. THe suspension curve rides way firmer than an enduro and the wheelbase is quite a bit shorter feeling. Go with the firebird if you want a more active ride with more to push off against.

[@sebastian_cervantes]

@@SpencerAstraPOV Thanks for the reply Spencer! I actually got my self one. Do you know what size the rear shock is? I want to upgrade. Thanks again for the reply.

[@Bogdan_Ch]

⁠trunnion 205 by 65

[@jesse_b_nesse]

Thanks for the videos Spencer! Look forward to following along! I’m curious about your thoughts/impressions on coil vs air on this particular iteration of the DW link? Still supportive enough on climbs and in the mid stroke? Does it give the fabled efficient-yet-traction feel?

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I have a tough time picking betwee air and coil. The bike is noticeably poppier and lighter feeling with the air shock, but the coil has a nice mide stroke while climbing and feels more active on rough downhills. If I want a light setup I go air, if I want more ground hugging I go with coil. If I had to pick one I'd probably go with the Super Deluxe air.

[@chriscalomino5229]

Owned this bike back in 21 and it was solid but you really have to size down on it. I typically ride an XL and the 510 reach on the geo chart felt massive compared to my transition at the same reach #'s. I assume the long top tube is part of that. You have me wanting to go demo a L size and throw 40mm rise bar on and try short playful 170mm fun machine 😆

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I really think I'm onto something with the nimble 170 bike. It's an amazing one bike quiver.

[@ryangraham8208]

Hey Spencer, I'm hoping to get your take on the Firebird vs Spire. I'm currently on a Spire, and absolutely love how it descends on steep rough trails. On the Spire, climbing efficiency is okay (livable) but it does feels slow pumping through low angle trails. I'm tempted to make the move to a more efficient bike but I also don't want to sacrifice much in the way of downhill capability. I know the effeciency will be there with the Firebird, but did you notice a big difference on the downs between the two. How does the Firebird stand up to steep rough trails? Thanks!

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

The Spire and the Firebird are pretty different feeling. The Firebird is quite a bit shorter overall wheelbase and higher bottom bracket. The firebird is much more agile and pumpable on smaller terrain - which is why I like the versatility, but if I were looking for stability on super steep terrain the Spire is one of the most stable bikes I've ridden. A good option might be to try a normal sized Firebird frame since they're such a long reach. I sized down to medium which makes my bike more agile. Do a test ride if you can. The firebird will be more efficient feeling but I find both bikes climb really well.

[@jesse_b_nesse]

If you have any experience riding an SB160, I find the Firebird feels just as stable, but whereas the Yeti feels velcro’d to the ground, the Pivot feels unbridled… not exactly jumpy and poppy, but willing to liftoff more readily. I’m 6’3” and have ridden both in the XL, and the SB160 pretty much has identical geo to the Firebird in the low setting. No Spire, but maybe that can help ya!

[@ryangraham8208]

@@SpencerAstraPOV Thanks for your insight, you're always my go-to for ride impressions so this helps! I'm going to seek out a test ride if possible. Keep crushing it with the videos, I'm enjoying this new channel.

[@ryangraham8208]

@@jesse_b_nesse This is super helpful feedback, I'm 6'2 and ride XLs as well. I've had some short time on Yeti's and have experienced the velcro feeling you're alluding to. Did you make the move from an SB160 to the Firebird? If so, how do you like it?

[@jesse_b_nesse]

@@ryangraham8208 I’m actually in the market myself, throwing a leg over any enduro bike I can snag time on. Upgrading from a Ripmo for more stability! Just rode a Firebird this weekend, and so far it’s between those two bikes… though I’d love to try a Spire.

[@urbanaacademy848]

I am a fan! I think people love how bikes compare. I am very curious to know how will it compare to the sb160 or other top level bikes.

[@andrewkhody]

SB160 is a bit more DH oriented and more planted on chunkier stuff vs the bird is super poppy and requires rider input.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

The firebird probably couldn't feel more different from a SB160. It feels way poppier and less ground hugging, but it does seem to beat you up a bit more. I think the 160 is a smoother ride. I was pretty blown away by how dramatic the feel the switch infinity was.

[@SaMDoan]

Hey Spencer. This personal content looks like it’s going to be amazing. Would you mind divulging your weight, height, and spring rate? I think I heard you said you’re running coil.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

Hey! Thanks, I hope I can talk about some interesting things - or at least show off some fun trails. I'm 215 lbs, 5'11", and right now I have a 550 Super Deluxe coil shock on the firebird as well as Super Deluxe Air that I swap out.

[@ColoradoFleece]

@@SpencerAstraPOVdamn 5’11 265 on a M? Do you think being 5’10 155 on a L frame would be ridiculous on this bike? I’m coming off a Specialized Demo M frame that just feels too small. Not sure how the sizing compares

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I'm sure both wouild ride fine, but at 5'10" I would recommend the medium. I could easily ride a large too, I just prefer the medium for a do it all bike. @@ColoradoFleece

[@ColoradoFleece]

@@SpencerAstraPOV fair. Appreciate it!

[@burkebair]

I have a M firebird as well and love it. I'm 5'-10" and run a 50mm stem. What length of stem are you running? I've been contemplating going to a 40mm stem.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I run as short of a stem as I can find. I can't stand 50mm+ stems. I think this is from my past experience as a skatepark rider.

[@ThangHua-i5j]

hey Spencer! Im looking at a merida 160 and it has very similar geo to the firebird, I was just wondering if you have ridden one before and if it was a similar-ish bike?

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I haven't ridden one, sorry!

[@ThangHua-i5j]

@@SpencerAstraPOV all good 😄

[@ericsplayland]

I'm debating between the Firebird and the Switchblade. I owned the original Firebird and now riding an Evil Calling. Been missing the extra travel and not getting beat up. Any thoughts between the 2 Pivots.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I'm reviewing the Switch Blade now. I think it's an easy choice based on what kind of terrain you're riding. the SB is so much more agile and snappy. If I lived around more mellow terrain I'd be so happy with the SB.

[@pourquoipasmec]

What tires are you running? I’m looking for something light, but still capable and suitable for the FB29, to further improve the versatility of the bike. The double assegai stock is just too heavy in my opinion.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

I was running a schwalbe dirty dan and big betty this day. I find schwalbe tires are pretty efficient. The big betty rolls well. Maxxis Dissector is great for the rear too. DHF rolls fast in the front.

[@pourquoipasmec]

@@SpencerAstraPOV Thanks! Appreciate the response and your reviews.

[@user-xq5rp9fm1p]

How tall are you?

[@dav31078]

Do you run a medium compression tune for your rear shock?

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

@@dav31078 I believe so, but I’d prefer low compression.

[@dav31078]

@@SpencerAstraPOV good to know. I’ll try out the light tune since evil is unloading some via PB.

[@klugehf]

Just curious re your stack height. I'm running the 35 mm rise OneUp bars too and have been feeling like I could use a bit more height when climbing and on steeps. How did you decide how many spacers was enough?

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

When I recieved my Zeb I left the steer tube almost comically long. I don't have the measurement right now, but it's got to be around 1.5" to 2" worth of spacers under the stem.

[@klugehf]

@@SpencerAstraPOV ah. My Lyrik came on the complete build and there's not much steet tube to play with. May have to just run higher bars. Wish OneUp made more than a 35 mm rise.

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

@@klugehf agreed! I wish they sold a higher rise.

[@justinfournier1285]

Hey Spencer I like your style. So, how tall are you?

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

Hey, thanks! I'm 5'11"

[@justinfournier1285]

@@SpencerAstraPOV Ah ok, thank you and so am I, what kind of circumstances would make you chose the L? I just bought a Trail 429 partially based on your other channels review and now looking to replace my Stumpjumper Evo…

[@SpencerAstraPOV]

@@justinfournier1285 That's awesome where are you riding? I moved from a Stumpjumper Evo to a Firebird as well. I've been really happy with it. The Firebird has a similar do it all feel that the EVO had with more travel.

[@justinfournier1285]

@@SpencerAstraPOV Thanks for that info. Makes me more confident in my plan. I ride mostly in the lower mainland and lots up in Kamloops, BC. I’ll think about the M/L and re-watch your videos incase I missed anything. I’m running 157mm rear on the Evo with cascade link and a DHX coil for the larger diameter piston to deal with the Evo’s side loading issue. It’s a full custom so I might even just find a Firebird frame.

[@johnnnewmex]

"illegal" trail.... that's been ridden thousands of times 😂...no such thing as illegal unless it is flat out trespassing. Nothing wrong with trail building without all the bureaucratic groups giving their unnecessary blessing