Pivot

Phoenix Carbon Mountain Bike Frame - 2015

Since it rose from the ashes of countless discarded designs and blueprints five years ago, Pivot's Phoenix Carbon Mountain Bike Frame has become not just one of our favorite rides, but perches easily at the top of the DH heap. It borrows the Hollo Core Internal Molding process originally developed for Pivot's legendary Mach 6 enduro frame in order to hit the big DH travel numbers with a weight that leans toward the all-mountain category. As an added bonus, the Phoenix is among the best looking DH bikes we've had the pleasure of putting in mortal danger, so it brings a bit of haute couture to a gnarly shred session.

The Phoenix Carbon features a full-carbon frameset with Pivot's own take on the DW-Link suspension. DW-Link describes an adaptive travel path that balances the suspension to eliminate bob and provide a consistent pedaling platform, even while climbing. Similar to other popular designs in its ability to balance chain-pull and downward pedal stroke, DW-Link takes things a step further with anti-squat functionality that reduces bottom bracket sag and allows Pivot to lower the bottom bracket placement and slacken the head tube angle. This translates to a lower overall center of gravity, which in real-world terms means better cornering stability and overall handling precision across even the hairiest lines.

Pivot pairs this tech with a FOX RC4 Kashima rear shock for a smooth, powerful ride that hugs the trail through every turn. In layman terms this means you can tackle the course with confidence that every bit of power you expend while climbing is bringing you one pedal stroke closer to dropping in. The exceptionally durable Enduro Max cartridge bearings throughout the build keep everything moving smoothly through mile after mile of rock garden abuse. The gets some protection, too, with molded rubber down tube and swingarm protectors to help reduce vibrations and protect your ride from the inevitable bumps you'll encounter while sending it after dropping in. After all, the Phoenix is not only notable for its low weight and high travel, but it's also absolutely gorgeous. There's no reason why getting gnarly should come at the cost of not looking good.