Follow MTB yumyum on Instagram: instagram.com/mtb_yumyum/ Follow Zac, Sivogah, (the guy riding in front of me) on Instagram: instagram.com/sivogah/ Link to the gps/data, Strava file for this ride: www.strava.com/activities/1595159497
the M5.5 feels more like the Switchblade but maybe just a little more playful. The Trail 429 is very different from just about any other bike I've ridden. Sort of like a race bike with better geo and more stable!
Can't wait to see you ride the pivot firebird 29er. Was almost close to getting a hightower and then this new bike came out and now I don't know what to do LOL
Great format, I really enjoyed the two viewpoints and opinions. Half baked idea but when you described what the Jacob's Ladder trail in this video it made me wonder if there might be worth in doing a video dedicated to breaking down Jacob's Ladder. Maybe looking at sections and describing what you like in a bike for each different part. That way your viewers can have an even better idea of the trail you are using to form your final thoughts. I don't know, it sounds bad when I write it down but it made sense in my head at one point. Anyways if your video's were 30 minutes long I'd still be wishing for more.
I've actually though about including some still frame pictures in the videos so people can get an idea of the terrain, drops and rocky sections... they just don't come out in my videos... I'm poor at editing and cant get the crystal clear footage to come up on UA-cam for some reason. Thanks for your comment, I'd like to including more info about the trails I ride as that is such a big part of the discussion in terms of how the bikes ride. Thank you!
Another cool side by side comparison. Man, that mid-travel 29er category is stacked! Really can’t go wrong these days. I have an Intense Primer and it’s been my favorite bike I’ve owned so far.
Great review! Making a choice between these bikes has to be based on your preferred riding. If you ride more groomed trails with moderate chunk, go for the trail 429. If your riding consists of technical chunk and more black diamond gnar go for the switchblade. You really can't go wrong with either bike. The switchblade will definitely be more confidence inspiring. The trail 429 is a more xc/trail bike , that would feel at home on a gnarly XC race or light enduro. The switchblade could easily handle enduro. I have both bikes and sometimes forget which bike I'm on.
The direct comparison format really is fantastic. Your videos keep getting better. It would be cool to see you ride with a woman who can shred, and i bet it would be great exposure to a different market for Salt cycles as well.
I haven't gotten chance to ride one yet but Brian from JRA is super-stoked on his. Nope, still on the Altitude. About to shoot a long term review of sorts.
I'm looking forward to the Demo next week, but I better no like the Trail 429 better then my Switchblade! After riding it watching MTB yumyum's and your review I was convinced on the Switchblade. I love it, but could I like the new trail 429 better. I hope not, the wife won't let me buy another one for about 10 years! :-)
Ray Meyers LOL. Im in the same dilemma. Im looking for next ride and after demoing Pivots at Dirtfest WV I am getting one. Only problem is I couldnt demo a switchblade except a few mins on my buds which was too small bc they didnt have my size. But loved loved loved the Trail 429. It was a rocket and tossable yet I threw it down some chunk and it just smiled. They’re such similar bikes- Switchblade is just a little more burly. So once I throw a leg over that one I’ll have my next ride. Now I just need to think about waiting til next year when hopefully the XTR 1x build in both has the new 51 tooth 1 x 12. Glad to hear you love your Switchblade, although it’s not making my decision easier!! 😃
That was quite awesome, Hearing Zaks take was really great. Worth the wait, I’ll check it out again I’m sure! Launch city thought he was gonna hit a tree....
haha the funny thing is, I always ask Zac to pull it back a bit so I can keep up with him hahaha he's a super talented bike rider and I really value his input... would be fun to get him in more of the videos!
man great head to head comparison. Loved both inputs during the ride. I just bought a Ibis Ripmo because of your previous review on it. How would you stack it up to the pivot 429 trail?
The Ripmo is very different from this Trail429.... this feels more like a race bike but with better geo and more plush... the Ripmo feels like a bigger bike, more stable and capable at speed
Last question. Just curious what you think comparing the Ripmo to the 2019 Stumpy you reviewed. TBH i was torn between the two after your reviews and am curious about which you liked better?
This is somewhat off-topic but I am in the market for the Giant Trance 2 and liked your review video. How does that bike compare to Switchblade? Thanks!
Great job, Jason! Keep up the work and never give up! I actually like to see you riding and flowing through the trails! That's good! You should review more mountainbikes, especially the new Scott genius tuned and giant reign bikes!!!
Zac said he’d choose the 429 for Corner Canyon over other bikes, what say ye? In the market for a CC bike, definitely don’t charge like you two. Would the stumpy ST be comparable?
brnrms I’ve only tested the regular 2019 stumpy but I loved it too. Almost as much as this 429. The 429 won’t require a hard charging style, I think it’s a great choice for 90% of riders. Wish I could buy all the bikes. Honestly, it’s hard to find a bad bike these days, if you can find a deal on a stumpy ST, you’ll be more than happy on it as well!
I expect most of what you're feeling is the difference in the forks, 130mm vs 160mm. The shorter throw fork should feel more immediate, but the geo on those two bikes is nearly identical, actually favoring the Switchblade for playfulness with a slightly shorter chainstay than the Trail 429. Stick a lighter 130mm Pike on the Switchblade and I'd expect it would be dang close to neck & neck, but you'd also have to add a 2nd spacer to maintain the same head angle.
Great Review! I think that a lot of people are torn between these two bike categories (120mm and 140mm 29ers). Nice discussion of the differences. These bikes keep getting better and better.
Great to hear/see a comparison of these two bike. I love my Mach 429 Trail. Been curious how the Switchblade compares. Love the new colors on the 2019 429 too. Apologies if I missed it, but were you running 29s or 27.5s?
TYVM for the comparo/baseline between the Switchblade n the Norco Range, it brought into focus the ride qualities of the SB a whole lot mo betta. Im a point n shoot (older) rider, demo'd both, n thought the same...now subscribed...ty again!
Looking at the pivot 429 trail Enduro, pivot switchblade and the revel rascal. Trying to decide between a few different bikes. Zach didnt make it any easier. I'm looking for the one bike to ride local trails and race an enduro race once a month in texas and arkansas. Which would you choose if you can only choose one?
Another excellent vid Jason! Me and my son are going to Dirt Fest put on my Dirt Rag magazine that's close to me. We are going to test ride some Pivot, Ibis, Yeti, and as many other bikes that we can. We don't have an LBS close for several of the brands but we're going to try and rock out in July!! I'm also going to make videos of the weekend too. Hope to be able to edit them ok. :)
StrikeForce MTB hey man. I was at that dirtfest. Live In DC but have a place out in Deep Creek Lake. Awesome time. I demoed the hell outta the Pivots too. So far between the SC Tallboy, Trek Fuel EX, Pivot Mach 5.5, SC Hightower LT, Scott Spark, and Pivot Trail 429, The Pivot Trail 429 is far and away my fav. I still have to try the Switchblade, new 2019 SC 5010 and Bronson. If you are ever in Deep Creek area and wanna ride hmu. There are some good trails there.
All these bikes seem to be the same and I think I could be happy with any of these bikes. It is all a matter of how much travel and plowing we want to do... Would love to see you do some some in depth Reviews of Forks, Shocks, Brakes, Drivevtrain, and especially Tires.
Yeah, totally. I take a lot of flack from people saying I always say possitive things about bike or that I like every bike... well, I for the most part do! Of all the bikes I've demo'd I could be just fine riding just about any one of them. There are things about each brand and bike that make them a little different and some bikes have a personality about them that draws me to them. Its a great time to be a mountain biker!
MYY, I have watched all your reviews. They are all a Great Source for any bike... it's because I watched them all, is why I am a little bored of them, however, for a new Rider, or someone considering a new Bike, your Reviews are a GREAT FIRST STOP shop. Would love to hear your input on components and accessories.... but they have to be real world reviews, and NOT Whore Kiss Ass Reviews like all the Bicycle Magazines do.
For the trails in these videos, I'd personally pick the Trail429 every time. The switchblade is more on par with the Ripmo but I like the Ripmo better... just more personality to it and very easy to ride! Of the 3, if I could only own one bike, I'd go with the Ripmo personally. Good luck!
Nice review. I think I passed you and your wife yesterday, 7/1, on Happy Gilmore. You should try a Devinci Django 29. Same travels numbers as the 429 Trail, regular boost and it can take up to 2.6 tire rear. Split-pivot is very efficient on the climbs and it feels like it has way more squish than its numbers. They also just came out with the Troy 29 and it has the super boost plus spacing like the Pivots but with threaded bottom bracket. It will be interesting to see how this new "standard" develops and who adopts it. But, you should definitely throw your leg over some Devincis. I am very happy with my Django 29. I chose it after pretty much riding a ton of stuff including the Mach 429, SB, Tallboy, Ripley LS, Mojo 3 and Stumpy ST.
Great look at two sweet rides! Hate to hear you say the Switchblade felt muted; I'm a heavier rider (215 lbs) and I test road everything I could get my hands on before buying a switchblade. I never felt good pushing on a 34 like I do with a Pike or Lyrik, but gotta say the Fox 36 suits me so well and combined with the solid Switchblade frame and Reynolds/I9 wheels - perfect fit for bigger riders.
Chuck, I hope you watched further into the video where I talked to the fact of the Switchblade still being a lot of fun! It's an incredible bike and I can totally understand why you like yours! When compared with the Trail 429 it doesn't feel a bit muted, but it's not necessarily a bad attribute?! This also makes it more confidence inspiring, composed at higher speed through rough terrain and stable!
Being a bigger guy myself, I feel the switchblade is a much more composed bike. My trail 429 can feel very twitchy/nervous on more technical terrain. Don't get me wrong, the trail 429 is a great handling bike, but I'm with you on that 34.
Chuck clyde Thanks for your comment. Im buying one of the two and your comment helps a lot. Btw- I’m 215 too and it’s funny how in my other sport, Rugby, I’m not considered a big guy. But in mountain biking Im like fatty o’tub-a-lard!! Lol.
How tall is your friend? At 5'11, I usually ride a large but their new geo is quite long. The medium is like a smaller large and the large like an XL. Thoughts?
Funny I’m 5’10 and went up to XL and actually loved it. But my torso is longer than legs comparatively, so I like a longer reach with a short stem- 475-480 mm reach is my perfect range. When I buy I’ll chop 10 mm off stem (on the XL they put a 150 mm stem) and get a. 30 mm rise Renthal Fatbar and it will be perfect. But that’s just my take for a different perspective. Try to ride one first to see what works for you.
Another great video Jason! I too really like to hear Zacs perspective and how you bounce thoughts/opinions off each other. BTW what specific 429 build was this and did u have the stock build rims or the Reynolds upgrade? Always a joy to also watch zach ride and play. So cool to watch two good guys talking and at pg level so my kids can watch u as well. Keep it up and already looking forward ur next video. Would love for bnb u to review the intense sniper trail pro build if able. Thanks Dan
Dan, thank you! I'd like to get more videos produced like this one... comparison videos are super helpful and I love having Zac along for the ride! I didn't ride with the stock wheels and tires... I swapped out for a carbon/I9 wheelset with lighter weight DHR II 2.3 front tire and Forkeaster 2.35 rear tire..
@@mtbyumyum Jason, was this a fair comparison in terms of wheels, tires and fork throw and offset? Seems the angles are not identical but similar enough that I would not expect the two bikes to feel all that different, but both you and Zac seem to really prefer the 429 which makes sense if there's a significant difference in wheels & forks.
How can you pick one over the other, they're nearly identical geometry! Like maybe 1-2 millimeters difference here and there! If anything I'd take the Switchblade for the additional travel. Are both bikes running identical wheels & tires?
Boost 157 scares some folks. But it is what makes those 29ers so great. The stiffness and matching front and rear wheel flex are what make them carve so well. Like a knife through water. I love my switchblade. Thanks for these videos, keep them coming please.
Yep! And peeps might as well get used to it.... 157 is here to stay. You'll see more brands adopt the spacing over the next few years. It's superior to boost and they should have just gone from 142 to 157 in the first place. It's that good!
Is there actually a big difference? I have a boost 29er and I never find rear end flex to be an issue, but my trails are rough and rocky and the exact opposite of fast and flowy so I'm not railing berms all the time.
It was the second thing in noticed on my very first ride. The first was the carbon handle bars. But rear end did not deflect off the big rocks. It just tracked straight through. I came from a 2014 chamber expert evo and smashed all my down hill pr's. Rocks and chunk I was afraid of on the camber, I did not even notice on the switchblade. I live in WA ride tiger mountain a lot. A black trail called off the grid, first run I beat my previous pr by 7 minutes.
To be fair you are changing a ton of things coming from that bike; the camber has an aluminum rear end that is a multi bar design, while the switchblade has a full carbon single piece rear triangle that should be inherently stiffer because of that. You are also going from 142 to 157.
All those things and the switchblade has breaks that work... The rear triangle is stiffer being carbon AND 157. So, the wheel is stiffer and then triangle. But yes, Big difference.
I'm glad Pivot went all in on 157 spacing. No bike out of the many I demoed compared to the lateral stiffness of my Switchblade and I can tell it helps make the Trail 429 a ripper. For the trails I ride full of roots and rocks I have the right bike out of the two. Nice review but I would rather see bikes from different brands of the same category compared personally.
Good Review. Pivot Trail 429 is definitely a bike I could see owning as I am looking for a short travel razor sharp trail/climbing bike to go along with my Nomad3 and Scott Gambler 710 DH bike.
Hey great reviews. 1. how would you compare the 429 to the ripmo? I’m in western va (lots of punchy climbs and 2.5 min Rooty descendants) looking to chase PR’s for climbs and then the downs. 2. I hear everyone say that you have to ride the switchblade hard to get it to corner good, it the 429 the same? I’m not willing to push beyond how I’m feeling for any given day and want to have fun riding either slow or fast. I’m currently on a 2017 trek fuel ex 9. Thanks.
T429 and Ripley are on another level in terms of climbing, HT is more stable and composed descending at speed, T429 is the best of the 3 bikes mentioned. Climbs about as well as the Ripley and descends better. Is incredibly stiff feeling resulting in one of the most snappy and quick feeling 29ers available right now. If you can only own one bike and want a 29er, the Trail 429 will be tough to beat!
Interesting, I hadn't even considered it as I though they were so different... If I have time in the next week I'll swing by the shop and grab a 5.5. Thanks for the suggestion!
Thanks! Would love to hear your opinion. I demo'd a 5.5 in Moab in April (and again recently on my home trails) and a Trail 429 at home as well. Honestly - I really liked them both. I think I'd want to size down the tires on the 5.5 from 2.6 and maybe a slightly more narrow rim than 35mm to make it feel snappier. Would you throw a 140 fork on the Trail 429 or leave it as is at 130?
If the T429 were my only bike, 140mm for sure. The big difference is the power and stability of the fox 36 on the 5.5 that makes it feel so different from the T429 also, the T429 just feels very stiff and much less forgiving than the 5.5 over similar terrain. I'd be interested to ride them back-to-back after thinking more about them. Thx!
I've been all over the map in shopping this summer. There are so many good bikes out there right now. The 5.5 was fun in Moab - great for that terrain and super fun descending/corners but it felt like a 'big' bike for me. I'm on a Mach 5.7 now and was hoping that the 5.5 would have that same playful feel. I've tried the Following MB in SLC (dug it) and depending on the way the wind is blowing eyeing up the Trail 429 (wow it's fast), Ibis 3 (rode in Tahoe and really liked it) HD4/Ripmo, Rocky Altitude (had 2 rocky's in the past), 5010 (prefer DW vs. VPP)... so yeah... all over the map.
Great review and comparisons! Love the side by side comps. For any who are in the Utah county area, Noble Cycling in Spanish Fork carries Pivot now. Come in and check them out!
Just rode both of these bikes with 27.5+ setups (Rekons) at the demo in Telluride yesterday (DH runs only) and the Trail 429 was my preferred bike. Wish I'd had time to take them both on single track, but think the 429 still would have won that too (and wish I could have ridden the 429 setup 29er)
Just by looking at the terrain you are riding I pick winner. There is no way to use switchblade potential here. In less demanding terrain less suspension is better. Too bad most people think they need 200mm travel for their local easy flowy trails.
Right now I have a Ibis HD4, Yeti SB100 (for sale) and I just bought the new Ibis Ripley... should be here next week! I'm also shopping for a long travel 29er.. think I might go with the Rocky Mountain Instinct BC Edition
Depends on your riding style and trail system. Between the 2 I'd go w the Pivot T429. If I could only own 1 bike at a time it would be a Rocky Mountain Instinct. Hands down best do everything bike available right now🤘
Thanks for sharing the info on these bikes. I tested both the Switchblade and the 429 Trail and preferred the 429 Trail - a very precise bike and I set a PR for an ascent on this bike the first time I rode it. I described the bike as "a bike that made me smile".
Sold my house, moving soon out of nazi germafornia to the free country of Idaho and have been wondering where to ride. I'm finding your videos particularly tasty, Mr. YumYum
MTB yumyum , haha , make it happen , “We’re going with Parker 😂😂👍🏽Sorry Zac , but Parker is our favourite rider , obviously after J haha 👍🏽👍🏽 I wanna see Parker on the Nomad N4 , just to get his views I’ve had mine for a while now and you know what , I think the Nomad is a bike for people that are kinda like not Pro but for riders that push the limits and past , I’m a trail rider so it’s definitely not for me , I DO like it though it’s super fast downhill 😃😃✅
Frame only would be nice I guess but honestly, most people buy complete bikes. 157mm rear ends are here to stay my friend! It's better, makes more sense with the overall direction the industry is going and honestly, I just think it's a matter of time till the rest of the industries moves that direct... whether it's now or a few years from now, it will be annoying and frustrating but it will happen and after a year or two it will be like nothing ever happened.
Scott I agree with Jason on Superboost. Ride it and see. I couldn’t believe how it made that rear feel. Awesome. Actually the one I don’t see staying around is boost. Just have regular for light cc bikes and go to super for everything else. Its not like its not already around- the 157 size comes from downhillers.
Follow MTB yumyum on Instagram: instagram.com/mtb_yumyum/
Follow Zac, Sivogah, (the guy riding in front of me) on Instagram: instagram.com/sivogah/
Link to the gps/data, Strava file for this ride: www.strava.com/activities/1595159497
the M5.5 feels more like the Switchblade but maybe just a little more playful. The Trail 429 is very different from just about any other bike I've ridden. Sort of like a race bike with better geo and more stable!
Can't wait to see you ride the pivot firebird 29er. Was almost close to getting a hightower and then this new bike came out and now I don't know what to do LOL
MTB yumyum Wich bike do you prefer
Dylan Powell thanks
Dylan Powell my dad said that he would rather have a little extra suspension than not enough
fantastic video Jay, love that comparison style. by the way, you are the best bike reviewer on youtube period
bikerdhill agreed
Great format, I really enjoyed the two viewpoints and opinions. Half baked idea but when you described what the Jacob's Ladder trail in this video it made me wonder if there might be worth in doing a video dedicated to breaking down Jacob's Ladder. Maybe looking at sections and describing what you like in a bike for each different part. That way your viewers can have an even better idea of the trail you are using to form your final thoughts. I don't know, it sounds bad when I write it down but it made sense in my head at one point. Anyways if your video's were 30 minutes long I'd still be wishing for more.
I've actually though about including some still frame pictures in the videos so people can get an idea of the terrain, drops and rocky sections... they just don't come out in my videos... I'm poor at editing and cant get the crystal clear footage to come up on UA-cam for some reason. Thanks for your comment, I'd like to including more info about the trails I ride as that is such a big part of the discussion in terms of how the bikes ride. Thank you!
That was fun to watch! You guys are great riders. That manual at the end, WOW!!! Keep up the great reviews 👍
Great comparison, and great to hear Zac's take!
Yeah, wish the audio could have picked him up a little better... fun getting his input! He shreds!
He is so dang fun to watch. Boosting off everything. And that manual...
RideLabs Yeah the manual !
Another cool side by side comparison. Man, that mid-travel 29er category is stacked! Really can’t go wrong these days. I have an Intense Primer and it’s been my favorite bike I’ve owned so far.
Love the back and forth between you and Zac regarding each bike. And of course watching him ride!! More please :)
Rad, thanks dude!
Great review! Making a choice between these bikes has to be based on your preferred riding. If you ride more groomed trails with moderate chunk, go for the trail 429. If your riding consists of technical chunk and more black diamond gnar go for the switchblade. You really can't go wrong with either bike. The switchblade will definitely be more confidence inspiring. The trail 429 is a more xc/trail bike , that would feel at home on a gnarly XC race or light enduro. The switchblade could easily handle enduro. I have both bikes and sometimes forget which bike I'm on.
Nice, yeah... the Switchblade feels very composed at speed for a 135mm
Todd Spaanstra Im buying one of the two and am torn until I demo the Switchblade. Thanks for comment- helps me a lot understand the two.
Nice comparison. Really like the video edits. Hope they keep coming.
The direct comparison format really is fantastic. Your videos keep getting better. It would be cool to see you ride with a woman who can shred, and i bet it would be great exposure to a different market for Salt cycles as well.
haha Yeah, just need to get my wife a bike of her own!
Loving these videos man. Seriously great work. I look forward to every new one that comes out. Keep it up!
Thanks dude, that means a lot!
Definitely bookmarking this one for a JRA Cycles share in the next few days. We've got our demo next weekend. Can't wait!
Yeah, it's a super stiff bike dude! btw, did you replace your Altitude?
I haven't gotten chance to ride one yet but Brian from JRA is super-stoked on his. Nope, still on the Altitude. About to shoot a long term review of sorts.
I'm looking forward to the Demo next week, but I better no like the Trail 429 better then my Switchblade! After riding it watching MTB yumyum's and your review I was convinced on the Switchblade. I love it, but could I like the new trail 429 better. I hope not, the wife won't let me buy another one for about 10 years! :-)
Thom, excited to see your review... I'm picking up an Altitude here in about 3 weeks... can't wait! Been wanting one for awhile now!
Ray Meyers LOL. Im in the same dilemma. Im looking for next ride and after demoing Pivots at Dirtfest WV I am getting one. Only problem is I couldnt demo a switchblade except a few mins on my buds which was too small bc they didnt have my size. But loved loved loved the Trail 429. It was a rocket and tossable yet I threw it down some chunk and it just smiled. They’re such similar bikes- Switchblade is just a little more burly. So once I throw a leg over that one I’ll have my next ride. Now I just need to think about waiting til next year when hopefully the XTR 1x build in both has the new 51 tooth 1 x 12. Glad to hear you love your Switchblade, although it’s not making my decision easier!! 😃
That was quite awesome, Hearing Zaks take was really great. Worth the wait, I’ll check it out again I’m sure! Launch city thought he was gonna hit a tree....
haha the funny thing is, I always ask Zac to pull it back a bit so I can keep up with him hahaha he's a super talented bike rider and I really value his input... would be fun to get him in more of the videos!
That Trail 429 is going to give that switchblade a run for its money! Great job!!
man great head to head comparison. Loved both inputs during the ride. I just bought a Ibis Ripmo because of your previous review on it. How would you stack it up to the pivot 429 trail?
The Ripmo is very different from this Trail429.... this feels more like a race bike but with better geo and more plush... the Ripmo feels like a bigger bike, more stable and capable at speed
Last question. Just curious what you think comparing the Ripmo to the 2019 Stumpy you reviewed. TBH i was torn between the two after your reviews and am curious about which you liked better?
This is somewhat off-topic but I am in the market for the Giant Trance 2 and liked your review video. How does that bike compare to Switchblade? Thanks!
Good stuff as usual man! I love that manual of Zac's at the end! Can't wait to get my Trail here in a couple weeks
Dude, you'll love it!
Great job, Jason! Keep up the work and never give up! I actually like to see you riding and flowing through the trails! That's good! You should review more mountainbikes, especially the new Scott genius tuned and giant reign bikes!!!
Zac said he’d choose the 429 for Corner Canyon over other bikes, what say ye? In the market for a CC bike, definitely don’t charge like you two. Would the stumpy ST be comparable?
brnrms I’ve only tested the regular 2019 stumpy but I loved it too. Almost as much as this 429. The 429 won’t require a hard charging style, I think it’s a great choice for 90% of riders. Wish I could buy all the bikes. Honestly, it’s hard to find a bad bike these days, if you can find a deal on a stumpy ST, you’ll be more than happy on it as well!
I expect most of what you're feeling is the difference in the forks, 130mm vs 160mm. The shorter throw fork should feel more immediate, but the geo on those two bikes is nearly identical, actually favoring the Switchblade for playfulness with a slightly shorter chainstay than the Trail 429. Stick a lighter 130mm Pike on the Switchblade and I'd expect it would be dang close to neck & neck, but you'd also have to add a 2nd spacer to maintain the same head angle.
Great Review! I think that a lot of people are torn between these two bike categories (120mm and 140mm 29ers). Nice discussion of the differences. These bikes keep getting better and better.
Dude, Bill, totally. I'm always super impressed with this shorter mid travel 29ers.... very capable and a lot of fun on the more mellow tracks!
Great to hear/see a comparison of these two bike. I love my Mach 429 Trail. Been curious how the Switchblade compares. Love the new colors on the 2019 429 too. Apologies if I missed it, but were you running 29s or 27.5s?
29
TYVM for the comparo/baseline between the Switchblade n the Norco Range, it brought into focus the ride qualities of the SB a whole lot mo betta. Im a point n shoot (older) rider, demo'd both, n thought the same...now subscribed...ty again!
thank you for subscribing! enjoy!
Looking at the pivot 429 trail Enduro, pivot switchblade and the revel rascal. Trying to decide between a few different bikes. Zach didnt make it any easier. I'm looking for the one bike to ride local trails and race an enduro race once a month in texas and arkansas. Which would you choose if you can only choose one?
Great comparison review Jay. Now the Firebird 29 is out too. Your mission, should you choose to accept it......😜👍🏼
haha that's a big freaking bike dude! I'd like to give it a go though!
New subscriber!! Great review. I was thinking about Pivot 429 as my next bike. Thanks for the review
Celso, welcome! Yeah, the t429 is a blast!
Another excellent vid Jason! Me and my son are going to Dirt Fest put on my Dirt Rag magazine that's close to me. We are going to test ride some Pivot, Ibis, Yeti, and as many other bikes that we can. We don't have an LBS close for several of the brands but we're going to try and rock out in July!! I'm also going to make videos of the weekend too. Hope to be able to edit them ok. :)
StrikeForce MTB hey man. I was at that dirtfest. Live In DC but have a place out in Deep Creek Lake. Awesome time. I demoed the hell outta the Pivots too. So far between the SC Tallboy, Trek Fuel EX, Pivot Mach 5.5, SC Hightower LT, Scott Spark, and Pivot Trail 429, The Pivot Trail 429 is far and away my fav. I still have to try the Switchblade, new 2019 SC 5010 and Bronson. If you are ever in Deep Creek area and wanna ride hmu. There are some good trails there.
All these bikes seem to be the same and I think I could be happy with any of these bikes. It is all a matter of how much travel and plowing we want to do... Would love to see you do some some in depth Reviews of Forks, Shocks, Brakes, Drivevtrain, and especially Tires.
Yeah, totally. I take a lot of flack from people saying I always say possitive things about bike or that I like every bike... well, I for the most part do! Of all the bikes I've demo'd I could be just fine riding just about any one of them. There are things about each brand and bike that make them a little different and some bikes have a personality about them that draws me to them. Its a great time to be a mountain biker!
MYY, I have watched all your reviews. They are all a Great Source for any bike... it's because I watched them all, is why I am a little bored of them, however, for a new Rider, or someone considering a new Bike, your Reviews are a GREAT FIRST STOP shop. Would love to hear your input on components and accessories.... but they have to be real world reviews, and NOT Whore Kiss Ass Reviews like all the Bicycle Magazines do.
How’s the switchblade feel compared to your Sc Nomad 3??? You mention the switchblade likes to plow.
Thanks guys! Nice comparison. Really enjoyed that.
Yeah buddy!
Great video, I love my Pivot 429 trail. Could you recommend a good MTB instructor in the Utah area to improve my skills
Sam at Salt Cycles in Sandy Utah does private lessons... Just call the shop and they can get you in contact with him!
Jason, how do you and Zac think the trail 429 and the Switchblade stacks up against the Ibis Ripmo?
For the trails in these videos, I'd personally pick the Trail429 every time. The switchblade is more on par with the Ripmo but I like the Ripmo better... just more personality to it and very easy to ride! Of the 3, if I could only own one bike, I'd go with the Ripmo personally. Good luck!
MTB yumyum Good news that I've ordered the Ripmo then! 👍
YumYum is there a better long travel ride than the Switchblade?
YES, the Ibis Ripmo!!!
Nice review. I think I passed you and your wife yesterday, 7/1, on Happy Gilmore. You should try a Devinci Django 29. Same travels numbers as the 429 Trail, regular boost and it can take up to 2.6 tire rear. Split-pivot is very efficient on the climbs and it feels like it has way more squish than its numbers. They also just came out with the Troy 29 and it has the super boost plus spacing like the Pivots but with threaded bottom bracket. It will be interesting to see how this new "standard" develops and who adopts it. But, you should definitely throw your leg over some Devincis. I am very happy with my Django 29. I chose it after pretty much riding a ton of stuff including the Mach 429, SB, Tallboy, Ripley LS, Mojo 3 and Stumpy ST.
I thought I wanted a Switchblade, now I want the Trail 429.
haha, it's a good one for sure!
Great look at two sweet rides! Hate to hear you say the Switchblade felt muted; I'm a heavier rider (215 lbs) and I test road everything I could get my hands on before buying a switchblade. I never felt good pushing on a 34 like I do with a Pike or Lyrik, but gotta say the Fox 36 suits me so well and combined with the solid Switchblade frame and Reynolds/I9 wheels - perfect fit for bigger riders.
Chuck, I hope you watched further into the video where I talked to the fact of the Switchblade still being a lot of fun! It's an incredible bike and I can totally understand why you like yours! When compared with the Trail 429 it doesn't feel a bit muted, but it's not necessarily a bad attribute?! This also makes it more confidence inspiring, composed at higher speed through rough terrain and stable!
Being a bigger guy myself, I feel the switchblade is a much more composed bike. My trail 429 can feel very twitchy/nervous on more technical terrain. Don't get me wrong, the trail 429 is a great handling bike, but I'm with you on that 34.
Chuck clyde Thanks for your comment. Im buying one of the two and your comment helps a lot. Btw- I’m 215 too and it’s funny how in my other sport, Rugby, I’m not considered a big guy. But in mountain biking Im like fatty o’tub-a-lard!! Lol.
Nicely done!
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Responding to Zack's Shredding!!! LOL
Have you ridden that new trail in Corner Canyon off of Eagle Crest called Zooropa yet?
Nope... If I'm going to climb all the way over there I'm riding Levitate... I'll ride the new trail next spring when it's packed out and worth riding!
How tall is your friend? At 5'11, I usually ride a large but their new geo is quite long. The medium is like a smaller large and the large like an XL. Thoughts?
Zac is 5'10" and thought the medium with a 55mm stem was about spot on....
Funny I’m 5’10 and went up to XL and actually loved it. But my torso is longer than legs comparatively, so I like a longer reach with a short stem- 475-480 mm reach is my perfect range. When I buy I’ll chop 10 mm off stem (on the XL they put a 150 mm stem) and get a. 30 mm rise Renthal Fatbar and it will be perfect. But that’s just my take for a different perspective. Try to ride one first to see what works for you.
Another great video Jason! I too really like to hear Zacs perspective and how you bounce thoughts/opinions off each other. BTW what specific 429 build was this and did u have the stock build rims or the Reynolds upgrade? Always a joy to also watch zach ride and play. So cool to watch two good guys talking and at pg level so my kids can watch u as well. Keep it up and already looking forward ur next video. Would love for bnb u to review the intense sniper trail pro build if able. Thanks Dan
Dan, thank you! I'd like to get more videos produced like this one... comparison videos are super helpful and I love having Zac along for the ride! I didn't ride with the stock wheels and tires... I swapped out for a carbon/I9 wheelset with lighter weight DHR II 2.3 front tire and Forkeaster 2.35 rear tire..
@@mtbyumyum Jason, was this a fair comparison in terms of wheels, tires and fork throw and offset? Seems the angles are not identical but similar enough that I would not expect the two bikes to feel all that different, but both you and Zac seem to really prefer the 429 which makes sense if there's a significant difference in wheels & forks.
How can you pick one over the other, they're nearly identical geometry! Like maybe 1-2 millimeters difference here and there!
If anything I'd take the Switchblade for the additional travel.
Are both bikes running identical wheels & tires?
Damn, Zack is nice with it.
Yeah, really good rider!
Boost 157 scares some folks. But it is what makes those 29ers so great. The stiffness and matching front and rear wheel flex are what make them carve so well. Like a knife through water. I love my switchblade. Thanks for these videos, keep them coming please.
Yep! And peeps might as well get used to it.... 157 is here to stay. You'll see more brands adopt the spacing over the next few years. It's superior to boost and they should have just gone from 142 to 157 in the first place. It's that good!
Is there actually a big difference? I have a boost 29er and I never find rear end flex to be an issue, but my trails are rough and rocky and the exact opposite of fast and flowy so I'm not railing berms all the time.
It was the second thing in noticed on my very first ride. The first was the carbon handle bars. But rear end did not deflect off the big rocks. It just tracked straight through. I came from a 2014 chamber expert evo and smashed all my down hill pr's. Rocks and chunk I was afraid of on the camber, I did not even notice on the switchblade. I live in WA ride tiger mountain a lot. A black trail called off the grid, first run I beat my previous pr by 7 minutes.
To be fair you are changing a ton of things coming from that bike; the camber has an aluminum rear end that is a multi bar design, while the switchblade has a full carbon single piece rear triangle that should be inherently stiffer because of that. You are also going from 142 to 157.
All those things and the switchblade has breaks that work... The rear triangle is stiffer being carbon AND 157. So, the wheel is stiffer and then triangle. But yes, Big difference.
You should demo the 2019 pivot switchblade with the dpx2/x2 and a 44mm offset fork. Subtle changes but it makes a big difference
Nice, will do, thanks!
That wheelie at the end was sick!!! Great review! Now I am even more confused on which bike (I would like) to get....
I'm glad Pivot went all in on 157 spacing. No bike out of the many I demoed compared to the lateral stiffness of my Switchblade and I can tell it helps make the Trail 429 a ripper. For the trails I ride full of roots and rocks I have the right bike out of the two. Nice review but I would rather see bikes from different brands of the same category compared personally.
Great, thank you.... I'll try and get some other head-to-head videos out soon!
Do u think the new 429 climbs as well as the old 429 or even close
The same or maybe better.... it's a little heavier but I like the geometry better on this new bike and it feels stiffer and very efficient!
Did you run both 27.5 and 29 wheels on the 429? If so, which did you like better?
Good Review. Pivot Trail 429 is definitely a bike I could see owning as I am looking for a short travel razor sharp trail/climbing bike to go along with my Nomad3 and Scott Gambler 710 DH bike.
Dude, totally! If you already have N3 this would work great with that bike and give you a very different experience...
what are you guys riding here for pedals? and clips?
I use xtr spd's as do most of the people I ride with. When I ride flats I use Crampon Ultimate's
Hey great reviews. 1. how would you compare the 429 to the ripmo? I’m in western va (lots of punchy climbs and 2.5 min Rooty descendants) looking to chase PR’s for climbs and then the downs.
2. I hear everyone say that you have to ride the switchblade hard to get it to corner good, it the 429 the same? I’m not willing to push beyond how I’m feeling for any given day and want to have fun riding either slow or fast.
I’m currently on a 2017 trek fuel ex 9. Thanks.
How would you feel about the 429 on a trail like Zen or Suicidal Tendencies? Would it be enough bike?
Plenty of bike... Talk to one of the guys at Salt Cycles..
Which bike do you think is more stable at speed? 429 trail or giant trance
Close between then two, maybe the T429...
Any opinions on the new limited edition trail 429 enduro?
All the Pivot bikes look great!
If you were a bike salesman, you could make every mountain biker bankrupt from purchasing all the bikes you review. I LOVE this format. Great job
haha yeah, that would be a fun job!
Whats your opinion on Trail 429 vs Ripley vs Hightower? Thanks. Love the videos.
T429 and Ripley are on another level in terms of climbing, HT is more stable and composed descending at speed, T429 is the best of the 3 bikes mentioned. Climbs about as well as the Ripley and descends better. Is incredibly stiff feeling resulting in one of the most snappy and quick feeling 29ers available right now. If you can only own one bike and want a 29er, the Trail 429 will be tough to beat!
If you want to improve your turning technique just watch Zac in this video. Awesome.
100% he's got it dialed for sure!
how about a Pivot Trail 429 vs. Mach 5.5 comparison?? I keep going back and forth between the two for my next purchase.
Interesting, I hadn't even considered it as I though they were so different... If I have time in the next week I'll swing by the shop and grab a 5.5. Thanks for the suggestion!
Thanks! Would love to hear your opinion. I demo'd a 5.5 in Moab in April (and again recently on my home trails) and a Trail 429 at home as well. Honestly - I really liked them both. I think I'd want to size down the tires on the 5.5 from 2.6 and maybe a slightly more narrow rim than 35mm to make it feel snappier. Would you throw a 140 fork on the Trail 429 or leave it as is at 130?
If the T429 were my only bike, 140mm for sure. The big difference is the power and stability of the fox 36 on the 5.5 that makes it feel so different from the T429 also, the T429 just feels very stiff and much less forgiving than the 5.5 over similar terrain. I'd be interested to ride them back-to-back after thinking more about them. Thx!
I've been all over the map in shopping this summer. There are so many good bikes out there right now. The 5.5 was fun in Moab - great for that terrain and super fun descending/corners but it felt like a 'big' bike for me. I'm on a Mach 5.7 now and was hoping that the 5.5 would have that same playful feel. I've tried the Following MB in SLC (dug it) and depending on the way the wind is blowing eyeing up the Trail 429 (wow it's fast), Ibis 3 (rode in Tahoe and really liked it) HD4/Ripmo, Rocky Altitude (had 2 rocky's in the past), 5010 (prefer DW vs. VPP)... so yeah... all over the map.
haha, lot of good options out there... good luck dude!
Great review and comparisons! Love the side by side comps. For any who are in the Utah county area, Noble Cycling in Spanish Fork carries Pivot now. Come in and check them out!
Are the handle bars adjustable?
I think 15 mins is just about right.
haha, could have made it 30 min but that's a lot of me and Zac yacking... lol maybe I need to start a patreon channel for longer edit...
I love my Switchblade, love love love love love my Switchblade, but that 429 Trail seems like it was built for areas like SLC.
Still waiting on that Pivot Shuttle vid ;)
haha, yeah, the T429 is an excellent CC bike! Yeah, Shuttle video should be out shortly!
I was really hoping that you would test the SB 27+ since I already know how the 29 rides from your previous test rides
what size wheels did you have on it
who wins ? 429 or switchblade...??
for me, 429!
Those trails are pretty flow so good for short travel 29ers you guys tend to prefer but for the roots and rocks I ride I chose a Switchblade.
Which size wheels and which build did you get
XX1, 29er
No better sound than a screaming hub! Your booking there it brotha!!
Thanks dude!
Which Camera you use?
Did Zach buy your Trail 429 from you?
Awesome Guys!
I really wonder how mach 5.5 compares to this.
Portal Trail aint no joke. Definitely would lend itself to the switchblade instead of the 429.
Mach 429 or Trail 429? With Mach 429 being at a discount right now.
I'd go for the new Trail 429 despite the discounted Mach model... it's that much better!
MTB yumyum Thanks man. Great videos
@@mtbyumyum 4K better? :)
Just rode both of these bikes with 27.5+ setups (Rekons) at the demo in Telluride yesterday (DH runs only) and the Trail 429 was my preferred bike. Wish I'd had time to take them both on single track, but think the 429 still would have won that too (and wish I could have ridden the 429 setup 29er)
Nice, sounds fun! You'll have to get out on the 29er.... this is an excellent bike!
I wonder if the Switchblade needed a different fork offset to get snappier handling?
It's spec'd at 44mm offset so a 46 or 51 would make the steering and handling a little quicker.
Just by looking at the terrain you are riding I pick winner. There is no way to use switchblade potential here. In less demanding terrain less suspension is better. Too bad most people think they need 200mm travel for their local easy flowy trails.
Bingo!
MTB yum yum what are you riding yourself as your daily ?
Right now I have a Ibis HD4, Yeti SB100 (for sale) and I just bought the new Ibis Ripley... should be here next week! I'm also shopping for a long travel 29er.. think I might go with the Rocky Mountain Instinct BC Edition
MTB yumyum very cool - so you liked the Ripley that much - I’m between that & Sb 130 XL tho
14:14 Holy Crap Zack!
the dude is unreal... always fun to get him in the films! Thanks!
Are you running 29 or 27:5 on these bikes?
29 on both bikes.... I've ridden the Switchblade with 27.5+ and much prefer 29
Trail 429 or Yeti SB100??
Depends on your riding style and trail system. Between the 2 I'd go w the Pivot T429. If I could only own 1 bike at a time it would be a Rocky Mountain Instinct. Hands down best do everything bike available right now🤘
MTB yumyum I have a sb100 now you got me thinking bout instinct. So c70 or the c90 bc editions
Thanks for sharing the info on these bikes. I tested both the Switchblade and the 429 Trail and preferred the 429 Trail - a very precise bike and I set a PR for an ascent on this bike the first time I rode it. I described the bike as "a bike that made me smile".
Nice, glad you liked it!
Are you going to review Orbea Rallon?
yeah, if I can't track down a medium maybe I'll just ride Zac's large...
Sold my house, moving soon out of nazi germafornia to the free country of Idaho and have been wondering where to ride.
I'm finding your videos particularly tasty, Mr. YumYum
If you're in Idaho these trails are just a few hours south!
Jacob's Ladder looking so green! I want you to get a leg over a YT Jeffsy! They're amazing!
I think if you hit a rock garden or some proper big chunks n drops I think the Switchblade would probably be easier to handle , nice bike tho
Switchblade vs Rocky Mtn Instinct? Non BC version.
hum, they're different.... the Switchblade just feels like a bigger bike. It comes with a fox 36 fork and that alone makes a big difference.
im finding the 2018 fox 36 a little harsh ! have you found that? I heard the 2019 was better. But im jonesing to try the lyric.
Yep, I ride my 36 with only 49 PSI of course I'm only a hundred and forty pounds too
im about 180 and i run 57 lbs to make it feel supple, but then you are dealing with diving issues. Have you tried the latest lyric?
nope
ok we need a race .😃😃ZAC vs PARKER vs Yum Yum ... down Jacobs ,overtaking allowed yeyaaaaaaaa h
The rules are,,,,
Go fast ✅👍🏽
haha Zac would win, Parker would have rad style and I'd get it all on film!!!
MTB yumyum , haha , make it happen , “We’re going with Parker 😂😂👍🏽Sorry Zac , but Parker is our favourite rider , obviously after J haha 👍🏽👍🏽 I wanna see Parker on the Nomad N4 , just to get his views
I’ve had mine for a while now and you know what , I think the Nomad is a bike for people that are kinda like not Pro but for riders that push the limits and past , I’m a trail rider so it’s definitely not for me , I DO like it though it’s super fast downhill 😃😃✅
Not sold on Super Boost and no frame only option
Frame only would be nice I guess but honestly, most people buy complete bikes. 157mm rear ends are here to stay my friend! It's better, makes more sense with the overall direction the industry is going and honestly, I just think it's a matter of time till the rest of the industries moves that direct... whether it's now or a few years from now, it will be annoying and frustrating but it will happen and after a year or two it will be like nothing ever happened.
Scott I agree with Jason on Superboost. Ride it and see. I couldn’t believe how it made that rear feel. Awesome. Actually the one I don’t see staying around is boost. Just have regular for light cc bikes and go to super for everything else. Its not like its not already around- the 157 size comes from downhillers.
Cool video
you gotta get your hands on a firebird 29!!!
J you ride like the World Cup DH guys nice job guys 👍🏽👍🏽🌲🌲🌳🤙🏿🤙🏿
Sub from Wales UK ;0)
BUT! What about the 429 vs your "old" Instinct? (I like these back to backs)
That could be a cool video!
Do you think the Instinct is kind of in-between the blade and the 429? Any quick, significant differences between the two?
nice