Pivot unveils full carbon fat bike, the LES Fat
Originally posted on January 13, 2015 at 18:10 pm
While Pivot is perhaps best known for its high-performance suspension bikes like the new Mach 429SL, it is expanding its lineup into the fat tire realm with the launch of the new LES Fat model.
Because the full-carbon frame uses an arching dropout system like to the one found on the LES hardtail, the LES Fat can accommodate all manner of “fat” tires, from 26×4.8 to 29×3 and the emerging 27.5+ sizes. Because of its adjustability, it can retain an ideal geometry, Pivot says, despite the wide variation in bottom bracket height that the different wheels would normally create. The rider can also adjust the ride characteristics by using it to fine-tine chainstay length from 17.2 inches to 17.76 inches. The rear axle is spaced at 197mm with a 12mm thru axle.
Because the height of the front end can vary as well, Pivot includes an 18mm external headset cup that can be used to adjust the front end height based on wheel choice and rider preference, whether it’s with a RockShox Bluto fork or the stock, full-carbon fork. The press fit bottom bracket has a 15mm smaller Q-factor than most fat bikes, Pivot says, thanks to the special E-Thirteen crankset that is compatible with both single and double-chainring setups.
Gallery
Use the magnifying glass at the bottom right to see full-size images
[wonderplugin_gallery id=”14″]
The frame uses a similar design as Pivot’s other new mountain bikes, with a smart cable port system that can cleanly fit any type of cable needs, including an internally-routed dropper seatpost. While it may seem to fall at the sporty end of the spectrum, it has three sets of bottle cages and rear rack mounts to handle any adventure.
There are three sizes available and prices start at $2,599 for the frame/fork/headset. A complete bike with Sram XO1 and the carbon fork will set you back $4,699. Pivot says they expect the bikes to begin shipping in about two weeks.
Want to try one for yourself? Chances are the new LES Fat will make an appearance at Dirt Rag’s Dirt Fest presented by Pivot Cycles, so we hope you can join us.