In the world of XC racing, sometimes less is still more. A hardtail frame is still often the tool of choice thanks to their instant power transfer and inherent efficiency. And while XC race rigs are getting more capable than ever, weight is still an important factor if you’re gunning for the top spot on the podium. These are all good reasons to consider the newest bike from Pivot, the LES SL.
Checking in at 300g lighter than its predecessor, the LES SL is also already completely race proven. Whether that’s Chloe Woodruff’s win at the XC and short track race at the national championships, Keegan Swenson’s win at the Whiskey Off-Road, or Rose Grant’s win at the Leadville 100 (just to name a few), the LES SL already has quite the race pedigree under the Stan’s Pivot Pro race team.
Essentially a stripped down, race focused revision of the current LES, the LES SL is all about going fast. Utilizing a new carbon dropout (no more Swinger II dropout for single speed use), integrated headset, and revised carbon layup, the LES SL has lost some impressive weight. Not surprisingly, Pivot says this is the lightest hardtail frame they’ve ever produced – or 2.3lbs/1045g for a medium frame.
The frame uses the same BB92 bottom bracket as the current LES and includes the Pivot Cable Port system with Di2 battery integration under the BB. Dropouts are spaced at 148 x 12mm, and the integrated headset uses 45/45° ACB bearings for the standard 1.5 to 1.125″ tapered steerer.
Even though 1x drivetrains are dominating mountain bike sales, the frame will still be Shimano Side Swing e-type front derailleur compatible if you need a double. For 1x drivetrains, you’re looking at a maximum chainring size of 36t.
The rear brake uses a 160mm post mount which can be adapted up to 180mm max. if you need more braking power.
Built with 100mm travel suspension forks with a 44mm offset, the frames look to have the same geometry as current LES frames with 29″ wheels. Note that unlike the current LES, this frame is only compatible with 29″ wheels and tires, and will not work with 27.5+. As such, the frame will clear up to a 29 x 2.3″ tire on a 28mm inner width rim. Complete bikes will include a 100mm travel suspension fork, but over-forkers will be able to run up to a 130mm travel fork if you must. None of the complete builds include a dropper post, but if you want to add one, the frame is fully dropper compatible with internal routing and a 30.9mm seat post.
Offered in Blue and Stealth color options, the LES SL will be sold as a frame ($2,099), frameset ($3,099 with Fox 32 SC 100 Kashima), or complete builds ranging from $3,799 to $8,199. That top tier price lands you a SRAM XX1 AXS build with carbon wheels, while the entry price includes the new Shimano XT group.
