When we're staring down a steep trail full of roots, rocks, and drops, we're glad we have the Pivot Firebird to tackle the terrain with speed and prowess. Designed for elite enduro racing, the Firebird is what we ride on the most difficult trails, as it converts our nervous energy into confidence and control as we race our way down the mountain. Though downhill terrain is the Firebird's forte, the DW-Link suspension platform and Pivot's legendary carbon frame make for an efficient bike that can be pedaled all day in the backcountry, keeping up with shorter travel trail bikes on the climbs, and blowing them away on the descents. Equipped with 165mm of rear travel, a 170mm FOX 38, and a slack 64-degree head tube, it's pretty clear the Firebird's intentions are to get down the mountain as fast as possible. The DW-Link rear suspension uses a longer link that's inspired by the Pivot Phoenix downhill bike, maximizing the Firebird's rearward axle path to make quick work of square-edged bumps and softening the blow of repeated chunky hits. Greater control means greater speed, and it's certainly noticeable aboard the Firebird. Pivot offers a variety of build kits to meet different price levels, but all of them are capable of lining up on race day in the hunt for the podium. This Race XT build kit is a more cost-effective option than the Pro or Team-level build kits, but comes with a host of trustworthy components like a FOX Performance 38 fork, Performance Float X shock, Shimano XT/SLX drivetrain, and DT Swiss M1900 wheels. Aggressive Maxxis EXO tires give us an abundance of grip and puncture protection, while the Shimano XT 4-piston brakes handle our stopping duties with plenty of bite for any trail. *Due to a high demand in the global supply chain and bike industry since the start of the pandemic, material weight and exact components are subject to change. We are working diligently to keep tech specs updated, and any adjustments will be of equal or better spec leve...