Pinarello's latest drop bar mountain bike has the cycling world buzzing, and for good reason! It's a bold move that could hint at a new direction for Tom Pidcock's gravel ambitions. But is it a game-changer or just another niche bike?
In the world of road race bikes, innovation often takes a backseat to proven formulas. The best road bikes typically adhere to a strict set of design principles, leaving little room for experimentation. But the gravel scene is a different beast altogether. It's a playground where manufacturers can let their creativity run wild, catering to diverse terrains and riding styles.
Enter Pinarello's new drop bar MTB, which shares its DNA with the brand's Dogma XC hardtail mountain bike. This bike, developed with and for the legendary Tom Pidcock, boasts a 67.75-degree head angle and 101mm trail, mirroring the Dogma XC. The frame's resemblance to the Dogma X is striking, and it's ready for action with a dropper seatpost.
But here's where it gets interesting: the frame accommodates a 50mm tire clearance and is suspension fork compatible, sporting a Fox 32 Float Kashima-coated 100mm travel fork. This is a significant upgrade from the 30-40mm travel found on most suspension-equipped gravel bikes. The asymmetrical seat stays are designed to handle the intense forces of aggressive gravel riding, and the eye-catching bottom bracket shell cutout, borrowed from the Dogma XC, adds a touch of flair.
Now, suspension fork-equipped gravel bikes aren't new. We've seen them conquer races like Leadville, but Pinarello's drop bar MTB takes things a step further. It's a fusion of road and MTB, featuring a MOST Talon Ultra Light carbon fiber handlebar, typically found on the Dogma F road bike. The drivetrain is pure MTB, with a SRAM XX SL Eagle 1X AXS groupset and aero Garbaruk chainring. The cassette offers a wide range with 10-52T, and chainrings come in 32-28 tooth sizes. The DT Swiss XRC 1200 wheels are MTB-specific, ensuring a smooth ride on any terrain.
The Medium frame weighs in at a claimed 9.04Kg, and it will be available in four sizes and one color. But the real question is, who is this bike for?
While Pinarello hasn't explicitly stated it, it's hard to ignore the similarities between the Grevil MX frame and the Dogma X hardtail. The geometry, including reach and stack, is identical. The Dogma XC, developed with Pidcock, is a testament to his Olympic XC MTB champion status. With his team's recent switch to Pinarello, he's back on the brand's road bikes, too.
This commercial release is more than just a one-off pro bike. It's a specific, tailored machine that raises questions about Pidcock's upcoming race plans. Could he be eyeing a gravel or MTB event that demands this unique setup?
After some digging, it appears this bike is designed with Pinarello's gravel ambassadors in mind. Riders like Ramon Sinkeldam might use it to tackle races like Unbound Gravel or the sandy races in the Benelux region. The Leadville 100, with its history of riders using XC MTB bikes with drop handlebars, seems like the perfect fit for this bike.
Pidcock's participation in the Gravel Worlds and Gravel Burn stage race in South Africa might have ignited his passion for off-road racing. If he competes at Leadville this year, this Pinarello could be his secret weapon. But is this bike a must-have for gravel enthusiasts, or is it a niche machine for a select few?
Tom, our resident tech expert at Cyclingnews, has a unique perspective. With a background in English Literature and over a decade as a qualified mechanic, he's a cycling industry veteran. His hands-on experience and racing background make him the perfect judge of any bike's capabilities. Having interviewed cycling legends and covered countless launches, Tom's insights are invaluable. So, what's his take on this Pinarello drop bar MTB? Is it a must-have or a niche novelty? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
