Litespeed, the esteemed Chattanooga-based manufacturer renowned for its handcrafted titanium frames, has unveiled the Pisgah—a hardtail mountain bike engineered for aggressive trail riding. This model signifies a departure from Litespeed’s previous cross-country-oriented Pisgah, embracing the rugged terrain of the Pisgah National Forest, known for its challenging, rocky, and root-laden trails. (litespeed.com)
Frame Design
The Pisgah’s frame showcases advanced titanium tube shaping and a unique rear-end design centered around a Tubular Yoke, enhancing strength and stiffness where it matters most. Litespeed introduces the Superform X titanium tubeset, featuring variable wall thicknesses and custom-formed, cold-worked 3D shapes to achieve optimal strength, flex, and stiffness. The seat tube passes through the ovalized Superform top tube, reducing wall thickness by 30% while increasing joint strength, effectively resisting vertical and lateral loads even before welding. The Tubular Titanium Yoke significantly widens the seatstay stance, increasing lateral stiffness without compromising the compliant ride quality characteristic of titanium. Additionally, the frame accommodates tires up to 29″ x 2.6″. (litespeed.com)
Geometry
Designed for a 150mm fork and 29″ wheels, the Pisgah’s geometry is tailored for aggressive trail riding. The head tube angle ranges from 64° on the XS frame to 65° on the XL, with a consistent 445mm chainstay length across all sizes. The sliding dropout upgrade allows riders to fine-tune the chainstay length to their preference. (litespeed.com)
Drivetrain Compatibility
The Pisgah features a Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) interface, ensuring compatibility with various drivetrain setups. Riders can opt for Litespeed’s sliding titanium dropouts to adjust the chainstay length or configure a singlespeed setup. (litespeed.com)
Builds, Pricing, and Availability
Handcrafted in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Pisgah is available in a singlespeed configuration with the sliding dropout. The base build starts at $6,999, featuring Shimano XT Di2, a Fox 36 Factory Grip X fork, and Industry Nine 1/1 Sector V2 Alloy wheels. Customization options include finishes like Satin Ti and Bright Brushed Ti, with various logo colors available for an additional fee. Upgrades encompass drivetrain, wheels, fork, tires, dropper, saddle, stem, handlebar, and grips. The Pisgah is available to order now through the Litespeed website. (litespeed.com)
Litespeed’s Pisgah hardtail mountain bike combines advanced titanium engineering with aggressive trail geometry, offering riders a durable and responsive bike capable of tackling challenging terrains.