REVIEW - Devinci Chainsaw | A Bike That Inspires Progression 10

Released at the beginning of April, the Devinci Chainsaw was created to honor the legacy of Steve Smith by delivering riders a highly-capable and bombproof freeride bike with affordable build kits. Just like Steve inspired a generation of riders and racers to let off the brakes and haul ass, the Chainsaw carries the same aura— inspiring progression and providing confidence in challenging moments. With a bottomless suspension design and aggressively slack geometry that devours gnarly terrain, the past few months have been exhilarating as we've harnessed Stevie's 'send-it' mentality to put the Chainsaw through its paces. 

Highlights

• 6061-T6 aluminum frame made in Canada
• 29-inch (tested) or mixed wheel configuration
• Enduro configuration (tested): 170mm of rear wheel travel // 170mm fork travel 
• Downhill configuration: 170mm of rear wheel travel // 190mm fork travel
• Split Pivot high-pivot suspension design
• Size-specific chainstay lengths
• 62.1/62.9-degree head tube angle
• Internal cable routing
• 12x157mm super boost rear hub spacing
• Universal derailleur hanger
• Threaded bottom bracket
• 2-bolt ISCG 05 chain guide mount
• Sizes: S-XL
• MSRP: $4,699 USD (Chainsaw GX 12S Build) 

Overview

Devinci's goal with the Chainsaw was to create a versatile long travel bike that would honor Stevie's legacy by inspiring more people to get into gravity mountain biking. The naming of the bike was obviously a delicate topic, and Devinci made sure they had the blessing of Stevie's mom, Tianna, during development. A grand homage to an individual who did so much for the sport, Devinci will donate a percent of all Chainsaw sales annually to the Stevie Smith Legacy Foundation, ensuring the continued growth of up-and-coming Canadian gravity riders. 

A bike that dons such a nickname better be ready to take on anything. The 6061-T6 aluminum frame is made in Devinci's Canadian factory and offers maximum durability, stiffness, and a competitive strength-to-weight ratio. It also comes with a lifetime warranty. The Chainsaw uses Devinci's high pivot iteration of their Split-Pivot suspension design (same as their Spartan enduro bike) that separates acceleration and braking forces, keeping the suspension active under braking. The design is quite progressive and functions well with a coil shock (as seen on the GX DH build below). Aesthetically, the frame design is unique with its forward-leaning shock and rocker link, tucked-up chain stays, and in-line top tube and seat stays. During testing, everyone wanted to unload their opinions about the frame upon our uninterested ears.

Undeniably an eye-catching-looking bike, we'll save you our thoughts, but we are curious to hear what people think in the comments! However, one aspect of the frame worth mentioning is the rocker link's width and relatively high placement. The highest pivot occasionally contacted the inside of our knee, especially climbing. We adjusted to a wider stance on our pedals to limit contact, but if you ride with your legs tight to your frame/feet tight to your cranks (as we do), you'll likely notice the link against your legs from time to time. 

The frame is compatible with a longer stroke shock, allowing riders to jump from a 225x70mm to a 225x75mm shock to increase rear travel to 180 mm. To compensate for the rearward axle path of the design, there is an idler pulley hidden inside a thermoplastic cover to protect it from the elements and provide chain retention. The idler uses a low-friction bearing to maximize pedaling efficiency, and all frame pivots use long-lasting Enduro double-lip sealed bearings. Final frame details include internal cable routing, a water bottle mount inside the downtube, and 157mm Super Boost rear hub spacing.

Build Kits

Devinci labels the Chainsaw as a DH or Enduro bike, depending on the build. However, the way we see it, the Chainsaw sports a blended DNA that's equal parts downhill, enduro, and freeride. Devinci intentionally offers various configuration possibilities so riders can pick a setup that matches their riding style best. The Chainsaw comes in three build kits or as a frame only. Of those three builds, two feature 170mm single crown forks with 12-speed drivetrains, a dropper post, and dual 29-inch wheels, while one uses a 190mm dual crown fork with a 7-speed drivetrain and a mixed wheel setup. A flip chip in the lower shock eyelet (mostly) preserves the geometry with either rear-wheel size, and both configurations provide 170mm of rear-wheel travel. Of course, different builds are possible outside of what Devinci sells, such as a dual 29-inch downhill bike or a bike park steed with mixed wheels, a single crown fork, and downhill gearing. Beyond adaptability, offering riders cost-effective and budget-friendly build kits was a priority. Riders only need $3,899 to get on the SX 12S build, while the GX DH build is the most expensive at $4,999.

We tested the mid-tier GX 12S build that retails for $4,699 USD. We will dive into component performance below, but we applaud Devinci for not cutting corners on spec to achieve low prices. Each build is made up of quality components that, right out of the box, will complement the go-huck-yourself capabilities of the Chainsaw. 

Geometry

The Chainsaw features a similar geometry package to Devinci's Spartan but employs a slacker head tube, steeper seat tube, and slightly longer front centers. The 62.9-degree head tube angle helps make tackling near-vertical descents less death-defying, while a ~79-degree effective seat tube angle (size large) allows the Chainsaw to be still pedaled uphill. The steep seat tube also counteracts the long reaches when climbing, and we found ourselves centered over the bike climbing. While descending, the 494mm reach was spacious but appropriate. 

Each size boasts its own chain stay length that increases in 5mm increments, starting at 425mm on a small and going up to 440mm on a size X-large. We tested a size large with a 435mm rear center. While this might sound short, remember, that's a static measurement, and the rearward axle path of the Split Pivot design gives the Chainsaw a longer rear center most of the time. 

The numbers that make up the Chainsaw are spot-on for a long-travel, gravity-focused bike—however, the geometry fringes on being too aggressive for 'enduro' when discussing climbing ability. Technically, any bicycle can be pedaled uphill with enough determination and watt output. It's possible to grind your way uphill on the Chainsaw, but the slack head angle and low, 342mm bottom bracket height, make climbing a slow and taxing endeavor. The head angle combined with a 170mm fork causes a lot of wheel flop in tight, tricky sections, and the low bottom bracket leads to constant pedal strikes if you aren't conscious of your pedal timing. We don't expect many riders to pick up the Chainsaw to go tackle big climbs or adventures, but it's something to be aware of if the Chainsaw will be your daily drive and you plan to self-shuttle yourself. 

On The Trail

Testing the Chainsaw in San Diego, California, didn't allow me to see how the bike handles rock slabs, big booters, or head-high skinnies of B.C., but I did sample some classic high-speed, rocky, and fast trails. And for good measure, I found some steep and ugly trails with some questionable alternate lines. 

Every time I took the bike out to ride, seeing 'Chainsaw' written on the top tube made me ride with just a bit more intensity. Stevie Smith's personality and racing career had a lasting impression on my life, and I felt obligated to toss caution to the wind, let off the brakes, and have some fun, just like Stevie would.  

Setup was a breeze outside of fussing around with my cockpit height for the first few rides. The stock RaceFace handlebar and stem combo was too low (20mm) and short (40mm), hindering my ability to get enough weight over the far-out front axle. I eventually settled on a 30mm rise handlebar with less back sweep and a 50mm stem that gave me a balanced riding position to tackle the moderately steep trails at my disposal. The stock stem length and setback riding position would have been fine if I was riding steeper terrain. I also swapped out the front tire (and wheel because I didn't feel like changing tires) to a Maxxis Assegai in their MaxxGripp compound, as I don't fancy the Maxxis Minion DHF mounted up front or the less-grippy MaxxTerra compound. 

Descending Performance

The Chainsaw proved to me that sometimes expectations do meet reality, as it crushed every descent with outstanding poise. Even thru the most disturbing rock gardens and high-speed compressions, the bike provided the utmost control and refused to be unsettled. Finding the limit of the Chainsaw requires either really demanding terrain or fearless riding, but for regular riders like myself, it offered a high degree of safety and confidence to attack descents as I pleased. 

With that said, the Chainsaw would not be my next downhill race bike simply because the stability it provides doesn't translate to overall speed. As most racers can attest, smooth and composed often isn't the fastest setup. I had no problem pushing a quick pace on the Chainsaw, and if I was planning to just sign up for some low-stress summer downhill racers to get my adrenaline pumping, the Chainsaw would be a totally worthwhile tool for the job. But if I was purely looking to gain a competitive edge to lace together race runs, I'd reach for a dedicated downhill bike developed for racing. 

When trail speeds dropped and extra input was required to navigate technical sections, I was impressed by the Chainsaw's responsiveness. It was still a big bike to move around, but considering the size large I tested is nearing X-large territory, I rarely struggled to place the bike exactly where I wanted. However, I wouldn't exactly label Chainsaw as playful or nimble. It's still a 170mm enduro/downhill bike, and even though I was able to control the bike how I wanted in rough sections, the Chainsaw was more reluctant to dice up corners or get sideways off jumps. This didn't bother me for the fast and chunky trails I rode, but I would be curious to take the Chainsaw to a bike park setup with mixed wheels and see how its personality evolves/ comes to life. 

Rear Suspension Performance

While the Chainsaw remained controlled through rough sections partially due to its geometry package, its high-pivot Split-Pivot suspension design did most of the heavy lifting. A very progressive design with a ton of support deep in the travel, the bike gobbled up flat landings and harsh compressions.

Every trail has that one section or feature that forces you to grit your teeth, hold on tight, and brace for impact. The Chainsaw lived for those moments. I could attack descents with a tenacity similar to a downhill bike and was rewarded with unwavering control and support. The progressiveness of the suspension also kept the Chainsaw higher in its travel, which, when paired with a tad less rebound damping, kept the bike from feeling lethargic. This was most appreciated on smooth, flat trails when pumping the bike was required to maintain speed.  

Through sections with constant, moderate compressions, the Chainsaw offered a calm and smooth ride with zero feedback felt through my feet. I rode some properly jacked-up trails without fear of ever blowing a foot off my pedals. You've got to love rearward axle paths! Watching some slow-mo iPhone clips, it's impressive how glued to the ground the rear wheel remains through impacts.

If I didn't enjoy the Chainsaw's ride quality enough, the idler and chainstay protector eliminated any chain slap and provided a silent ride. Devinci has nailed the balance of support, axle growth, and suppleness with the Chainsaw, creating a bike that remains balanced through its stroke, offers great ground feel and traction, and can withstand some big hits.

Climbing Performance

My first climb on the Chainsaw was a shock to the system coming off Specialized's latest Levo SL that I rode primarily without assistance (the plight of not having any friends who own an e-bike). Even though the Chainsaw was a few pounds lighter, the difference in travel amount and geometry made it feel like I was dragging an anchor uphill. I could still complete my usual test loops, but I had to work for it, and my average speed was heavily penalized. As mentioned above, the Chainsaw puts all its eggs in the 'descent' basket, squeaking by with just enough pedalability to eventually land you back at the top of the descents. Get ready to wear out your granny gears! 

Thankfully, the steep seat angle did create a forward pedaling position that made creeping up climbs comfortable. The idler pulley was also smooth and silent throughout testing, making it difficult to determine if it increased drag, which can't be said for all high-pivot bikes. We did rotate the e*thirteen LG1 guide back a few degrees to relax chain tension and improve drivetrain efficiency, and drag could be further improved by installing a less aggressive guide, like MRP's SXg. 

Overall, the Chainsaw might be a slow-moving beast at times, but it still gets the job done. Just remember: you are pedaling a 170mm travel bike with a 62.9-degree head tube angle, so keep your expectations within reason. 

Build Kit

Delivering riders a bike that fosters progression is only beneficial if the barrier to entry is within reason. The three Chainsaw build kits are well within the realm of 'reasonable' by today's mountain bike prices. Yes, you can find similar bikes cheaper, but $4,699 for the GX build we tested is plenty fair.

The RockShox Zeb Rush RC fork and Super Deluxe R shock were the standout performers of the GX build kit. Testing a bike with simpler dampers and fewer external adjustments is always risky, as finding an ideal setup or isolating poor bike performance from poor suspension performance can become tricky. Luckily, I had no issues landing on a solid setup for both dampers. The forks' low-speed compression swing adjustment was functional, and I ran it about ⅔ open with rebound on the quicker side. The shock only had rebound damping, which forced me to rely on the progressivity of the Chainsaw rather than leaning on compression adjustments for support. 

The base-model Zeb and Rush RC damper rekindled my faith in entry-level forks. I didn't have to stuff it full of bottomless tokens to obtain adequate mid-stroke support, and the smoothness off the top was leaps and bounds above similar FOX and Marzochhi forks I've ridden lately. The chassis was stiff but didn't beat me up, and I was able to push the Chainsaw as hard as I pleased, knowing the fork would provide support and control. 

The rest of the build featured parts that will surely stand up to plenty of abuse. SRAM's GX drivetrain is a well-known workhorse groupset that didn't have any issues providing crips or consistent shifts (even while being run through an idler). The G2 RE brakes are a less common spec but combine the G2 R lever with a Code-like, 4-piston caliper. Designed for e-bikes, the lever lacks any pad contact adjustments and has a flimsier feel than the higher-end RSC models. Still, the system delivered plenty of stopping power and the familiar modulation associated with SRAM brakes. 

What's The Bottom Line?

Devinci's Chainsaw properly honors the legacy of Steve Smith by giving riders a gravity-focused bike that facilitates riding aggressively, pushing your abilities, and having fun ripping downhill. Perfect for experienced or new riders alike, the Chainsaw offers the stability and support required to tackle gnarly trails. And for those so compelled, it's capable of pedaling uphill; just be ready to work for it. With quality build kits and a bombproof aluminum frame, the Chainsaw is ready to take on bike park laps, progressive freeriding, or casual downhill racing. 

For more information on the Chainsaw, please visit devinci.com.

View key specs, compare bikes, and rate the new Devinci Chainsaw in the Vital MTB Product Guide.

About The Tester

Jason Schroeder - Age: 28 // Years Riding MTB: 16 // Height: 6' (1.8m) // Weight: 175-pounds (79.3kg)

A once-upon-a-time World Cup downhill racer turned desk jockey, Jason has spent years within the bicycle industry from both sides of the tape. A fan of all-day adventures in the saddle or flowing around a bowl at the skatepark, he doesn't discriminate from any form of two-wheeled riding. A SoCal native who doesn't spend too much time in any single place, you can find Jason camped out in his van most weekends somewhere on the West Coast.