Liv Cycling enters 29er arena with Pique bike line

NEWBURY PARK, Calif. (BRAIN) — Adapting the 29-inch wheel platform to smaller riders can be a challenge, so much so that most manufacturers spec' 27.5-inch wheels on size small frames.

But not Liv Cycling, a woman's-only brand from Giant since 2015 that's entering the 29er world for the first time. Liv will debut the full-suspension carbon Pique Advanced Pro and the aluminum Pique in September. The frames will be manufactured in Taiwan and offered in sizes extra small to large.

Designed to take advantage of the increased roll-over ability and speed of the 29er wheel to benefit cross-country and endurance riders, the bikes feature 100mm front and rear suspension developed through Liv's 3F design technology. Using data points about women's anatomy, sizing variations and muscle energy, the Maestro suspension was custom tuned and later refined by Liv racing's Kaysee Armstrong.

"Our goal was to find the right geometry and fit so that women can ride this bike without sacrificing stiffness or weight for XC racing," said Liv Global Marketing Manager Brook Hopper. "And, there is just enough space in the frame design for a water bottle. Based on the women's-specific geometry to achieve best results, we approached all the spaces and shapes of the frame with sophisticated tubing designs."

Digital marketing efforts have started with Liv Ambassador Riley Miller, 14, filmed putting the Pique through its paces.

"The piece is aimed at bringing the viewer along with Riley, witnessing her speed and control on the trail — only to realize her youth and size at the very end of the segment — challenging the perception that 29-inch wheel bikes don't fit small-statured women," Hopper said.

The Pique series will be available in three component spec' lines each for the Advanced Pro and base Pique with a price range of $2,050-$12,300.