The Deviate Highlander 2: A Trail Blazer

The Deviate Highlander 2 is a bike that turns heads — and not just because of its high-pivot suspension design. It’s a purpose-built machine that blends modern trail geometry with a capable and confidence-inspiring setup. This makes it ideal for riders who want to push boundaries on both natural trails and bike park descents. In this build, we’ve paired the Highlander 2 frame with components chosen for performance, reliability, and ride feel. Let’s dive into the details.

Exploring the Deviate Highlander 2 Frame

At the heart of this build is the Highlander 2— Deviate's flagship high-pivot trail bike. This model features 145mm of rear travel paired with space for a 160mm fork. The result? A planted yet playful ride. The high-pivot design enhances traction and minimizes pedal kickback, especially on rough terrain. It's built for aggressive trail riding and enduro adventures. With this custom component setup, it’s ready for anything the trail throws at it.

Suspension: Controlled and Capable

Rear Shock: Öhlins TTX Air

The Öhlins TTX Air is known for its composure and adjustability. It delivers plush mid-stroke support and excellent small bump sensitivity. This is ideal for riders who want the feel of a coil with the weight savings of air.

Fork: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate

The RockShox Lyrik Ultimate features 160mm of travel with the Charger 2.1 damper. It offers unmatched small bump compliance and the ability to handle big hits smoothly. This fork is stiff, designed for pushing hard through technical trails.

Ohlins TTX Air - 145 mm

Wheels, Tyres & Protection

Rims: SILT AM Alloy Rims

These rims are both durable and lightweight, making them a solid choice for aggressive trail riding.

Tyres: Vee Tyres

The Vee Tyres offer reliable grip in various conditions. Plus, they have strong sidewalls that boost cornering confidence.

Inserts: Rimpact

For rim protection, Rimpact inserts allow for lower tyre pressures without the risk of pinch flats or rim damage. This means you can ride with confidence no matter the terrain.

Cockpit: Precision Meets Comfort

Handlebars: Burgtec Carbon Bars

Lightweight and responsive, these bars provide just the right amount of flex to absorb rough terrain's sting.

Stem: Burgtec Enduro Stem

This short and stout stem enhances steering feel, allowing for quick and accurate handling.

Grips: Rev Suspension Grips

Designed to reduce vibration and hand fatigue, these grips are perfect for long trail days.

Braking: Serious Stopping Power

The Magura MT5 brakes with four-piston calipers offer outstanding braking power and modulation. This is crucial for handling technical, steep terrain, giving riders the confidence to tackle challenging descents.

Drivetrain: Shimano Reliability with a Burgtec Touch

Cranks: Shimano XT

The Shimano XT cranks are bombproof and efficient, making them a trusted choice for serious riders.

Chainring: Burgtec 32T Narrow-Wide

This straightforward and effective chainring ensures clean chain retention, preventing drops.

Bottom Bracket: Hope

Made in the UK, the Hope bottom bracket is smooth and built to last.

Rear Mech: Shimano SLX

With crisp, reliable shifting and excellent chain management, the Shimano SLX rear mech keeps you moving smoothly.

Shifter: Shimano XT

Clean shifts under pressure are essential. The Shimano XT shifter provides performance where it matters most.

Pedals: Built to Send

Crankbrothers Mallet DH

A favorite among gravity riders for good reason, the Crankbrothers Mallet DH offers a wide platform, positive engagement, and excellent mud clearance.

Crank Brothers Mallet DH

Dropper & Saddle: Comfort and Control

Dropper Post: OneUp V2

This class-leading dropper post features a short stack height. It's one of the most popular options among riders for good reason.

Saddle: Charge Spoon

Comfortable and affordable, the Charge Spoon saddle is well-proven, making it a favorite for long trail days.

Final Thoughts: Balanced, Aggressive, and Trail-Ready

This Deviate Highlander 2 build is more than the sum of its parts. It’s a refined, capable machine designed to inspire confidence on steep descents. Riders can power through technical terrain and climb efficiently back to the top. Every component has been selected to balance weight, durability, and trail feel.

Consider this bike if you’re ready to take your trail riding to new levels of adventure and excitement. Whether navigating challenging trails or charging through bike parks, the Highlander 2 promises to deliver an exhilarating experience.