I don't believe for a moment that this was a mistake. Pole absolutely knew the high-profile review destination of this bike. I believe there was some weight or handling characteristic they were seeking to improve their score on using this "prototype" part. Cheating and busted!
Even worse, however, is their explanation which sounds phony as hell and then spins a great portion of the the blame on Pinkbike for creating "scandal". It would have been far better in my eyes for them to own up to their deceit and apologize 100%. Instead, their dishonest response is juvenile and tasteless and convinces me to never buy from them.

 What were they thinking? All bottom out energy is going through that thin little area.

 Whoop there it is