Strengths: I've had this bike for about a week now and its done pretty well...for a 29er it turns like a champ but still having some struggles with swithbacks. The geometry design is one of my favorite features on the bike, and the Suntour XCR 29er fork has served its purpose well. I live in Des Moines, so I'm riding in the woods, etc
Weaknesses: Components could have been better, would trade out alivio for deore or slx sometime or even upgrade to a rockshox reba or recon, etc. Frame is very good, and bike is a little on the heavy side, but overall i'm happy with the bike, originally $1,100 and $699 sale price
Bottom Line:
Overall, the bike is great for intros and beginners, a good way to learn how to handle a 29er. I think the key is practice, practice, practice with this size bike, going to take it in to get it serviced here shortly and only had a disc brake rub as of now that will get adjusted. climbs like a champ...but can't wait to see what it does on the open longer trails. Struggles slightly on tight twistys and switcheroos for me, but might just be an experience factor and not just a bike issue.
