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Submitted by
masnumata
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | The one I'm on~ | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Eclipse Sports | | Strengths: | Space Age looking sexy curves, tough as nails anodizing job;
Awesome Ride with upgrade of rear shock (came with X-Fusion stock);
Full Cable Routing;
Versatile purpose frame;
Very Strong and stiff frame;
Bloody Affordable | | Weaknesses: | No bottle mount, but not very important as I use a hydration pack and I don't use the water bottle to squirt my bike after a muddy ride anymore;
Mud gets thrown onto the rear shock (Easily fixed with DIY mud flap and shock boot);
Slightly heavy with coil shock (But I'm a heavy rider at around 200lbs, so I actually welcome the extra weight for reassurance, lighter riders can spec the frame with an air shock)
| | Similar Products Used: | Tomac Snyper 140, Specialized FSR Stumpjumpers, Mongoose Black Diamond Series, Cannodale Rush and Perp, Ellsworth Moment, Truth, Turner 5 Spot, Santa Cruz Blur/ Blur LT, many more | | Bike Setup: | Rockshox Domain 318 fork, Vanilla R 7.875x2.25 shock | | Bottom Line: | Iniitially, the frame came with an X-Fusion rear shock (7.875x2.0) which resulted in a 5 inch travel rear, so I changed the shock to a Fox Vanilla R '06 (7.875 x 2.25) which upped the travel to around 5.6inches.... This made the bike really come alive, especially after I fitted a Rockshox Domain 318 at 160mm in the front.... The raised BB height also made it so much easier to clear obstacles, and this bike has become a SUPER FURY!!! Hard cornering is also no issue, as the bike feels so balanced.... That's the reason why I say the frame is so versatile - you can spec any type of shock /fork combo to your type of riding and the frame will take it!!! (Other than DH, or XC race) The only downside is that the rider cannot be too short, I am 1.74m and riding the small size frame already....
I feel that the mono pivot in a good position is under-rated after riding this bike; it just oozes fun out of everything - Berms, jumps, bunnyhopping, launching off tree roots..... The short chainstays make it really easy to bunny, wheelie and manual this beast it's amazing.....
The performance is exceptional even when it is so simple, climbing steep inclines is no issue at all with this bike even when I have such a high front end!!!
Mountain Cycle got the pivot placing spot on with this frame, and there is no pedal feedback in the middle and big chainrings; there is only stiffening up of the rear end when the chain is in the granny and smaller cogs in the rear, but who the heck uses this combination anyway.... (I also have to say that the mono pivot Tomac Snyper also rides fantastically, it feels spot on too, damn fun that frame was....)
Acceleration and riding on the road is superb, it feels like my old stumpy with 90mm of rear travel even though it's 140mm frame... It's that good.... The suspension reacts just enough to the chain tension and cancels out rider induced bob, I notice it when switching over to my friend's 130mm Stumpjumper where the rear moves when i pedal hard....
Final thoughts:
I would recommend anyone who isn't a weight weenie and rides hard.... I find that a lot of frames and components in recent times have shaved too much weight off to the point of being scary.... For example I snapped my Tomac Snyper's chainstays almost clean off while just riding along.....
Get one with a 7.875 x 2.25inch stroke rear shock and you will not regret it.... But for larger riders only..... | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mcrumble69
a Weekend Warrior
from Manchester CT USA
Date Reviewed: December 20, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Case Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | Mountain Cycle | | Strengths: | Stiff,versatile,fit,geometry,and attention to detail.
| | Weaknesses: | Seat post clearance can be a problem for some.
I recommend a telescoping post like a Joplin,Gravity Dropper Etc. If on a budget a Titec Scoper works very well. | | Similar Products Used: | Too many to list. | | Bike Setup: | 06 Fury frame,Marzocchi Z1 fork,Manitou Swinger 3 Way air shock,Etc | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up review to my earlier one posted below.
After owning this frame for 2 years I can't say enough good things about it.
It has been dead on reliable and I have never had a single problem with it.
This is the "go-to" bike in my stable..
I consider Mountain Cycle's customer service to be among the best in the business.
They have a "Die Hard" following for a reason.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
robwhite
a Weekend Warrior
from leeds, uk
Date Reviewed: December 18, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | dalby | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | super strong frame,simple one pivot design, climbs really well for 5" travel and descends like a downhill bike! full outer cable runs on gears great for uk riding.
got it cheap rides really well strong dont want anything else going to ride it till it breaks or i do | | Weaknesses: | none really except cheap decals | | Bike Setup: | marzocchi marathon sl forks, lx xt groupset hayes nine brakes, speedball post | | Bottom Line: | if you want a reliable strong good riding take any abuse bike buy one ! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
oldschooldirt
a Weekend Warrior
from Elizabeth, CO, USA
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | The Face | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$375.00 | | Strengths: | Burley, stiff. Climbs better than I do, decends very well. Single pivot simplicity. Unique. | | Weaknesses: | No bottle holder for lights. Not the prettiest yellow. Poor stickers. | | Similar Products Used: | Yeti, Santa Cruz | | Bike Setup: | XT/XTR, Pushed Fox RP3/Float RLC 140. | | Bottom Line: | Very fun bike to ride. Have not run into another one yet. With tubless conversion, the bike weighs 29.5 lbs w/pedals.
I think this frame could be built up as a shuttle runner with a double chain ring, coil shock, Fox 36 fork and burlier wheels. As it is, it makes a great 5.5 inch trail bike that doesn't mind if it gets gnarly and rough. Oh, and good customer service. I needed new stickers after I changed the color, And they where easy to deal with and quick. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jonesyxcfury
a Weekend Warrior
from Castleton, Ny, USA
Date Reviewed: August 2, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Local | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Mountain Cycle | | Strengths: | Everything,
This frame paired with the Marzocchi ROCO TST R is a mach made in MTB haven! I was out for a total of 5.5hours today i took it on some rough trails, Drops from 2-6', steep as all hell cliffs and i hit some berms! On the rough trails is handled like a dream it seemed to soak up all that i through at it. The drops that i felt confident to hit were soaked right up like nothing had happened. As for the dh end it was amazing descended like it was its job and i nailed some berms it carves into them so well and you feel so confident doing so. I was having so much fun with the berms i was getting hella cocky and was damn near rubbing my knee on the ground I cant even wait to ride it again tomorrow!! | | Weaknesses: | None at all | | Similar Products Used: | Its unique that's all i can say | | Bike Setup: | RockShox Tora 318 Coil U-Turn
Marzocchi Roco AIR TST R
Race Face Deus Headset
Race Face Evolve Low Riser Bar
Race Face X-Type Deus Crankset
Race Face Evolve XC Stem
Race Face Deus XC Seatpost
Race Face Lock On Grips
Sram X.9 Trigger shifters
Sram PG-950 9-Speed Cassette
Sram PC 971 Chain
Sram X.7 Front DER (only one in stock that would work but it came in black )
Sram X.9 Rear DER
Avid 08 Speed Dial 7 Levers
Avid BB7 Disc's 8"
With all Jagwire cables
Sette Amp Saddle
Mavic Crossride Disc Wheels
IRC Trailbear Tires | | Bottom Line: | Awesome frameset don't think just buy one you wont be disappointed at the quality or performance this frameset is 110% flawless its perfect in every way shape or form!
Just call up Mountain Cycle now and order (or your local Mountain Cycle dealer)
Also just one more thing i called up Mountain Cycle and ordered the frameset and it was shipped same day and arrived a few days later. Their Customer Service is just awesome i spoke to Eric LaPointe and he was on his game. We spoke through e-mail and phone anytime i sent him a e-mail he replied in less than 5 minutes every time!
Mountain Cycle has earned a customer for life so Thanks everyone over there for making a AWESOME PRODUCT! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bigrocks
a Downhiller
from York,Pennsylvania USA
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Greenfish | | Strengths: | Easy serviced single pivot. Can run long travel forks. Takes my repeated beatings with no prblems. | | Weaknesses: | A little creaky. Tight fit on the front derailier..took me awhile to get it just right.Needs an ISCG mount. A little heavy..so what! | | Similar Products Used: | 96 Jamis Dakar, 02 Titus Switchblade long travel. Various DH rigs...Just bought an Ibis Mojo for longer rides. | | Bike Setup: | 2004(Purchased in Oct of 2005) Large frame... 5.0 DHX rear shock, 06 Z1 Light, Hayes Mags, Hope Bulbs hubs , Mavic XM321, Truvativ Holtzfeller Double/w bash...rest is XT | | Bottom Line: | Bought this to replace my Titus Switchblade(to many pivots limited shock options). I wanted an easy to maintain, single pivot. The XL SC Heckler was to big and the large was to small. A friend suggested the Fury. I ordered it without a test ride and have no regrets. Simply put "IT's a FUN Bike!". Climbs good,handles rock gardens and the downhills with ease. Likes to be jumped. I had a Vanilla on it at first and I like it better with the DHX. Ordered replacement parts from "The New Mountain Cycle" with no problems.. good customer service. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john mills
a Cross Country Rider
from bristol,uk
Date Reviewed: August 14, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Leigh Woods | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | chainreactioncycles | | Strengths: | great after sales service and support. very stiff, agile,
responsive.The van r with pro pedal is very plush when tuned properly. Great attention to detail with the fully
covered cable runs. | | Weaknesses: | a little trouble getting the headset in. clearances for the
top swing front mech are a little tight when trying to get
the clamp in the right place. | | Bike Setup: | rockshox recon, lx groupset, mavic/hope, avid bb7. | | Bottom Line: | Exclusivity - mine's the only one, and for a novice(ish)
rider it's so easy to get on with. Definately buy another.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Glenn P
a Weekend Warrior
from Waipahu
Date Reviewed: May 11, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | leeward oahu | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Shaka bikes and boards | | Strengths: | Awsume looking bike. Very burly | | Weaknesses: | no water bottle holder | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 specialized enduro | | Bike Setup: | Z150fr, king hubs & headset, mavic 819 w/2.35 intense tires, 70mm raceface diablous stem, sram x.o. rear derailaur x.9 shifter, manitou six way swinger. | | Bottom Line: | After 2 1/2 years of riding its still going. It won't break, only components. I did some upgrades since my last posting on Nov. 2004. Added Z150fr and manitou 6 way swinger, and this bike really came to life. I'm taking bigger drops and actually doing some jumps, never did it before. This bike just makes riding so enjoyable, you can climb and bomb down hill all day. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
wery gerald
a Weekend Warrior
from Neupre-Belgium
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Condroz-Belgium | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$3300.00 | | Purchased At: | Barracuda Company | | Strengths: | Do it all (just have to adjust suspensions settings and pedals, flat or automatic).I do dirt, 4x, enduro series, freeride. | | Weaknesses: | One failure on the frame (juste under the seat). Replace in warranty by a brand new ano black. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky mountain Slayer, Santa Cruz Nomad, Specialized Enduro | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi 66 RC2X 150mm '06 (wonderfull), Manitou Swinger air x4 '07 (in place of 5th Elements not confortable enough), Sram X9, Shimano XT, Crossmax XL | | Bottom Line: | I like the new Specialized Enduro SL because it's brand new design and technology but I can't find a good reason to sell my Fury exept if you give me 100.000 $ to buy a good car too! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Corbett
a Downhiller
from Santa Monica
Date Reviewed: November 17, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | a secret | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Attack Santa Monica | | Strengths: | Light, good up hill | | Weaknesses: | seat post is a little too high for extreme downhill... | | Similar Products Used: | Intense Uzzi was next on the downhill food chain... | | Bike Setup: | Had a 888 front end... | | Bottom Line: | Good all mountain !!! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from manchester ct
Date Reviewed: September 13, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | case mountain | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Mountain Cycle | | Strengths: | great climber and decender. awesome finish(black ano)stiff and strong. | | Weaknesses: | none at all | | Bike Setup: | 06 black ano fury frame,progressive 5th element 5 way coil, manitou nixon fork,titec pyro scoper post,xt cranks and derailleurs,azonic outlaw wheels. | | Bottom Line: | this bike rules! its the perfect do it all bike.its one of those bikes that just feels right the first time you throw a leg over it. it climbs,corners and decends great. and seems strong enough to take abuse for years to come. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Henry
a Cross Country Rider
from Aliso Viejo, CA
Date Reviewed: July 30, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Too many to choose | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Adrenaline | | Strengths: | Feels solid, is solid. Extremely stiff laterally. Full length cable housings. Beautifully constructed in my opinion. Climbs well, descends well. Amazing in sand! | | Weaknesses: | Stock Vanilla R bottoms too harshly and the Pro-Pedal makes small bump sensitivity feel awful. The frame is a bit heavy... with the Van R 450# spring, the frame was 8 pounds 4 ounces on my digital fish scale. That's a bit heavy for trail bike use, but the durability and ride quality make up for it. Could use a slightly slacker head angle. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Heckler, Azonic Saber. | | Bike Setup: | Z1 FR 130mm, Stratos Helix Expert shock, White Industries hubs, XT/XTR mix drivetrain and brakes, Sram Rocket triggers, Thomson 70 mm stem/seatpost, Protaper bars, Deus headset, Candy pedals. | | Bottom Line: | As you can see from my parts list, I've set this bike up for all mountain duty. The wheels lean towards the lighter end of the spectrum and I don't have any "big hit" type equipment on it. That said, the complete bike is 33 pounds! A little portly, but I got used to it quickly. It actually becomes a plus when you realize that you can take it off head-height drops without hurting the frame.
I hated the stock Fox shock, and also didn't like it with a Romic. In my opinion/experience, this frame doesn't do well with a linear spring rate shock that relies on a bottom out bumper. In this respect, an air shock might be a better choice, but I wanted the feel of coil. BTW, I don't know how a Progressive would feel on this frame; their reputation scared me. With a Stratos Helix, I was able to dial a low initial rate and have a very nice ramp up in the last 20% of stroke to prevent harsh bottoming. You must feel it to believe it. Check out my review on this shock for specifics. Though there is no pedalling platform, this setup does not bob when climbing unless I'm being really really sloppy.
Speaking of climbing, if not for the weight, this bike would be king. 16.5" chainstays that dig into the terrain when you apply maximum force. It's ridiculously stiff laterally too, putting my Heckler to shame. The one downside I've seen thus far during climbing is that, depending on your tire choice and wheel stiffness, you can sometimes graze the front deraileur (in granny gear) with the rear tire when you're really torquing through ruts.
With the suspension set up as detailed, this bike gives great confidence going downhill. The extra long head tube forces a tall handlebar height. While I didn't think I was going to like that initially, it has actually become one of my favorite traits when swapping bikes with friends. Steep, technical descents have gotten much easier because of it. I would be curious to try this bike if it had a slightly slacker head angle. Thusly set up, it measures 69 degrees... I'd like to see 68 for the crazy stuff but climbing might suck then. Because of the single pivot design, there is some brake induced stiffening, but conversely there is no brake jacking. (Yes, these are two separate phenomena.) So while traction is somewhat compromised, there is very little forward weight shift caused by the bike. Consider what you want out of the bike, and choose accordingly. For me, this is acceptable, and safer, for a trail bike.
Overall, I'm looking forward to many years on this steed. Fast riding, low maintennance, super strong, endless grins. I just hope Mountain Cycle still thrives after its recent acquisition.
P.S. Hey MTBR! What's with rider categories limited to CC, DH, racer, and weekend warrior? I'm none of those. I'm all-mountain/freeride just like many people on your discussion forums and many of the products now being made. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vahva
a Cross Country Rider
from Finland
Date Reviewed: June 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Utra Raili | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | ET-sports Finland Joensuu | | Strengths: | Very good built quality. Smooth Travel all way - small pump working also can tuned for good. (Manitou Swinger 3 way air) | | Weaknesses: | Little bit heavy side for my use. | | Similar Products Used: | B1 hornet plus, KHS fxt team | | Bike Setup: | Minute 2 -06, American classic wheels, RPM carbon(fsa) granks, Thomson stem and post, Sram drivetrain, Truvativ carbon 31.8 riser, Hope mono m4, Maxxis Advantage, Swinger 3way air. | | Bottom Line: | More reviewer later - after more rides. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ian
a Cross Country Rider
from england
Date Reviewed: June 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | peak distict-hope | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | wades cycles | | Strengths: | really can do it all, great climber- top descender!!!helps you pust it that bit harder | | Weaknesses: | british weatherproofing-front cable stop & rear shock mount | | Similar Products Used: | giant vt 1 | | Bike Setup: | swnger 3 way, pace rc40 forks(120-150 travel) crossmax wheels, xt gears, easton bits and bobs | | Bottom Line: | Can be ridden anywhere from local hilly trails to full on rockfests. Can attack technical climbs and downhills too!!!! Built up from frame. Still quite rare in the uk and my anodised black version with black crossmax wheels and Pace carbon forks gets loads of looks and stares!!!!! Made me a better,faster and braver rider. After sales service direct to the USA is great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tom thomas
a Downhiller
from sacramento ca
Date Reviewed: April 14, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | salmon falls redding ca | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | town@country bike 9167264322 | | Strengths: | great cornering and control light weight comfortable to ride | | Weaknesses: | none would buy another | | Similar Products Used: | none ride any thing as nice | | Bike Setup: | sram x.9 everthing shom.xt hubs brakes marzucchi z1 dropoff forks race face cranks azonic assor. | | Bottom Line: | ill ride till i killit and get another. this bike rids so well and handles so good it makes some trails boring. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Travis
a
from Waitsfield
Date Reviewed: February 6, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | The Clinic | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Inverness Ski Shop | | Strengths: | Weight, Climbing, Soaking up moderate sized hits, Mountain Cycle customer service | | Weaknesses: | Small bump absorbion | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky, K2 proflex, cannondale jekyl, gary fisher cake, rocky mountain switch | | Bike Setup: | Medium Fury, Jr T with upgraded HSCV and stiff springs, Raceface prodigy bars seatpost and cranks, avid juicy 5 w/ 7 inch rotors and goodridge cables, Fox vanilla RC, King headset, hutchinson 2.3 scorpions, mavic deemax and shimano XT drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | This bike blows kona 4-bar linkage out of the water when climbing, it doesn't have the smooth suspension feel on the small roots and bumps. I have my fury pretty much decked out freeride style and it is still only 33 pounds. The geometry is awesome, but i wish the top tube was about 2 inches longer so i could use the marzocchi bolt-on stem. Overall, a great product made in the USA, customer service is impeccable and you will have a bike that people will always stop to check out. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: December 3, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Sparrow Hill (Canberra, Australia) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Greenfish Adventure Sport | | Strengths: | Strong frame with an excellent build quality. Design is also extremely simple with the single pivot so maintenance shouldn't be too much of an issue. The bike climbs and descends brilliantly and inspires confidence in its handling. | | Weaknesses: | No cage for water bottle or lights. | | Similar Products Used: | Nil, last bike was/is a Giant NRS. | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Sherman Firefly fork, Juicy 7's, King headset, XT 8 speed shifters, XT/XTR front/rear derailleur, Truvativ Firex crank (not happy with this), 5th element coil shock, wheels off the NRS for now. | | Bottom Line: | Fantastic bike that does everything I want, from XC through to All Mountain and light freeride. Five chilis also to Greenfish Adventure Sports who offered an excellent price on the parts and postage as well as great customer service. The frame and forks got from the US to New Zealand in short order. Final assembly in NZ has been done by Bicycles Ltd in Lower Hutt who are also fantastic. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shadfly
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: September 24, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Rastaman, Waterburry | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Cambria | | Strengths: | Durability!! Versitility. | | Weaknesses: | There may be lighter 5" travel frames out there. | | Similar Products Used: | Tomac Eli | | Bike Setup: | Fox float 130, Sun Rhyno lite, Hayes Disc | | Bottom Line: | This is my second season on this bike (follow up review)and I have been super happy. Previously I broke a 2 Tomac 98 specials, Tomac Eli and Kona Chute frames. My Fury frame has survived some serious abuse. I like all kinds of riding. Occassional lift serve, light freeride (4'-5' drop max, dirt jumping and all day epics. This bike does all of the above but really excells at aggressive trail riding and railing corners. I have not had to tighten pivots since I got the frame. Mountain Cycle customer service has been awesome!! They return calls and emails the same day and have given good advice when matching components to the frame. I continue to break components but have not had one issue with this frame. If you are a trail rider looking for the one bike that does it all give the Fury a serious look. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam Leahy
a Weekend Warrior
from Buckley, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | SeaTac Flow Park | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1940.00 | | Purchased At: | The Peak | | Strengths: | Strong frame, build quality | | Weaknesses: | None | | Bike Setup: | Z1, Swinger 3way, XT/Truvative, RL XL, King | | Bottom Line: | This is an UPDATE after 15 months of use:
This bike is as solid as it was when I bought it. I do a trail ride on Thursdays and a freeride on the weekends. That is pretty much every week without exception. So, I've done a lot of pedaling and a lot of hucking, and it does them both really well. I am not a full-on xc guy, or a full-on freerider, I live somewhere in-between. But, with that said, my Fury has taken me on long 20+ mile rides with over 5,000ft of climbing, and hour after hour of 5ft drops. The main pieces of this bike have been absolutely bulletproof, the frame and fork. But here are the things that I killed, and something to lookout for. I demolished the WTB grease guard headset in a matter of weeks, so King Bling, and no problem since. The bushings on my Xfusion shock wore out after about a year, which I felt was par for the course, but getting replacements was downright impossible. I ended up replacing it with a Swinger 3 way, and have been very happy with the upgrade. After a year of really wet riding, the bolts that hold the plate onto the swingarm, that the base of the shock connects to, became seized in there. They had to be drilled out, and was not a pretty job. So periodic anti-seize coating, or greasing those bolts is a must, especially if you do a lot of wet riding. But, overall, I think I spend a lot less time maintaining my bike than my Santa Cruz, Kona, Klein, Giant friends. If I was going to buy a 5 inch bike today, would it be a Mountain Cycle Fury? Yes, without any hesitation. For a person that is going to use every inch of a 5 inch bike, the Fury is simply the best. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mrchris
a Weekend Warrior
from bolton ontario canada
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | porcupine ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | trail blazer | | Strengths: | super strong frame, elavated swing-arm, single pivot | | Weaknesses: | a little more beef, but you don't notice it | | Bike Setup: | pike fork 20mm through axle, air swinger 4-way rear shock, strong wheels, other assorted bling | | Bottom Line: | ordered mine without rear shock, added swinger 4-way air which i really like. i ride this bike everywhere and do everything on it. it can handle almost anything. just fly on the downhills and rail corners. logs/stunts/jumps handles with ease. i even race the odd crosscountry race on it and do quite well. climbs like stink on steep tech hills but the longer roadie style double track hills you have to just chug up. the pike 20mm axle works very well, great contro with this frame. i'm very happy with this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Boris Blanks
a Downhiller
from 135 Van Ness Ashland OR USA
Date Reviewed: February 25, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Mach 5 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Bear Creek Cyclery | | Strengths: | Strong welds and frame. Rock solid feel on the descents and when launching it takes the impact. I did a drop of 10 feet and it kept on going. Banging bike. | | Weaknesses: | The 5th Element coil sucks!! I changed it for a Fox DHX 5.0 | | Similar Products Used: | Intense 5.5 with a Fox Talas setup. Another fantastic bike but cannot stick the heavy landings like the fury!! | | Bike Setup: | Fox 36 RC2, king headset, Diabolus stem, Easton EC DH riser, Mavic Dee Max wheelset, Kenda Nevegal 2.3 tires, Truvativ Holzfeller with E13 guard, Hope M6 Ti 220 mm brakes, Thomson seatpost, Wtb Pure Stealth saddle, X0/X9 drive train. Fabulous kit on the bike. | | Bottom Line: | The frame is obviously the foundation of the bike and I have ridden many but this bike rocks!! With this kit it comes alive and by changing the 5th Element to a Fox DHS 5.0 it transforms the ride altogether. Thanks MC | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Glenn P.
a Weekend Warrior
from Waipahu, Hawaii
Date Reviewed: November 10, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | All of Central Oahu | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | SHAKA BIKES & BOARDS KAPOLEI | | Strengths: | Anodized black looks awsume. Stiff rear suspension. All around great looking bike. | | Weaknesses: | No waterbottle holder to hold my Nightrider Blowtorch so I can keep riding into the night. | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 Specialized Enduro Expert | | Bike Setup: | 2004 Marzocchi Z1FR Qr20, C/K headset and hubs w/Mavic 223 rims, Raceface Diablous stem, Next XC lowriser carbon handle bar & XC dues cranks. Crankbrothers Mallets. Sram X9 shifters & X.0 rear derailer. Shimano XT front derailer & XT rear cogs 34-11. 5th element shock w/400lb spring. | | Bottom Line: | I'm 240lbs and this bike takes everything I throw at it. This bike climbs and decends like a goat on steriods. The rear suspension stays stiff and won't bob when I'm mushing on the pedals and it did the same when I had to tow my buddy when he broked his rear derailer hanger. It also corners well thru burms,turns and single tracks. The z1fr fork and the rear suspension works well together, it takes all the bumbs and smooths it all up. About the waterbottle holder I took care of that by mounting it on the top tube and tie strapping it down so that I can ride at night. If you want to have some serious playing in the mountain, this is the bike to get. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento,Ca
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | The Pony Shop in Chicago,Il | | Strengths: | Exceptional build quality, engineered construction, light and stiff, a fantastic single-pivot design with a 5" stroke "Progressive 5th Element" shock. A great all-around frame... | | Weaknesses: | Adsolutely nothing! | | Similar Products Used: | None. My other project is a fully loaded "money-no-object" Karpiel "Apocalypse" machine... | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi "Shiver DC" fork, Hadley DH hubs, HED "DB45A" DH rims, Blackspire cranks, Thomson seatpost, Thomson "X4" stem, Hope M4 disc brakes, Maxxis "Hookworm" rubber, Titec "El Norte" saddle, etc... | | Bottom Line: | Buy one for everything except DH, or "extreme" freeride! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete Boyd
a Weekend Warrior
from Las Vegas Nevada
Date Reviewed: October 19, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Red Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3300.00 | | Purchased At: | Pro Cyclery | | Strengths: | Great climbing ability. Accelerates well. Very comfortable. I completed all uphill trails 100% for the first time. ETA is a great option to have. The traction on the tough uphill sections is the best ever. Thanks to the suspension, I never stalled on the step-ups or rocks. Downhill was awsume. The difference a full suspesion bike of this quality makes will change the way you feel about mountain biking. It is amazing to see how far the industry has come in the last few years. This bike is a must-have for anyone that needs a burst of life in their riding routine. It is the most forgiving bike I have ever ridden. I rode so long the first time out, my wife thought I must have crashed out in the desert somewhere! | | Weaknesses: | No complaints. | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z1 FR '04
5th Element / Progressive
Hayes Discs
MTB Laser Cut DH wheels/rims
| | Bottom Line: | I should have bought a Fury sooner. The rush factor has increased dramatically... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MAXXED
a Cross Country Rider
from Honolulu
Date Reviewed: October 10, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | Mountain Cycle | | Strengths: | Stiff frame and swingarm.
Tough powder coat finish.
No v-brake bosses.
| | Weaknesses: | Stick on decals on a frame at this price point. | | Similar Products Used: | '98 San Andreas
'03 Cannondale Jekyll | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Black fork, Avid BB Disc Brakes and Speed Dial 7 levers, '04 XTR front and rear derailleurs, XT crank, Alex Vectra D2 wheels and hubs, Progressive 5th Element coil shock. | | Bottom Line: | Before getting into detail of the Fury’s strengths, let me make one statement: I love this bike.
I have been searching for this bike for more than three years.
I had almost given up, thinking my requirements were too specific. Actually it turns out, I’m not alone, because Mountain Cycle felt the same way.
Have you ever purchased a bike and within a month, discovered serious design flaws and weaknesses, and regretted it?
Since purchasing the Fury, it’s been the opposite. I keep discovering new things that impress me more each time I ride it.
I purchased it as a frame only, and built it from the ground up. Since I had all the parts I needed, and shipping to Hawaii is horrendous, “frame only” is always the preferred way to go for me.
Don’t be alarmed at the price I paid, Mountain Cycle actually has a great frame replacement program if you destroy your MC frame.
My case was a little different. I purchased a closeout Tremor frame that was defective, and MC allowed me to use the frame replacement program to trade up to a Fury.
After the first mile of riding it, the Fury just felt “right”. It has amazingly quick and responsive steering and handling (a trait that all Mountain Cycle bikes appear to have), even with it’s relatively mild head tube angle.
It is an effortless and efficient climbing machine. I found myself getting to the top of hills much faster with reserve energy to spare in my legs.
It excels in narrow single track paths. The Fury seems to naturally stick to single tracks like a roller coaster.
My 2003 Cannondale Jekyll by comparison, would require a lot of effort and focus to stay on a single track path. Steering response felt sluggish and slow, and it always had a tendency to wander and not want to stay on the path.
I questioned my bike handling skills at times, but the Fury made me realize the fault was not on my part.
I can ride “hand free” without the Fury wanting to wander all over the road.
It can turn inside the turning diameter of my Jekyll!
On and offroad the Fury is a great performer and seems to do everything right. The Fury let’s you focus on riding and having fun, rather than focusing on annoying design flaws that constantly remind you why should have bought another bike instead.
On high speed downhill runs exceeding 35mph on road, it remained rock steady and in full control. The Jekyll and my 1998 San Andreas developed a high speed shimmy at the same speeds.
The Jekyll has one redeeming quality over the Fury, however. The Jekyll is what I call a “stroker”. It has the ability to run in the 32 chainring/11 tooth cassette gear ratio on flat land effortlessly for long distances. The Fury can’t quite duplicate it, but comes in a close second.
However, in every other category of performance, steering, handling, balance, climbing ability, high speed downhills, sprinting, and jumping, the Fury wins hands down.
Although the Jekyll has that one redeeming quality, it is quickly forgotten by all the things the Fury does right, vs. the one and only thing that the Jekyll does right.
Another well thought out area is the cable routing.
Full length outer cable routing on the brake and rear derailleur is a great idea. Shifting and braking performance are cleaner and drag free, not to mention dramatically reducing the chance of water, dirt, and grit getting into the cable housings.
The cable mounting guides, using tie wraps, are a simple but effective way to anchor down different diameter cables. No need to look for adapters or reducers whether you’re mounting Shimano SIS cables or hydraulic brake lines. One size fits all, speeds assembly, and makes for a clean installation.
Not only are the tie wraps a great idea, but the spacing of the cable holder mounts on the frame and swingarm, are placed perfectly. The cables fit neatly and cleanly with no slop, and no restrictive bends.
One of my priorities in my search for the ultimate mountain bike was that it had to have elevated chainstays. I must admit, the monocoque, gracefully arched, trademark MC elevated swingarm, is the most handsome and sculpted swingarm I have seen to date. The bead blasted, anodized finish has also proven to be very durable.
The great looks of the MC swingarm are a definite side benefit, but I wanted an elevated chainstay/swingarm because it eliminates the chain hitting the chainstay under hard impacts, reducing the chance of throwing the chain or having it get jammed between the rear axle and frame. It also eliminates the chain rubbing the chainstay when using the smallest cog on the cassette when offroading at speed.
Since the swingarm never gets hit by the chain, putting on an ugly neoprene or Lizard Skin chainstay protector is not an issue. Any type of chain protector becomes a moisture and grime trap over a period of time, and requires constant cleaning.
Finally, elevated chainstays make rear tire changes much faster and easier, especially on the trail.
What don’t the other manufacturers and designers understand about the benefits of elevated chainstays?
I rarely see them, and the ones that I do see, riders complain about flexing.
Santa Cruz had such a problem with rear swingarm/frame flexing, that 5th Element shocks were actually being damaged by the lateral flex caused by the design.
Cannondale’s ill fated bonded elevated swingarm on the earlier Jekylls met with catastrophic failure, and a voluntary replacement of the swingarm with a newer, conventional design.
Don’t let the Fury’s aerodynamic, streamlined look fool you into thinking that it’s designed for mild XC riding only.
My first torture test on any new frame is to clear four stairs at my favorite beach park. The Fury cleared all four stairs without even trying!
After more than six months of jumping, riding down stairs, high speed downhills, offroading, urban assault, and XC riding, I’ve experienced no flex in the frame or swingarm. The Fury has taken everything that I’ve been brave (or stupid) enough to throw at it, and I know I’m not even close to testing the limits of this frame.
If you’re considering a freeride or downhill bike, but also like XC and urban assault riding, I would seriously give the Fury a test ride before limiting yourself to a purpose designed bike.
After owning a San Andreas and the Fury, I’d definitely buy another Mountain Cycle.
This one’s a keeper.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a Weekend Warrior
from Phx, Az
Date Reviewed: October 6, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | National | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | Kore Bikes, Scottsdale | | Strengths: | Build quality and finish, parts kits to choose from when ordering, Anodized black finish, sinister | | Weaknesses: | cheep stickers applied to the swing arm..I pulled off. Other frame markings are all painted on, awesome | | Similar Products Used: | Only similar in that they are mountain bikes, Giant XTC2 full suspension, Giant CFM3 carbon fiber hard tail, Trek 970 and a Bianchi way back when | | Bike Setup: | My bike was ordered with the PRO build kit, for light weight and best quality, King headset, TruVativ cranks, XTR, Hayes Hyd brakes, Sun/Ringle rims/hubs, 5th Element Coil, Marz Freeride Z1 fork with the Q20 thruaxle and quick release drop out and travel adjust. On their website just look for the pro kit to get the scoop | | Bottom Line: | I ride agressive XC, climbing, downhills and flats and now more stunts....I do all mountain just as I had expected from my newest bike...This bike is fantastic, I cannot describe how great it feels to blaze down a trail and not need to grab brakes at every rough spot, just aim and let the bike do the rest. I currently have all of the suspension adjusted in the middle and am fine tuning after each ride, no noticeable "bob" and climbing on this bike is better due to the single pivot and 5th element. I can climb stuff much easier then with my other bikes even though it weighs a bit more. I rode 4 other bikes while looking and came back to this for my $$$. Do the same if your looking for a great 5" bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shad
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: August 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | I like 'em all | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Cambria | | Strengths: | very stiff. Durable. great decender! | | Weaknesses: | Frame weight | | Similar Products Used: | Tomac Eli | | Bike Setup: | LX group, Black elite, Hayes disc | | Bottom Line: | This is a fun bike. The head angle is 70 degrees, slacker than I'm used to and it's taken a little time to get used to. The bike loves to go down hill! It wheelie drops with ease and tracks well when riding stunts. The suspension has handled 4-5' drops without a problem. Rides tight technical single track well. You have to shift your weight way foreward for technical climbs. The front end likes to wander. Overall, this rides the stunts and downhills great, tracking well and soaking up the hits. The weight and geometry means you have to be on when getting up the technical steep climbs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris B
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | "the whole enchilada", Moab, UT | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1795.00 | | Purchased At: | Cog Wild | | Strengths: | Solid over-built gusseted frame, simple single-pivot suspension design, steep angles and shorter chainstays make the ride very responsive and quick-handling | | Weaknesses: | Frame and rear shock on the heavy side for XC riding | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Gemini, Santa Cruz Bullit | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z1 FR SL fork, Progressive 5th Element Coil Rear shock, Hayes hydraulic discs, Sun-Ringle SUV wheelset, XTR shifters and derailleurs, Truvativ crankset, stem, and handlebar, Thomson post, King HS, Nokian NBX 2.3 tires. Great cable routing keeps shift housing and hydraulic lines away from danger, Progressive 5th element coil keeps the rear wheel on the ground. | | Bottom Line: | This bike weighed in at 32 pounds, which is right in the middle of the range for 5 inch travel bikes. The bike rides a lot lighter than its actual weight, thanks to the steep angles and shorter chainstays. The single pivot makes climbing easy, compared to more active linkage designs, and it requires much less maintenance than more complex suspension platforms.
This model of Mountain Cycle is designed to be an "all-mountain" bike, meaning it will handle some very rugged terrain, drops, rocks, logs, etc. while still being light and nimble enough to sit on for an all-day backcountry adventure. If you are looking for a bike that leans a little more towards freeriding than cross-country riding, then this one's for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Santiago Garcia III
a Downhiller
from Sunshine State of Confusion
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Upper dirt merchant | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Atlantic Bicycle | | Strengths: | -Super Stiff rear swing arm(WOW!)
-Cable routing is great
-Bike handles very well in aggressive conditions | | Weaknesses: | -wish i could ride it more! | | Similar Products Used: | Santacruz Heckler, Haro WERKS EXT | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi FR-150, Full Shimano Saint Grupo(i used xtrshifters, and DeoreXT hydro levers), Atomlab Aircorps, King headset, Maxxis tires, 5th Element coil | | Bottom Line: | This bike blew the Heckler out of the water!!! I have it set up as an all mountain bike, it can pedal, jump, climb, corner, track and do it all!! Iam so impressed with this bike and its ability to do everything!! I run the Saint grupo on it and it is still only 35lbs, this might sound heavy but it rides like its in the 28lbs range!! I can take this bike any where and have and know it will handle any thing I throw at it! from long XC runs to some pretty sick FR. Ive taken 8ft drops to trannies with no problem! The rear swing arm is soooo stiff you can really feel it when riding. Get the Ano black finish for BLING BLING factor!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed
a Weekend Warrior
from Swampscott
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | bow ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | www.Bikemedics.com | | Strengths: | Fit and Finish are top notch USA Built. Geometry is set up just right for All Mountain riding ,aggressive trail or Moderate Free riding. Stock X-Fusion rear shock is very impressive with it's ability to lock out or dial the propedal on the fly .This bike just flys very little bobbing excellant traction and plush travel make you want to just go fast. It looks great too. | | Weaknesses: | Front Del rubs on tires bigger than 2.5 | | Similar Products Used: | 5 Spot , Titus Quasi Moto, Iron Horse Hollowpoint | | Bike Setup: | Sherman Firefly , Expert Free Ride Build kit, WTB Whells | | Bottom Line: | Great Bike Excellant value FUN FUN FUN. Climb ,jump ,desend ,stunts it does it all with poise and composure. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cam Somerville
a Racer
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Trail Blazer Cycles | | Strengths: | This frame performs extremely well. I'm a pretty big guy (6'4") and I like to ride equipment hard. I dirt jump and freeride this bike to nmy hearts' content and it takes the abuse. The head angle slacks out nicely on the trails and it handles itself very well on downhills and at speed. | | Weaknesses: | My only issue is to get a stiffer wheelset. I like to whip my bikes around and from time to time I can notice the flex in my wheels. | | Similar Products Used: | I've ridden Stinky's before for freeride bikes | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Millenium, Hayes 6" front and rear w/ Dangerboy levers, Sun SUV wheelset on Ringle Hubs, Protaper handlebars, ODI lockon grips, full XTR drivetrain and shifter set w/ Truvativ cranks | | Bottom Line: | I paid 850 for the frane and it has by far exceded my expectaions of a trail bike. At first look I was suspicious as the the mountaincross-ability of the bike but having built it and ridden that type of riding on it I can definitely say that it can handle what you throw at it. I would defintely get another one down the road. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam Leahy
a Weekend Warrior
from Buckley, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Skookum | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1940.00 | | Purchased At: | The Peak | | Strengths: | Strong frame, good shock, bullet proof fork, light responsive feel. | | Weaknesses: | NONE. | | Similar Products Used: | Iron Horse Hollowpoint | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z1, Vector Pro shock, XT/Truvativ, Ryno-Lite XL, Mutano Raptors | | Bottom Line: | If you are looking for a 5 inch trail bike, this is absolutely the best one you can get.
I ride twice a week, religously, about 15-20 miles at a time. What ever is on the trail, I ride it, xc singletrack, stunt, jump, DH, it is all good. I generally do some xc racing, lite marathon, and now with the Fury I am planning on a few DH races, just for fun.
That said, the Fury pedals very efficiently. I test rode a Fury with the 5th Element Coil, and it was really hot stuff, but I decided to save $400, and got the Vector Pro shock, which looks suspiciously like a Fox RC from 2003. The Vector shock is totally fine. I haven't had one moment of wishing I had the other. It is like a mountain goat up hill over roots and rocks, the suspension is bottomless on every bump, jump or hit. The front end is light and easy to pick up. Mountain Cycle has a really sweet quick release seat tube collar, which I like a lot, because I end up changing seat heights pretty often. I am a big fan of Marzocchi forks, but was a little hesitant about the weight of the Z1, but let me tell you that fork is the hottest thing ever. If it is 5 or 6 pounds, it sure doesn't feel like it, and it pummels everything in it's way. The lockout on the Z1 is really cool too. It locks about halfway down the travel, and still gives you some suspension. I think it is supposed to be 30 mm in lockout. With the fork locked down it increases your headtube angle and makes the bike a much more aggressive climber, sprinter, and it really works well on a smooth trail also. But, of course, the real fun happens with the 130 mm of endless butter.
The swing arm on the Fury is stiff, really stiff. This bike is like a Hummer, that sips gas like a Civic. I should mention that the build quality is really great also. Really nice, made in the USA stuff. The Fury has some weight to it, it is not in the xc weight class at all, especially the way mine is built, but for all practical purposes, I don't notice the weight, and the fun factor of the solid 5 inches of suspension in a bullet-proof package, has to be experienced to appreciate. It reminds me a lot of my friends Heckler, only stronger and it can be had for a lot less, if you are willing to try the Vector shock. Or order it up with the 5th E, and you are still even with a Heckler or Coiler Dlx. I was ready to buy a Heckler or a Coiler until I saw this, I really can't say enough good things about it. The only bad thing, is they are hard to find. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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