Submitted by
Quimmerman
a Weekend Warrior
from The Tron, NZ Date Reviewed: September 25, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Be Rude Not To
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1971.00
Purchased At:
LBS, Napier
Strengths:
Lots of metal on the frame... Really its built like a tank. Have put it through its paces on jumps, drops, and all manner of lions, tigers and bears (oh no!) with few whinges. good stability at speed and in descent. The anchors on this bad boy pull up like nothing else. Dual ring setup and bash guard has saved replacing a 3rd ring several times.
Good gearing- will never look at shimano mechs again. Actually climbs ok, especially in the tech stuff. point it at the bumps and go.
Weaknesses:
Lots of metal on the frame... Can be a bit heavy on the uphills but then thats the kind of beast it is.
Stupid rear shock stroke length. BB had to be replaced soon after purchase cos it was poo and broke (warranty job from a bad batch). Some money saved on build in places- hubs, head set, stem etc. Dualie can be a bit noisy.
Stock front end used to feel a bit wobbly compared to the rest of the bike.
Similar Products Used:
GT Force, Stumpy- ok so not THAT similar...
Bike Setup:
Replaced forks with fox float 36s with a 20mm bolt through, front wheel rebuilt stronger after taco incident, replaced rings, cassette and chain several times over. Candy SL pedals.
Bottom Line:
With a little tweaking this can be made into a total WEAPON of a bike. I now know I'll never be able to out- ride this bike. A good choice for light FR and maybe touching on some DH. Its an ALL MOUNTAIN bike and does exactly what it says on the tin.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
qazwsx
a Weekend Warrior
from ForCo Area, Co, USA Date Reviewed: March 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Devil's Backbone merge into Coyote Ridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Awesome
Weaknesses:
My only gripe is that rear shock suffered a stuck down position within the first five miles of trail. Sent it back and got it promptly. The saddle sucked a$$ had to go.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro SL, Stumpjumper, SX Trail 2, and demoed a Pitch
Bike Setup:
WTB Rocket V saddle, Maxxis 2.1 CrossMark UST rear and Specialized Fast Trak LX 2.0 up front, e-thirteen chain guard
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks! Its a little heavy for tough technical climbing and my riding buddy can whoop my @$$ with his stumpjumper fsr but when we go back down the trail he just can't keep up. The saddle sucks but most of us upgrade from the stock anyway. If you want a solid trail bike for a killer price this is the bike for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PA All Mtn Man
a Weekend Warrior
from Berwick, PA, United States Date Reviewed: January 11, 2009
Favorite Trail:
The New Guy
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
The Dutch Wheelman
Strengths:
Everything. I have taken this bike in stock form to Diablo Freeride Park, and Snowshoe West Virginia. It took everything at both parks I was man enough to hit, and kept on flying. For the price and the build kit you get its really a good value. You get fsr suspension, avid, sram, and FOX front and rear. I love it.
Weaknesses:
The saddle had to go. Within the first week of ownership, rear shock suffered stuck down condition. Sent back to fox, and it was handled. Works great.
Similar Products Used:
First dually, nothing to compare to.
Bike Setup:
Stock for the first year w/ crank bros mallett.
Have upgraded the front fork from the float 32 rl, to a beefy float 36 rc2. That upgrade made this bike an all mountain shredder. I am upgrading the rear stroker to the dhx 5. Making this bike the 6 and 6 inch bike it is meant to be.
Bottom Line:
If you think this bike looks like you could litterally fly on it....your absolutely right. Just looking at this bike sitting in my apartment makes me wanna ride. Ride this bike and you will think your Matt Hunter. Haha. Maybe not. I find myself searching each trail for little things I can use as a jump. I am actually thinking about buying another frame, for when this one craps out. Sux they dont offer this frame design anymore. I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a solid all mountain machine. Just riding this bike will make a novice feel like a pro. If your looking for a cross country racer, look elsewhere. This bike climbs alright, if you take your time. It is possible to bust a lung trying to keep up to someone up a climb on a four inch carbon bike. But they best get out the way on the downhills, cuz you'll eat them for lunch.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paallmtnman
a Weekend Warrior
from Berwick, Pa, United States Date Reviewed: January 11, 2009
Favorite Trail:
The New Guy
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
The Dutch Wheelman
Strengths:
Just about everything. I've taken this bike in stock form to Diablo Freeride Park, and Snowshoe. It took everything I was man enough to hit and kept on flyin. I absolutely love this bike. The way it looks just makes me wanna ride. This is my first dually, and I was pleasently surprised. I acrually thought about buying another frame for when this one craps out. Sux they dont offer this frame style anymore.
Weaknesses:
Within first week: rear shock suffered stuck down condition. Sent back to fox, taken care of. Other than that NOTHING.
Similar Products Used:
First dually, nothing to compare to.
Bike Setup:
Stock for the first year. Upgraded from the float rl 130 to a 07 float 36 rc2. Made this bike into an all mountain shredder. I am upgrading the rear stroker to a dhx 5 air, make this bike the 6 and 6 inch bike it is meant to be.
Bottom Line:
If you think this looks like a bike you could shred on...Your right. Get this bike and I promise you will think your Matt Hunter. Haha. Well maybe.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob B
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: August 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Falcon, AFA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Bicyclevillage
Strengths:
Price, great standard features, do-it-all bike, 32lbs with XL frame, great on wide variety of trails.
Weaknesses:
No lock-out on rear shock - would be even more versatile for running XC trails, tracking on uphill.
Bike Setup:
Stock except Specialized Milano Gel saddle, Fast Trak Armadillo Elite 2.2 front tire, Fast Trak LK Armadillo Elite 2.0 rear tire.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for my first $1000+ model. Runs downhill and hills great, able to handle most technical stuff with speed. Fall behind my buddy on smooth XC trails (he has a carbon frame hard-tail)...but I blow him away when it comes to downhill and rough/technical trail. Low BB height does require my attention at times. At 175lbs I feel the Fox DHX Air 4.0 may be near max for rough riding (I use max recommended PSI) - not sure how well it will do for heavier riders. I havn't had it bottom out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BILL
a Weekend Warrior
from CO Date Reviewed: July 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
keystone
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
Price, build kit frame and shocks.
Weaknesses:
brakes I am used to much bigger breaks being an ex downhiller/4xer. Pluse I weigh 240lbs
Similar Products Used:
Santacruz Heckler
Bike Setup:
stock for now. soon to come DEE MAXX wheels hope 4 piston brakes.
Bottom Line:
great trail bike one of the best I have ridden.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mrhappy
a Weekend Warrior
from Hartford CT Date Reviewed: July 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Case Mountain
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Sunshine Cycle, Colc
Strengths:
Great Trail Bike. Climbs hills easily. Love the way it looks. I bought this bike on close out last December. This bike was awesome in the snow. I tear it up on the singletrack.
Weaknesses:
rear tire always rubbing . Heavy
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
somewhat dissapointed, everytime the tire rubs from regular riding. Any way too fix this? I would like to try a few different bikes now. This was my first Full Suspension bike. There are so Many awesome bikes to choose from nowadays.
Good luck, and find a good LBS. Service after you buy the bike is key!
go,go,go!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jasper
a Downhiller
from Netherlands Date Reviewed: March 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Toblerone Freeride Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
This bike is stable on the downhills. Gives a lot of confidence on steep rollers. Stock kit is solid. The frame is super strong, I've done 2 Ft drops and no problems occurred.
Weaknesses:
The DHX Air 4 has a weak midstroke. Weird shock sizes, you cannot buy an aftermarket shock cause of the stroke size ( 2.25" ) Why does it only has 140mm of travel, instead of the 150mm on the expert and pro versions.
Similar Products Used:
Nomad
Bike Setup:
Stock. Bar and stem both FSA, Just installed a 66Sl instead of the pike. Pedals are Shimano DX
Bottom Line:
This bike is perfect if you are looking for a light freeride bike. It rips the downhills and jumps good. Uphill is kind of hard but it can be done if you take your time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Poulsbo, WA, US Date Reviewed: February 20, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Everett WA
Strengths:
Solid construction, Components were fine for me, I'm 230 and don't jump off cliffs so the suspension & brakes work great!
Weaknesses:
Seat is more suited for a colonoscopy for my fat ass.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Liquid & Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I would highly recommend this bike even though I've only had it a month. There are lots of adjustments you can make on this bike, and it was pretty painless to dial it in. I don't plan on too many upgrades except another seat and a good Lock!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dorcuss Malorcuss
a Weekend Warrior
from Joisey Date Reviewed: February 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Monster at Blue
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1599.00
Purchased At:
Efingers
Strengths:
Price, specs, climbs better than I thought, super plush , corners better than my ML, do I need to go on?
Weaknesses:
I hate early reviews but I had to chime in, no weaknesses so far.
Similar Products Used:
I own a Titus ML, Maverick Reposado, a29erSS, and have owned many other FS bikes.
Bike Setup:
Stock 07 Elite but with an 07 Vanilla 140 up front and an XT Cassette (saved a lot of weight in the butt)
Bottom Line:
O.K. I am going against many beliefs here but Specialized is blowing the 07's out on Close Out so I thought it would be apropriate to give a premature evaluation. I have never been a fan of Specialized at all period. This summer I had the chance to demo an 08 Enduro SL and I flat out hated it. The Specialized suspension was a pain in the arse to tune and the front end was too heavy feeling and made me shy away from the smallest drops. I then was looking for something a little bit beefier than my ml with a not so XC feeling. My LBS put me on the Elite and I loved it but didn't like the price tag, then he told me that they were discounted to $1600. It came with a Floatrl 130 which I put on my ML (perfect for that bike) and put on a Vanilla 140 which is a lot stiffer and has a longer axle to crown legth. This bike has put a smile on my face like no other bike. It climbs the slow technical stuff better than any bike I have, probably because all bumps are eliminated. And it bombs down hill with a point and shoot attitude. I have been running the frame in the slack geometry mode and like the way it feels in corners , climbing etc. The only thing that will bug you is the low BB height, it hits a lot. I set it up in the steep mode but only rode it lightly. It feels more XC and since I am not looking for that I will switch it back but the BB is higher. This bike is steady in the air and the front end pops up nice and easy which is important because I am an old fart. I am debating selling my ML due to the fact that this bike is more than I expected, but time will tell. It is a different animal altogether than other bikes in the 5-5.5" range, more AM/FR than Trail.
The reviews were pretty good and I took a chance and am lucky I did. If your LBS still has one get it!
33lbs even with heavy pedals. My scale is correct
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Damien
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa, FL. USA Date Reviewed: January 30, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Strengths:
Durable, relatively lightweight.
Weaknesses:
Already had 3 items warrantied: rear shock, crankset, and cracked chainstay. Specialized and Fox were both great with regards to the warranties.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
A little heavy for XC trails, but with a set of 2.20 tires make a huge difference in handling and speed. Apparently several people have broken the rear chainstay, but it seems that Specialized has been very prompt with their warranty replacement.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Gutierrez
a Weekend Warrior
from Mission Viejo, CA. USA Date Reviewed: January 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
San Juan Downhill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1399.00
Purchased At:
Wheelworld
Strengths:
Everything! High quality Fox suspension, brakes, frame geometry..
Weaknesses:
A little heavy at about 31 pounds. This can be fixed with light weight component upgrades. Lets face it, everyone loves to upgrade components anyway! Also beware that the bottom bracket is low. This doesn't really bother me because there is a huge benifit for having a low bottom bracket, lower center of gravity = better cornering. This makes it possible to hit you pedals on the ground while cornering, but if you pay attention to what you are doing this wont happen.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinky, Marin Riftzone, Specialized Stump Jumper
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
I LOVE this bike! I've been riding it for the last three months now and can't get enough. Compared to the Kona Stinky I had before, this thing shreds! It's about 5 pounds lighter, the suspension is alot higher quality, the geometry helps make those sharp turns and gives you a bit more control. My skill level has gone up alot because of this bike. Before I would go through rocks and bumpy sections slowly because of the po-go stick forks on the stinky, and the weight tired me out and slowed me down. But now I am keeping up with my friends and flying over rock sections!! Just floating over them! I am a very happy owner of my Enduro Elite. I am also looking forward to upgrading the bike to make it even lighter..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arthur Johnson
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: January 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Trail 100, Cathedral Rock
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2237.00
Purchased At:
Bike Barn
Strengths:
this bike is smooth and responsive, perfect amount of travel for an all mountain bike, with the ability of it still being lite. "Around 31 pounds, i believe"
Weaknesses:
low center of gravity, If your not careful in turns you will hit a pedal, for sure. steering wonders when climbing steep hills. learning the different crank setup since there is only 2 chainrings in the front and 9 cassettes in the rear it's just harder to find the perfect gear.
Similar Products Used:
K2 attack 2.0 is the most similar, but oh so different
Bike Setup:
stock, i have'nt done anything to it other than 2 new tube's and thorn resistance tire lining's just to be sure.
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike for anyone who want's a nice full suspension that can really do just about anything. its great for the money and can really change your whole perspective on MTB riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gazza Due
a
from Motueka, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Lyndon Saddle
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Coppins Outdoors
Strengths:
Solid frame. Genuine fully active suspension. Versatility of the bike. It can be beefed up for super-D or light duty free-ride/Dh or lightend up and used for back country single-track missions and everything in between. Climbing traction is great for a longish travel bike.
Weaknesses:
I do find that the rear wheel is a little more difficult to seat than other bikes. This is a general comment about Specialized bikes because of the position of the Horst Link.
Similar Products Used:
Other people's Enduro's were tested lots before buying.
Bike Setup:
I switched the forks for Marzocchi All Mountain SL1's. I wanted 20mm axle and an adjustable Itallian bit. Also built up some lighter wheels with Hope ProII hubs. Yay! 2008 XT disc brakes with 7"fr and 6"rr. Race Face seat post. Race Face grips. DX spd's
Bottom Line:
Wow! This bike does everything I need. I'm into singletrack more than anything else and this bike loves it. I'm also the kind of rider who adjusts suspension for the terrain so I'm stoked with the pro-pedal dial on the Fox DHX4. I am a totally biased Specialized rider now. I think they do their homework and are a legit company.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Downhiller
from Guildford Date Reviewed: September 22, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
It can do everyting srong enough for dh and freeride but light enough for cross country. GREAT BIKE
Weaknesses:
Needs a coupl of stronger parts for full on freeride thrasing
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler
Bike Setup:
stock apart from Race face stem, deity bars, sdg saddle and E13 bashring
Bottom Line:
This bike is brilliant love it to bits would recomend it fully can do everything from slopestyle to xc rides with a few changes this bike is great so versitille a real do everything machine
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Downhiller
from Bristol Date Reviewed: September 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Cwm Carn DH & XC
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Strengths:
In one word, versatile. In a few more: Perfect geometry. Light enough to be agile and climb well, tough enough for proper downhill racing. Corners like it's on rails. A couple of modifications make the world of difference
Weaknesses:
A couple of modifications make the world of difference! Due to it's length, it's a bit cumbersome in the air and on switch backs. But come on you can't always have your cake and eat it!
Similar Products Used:
As I said in a previous review, it crosses almost every boundary, so in a way it's similar to every bike I've ridden
Bike Setup:
Too many upgrades to list! The most important ones are: 50mm (made the biggest impact so far) Thomson stem and elite seatpost. Fox 36R TALAS forks (100/130/160mm). Hope Pro2 hubs (10mm & 20mm bolt through) laced to mavic XM819 rims. Full width bars are also a worthwhile upgrade, I run syncros bulk
Bottom Line:
A few key upgrades make this the ultimate do everything bike. If this was a frame review it would get 5/5 in both counts but as it could do with a few key upgrades I'm gonna give it a 4. If you have to buy one bike, make it the older style Enduro. Don't buy the new one as it's pants! (or underwear if you're american)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Arcega
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary,Alberta,Canada Date Reviewed: August 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Elbow loop and moose packers trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
the bike shop
Strengths:
This bike transistioned me from a timid cross coutry trail guy to the dukes of hazzard. It's slack geometry and low center of gravity helps it dive through turns while having just enough travel to keep from bucking you off on those tooth chattering descents. It's weight I found was an asset to the bike. Having that little extra to drag up hills really increased my stregth and endurance. All and all"the bike made me take risks and increased my confidence"If you want to push your limits a little ad do some minor stunts and drops,this is the bike for you
Weaknesses:
"the bike made me take more risks and increased my confidence" someone should have mentioned it won't help your judgement.If you're picky about every little gram,look away because this thing is built like a light amoured vehicle.
Similar Products Used:
rocky mountain slayer
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
It's my do any thing,deal with any terrain bike.If I'm riding a familiar trail with docile terrain,I'll ride my XC.If I'm riding into the unknown and more hotile terrain,it's the enduro all the way.It's bullet proof and has survived everything I've thrown at it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Ward
a Weekend Warrior
from Laramie, WY Date Reviewed: August 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Happy Jack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Used in Fort Collins, CO
Strengths:
Suspension, brakes, shifting, everything
Weaknesses:
The rear shock does not lock out entirely (at least not to my knowledge). This would help on long climbs.
Similar Products Used:
My first full suspension bike
Bike Setup:
Everything is stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is freakin' ridiculous! If you are looking to make the transition from a mediocre bike to a really nice bike, I would recommend spending a little more to get this dream machine. This bike has the capabilities to do simple dirt jumps, cross-country biking, and downhill biking. I recently took this bike to Keystone, CO for the first time for some downhill biking and it handled it really well. I had to play with the shocks to get the right suspension, but it was very nice. For example, as a joke, my friends took me down a double-black diamond run as a warm up (first run) and it handled like a champ. I am very happy with this purchase!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terry
a Cross Country Rider
from Creston, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: June 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
"7 Summits" in Rossland
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Base, Fernie BC
Strengths:
It's a good weight for a freeride bike. Fairly strong components and spec'd nicely for the money. When you get a nice flowy trail where you carry your speed this bike is money in the bank.
Weaknesses:
1-The bottom bracket is too low and the crank arms/pedals hit the ground regularly when you're cornering while pedaling, riding across a hill (the up hill pedal catches) or on uneven ground while pedaling. (don't let that guy's comment about ripping corners hard fool you, it happens regularly) 2-although the DHX air shock is sweet, if you're into heavy riding or are in the clidesdale division, it won't have the lifespan of a spring shock. (don't get me wrong though, it performs nicely, and I wish it had full lock out on the propedal. If your concerned about that then the SX trail might be a better bet for you. 3-it doesn't track nicely one the climbs. (no bike in this category that performs as well coming back down will though). The front tire really wants to wander.
Similar Products Used:
I tested the stinky as well. If you're into the heavier riding and were considering both I'd go with the Kona. If You know how to pedal and want to rip this bike beats it hands down.
Bike Setup:
I ride my bikes stock and only replace when I break something. I've warrentied my shock because it got "stuck down" which fox says is "normal", and my crank because the arm became unfused (which doesn't happen often, so I wouldn't worry). Both were covered with the warrenty and were returned in less then 10 days. Good service.
Bottom Line:
Anyone who drops a couple grand on a bike isn't going to come here and bash it knowing that they made a mistake. My review here is pretty honest though and I dish out the abuse on this thing when I'm riding.
If you're a downhiller only, this probably isn't the bike for you. Go with something with a slacker geom.
If you're a cross country racer, this for sure isn't the bike for you. It's too heavy and not efficient enough for you. If your buddies try to make your heart explode by pedaling your ass into the ground every saturday morning, don't get this bike. You'll kill them on the downhills, but there are much better pedaling bikes out there.
If you want an all mountain ripper that you can pedal to the top, pedal all day, and cook on the flowy trails and parks, get this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Downhiller
from Bristol Date Reviewed: March 20, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Cwm Carn Twrch Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2150.00
Purchased At:
Total Fitness, Bath
Strengths:
Your first thought when you see this in the brochure is "this only has 130mm front/140mm rear travel" but this is actually a good thing!, the same frame with less travel = lower centre of gravity, therefore better handling. Adjustable geometry and air shocks means you only need one bike, a shock pump and a multi-tool and you have a Downhill/Freeride bike and a trail (not XC) bike in one! The bike corners exceptionaly well even with the bottom bracket in the high setting. Lower the bottom bracket, set 33% sag and it absolutely rips at high speed. Is very composed in the air and when the trail gets super gnarly. Climbs well with the saddle up and if you're clipped in. Solid kit for the money, sram is faultless, as are the avid brakes. Don't know why no-one likes the saddle, it's bloody lovely!
Weaknesses:
Build kit is slightly on the lightweight side of tough if you know what I mean. Seatpost isn't that strong, replaced with Thomson, forks could have been better thought out, why spec a £500 130mm unit when some £400 pikes or Z1's with a bolt-thru would have matched the attitude of the bike much better? Bars are too narrow, even for XC in my opinion. Bottom bracket wears out in no time at all, replaced with shimano saint hollowtech 2 crankset. Cranks clip the ground, but that's the price you pay for good cornering.
Similar Products Used:
This bike crosses so many boundaries that I can compare it to almost every bike I've ridden... Santa Cruz VPFree, Blur 4X, Nomad. Rocky Mountain Slayer. Specialized 07 Enduro SL, 06 SX trail, 05 S-Works Epic, 07 BigHit 2, 06 Enduro Expert. Kona Coiler Delux, Marin Attack Trail, Turner 6-pack, Giant Reign.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Thomson seatpost & stem, Syncros BULK riser bars (very light, wide, stiff and comfortable). Shimano Saint cranks, X.9 rear mech snapped off, replaced with 07 X.7 - just as good. Hope headset and BULB hubs (in gold, of course) laced to mavic XM321's and intense system 4 2.25" tyres (awesome). Pike dual air units fitted currently, awaiting Lyrik U-turns.
Bottom Line:
Can it do everything?
As it is, it has the right geometry for every type of riding, it's like a slightly bigger 4X bike. However the Floats aren't quite stiff enough for the rest of the bike. Sure they'll get you down a full on DH track, just not in complete control. Slap on some 140mm-160mm travel 20mm bolt-throughs and you have a bike that'll tear up a DH track yet not upset the climbing geometry and still be light enough to pedal up steep hills all day. Pound for pound, the elite is easily the best one to plump for in the 06 Enduro range. The geometry is on the money more so than any other bike I've ever ridden (Including the new Enduro SL). The build kit is sensible, the gears shift sweetly and the brakes are very powerful with good (1 year!) pad life, but parts such as seatposts and cranks may be worth upgrading with more hardcore items as they wear out.
The way the Enduro crosses boundaries is fantastic, luring riders into doing things that would usually be outside of thier comfort zone. This bike will honestly make you a better and fitter rider. XC riders will attack trails harder, DH riders won't mind slogging it up hills all day.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cara
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston Date Reviewed: February 13, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
West End Bicycle
Strengths:
This bike rocks. Despite having problems with the brakes, they still stop on the dime. (Saved me from getting hit by a car coming out of a parking garage) So far, it handles everything I've thrown at it including some descent jumps. Downhills are great, just point and go. It doesn't matter what's in front of it. I like the wider tires. They provide a ton of stability. This is my first full suspension bike and I picked a good one. I was looking at this bike and the Stuntjumper FSR Comp. I feel like I have a lot more control on this bike as opposed to the other one. This one fits me better. Plus it's a cush ride.
Weaknesses:
I've had more problems with the brakes then anything else. This is my 4th time to take it back to the shop. Avid's finally gonna replace them. The saddle definitely has to go. For short hauls, it's fine, but anything longer than a couple of hours and you start to notice.
Bike Setup:
All Stock
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is this bike handles great either on trails or jumping off fun stuff. I wouldn't trade this bike for any other. This bike promotes confidence and the ability to do anything. I love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Irvine, CA, USA Date Reviewed: December 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The 3 B's
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Rock n Road Cyclery
Strengths:
The Enduro Elite is a great all round full suspension bike. Strong Frame for "my" big frame. Good all-around suspension. Rides good on the flat trails with the girl friend and certainly handled Most of the Mammoth Mountain trails with no problem. Hige brake rotors are awesome!
Weaknesses:
Stock handle bars are too low for taller riders. Stock saddle offers little comfort, especially for longer rides. It would be nice to lock out the rear shock for some situations, but its rare.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Stock Enduro Elite with Shimano M-545 pedals and Protaper riser bars.
Bottom Line:
This was my very first full suspension bike, so I dont have much experience to compare it to I used to ride a Haro hard-tail; making this switch a Specialized a night and day experience. I did a lot or research and I was looking for the best bang for the buck. Specialized has a good reputation where I live, and although there are many other manufacutures out there, I wanted to buy a reputable bike from a reputable dealer that could take care of me in my area. If you are a taller rider like me (6,5', 240lbs). This bike will work fine. I recommend some taller bars, and a bigger/more comfortable saddle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Hobbs
a
from Swanage UK Date Reviewed: November 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Amasa back Moab
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bikescene
Strengths:
Great do it all bike. Tracks the ground and corners amazingly well. Good spec. Great value for money. Best bike I have owned.
Weaknesses:
Shock failed in 3hours, sorted on warrenty within two days. Rear shock mounting collects mud, sorted with mud flap. Personal, Bars too narrow, Saddle uncomfortable, Tyres clog in mud.
Similar Products Used:
Owned Santa Cruz Heckler, Santa Cruz Bullit, Keewee Cromolite, Craftworks 125frm. Many other bikes tried or demoed
Bike Setup:
Swapped forks for RS Pike, Swapped wheels for Hope hubs Mavic rims, Swapped front tyre for Maxxis high roller, Swapped saddle for Fizik Nisene.
Bottom Line:
This is a top trail bike for a bargain price, a little heavy for racing but for ever thing else its perfect.
Buy this bike if you want to ride everywhere and have fun doing it, Don't buy it if you only go Xc racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Racer
from Santa Cruz, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Soquel Demo or UCSC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
TRAILHEAD CYCLERY
Strengths:
AWESOME everything bike. Suspention is amazing love the air all around. Breaks stop me in no time at all.
Weaknesses:
none really a little heavy (32lbs)considering i use it for xc but it is well worth it i think for comin down the mountain. can keep up with bullits and bighits but destroy them up the hill. and i didnt like the stock tires but they worked fairly well not significant enough to take away from the bike.
Similar Products Used:
Only messin around on friends bikes.
Bike Setup:
Only thing changed is pedals (CB 50 50s/XTR)bar and grips (Race Face Diablos, OURY lock-on)
Bottom Line:
Amazing everythin bike. I can climb with the xc riders and descend with the dh riders. oh and it jumps too :). recommend it to anyone lookin to a good general bike with an affordable price tag
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Worth Date Reviewed: September 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
anywhere there is dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Bikes Inc-Hulen Shop
Strengths:
This bike has everything you need. For what it cost you really do not need to upgrade anything for functional reasons. The suspension is well mated to the function of the bike.
Weaknesses:
The only beef I had was with the seat. That is more of a personal thing, easily fixed.
Similar Products Used:
I own several other Mt Bikes from hardtails to XC FS.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is the best mountain bike I have ever ridden. First lets get the weight issue and hill climbing complaints out of the way. I knew the thing was a little on the heavy side when I bought it, thus logic would lead one to belief that I would not be able to climb hills like my XC FS. I did not buy this to win races or blaze up hills. It is not as heavy on the trails as you would think.
I noted my times going up hills that were more technical were actually faster because I did not have to finace the bike around objects, just ride over them.
Once you crest the hill grab some gears and hold on because you are going down fast and with confidence. Sit back and enjoy the view and if you are worried about speed you will make up the time on the downside. Keep the speed up and hit the flats and keep going. If you are ridding any trail with technical areas and your buddies are on XC rigs you will leave them and they will never catch you.
If you have a notion when comming up on drops keep the speed up and catch some air. When you hit the ground you will continue to pedal creating more distance as your buddies are picking their way down the rocky terrain that there XC bikses are trembling and slipping over. I set the seat a little bacl to center weight over the back and climb in the saddle with very little bob. This also allows me to just pull on the handlebar a little and pop the front end to tackle any little obstacle in front as I climb. A lot of credit goes to the shop and John for getting this dialed in. It is dialed in. I rode a trail that in the past has made me think a little before I would attempt some of the technical areas. This time I put the hammer down and plowed down the trail and had a blast.
I do not know if this would be a wise choice for serious downhill stuff. I am not into that and will never use it for such. It is not a XC or downhill bike but will eat up everything in between.
Everyone can find faults in anything out there these days. We can nit pick until it would be impossible to build the perfect bike. With so many choices on the market today it really comes down to what do "you want" and how deep is the wallet. Save up and buy this thing. It will not let you down. This thing is a blast to ride, it looks cool, and it will not leave you stranded on the trail. If weight is the only issue holding you back just remember the term All Mountain versus X Country. This bike surprised the heck out of me. The suspension is smooth and takes the hits. You can just look at the thing and know it will take about anything you throw down. It reminds me of a wolf in sheeps clothing. I know 2600 dollars is alot of money but if you buy several cheaper bikes to do one specific thing you are cutting yourself short. Save the money and buy one bike. I wish I had. I will be selling my other FS and one of my hardtails. I will keep the XC FS because I got a great deal on it and love it as well. Maybe I will use it to commute to work. When the trails are tough I know the Enduro is my ride for the day.
Five flammers because I ride like a maniac know and am alive to do it again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Des
a Weekend Warrior
from Bunbury WA Australia Date Reviewed: July 2, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Sweet plush ride. A solid, slightly heavy, all mountain bike that pedals as well as it descends.
Weaknesses:
Few warranty issues, the fox air shock stuck down, but all fixed under warranty.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized XC 2004.
Bike Setup:
Still stock, can't see anything changing in the near future
Bottom Line:
I brought this bike as it was as far as my budget extended into the enduro line up. Love the ride - especially downhill and don't really notice that much when it comes to pedalling back up. The juicy 5's are noisey at the moment but I hope that will settle down over time. I would have to say that this is an awesome bike for the money and I would advise anyone who is thinking of buying a bike from the enduro range to get to their LBS and just do it - you wont be sorry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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