And with dual sealed cartridge bearings, massive 15mm main pivot bearing axle, our quad bearing option, Fox Pro Pedal, Progressive 5th Element Air, and Romic coil shock options, heavy duty swingarm option, and travel options ranging from 4” to 6”, X-5 can change like a chameleon from race bike to light, black diamond hucker, making it our most versatile FS chassis ever.
5” of travel, x-brace top tube, options galore, Ventana quality, Ventana design, Ventana “Electric Sex” welds, Ventana silky smooth CNC machine work, and Ventana in-house production all add up to one hot performer…X-5! Believe it!
Submitted by
BigLou52
a Cross Country Rider
from Freehold NJ Date Reviewed: November 29, 2008
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Turner Santa cruz Jamis
Bike Setup:
Chris King wheelset.Sram XO, Fox Talas, Hayes Discs.RP3
Bottom Line:
I am a true Cyldesale,Broke my 04 X5 frame at the seat tube. Teresa, a great help, put me in touch with Haywood,who gave me the option of either fixing my current front triangle or building me a new frame with a reinforced seatube,at a great price. Their customer service is great and the bike rides like a dream. great bike for a heavyweight. Thanks to Ventana for hooking me up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary Kelly
a Weekend Warrior
from Canberra Date Reviewed: March 19, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mt Majura
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
second hand on web
Strengths:
Beautiful finish, and looks great. The frame is very stiff, while the ride is smooth. I was looking for a frame to build a lite all purpose MTB, and this one meets that requirement. I wanted a good climbing bike, and it performs well there also. Good quality and low maintenance.
Weaknesses:
Expensive
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS Air, Gary Fisher Procaliber, Norco VPS Fluid 2.
Bike Setup:
Ventanna X5, Sram 0 drive, Juicy Carbons, Fox Talas R 32, Truvative Carbon Crank, Spinergy Wheels
Bottom Line:
Im an older rider (55), and a bit tall for half my weight:) So I was looking for a solid performer that could build into a reasonably light package, and handle the range of terrains.
I liked all my previous bikes, but none of them covered all the bases for me. The Giant climbed and handled well, and was very light, but was jarring especially for a heavier rider. Norco Fluid was very solid, great for the down bits, but a lot of work the other way. Procaliber was good fun to ride, but a bit flexy for me.
The X5 just does it all, without fuss, or too much attention. I will stick with this bike for a long time:)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Manitou Springs, CO Date Reviewed: November 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Monarch Crest, Jones Park-Pipeline-7 Bridges
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Wrench Science
Strengths:
Durable Frame, Once Dialed in with correct fork and rear shock a nice plush ride. I ride an 04 21" and the geometery is pretty good. Good stand over height. Bottom bracket is in just about the right height. Not to low that you hit the peddles on every rock (just a few) and not so high it feels wierd cornering.
Weaknesses:
Cracked the bottom chain stay near the bottom braket pivot after 3 years. Constantly cutting my knees on the cable routing mounts along the top tube. Ovaled out the pivot mount in the frame next to the bottom bracket (say good bye to lateral stiffness). I'm getting picky now - Sherwood should offer an annodized frame mine has lots of rock chips. Replaceable rear derailleur hanger tends to strip the threads in the bottom deraileur hanger mount on the bottom chain stay when the hanger gets bent.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumer FSR
Bike Setup:
XT Crankset, Avid Juicy Carbon brakes, SRAM XO grip shift with XO rear deraileur, XTR Front Deraileur, 07 Fox Float 140 mm Front Fork, Pushed Fox RP3 Rear Shock, XTR rear cassette, Mavic Crossmax wheels for abuse and 07 Shimano XTR Disc wheels for racing.
Bottom Line:
It's a good bike. Although I have broken this bike a few times I probably would have destroyed most other bikes by now. I don't think it deserves 5 chilis though (it's not that stiff laterally. Stumpjumper FSR was alot stiffer). I have had this bike for 3 years now. I put over 2000 miles on this bike this year alone training for Leadville. At least 1000 miles every previous year. I am 6'4" 190 lbs and I ride aggresively. The bike weighs around 29 lbs when I put the XTR wheels on. I bought this bike to ride anything and everything. It has served that purpose quite well. 3 Foot drops in Moab to nice long abusive rides around Colorado. Not a XC racer but repectable uphill preformance. Very nice downhill. I cracked the bottom chain stay as mentioned above. Sherwood said he has seen that before (he said the cause was excessive forces during pedaling.. go figure)and I asked for a free replacment but was forced to buy one. He suggested I buy the bottom chain stay from the tandem (he was kind enough to sell me a used one) because it has a welded plate in the area that cracked. Look it's a bike like most other bikes. It squeaks. Parts wear out. I have replaced the pivot bearings 3 times. Wore out the 5th element that came with the bike. Wore out the RP3 that I replaced it with. Had the RP3 rebuilt at Push industies(very high recommendation). Gone through 4 rear deraileur hangers. The biggest problem spot is the pivot next to the bottom bracket. The 2 piece aluminum axle tends to come loose after about 500 miles of riding no matter what I do (loctite 242, Loctite 222). This is problematic because the only way to tighten it is to remove the crank. I just rebuild the bike around 500 miles every time now. The frame barrel for the bottom pivot next to the bottom bracket has ovaled out and the bike is not so stiff laterally any more (also the source of the loud squeeks). Cable routing is not so good as the cable guides on the top tube make nice little cuts on the side of your knee and the cables wear nice grooves in the frame. The upper chain stay could use some stiffness in the rear disk brake mount area. The frame sets up a nasty resonance during rear breaking. The warranty leaves a lot to be desired. Quad pivot bearing replacements are expensive. Sherwood has been fair but calling it great customer service would be a stretch. If your a roadie or XC racer look at different bikes. If you are into DH look at different bikes. If you like epic long fun rides in the mountains or desert then this is a good bike. Remember it is all relative to your skills. A pro XC racer or pro DH will probably dust most people on a huffy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eskdaler
a Weekend Warrior
from Thousand Oaks, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Backbone Tunnels
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
Mountain High Cyclery
Strengths:
Rock Solid. Downhills like a champ. Sucks up everything in its path. Beautifully designed and constructed. Ventana really knows how to build a bike. For how well it goes down, it doesn't do too bad on the up.
Weaknesses:
Not real fond of the cable routing over the top of the tube.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Blur Classic Cannondale Jekyl
Bike Setup:
Frame - Ventana X-5 Quad Bearings Driveline - 2007 XTR Shifters - Rapid Rise 2007 XTR Pods Brakes - XTR Disc Wheels - Industry 9 Enduro Tires - Panaracer Fire XC Pro Tubeless 2.1 Fork - Fox TALAS 32 RLC
Bottom Line:
I am a big guy for a mountain biker. 6 foot plus and 200 lbs plus. I'm convinced that most mountain bikes aren't built for people my size, so when I heard that Ventana built a bike that could take the abuse, I decided to make the change. I also made the decision to purchase the Ventana X-5 because I was tired of the constant issues with the bearings on the Blur. Even though I must say I love the performance of the Blur on the climbs, and in this category it still out performs the X-5; it requires constant maintenance and just isn't built for big riders. I see all the comments under the Blur reviews about how a little bit of maintenance solves this issue; but I assure you that I am fastidious with the maintenance of my bike, and one month after anti-seizing the pivots, the squeak is back.
From a performance standpoint, I didn't realize how the Blur was holding me back on the downhills until I rode the X-5. I increased my downhill speed instantly by 25%. Also, my confidence increased with the speed. I now take drops that I wouldn't have considered on the Blur.
The design and quality of craftsmanship on the X-5 is far superior to the Blur (and to any other bike I've borrowed or rented for that matter). While I like the Blur, Santa Cruz seems to take no responsibility for the lack of quality in the mechanics of the virtual pivot. Ventana has taken the time to make sure this bike can handle the abuse that is inevitable in mountain biking. This is a machine that will take the hits day after day and not lose an iota of performance... including no squeaks or groans. How many bikes can you say that about!
In addition to the bike performance, Shimano seems to have gotten the issues with the 2003 XTR (what I have on the Blur) figured out on the 2007 XTR. The braking and shifting are much improved.
Larry at Mountain High and Sherwood at Ventana were both extremely helpful in getting the right bike and then getting it set up right. The long lead time on the wheels had me really impatient by the time I got the bike, but they were worth the wait.
While this is a lot to spend for a bike, every time I rent a quality bike where they seem to always use lower level components, it makes me realize that to get the full enjoyment of the ride, you need the machine to work flawlessly. This bike definitely delivers in this department!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wyatt
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore Date Reviewed: September 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Loch Raven's Merryman's
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Baltimore Bicycles
Strengths:
No lateral flex, almost no shock bob when in the saddle and minimal out of saddle, great standover clearance. Excellent suspension, supremely smooth and such an improvement over my 1996 Ventana Marble Peak, Santa Cruz Superlight and Giant NRS. The X5 is so graceful at sucking up the bumps. I have spinal arthritis and my back feels much less strain than other FS bikes.
Weaknesses:
No dealers anywhere near me, but Ventana has a try before buying program. It isn't inexpensive, though it is still a better value than a number of others I can think of that cost more but aren't better. In its class it is a great buy, so I guess it isn't a weakness.
Similar Products Used:
1996 Ventana Marble Peak Santa Cruz Superlight and Giant NRS, lots of hardtails.
Bike Setup:
XTR cranks and derailleurs, Grip Shift shifters, DT Swiss 4.1 wheels, Dean ti seatpost, Magura Marta brakes. Fox Talas RLC fork. Fox Float R with the PUSH modification which I consider required for Fox shocks. It transformed the suspension behavior.
Bottom Line:
If you can afford it, you should or an X5 or another Ventana frame/ bike. I can't imagine a bike being as stiff and solid feeling. Although being heavier to achieve this (7 lbs. for large), it feels as efficient pedaling as lighter bikes. There is no perception of being heavy. The suspension works terrifically yet doesn't have a bobbing issue like so many others. It feels very balanced and easy on the body. The Giant NRS didn't bob but felt more like a hardtail in comparison. Climbing is great; it digs in and will ascend anything you can push the cranks up. The company service sets the standard. That hasn't changed since my first contact when I owned a Ventana Marble Peak. How could an FS bike be better than being this laterally stiff, having great standover clearance, efficient pedaling, and huge amount of usable travel? And you can speak to the guy who designed the bike Sherwood Gibson, almost any time you call. If not, his right hand woman Teresa is also terrific. Ventana sets a standard for any kind of company.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big Shane
a Downhiller
from Newbury Park Date Reviewed: September 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anything dirty and technical
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
NPLO
Strengths:
Stiff laterally. Supple suspension. Paint quality. Construction unparalled. Beautiful welds. Can't be matched. Customer Service. Personality.
08 Talas 36 RC2, I9 Enduro's SWEET!!!(Thanks Jeff and Brandi at I9),King headset, Easton EA90 stem, Monkeylite Carbon bar,Thompson Elite, SalsaQR, X9 shifters and R-derailleur, XTR crank, Xt FD and Cassette, HFX with goodridge and Staitline levers and bar caps with OURY lock ons. Small Block 8 andBlue Groove. Anything missed?
Bottom Line:
If you want a bike that (flipping kicks A$$) is backed by a company that believes in the product they sell and you want to know that you are a part of the customer base not just quota then look no further. I have dealt with almost every bike company in the US and Ventana is above the "best". Sherwood and Theresa are awesome and I will be a Ventana customer for life. I have access to highly discounted bikes from other major companies but this company impressed me enough to spend close to 7x what I needed to spend to get a "bike". I got a piece of ART and I am happy as can be. Thanks again Sherwood and the best ever Theresa.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Willem Boom
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, Oregon Date Reviewed: July 11, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Mzarek / Metolius Windigo
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Village Bike & Ski - Sunriver, OR
Strengths:
EVERYTHING. Just awesome. I had a Ventana Pantera before and purchased the X-5 from the mechanic at Village Bike and Ski in Sunriver, OR. Both are great bikes. Similar front end geometry. The increase in travel, while maintaining if not increasing the stiffness is just amazing! Quality of the frame is superb. The paint "Grinch Green", the welds, rear suspension (upgraded to quad bearings), and the legendary customer service from Ventana all add up to a great experience. I have put about 140 miles on the bike thus far. This includes mixed trail types with lots of climbing, rocks, loose soil (sandy), and log jumps. The uphills and downhills have been great. The X-5 Climbs really well and decends even better with the five inches of rear travel.
Weaknesses:
This bike is solid. NONE
Similar Products Used:
Ventana Pantera, Jamis Bikes, Gary Fisher, Trek, etc..
Bike Setup:
X-5 Frame in Grinch Green Fox Float 130 RLC Fork Fox Float R Rear Shock (going to PUSH in the winter) Chris King Headset Shimano XTR Front and Rear Derailleurs Shimano XT Cassette SRAM Chain Shimano XT Dual Control Brake Levers and Shifters Shimano XT Brake Calipers and Rotors Shimano XT Crankset and Rings Shimano XTR Pedals Thomson Stem and Thomson Masterpiece Seatpost WTB Rocket V SLT RACE Saddle Yeti Carbon Handlebar ODI Lock-On Grips LP Carbon Bar Ends JR Maxxis Ignitor 2.35 Tires (still haven't gone UST - Soon!) Mavic 721 Disc Wheelset with XT Hubs (upgrade coming soon)
Bottom Line:
Get it if you can afford it... Maybe sell your bigscreen TV or something like that!! It is worth it! TV sucks anyway!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a
from Chesapeake, VA Date Reviewed: June 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
UPS/MPS/LPS/Porc Rim
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Ventana
Strengths:
Everything!
Weaknesses:
Nothing!
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS, Santa Cruz Heckler, Turner 5-spot, Gary Fisher Hi Fi
Bike Setup:
2007 17" X-5 Frame w/quad bearings and 5" rockers, 2006 Marzochi All Mountain 1 (150-160mm), 2007 Pushed RP23, 185 mm Avid Juicy 7s front and back. X-9 shifters, X-9 rear derailuer, Shimano LX front derailuer, Race Face Atlas Cranks w/ x-type BB, Thompson 90 mm stem, Easton Carbon lo-rise bars, King hubs w/ front Bontrager mustang rim and a rear DT 5.1 built by Dave Thomas.
Bottom Line:
I am writing another review as I have moved from a 2004 X-5 to a 2007 X-5. There were some design changes after 2004. I LOVED my 2004. After trashing the frame by backing into a tree stump while the bike was hanging on a hitch mounted rack...I traded the frame in for an 07 with Ventana's trade in or customer loyalty program.
The 07 has a slacker head angle than the 04. When I first got on the bike, it felt a bit strange. Wasn't too sure if I'd like it as much as the 04.
But, man is it SWEET. I really thought that there was no way to imporove upon my 04 X-5. But, I rode it last night on a mostly XC trail with a few jumps here and there. The bike was incredible. Felt even more stable, more smooth, and somehow seemed to pedal even easier.
If you are thinking about a Ventana...quit thinking and buy it. Again, this is the single best purchase I have ever made for myself.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brandon
a Weekend Warrior
from jackson, wy Date Reviewed: June 17, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Larry at Mtn. High Cyclery
Strengths:
The frame is stiff, tuff, and takes a beating
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC2 (not similar in any way other than 5" of travel)
Bike Setup:
vanilla 125rlc, romic or float rl, xt & lx, stylo 2.2 cranks, xt/4.1d wheels, thomson stem/post. 31.5 lbs with a 2.6/2.35 combo and float rl shock. 32.5 with romic
Bottom Line:
This bike is indistructable. I ride everything from cross country to dh trails. 4ft. drops and flat landings haven't phased it a bit. I have taken some serious falls that have left grooves in the tubing and it's like it never happened. I'm 5' 9" and ride a small for standover purposes and to throw it around more easily. I run a romic for dh days and a float rl for other rides. If you are considering an x5 look no further!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CheapWhine
a Cross Country Rider
from Saratoga, CA Date Reviewed: February 18, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Red Barn
Strengths:
Build quality and customer service. The frame is very strong and robust. It soaks up the bumps and still climbs well. I like the fact that the frame is a bit different...it doesn't look like everyone's bike and the design makes engineering sense to me.
Weaknesses:
After a year of riding, I haven't found any. They are hard to find in bike shops so it takes a bit of planning to find one to test ride (Ventana has a rental program or try posters in the Ventana forum).
Similar Products Used:
Turner 5-Spot and Santa Cruz Blur LT. The 5-Spot rode well but not as the X-5. The Santa Cruz was just a miss for me. Two friend and I did a multi-run comparison with a similar sized 5-Spot and Blur and the agreement of the bike buyers was that the 5-Spot was better the Blur and the X-5 was better than both. I previously rode a Fisher Sugar 2 and there is no comparison (I should have upgraded sooner).
Bike Setup:
Quad bearings with DHX-Air and a Rock Shox Pike 454 up front. Hadley hubs front and rear laced to DT rims with WTB MotoRaptor 2.24 tires. Chris King headset, Race Face Deus crank, and SRAM X.0 derailleur and chain. Thomson seat post and stem with Answer ProTaper bars. Magura Marta SL brakes.
Bottom Line:
I have been totally pleased with this purchase. It was a bit of money, but this is the one thing that I do just for me rather than the rest of the family so I felt justified.
It was hard to find an X-5 to ride, so I ended up calling the factory and talking to Sherwood. A buddy and I then went up to the factory to see the setup and ride a few bikes. Putting a leg over the top tube makes all the difference to me. I noticed 4 things very quickly: 1. The X-frame looks odd but is very functional. My torso is relatively longer than my leg length. The X-5 frame had the most stand-over by a large margin. Sudden stops or lifting over a small obstacle are much easier with this frame. I appreciate not having to worry about "inadequate clearance". 2. The frame is stiff and strong. I have no worries about riding over or through something. The suspension just sucks up the bumps. 3. It climbs well. Much better than I expected. 4. The fit and finish are top notch. The welds are great. We got to meet the welder. My buddy is used to be a welding engineer and asked lots of technical questions and got the right answers. Paint looks great and I like the polished rear triangle.
I have been riding with the same group for a while. My balance is much better, I am significantly faster descending (especially through rough stuff) and probably a bit faster climbing too. I now choose trails and lines that were not possible on my previous bike.
After a year, I am still convinced this was the right choice for me. I would not hesitate to get another Ventana if I needed another bike, but this one is great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derek Johnson
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: February 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Beaver Lake and St. Ed's for now
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
The Downhill Zone
Strengths:
BUILD QUALIITY!!!!!! CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!!!! Ease of transition from riding BMX bikes for almost 20 years. Climbing, actually not enough space or time to list them all
Weaknesses:
set the bar too high for any other bike I ride, research, touch or get within a twenty mile radius of.
Similar Products Used:
New to the single track world after years on a 20 and then no riding at all for a few years.
Bike Setup:
fox dhx 5.0, rockshox pike, sram x-7 and 6" travel upgrade
Bottom Line:
I started researching full- susp bikes back in july looking at any and everything, with build quality, versatility, and made in the good ol' USA being a priority. I wanted a bike of high quality and I needed a bike that could do everything well. I literally stumbled onto Ventana after going to the Dreambikes website. I called Ventana to explain what I was looking for and Teresa, in sales, told me she would have someone give me a call. Within two hours I received a call-back from the owner of Ventana (whose name escapes me at this moment...Sherwin???) and we talked bike for an hour. I was sold and went to see the guys at DHZ, ordered my X-5, with the travel upgrade, in orange.
My bike is simply put the nicest thing I have ever owned. The build is nicer than my Davidson road bike...welds are perfect stacks of dimes, machining is an art form.
The ride is absolutely rock solid without being boring. Handling is excellent the bike goes where you want it RIGHT NOW but isn't squirrelly. Climbs like a land cruiser and descents are better than a roller coaster.
$2000 bucks ain't cheap for a frame but perfection isn't either. If you are looking for a one quiver ride of exceptional quality and the best customer service in any type of business look no further. Ventana has a customer as long as I ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Juliius
a Cross Country Rider
from San Marcos, CA Date Reviewed: September 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Noble Canyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1950.00
Purchased At:
Quality Bikes
Strengths:
Pure Beauty, Do-Everything Bike + Awesome Customer Service (which isn't often needed)
If you want to treat yourself to a beautifully built bike that can do it all - don't look any further.
I've owned this bike for just over a year and love it. Great climber with a moderate XC build and able to pretty much bomb down anything I have the ambition to attempt.
If you want a bike that can be built super-light over super-burly - this is IT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gerry
a Cross Country Rider
from Mission Viejo, Ca Date Reviewed: July 13, 2006
Fox XTT fork, Hope M4 brakes, Sram XO rear X-gen front X9 shifters, XTR cranks, Mavic XL wheelset, Thomson stem and seatpost, Salsa Carbon bars, WTB Laser seat
Bottom Line:
I have owned a lot of bikes through the years but this is the first one I ever rode the first time and thought "wow". They did it right. The best feeling bike ever "GO Ventana".
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Chesapeake, VA Date Reviewed: July 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Mtbr classifieds
Strengths:
Versatile (5" or 6"), Light, Stiff, great stand over hieght, incredible attention to detail in the machining and welding.
Weaknesses:
NONE!
Similar Products Used:
5 Spot
Bike Setup:
'05 Marzochi AM1 fork, '04 Fox RP3 shock, Race Face Atlas crank/ BB set, Avid Juicy Seven brakes w/165 mm rotors, Sram X9 rear derailuer, Sram shifters, Shimano LX front derailure, Thomspon seat post, Thompson 90mm stem, Easton Monkkey Lite low rise bars, Cane Creek SoLos headset, Front wheel is a Bontrager Mustang tubless on Chris King, Back wheel is a DT Swiss 5.1 on Chris King, both build by Dave Thomas.
Bottom Line:
Every time i look at this bike...I think, "this is the best thing I have ever bought myself." Originially I was thinking of getting a 5 spot. Demoe'd one in Moab and wasn't overwhelmed. Looked around and was initially not interested in the X-5. Then I read the reviews and got over its strange look. I primarily ride it on cross country trails because of where I now live. Even having a well spec'd out Giant NRS in the stable, I ride the X-5 on even the purest of cross country trails...it is just that much more fun to ride...even if it does way a bit more than the NRS. It seems as effortless to pedal as the NRS...yet when a good drop or jump comes along...there is no compairson...the X-5 is just what the doctor ordered. I have never ridden a bike that I enjoyed more than my X-5.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Harrison
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: June 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Afan Wales
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Riverside
Strengths:
Quality, strength/weight ratio, after sales service, travel/shock options, paint finish
Thought I'd add an update to my earlier review now I've been riding this bike for over 18 months. I've probably clocked up around 1000 miles on the frame and it looks and feels brand new. The suspension bearings are still silky smooth and silent after 2 muddy UK winters and the paint finish still sparkles in the sun. I replaced the upper shock bush after 12 months when it developed a bit of play, but that's the only frame related maintenance required so far. Still not a single squeak or creak from this bike on the trail. It feels as solid as the day I first rode it. Who says FS bikes are hard work to maintain?
I still love the way the bike rides, especially downhill and it's made me a more adventurous rider as a result. My speed on downhill sections has improved dramatically and I'm still only scratching the surface of this bike's performance envelope. Some of the guys I ride with push the X5 right to its limit, so it gives me something to aim for. I can usually keep them in sight now, so it must be working!! It still climbs very well too on technical terrain and it's only the fireroads where you notice the extra weight over a lighter bike. A small price to pay for the overall performance.
I've tweaked the build a little over the last year, perhaps due to the changes in my riding style. The big ring was ditched in favour of a bashguard and I got a Romic coil shock for the more aggressive rides. I still use the Swinger 3-way air for longer rides, but I love the plush Romic feel. But the biggest improvement has come from fitting a Gravity Dropper seatpost. A MUST for this bike, it allows you to get right down into the bike for maximum attack on the downhills.
So I'll be keeping this frame for at least another year and can't imagine replacing it with anything other than a new X5. Awesome stuff!
Thanks again to Alan at Riverside for all the advice and great rides and thanks to Sherwood for making such a great bike :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cruz
a Cross Country Rider
from Brisbane Australia Date Reviewed: May 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
MTB Precision
Strengths:
Design, welds, quality all over
Weaknesses:
Nil
Similar Products Used:
FSR, Haro, Gemini
Bike Setup:
Talas RCL, DT Swiss wheels, X9, Middleburn, Kenda, Formula discs, Thomson and Easton Nano. Mallets.
Bottom Line:
Just so well balanced, no flex and adaptable from 4 inch up to 6 inch. Great ride.
The paint finish, welds, gussets, the strength of the rear swingarm (heavy duty with Quad bearings) yet still build up to just under 13 kgs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stripes
a Cross Country Rider
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: April 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
anything with dirt, rocks, and roots
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
20.8" TT available, XC weight for all mountain, Sherwood and company are so willing to help you get the right bike, can upgrade the travel to 6" front and rear (currently running 5"). Supporting a local California company with a great product.
Weaknesses:
Ventana doesn't know that word.
Similar Products Used:
2000 Euduro Pro (like riding a sofa uphill), Raleigh Ram XT (great on downhills, too heavy for anything going up). Prior to that, only XC FS bikes: GF Sugar, Trek Y-22, HH100X (Titus Racer-X 100 basically).
I was looking for an all-mountain bike after realizing that my HH100X was still too long for me (I have a short torso).
When I found the X-5, I was not nly impressed that I could find a bike that was small enough to fit me (TT- 20.8 inches), but one that had 5" of travel.
It feels like the X-5 can handle anything I put it through (after I get my confidence back up from a painful crash). The bike puts you in more of a downhiller's position than XC, so it handles the downhills and can go down any line you pick (good or bad).
The part that really amazes me is how well the bike climbs. I expected the downhills to not be a problem, but the X-5 clears a significant uphill easily too.
With the slacker head angle than the HH100X, I have a couple of things to get used to: the way the X-5 turns (not as sharp as an XC racer), and the sudden wheel drift you seem to get from going so fast :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shaun
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst, NH USA Date Reviewed: February 24, 2006
I have bought a new bike every two years as long as I can remember. This will be my third year on this bike with more in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russ Lambert
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellingham, Washington Date Reviewed: February 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Gooseberry Mesa
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Clark's Cycle
Strengths:
Workmanship,lateral rigidity, aesthetics, customer service
Weaknesses:
Absolutely none If you can afford it, buy it
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz superlite, chameleon, Specialized stumpjumper, Ventana El Chamuco
Bike Setup:
Fox 36 Talus RC2, Fox DHX air, King Hubs, Magura marta sl brakes, Sram XO drivetrain and shifters, Race Face Deus crankset, FSA carbon seatpost, bars and stem. Kenda Nevegal tires
Bottom Line:
The best bike on the planet bar none. Certainly Ventana's finest hour. From cross country to freeride, the X-5 does it all. A two-wheeled Ferrari?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
neil burke
a Cross Country Rider
from jermyn pa Date Reviewed: February 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
prompton
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
around town bikes
Strengths:
as if you didn't know the last review was bogus, here's the real deal... laterally stiff rear susp,plush 5" travel with an option for 6" rocker. geometry and handleing is excellent. built solid but not too heavy. frame and fork for XL is 7.5 lbs.
Weaknesses:
cable routing bosses on top of top tube seem to be right where your knee can scrape them. can't think of any other weaknesses.
Similar Products Used:
GF mt.Tam, GF Sugar,
Bike Setup:
minute 4 fork, mavic crossmax enduro wheels, thomson elete post and stem, xt 180mm cranks, sram x0 rear derailler, xt front derailler, fsa carbon bar, avid bb7 mech brakes, rp3 rear shock, kenda nevegal 2.1 tires,
Bottom Line:
ventana really did their homework on this one. when i decided to get an x5 i was a little concerned how a bike built on the west coast would handle the tight twisty east coast trails. i wasn't disapointed. this bike is even quicker turning and takes the switchbacks better than my previous bikes. even with the 69 degree head angle and slightly longer wheelbase. through the rock gardens its possible to stop dead, trackstand and one pedal stroke gets you started again. something my others bikes could not do. on the downhills its even better. very confident feeling, just point it and don't worry so much about your line. the bike will soak up and correct your mistakes. this goes for the rock gardens also. as for climbing, the minute 4 fork helps when you can drop the travel on the fly. as long as you keep enough weight on the front to prevent twitchy steering the rear wheel will hook up nicely over rocks and roots. very satisfied with this choice as an all mountain bike that weighs in at 30 lbs in the XL size.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil Burke
a Downhiller
from Montdale, PA Date Reviewed: February 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Hubbard Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Around Town Bikes
Strengths:
Bench Press, Squats
Weaknesses:
Lat pulldowns
Similar Products Used:
Several
Bike Setup:
My parents idea. We met at Idlewild Bowling Alley and we really hit it off. Little X-fivey, as I like to call her, is a hell of a bowler. You should see her hang a 7 - 10 spare. Don't tell me extra travel doesn't make all the difference.
Bottom Line:
This bike is really cool. It makes me feel good about myself again. I now have frieds, and I think they really like me for me. Often times, the head of the welcoming committee will even talk to me now (though he's not around much anymore.) Gotta go. Little X-fivey wants me to cuddle with her. Says I just ride her than ignore her until I need her again. She's so cute when she's angry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GREG WILSON
a Weekend Warrior
from FRESNO Date Reviewed: July 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
PERSONAL SELLER
Strengths:
EVERYTHING, FOR WHAT THIS BIKE WAS BUILT FOR, THERE IS NO FINER. COMPLETE ADAPTABILITY DUE TO SHERWOODS AWSOME DESIGNS. WELL THOUGHT OUT FROM A RIDERS POINT OF VIEW.
Weaknesses:
???????, IF YOU ARE ON A TIGHT BUDGET, YOU WON'T BE RIDING ONE THESE BABIES. WHICH IS WAY UNFORTUNATE. JUST SELL YOUR CAR,HOUSE,WIFE,HUSBAND,WHATEVER AND TRY ONE!
Similar Products Used:
PSYCLEWERKS WILD HARE,INTENSE M1,SANTA CRUZ TAZMON,GIANT VT,AND MANY MORE.
Bike Setup:
MANITOU MINUTE 2:00,HADLEY WHEELSET,JUICY BRAKES,THOMPSON POST AND STEM,HOLZFELLER TRIPLE CRANKS,BONTRAGER O.S. CARBON BAR,GRIPSHIFT XO,WTB SADDLE,CHRIS KING H.S.,TIME PEDALS.
Bottom Line:
OOPS, HERES ANOTHER 5 OUT OF 5. I DO NOT KNOW IF THIS IS GOING TO BE THE BEST BIKE EVER MADE, BUT IT WILL BE VERY HARD TO BEAT. IT CLIMBS GREAT, IT IS LATERALLY STIFF, IT DESCENDS PERFECT, IT CAN TAKE GOOD SIZE DROPS, PRACTICALLY BULLETPROOF AND EVEN IF NOT, VENTANA CAN FIX IT USUALLY. I AM 39 AND HAVE BEEN RIDING MT. BIKES SINCE I WAS 18. I HAVE BEEN A CROSS COUTRY RACER AND RODE WITH A FEW EXPERT AND PRO RIDERS. THEY HAVE TAUGHT ME ALOT, WHEN IT COMES TO KNOWING GOOD FROM BAD RIDING EXPERIENCES. I LITERALLY HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR A BIKE THAT CAN BE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS WITHOUT A MAJOR SACRAFICE AT EITHER END. THIS IS THE CLOSEST I HAVE COME SO FAR. I AM SURE THAT THERE MIGHT OTHERS, BUT BEYOND THE BIKE, THERE IS THE BUILDER. BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY THAT THERE ARE SOME NOT VERY NICE OR SUPPORTIVE ONES OUT THERE. YOU PROBABLY HAVE RAN INTO THEM AS WELL. SHERWOOD AT VENTANA COMPLETELY HAS SUPPORTED EVERY ASPECT OF CUSTOMER SERVICE THAT I CAN THINK OF. I DID NOT EVEN BUY THE FRAME DIRECTLY FROM HIM. AND HE HAS ANSWERED EVERY TECHNICAL QUESTION THAT I HAVE HAD. GIVEN ME STELLAR ADVICE ON COMPONENTS TO USE OR NOT. AND PUT UP WITH MY OVER ZEALOUS ATTITUDE ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. ALL I AM TRYING TO SAY IS, IF YOU HAVE A CHOICE, WHEN YOU WANT TO BUY A GREAT BIKE, BE SURE "WHO" IS STANDING BEHIND IT. THIS BIKE LOOKS COOL, IS COOL, AND EXUDES COOL EVERYWHERE IT GOES. I LOVE TO RIDE IT. I DO NOT FEEL 39 WHEN I DO. THAT IS WHAT MT. BIKING IS ALL ABOUT; BEING ABLE TO GO WHERE MERE MORTALS CAN ONLY DREAM. FIND ONE, BUY ONE, AND RIDE ONE!! IMMEDIATELY!! SEE YA ON THE TRAILS!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
The Bike Doctor
a
from Ventura Co. Date Reviewed: July 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
single tracks with dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Sundance Cycles
Strengths:
Over the top quality, very rigid frame, great geometry, outstanding handling....up & down!
Weaknesses:
I don't believe that word is in Ventana's vocabulary!
Similar Products Used:
Intense Uzzi SL, Intense Uzzi SLX, Outland VPP
Bike Setup:
Perfect for me...well, I am running the Fox 05 RP3 rear shock and the 05 Talas front fork.
Bottom Line:
For the last 5 years I've been riding an Uzzi SLX...which is a great bike. I used the SLX as my regular X-country bike and it was set up on the beefy side (37 lbs), but other than just being heavy it was great and maybe a bit of slow steerer. Ok, lets turn to the X5.....The only thing I didn't like was the reduction in my bank accout, but I'm certainly over that aspect. Now the bike is what I'd call....THE BEST BIKE I'VE EVER OWNED OR RIDEN. I'm a 180 lbs 53 year young guy whos been seriously riding mtn bikes since 1988 (road bikes prior to 1988)and this machine does exactly what you want it to do....PERFORM! Some of my riding partners have mentioned that I'm going much faster on just about every type terrain. The X5 build-up came in at 28 lbs (9 lbs less than the SLX...1 1/2 lbs of it in rotating mass), but beyond the weight difference the bike just does everything many times better. Very confidence inspiring to say the least!!! In my opinion, the best quality built full suspension freeride/cross country mtn bikes out now are Ventana & Ellsworth. I chosse the X5 Ventana because I believe it is the stiffest frame out in its catagory, the geometry is spot on, the rear suspension works much better than any thing I've riden, and the quality is tops!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Silverstone, Northants, Uk Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Riverside UK
Strengths:
Build quality, frame stiffness, lightweight, choice of shock & travel options, paint finish and colours, exclusivity.
Weaknesses:
Can't think of any
Similar Products Used:
Considered Yeti 575, Turner 5-spot, Rocky Mountain Slayer, Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
19" frame with 6" rockers, Manitou Swinger 3-way air, RS Pike Race, Mavic Crossmax XL wheelset, Thomson post & stem, Sram X9 triggers & rear mech, XT front mech, XT chainset, Hope mono-mini brakes, Easton EA70 riser bars, ODI lockons.
Bottom Line:
Fantastic! Coming from a short travel XC bike (Cannondale Scalpel), this bike has really transformed my riding. I can ride technical sections with much more confidence and the downhills are so much more fun. I thought I might notice the extra weight on climbs, but I actually find them easier. I can sit down more over rough ground and the traction is much better. The only time I feel slower is on fire-road climbs, but who cares about those? This is an amazing all-day trailbike. It just feels rock solid everywhere. No creaks or squeeks whatsoever.
A big thanks to Alan at Riverside Cycle Centre in the UK
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Downhiller
from england Date Reviewed: December 20, 2004
GT hardtail, giant VT considered spesh enduro, trek liquid, marin wolf ridge
Bike Setup:
what i have and what i want to upgrade to: old Z3 fork - pike hayes discs wtb, XT, GT wheels - king, xm321 ava shock - romic syncros bar tioga stem - thomson 90mm odi grips planet x post panaracer tyres - schwalbe 2.35's flat pedals - mallet c's
Bottom Line:
the first real FS bike ive used, and will also be the last (apart from 8' freeride bike, ventana as well ;o)) great for what i want to do, and does it with ease and willingness to do more than what i can dish out
buy it if you want a stiff, trail dog dont buy it if you will just use it for going to the shops, it is the best FS for FR/XC out there
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cathy
a Cross Country Rider
from Philly Date Reviewed: May 13, 2004
Favorite Trail:
anything in Asheville, NC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Mainly Bikes in Narberth, PA
Strengths:
weight for a long travel, standover, quality, versatility 4-5-6" travel options
XT, Avid mechs, Minute 1, Progressive Air shock, king wheels w/stout rims & specialized 2.2 tires
Bottom Line:
This bike rules! I'm 5'3", which makes it impossible to get a long travel bike that fits.
A long travel bike would have seemed crazy since I prefer climbing and cross country riding. Then I thought about the confidence of long travel in helping me ride more technical stuff. Enter the X5: perfect fit, great geometry for cross country, lots of travel options, handmade not production frame.
With almost 100 miles and a vacation in Asheville on the X5 I can say this bike rules! It climbs are great and going down is even better. The suspension doesn't squish and although it is heavier than I'm used to riding, it is getting me in great shape.
Also, thumbs up to Nasser & Greg at Mainly Bikes for building me another great bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
FoShizzle
a Cross Country Rider
from Socal Date Reviewed: May 7, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Ups Sisar Down Gridley in Ojai
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Hammerheadbikes
Strengths:
Lateral stiffness. Implementation of chosen design. Active suspension, especially on steep technical climbs. Ability to run 6" rockers. Perfect angle (70 deg) for all-around riding.
Weaknesses:
Price; but not compared to others in class. Low bb at times (but usually only an issue if I reduce travel too much on Talas fork).
Large X-5 w/ Romic, Fox Talas fork, Mavic 317 rims with XTR disc hubs, XTR disc calipers w/ XT hyd levers, XT cranks, XT/XTR fr/rr der, Shimano 545 pedals, Geax Sedona 2.25 tires, Answer Pro Taper Carbon bars, Thomson stem and post, WTB Laser V Stealth saddle
Bottom Line:
I retired the Tracer frame for the X-5. I truly love the bike now and should have got it in the first place. 5" Travel front and rear was my criteria after realizing the Tracer did not quite have the feel I wanted for my general-use bike (also have a Bullit). I considered every bike (cost no object) in deciding on the X-5. I researched a lot and got great advice from experts like Charles at hammerheadbikes and Larry from mtnhighcyclery. This bike climbs (all but fire road) as well or better than the Tracer. The extra travel and incredible tracking rear sticks to technical terrain when climbing better than the Tracer. The top tube is almost identical to my Tracer but I feel much more comfortable; perhaps the steeper seat tube? The front wheel wanders less than the Tracer as well. This is perhaps due to the fact I always ran the Tracer in slack (69 deg) setting. This is defnitely the bike for me and I highly recommend it. The company is great and the look of the bike makes you feel like a bike could not be built any better. It came down to this and the 5 Spot. What primarily won me on the X-5 is that I decided to choose as the main parameter stiffness, versus having a Horst link with its potential pedalling advantages. As there are many parameters that contribute to the overall ride of a bike I decided that for me, the X-5 won out over the 5 Spot across all parameters I considered relevant and I know I made the right decision.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gonzostrike
a Downhiller
from Missoula, MT Date Reviewed: May 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Mtn High Cyclery
Strengths:
lateral stiffness of swingarm; excellent rear travel; balanced handling; ability to choose options for your particular riding; outstanding machining and welds
Weaknesses:
the price... but I wouldn't say it's overpriced.
Similar Products Used:
SC Heckler, Specialized various, Ells Isis
Bike Setup:
frame, fork, wheels, drivetrain, etc.
Bottom Line:
perhaps the most stable, predictable, nimble and fun bike I've owned. lateral swingarm stiffness surpasses my '02.5 SC Bullit by a good margin. can build light enough to ride for all-day techie XC, or can add burlier parts to make it more FRish. mine's in between. I ride Northern Rockies XC/FR/DH, with all types of trails and conditions.
I'd say this frame is worth every penny. I'm using the Romic Twin Tube and a Marzocchi Z1 FR QR20, and after dialing the damping of the fork and shock to mimic each other's responses, the bike is amazingly easy to ride through all types of rocky techie conditions. climbs extremely well whether in saddle or standing. suspension travel quality is superb, and the bike is extremely responsive to your inputs. very very well done.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a
from Agoura Hills, CA Date Reviewed: April 30, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Suicide, San Ysidro, Backbone, King James, Hummingbird,
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Sundance Cycles
Strengths:
Stiff frame and rear end, quad bearings are really smooth, 6" travel option, Romic, XL frame, bottom bracket clearance, Ventana service. Active suspension. Cool colors. Geometry - for trail riding.
Weaknesses:
Got to put down some $$.
Similar Products Used:
Enduro/FSR (several)
Bike Setup:
Ventana X-5, quad bearings, 6" rocker with Romic 8" to give 6" rear travel, superdust (dark grey metalic). XT shifters, hubs, front der, disc levers, XTR rear der, disc calipers. Raceface loweriser bars, XY seatpost, cranks (180's), headset; Thomsen stem. TALAS RLC fork. Mavic F519 rims, Mutano 2.4 race front, 2.14 rear. 545 pedals - great all around pedal for technical riding.
Bottom Line:
I conidered the 5-spot and the X-5 (and the Intense EVP 5.5, Id is too small for me). I'm almost 6' - 5" and just short of 200#, so I need an XL and cannot go too light (I've broken 3 frames, and trash light wheelsets, even though I mostly do XC technical riding). I had a 2000 Enduro before this, and 1998 FSR full suspension setup before that. On the X-large, the top tube is extended to form a true "X" - which seems like a good idea on an XL (and given my prior experiences).
I went with the X-5 over the 5-spot for three reasons (tough decision): (1) 6" rocker option - I ride a lot of techincal trails, and being a pretty big guy, wanted the extra travel, (2) the 6" rocker option raises the bottom bracket about 1/2 to 5/8", which is fabulous! I was very tired of whacking my pedals on rocks/obstacles - standard bb heights are too low in my view, especially for techincal riding (even if you use larger tires), (3) quad bearins and stiffness. as well, I wanted a four-bar link, active suspension. I know that technically, it's not a Horst link. Although I'm no expert on bike mechanics, I am a structural engineer, and after looking at the slight variation in the suspension on the X-5 link, versus 5-spot and other "Specialized" links, I was convinced that the differnce is insigificant - see the Titus web-site, which is pretty good at explaining the differences (and I wrote this review partly to dispell what Curt from Midway City wrote on the 5-spot review: "but I wouldn't trade to own a Ventana due to the semi active nature of the design"). As well, the stiffness and smoothness of the rear end with the quad bearings more than offsets any minor compromise in the pivot location.
Four plus months of riding now - about 3 times a week. I am very pleased with the frame and overall setup. The bike handles great - so much better then my Enduro that I am very surprised. Going up, the rear suspension tracks really great (certainly as good as the FSR links I've been riding for the prior 5+ years, and a lot better with the Romic) - I noted a significant difference on several short and long techincal climbs (sure the Romic has something to do with that). It tracks great and is still smooth with only minor bob.
It's incredible going down. Suspension just soaks up the bumps - I am flying over sections that I used to slow down on - with confidence. Quad bearings are incredibly smooth! Extra bb height is great (~14.25 inches in 5" fork travel position with the 2.4 front tire)- I rarely, if ever, hit my pedals now - adds a lot of confidence going through technical sections. The TALAS RLC is a great match. I can crank it down to 3" and lower the front end on long climbs, and then twist it back to 5" and rip the downhill. Once in a while I lockout the front. With the Romic set to minimize bob, and with the TALAS at 3" or locked out, the X-5 is a very respectable climber.
Given all my manipulations from a "standard" setup, not sure about the head angle. With 5" rocker, supposed to be 70, and 71 with 6" rocker. Maybe closer to 70 with my current tires. Whatever it is, it feels very comfortable climbing and weaving through fast single-track trails, or ripping rocky/technical downhill sections.
My build is about 31#, due to frame size (XL),the heavier rims/hubs, tires, pedals, seatpost and bars (non-CF), and shifter/lever/crank setup (versus newer XTR/XT integrated setup). But, as I said, I'm a pretty big guy and the difference between 28 or 31# just isn't a factor for me.
Ventana X-5 is a great choice, hard to see how you can go wrong. I'm loving it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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