Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2008
Strengths: Unbelievably reliable
Weaknesses: Front forks just suck.
Bottom Line:
Over the years I've swapped bikes with several people for a downhill run, climb, jump, etc. while in the woods because someone got a new bike and wants to convince me to do the same. In the end, almost every time I'm the one hearing, "Damn that's a sweet bike" It's just smooth, everywhere you take it. Rear-shock lockout is awesome for the climb, though my lockout no longer works (probably just a bad cable). I personally recommend screwing in the rear shock collar more than you think you need to. This will help keep the front wheel high when launching off a ledge. A newer-tech fork with more travel and less weight will also help this bike feel more limber in-flight and at launch. While my riding buddies are back-saddle hangin on for life, i'm in the saddle pedaling past them. On climbs I get my arse whooped, but that's not because of the bike. In fact I usually think to myself while my legs are on fire that I'm surprised I made it to the top at all. It feels very linear when climbing; I'm getting out everything I put in.
I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a dual suspension bike. Obviously if anyone is reading this, they see the F3 on ebay or something since it's an obsolete bike. It's worth it: buy it! I've ridden several $2k and up bikes that are new, and I like my bike even more after riding theirs. Swap the Jett fork with something new, and get clipless pedals. If you can find one (I haven't) get the F2 rear triangle, which is aluminum. The F3 rear triangle is steel.
I would NOT recommend this bike to anyone who is into gram-shaving. While I do think the bike is heavy and could benefit greatly from the basic swap-outs mentioned above, I guarantee instant fun if you go straight to the trail with the bike completely stock. I rode the bike bone-stock for 2 years, and replaced the front fork after it busted and I happened on a sweet deal on a Manitou R-Seven 100mm, and I have now realized the dream of having the ultimate bike. If you're a beginner don't forget to get clipless pedals set up, if you can afford it, right off the bat. Just get it done; you will eventually, I promise.
Strengths: i used to ride a much heavier cheaper and much much more crappy full sus (£150 and a worthless piece of.....)made of steel weighing in at aroud 2-3 times the weight of this... Gary Fisher is a man with his head screwed on when it comes to designing mtb's i have found no more comfortable bike in my long history of bikes... this is the most beautifull best handleing best shifting bike i have ever ridden... it the rare handlebar mounted RockShox lockout is a great addition to the fine sus setup it may not be the lightest f/s bike in the world but it behaves like it is... and that colour... everyone should have this bike it is marvelous
Weaknesses: notthin' i can't fix.... and nearly every other bike feels cramped after riding this for a while, the problem is the other bikes...
Bottom Line:
Most beautifull riding, handling, looking bike I've ridden...
Bike Setup: XT rear der. LX front der. Bontrager wheels, Manitou SX e frint damper, Rock shox deluxe rear damp.
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Submitted by
Juan Latorre
a Cross Country Rider
from Santiago, CHILE
Date Reviewed: February 8, 2001
Strengths: Joshua's F3: There is no better frame geometry for an all arround bike in the entire world. The rest can be upgraded. Is firm, descends well and with a rear suspension lock can be a versatile climber. It´s also strong.
Weaknesses: Urgent need for upgrading the whole set of components.
Bottom Line:
After years, and no limited budget, searching for a dream bike for someone who needs to climb as well as descend and do some cross country, the Gary Fisher Joshua F3 definitely has the best frame ever. No Intense, Kestrel or Cannodale Raven would match the capabilities of this frame. Chile's 4000 mile long mountain range will always require a bicicle able to go up as well as descend. But it urges the change and upgrade of parts. Take this frame and follow the rest of the parts described, and you'll have the best money can buy.
Bike Setup: Manitou Supernova 20mm axle front suspension, Fox Float RC rear, full XTR, Race Face Next crank with rings, Mavic 317 front wheel with Magura HUB, Rolf Dolomite rear wheel Rolf Hub, Hayes discs front and rear, 2,1 Ritchey tires, Kore Elite stem, Easton Carbon Riser bar, LP Carbon barends, Thompson seatpost, Selle Italia saddle, Chris King headset, and some other expensive gear.
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Submitted by
Craig Duffy
a Cross Country Rider
from Union, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2000
Strengths: Frame Geometry, This bike is very comfortable and stable. Rear Shock lockout, brakes.
Weaknesses: Crankset ('99 Deore LX 9 sp.)
Bottom Line:
I love the bike. It's very fast and comfortable for my body type, and the Genesis frame geometry makes it so stable on climbs and descents. Just to let you know, I'm 6' and 185 lbs.
However I had serious problems with the crankset (Deore LX 9 sp.) that came with the bike. After only 125 miles I broke the chain 4 or 5 times and broke several teeth off of the middle ring before I decided to upgrade to a real set of cranks (Raceface Turbines). The raceface's make a world of difference. They're also 9 speed so I know that the problem wasn't related to having too many gears like so many people think. These shift perfectly, even after taking a beating. They are also so stiff that you can really feel a difference on climbs. They also cut off almost 3/4 of a pound which helps this somewhat heavy bike.
I changed the grips to the ODI lockjaw grips after experiencing throttle grip with the stock grips and a pair of Answer's that I tried. The ODI's are unbelievably awesome and I'd recommend them to anyone.
I also went to change the saddle to a Sella Italia with a little gel spot for your special spot, but it actually felt worse than the stock WTB.
Wheels are really nice and light. I taco'd the front wheel on a botched jump, but that was my fault.
I also switched the Bontrager pedals to a more advanced system that was easier to click into, the Seedplay Frogs. They are far superior to any SPD style pedal. Give them a week and you'll be a believer, trust me....
The one part that I'm kind of unsure of is the rear shock (stock Rock Shock). The dampening seems off to me. I usually end up riding with the "On the Fly" Lockout engaged a little bit but not locked out. It definitely helps the bounciness of the shock with the dampening completely open. However I love the ability to completely lock out the rear shock. On any long uphill fireroads or the very rare road that I have to ride on, this feature is awesome. The bike still doesn't bob much at all even when the shock is not locked out, but it's still nice when you want to completely lock it out. I want to try replacing the shock (I see that others have the same complaint), but I don't want to give up the rear lockout feature. When I ride with it just a little locked out it's perfect.
Overall I love the bike. Once I fixed the cranks, I haven't had a single problem and especially no chain suck that someone else said. The bike's awesome. I've taken some serious falls on rock with it and it always comes up similing and in one piece (I wish I could say the same for me)!!!
Bike Setup: Raceface Turbine LP crankset, Profile Barends, ODI Team Yeti lockon grips, Sella Italia saddle, Speedplay Frog pedals, XT rear derailur (don't know if this was standard)
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Submitted by
carl
a Weekend Warrior
from havelock nc usa
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2000
Strengths: awesome geometry. very solid feeling bike. I love the on the fly lockout. I cant see how people live without it
Weaknesses: seat is slightly uncomfortable and the front shock is way too plush. I have never had a fork bottom out as easily as this. however that is an easy upgrade
Bottom Line:
awsome bike thanks again fisher and Bicycle outfitters in brockport NY. bike just needs a little refinement to make perfect in my book. i would have given it more chilis if I could!!
Similar Products Used: have been riding fishers since 94' have had a montare, a paragon, a mt. Tam and a super caliber.
Bike Setup: still pretty stock for now. new front shock in the near future. and probably a riser bar. I bought a THE fender with this bike and wouldnt recomend it to my worst enemy it made too much noise and bottomed out into the tire making a horrible noise every time you hit a bump. but it looked good on the bike and now looks good in my parts box
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Submitted by
Phil
a Cross Country Rider
from Harleysville, PA
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2000
Strengths: Can really take a beating. Few mecanical problems. Fun to ride. Geometry is great!
Weaknesses: Rear Shock too heavy not very adjustable. I experianced a lot of flex and bobbing with the Rock Shock Coil Spring that came standard.
The choice of the rear shock I assume was just a pricing decission, F2 & F1 came with higher end air shocks.
Bottom Line:
The frame and most of the components are great, but upgrading the rear shock is a must. Probably won't find many new F3s in shops now, but if you can get one used or new at a good price, buy it and upgrade the rear shock.
Similar Products Used: Gary Fisher Procaliber 1999
Bike Setup: Replaced the rear shock recently with the Canecreek AD-10 What an upgrade! Improved heavier feel of the bike significantly, plus reduced bobbing on climbs. Now it rides more like a hard tail, except when you need it to absorb a hit.
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Submitted by
Luke Ibis
a Weekend Warrior
from Sioux Falls, SD, USA
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2000
Strengths: Plush ride, great components, "on-the-fly" rear lockout feature, perfect Genesis Geometry - You made me a believer Gary!!!! Almost everything about this bike is just perfect for me
Well, what can I say? This is a really wonderful bike. I'm not a racer at all, I mainly ride rail trails or in the city and occasionally try to tackle some technical terrain and the Joshua F3 handles it all really great. The Genesis Geometry is not just a gimmick...it is really something and I think it's a revolution. I've never ridden a bike that fits and handles so well. I was a little hesistant about buying a full suspension bike, partially because I'm a big guy (6'1", 240 or so) but a test ride calmed my fears. It climbs perfectly with very little bobbing, and the rear shock can be locked out on the for an feel that is very much like a good hardtail. I considered the Sugar 3, but ended up going with the '99 Joshua F3 for a couple reasons. First, the Sugar has a super-plush Cane Creek air shock which is nice, but makes quick adjustments a pain in the ass (in my opinion). With the Joshua you can stop and turn the coil to a firmer or softer setting or just lock it out totally. With the Sugar you'll have to carry an air pump, and that is something I did'nt want to do. Second, I got a really great deal on the bike because it was a '99 model and on closeout.
The stock Wilderness Trail SSTK saddle sucks. I really, really hate it. It's almost instantly uncomfortable, and I recommend replacing with a better one right away.
By the way, I heard Fisher downgraded the Joshuas for 2000, so you might want to check that out. I suppose they are trying to sell Sugars now, just business. If you can find a '99 model Joshua F3 buy it...I'm sure the new ones left are closeout models now. Racers will probably be dissapointed because it's a little on the heavy side, but that ain't me. If you're a casual rider who wants a great high performance FS bike, you won't be dissapointed.
Favorite Trail: Mickelson/Centennial Trail Systems
Duration Product Used: Less than 1 month
Similar Products Used: I tried out a Specialized FSR and a GT XCR-6000 with I-drive. I also considered the new Sugar 3, but ended up going with the Joshua because of the coil/hydraulic rear shock.
Bike Setup: Stock, although I'm replacing the saddle with a Specialized Body Geometry model ASAP
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Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta Ga, USA
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2000
Strengths: The Joshua F3 rides great. I love the Manitou fork it came i with it went well with the color of the bike. the bike is very stiff, no bobbing especially with the on the fly lock-out it came with. The wheelset it came with is amazing-the Bontrager Race. i have loved this bike.
Weaknesses: The only weakness i've seen is the cranks it came with-the STX-RC, but thats a Shimano problem not Gary Fisher. THis bike is an all around awesome bike.
Bottom Line:
This bike is great for any cross country, freerider who isnt a weight freak, even though the weight isnt half bad on the bike. Its dependable and can withstand harsh conditions very well. A great bike for anyone with a pulse. I bought my bike at a close-out sale, not knowing much about the bike. I got it for 500 bucks which is an absolute steal. The bike is good for short XC rides or long hauls through rocky trails, i.e. Tsali, or Soap Creek. Great bike.
Bike Setup: Gary Fisher Joshua F3, Easton CT2 handlbar, soon to have a Manitou X-Vert Super fron fork, ROck SHox delux rear (has served me well), Bontrager Race wheelset.
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Submitted by
Joe Williams
a Cross Country Rider
from Chittenango, NY, 13037
Date Reviewed: March 5, 2000
Strengths: Stiff and Solid Frame, Lock out rear shock, she's a kickin biatch on the hills. Funky color.
Weaknesses: Alittle hefty but I like a big w/ a little meat on her. Stupid bottle cage, but can be easily fixed w/ a hydration system.
Bottom Line:
Gary Fisher has shown again that he knows his bikes. Sure, some of the componentry isn't that hot but you have got to rememeber the stock price is only $1,350. Most people who have reviewed Joshua beat the piss out of her. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a good dual suspension bike. Don't buy the 2000 Joshua b/c they crapped it out.
Weaknesses: Some lead lined spec components Rear shock bleeds(Rock Shox problem!!!) Bottle mount is in the most useless spot!!! Cable routing hits the frame and rubs into the tubing Damn honky stickers wont come off(but I love her anyways)
Bottom Line:
Sweet riding bike with freakish color(i like it)!!! Stock tires were too tame for the coast, needed some meat on her. I though the lock out wasn't necessary so I took it off. Magazines complain that it bobs on long uphill "paved" climbs. GET OFF THE PAVEMENT!!! CARS GO THERE!!! If you don't mash you'll be ok. If you need to ride on the road.. maybe. If you can't ride uphill without mashing... maybe. Just another piece of handlebar clutter to make my knees bleed. I swapped the bars for a riser, didn't need carbon fiber, just wanted carbon fiber. Riser bars are nice for out here, not just a fad!!! Stupid bottle mount!!! Have to ride more carefully at night with a battery down there, don't want to tear out the mount screws. Not exactly the most hygenic place to put something that will go in your mouth anyways(water bottle not the battery). As heavy as it is it climbs as good as any. Wicked geometry for climbing!!! Slimmy rocks, loose boulders, slick roots, logs...sweet!!! Wicked geometry!!! If you can't keep up in a climb your not strong enough anyways so quit whining and keep riding!!! If it's too heavy you'll just get stronger or go home. Besides, components don't last for ever, by lighter replacements. To note on other reviews: I have never had anymore chain suck on this bike as any other. (CLEAN YOUR CHAIN!!!) Bike wont shift properly??? Take it to somebody who can actually set it up properly. If you fumble off six foot drops or land like a lead mango, yes this fork will bottom out. (WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT AT 80MM TRAVEL!!!???) Leaking rear shock??? WARRANTY!!!
Bike Setup: Specialized team master/control (20-25psi) Easton carbon riser bar and seat post No rear lock-out No bar ends Re-routed cables(so they don't touch the frame) Never use the bottle mount half inch or so sag
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Submitted by
Dave Corkill
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: January 22, 2000
Strengths: Good hill climber. Strong frame.
Weaknesses: Supplied me with a useless front-end shock (Kept bottoming out), useless rear shock, and no riser bar. Serious chain suction every time the chain got a little dirty.
Bottom Line:
I am a first time mountain biker and I find the Gary Fisher Joushua series a descent bike, but I wished I had shopped around a little more. Gary Fisher should seriously consider in reviewing these product reviews. First of all, this bike has serious chain suction. If you do not look after this bike and especiallly the chain, you are going to have problems mister! Second, why in the hell is Gary Fisher installing silly little shocks for this bike? The first thing I had to do is replace them with something better. Was this done on purpose so we Joshua owners have to spend money for better upgrading stuff? Please explain! I could have owned a full decked out Santa Cruz by now!
Bike Setup: Replaced the front Manitou SX-E for a dual crown ROCKSHOCK Judy XL. I kept bottoming put the Manitou. Replaced the rear shock for a Stratos Helix Expert.
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Submitted by
Stuart Hawkes
a Please Select
from Worthing,West Sussex, England
Date Reviewed: January 21, 2000
Strengths: Excellent off road, never cleaned, only sprayed with WD40 and still never complains. Mates think it looks the bizzo and so do I. Lockable rear shock great.
Weaknesses: Bottle cage position crap, Large tyres not ideal for the road stretches. Would prefer riser bars and disc brakes. Cost £1100 in March 99 so one of your reviewers got a bargain at $375. Down to about £675 in the sales now so what's mine worth second hand$375?).
Similar Products Used: Raleigh activator two(horible)
Bike Setup: Standard.
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Submitted by
Bobby Glenn
a Weekend Warrior
from Hampton, VA
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2000
Strengths: great match to my body; as mentioned numerous times by others...rear-dampening/lock-out from the handlebar.
Weaknesses: quite heavy compared to my Kona... but with the geometry of the bike (x-tra pivot points, full suspension, etc.) x-tra weight was to be expected.
Bottom Line:
poor climbing had always kept me away from a full-mush ride, but this one does great. kept switching to my hard-tail on technical, low-speed trails for a few months, but now that I've gotten used to the "dampening on the fly", proficiency, comfort and enjoyment have soared. Love the bike. definately recomend it. mines a '99
