Submitted by
Jim A
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: September 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The ones you haven't discovered
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Even coming into the 5th year of riding this bike, I can't justify or find a reason to get something newer. Giant has tweaked the design, but not really changed it. It's been excellent from day one. Hey, they're still selling a ton of them, so you know it's a good design
Weaknesses:
After trashing the Formula brakes for the Shimano XT's and updating my shifters to LX, and replacing the original adequate Race Face crankset (The old prodigy was cheap, the newer Prodigy is decent) with a new LX, I think this bike is ready to rock for another 4 years!
Similar Products Used:
Read my previous reviews
Bike Setup:
You just heard it, in weaknesses...
Bottom Line:
Still loving the design after 4 years... Does it get better than that????
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim A
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: March 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Various
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction Toronto
Strengths:
Still a great ride even at 4 years old!!!
Weaknesses:
Original Formula brakes were garbage. Replaced with Shimano XT's 4 years ago, still delighted with them.
Similar Products Used:
Bikes
Bike Setup:
Changed Crankset (Original Race Face Prodigy was crap, newer Prodigy is a totally different Crank) to 2004 Deore LX, and it's sweet. 2000 XT disc brakes, XT shifters, bike's getting a bit worn but still a happy ride.
Bottom Line:
Best Bike I've had. While some of the new rides look attractive, I'm still in love with this baby!
Overall rating dinged one Chile for the POS Formula Brakes that Giant made me buy and never stood behind. (Where's the guy that decided on those things? I want to make him eat them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kelvin
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: December 27, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
bright enough paint job for urban nite rides, half decent components, "no bob" rear sus geometry
Weaknesses:
brakes...what brakes? weak rims, frame dents easily (I can even squeeze it but that's not the same as riding the bike), seatpost keeps on dropping due to weld inside the seattube protruding thru.
Similar Products Used:
proflex, team marin, marin bear valley, rocky mountain experience
Bike Setup:
XC, minor trials
Bottom Line:
Good bike for the money for a good rear suspension design components are half decent, frnt/rear susp. fairly well balanced (I'm 130pds), I'm heading in to trials, this bike definitely doesn't cut it for anymore better than beginners.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim A
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: November 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hilton Falls
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction
Strengths:
Well, here I am the first reviewer, finally coming back after having the bike for 2.5 years...
Overall been a solid performer. Changed the travel on the Judy's but not had any problems.
Weaknesses:
Didn't care for the shifters, upgraded to LX, Grips were too narrow (Personal Preference) Cheap RaceFace crankset has been crooked from day one (not severely, but I can see it if I look), will eventually throw it out and buy something straight, still have the original brakes on the shelf (because Giant should have been spanked for putting such crap on in the first place), the hydraulic Shimano disks I put on, still make me happy, Went with the Red Michelens just for fun, (between the gaudy paint and the tires, I get questions all the time about the bike...).
Similar Products Used:
Metal things with two wheels on them.
Bike Setup:
Original, except I put on my old WTB seat, went to LX shifters (shorter throw).
Bottom Line:
Hey I still love it... But there are days I wish I kept my Avalanche for doing some trials.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from Macau Date Reviewed: May 27, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Wing Lei Bicycles Macau
Strengths:
light suspension frame, go angle of tubing, feel soft when biking
Weaknesses:
a bit heavy of chainstays
Similar Products Used:
Giant XtC (hardtail) Team and XCX DS-1, Hasa EX-2 (made in Taiwan)
Bike Setup:
XtC frame, '01 SID 100, RS SID XC lock-out shock, Sun Ringle DS1 XC, Deore STi, XT mechs and cassette, Raceface Prodigy, Shimano Deore discs, Kore Lite stem, bar and seatpost, Selle Italia ATX
Bottom Line:
When I brought it, I took to re-built, with the components as above, but of coz, I fitted a lock-out shock as well. I use this of biking in streets, I haven't used this to go cc riding...I need to test it on off-roads...the bike is lighter than XCX's, that's I like it to...haha
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat Mullen
a Racer
from Albuquerque NM Date Reviewed: November 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
I could tell you but...
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Bike World
Strengths:
Light enough. Cheap enough. Good travel. Handles well. Very responsive.
Weaknesses:
I broke my frame after a year of use (many things that shouldn't be done to a xc bike). Giant replaced it no questions asked.
I switched to hayes mechanical with the help of Giant for $140 because the Formula mechanical brakes that the bike came with sucked. They had the deal through the shop and it really improved the ride.
Bottom Line:
It's a very hard bike to beat for the money. I raced all season on it and really appreciated the travel on the decents. It handles well and climbs with gusto. DO NOT try any drop-offs on the bike though. You'll bust your frame like I did. It's better and more fun to just buy the right bike for that if that's what you want to do. All around a darn good bike from a darn good company especially for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Redwood City, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Can't say
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycle
Strengths:
A lot of bike for the bucks
Weaknesses:
Major design flaw that the MFG knows about regarding the the shock mount welds on the seat tube.
Similar Products Used:
Tested and demo'd many brands
Bike Setup:
When I broke it, it was stock except for the Psylo XC, XTR Derailleurs and Ryno Lites with Panaracer Pyro (rear) and the Fire XC Pro (front)
Bottom Line:
Totally bummed that I broke this bike. I had finally gotten to the point that I was feeling very confident with it. The thing that really bums me out is that Giant actually knows about the design flaw (the shock mount welds fail under load). The problem was fixed on the 2001 NRS.
The good news is that I was able to upgrade to an AC Air for a couple hundred bucks.
The bad news is that the dealer couldn't get the outside sales rep to return his phone calls. After two weeks, I had to phone the factory to get the ball rolling on my warranty frame. My advice is that you stay on top of the factory if you have warranty issues. The dealers get no attention.
Giant is a good company that needs some help with their customer service department. 5 for value and 2 for overall because I should not have been able to break this bike the way I did with the type of riding that I do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RacerX
a Downhiller
from Reno, NV Date Reviewed: September 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hole in the Ground
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
Great frame and rear suspension
Weaknesses:
brakes,Unsealed integrated headset,Rear bushings, weak ass rims.Go 20lbs higher on the rear shock then what it says and DAM!!!Broke my XTR chain on this bike 7 times.I put the cheapest heaviest one I could find onit and it has been great since.
Bike Setup:
Totaly different bike now. The frame is what I bought it for.it's the same as the DS1
Bottom Line:
I posted a review after having mine for a year, since that time I have changed the stem,headset,Put a Phsylo SL on taken the big ring off in favor of a raceface rock guard, changed the bars to Monkey lite risers and the post to LP Carbon and changed the seat, Rims, and switched to Hayes mechanical........I know it's alot but I really love the frame..it's really a freeride bike now and trust me!!!!it handles it no problem......If you change two things on this bike make it the brakes and the rims....and put some 2.3" tires on it.........this bike is almost as badass as my downhill ride.....but not quite... : ).....Go ride.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daryl Faddy
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney NSW Australia Date Reviewed: July 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
inner city cycles. Glebe. Syd. Aust.
Strengths:
easiest bike i have ridden for doing everything from street to downhill, single track, etc
Weaknesses:
none so far as i had a few upgrades done before i picked the bike up.
Similar Products Used:
GT i-drive 5 and 6, i have also riden a few others that belong to friends. i would like to try the AC range to see if the feel if the longer travel suspension is as good, but for now i am very happy.
Bike Setup:
i have changed the handle bars to azonic 1/2 rise, deore hydrolic discs, hutchison tyres, and the best change so far has been to put judy sl forks. i have also had the granny ring removed as i find i get cramps when using it.My local shop helps me heaps with setup and for this i am more than greatful, these guys are the best.
Bottom Line:
this is my first full suspesion bike although i have ridden many others. i find this bike copes with everything i can throw at it. i ride on the street up and down stairs etc, mainly free riding. i do ride assorted trails on the weekends when i can get away, with this rangeing from single track to downhill type riding and have found no weakness with this bike for someone of my ability. this bike is by far one of the best toys i have purchased and is taking me away from my other passion which is motorcycles were i ride sports bikes as i love speed and try do a lot of track days to feed my adrenalin habit, which is being feed by my mountain bike very well.if you are looking for a full suspesion allrounder this is the bike, you will not be disappointed. Don't forget to set it up to suit your riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Saint Viper
a Cross Country Rider
from WI, USA Date Reviewed: June 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
John Muir Trail, WI
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Dennis Sports Shop
Strengths:
Suspension works well, decent components
Weaknesses:
Pedals are hard to get into, seat is not good, and handlebars way way too wide
Similar Products Used:
Trek 9000 (Rated worst FS bike ever)
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I picked up this bike from a shop that was going out of business and got a good deal on it. So far I've been very happy. The rear suspension is very well controlled and works well on both big and small bumps. The front works equally well though a little more preload would be nice. I weigh 220lbs so I don't expect to be able to dial out all the bob in the rear end. That said, with a little adjustment with there air pressure, I've managed to get rid of most of it. There are 2 stickers on the bike that say how to adjust the rear shock. Go with the one on the bike, not the one on the shock. The bike does make quite a bit of rattling and clanking noise on rough downhills. Tightning up all the suspension joints (there are lots of them)helps, but it still sounds loose. It doesn't feel loose though which is good.
The shifters work well under load. Shifter action is a little light, but it works well once you get used to it. Shifts are fast and solid, you can shift while standing up. They gear indictors are useless as they don't line up with the markers, but who uses those anyway? At least they are small.
Only minor complaints about the bike so far. The pedals are more difficult to get into than my old Shimano SPD's, and the release tension when set to max is just good enough. The seat isn't the worst I've ridden on and looks good, but could be a little more comfortable. The only really screwy thing with the bike is the width of the handlebars. I suppose it's best to start out wide so you can cut them down, but geeze, if Hulk Hogan were riding the bike, he'd be right at home. Well I cut them down and now they are fine.
I see lots of complaints about the brakes. Mine have been fine so far. I hear that both Giant and Formula have replacement policies, so the problems must be real, but mine have been fine so far. Since the new bikes have different brakes, that's not much of an issue anymore, but don't let the brakes keep you from buying this bike. Try them out first and if you don't like that, Giant will send you new ones.
Overall I give this bike 4 chili's since it's kind of heavy and the components aren't top of the line. That doesn't bother me since I'm heavy and not going racing, but the DS1 is better so I can't give this bike a 5. For the value though it's tough to beat so I give it 5 chili's there. If this bike is in your price range, I strongly recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbus, Oh Date Reviewed: June 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything that is steep
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
BikeSource
Strengths:
The best part about the bike is the promised no power loss under pedaling. Nice component mix. Best value of the full suspension bikes that I tried out. The concept of disc brakes is a good idea.(After the Hayes swap out). Nice smooth ride, but not the best balanced climber (riser bar and stem issue). The front manitou shock is plush, just as they claim. Good Job Giant!!!
Weaknesses:
The brakes are the absolute worst part of this bike. Take advantage of the swap-out from Giant.
Bottom Line:
The bike is the best value for the money. Giant is an award-winning company for their NRS for a damn good reason. This bike kicks ass. Swap the brakes as soon as u get it and also change the riser and stem to something lower if you plan on climbing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Redwood City, CA, USA Date Reviewed: June 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Dirt ones
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycle
Strengths:
It carries my heavy a#@ up and down the hill without the wheels or frame folding!
Weaknesses:
Crappy Formula MD-1 won't stop squealing!! One day Giant will honor their upgrade offer and give me the Hayes I was promised when I purchased it. Maybe then I will stop scaring the wildlife and small children on the trail and people will stop pointing and laughing as I ride by.
Manitou SX fork...janky adjustment and $25 for the special grease gun to lube it? Whose idea was that?
Similar Products Used:
Demo'd many brands in the sub $1500 price range before settling on this one.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the Panaracer XCs
Bottom Line:
The fact that it carries all 250lbs of me up and down the hill with very little pedal bob while managing a really plush DH experience speaks volumes to this bikes ability and design. If you are in the market for a solid entry level bike that will give you a lot of bang for the buck then this is the bike to buy!! $900 bought a heckuva lotta bike. I doubt there is anything other than the brakes and maybe the fork that I would change on this scoot.
If you are looking to start out and don't want to spend a a@#load of money then this the ride for you!!
Five for value 'cuz I gotta a rippin' deal. Four for overall because after three months I still can't Giant to upgrade my brakes as promised! Come on guys!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Weekend Warrior
from nj Date Reviewed: June 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Local shop
Strengths:
What can I say great bike !!!! Just Finsh a 24 hours race on this bike.The bike ran great.This company just got bike of the year 2001.If anyone is looking for a great bike check this bike out!!!!!
Weaknesses:
Thin paint on the frame.Seat post makes noise.Fix grease the seat post
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Changed the brakes out.
Bottom Line:
Please check out this company for bikes !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carlos D'Anda
a Weekend Warrior
from El Paso Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Gilberts'
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Crazy Cat Cyclery
Strengths:
this is my first full suspension, but the thing handles awesome. It climbs and decends like it's glued to the ground!!! very comfortable overall.
Weaknesses:
so far I'm not convinced with the mechanical discbrakes, and the Judy it came with feels a bit soft when going down big rocks, but that's about it!
Similar Products Used:
none, first full-suspension
Bike Setup:
SID on the back, and JUDY on the front. Hutchinson tubeless tires (love these things!!!) Avid mechanical disc brakes, SHIMANO XT and RaceFace components. (are XTR components really that much better than XT's?)
Bottom Line:
...this thing rules!!! you defintily get your money's worth
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Richland Wa Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1299.00
Strengths:
Very good bike with some great componets. It handles like it is glued to the ground.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
FSR, rocket 88
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. I can ride it hard into the corners and know I will make it out. I really like the disk brakes. When they start making noise sand the rotors with some 220 grit sand paper lightly and that should take care of it. Its a great bike for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lenny Buck
a Weekend Warrior
from Bolton, CT 06043 Date Reviewed: April 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Drop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Escape (LBS)
Strengths:
Solid suspension design, great on climbs.
Weaknesses:
Rims, needed a littel truing after 5 rides, but I went off some drop-offs.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
XTC DS/2 Rear Xthub w/Sun Rhyno Lite rim, Avid break levers, Hayes Mechanical.
Bottom Line:
This bike is designed very well for a crosscountry rider, and handles very well on down hills. Although the wheels aren't made for drop-offs, they held up well. thats why I upgraded to a Sun Rhyno lite rim w/Shimano XT disc mountable hubs. This is the bike to get it is GREAT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from Cincinnati, OH USA Date Reviewed: March 24, 2001
2001 NRS 3, Bike is very responsive, upgradeable, and low priced. Downhill it gives you just enough travel for you to be in complete control and gives the ability to reach high speeds. Uphill it DOES NOT BOB = me being able to reach the top without others planning my funeral. The sid rear shock is great for customizing your riding situations. I'm married to it, lets hope I don't get a divorce.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James McCallum
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: March 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Naseby
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Laurie Dawe Cycles
Weaknesses:
Bushes in pivots on suspension at rear
Bike Setup:
same as below
Bottom Line:
More my fualt than anything but something for every one to think about
As I ws not instructed by the bike shop I wasnt aware tht the rear bushes in the rear need cleaned - consequently they have worn out after 1500km so just a word of advise I will be cleaning the replacements after every 5-10 rides
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Draven
a Cross Country Rider
from USA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Frame. Rear & front shocks.
Weaknesses:
Formula disk breaks. Colors.
Similar Products Used:
Giant atx 970 full suspension. Cannondale super V-900 full suspension.
The frame is just great. It stays active through the bumps and rocks but you don't get that swinging motion when pedaling like in the Cannondale super V frames. You should replace the Formula MD1 disk brakes (cable) - they don't work well. I recomand to reset the front shock to 100mm, so it will give you a kind of a freeride bike with the 95mm travel at the back. Other than that, it's a great bike!!! I don't see any reason I would buy another bike for the next few years.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William Keith
a Cross Country Rider
from Somerset West, South Africa Date Reviewed: November 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Grabouw Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Maverick
Strengths:
Wow - so many of them. For an FS bike, the weight I reckon is pretty good. The NRS system is just plain awesome -climbs like a hard tail. So many of my mates comment as we climb that they are still waiting for the rear to bob. Geometry is good. Race Face crank is great. Descents into Hell are made an absolute pleasure.
Weaknesses:
The Brakes!!!!!! read my report on the Formulas They gave me endless grief.
Similar Products Used:
Supermarket special that shall remain nameless
Bike Setup:
Bog standard execpt for LX at the front and hopefully the Hayes will arrive before the weekend. Also upgraded the tyres to full Continentals (huge improvement on the WTB's)
Bottom Line:
I'm in love with this bike. It climbs very well and downhill - well you just gotta try it. The control is superb, even at breakneck speeds. Both front and rear suspension soak up anything the trail throws at the bike. if the rock or logs too big the bike bunny hops like a dream. One reveiw commented on the rear derailleur clanking on the swingarm - tightly wrap an old innertube around the swingarm and finish off with plastic pull ties - end of problem. The handle bars felt a little wide to start off with but I can't quite bring myself to chopping off 15 to 20mm to compensate. The bike is great value for money but someone please tell Giant to sort out the Formula brakes. I've subtracted 1 chilli due to the brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bugalugs Jnr
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: November 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anyway out of the City
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Cranks in Nth Sydney
Strengths:
NRS is as good as everyone says. Formula MD1s aren't as bad as all the reviews on these brakes suggest, I have yet to experience any problems or trail situations that would cause me to upgrade to hydraulics. The frame is solid and rider posture is ideal for cross country pursuits.
Weaknesses:
Formula Mechanical Discs do squeal and take a while to bed in. The bike does feel a little heavy. Rear deraileur hits the lower trailing arm on rocky sections making an annoying "clacking" noise (can easily fix with lizard skin).
Similar Products Used:
GT Backwoods, Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Hutchinson Alligators, Judy XC front, SID Rear, Deore/LX drivetrain, Formula Mech discs, Oury grips & titec bar ends. With plans to extend the Judy out to 100mm travel.
Bottom Line:
Giant has done a great job with these bikes. For the price I paid there was nothing close on the market that could offer similar suspension, drivetrain and disc brakes, therefore they represent great value for money. I started riding about 4 months ago on a hardtail ... as you can see I came to my senses very quickly. Since I have had the bike the entire trail riding experience has been thoroughly enjoyable, even the uphill bits. Whether your riding cross country, single track or suicidal downhill drops this bike ceases to amaze. The tyre upgrade has made a hell of a difference on tight and hard packed trails, certainly a worth giving considertaion to when purchasing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Cape Cod, MA Date Reviewed: November 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$999.00
Strengths:
Rear suspension is fantastic. Front may be too, once I figure out how best to adjust it. Feels soft in the meantime, but this is my first Full Suspension bike.
Weaknesses:
Manuals are contradictory and so full of lawyer-ese that it's hard to find the technical info. For example, there are several different suggestions for setting rear shock pressures. The sticker on the bike contradicts all of them and seems to be more accurate, but that's no way to document a product.
Bike is heavier than my old Cannondale, but I'm learning to love it anyway.
Frame geometry and wide bars equal faster steering than I'm used to. I've gotten in trouble trying to slide certain corners as a result.
Similar Products Used:
none -- first full susp. bike
Bike Setup:
stock DS-2
Bottom Line:
I love the bike and even its brakes. See my separate post under Formula Brake Systems for simple adjustment which cured what I thought was going to be a fatal flaw.
It climbs stuff my hardtail would lie down and die on. Shifting is very smooth and reliable, once adjusted properly.
I'm giving it top value points as I managed to find it for under $1,000, which is a lotta bike for the buck.
I'm deducting one flame for the handling issues, but after I put more miles on the bike, that could change.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James McC
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Technical Single track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Lawrie Dawe Cycles
Strengths:
See reveiw below
Weaknesses:
Hmmmm - freewheel body goes rusty and needs an overhual if cleaned regularly and not dried wellafter three months
Similar Products Used:
WorldRider full ridgid, Marin Hardtails, K2 fullsus
Bike Setup:
Hope XC2, otherwise stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money, shame some of the componentry lets down the excellent frame design - Purchased bike on July 25th since then have ridden approx.1200km-1400km the majority of which was off road single track around local hills - will upgrade components as old wear out - rear hub real soon!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Dunn
a Cross Country Rider
from England Date Reviewed: October 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Red Bull route Coed y Brenin
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Ken Ellerker cycles Hull
Strengths:
Solid frame, rear shock, hydro discs as standard. Free NRS race kit upon purchase of the bike worth about £100!!!!!
Weaknesses:
Judy xc forks have 10mm negative travel which feels like play when riding on flattish stuff. No riser bars. Saddle gives you the numbest ass you're ever likely to get.
Similar Products Used:
none, just gone full sus.
Bike Setup:
Hope XC2 disc on front, then stock.
Bottom Line:
What an ace bike!!!!!!!!!!!!!. You poor Americans got totally laughable brakes but these are alright. I had a Hope on my hardtail, and that went straight on, but the back brake is really powerful(Magura Clara). You can hit a foot high boulder on this bike at 30 mph and not notice it!. Just set the upper chamber with higher pressure than it tells you to. Mines set to 60 psi instead of 50, this gives you a much plusher ride, for very little sag. Wasn't too sure about grip shifters, but they're cool, miles better than Shimano rubbish which needs adjusting every ride! I'm not joking when I say I went 50% faster down hill on this than on my Kona Blast hard-tail, it just fills you with confidence......... BUY IT!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Simon Richards
a Weekend Warrior
from Newcastle, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: October 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
fast technical single track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Hadley Cycles
Strengths:
This is a great bike out of the box! Race Face cranks have to top the list. Rock Shox front and rear are well matched, especially with the NRS setup.
Weaknesses:
Flat bars and bar ends butthis is personal preference really and not a problem with the bike itself. The brakes, well, they tend to deteriate with time. I think this is more of a problem with the pad compound though. When properly set up, they work relatively well. The squeeling is simply a cleaning and adjustment problem.
Similar Products Used:
Giant hardtails 860 and 870, Specialised FSR XC and several others.
Bike Setup:
Basically standard with FUNN 1" riser bars and Tioga pedals added for more of a freeride feel.
Bottom Line:
Most people tend to buy this bike for its sensational cross country ability, however, with a few modifications i.e.loose some pressure in the negative chamber,add riser bars and a slightly smaller frame and this bike becomes a solid all-day trail bike that switches to a free ride bike on call. PERFECT! For most cross country situations I found the braks adequate but probably don't justify the extra weight they add. An upgrade to hydraulics is probably a serious consideration for the future. With the current brakes, make sure there is a rubber boot protecting the cable where it enters the sleeve. My rear boot was missing and a lot of brake power was lost in the rear due to dust and mud etc getting in the sleeve. The frame is super stiff and strong and, considering what it has already been through, it looks like it will last a long time. The XTC DS2 is a FUN bike to ride. It promotes stupidity by allowing you to pick paths you would normally avoid on a hardtail. Five chilis for the overall rating because this really is a great all round bike for a very reasonable price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Plata
a Racer
from Brockville, Ontario Date Reviewed: September 15, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
J&J Cycle, Kingston, ON
Strengths:
Great Frame design, love the rear suspension design, shocks work great, good cranks, came with bar ends
Weaknesses:
The brakes suck, just read every other report in here! The seat is as hard as a rock. Did I mention that the Formula Mech. Disc brakes suck!!!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Ground Control
Bike Setup:
Basically still stock
Bottom Line:
Overall I love the bike!!! Frame, Rock Shox's and the rear suspension design work great. Componentry is good for the price of the bike but I expect to upgrade as components wear out/ break. Absolutely hate the brakes and I will be upgrading to Hydraulics very shortly! At two different races, both in very rainy/muddy conditions, I completely lost all braking ability! In response to my problems I have not received any support from Formula or Giant however, my bike shop has been great and I am currently working on a deal with them to upgrade to Hayes for minimum cost. Formula hubs haven't caused any problems (knock on wood!) I like the cranks and have not had any problems with the LX bottom bracket but I intend to upgrade to an XT or XTR in the future. I've already had to replace the chain but as I mentioned above I've been racing in some awful conditions. The pedals have already developed play in the bearings so I'm not overly impressed with them.
Descending the bike tracks straight and hammers through the worst stuff with no worries. Climbs as good as a hard tail. I swear to God that the rear suspension does not move while climbing!!
I give it 3 chilis for the value - it would be 4 or 5 if it weren't for the brakes as it will still cost me to upgrade.
4 chilis for overall rating, it would've been a 5 if not for the brakes again.
This is a great bike for a weekend warrior and with some small upgrades is a very competitive sport class XC racer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ROBERT LEBLOND
a Cross Country Rider
from NORWICH Date Reviewed: August 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
SINIPSIC STATE FOREST CT
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
RAY WILLIS RHODE ISLAND
Strengths:
VERY NICE REAR SUSPENSION SETUP. NO BOBING. GOES UP HILLS LIKE A HARDTAIL, BUT DOWNHILL VERY SMOOTH. NICE CRANK.
Weaknesses:
BRAKES. I HAVE A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH THE REAR BRAKE. THE FRONT WORKS GREAT BUT THE REAR HARDLY WORKS AT ALL.(IT DEFINATLY NEEDS HYDRAULIC BRAKES IN THE REAR.) FRONT SHOCK IS ALSO A LITTLE WEAK, NOT STIFF ENOUGH.
Similar Products Used:
SPECIALIZED FSR XC, JAMIS, SCHWINN MOAB
Bike Setup:
ORIGINAL SETUP WITH PANARACER TIRES
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE IS GREAT FOR THE MONEY. ITS A HEAVY BIKE BUT WHEN RIDING IT IT FEELS LIGHT ENOUGH. I HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE RIM WARPING AFTER I RODE IT 5 TIMES, BUT CALLED WTB AND THEY HAVE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE. IF YOU CAN FIND ONE OF THESE BIKES THEN YOU SHOULD BUY IT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john hunter
a Weekend Warrior
from slidell Louisiana Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
none
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great fork, awesome rear suspespension, geometry, soaks up bumps, good components, race face crank
Weaknesses:
heavy, brakes suck, stem too short
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this bike is good for just goin out and havin fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keyser Soze
a Weekend Warrior
from New Mexico Date Reviewed: July 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great rear suspension, NO bob, rides like a hardtail, but eats up the rough stuff.
Weaknesses:
Brakes are awfull. If you want to find out how bad check out MTBR's Reviews for the Formula MD-1's. They squeel like a stuck pig. It's actually embarassing! Also some of the reviewers indicated they had CRITICAL failures of these breaks.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, GT (don't recall the models), Marin
Bike Setup:
Stock, but not for long.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike except for the brakes. I have already placed an order for Shimano XT Hydraulic Discs to replace them. I have read here that these disc brakes work well if you just adjust them right. Well, I have tried everything (yes, I read the Formula manual) and they continue to make an intolerable racket and the stopping power is nothing to brag about.
The NRS rear suspension is better by far than any of the bikes I've demo'd. It has a hardtail feel when you need it, and a bump eating ride where you would want it. All your pedaling power goes to the wheels instead of to the suspension.
If I had it all to do over again I would have kicked in the extra $500.00 for the DS1, instead I am having to spend the nearly the same just to upgrade these awful brakes. However I still think that this bike is an excellent deal for the buck and if I didn't have the extra $500 I would buy this bike again without hesitation.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
W.M Smith
a Racer
from Reno, NV USA Date Reviewed: July 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Northgate Loop
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Solid,Solid Bike........I don't care what anyone else say's this bike has taken a severe beating and is thirsty for more.
Weaknesses:
Disc brakes sqeal.....use some WD40....just a little and they will stop. Component group......still great for the money though.
Similar Products Used:
Lots.....
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to avid 2.0's and XTR rear lx shifters and front der.
Bottom Line:
This Bike rocks......trust me......NRS is the best rear suspension design I have been on....(0)bob......
I beat the crap outa mine.....and it wants more.....upgrade the components when you get the chance and you have a full on race ready bike.......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James McC
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: July 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
good single track
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
NRS: this really works I get no bobing on the flat and absolutely none on the climbs. Good Price reasonably light for a FS bike
Weaknesses:
Well, other reveiwers say the brakes but I cant say as got a good Deal on Hope brakes with my bike other than that I'd have to say the rear cluster skips in some of the higher gears when put under pressure also Dont know how but broke a tooth out of the Race Face Middle ring. Hmmmmm???
Similar Products Used:
Only Demo'ed Marin Hard Tail's and K2 FullSus bikes
A few teething problems to begin with but now the bike's setup for me, an awsome bike for the dollars spent. LBS gave me a good deal on bike and accessories, NRS really does stop the bobing problem and takes the bigger hits no problem too. I found the seat a little harder than what Im used to but its fine now Im used to it. If your looking for a good FS XC bike then this or perhaps the DS1 is your bike - definately go with this frame. Will reveiw again after more riding but over the last week I've done about 200km(120Miles) and no Probs so far
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Edwin van Woudenberg
a Cross Country Rider
from Eindhoven- Holland Date Reviewed: July 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Best
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Rear suspension
Weaknesses:
Formula mechanical disc drives (disaster) Suntour Crankset (not even good enough for my granfathers bike) Saddle (very painfull)
Bike Setup:
XtC-Ds3, Aluxx frame, SRAM 7.0, Formula MD-1, Suntour MG-91
Bottom Line:
For cross country usage the bike is good. The fullsuspension is great, comfort and no lost of power! The price is right (1200$) but unfortunately that resulted in some cheap and bad parts. The crankset was too bad to drive with, I checked the store and concluded that all cranksets on the Xtc-DS3 were bad. Furthermore the brakes don't brake especially in the mud and they are also not straight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jd
a Cross Country Rider
from hartford,ct. usa Date Reviewed: July 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
resevoir
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
NRS,COMPONENT GRUPPO, BRAKES ( WHEN SET UP PROPERLY ); SEAT
Weaknesses:
PEDALS;FRONT FORK
Similar Products Used:
KONA STAB DELUX; SCHWINN ROCKETT 88; SCHWINN S-10; GARY FISCHER SUGAR 1; SPECIALIZED FSR AND S-WORKS;ELLSWORTH TRUTH
Bike Setup:
STOCK
Bottom Line:
I'M GOING TO SAY THIS RIGHT OFF THE BAT: SET YOUR MECHANICAL DISC BRAKES UP RIGHT FROM THE START AND THEY ARE SUPER! I INTENTIONALLY CHOSE A BIKE W/MECHANICALS BECAUSE I DON'T LIKE THE WEIGHT OR MAINTAINENCE ISSUES OF HYDRAULICS.... UNTIL THE AVID MECHANICALS HIT THE MARKET THESE ARE THE BEST WHEN SET UP CORRECTLY.... THIS BIKE RIDES LIKE A DREAM. I RIDE A VERY ROCKY, ROOTY, VERTICAL TRAIL WHERE THE GOING IS FAST AND THE ROCKS ARE BIG AND THE ASCENTS ARE LONG-I NEVER COULD MAKE THE ASCENTS BECAUSE I COULDN'T GET ENOUGH JUICE TO THE FLOOR.... THAT IS UNTIL I GOT THIS BIKE. IT TAKES BIG HITS IN STRIDE AND CLIMBS LIKE MY BELOVED STEEL HARDTAIL.... I NEVER THOUGHT I'D GO FOR A DUALIE BUT THIS RIG ROCKS! THE SX IS A LITTLE TOO PLUSH FOR MY TASTE BUT IT'S NOT BOINGY.THE PEDALS...WELL THEY'RE WELLGO AND THAT'S ABOUT ALL YOU CAN SAY, NOT ENOUGH FLOAT THOUGH...OH, ONE OTHER THING. I HATE ALUMINUM IN GENERAL, BUT THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST COMFORTABLE ALUMINUMS I'VE EVER RIDDEN. THIS IS NOT A FREERIDE BIKE BUT IT IS AN AWESOME RIDE. THIS IS THE TYPE OF BIKE TO BUY WHEN YOU'VE RIDDEN LONG ENOUGH TO BE BEYOND THE HYPE. THE DS-1 WAS BIKE OF THE YEAR,W/ A BETTER FORK, THE DS-2 COULD HAVE BEEN AS WELL.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Homer
a
from Moab, Utah - USA Date Reviewed: July 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Burro to Porki
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
It's cheap for suspension this good and so far very solid. Best of all it goes forward when I pedal. That's cool.
Weaknesses:
As a stock machine, the parts group is a bit under cooked - but for the money it's great. Expect to upgrade as you go. Switch out the front fork first. Do some shopping around. It will be hard to find a better value...and quit complaining about the brakes. They work great once they are broken in and are set up right - that last bit is soooo key.
Similar Products Used:
Hum...Ventana Marble Peak, Ventana Salt, Turner XCE, Voodoo Canzo ESP, Many different models of Specailized FSR, Yeti AS3, Schwinn S10 and 4 Banger, Kona Stinky, Rocky Mountain Element, The Y bikes, The Joshuas, Proflex, Elsworth Truth, Cannondale V series, Jamis Dakar Expert and a bunch more.
Bike Setup:
The bike is far from a stock DS2. I've put a Manitou X Vert Super on the front end (amazing fork), Rhyno Lite XL rims with XT Disk hubs, Race Face BB, Race Face Turbine LP crankset w/ rings, Time ATAC Carbon pedals, Titec Berserker Ti saddle, Titec Carbon seatpost, Salsa seatpost QR, SRAM 9.0 shifters, SRAM 9.0 rear derailluer, SRAM PC69 chain, Paul LPZ brake levers, Avid Flak Jacket cables and WTB Motoraptor 2.4 tires. The reast of the stuff is stock...I think. I think it's heavier than stock, but in my neck of the woods (or should we say rocks) we have a saying...HEAVY MEANS HEAVY DUTY.
Bottom Line:
This thing rides great - better that many of the more expensive and bigger travel bikes I have sampled over the years. It rides like it has more than 3 inches. It climbs great and is a confidant descender - it even handles 5 foot drops amazingly well. It's a great bike for anyone looking for a do it all full suspension rig. These bikes are very hard to find in the US. I got lucky. The 2001 models should be popping up soon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marky D
a Weekend Warrior
from San Carlos, CA, USA Date Reviewed: July 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
monte bello
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
NRS really works. Bang for the buck. Paint job makes me crave fast food.
Weaknesses:
Formula MD-1 brakes suck.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Rocket 88, Rocky mtn Spice
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I love the frame and bike in general. NRS is not just hype, it really does give you the best of both worlds. Low overall rating is entirely because of the brakes, which are simply awful. I thought about switching to V-brakes, but rims and frame are disc-only.
Owned for 3 weeks, then exchanged it for the DS/1 because I could not stand the MD-1 brakes anymore. DS/1 is $550 more, which is about the same price as Hayes hydros alone at retail. Plus with the DS/1 you get a lighter fork and better deraillers and rims.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave nichols
a Cross Country Rider
from brandon Date Reviewed: May 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
brandon hills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The rear suspension does not bob as advertized for the price components are pretty good.
Weaknesses:
the md-1 brakes need cleaning every ride to keep them from sqealing. Try rubbing alcohol and a paper towel wipe both side of the disk and it will kill the noise takes 1min.
Similar Products Used:
lot's of the quality fs bikes to many to list.
Bike Setup:
stock plan to upgrade things as needed
Bottom Line:
This is a very good bike. Suspension works great on the medium and large hits small who cares. Brakes work great once there broken-in and keep them clean or you can't stand the sound. Giant has bad customer service from what I can tell I never hung up the phone feeling satified.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Tempe, Arizona Date Reviewed: April 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Circle K Burger King Loop
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Excellent FS Phun! Haven't actaully wired the rear shock yet (SID), but I'm within 3 - 4 pounds of perfection (no coil over girth to tow around anymore is a good thing).
Weaknesses:
I would have purchased this bike w/o disks, but I view these as just another challenge to overcome. There's plenty of recommendations on these pages, and I intend to follow them as soon as a problem arises...
Similar Products Used:
Y Bike, Proflex EVO 3
Bike Setup:
Pure Stock
Bottom Line:
Great components for the price, I got mine on sale for under under 1200. Comfy seat, lots of bump eating motion front and back. Haven't figured out the Manitou SX forks either, but I like the way they ride. This weekend warrior and 1/month commuter gives this light weight steed a hefty 5 burning cows for value, and 4 for overall rating.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PJ
a Cross Country Rider
from FLA Date Reviewed: March 31, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Ride,componets,$$$
Weaknesses:
9 speed Shimano, grips, Nascar looking paint job.
Similar Products Used:
Trek vrx, trek stp, Klein Mantra, FSR, Sugar
Bike Setup:
Stock with 9.0sl shifter/derailer.
Bottom Line:
Brakes are improving with each use. LBS said to give them 100 miles then decide. Ride is real good. Plusher than I expected. Bike accelerates quick! Handles well with NO pedal feedback. Shimano 9 speed ghost shifts bad after jumps, so I switched to gripshift.Overall very pleased. Would buy it again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim A
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: March 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hilton Falls
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good Value for the money
Weaknesses:
The Brakes, but if I expected hydralic disks, I would have expected to pay for them as well, and this review would be in the DS/2 section instead.
Brakes have improved greatly with use, as well as proper set-up. I had to adjust the lever angle on the front so that it was approx. 90 degs when engaging to get the most leverage possible. Still not hydraulics, but I may consider the new Shimano XT's if they ever release them... For now, these work.
The ride is fabulous and that's why I went for this bike. It feels like my hardtail when I climb, but works great as full suspension.
The RS Judy XC feels too soft, but I haven't had problems with it bottoming out regularly, so it's most likely a perception problem, not a performance one.
Deore shifters don't feel as good as old XT's I'm used to, but they function well.
Overall, some of the components could be better, but again, I could also stop trying to be so cheap and spend more to get them, so let's be fair here and say the bike is good value. If it wasn't, I wouldn't have bought it.
I like the fact that the new Judy's are adjustable in their travel. I may pop this apart and take it up to the 100mm travel, just because I can, and to see how this makes a difference.
Could be a bit lighter. Then again, I could have spent more. I could be lighter too...
Considering the Brand, Price and overall performance, I give this bike 5 chiles on both. I don't blame Giant for my being cheap, I could have spent more to get the DS/1 if I really wanted Hayes that bad!
Now if Giant Canada would supply the shock air pump with the bike, I wouldn't have to spend money on one. Especially since the U.S. and Europe get them for free. -1 Chile for Giant Canada not representing the parent company as well as the distributors in other parts of the planet. Giant, I hope you read this and pay attention!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sjak Mandigers
a Cross Country Rider
from Boxtel, Netherlands Date Reviewed: March 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ardennen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
the rear shock
Weaknesses:
the fork is too soft. Giant put a very cheap chain on the bike so it ruined the casette, the chainwheel and the derailleur. In the mud and rain the brakes stop working after about one hour. You can pull them as hard as you can but they don't do nothing at all. Within a few kilometers the brakepads are gone.
Similar Products Used:
Batavus, Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
rear shock, rock shox SID; fork, rock shox judy xc; brakes, giant MPH hydraulisch; hubs, formula; gears, sram esp 7.0
Bottom Line:
The bike is a disaster, after two weeks i got a new one from giant, a few weeks later my dealer changed the brakes and levers for a new one. Another few weeks later the whole bike was send to giant, they replaced the chain, casette, the chainwheel and the derailleur and also the brakes and levers and this one should work but the brakepads are still the old one, so they still don't work. They work perfect when there is no rain or mud. Also the rear hub isn't watertight at the side of the casette, the bearing was soon ruined by the mud. It is a killer bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sjak Mandigers
a Cross Country Rider
from Netherlands Date Reviewed: March 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ardennen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
the rear shock
Weaknesses:
the front shock, it is very soft the brakes, in de mud or rain, after one hour they stop working. And in no time the pads are gone. You can pull the brakes as hard as you can but they do nothing at all. The chain it was a very cheap one and it ruined the cranks and the casette and the sram esp 7.0. The rear hub isn't watertight at the site of the casette and bearing was soon ruined.
Similar Products Used:
batavus, specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
rear shox= rock shox SID, fork= rock shox judy XC, brakes=giant MPH hydraulisch, hubs= formula, gears=sram esp 7.0
Bottom Line:
I have this bike 12 weeks, everything except the frame has been renewed. The brakes even 3 times. And still they don't work in de rain and in the mud, i think and giant also, the problem are the brakepads. Still there is no solution. It is a killer bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Tromp
a Cross Country Rider
from Apeldoorn, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: February 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hoenderloo
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Superb value for money. Mine is actually a DS3. In the Netherlands it comes after DS Team, 1 and 2. Only one without a CU 92 frame, which I tested, but with a 6061 Aluxx frame. It's relatively cheap but everything works. I only experienced real cheap Vs before so the Formula MD1 mechanicals where a surprise form the word go. The front was fabulous, but the rear not. After the first service after three weeks, everything was fine. Suntour MG91 forks up front do everything there supposed to. RS SID shock is there, works flawlessly. Drivertrain is completely SRAM 7.0 and I think this the best so far. Have ridden LX mech and shifters, but these are nicer, especially on looks. Front mech is definitely the best I ever rode.
Weaknesses:
Brakes could be stronger, they might be on the way out if can afford a Magura Clara or Louise based wheelset. Selle italia Nitrox saddle is a literal pain in the ass. Chucked it after picking it up from the dealer in favour of my old Giant Boulder saddle
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
6061 Aluxx frame, Formula MD 1 Mechanical disc brakes with SRAM 7.0 levers, SRAM 7.0 mechs and shifters, Giant Boulder saddle, Club Roost Go Fast bars, Suntour MG 91 forks, Rockshox SID Dual air rear shock, Weinmann ZAC 19 rims, Suntour 22-32-44 crankset with darkgrey rings
Bottom Line:
The Giant NRS won't bother you with all the down sides you've ever read about full suspension bikes. Works like a hard tail, simple as that. Carries parts that do their work, when you get a more expensive version they get better.Formula mechanicals aren't the best around, but a good start for riding with disc brakes. Don't expect XTR performance out of Acera priced parts, that's the bottom line on those brakes. At least it gets you a disc specific frame. Finish on my $1200 Giant is better than on a $2000 Trek 8500 LT. Trek use adapters for carrying the hydraulic cable of the rear disc brake along the toptube that fit into the cable only stubs. Giant has fitted hydraulic and cable rear brake stubs as standard. Very tidy. Apart from the brakes I think the bike performs well above it's price level.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim A
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: February 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hilton Falls
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Suspension works well and doesn't bob. Feels like my trusty GT Avalanche, but no pounding of my ass over the rocks...
Weaknesses:
I hope these Formula brakes get better, really fast, or I'm going to see how far I can throw them! My old LX V's work better... Very dissapointing...
Similar Products Used:
GT I-Drive... Would have bought one GT, but you're ripping us off!
Bike Setup:
Stock - Well for Canada, I suppose! The swingarm is not as pictured in the catalogue, it's actually just like the team bike. A buddy got the same bike, but it came with Diatech cable disks.
Bottom Line:
Just got the DS-2. First impressions on a test ride were really good, so I got the bike muddy and then bought it. I find it's great in every aspect, except the brakes... If the brakes get better, I'll update the review to 5 flaming hot chiles!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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