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Submitted by
fang_x
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Local | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Craigslist | | Strengths: | Very Great bike, stock suspension isent the best but it works better then the walmart brand bikes^_^. I love the brakes on this bike and the overall size and the way it seems to flow over obstacles. | | Weaknesses: | shocks suck | | Similar Products Used: | other giant bikes | | Bike Setup: | stock, hayes hydralic disk brakes | | Bottom Line: | My favorite bike so far, im planning to upgrade the suspension, then it can take everything i throw at it. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from orange county, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | laguna beach | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | fork and brakes | | Bike Setup: | bomber fork, fox float rear, hayes hydro disc brakes, raceface crankset, deore lx derailers | | Bottom Line: | giant is great. this bike is realativily light so i can get through the climbs. at the same time this bike tears up the downhills. moreover, this bike is strong, and doesnt need much maintenance. i recommend this bike to everyone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George
a Weekend Warrior
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: March 25, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | mtbr.com classified | | Strengths: | truly fulfills the moniker of "all conditions": you can adjust the travel to hit the XC trails and then with a hex wrench and 2 minutes convert it to a decent downhill rig. | | Weaknesses: | the original rock shox deluxe rear shock sucked, apparently, so much so that the original owner replaced it w/ a fox vanilla RC w/ propedal. i love the fox and its adjustability is tremendous. also the koski engineering seat was terrible. true, it is heavy at 36#, but just get yourself in better shape! | | Similar Products Used: | this is my first FS bike, having upgraded from a fuji HT that i had built up. | | Bike Setup: | stock except rhyno lites, fizik nisene seat, WTB weirwolves 2.5 front, 2.3 rear, and the fox as above. | | Bottom Line: | if you're looking to buy a bike that can do everything XC, FR, and DH, you're not going to find it. if, however, you're like most of us and don't want to spend $5000 on 3 bikes to do each of these kinds of riding, get an AC. you'll do very well at each of these riding types, the bike can stand up to a ton of abuse, and you can get a good used one for less than a grand. truly an incredible bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nando Redrum
a Weekend Warrior
from Bronx, NY
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Sprain Ridge, Graham Hills | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | A Friend | | Strengths: | Strong Frame, Excellent handling | | Weaknesses: | RockShox pro deluxe. This is not a shock for heavy dudes like me. I weigh 225. The seat is pretty uncomfortable too. | | Bike Setup: | Stratos Helix Expert rear shock (Smooth), IRC Kujo DH Tires(2.65) MRP chain guide system, 2001 Marzocchi Jr. T fork. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike from a friend who put it through some serious hardcore drop abuse. Now I’m riding it and though I don’t take it off 10 to 15’ drops, I’m content with 4’ to 6’. The bike handles well and has taught me a lot about control. Some of my friends say eventually I’ll want to get a better bike and even though that’s probably true, I still think this bike rocks. I’m nowhere near the rank of a DH veteran but riding this bike makes me feel like I could reach that point one day. Besides the component problems I’ve faced (replacement of a broken derailleur hanger, a sh_tty rear hub, a non-drive side crank, The rock shox rear shock etc.), and the ever continuing falls and crashes, this bike still holds up to my abuse. On top of this I weigh 225 making this bike awesome for tolerating this kind of treatment. This bike is great for the 200 plus freerider. Just makes sure the components are durable enough to withstand the hardcore rider within you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
paulen beavercrochen
a Downhiller
from vancouver bc canada
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | severed dick | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | from a friend | | Strengths: | this bike is great i'm a mountain biker who just had a sex change and i meet so many hunky guys since i get this new bike.it rides great with or with out the seat.and no matter how many times i wipe out this bike just keeps going.the reason i got the sex change was because of my old bike .i got one of my nuts pinched in the frame and it just about pulled it right off.so i went to the vet and got nuderd. | | Weaknesses: | the only thing that i can say about this bike is that when i wipe out on it it is much heaver than my old bike and hurts more when it lands on me.i found that out last time i came to after wiping out.it had knocked off one of my falesies. | | Similar Products Used: | stinky me sorry i ment stinky d | | Bike Setup: | big big seat jr t pink flowers and tassels. and my bike has 2.6 tires funn seat jr t and funn stem. | | Bottom Line: | well i hope to see you on the trail so we can go riding and maybe we can go biking sometime to.and if you find a falesie on the trail i would love to get it back. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
paul beavel
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver bc canada
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | neds and cbc | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | bike sport pacific | | Strengths: | i'm a crazzy rider and i'm willing to try any thing on a bike and i mean anything . and if this bike can hold up to what i put it through than it can take anything.it is the plushest bike i tave ever had.this bike feels great on the small bumps and the big hucks.no more sore ass for me at least not from bike riding. | | Weaknesses: | the rear swing arm was a little weak. but i had them put the 2002 swing arm on and my bike is way stronger now. | | Similar Products Used: | the stinky d is the closest bike i have ever riden that would hold a candel to the giant. | | Bike Setup: | funn stem , funn seat , funn fat boy slims for bars ,jr t's seven inch,2.65 tires in front and 2.3 in back. | | Bottom Line: | i find that this bike has helpped me become a better rider.because i'm mental handi caped and riding a bike is something i never thought i would do because one leg is way shorter than the other. so we put a big block on one of the peddles and because of the plushness of this bike i can keep both my legs on the bike and i'm not getting my seat in the bum anymore. i love riding my bike and not have my bike ride my ass. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kendall Isenhour
a Downhiller
from Hickory, NC, USA
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Backside Brown | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Clark Bicycle | | Strengths: | Giant AThe C1 is a good all around bike for the price, It has lots of strong gussets, Plush 6 in of travel, and just a very comfortable Bike | | Weaknesses: | The Intergrated Headset, & not coming factory with dual crown fork like a Super T | | Similar Products Used: | 2001 Kona Stinky Delux | | Bike Setup: | XT Bottom Braket & cranks,Azonic Pedals, Super T, Answer Pro Tapers,Sram 7.0 shifters & derailor,Intence ODI grips,Hayes Hydrolics Purple, Cane Creek Head Set, Kona 1in rise stem, Ryno Lite Rims, Maxis mobster up front, Panaracer DH in Back, Axiom Dual seat post,& SDG Seat | | Bottom Line: | Good bike if ya like going down hilling but also like to get into the woods or even do some lite wight shore and freeriding. ONLY IF YOUR A LITE WEIGHT RIDER. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MIKE "SPANKY" LEAMON
a Weekend Warrior
from AMARILLO,TX
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | CEDRO CANYON | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | BIKE KORNER | | Strengths: | FRAKE, FRT SUSP. FORK, WHEEL SET AND BRAKES | | Weaknesses: | HAS FLEX ON BIG LEDGE DROPS VERY BIG. TOOK 5 MONTHS TO GET. | | Similar Products Used: | SANTA CRUZ | | Bike Setup: | STOCK EXCEPT CHANGED PEDALS TO SOME AZONIC A FRAMES | | Bottom Line: | THIS IS A VERY FUN DO ALL BIKE FROM CROSS COUNTRY TO DOWN HILL AND DUALS. COULD USE A BEEFIER REAR SHOCK BUT THIS IS THE LIGHTEST OF THE A.C. BIKES. OTHER THAN THAT THIS BIKE IS A BLAST TO RIDE. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe Martin
a Downhiller
from San Fran
Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The Swiveler | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Bob's | | Strengths: | Extremely nice!! great for drops and jumps!
nice fork and rear susp! | | Weaknesses: | maybe,maybe, maybe lx shifters... | | Similar Products Used: | Many duals | | Bike Setup: | only the best | | Bottom Line: | Very nice bike, extremely nice frame and suspension.!!
Llove the wheels and the brakes work like no other!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shep
a Cross Country Rider
from Hong Kong
Date Reviewed: May 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Any w/o stupid 'deer in headlights' hikers | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Brakes, Zokes(see weaknesses), Geometry, Looks very sexy much better than '02 model(bOring!), 6" travel, Ball fertilizer, fanny magnet. (Last two not 'actual' products but 'real' strengths) | | Weaknesses: | Rear hub worn out 3 months, Rapid-fire shifters makes adjustment of brake levers impossible for one finger use--who needs two fingers with hydraulics? Front end too light--pops up on steep climbs and easy to wash out--although could be tyres or just plain ole bad riding technique. XT cranks--just doesn't co-ordinate baby! Prodigy stem--needs a 4 bolt fastener to stop creaking.
No lockout on Zokes makes standing climbs a pogostick ride.
Medium frame with 500lb spring--who rides this, Eithiopians?
Pedals--plastic crap, Freehub protector--what am I, a baby? I know I'm picky but riding 4/5 times a week for 6 months you get real intimate. | | Similar Products Used: | Last ride: Jamis Dakar Team w/rigid forks--wild ride. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except 700lb spring and Azonic A-frames. | | Bottom Line: | Top titty bike, I know I listed more weaknesses than strengths but these are product-mix glitches which can be easily rectified. The price is well below any USA--but made in Taiwan anyway--bike. As with most complete bikes, manufacturers' cut corners to acheive attractive prices. Here you have a good chassis, suspension and brakes--the cornerstone of a good ride, all the rest is just accessories--expensive accessories though. Wicked for downhill, confidence boosting. This bike makes you want to get air all the time. If you're passionate about riding and don't want to break the bank--get one and don't upgrade the crappy stuff until it wears out. The first time I rode it I truly believed I couldn't fall off--until I did, but I was so stoked I didn't feel a thing. The problem with this bike is: you will fall off a lot because you will do crazy stuff.
Weight wimps need not apply!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kris
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane, QLD, Australia
Date Reviewed: March 31, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Stupidlyhappy | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1550.00 | | Purchased At: | Riders cyclery | | Strengths: | Parts list can't be topped for the money, stable at slow and fast speeds, lots of travel, jumps and drops well and can still climb, looks good - gets lots of looks from every one | | Weaknesses: | The rider, saddle | | Similar Products Used: | Giant AC-2 (simmilar but heavier), Craftworks FRM125(simmilar price but lower spec'd) | | Bike Setup: | Basically stock except Tioga Multi-control XL saddle and Lizardskin chainstay protector. Upgraded to 700lbs spring | | Bottom Line: | This is an update to a previous review. This bike gets better and better, I'm doing stuff I didn't believe possible - big log crossings, big gap jumps, incredibly steep and technical descents. I love this bike.
I weight 165lbs and have set the rear shock on:-
Changed 500lbs spring for 700lbs spring
6" travel
10 clicks out from min rebound
6 clicks out from min compression
1/2 full turn of spring preload from free length
The front is set on:-
1 full turn from min compression (still have not bottomed out from 4' drop)
5 clicks in from min rebound
this set up is perfect for me but might not suit any body else, if you are unsure how to set up you AC-1, try my set up for a week and then change to suit your self. They work better set up soft I have found.
The tyres I previously thought were crap now hook up perfectly with the above mentioned set up. I also run 18 psi in the front and 25psi in the rear, I haven't had a pinch flat or bent wheel yet and have done about 500klm of hard bush riding.
I also put a Tioga Multi-control XL saddle on. The saddle is about 2" longer than the original and looks funny at first but is a huge improvement to both comfort and control, I will never buy a different saddle, it is perfect for the AC-1.
The AC-1 is lighter than the AC-2 and is noticeable when riding, so if you have the choice go for the AC-1.
If you are considering an AC, buy one, you will not be dissapointed guarenteed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO
Date Reviewed: March 19, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$30.00 | | Strengths: | Great Frame but if you have developed play in the rear end I can help you out | | Weaknesses: | Often the rear linkages will develope play | | Bottom Line: | If your AC has developed play in the rear end and Giant will not warrentee the frame then look no further. I am selling Nylon washer kits with installation instructions which will stiffen up that rear end to that of the 02 model. E mail me if interested.
-Disclaimer-
This product is NOT a Giant product and will void all frame warrentee. However the modification requires no permanent changes to the frame and can be removed at anytime.
It is a great solution if you have the problem and want a quick cheap solution. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kris
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane QLD Aust.
Date Reviewed: March 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chocolate Budha Daisy Hill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1550.00 | | Purchased At: | Riders cyclery | | Strengths: | Value for money, ability to adjust to different moods, good fun to ride anywhere | | Weaknesses: | Seat, chain guard not compatible with XT crankset, noisy rear shock (Rockshox Prodelux) | | Similar Products Used: | Mainly BMX and an Avanti hardtail crosscountry MTB | | Bike Setup: | Totally stock so far, will change seat and tyres | | Bottom Line: | If you can get one, then do it, you will not regret it. This bike has taken my enthusiasm for MTBing to obsesive levels. I got the bike as a compromise - "ALL CONDITIONS" thinking it would cope in all cond. but it excells. If I were to race this bike XC, I would do better on this bike than my Hardtail XC bike and I can still rip it up at the BMX track (doubles, triples etc, no problems) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fatman
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney,Australia
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | the one I'm riding | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclesport Thornleigh(where else?) | | Strengths: | Great value.Heaps of variable travel.Comes with chainguide and bash ring. | | Weaknesses: | Seat and post,pedals,frame flex,handlebars,grips,tyres,formula hubs,a bike in this price range with a shim in the seat tube! | | Similar Products Used: | All kinds. | | Bike Setup: | Michelin DH tyres,Odi lock on grips,Hellraiser bars,8" rotors,Tioga sofa seat,syncros seatpost,XT hubs and 16 gauge spokes. | | Bottom Line: | I've broken a heap of parts on this bike but I still love it.I'm quite heavy at 100kgs but this machine keeps coming back for more.I've snapped the swingarm on mine but it was warrantied immediately by the Giant rep,the new models come with a parrallel swingarm as they are having problems with the older type.Unfortunately they supplied an arm for an AC AIR rather than an AC1.The flex is consistent with alot of bikes with so many links.It really comes into its element when going off drops or downhilling.Had I known how cheap it was going to be I would have saved a little extra and got the 2002 DH Comp instead.But at the same time the DH isn't as friendly going uphill as the AC1.For someone my size and who rides their rig to work every day you have to expect a few breakages,I'm lucky enough to ride through the bush to work.
It is an awesome bike and I love it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rich O'Connor
a Weekend Warrior
from MA
Date Reviewed: November 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | 'Nam, Lynn | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Landrys | | Strengths: | Adjustability, parts(mostly), | | Weaknesses: | flexy, petals, | | Similar Products Used: | hardtails mostly | | Bike Setup: | stock with 850LB spring | | Bottom Line: | Great all around bike, light enough to climb, strong enough to abuse. I go faster up short climbs, go much faster down hill, and jump and drop farther and further than ever. I even fraced it in a XC race and did as well as my buddies on bikes that weigh 10LBS less!
The rear end will flex lateraly on roots and rocks (grab the seat and push on the right petal and you can see the bottom bracket move left towards the tire) I only notice it on roots when the rear end slides out without the rest of the bike. Hasn't been a problem, but I wonder if my 220LB body is gonna cause problems with the linkage because of this.
The stock shimano petals have a plastic cage around them? That's crap, I already cracked one on a 3 foot drop and the loud snap scared me pretty good. The guys at Landrys(great place) replaced it and sayed they would upgrade them if it broke again.
Overall I'm happier then hell about the bike. Also as I said above the guys at Landrys are top notch.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aron
a Weekend Warrior
from Tenerife, Canary Islands
Date Reviewed: October 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | when riding, it's all good | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance in WA | | Strengths: | Feels like a Cadillac the way is sucks up the bumps. Adjustable rear travel a bunus. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy- and some questionable components (e.g. crappy Cane Creak headset, weak RS deluxe pro). Seat is ridiculously painful. | | Similar Products Used: | Jekll, Fuel, Rocky Mountain DH | | Bike Setup: | Basically stock except for Michelin DH tires and Selle Italia saddle. | | Bottom Line: | The bike felt the smoothest of the many I've test ridden- as far as eating bumps and drops. However, the CC headset feels awful and needs to be pitched. Also I blew the RS deluxe recently and had to send it to Madrid to be repaired (the nearest dist.) although they were quick to get it back to me (8 days). Can't say I'm impressed with the weakness of this shock- at least it looks cool.
She climbs pretty damned well for all the weight. I find you can get a lot more traction out of this bike than a hardtail when climbing over rocks, roots, and loose terrain. It also helps that I weight in at 150lbs. So for you XC biased riders who are on the heavier side, this might be an issue.
I question the durability of the WTB tires as I split the front one (six inch crack, lord knows how). They also grip poorly in the lose and sandy stuff. I find the Michelins' much better for the desert-like climate here although they are noticably heavier (hopefully stonger).
As I end up riding a lot of XC with friends, the 5" setting seems to be the right mix of travel for the climbs and downhill bumps. With the compression cranked up (the blue knob) the bobbyness in the rear can be dialed out and she almost feels like a hardtail. I've lost my confidence in the RS though and am looking for something more durable.
As far as the flex in the frame goes: I don't know what those mag guys were smokin'! I've yet to experience this.
The Z-1 on the other hand feels flexy as hell...and after numerous dismountings, I'll be curious to see how long those screws for the axle retainer last before they stip their mounts. Anyone know about a quick release system for this fork?
In general I'd say for the price you get a sh@t-load of bike. Thus 5 turds for value.
I hope Giant will rethink the headset, RS, and seat for next time- hence, 4 turds.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: October 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Upper Oilcan | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Strengths: | Efficiant design, suspension works well. Travel to weigh ratio is excellent, infact it is the best available. | | Weaknesses: | Warranty committment from manufacture. WARRNING don't import bike frames and expect the manufacture to replace or accept deductables for broken suspention components. They will NOT! | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized, Sana Cruz, Cannondale | | Bike Setup: | The way I like it | | Bottom Line: | I purchased this frame from a bike shop in California. Brought it home with me and built a great ride. This bike is still a great ride. I just replaced the lower link/chainstay and the local shop would not warranty it. They said it is rider abuse and to read the warranty. Well I did and they have the right to take their stance. So to all you people out their whom come here for peer related consumer advice I recommend you read the following. This is a direct quote from Giants documents*.
"All aluminum and carbon fiber frames and rigid forks as well as suspension frames are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of five years from the date of purchase for the original owner. All other original components and all Giant-brand repair parts, replacement parts and accessories are warranted to be free from defects in material or workmanship for a period of one year from the original date of purchase."
"Unless covered by the free 60-day repair labor period, you will be responsible for labor costs associated with warranty replacements. "
"The above warranty, or any implied warranty, does not cover normal wear and tear, and all warranties are void if the bicycle is used for other than normal activities, including, but not limited to, the failure to follow the owner’s manual; using the bicycle for commercial activities or in competitive events, including bicycle racing, bicycle motocross racing, stunt riding, ramp jumping or similar activities, and training for such activities or events."
I guess their are a few stunts on upper oilcan where I ride.
The stunts are the tammest stunts on the North Shore. The last word? Buy a Kona STINKY it is made to take a bigger pounding then this bike. The DELUX STINKY is around the same price range. I would have bought the stinky but patients are not one of my best virtues
*to view this document completly
http://www.giantbicycles.com/us/055.000.000.asp#2body | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Denva from OZ
a Cross Country Rider
from VIC, Australia
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2550.00 | | Strengths: | Great allround bike. This bike has increased my confidence to do just about anything. I was very suprised at how well this thing climbs. Last weekend i used it for my first dual race and i came 6th. It was 80% the bike. Handleing is excellent and the bike itself is pretty tough. | | Weaknesses: | Catalouge spec is different from product spec. Eg XT crank and rear mech instead of RF North Shore crank and XTR rear mech. Also my rear spring was rubbing the inside shock when riding. I took it to the dealer and they said it was a bad batch and replaced straight away. they also serviced my fork for the inconvience. Great guys down at Steve Cramer Products! Tires are alright but you can't have everything! | | Similar Products Used: | Dual Slalom Bikes:-Santa Cruz Heckler, Intense Tazer, Planet X bomber and jack flash, Norco 250cc, DMR trailstar, Azonic DS1 etc | | Bike Setup: | Don't like marzocchi so got a manitou X-vert super(waiting for the black elite in bike colour), Azonic hot seat, cut down ritchey seat post for racing otherwise RF stock post, Easton Scandium Bars, ONYX front hub, DT COMp spokes, IRC KujoK fnt and hutchy jumbo rear (almost perfect race wet combination). | | Bottom Line: | I will use this bike for mostly dual races. I love racing and nice equipment. So this was the bike. I wasn't all the crazy about the giant sticker, but so what i can spend the extra money on upgrades.
If you got the money there is nothing better in that range and it not only looks the part but rides and handles excellent too which not many bikes do.
Unreal banana peel! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
schwinnson
a Downhiller
from turkey point, ontario
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | da downhill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | used | | Strengths: | Just about everything, from the adjustable travel to the frame, disks are a plus, just bout everything | | Weaknesses: | XT cranks creak more than your mom
Seat is terrible
chainguide is a good idea but doesnt work up to my standards | | Similar Products Used: | 1999 schwinn mesa gsx | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for xt fr. and r.derailler | | Bottom Line: | this bike is awesome, its good for a lightweigh rider like me (105pounds) and is capable of Dh racing plus a little freeriding and some xc. as for the rear end flex, there is none, those mag editors must have hit the crackpot a little hard. I plan on swapping the cranks with some raceface north shore xs cranks soon because im not in favor of the xt, they can go on my xc bike, but overall its a sweet bike, its held up to many bumps and bruses and hard landings and is still goin strong
10flamming poop stains and 2 thumbs up to giant | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Shearer
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: October 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Foreplay | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Fresh Air Experience | | Strengths: | Specs & Adjustability | | Weaknesses: | Dual Crown voids warranty | | Bike Setup: | Almost Stock | | Bottom Line: | This is an update to my earlier review. I should have replaced the 600# spring with an 800# spring because my ass blew the rear shock. Rock Shox is experiencing problems here in Canada but I hope to have my old shock back soon. In the meanwhile, I bought a Stratos Helix Expert. Liking it so far.
I plan to look for a Super T despite the warranty situation. All in all, an amazing bike. An amazing deal. I can't wait to live up to the bikes potential. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Manila
Date Reviewed: September 29, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Dual Purpose ride | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost adapter squeaks. Warranty stinks. Installing dual-crown fork voids the warranty! | | Bottom Line: | I think everyone enjoys the bike here but there's somebody also here does'nt agree on it.
1. Is there a "freeriding competition"?
2. I also don't think XC and DH specific bikes won't perform on this event either. Isnt it?
3. If you're into racing, go specific! and be a loser if you're beaten by rider with an AC.
If the bike seems to do well on your style, it is definitely yours.
Enjoy the ride... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Downhiller
from Beverly
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Sunday river- pro DH course | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3300.00 | | Purchased At: | Landrys | | Strengths: | Well lets just say four foot drops dont feel like anything now. And it is sweet for DH racing. Just drop the seat and max out the travel and your ready/ | | Weaknesses: | I have had so many problems but they've all been fixed accept for one. THE bb fell off twice, the disk breaks fell off till I lock tighted them on. My rear shock BENT something I have never done before becuse RS stinks. Im getting an avalanche though | | Similar Products Used: | Intense M1. Kona stinky, stinky 5, stinky dee-lux, disco monkey....list goes on | | Bike Setup: | 2001 Rock Shox Boxxer. 8" rotors front and back grimca, odi lock on grips, i forget but I got sick 150$ platforms, all XTR, MRP world cup 2 chainguide, RACEface seat post,I love the rock shox boxxer, get one | | Bottom Line: | Its a sweet and cheep bike, mine cost more becaus I added a rock shox boxxer for 1200, So the bike at first cost me 2300, and its cheep for the travel, I might sell my AC 1 frame because Im gettng the new model or te santacruz V10 | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Whitney
a Downhiller
from Ipswich, Mass, USA
Date Reviewed: September 9, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Stoney Squa, Mount Norquay Alberta Canada | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Alpine Sports in Canmore Alberta | | Strengths: | long and short travel | | Weaknesses: | does not come with a triple crown
| | Bottom Line: | This bike is really great. It takes anything, which really blames the rider for any mishaps. I love it, and the Marzochi Z.1 QR20 is great, and really stong. The travel is so smooth. The lower travel settings are great for an almost cross-country style ride. It has fantastic geometry which works well on the BC ladders. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jesse lorenz
a Weekend Warrior
from collingswood, nj usa
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | wisahickon park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | erlton bike shop | | Strengths: | Price, quality, fun to ride, confidence booster. great front shock, great rear shock, good spec. The brakes,wheels everything. | | Weaknesses: | 6 foot wide weak bar, god awful seat, noisy crank bottom bracket. | | Similar Products Used: | too many | | Bike Setup: | stock- to cheap to get a new seat.I'll buy a new one when i destroy the old one. | | Bottom Line: | THIS BIKE ROCKS. those clowns at the mag are idiots. This bike gives you so much confidence, i have desended too fast and gotten into trouble because of it. The change of spec sucked but the thing wouldn't shift, AND having to wait for them to get the bugs out of the wheel problem. I was one of the first people to get one of these things. The geometry is great this bike climbs like a champ and screams down the hills with incredible control. Sealed bearings in the pivots were a plus. The spec is great. The bike is a steal for what you get with it. What else to say about it, oh the bike kicks. What a blast, and i tell the rep all the time best bike i ever bought. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben S
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakland, CA
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | BigTrees | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | MTBR (used frame) | | Strengths: | Burly build, plush and active, adjustability, sweet geometry | | Weaknesses: | A tad heavy for long-distance XC, pedal induced bobbing (see below) | | Similar Products Used: | Bontrager HT, Klein Mantra | | Bike Setup: | Z1CR 5", Avid discs w/ XT & Rhino Lites | | Bottom Line: | This bike handles really well on rough downhills. The suspension is awesome and is quite tunable. Also the slack seat angle is nice for stretching out when you raise the saddle. I haven't had any problems with the rear shock so far and the early-production pivot problem had already been taken care of when I bought it. I don't do big drops or jumps (over 4-5') but I definately do my share of bashing on the trails and I don't notice any flex. So far I've been riding mostly in the 4.5 and 5.1" settings which are super plush. 6" sucks up too much pedaling for me. For climbs I generally crank down the compression knob about 3/4 of the way.... the bike doesn't bounce AT ALL when you do this but it still softens the bigger bumps. It is super easy to reach down and tune the compression while riding. Obviously I could climb faster on my hard tail or Mantra, but I have also cleaned technical climbs on the Giant that I lost traction on before. This is a great all-around bike. If you are an XC racer or big hucker then look elsewhere. I'm 5'11 and the large fits perfect with an 80mm stem. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lou Marcoccio
a Weekend Warrior
from Westbobo, MA USA
Date Reviewed: August 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Rutland State Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2195.00 | | Purchased At: | ATA Cycle | | Strengths: | Versatile, adjustable, extra smooth feel, riding it puts a huge smile on your face downhill or otherwise, comes stock with excellent components, good for novice through expert, and you get a great deal of bike for the money. | | Weaknesses: | Slight weaknesses: Cable routing, little heavy for long gradual uphill races, seat, grips. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FRS, Trek Fuel, Giant XTC AC2, Intense M1. | | Bike Setup: | Nearly all stock, added: Tioga DH Seat, Redline Aluminum Platform Pedals, 550# rear shock spring (came with 500#),
Odi Lock On Ruffian Grips. | | Bottom Line: | It appears to provide the best race-bred quality and brand name components for the money. I'm an older novice weekend XC and DH rider. I used to be a pretty good Motorcross Dirtbike and motorcycle road rider for many years, and have been an MTB road and flat trail rider for years. So for me this bike is working out exceptionally well. I find that you can jump logs, stairs, rocks, etc. with ease. I haven't done beyond 3-4' jumps yet, but this bike gives you a great sense of security that drives you to try it. When you do, it delivers smoothly. I'm about 180# and 5' 10". The slightly heavier spring really improved the feel for me. I went with a size Medium (5'10" tall with 30.5 inseam), since I probably will not do RAD extreme riding and jumping. I tried the SMALL too, but the Medium felt smoother and easier to uphill too, even though it's a little heavy for uphill. I found that it does exceptionally well steep uphills in shorter bursts.
If you can still find one, but it. You will not be sorry. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rob reyes
a Weekend Warrior
from richmond, Cali, usa
Date Reviewed: August 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | downieville | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Pacific Bikes | | Strengths: | Value! Dope parts, Dope frame, Dope ride! | | Weaknesses: | Seat | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR | | Bike Setup: | Stock except I replaced the shamano clipless for Free Agent platforms, azonic seat, THE front fender, 8in front rotor, and lizard skins. | | Bottom Line: | That magazine review about this bike is just pure bs. This is the funnest bike I've ever had and that is the bottom line! It can climb and jump but the real fun is how the bike handles in the technicals and decends. It's heavy but the fun factor of this bike far out weighs that. Giant really did a great job with spec'ing the AC-1 but I think they could've givin us a better seat. Other then that, I have to take my hat off to Giant. Thank you for making my summer so fun! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn Mullins
a Downhiller
from Va, live in England
Date Reviewed: August 15, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Strengths: | Stiffness, downhill ability, adjustable travel, easy to tune
just about everything | | Weaknesses: | none found yet | | Similar Products Used: | Straight six, I-drive | | Bike Setup: | Z1 MCR QR20, Azonic cockpit, Race Face cranks, full XT w/XTR rear derailleur | | Bottom Line: | This bike is an awesome value whether you get the complete bike or just the frame as I did. I prefer the MCR over the DropOff, better damping and adjustability. The bike sucks up everything you can give it, from six foot drops to all out dual racing with loads of jumps. For the money you really can't find a better bike. If you can find one get it! | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Shearer
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Foreplay | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Fresh Air Experience | | Strengths: | Components
Travel Adjustability
Value | | Weaknesses: | Saddle | | Similar Products Used: | Y33, Enduro Pro, RM6 | | Bike Setup: | Stock Except: replaced LX with XT, pedals 646, seat | | Bottom Line: | Because of the weight I have not been able to make some of the long climbs as easily. But I've been able to make the shorter, steeper more technical climbs that I couldn't with my Trek.
I now go down every trail easily that I couldn't or wouldn't before.
Now I plan to start looking for bigger dropoffs and jumps. This may necessitate a heavier rear spring.
Considering the components on this beast, the value is unbeatable. I highly recommend this bike to anyone wishing to up the ability of either themselves or their bike. I'd say this bike doubled my confidence levels. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
michel pinto
a Weekend Warrior
from macae
Date Reviewed: July 27, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | arreia a mochila ( aldeia velha) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | free ride | | Strengths: | hayes disc , rear suspension , ajustability , components | | Weaknesses: | little bit rear end , seat post | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | z1 mcr QR20 , monkey lite , easton CT2 seat post , xtr pods and cassete | | Bottom Line: | it's loves roots and rocks , 4,5 travel is better climber than my old sc heckler | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
FATMAN
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney Australia
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Berowra,Deans,Red Hill. | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Thornleigh Cyclesport.Where else? | | Strengths: | Burly frame and wheels.Awesome adjustability,turn the bike from a free rider to a XC bike with a few turns of your 6mm.The exta components you get ie;bash ring and chain guide.Sealed bearings at all pivots.Handles really well on technical singletrack aswell as downhill.Drop offs get eaten up by the plush travel. | | Weaknesses: | Seat and seatpost,tyres,flexy rear end.The thing does weigh a bit but not heavy for a bike with 6" of travel.Makes some very strange noises.cable routing needs attention.Bugger all to worry about but you cant say it's perfect. | | Similar Products Used: | GT's,Crack'n'fail,Specialized,Mongoose,Klein | | Bike Setup: | Pretty much stock except Odi lock on grips and Thomson post and Tioga sofa.Ditched big ring in favour of the bash ring.
Maxxis High rollers and better compound brake pads. | | Bottom Line: | I love this machine,there are no real faults that I can find that would turn anyone off buying the sickest bike for the dollars.You do have to tweak it a bit to get it fully dialled but thankfully the guru at the shop had it set up perfect from the get go.
This is THE bike for performance at a reasonable cost.You get an awesome,well stocked machine that beats more expensive bikes hands down,it does everything it was designed to do and then some.This bike was not the one I set out to buy but it was the only one that a had what I wanted.This bike could easily have a more expensive name painted on the frame.If the name is the only thing holding you back then get a clue.This is one sick puppy.BUY IT! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve
a Weekend Warrior
from san diego, ca
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | tony's | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | shop | | Strengths: | Good value, but it is spec'd cheap. the rear shock is being rebuilt, for the second time. Giant puts wire beaded tires, and a shimed seatpost on a 2000+ bike? the quality of the frame doesnt look that great either. i plan on selling mine for a rm6 or a bullit. its a good value, if you dont ride to hard. | | Weaknesses: | made in taiwan, machine built, little attention to detail | | Similar Products Used: | bullit, gt sts dh, chameleon | | Bike Setup: | stock, except it has a jr t and sram drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | Good value, but it is spec'd cheap. the rear shock is being rebuilt, for the second time. Giant puts wire beaded tires, and a shimed seatpost on a 2000+ bike? the quality of the frame doesnt look that great either. i plan on selling mine for a rm6 or a bullit. its a good value, if you dont ride to hard. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marko
a
from Evergreen, Colorado
Date Reviewed: July 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Apex near Golden, CO | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Lakewood Cyclery | | Strengths: | This ride is da bomb! Everything is solid - yet plush. Great parts mix and value for the $. No problems or breaks after 3 months of hard riding. | | Weaknesses: | Changed the seat and grips - I agree with the other reveiws about the poor hook-up on the stock tires. Mine are about gone, so time to replace with some stickier rubber. | | Similar Products Used: | Tried all top end GT, Specialized, Kona and an Intense Uzzi SL. Bought the Giant. | | Bike Setup: | All stock except for seat and grips - it rocks! | | Bottom Line: | Watch every big bike manufacturer try to mimmic this bike in their 2002 year product offering. This bike does everything, and will hold-up better than almost anything. I am 190lbs and can't detect ANY noticable frame flex (and I did with the GT and Specialized). Great trail bike, and a blast in the resorts - more comfy that the chair ride up! If you are looking for a bike that is just plain FUN, FUN, FUN, buy it - if you can still find one! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik
a
from Reno, NV
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Plush suspension front and rear.Giant really did their homework. | | Weaknesses: | Stupid motoraptor tires don't hook up at all. get Intense DH tires.
Also can't mount a double clamp fork or it voids frame warranty. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for saddle and tires | | Bottom Line: | Great all around bike. to climb well set travel at 4.5" and turn the compression all the way and at the top switch travel to 6"(it takes 30 seconds to chang travel) sweet on drop offs and DH runs. if you can find one now get it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas
a Weekend Warrior
from Florida
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | All of them [XC,DH,FR,UA] | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Champion Cycle, JAX BCH, FL | | Strengths: | Tough yet responsive frame and componentry; Great frame design (geometry mathematically splits XC and DH setups); Awesome suspension front & rear (great double-hung, yoke-offset design, good pre-load, compression and rebound dampening, tuning & adjustiblity); Good mix LX/XT/XTR drive train; Would have preferred the original spec RaceFace NorthShore crankset but I have no complaints about the Shimano XT Splined HollowTech; Exceptional brake modulation control and incredible stopping power. | | Weaknesses: | Stock seat had to go in favor of a more anatomically-friendly split gel saddle; Also, replaced the stock tires (WTB MotoRaptor 2.4 were too shallow a knob pattern, too round a tread profile, & too light duty) with Nokian Gazzoloddi 2.6's with Intense DH 2.7 tubes; Some XC'ers will find 35-lbs a bit heavy but it builds heart, lungs, legs, and character; Just get better and stronger. | | Similar Products Used: | Varying classes of hard-tail and full suspension: Cdale Super-V 500/900, Cdale Jekyll 700, Marin B-17, GT I-Drive, Trek 7000, Raleigh M800 & M8000. | | Bike Setup: | Model is XTC AC-1 large 19-inch; Rider is 5'11" & 160 lbs.
All stock, except for seat and tire changes as noted; Removed large chain-ring and installed bash-guard (great for clearance); Cut down handlebars (HellBent Trucker DH) to 24 inches to balance needs of tight single track with DH control; Suspension set to five (5) inches front and rear; Fork & Shock preload, compression and rebound dampening are run at various combinations of 20%-50% depending on terrain and conditions; Run the Gazzo's at 24-36 psi depending on terrain & conditions; | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome and worth the money. The Giant guys really did their computer-aided engineering homework. As noted earlier, the geometry gives you the best of the XC and DH worlds without having to endure the pitfalls of one while riding the other.
What can one say about the Marzocchi Z1 DropOff QR20 and the Hayes Hydraulic Disk Brakes, they are best in class; (some say I should have up-speced the disks to 8-inch instead of older 6-inch, but getting thrown off is the same whether by 6 or 8-inch disks!) A note of feedback on the observation that the suspension "tightens" under hard simultaneous front & rear braking: --most full-suspension bikes behave this way! Try alternately pulse-modulating the front and rear brakes according to conditions.
On tight switch-back single-track, it took some time to adapt from my XC bike to the AC-1's cornering characteristics given its wheelbase, headtube angle and fork rake. The Nokian Gazzo's made a huge tracking, cornering and climbing difference (The WTB MR's lose bite and slide all over the place).
This bike is truly confidence inspiring. I am a significantly improved rider after just three months on the Giant compared to a year on my last hard-tail (which I still love and still use for road rides). I ride all-conditions: sand, mud, wet clay, dry hard pack, rock, roots, uphill, downhill, stairs, etc. I can do more difficult trusses, catwalks, jumps, STEEP descents, and climbs than I would have previously considered possible given my skill level and old bike's capabilities. Wow, can this bike descend...and climb. Just take any line--this bike will handle it and carry you through!...
A note on climbing: This bike's climbing performance is no less than that of any hard-tail I've ridden. In fact, for ascents over treacherous terrain, I find its capabilities superior to my XC HT. I can climb anything my XC HT buddies can and some things they cannot. Recent designs have rendered obsolete the notion that full-suspension bikes cannot climb. Good climbing performance is determined by a combination of four major factors (in no order of importance): (1) bike setup & geometry, including wheelbase and stem angle & offset; Clipless pedals are a major plus because use of your up-stroke leg substantially increases torque while reducing suspension bob (power efficiency) (2) correct gear-ratio --too high, you cannot turn the crank, --too low you lose momentum (or control) due to over-crank or you break traction or "torque" the bike from under you; You must be in the gear in which your legs can barely crank you up & over the hill; (3) tires--the rear tire must bite and hold; (4) rider technique--proper use and variance of riding position and body english. For you guys who can't climb, there's help for you in this bike.
A big five flamin' turds.
And, by the way, I do NOT work for Giant! :)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim Miller
a Cross Country Rider
from Roseville, Ohio
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything near Brevard, NC | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Doctor in Heath, Ohio | | Strengths: | Very strong frame, great climber(those magazine editors don't know what they're talking about), and great trail/free-ride bike. | | Weaknesses: | They need one size bigger. I'm 6'3" and I dwarf the large frame, but it feels ok. | | Similar Products Used: | Iron Horse G-Spot, Kona Stinky, Haro ex | | Bike Setup: | I run the rear in the 5" setting with a 900# spring (I'm two bills), with a 2001 Manitou Exvert DC and Hayes hydraulic 6" on the front, and 8" on the rear. Bike weighs in at around 32#'s. Could be lighter if I spent big bucks for the highest end components, but durability is more important. | | Bottom Line: | Big riders like myself live for the downhills, but this bike is pretty easy on you on the climbs. I had a rocker arm go bad (bearing came loose in the housing), but giant had a new set at my shop in less than a week. I've given up on being a weight weenie cross country rider, but I'm not going hard-core DH either. This is the perfect setup for me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill V.
a Downhiller
from Toms River. NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | plattekille, waywayanda, and steep tech drops | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2150.00 | | Purchased At: | PADI's PEDAL POWER in Toms River, NJ | | Strengths: | Where do i begin... i love the bike, i have NO complaints. i moved up from an XCR 1500 to this, and since i sold the GT to my friend, when i get on it, it sounds/feels creeky, and jittery. but think about it, XT/XTR setup (i'd rather the orig. race face, but...) Marzocchi Z1 dropoff, rockshox pro deluxe, hayes hydro, cane creek headset... the list goes on and on. | | Weaknesses: | the seat is about it... and the frint disc loosend on me 1 (one) time, after some chopped uo trails, but my guess is that they weren't tightened down enough originally, but now... no problems. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized big hit, FSR comp, GT idrive, straight6, and the stinkee dee lux | | Bike Setup: | basically stock except for the seat (tioga DH) and tioga 2.7 tires, gonna change the forks when the get jittery to a boxxer (maybe). | | Bottom Line: | i think it you want a bike that can handle just about everything u throw at it, and correct the things that u didn't wanna bring to the table, this is the bike. some1 else mentioned to think of the bike as a freeriding machine that can go uphill, is the best explanation, i've ridden this bike up a 12 and a 14 set of stairs, dropped off 6-7' ledges and it still ride quiet and smooth... and i also saw some1 that said "if they could give it ten chili's they would", well i agree 100%
this is giants best bike. (this is also my 1st giant) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KEVIN VAN LOON
a
from SALT LAKE, UTAH, USA
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | CREST | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | BICYCLE CENTER | | Strengths: | Good versitility, great for xc and dh days. Really good suspension both front and rear. Adjustability on rear allows for a wide varity of riding styles. | | Weaknesses: | a little heavy for the xc enthusist | | Similar Products Used: | 2000 Specialized Enduro Expert (it sucked big balls) | | Bike Setup: | XTR rear der. XT front der. Lx shifters | | Bottom Line: | A good bike for the true freerider. Allows for a varity of riders and levels. It is not just a big hit bike but a good cx rider aswell. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a Racer
from Canada
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | my back yard | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Strengths: | great frame takes the big hits, along with the small. Heavy duty DH frame, that can be cranked XC. | | Weaknesses: | Creaky rear end after big drops! | | Similar Products Used: | Sana Crus Tazmon, Specialized FJ FSR, Crack and fail. | | Bike Setup: | Vulta DH Wheel set. Grimeca sys8. Azonic shorty steam. RF Prodigy seat post. Gozz JR 2.7 front WTB Moto Raptor rear. Gore ride on cables. Shimano XT hollow tech splined. XT drive train(chain cog shifter). XTR der. 2001 Marzoochi JR T | | Bottom Line: | I run the Grimmeca Sys8 with a 200mm rotor on the front and a 160 on the rear. The only thing that slows this frame down is the 6 pound fork bolted to the front of it. Might pup a very light XC fork so I can have an awsome XC bike. But keep the JR T for days when ya wana fly. This is the best bike I have ever had. It's versitile! It lives up to its claims as an AC
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a Downhiller
from Lowell, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods and the streets of Boston | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Naults -- the best place on the planet | | Strengths: | Very plush, very fast, and it likes to drop-off things. Component selection is great -- just a couple changes here and there (see setup.) Fork and shock are perfectly balanced. | | Weaknesses: | Integrated Headset forze up in two rides. Swithced to a different top cap an bearing set and it has been buttery smooth since. The orginal derailure hanger was kinda soft. Got a new one that is stiff as the frame itsself. Otherwise, no other weaknesses what-so-ever. | | Similar Products Used: | RM6, PipeLine, Straight 6. | | Bike Setup: | Basically stock except for:
- Handlebars: Azonic Pyramid D.W. Risers (2 inch rise/28" width)
-Stem: Azonic Shorty (50mm)
-Grips: ODI Lock-On Ruffians
-Pedals: Odyssey Twisted Pro Flats | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome. No matter what situation I put it in, it handles it. I cannot say enough as to how much I like this bike. Put it this way...since I have owned it (just about 3 months now,) there have only been about 4 or 5 days that I have not ridden it. Props to Giant for a sweet freeride machine. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joe Seery
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | cycles etc | | Strengths: | strong, fast, plush, FUN | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | super8, bullit | | Bike Setup: | custom build from frame up - psylo sl, monkeylite bar,thomson post&stem, all xt(f&r der,cassette, hubs, shifters) mavic D521 rims 14g DT spokes, magura julie disc, intense comp50sr 2.35" tires,race face northshore xs cranks isis BB, pedals shimano 545 | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike, climbs well and desends great and it's stiff. some clowns from a mtb rag say different, they know nothing. any freerider would really dig this bike. XC people need not apply. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Claude Capro
a Downhiller
from Montral, Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | the Bing-Bang @ Bromont | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | West Island Sports | | Strengths: | Great Overall, great components, nice feeling on the rear shock, can take some big hits, front fork rocks... | | Weaknesses: | Big drops, front fork bottoms out, needs firmer springs for heavy guys... | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Super 8, FSR DH and Devinci Magma | | Bike Setup: | upgrade on pedals, and seat... | | Bottom Line: | But it, it rocks, value wise an awesome deal, and it can really climb too for a free-ride. If you're out to do downhill and some X-Country and expect to perform well in both , this my friends is as close as it gets... Good luck! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
david M
a Downhiller
from Beverly,ma,USA
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The rock trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2399.00 | | Purchased At: | Landrys(best store) | | Strengths: | Man you sit on the seat go over a crack in the road and you don't feel a thing. Go off a three foot drop. Feel a little. 7 foot drop. Feels comfy. 14 foot: you fell it. It is awsome 6" rear rocks, put a boxxer up front, it rox too. Comonents are great. just the stem screws strip. | | Weaknesses: | Hmm let me thing. NONE | | Similar Products Used: | Kona stinky deluxe,primo, and stinky. AC2. Specialized Palmer edition. RM slayer, RM6 | | Bike Setup: | Rock shox boxxer 2001, xtr shifers. hayes breaks and levers. RF north shore cranks, RF prodigy seat post. Sunn doublewide rims. ALL XTR stuff, XTR drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | Buy this bike. It is very good. if the price is a lil steep buy the XTC AC AIR, if it's a 500 dollar to steep. Buy the AC1. Dose drops so greatly.(dont mind my spelling, i like to abreviate.) Just buy it!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Salem, CT USA
Date Reviewed: June 10, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Hartmans Park 'Red' trail, Trails in Jim Thorpe, PA. | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Saybrook Cycles | | Strengths: | Very Strong Components.
| | Weaknesses: | Sitting on the seat is like having a 2x4 strapped to the bike. Also the "Large" frame is not very large. | | Similar Products Used: | Specializer FSR | | Bike Setup: | Stock with 800# rear spring, Specialized Comp seat and XY seatpost. | | Bottom Line: | I am very happy with my current set-up. The bike is very reliable, but I was disappointed when RaceFace cranks were swapped for XT components.
Definetely lose the seat! Also, if you're 6' 3" or over and have long legs you will need a longer seatpost. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from New York
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Appalacian Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2399.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | AC adjustable suspension rocks, race-face components are friggin' awesome, hayes hydos are the best, need I say more? | | Weaknesses: | umm...i'm thinking... | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized enduro pro, spec bighit comp, spec p.3 disc--none match the AC1 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for '01 boxxers. | | Bottom Line: | Possibly the best bike in the world for the price, buy it now if u have the money! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from Novato, CA USA
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Big Trees | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Strengths: | Great Geometry, strong frame, great fork, Hayes Disks, good component set-up | | Weaknesses: | Seat (painful) | | Similar Products Used: | GT LTS, Specialized FSR | | Bike Setup: | bone stock | | Bottom Line: | As everyone else says, there is no better choice for the money. This bike is exceptional except for the seat (will swap out sometime soon).
Giant has put together one of the best bikes available at this price (and it beats most overpriced bikes anyways).
Excellent on downhills & in rough drops & the like. It is heavy, but you would not buy this bike if you cared about being the first to the top. It is worth the extra weight so that the bike tracks well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DAN
a Downhiller
from SAN Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Just about everything! The little time that I have been on this bike, I have beet the living hell out of it and it has stayed together. I like the RapidRise XTR rear DR and the XT shifters are nice. The fork is the strogest I have seen on a bike like this. FRAME | | Weaknesses: | The only Complants that I have are about the LX Casset, Front DR and they should have a contract with Fox, because there shocks are a lot better than Rock Shox. FRAME | | Similar Products Used: | A bunch! | | Bike Setup: | I Changed the shock to a Fox and both Front DR and casset to XTR. | | Bottom Line: | I work in a bike shop and i work with a lot of bikes; I normaly do not like Giant's bikes, but this one really got me hooked. I have tried many different bikes and there is nothing like the Giant in this price range. Don't get me wrong there are better bikes, but they are also a lot more money, say about 4 grand compared to 2 grand, big diffence. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Glenn Davis
a Downhiller
from Derry NH
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods, Salem Town Forrest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycles Etc. Salem NH | | Strengths: | Overall stock parts and good geometry. | | Weaknesses: | New Spec of XT cranks. I cried and got the original spec of the Race Face Northshore Crankset. I haven't broken anything yet so no real complaints. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Pretty stock, exept for the Northshore cranks and Tioga DH tires. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is sick. Staight up! I have been working my way up on the height of my drops and it takes on 7 footers without a hitch. I compaired a lot of freeride bikes and went with this one because of the local dealer and all the high end products on the stock bike. I still ride a little cross country and I can do everything on this that I can do on my 22lb Zaskar. It climbs like a champ for a 32lb bike. I just wish the AC was as light as the zaskar on the hills....
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KEVIN
a Weekend Warrior
from victoria,bc, canada
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | FORT ST CYCLE | | Strengths: | Value
Adjustability
Parts spec
Surprising climbing | | Weaknesses: | Der. Hanger broken a couple of times in odd circumstances. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Idrive, VPS, Bullit | | Bike Setup: | Nearly stock, DK Iron Cross pedals, Odi lock on grips | | Bottom Line: | Great bike, climbs sooo much better than i expected, even in the 6inch travel setting, nearly perfect parts spec, great fun to ride. Great freeride bike
--Can not accept a triple crown fork
--If you want a 15 foot drop bike this is not it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
NEXT
a Weekend Warrior
from Mn
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Price and value. I love the color. | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost shim, Koski seat is a little harsh. | | Similar Products Used: | GT XCR | | Bike Setup: | RaceFace XY seatpost and RF 1" riser bars, Azonic grips, Cateye AT100. Looking for a better seat... | | Bottom Line: | This is an awesome bike for the money. I use it for everything. Drops, technical downhill, some XC. This bike is a little heavy for XC, but it still does great. Think of it as a freeride bike that you can ride uphill. This is the most fun that I've ever had on a bike. It is truly an "All Conditions" bike. The only issues that I really have with the bike were a few personal setup items. Like the Titec bars, and the RF Prodigy seatpost. I didn't like having a shim, so I got a RF XY seatpost. I also through on a cyclocomputer because I'm a freak about numbers. I HAVE to know distance. It's just my thing, I guess. For the bike, I paid $2,000 plus tax, out the door. How could I go wrong? The tires seem to work good, the brakes are AWESOME, the fork is a Marzocchi Z1. Need I say more? The Rock Shox Pro Deluxe shock is great. The adjustability is fantastic. You can reach down, turn the compression clicker all the way in, and it works almost like a lock out. If I could this bike 10 flaming chilis, I would. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve P
a Downhiller
from Layton, UT
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Downhill anywhere | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Strengths: | Sweet geometry, when I put on a new front fork. Life time warrenty so smooth. tough frame, will take a hit and keep going. Rear shock is awesome, so adjustable, so plush...
turns tight corners fast, so far its the bomb.... I took the bike full on downhillen, and the bike took everything I threw at it. Rocks, drops, trees.... you name it this bike can take it....... | | Weaknesses: | Crappy front shock, swapped it out with the JR T 6" travel. So much smoother.. swapped out pedals too, got shimano-clipless platforms.... really other than the front shock the bike rocks....... | | Similar Products Used: | specialized fsr comp..4" travel | | Bike Setup: | pretty stock except for JR-T fork, shimano clipless platforms...downhill shorty stem, sun ringle uncle jessie riser bar. | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line the bike is tough as nails, you do have to swap out some parts, but that is usual in finding what is comfortable for you. Geometry is sweet. stock 2.4" tires are a plus. Nice freeriding/downhill bike. If you are looking for a cross country bike, don't look at this one..
This bike is made, heavy and sturdy to take major hits..
not too cruise up hills....... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Saucy
a Cross Country Rider
from Webster, NY USA
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | All of them | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Geneva Bicycle Center | | Strengths: | Sweet ride, very strong frame (gussets everywhere), Hayes brakes, awesome component spec. | | Weaknesses: | Seat sucks (replaced it), would have liked to have the RaceFace cranks instead of XT. | | Similar Products Used: | K2, Kona, Cannondale, Rocky Mountain, Trek, etc. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except I put on some Panaracer Fire DH pro 2.3 tires, Time pedals, ODI lock-on grips, and a Selle Italia Flite seat. | | Bottom Line: | I hope I can say this without sounding like a Giant advertisement, because before the AC1 I was not a big fan of their bikes. But this bike ROCKS.
The head angle makes it awesome for super steep drops, the fork and rear suspension soak up everything. Stuff that was downright treacherous on my K2 is effortless on this bike. If I choose the wrong line, the bike fixes it for me. And the brakes... well they're Hayes. That says it all. I don't think I will ever use non-disc brakes again.
The parts spec is just sweet. The other bike I was looking at was a Schwinn Straight 6. Pretty similar bikes as far as price and spec (XT/XTR/LX/Hayes). But Giant went the extra couple feet by including RaceFace stem and seatpost, REALLY strong wheels, and the most frame gussets I have ever seen. Plus they have a better warranty.
Downsides? Well don't bother riding it on the road. I took off the big ring and replaced it with the bash guard... never used the big ring anyway. It's developed a couple of creaks in the bottom bracket area, probably due to the XT cranks and bottom bracket those will probably be the next items replaced. The seat that came on the bike was downright PAINFUL to sit on. The grips sucked, but I'm pretty picky about grips so maybe they aren't so bad for most people.
Overall, this is THE bike to have this year. In my opinion, nothing else comes close. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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