Submitted by
Frankster
a Cross Country Rider
from Quebec,Canada Date Reviewed: April 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
All trails,citys,
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
freind
Strengths:
Very strong frame, good looks, excepte for that ugly yellow or green paint model, good for high mileage, no breakdowns, very dependable bike, worth fixing and upgrades.
Weaknesses:
slightly higher weight, GT dealers in quebec are non existing.
Similar Products Used:
GT hard tail, Specailized full,
Bike Setup:
XTR front to back,Raceface crank,headset,stem,fox floatRC rear,marzocchi XC600SL front,Easton carbon bars,seatpost,Mavic crosslink wheels,WTB seat and tires,U name it,I changed it.
Bottom Line:
I bought the bike not sure if i would keep it but the bottom line is that it that this is the bike worth fixing up and riding hard
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Springfield,IL Date Reviewed: March 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Lake Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Wheel Fast
Strengths:
Takes a big beating,i-drive,frame is good.
Weaknesses:
Rock shox judy,very bad chain slap,a few other small things
Similar Products Used:
nome
Bike Setup:
Gt xcr 4000 w/ fox vanilla float air,azonic bars, azonic shorty stem------and a Giant Nrs
Bottom Line:
I do alot of jumping with this bike and it keeps on going time after time, IT CAN TAKE A BEATING,the fork is not the best but it will do, over all its a great bike. TIP--GET A CHAIN STAY PROTECTOR OR YOU WILL HAVE A LOT OF CHIPS IN THE PAINT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray
a Weekend Warrior
from Pollock Pines, CA Date Reviewed: October 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any long downhill i can find
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
Golden Spoke
Strengths:
it pedals great and takes a beating, it sticks to the ground like its glued there
Weaknesses:
it isn't so good for slalom, pinch flats are common when jumping
this is a great bike, it can be used for dh, xc, slalom, freeriding, whatever the trail throws at u or whatever u want to use it for. i'm gonna put a better fork and braks on it, then it will be perfect. basically i like it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kris
a Weekend Warrior
from Leuven, Belgium Date Reviewed: September 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
An ideal bike for anyone who - like me - likes long, epic rides and fast and spectacular descents. The suspension works really well and makes the bike stable and very comfortable. It's just an very confident ride.
Weaknesses:
It's a bit heavy maybe and I have been suffering from some substantial play at the main pivot. Industrial bearings would be a nice improvement.
Similar Products Used:
First mtb.
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox SID (weight savings); Deore LX brakes, shifters, brake levers, crancks, front derailleur; SRAM 7.0 cassette and chain (very good stuff!!!); Easton EA50 handlebar, stem and seatpost; Ritchey WCS aheadset; Ritchey Z-Max 1.7 WCS tires.
Bottom Line:
Well ... ergh ... it's a great bike, great value for money and a lovely ride. Too bad the pivot bearings aren't as great and a somewhat lighter frame wouldn't be wrong either.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Axis
a Downhiller
from Lakewood, Ohio USA Date Reviewed: May 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Vulture's Knob
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Co-Worker
Strengths:
i-Drive really WORKS!!! Great design. I weigh 200 lbs. and ride light DH, do drops no larger than 5 feet and this frame is holding up nicely!!
Weaknesses:
considering I'm not riding XC there is nothing weak about the frame so far. If I was an XC weight weenie then it would be too heavy.
Similar Products Used:
1st Full suspension... but I have ridden a lot of rigids and HT's.
Bike Setup:
Titec Hell Bent riser bars, Weyless DH Stem, 2002 Psylo fork, Conti 2.35 tires, Sun Ryno Lite XT wheelset, Hayes mech disc brakes, TruVative Stylo cranks, Race Face isis bb, Snafu pedals, T.H.E back front fender, Black xcr frame, GT seatpost and stock saddle.
Bottom Line:
When I bought the bike it had the cranks, BB and bars already upgraded. The bike has always been great but after my upgrades this bike really is so much fun to ride DH. I have had it a season and a half but the frame itself hasn't had any problems at all! I really have come to love this bike and appreciate the engineering behind the i-Drive suspension. I really love to work on my bike but you really do need to pull it apart evry few months to clean re-lube and such. I pull mine every two months just to check for cracks and problems. So far it has help up. I am hoping that it will last until I can afford a frame like a Joker or Bullit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimmy H-K
a Downhiller
from Crayford, Kent, England Date Reviewed: November 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
PORC's Duel track or Oldbury Hill (scary steep)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Bonthrone Bikes, Vauxhall, London
Strengths:
This is an update from when I first reviewed it in February. Okay, it aint quite a year but never mind. The I-drive system. Saddle; I said it was pants at first but it actually really softened up and it quite durable. Suspension is pretty much sorted for me. Those GT grips were ace! Stock setup was fine for the woodland tour but for some Air-time better to upgrade than suffer a mechanical!
Weaknesses:
Stock wheels held out for about 3 months before they died(I abused mine ... tut tut!) Stock pedals were shot after bout 6 weeks of easy riding. CAN'T FIND A CHAIN DEVICE TO FIT. IF ANYONE KNOWS OF ONE THEN PLEASE LET ME KNOW. THANKS :-)
Similar Products Used:
My mate's Diamond Back X-Link = Rear sus is poor, he don't ride no-where near as hard as me, or as much, or weigh as much as me but his rear sus developed horrendous play! 1999 Saracen Frenzy = Tank like, but tough, dependable and good when the ground pointed down.
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Judys (Need a new bushings and stiffer springs) DMR V8 pedals. Azonic Double Wall bars, Tranz-X 50mm CNC stem (It just like a World Force stem but cheaper) Sun Mammoth rims (These babys rule the world) Michelin 2.2" DH tyres. IN NEED OF A CHAIN DEVICE AND 3pc STEEL CRANKS AND SOME HYDRAULICS.
Bottom Line:
I've gotten into Duel, Jumping, Street and a bit of light downhill riding. I KNOW THE BIKE WASN'T INTENDED FOR THIS BUT IT ALL I GOT. I've found this bike to have excellent sprinting ability, even in my Tank-like setup, local traffic gets a nasty surprise on regular occasions. I've binned it many times but got up out of the dust to see the bike still in 1 piece. It feels well balanced when I'm in tight and technical situtation likes upon the top of a wall or twisty wooded singletrack. Discs are required to really stop the beast now, but V's will be good enough in the stock setup. I plan to run this frame until the financial situation permits a Intense Tazer or let's see what GT come up with in the future ... Happy Riding whatever you do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Cleveland, Ohio Date Reviewed: September 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Vulture's Knob
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Used from a friend
Strengths:
Rear suspension and frame... well it just plain works!!! Can't comment on the stock parts cuz the guy that had it before me replaced damn near everything else....
Weaknesses:
Creaking "potential" but with the right maintenance it's OK.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper FSR, Giant NRS, Kona MokoMoko......
Bike Setup:
XCR-4000 frame, XT shifters, XT V-Brakes and levers, XT derailers front and rear, Truv STYLO cranks, Race Face ISIS BB, Tioga XC 1.95 tires, Hell Bent riser bars, Azionic stem and Snafu platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
As the bike setup indicates the guy that had it before me upgraded ALOT. WIthout the platform pedals it was really light for an I-Drive. It rides like a light bike so the reality of the weight doesn't hold me back, infact it just makes it stronger. I put heavy springs in the Judy forks, put in 7.5 weight oil and set the travel to 100mm and now the forks work great!!! I also really like the fox coil over shock too. I am 190lbs and now that I have the suspension dialed in for me it is really really great!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zach Gless
a Cross Country Rider
from Dennis, Massachusetts, USA Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Trail Of Tears
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
I-Drive, Fox Vanilla Rear Shock, Rock Shox Judy front fork
Weaknesses:
WEIGHT
Similar Products Used:
Every bike out there
Bottom Line:
QUIT CRYING ABOUT BREAKING IT!!!!!! If you wrote a review about breaking parts of bending the tires you must weigh about 700 pounds!! This is DEFINETLY the best bike I have ever ridden. Its just that GT could of made the bike a bit lighter. But hey, ITS DAMN GOOD
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland, New Zealand Date Reviewed: July 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
whereever
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$640.00
Purchased At:
2nd hand
Strengths:
Its good just to be on a full suspension. The 4 inch travel on the back suspension is really cool. seems to make the ride easier. I got it at an awesome price, it was ltierally unused, the tyres still had the little rubber things on them. I have'nt been mountain biking for about 4 years (becasue of 4 years of study) but the advances in technology seem really good. I also like the Gt brand, my old bike was a GT. THe i-drive seems cool. I have'nt used another full suspension so I would'nt know the difference the i-drive makes, but it seems to do what its does well.
Weaknesses:
The seat gave me a sore ass after the first day, but I don't know if thats just me being weak. The gears don't seem to change that chrisp sometimes. Overall I'm reall happy with this bike
Similar Products Used:
I used to have a GT borego with RST forks waayyyy back in 93
Bike Setup:
stock standard
Bottom Line:
yeah I like this bike, I will have to re-evaluate it after about 3 months, or when i get to try a different full suspension, but at the mo I am happy with it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Auburn Date Reviewed: July 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$975.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Emporium
Strengths:
i-Drive
Weaknesses:
Weight
Similar Products Used:
A friend's old rigid (can't remember brand)
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I was an old-school bmx freerider and is my first mtb. I was going to get a hardtail, but the i-Drive swayed me... as it really works. I purchased the 2000 XCR 4000 over the newer, higher 2001 models for the price and the fact that I would want to upgrade the components myself, but wanted the same frame used in the higher models. This is a heavy bike stock...no kidding, but performs very well...I am consistently surprised at the situtations it pulls off. Would I buy another? Probably...but would purchase the frameset and then add my own hand-picked components. Should you buy one? Yes, if you are into FS performance and don't mind the extra weight. 3 for the value, 4 overall because the i-Drive actually works.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Ingram
a Weekend Warrior
from Richmond Canada Date Reviewed: June 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Oil Can
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Path
Strengths:
I-Drive Fox Vanilla 4.6 Nice Frame Pretty Strong
Weaknesses:
Derailer's Crank Set Brakes
Similar Products Used:
Warp DS1 Trek VRX
Bike Setup:
My bike is Pimped Out! It has Grimeca system 8,marzocchi Jr.T, super comfy seat, axiom dh stubby stem, Gazzoloddi Jr.T tire, Welgo pedels, Rhyno-Lite rim, truvativ ring, black spire ring god, and new shifter. The only stock parts, are the Crank arms, riser bar, grips, rear brake, and rear shock(which is broken rite now).
Bottom Line:
This is a pretty nice bike, i have spent over 3000$ on it so far, but it is so pimped out. I have fully converted it into a freeride/downhill bike. I know that it was made for XC, but a freeride bike with the same parts that i have costs like 3500-4000$. I have busted the rear derailer twice, rounded out the crank arms, bent two rims, popped two tubes, snapped off my brake lever, bent a ring, bent a pedel, and today (june 16) i just got my Jr.T and went downhilling at SFU, and the rear shock bottomed out, and seized up(while bottomed out), so it was like riding a chopper. I have done 5.5 foot dropes on this bike, and it handels them pretty good consitering it's and XC bike. Hopefully FOX will replace my shock otherwize i can't ride for a few months. Im ditching this bike as soon as i have enough money to buy a Brodie Devo frame, but it has lasted quite well so far, and i really abuse it. This bike is a good deal, if u freeride just save up for a real freeride bike, unless u can find some way to extend the rear shock to 6 inches. The frame is awsome. If u ride XC and do 3 or four foot drops, and a bit of easy downhill then buy this bike. This is an awsome starter bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Christiansen
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane,WA, USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bernard Ridge, Athol ,ID
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
From Friend
Strengths:
I thought it was a good design
Weaknesses:
To thin a guage of aluminum used in the seat post mount
I thought it was a great bike,until I folded the frame at the rear shock mount when the seatpost mount and rear shock weld to the frame. The shock went one way the brakcet the other and I was just cruising a gulley at Beacon Hill Spokane. The trail switched from a down hill to an up and that was the end of my love for GT.
Was a great bike,Now I'm going to a more stoutly build FSR Gt didn't do themselves any favors listening to the whiners about weight. Strength is what this bike lacked. I weigh 230lbs and was riding a 800 spring, no jumps mind you,just a momentum shift and I wasn't sitting down. If you ride this bike make sure you over estimate your spring needs because I cant be the only one to have folded this thing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Fambrough
a Cross Country Rider
from Plano Date Reviewed: May 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Erwin, Bar H
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$895.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Spectrum
Strengths:
Solid without feeling tank-like. Frame feels flex-free. Solid pivots. Smooth on both small and big-hit bumps. Minimal bob w/hard pedaling. Handling doesn't feel nervous or squirrelly in tight singletrack. Confident descender (note: it's not a downhill or extreme North Shore freeride bike).
Weaknesses:
Weight. Slow and steady climber. You can work it on the hills and provides good power transfer and traction in seated position. SDG saddle causes numbness. Rims don't stay true.
Bike Setup:
Standard components except for: Specialized Body Geometry saddle, Hutchinson Alligator Golds, and Shimano M646 clipless pedals. Planning on upgrading rims to Mavic x517 and Shimano XT hubs. Eventually, I will upgrade the suspension and drivetrain to lighten bike as my riding skills improve and components wear out.
Bottom Line:
All in favor, say "i-Drive." Seriously, there's a reason why MBA rated the GT i-Drive 4.0 best in their $1000 trailbike shootout over the Trek Fuel 80, Cannondale Super V 500, Gary Fisher Sugar 4, and Giant XTC NRS 3. It does everything extremely well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Lawrence, KS Date Reviewed: April 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$899.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
I-drive is great, climbs well. Black and Silver color scheme looks real mean. Feels extremely quick for an FS.
Weaknesses:
ALL stock components, bought this rig for the frame. Derailers constantly need to be tweeked. A little heavy.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar
Bike Setup:
Hmm...(inhale):XT drive train, crossmax disk, sella flight saddle, thomson post/stem, Easton C2 flat bar, yeti grips, avid mag levers, avid mech. disks, Sid XC, Fox Float R, Gore, Time peds, King headset, Michelin Wildgripper CompS, and a partridge in a pear tree.
Bottom Line:
This bike should be used for trail riding ONLY! Don't whine about breaking stuff on it if you jump off a 30' cliff. Bought this bike when I first got into mtb, since have lost my mind, changed everything, and fell in love with this bike. On the trail this bike handles like a comfortable hardtail. It doesn't feel like it weighs as much as it does off of the bike. Most of the weight is from the I-drive, the frame itself weighs just over 6 lbs.
If you are looking to buy an FS FRAME this is a great buy, but if you going to be serious rider buy a higher end bike in the line. They have MUCH better components and will make your life easier in the end.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fernand
a Cross Country Rider
from Newmarket, Ont, Can Date Reviewed: April 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lots
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Good smooth ride,nice and steady in down-hill sections. Climbs nicely. Rear Der/shifter works flawlessly.Mostly good selection of components for price level.
Weaknesses:
Seat hard on nether regions - replaced it. Problems getting front Der to shift properly which got worse over time. Solved that by changing front shifter to SRAM. Cheesy Crankset (Suntour)also replaced.
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock. SRAM Plasma front shifter. Specialized Body Geometry seat, Truvative Stylo (ISIS) crankset. Soon new self-built wheels Bonty Mustangs/Hope hubs
Bottom Line:
Over all I really like this bike. Just fun to ride. Balky shifting under load seems unique to me, though I'm not heavy (170). SRAM shifter solved that anyway. I actually prefer Rapid-Fire so I left that on rear Der. A good bike to start with and up-grade as your means allow.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Dippold
a Weekend Warrior
from Corona, CA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$395.00
Purchased At:
EBAY
Strengths:
Frame is great with rear I-Drive, frame alone is fairly light.
Weaknesses:
Judy XC forks are a little on the heavy side (plan to upgrade to lighter forks)
Bike Setup:
I purchased the frame and forks off of EBAY for 395 Total. I then got a XTR build kit, basically everything is XCR except the wheel setup is WTB, the kit came with a raceface headset. This was a steal at $899, everytyhing I needed to finish the bike. The only stock part is the frame.
Bottom Line:
My brother has a stock XCR 4000 and has the same problems as others, especially the shifting adjustments. I paid a couple hundred more than his $999 new, but by far I got the better deal, and the better bike. I love it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BRAD
a Cross Country Rider
from WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - USA Date Reviewed: April 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
ANYTHING ANYWHERE
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
PAULS SCHWIN
Strengths:
ONLY ONE------FRAME
Weaknesses:
ALL COMPONENTS-- JUST LIKE EVERYONE HAS SAID
Bike Setup:
UPGRADED TO MAVIC 619 RIMS, 14G SPOKES AND XT HUBS---THOMPSON STEM--- EVERYTHING ELSE STOCK, BUT ALL ON IT'S WAY OUT THE DOOR!
Bottom Line:
THIS IS A FOLLOW UP TO A REVIEW I SUBMITTED 11 MONTHS AGO. I MOVED TO N.C. A WHILE AGO, ALLOWING ME TO RIDE 11 1/2 MONTHS OUT OF 12. I'VE BEEN ON MY MACHINE RELIGIOUSLY. I HAVE REALLY FOUND THE STUFF THAT NEEDS TO BE SWAPPED OUT. IF YOU READ ANY OF THE REVIEWS BELOW, YOU'LL SEE ALOT OF THE SAME THINGS----THERE'S A REASON!! THE CHAINRINGS ARE WEAK BEYOND WEAK!I'VE TWISTED THE MIDDLE CHAINRING TWICE, AND I MEAN TWISTED- I FOLDED THE REAR RIM AT A 30 DEGREE ANGLE,, IT BROKE AT THE SEAM. THE MAVIC 619 RIMS AND XT HUBS PUT AN END TO THAT PROBLEM, NEVER TO BE MESSED WITH AGAIN! THE BRAKES ARE SERIOUSLY INSUFFICIENT- SHIMANO DISC'S ARE THE ONLY WAY TO GO. THE PRICE FOR THE DISCS HAVE FINALLY COME DOWN TO A REALISTIC PRICE MAKING IT A REAL OPTION FOR ANYONE. THE DERAILLEURS ARE IN NEED OF CONSTANT ATTENTION---EVERY RIDE I FIND MYSELF ADJUSTING THE B PIVOT AND THE HIGH SIDE ADJUSTER. NOTHING WORSE THAN CRANKING THROUGH A SECTION AND NEEDING TO SHIFT NOW----AND NOTHING. NO BETTER WAY TO BLOW YOUR SPEED. I HAVEN'T NOTICED A BIG PROBLEM WITH THE SADDLE, WHICH TELLS ME THAT I EITHER HAVE GOTTEN USED TO THE PAIN OR I'VE NEVER EXPIERENCED A REAL SADDLE. I HAVE NOT SEEN ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE FRAME OR SUSPENSION, ALTHOUGH I DON'T TRY TO FREERIDE WITH THIS THING. ALL IN ALL, I AM T-TOTALLY HAPPY WITH THE INVESTMENT! I'M GOING TO KEEP UPGRADING 'TILL THE ONLY THING THAT'S STOCK IS THE FRAME. THIS IS WHAT WILL HAVE TO BE DONE IF YOU WANT TO RIDE IT MORE THAN ONCE A WEEK AND NOT HAVE TO BABY IT EVERYTIME YOU WANT TO RIP. GO GT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Ingram
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Canada Date Reviewed: March 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Un named
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
The Cycle Path
Strengths:
Judy XC 63-80-100mm Fox Vanilla 4.6" iDrive
Weaknesses:
Rims are a bit weak Could be a bit lighter
Similar Products Used:
GT iDrive 4.0 Trek Fuel 80
Bike Setup:
Stock except upgraded to an axium stem, and upgraded tires seat (That racing seat it comes with sucks!)
Bottom Line:
This is the best bike for the price, tons of front and rear travel, very quick and comfortable to ride. I think that anyone looking for a reliable full suspension cross country bike and has limited funds to spend on it should definatly check out this bike. My advice is to change the seat right away, and if you can afford it you might want to get some stronger rims, especcialy of you are doing some big drop- off's. I got kinda ripped of on the price but I could only find it in one store so what the hell right?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe alonzo
a Weekend Warrior
from corvallis, or, 97333 Date Reviewed: March 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Time Warp
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$805.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
stellar design, great cornering, and it climbs great if you like to stay in the saddle. This bike also takes small hits really well, especially during cornering.
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy.
Similar Products Used:
Heckler, rocket 88
Bike Setup:
xt drive train, lx brakes, upgraded to bontrager superstock wheels.
Bottom Line:
this bike is great so far. Havent had it long, but so far so good. It feels great, you just have to get used to sitting so upright on it. It feels like you're riding an MX bike! I recommend it to the cross country/free ride enthusiast!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron
a
from Bradford, RI USA Date Reviewed: March 11, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Bicylces etc., FL
Strengths:
Looks awesome. Heavy duty frame. Light weight considering frame size. Excellent product for the price. Perfect bike for the serious but still recreational rider.
Weaknesses:
None found yet
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper, GT XCR 5000
Bottom Line:
This bike screams! I'm not a cycling nut or maniac all-terrain, cliff-jumping rider. I'm just a serious recreational rider and this bike is just awesome! If you're serious about off road riding, but not into jumping off boulders or spending $3,000 on a bike - don't look any further! Super high quality for the price. Much more bike than the XCR-5000, but not much more expensive. I love this bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimmy H-K
a Weekend Warrior
from Crayford, Kent, United Kingdom Date Reviewed: February 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Joydens Wood or anything on the Darenth Valley
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$820.00
Purchased At:
Bonthrone Bikes, Vauxhall, London
Strengths:
I-drive system, confidence inspiring, well balanced.
Weaknesses:
No disc hubs with the mounts, Saddle uncomfortable after a while, nasty seatpost! (I've hacked mine right down. It's just too long!)
Similar Products Used:
GT Backwoods hardtail, XCR 5000 and 3000 i-drives, Saracen Havoc, bunch of Marin Full bouncers.
Bike Setup:
Stock, except much modified seatpost and DMR V8 pedals, Tioga multi control saddle and THE front fender. Hopefully getting Hope discs and Psylos in time for the Summer! Maybe some XT bits and Raceface bits aswell.
Bottom Line:
This is the first full susser I've owned. I got it a it at a brilliant price. About £400 the TSP and I love it. It just inspires you do things you wouldn't do on a hardtail. Its a great all day bike. If you just wanna comfortbale and well balanced ride that you can play all day everywhere on, then take a test ride on a i-drive, you'll be impressed. I've ridden it everywhere whatever the weather. I'm gonna keep mine for along time. It is a great first time full suspension bike and me and my mates reckon begginer or expert can still have fun on it all day long. Its not a bike for DH racers or XC weight obsessives! It's a bike for the Weekend Warrior!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester Date Reviewed: February 16, 2001
For the £430 I paid I don't care if there are any weaknesses.All I know is that I enjoy my riding more.Its improved my ability.I just want to keep riding!!!My son is jealous(out done him at last). There are some keen deals on this bike around at the moment.Anyone looking to try the i drive should buy this bike.If you dont like you dont lose too much dosh.You wont be able to buy at the price I paid as it was a real special deal.Expect to pay up to £100 more.Still good value I'd say.Check it out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen H.
a Weekend Warrior
from Louisville, CO, U.S. Date Reviewed: February 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Walker Ranch Loop
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$650.00
Strengths:
Great i-drive setup, best full suspension bike that i have ridden
Weaknesses:
Little hard to maintain
Bottom Line:
Overall this i-drive 4.0 is a great bike and preforms better than most bikes that i have ridden. I would recommend this bike for anybody looking for a great riding experience an that just wants to have a great overall ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alister
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotland Date Reviewed: February 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anything gnarly or fast
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
Halfords (bikehutt)
Strengths:
The I-drive does indeed seem to be the ideal freeride sus setup. Robust build, take a look in the head tube. It is a thick as many weaker material frames - therefore super strong
Weaknesses:
Take a look at the other reviews and see. Basically you are paying £1000 for a bike that has the same frame as the £1800 i-drive. What is compromised is everything but the frame! As a freeride rig the forks are weak, wheels guarented to fold; sadlle is poor and those cranks can be found of £300 bikes. need I say more
Similar Products Used:
Orange partiot. Various trek bikes and a good range of custom kona s etc
Bike Setup:
Hope on Sun Mamathos, Enduro 4s, tioga 2.1 DH, Full LX. Proper flaties, Maz Z2s and a decent Headset. Then upgraded to the XCR 4000 frame (Year 2000).
Bottom Line:
I started with a sensible XC hardtail. Started jumping getting into freeride (read breaking parts) and so upgraded to the above components. Wanting to get into DH this came up at a VERY reasonable price. Never intending to keep the origonal components I took everyting of the old frame and stuck them on this.
Like the other guys say: Don't expect it to stay intact if you throw it off clifs. And don't expect cheep parts to be anything else. Rated as a frameset @ what I paid (sold the new bits off on old frame for £200 less than I paid for the bike)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron Swan
a Weekend Warrior
from Yorkshire, England Date Reviewed: February 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ladybower cross pennine
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$659.00
Purchased At:
Pauls Cycles
Strengths:
overall spec. frame, i-drive at this price
Weaknesses:
brake blocks, front tyre,
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS 3000, GT zasker, Saracen Frenzy
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Ok then.............this is good design which eliminates the feel of it being heavy. The problem is that to get the suspension to work properly you have to sit, which hurts your arse, to get the back end to stiffen properly, you need to stand, which i rarely do on climbs. Ive found that the back end isnt too soft like the LTS and doesnt squat, its great for stutter bumps and small drops but note that this design, by design, will NEVER be a good DH bike. It is an XC / freeride bike. If you want something in between a hardtail and Full bounce, this is the best you can do, but do try not to get a low specked one. i found the front Tioga XC cant grip the rocky stuff, but overall, GT have got the package perfect. Make sure you test ride this on your fave trail, cos it does handle a little different.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Billy Walker
a Cross Country Rider
from Alpharetta, Ga, USA Date Reviewed: January 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
chicopee woods (gainsville)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Roswell Bikes
Strengths:
Great I-d rive It works very well.
Weaknesses:
Weight, way too much for Cross country. I'm going to ger a K2 Rasorback RS And make It a Downhill Bike. Rear coil needs to be Air.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
RHYNO LITE DH rear wheel Every else stock
Bottom Line:
Its a great bike for the money just a little too heavy for me. If you are just starting out mountain biking Than you should get it to try the sport out But I dont suggest you get it if you know your going to stick wih mountain biking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh Taylor
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Albans, VT USA Date Reviewed: January 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any extreme singletrack
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
Alpine Shop, Burlington, VT
Strengths:
i-drive works; i like the fork and shock, but they are a bit heavy; awesome paint (matte black)
Weaknesses:
the saddle; if you spend more than 30 mins in the saddle, you'll want to upgrade (especially if you want to have kids); weight-i'm not whining, but over 30 lbs is just too heavy for an XC bike, even for only a grand; disk hubs would be nice with the mounts
Similar Products Used:
GT XCR 3000, 2.0, 4.0, Giant Warp DS1, Trek Y3
Bike Setup:
Stock, with Specialized Body Geometry MTB Comp saddle, Fox Vanilla R
Bottom Line:
I really like this bike. The i-drive works better than I expected. I like to do singletrack and this bike is perfect for it. It climbs well and descends great. I like to take it out freeriding every now and then. It handles it great since I upgraded the shock. I take 3-4 foot drops all the time and I haven't had any problems yet. I also really enjoy jumping with it. It has handled up to 3 foot high jumps and doubles without a problem. I would recommend this bike to anyone who wants a good bike for around a $1000 and who does lots of trail riding. I'm going to start racing it locally next summer. Can't wait! I really do dislike the original saddle though, it's sooo uncomfortable. I changed that fast. I think I might put an XT drivetrain on it to save weight and improve performance. Maybe a SID on the back and either a Psylo SL or an X-Vert on front. I'm a little bummed that I have to spend more money to get disk hubs, but for $1000, I like what I got. Go GT!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wanker
a Weekend Warrior
from Twilight Zone Date Reviewed: January 1, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
1. I-Drive susp. works, 4.6 in travel. 2. Faster that any hard tail the I have ever rode. 3. Value. For about a grand, you get 4+ in. travel, deore componetents, 6061-T6 heat treated frame and a Judy. Another plus is the disk brake mounts on the frame for a future upgrade to disk brakes if you want. 4. Fit. This is the first bike I have ever been on that fit me right without needing any mods.
Weaknesses:
I have had the same problem with the wheels. At first I thought that I had just hit something wrong and tweaked that rim, but other people seem to be having the same problem. Another minor problem is that front derailer. It works, just not as well as I expected it to.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Trek, Schwinn
Bike Setup:
Stock. I will look into upgrading the wheelset and possibly the crankset in the future. My dealer told me that the crankset is heavy and that it is worth it to upgrade.
Bottom Line:
I researched a new bike for a long time and talked to my dealer before coming to the decision of the GT. I had the best components and suspension for my price range. It was also the bike the dealer recommended over a Schwinn Rocket 88 and a Jamis. I also needed a bike that would work with my bike rack. Another factor was the susp. doesn't run on bushings such as Specialized. I am very happy with my purchase.
This bike is a trail bike, so ignore the reviews below of the wannabe downhillers whining about it. It is NOT a downhill bike, and nobody ever said that it was. Besides most downhill bikes cost 3x this bike. They should know that. I only weigh 135-140 pounds and I use all of the travel in the rear, so if you are a heavier rider, you will want to put a stiffer spring on it.
The bottom line is that it is fast on the trail and is very comfy. Right out of the box, it is faster that my hardtail in almost any situation, the exemption being steep climbs when traction is readily available. 4.5 smokin' cow-pies.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Orlyn
a Weekend Warrior
from Gardnerville, NV Date Reviewed: December 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Pinenuts-Night Train
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
The I-drive does what it is supposed to do, what a smooth, controlled ride! All of the components on the bike are better than what I am used to, so I like it all - the shifters, brakes, handlebars, etc. My friends on hardtails can't keep up with me over the rough terrain thanks to the rear shock. No more hardtails for me.
Weaknesses:
A sad story with a happy ending: After owning the bike for two weeks, the frame cracked by the seat post. It happened while on a ride, and by the time I made it back to my vehicle the cracks had grown. Happily, the owner of the shop where my bike was purchased acquired another frame from GT and had me back on the trails in a week. Interestingly, GT replaced my XCR 4000 frame with an I-Drive 1.0 frame??? I was impressed. However, I have noticed in other reviews (XCR 1000 & XCR 4000) that other riders have had frames break. What is the deal? Is there a design problem or did we just get some flawed aluminum?
Similar Products Used:
Trek, other GTs, Diamondback
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! I am impressed with GT and my local bike shop owner for the way they handled the warranty claim on my frame. I would recommend this bike. As a matter of fact we just bought another one for my wife.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross Country Rider
from Vermont Date Reviewed: December 20, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Alpine Shop Burly, VT
Strengths:
The rest of the bike rides great - remains very fun.
Weaknesses:
This is a follow-up to my review of two weeks ago. Buyers beware of the rims on this machine. They will not stay true. They have been retrued twice now, and literally fall out-of-true within a few hundred yards of initiating a ride. I have not even ridden 15 miles on this bike yet, but I have a sinking feeling that I know the outcome for the wheels - replacement. The worst thing is not the out-of-trueness, but actually the tiny 'wibbles' which are throughout both sides of my front rim. These cannot be trued, and provide me a very unsafe pulsation thru the front fork which feels like front auto rotors needing turning. They are also very, very flexible. You can feel it in every tight turn at low speed.
Bottom Line:
GT needs to offer different rims than these Weinmann xc420's. Some poor fool will get hurt using them, and probably get some lawyer to laugh all the way to the bank suing GT. if you are buying one of these otherwise fine bikes, discuss upgrading with your shop immediately. Four flames for value since I will now need to drop another 200 on wheels, still five for the fun ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vermin
a Cross Country Rider
from Tallahassee FL Date Reviewed: December 19, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
i-Drive, Judy, Fox Vanilla......
Weaknesses:
rims a bit weak.....
Bike Setup:
Upgraded brakes to Avid AR50's
Bottom Line:
Follow up to previous review- I've been beating this bike for some time now, and aside from the rims, it's taking everything I'm giving it. The reviews for this thing SHOULD be higher. Sadly, people who do downhilling think that this is a downhill bike. They really need to wake up. Instead of whining that the bike isn't holding up, they should look at their own selves They need to say- " I bought this bike to downhill because I couldn't afford a real downhill bike. I know I should have read up on the bike because I would have noticed that nowhere does it say that this is a downhill bike. Not GT, not the magazines, not anyone. I should have guessed that because good downhill bike FRAMES (What, in fact, does a good downhill FORK run? ) start at 1500 or more, that this was not a downhill bike. Downhill bikes weigh a ton, and have LOTS of travel, and are very expensive, so the XCR-4000 isn't a downhill bike. Boy am I a big poopiehead. I noticed that GT does have a downhill bike now, and it cost alot more than this, probably because it's built for downhill. What WAS I thinking?"
I think they need a little more honesty in their lives.
I wonder, if these people take their Neon offroading, do they complain when it breaks down?
I love my XCR-4000. That doesn't make it a downhill bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thrasher
a Downhiller
from Melbourne Australia Date Reviewed: December 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bulla
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
I have only had the bike for 3 weeks don't know how strong it is , but after giving it a thrashing afew times the bike does'nt seem as though it can take much.
Weaknesses:
For downhill the whole bike
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike after downhill riding with some friends for the first time.I feel that If you want a bike for downhill get one that is made for it this bike is not,you will waste money upgrading,dont waste your time or money buy something better
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross Country Rider
from Vermont Date Reviewed: December 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Alpine Shop, Burl., VT
Strengths:
IDrive is very very nice and smooth. I see that some have labelled many components as junk or whatever. While that may be true, I'm not yet sure. As they say in African desert, 'Metal Breaks.'
This bike is a very nice climber, and goes quite fast downhill comfortably relative to the bike it is replacing (ca 1986 Fisher hard-everything bike). Feels like a machine, as opposed to assembled. Cush. Steers well, corners at speed really well. Nice agro tires.
Weaknesses:
I did throw the wheels out of true my first full ride, and I presume this to be a 'new bike syndrome' kind of thing. The shop will take care of it. Too new to know whether the rims are weak or not. I am leery of the Suntour chainrings, which have a funky design. The seem to shift very smoothly for now. I also replaced the koski brakes right away with the Avids I had gotten a great deal on while the bike was on layaway. The SDG saddle also was just complete junk, as everyone noted. I actually had purchased a Specialized procto-special saddle anticipating this.
Similar Products Used:
Tried Fishers, Giants
Bike Setup:
Stock, upgraded to Manitou x-vert super fork (great match both color and handling-wise)and Avid SD25 brakes with Avid 1.9 levers. Specialized proctologist-special saddle.
Bottom Line:
This is such a difference from my old machine that I hardly know how to ride it! Very fast on bouncy terrain. You can plow over rocks and obstacles, dive into and survive 5 in capillated frost-soil on trails, and basically have lots of fun. The fork helps I am sure, but at the same time, it's cold in VT here, and the shock is certainly not working as it will during the warm weather. The back shock seems to pre-load correctly no matter how much or littel load you place on it. I guess this means that you can dial a cush ride if desired. Anyway, Buy what you want, but definately ride this or another Idrive. I'll re-post in a few weeks once I;ve broken it in.
5 flames overall since it's such an incredible ride relative to my old machine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony Washburn
a Weekend Warrior
from Bly, OR Date Reviewed: November 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
plasma
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
internet
Strengths:
black looks tuff and gets many looks. mine came upgraded with some stuff already.
Weaknesses:
heavy comes with some junk parts. heavy uphills. I miss my hardtail.
Similar Products Used:
Kona
Bike Setup:
Judy Race, 750 lb spring, full XT, Formula Disc brakes
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike to upgrade, I can't wait to do everything that I want to do with it. I am getting Hayes discs and a Z1 Cr pretty soon and I will be set. I have gone pretty much everywhere with this bike I just go a little slower uphill. You should buy it if you want a fs bike that can do everything a little above average.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Kalamazoo, Michigan Date Reviewed: November 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fort Custer (near Battle Creek)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Alfred E. Bike
Strengths:
I-drive is great!! Comfortable ride for a 6'5 250 person. I am happy so far with the suspension and components
Weaknesses:
Wheels (especially rear) Already broken spokes on hard hits.Derailers are a bit hard to fine tune. If anyone has noticed, the front derailer moves as the rear shock is compressed. Not sure if this is a normal problem with full suspension bikes.
Similar Products Used:
Test road Giant, specialized, gary fisher models, trek. Most full suspension bikes in similar price range. Found xcr 4000 to be best bang for the buck
Bike Setup:
Stock parts (fox vanilla rear, Judy xc front, Koski brake-lite brakes, sr suntour crank (probably not good), and deore wheels and components.
Bottom Line:
Bottomline is so far so good. First ride not even off road I busted a spoke jumping a curb but I am over 240 lbs (not fat) For those who mentioned a shimmy feeling in the bike, dont look at the frame, look at the cheap wheels and loose spokes for the problem. I am upgrading to mavik 618 wheels and disk brakes over the winter (an extra 624.00)Overall, on my first major offroad ride I hung with a serious cross country racer on a 2300plus cannondale lefty with no problem. The xcr handles technical sections extremely well and climbs well (regardless of its weight) so long as you stay on the seat as much as possible during the climb. I also found that it corners beatifully at higher speeds. Our trails are extremele narrow in spots (barely a handlebars length). I was able to make split second course corrections without any problem. All in all a good bike for the money and for what you can do with it. For those of you who disagreed, you ought to be driving tanks through the woods because nothing else you ride will last unless you have 10 to 20k for a bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hawkin Everts
a Downhiller
from Pincher Creek ,Alberta,Canada Date Reviewed: November 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Kodiak Carnage, Fernie B.C.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
This product is a not bad product to start out with if your just a begginer
Weaknesses:
If your just starting out and you think your going to get into riding it will only take you a couple of rides before your hooked.I bought this bike to start out riding a week later i was rippin down the fernie dh and having the time of my life but now 6 months later i've broken 2 rear deraillers, both brakes and trashed the bike all around. No offence but this bike is a peice of s...! I know your thinkin i'd be a good bike to start out on but i trashed it to hell and am looking at a full out dh bike now!
Similar Products Used:
Have tried and loved bullit and super 8
Bike Setup:
xt loaded, everything else is stock i'll just buy a new bike instead of wasting money on this bike!
Bottom Line:
This bike sucks after you've started riding hardcore but is not bad if you just want to start out but you should consider a cheap heckler instead.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arrrgh!!
a
from Frowndon, MA Date Reviewed: November 3, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Good ride. Hauls like a mule.
Weaknesses:
GT -the company in general
Bottom Line:
I've reviewed this bike when I first got it. Gave it rave reviews. Now I'm not sure. Three months into the summer the frame cracked just underneath the seat post tube. My LBS is great in that they put in for a replacement right away..but here I am ONE MONTH later, and still no frame. GT's giving bs about having trouble finding the repalcement.. is their inventory on computer or parchment?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dustin lynch
a Weekend Warrior
from albert lea,MN, usa Date Reviewed: October 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
lutsen mountains
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
very smooth ride. strong. no need to change brakes or levers.
Weaknesses:
you would think that if they could come up with a awesome idea such as the I dive they would have the brains to use some type of system to keep the pivot bar in place. the seat post needs to be cut because it is set up paul bunyin style.
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this is a good bike if you dont want to go to big. it is cheap and not very high maintenence. i love cows.
Ladies Only ( If you start with male parts you may not have them at the end)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Steveston Cycle
Strengths:
i-Drive with the simple un-unified unified rear end really does climbs like goat. No problems with pivots or rigidity. Stock year 1999 bike is my first love. Starting with basic competent cheap 4000 frame I have been able to build an excellent free rider with year 2000 bike that is much cheaper and a better performing bike that many more lauded high end big name suspension bikes.
Weaknesses:
Koshki saddle on the 2000 GT damaged me to the point where after one ride, I could not sit on any saddle for 1 1/2 weeks. First and last Koshki. Replaced it with a WTB. Product is expensive relative to the some what cheap component selection but up here components don't last too long. A squashed XTR derailleur looks just like a squashed Deore. i-Drive is hard to keep clean on the drive side. Shifter/brake pods are a mistake for any serious off road machine. The hills here are littered with pieces of shifter and brake pods. Separate components means cheaper repairs and easier switch to discs. Stock 2000 bar is worse than 1999 model for this area.
Similar Products Used:
Tested Kona Stinky Deluxe and Specialized FSR.
Bike Setup:
1999 GT 4000 is stock except for Blackspire big chainring protector, Axiom downhill platform pedals, and RaceFace LP cranks. 2000 GT 4000 has Bomber Z1 QR 20 fork, Axiom shorty DH stem, Easton EA 50 riser bar, Rhyno Lite rims, rear Shimano disc hub, Tioga 2.30 DH tires in lieu of stock 1.95 Tiogas, WTB saddle as replacement for Koshki.
Bottom Line:
Having two identical frames with completely different setups is revealing. The 1999 with stock long stem and Judy shock is great for singletrack and mildly rooty and rocky slopes which is hard to find here. It cannot be wheeled easily and the front fork runs out of travel quickly going down hill. It does climb like a goat so long as you keep the rear weighted. The stock front end set up I found would not handle downhills and the rooty west coast trails at speed. The 1999 WTB tires are good on compact or loose material but suck on roots and rocks on side slopes.(the vast majority of North Shore trails).The year 2000 bike has the front frame 3" higher than the stock bike, and with the riser bar, the bar is 4" above the stock bike. With the long travel 5" front end fork, shorty stem, riser bar, the seat moved back and the post shortened significantly, and 2.30 Tioga DH tires, this thing is an excellent free ride bike that will handle any vertical angle and mucho speed. The Tiogas I have found will always find a way to grab onto the polished roots where the WTBs would break loose. I find the vertical climb impaired only with extreme angles where the rock will cause a slip to start with any bike at times. My 5'-0" tall, 120 lb., 11 year son can wheely the year 2000 large frame off the ground at will, and can bunny hop the bike over logs over a foot high. Weight is not an issue with performance like this. I actually choose the older basic 4000 frame because it is actually stronger than the monocoupe seat post of the more expensive models. Free riders in this country are breaking the welds to the seat post and the curved top/seat tube. I only wish GT had produced a stock full suspension bike more suited to the Pacific Northwest.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Heywood Jablome
a Cross Country Rider
from Oak Harbor, WA Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anacortes, Little Cranberry Lake
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Island cyclery
Strengths:
Climbs better than my hardtail ever did, descends great, going over obstacles is a snap with this bike.
Weaknesses:
One word, CHAINRING!!!!!! And constant maintenance and I don't mean the usual kind, it has to be spoon fed. The chainring has bent twice now (middle) and I mean bent.
Similar Products Used:
none only hardtails
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Kind of a love and hate relationship with it, when it works it's a wonderful ride over any type terrain. I notice a lot of people saying that a $1000 dollars is nothing to spend on a bike, well I say when your raising two kids and everyone in the family has a mountain bike including mom a thousand bucks is a little spendy. The bike needs some serious upgrades to be consistent in the saddle. I wish I would have checked out the Gary Fisher Sugar first. If you like to tinker with bikes and have money to spare for upgrades then by all means plunk down a grand. Remember though that when it works right it's sweet, trails that were a bit difficult with my hardtail over roots and rocks and logs uphill or down are a snap on the i-Drive. My biggest challenge with my previous bike was obstacles while climbing, and this is not the case with my i-Drive at all. The rear wheel sticks on steep climbs, and the suspension sucks up all the nasties for fast descents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vermin
a Cross Country Rider
from Tallahassee FL Date Reviewed: September 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Camp Thunder, Georgia
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
i-Drive, Judy XC's, Fox rear shock.....The damn thing climbs like a goat. I had to take it to another STATE to test this, but I was seriously impressed.
Weaknesses:
None that I didn't know about to begin with, or can't be easily fixed... ie- people need to stop whining. I will be keeping an eye on this review board though, to see if any more frame/shock mount problems come up
Similar Products Used:
FSR A1 Comp, Mongoose...
Bike Setup:
Except for Bontrager flat bar, and Specialized MTB Sport saddle, it's stock. But it won't stay that way for long!
Bottom Line:
If you can find a better, lighter, cutting edge design than this rig, buy it. Quite simply, you are not going to get components that are found on the high end bikes. That is because this bike sells for around a grand, or less. You just aren't going to get something for nothing...You don't have to like that, but that's the way it is. If you can stand riding something mango and eggplant, save up for the XCR-1000, THAT has the high end components.
One thing though- From a marketing standpoint, GT dropped the ball when it came to the saddle...... How are you supposed to recommend their products to your kids, when you CAN'T HAVE ANY?!?!?! At least not after using that stone-crushing stock saddle for any length of time.... I made the shop take that thing off before I even test rode my bike. Everybody (and everything!) is happy now. 5 flamin' roadkills.
PS- Nothing SCREAMS "Yuppie" quite like a Cannondale....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
The Stick
a Cross Country Rider
from Utah Date Reviewed: September 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Slickrock
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Rear Suspension, Price
Weaknesses:
Fork, brakes, WEIGHT
Bike Setup:
Stock demo bike
Bottom Line:
I was considering the purchase of a higher end GT 1000 or 2000, but the bike shop had only a 4000 available for demo. I took the bike up a packed/sometimes rocky singletrack which I ride often. this trail climbs about 700 feet in the first two miles. I charge up this trail on my Cdale hardtail. After about the first mile, I looked back to see if I was dragging a sand bag, a dead body or an anchor. Nothing. I felt like I was riding a 40 lb. Kmart special. Back at the bike shop, I had them weigh it for me. 33 lbs! The fork deflected on every half buried baseball sized rock, and seemed to cause the bike to oscillate from side to side. The fork also had a visible and felt vibration front to rear, during heavy braking on a downhill street. The brakes were flexy feeling and barely adequate for the downhill return. On the positive side, the I drive worked well with negligible bobbing, even when standing in the pedals (and non-locking rear shock). A locking shock is not really necessary for this bike. The rear tire stayed glued to the ground during steep loose climbs. I give the bike 3 flamers overall, and I am being generous because it was a demo and has probably been ridden hard. My new Raven is on the way.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Pollock
a Cross Country Rider
from Camarillo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sulpher Springs (Cheesebro)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The I-Drive clearly lives up to the marketing hype (in my opinion). This bike has outstanding stabilty for climbing and cross country (and the occassional street jaunt). Being a converted long time street rider, this is of major importance for me. The XL frame is also important for me (being 6' 4" - 235 lbs). Matt Black color is also very nice.
Weaknesses:
I had the exact same problem a Eric from Greenfield wrote about below. The Fox Vanilla rear shock bottomed out and bent the attached bolt. All I knew was that there was a constant squeaking noise after about 500 miles of riding. It turned out that the frame holes for that bolt were now cracked.... There was no abuse on this bike whatsoever. Now, I haven't been mountain biking for over three weeks, as I am waiting for a new frame from GT. My original LBS is now out of business. I had asked them for the heavier spring (.750?) and they said I didn't need it. ANYONE OVER 200 LBS BUYING THIS BIKE NEEDS ONE! My new LBS (and GT) determined it was the fault of the old LBS. Therefore, I was not offered the replacement warranty - but rather a "goodwill" warranty. The XCR 4000 WAS NOT AVAILABLE! I decided to pay an additional $300 and upgrade to the XCR 2000 frame (with Fox Float RC rear shock). Given a choice, I would have taken this option anyway..... But, GT is now backlogged on these frames and I have been waiting (and very frustrated) for going on four weeks! Also, I am upgrading both derailers and shifters to XT and XTR. I really did love this bike while it lasted - except for the constant need to adjust the gears. The upgrade should resolve that. Oh yeah..., I had to upgrade the crank to LX. After only 200 miles the center ring bent. That actually may be the weakest component on the bike. Lastly, the Tioga rear tire wore a bit quickly - so, I an upgrading to Veloceraptors.
Similar Products Used:
Miscellaneous older (hard tail) Diamond Backs.
Bike Setup:
Until the Frame Cracked - I had the LX crank and otherwise all stock components. Replacement version will be all upgraded (including frame) expect for the Judy XC front fork, Deore hubs and original brakes.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is I got screwed over with this bike. With advise from expert MB friends - I avoided Cannondale and other lighter frames. I bought the XCR 400 for I drive stability, XL frame size and frame sturdiness. My plan was to continually upgrade all Deore components to XT/XTR as time went on - keeping the original frame. THEN IT DIDN'T LAST! I'm not saying don't buy this bike. But INSIST on the heavier springs (front and rear) if you weigh much over 200 lbs.
Also - I'm told that the XCR 5000 and 4000 frames are made in Taiwan. The 3000 and up are made in the USA. I asked for the 2000 replacement because it is tig welded and butted - lower versions are not butted. Some of the below reviews state that the GT frames are all the same. They are similar in appearance - but not the same.
The other bottom line is my being very disappointed in terms of customer satisfaction. It is very unfortunate that my original LBS is not around to answer for this... But GT should be doing a much better job for me. My new LBS is trying their best.... But, two of my friends have just bought brand new bikes. They were strongly considering GT - but went elsewhere after seeing first hand what I am going througb!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Julian
a Cross Country Rider
from Kansas City, MO, USA Date Reviewed: July 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Landaul
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This bike has a nice frame that comes close to the lower xcr models. This bike is good for someone who wants to learn and replace parts as they go to upgrade
Weaknesses:
The read shock is weak. Also the parts are all Stock Deore. It would be great with a couple xt components
Similar Products Used:
Trek 200vx
Bike Setup:
XT Crankset, XT VBrakes and Shifters, XT Rear Derailer, Kore Stem 3D, Onza Hoza Pedals, everything else stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is a good bike for a beginner who is interested in taking up the sport and thinks they will stay with it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ewen Burg
a Racer
from Canberra, ACT, Australia Date Reviewed: July 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Majura
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The only stock item i have is the XCR 4000 Frame. The rear suspension on it is sweeeet. And the I-Drive works well. It climbs very well for a Dual Suspension bike; i can keep up with some people on their hardtails, especially on rough terrain.
Weaknesses:
Geez... Fox Vanilla Rear Shock? (bottom of range) ... None of this Air shock stuff, but maybe an RC?
Similar Products Used:
Giant DS-1
Bike Setup:
XTR Drive train with RaceFace Forged cranks, Azonic DH Bar, Azonic Stem, Thomson seat post, Ti Seat, AC Hubs, Rhyno Lite Rims etc ... DA BOMB! Oh yeah ... Race Tuned Z1's.
Bottom Line:
This bike has REALLY impressed me. I have taken it offroad and given it a solid flogging. I have done some 1-1.5m drop offs, and some jumps getting about 2m air (jumped going downhill ... eeeeeekk!!!!) and it just soaked it all up. It climbed a loose trail here very well, and i can even climb a significant number of steps with it ... (your normal sorta steps...).
Its geometry is well defined ... The bike feels fantastic - gets better with more speed ... While i am still gaining confidence on it (had it 5 days now...) i feel bulletproof on it ... (After all ... it WAS setup for Nationals DS)!
Great bike - I got this setup for AUD$2000 ... which the bike is really worth more like $4500 ... So i scored an awesome deal - if you can too, GRAB IT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nathan hatfield
a Downhiller
from Steven's Pass, Washington Date Reviewed: July 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
hard drop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The I drive is pretty great, everyone pretty much agrees on that though. It allows you to keep pedalling no matter how much your suspension is working which is great when your riding super sick trails
Weaknesses:
I've only been riding this bike three months and i have broken pretty much everything on it, derallieurs to brakes to bending rear suspension spring, i bought the bike for just over a grand yet in the past three montths i have invested just over $600 in repair, for that i could have aforded to by the xcr 3000.
Similar Products Used:
everything in the 1000 dollar range
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Great frame, great bike. If you ride more than three days a week though, and are a serious mountain biker, not the weekend roll down a loging road type, no matter how well you maintain it your components will blow out. I'ts a good bike, but what the frame is built for and can handle, the components fall way short.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
EaterOfDog
a Cross Country Rider
from Florida Date Reviewed: July 27, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Killer frame! i-Drive frame is the same as the XCR2000. Very good performance from shock set.
Weaknesses:
Cheapo seat bent rails badly on first ride. Heavy parts.
Similar Products Used:
Tested many other bikes, i-Drive makes the cut! Formerly owned a cheap full suspension.
Bike Setup:
Stock with WTB seat.
Bottom Line:
One fast, aggressive ride off the rack.
Buy this bike for the frame and upgrade for weight and performance.
Nice red/white paint.
Riding the i-Drive is simple: Sit down. Pedal hard. And don't stand up unless you have to. Hammer right through everything. i-Drive keeps that rear tire right on the ground.
This bike rides lighter than it is. Trim some weight for extra predatory instinct.
Switch the seat out when you buy the bike unless you're one of those racer-stick people.
GT gets kudos for this frame at this price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Greenfield Date Reviewed: July 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Scioto Trails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame and front shock.
Weaknesses:
Suntour crankset, BB, Koski brakes/levers, and deore front and rear der.
Similar Products Used:
GT hardtails.
Bike Setup:
XT drive train, LX hollow tech crankset, and LX V-brakes. Everything else is pretty much stock.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow-up from a previous review. This stead is awesome! With the drive train upgrade, this bike will hold it's own with any other comparibly equipped bike.
I have experienced one problem with the rear shock (Fox Vanilla). I noticed that the rear shock was coming into contact with the swing arm, thus, causing a squeeking noise when the suspension system engaged. It took several weeks to learn what was causing this noise. I took it to my LBS, and they in-turn contacted GT about the problem. (so I was told). Anyway, the shock wore down a portion of my swing arm.
For those of you who own the XCR-4000 with the spring assembly installed on the bottom, be sure to check your clearance! You may get by with just rotating your coil spring around, to give you more clearance. My shock came installed this way, so I think it is a warranty issue. I thought I would just pass this along to my fellow MTBr's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Westchester, New York, United States Date Reviewed: July 24, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
the i drive is awesome, you dont have trouble climbing, as you do with many full suspension bikes; the color and look kicks; this bike is really fast; shocks soak up all the bumps
Weaknesses:
the components are a little weak, but for this price, no one can really complain
Similar Products Used:
trek vrx 200 and 300; cannondale f/s; almost all f/s bike up to $1200
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
this bike is awesome. there is no way around it. i tried it out at killington, vt. while they were having a norba (xc and downhill) race on the xc race trail, and it rocked. the bike soaks up all the bumps you can throw at it. i have no complaints about the shocks.
the components on the bike could be better, but i cant really complain cause of the bike's reasonable price. (i grabbed the bike from one of the bike shops in killington for $750)
it may be me, but i was astonished at the speed of the bike. when your riding this bike, you go alot faster. it may be because of the shocks, or sheer excitment out of riding the bike, but you go fast.
lastly, the i drive rocks. there is no way around it. you can climb steep hills without lossing much moment, or bobbing as you do with most f/s bikes. in fact, the women's gold medalist at killington in the xc race was riding an i drive gt for the first time, and she ripped it up (finishing a minute before her competitors) and she contributed her win to the i drive. one thing is kinda odd though, i found that while i was climbing steep sections, i was lossing a little bit of traction, but that might be because of the conditions, or the bike, but afterall, no bike can be perfect for this price.
but for now, ill keep tearing it up in the gt xcr 50000
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BRAD
a Cross Country Rider
from WATERTOWN ,NEW YORK Date Reviewed: June 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
INMAN GULF TRAIL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
ABSOLUTELY RIPS ON ROUGH TERRAIN!! I I-DRIVE SYSTEM ALLOWS YOU TO SHRED AND STILL HAVE COMPLETE CONTROL OF THE MACHINE, NO MATTER HOW CRAZY THE TRAIL!
Weaknesses:
I'LL HAVE TO AGREE WITH THE MAJORITY ON THE WEAKNESS OF THE BRKAES AND FRONT SPROCKETS! EVERYTHING WAS SWEET 'TILL THIS WEEKEND. I FOUND A NEW SINGLE TRACK TO RIDE, IT HAD SOME PRETTY TECHNICAL STUFF, ON ONE OF THE LANDINGS, I TWISTED THE MIDDLE CHAIN RING, AND LATER, BROKE A FEW TEETH OFF THE OUTSIDE RING. AS FOR THE BRAKES, THEY LET ME DOWN AT THE START OF THE RIDE, THEY WORK OKAY, BUT THE LEVERS ARE KINDA WEAK, AND DON'T RETURN ON THEIR OWN, MAKING THE BRAKE STICK THROUGH THE RIDE.
Similar Products Used:
TESTED SOME CANNONDALE AND TREKS, BEFORE PURCHASE. FELT THE GT WAS SUPERIOR DUE TO THE I-DRIVE AND THE FACT THAT THE XCR 5000 HAS THE SAME EXACT FRAME AS THE 1000, HENSE THE PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES AND STUFF.
Bike Setup:
STOCK NOW, BUT I NEED TO UPGRADE THE BRAKES (SHIMANO DISCS LOOK PRETTY TEMPTING!!) NEED SOME NEW FRONT CRAIN RINGS. ALSO THE RISER BAR FOR THE HANDLE BARS NEED TO BE REPLACED.
Bottom Line:
REALLY AN OUTSTANDING CHOICE!!! YES THERE ARE PROBLEMS WITH SOME OF THE ACCESORIES, BUT GIVEN THE FACT THAT THE FRAMES ALL THE WAY UP THE LINE ARE THE SAME, THEY HAD TO REDUCE PRICE (AND QUALITY) SOMEWHERE. OVERALL THE BIKE IS A CRAZY MACHINE! IT SOAKS UP ANYTHING YOU CAN GIVE IT! THE BIKE GIVES YOU AN UNREAL CONFIDENCE ON TERRAIN MOST PEOPLE LOOK AT AND TRY TO AVIOD! THE AMPLE AMOUNT OF GEARS KEEPS YOU SHIFTING, AND RIPPING!!! AS FAR AS THE DEORE PACKAGE ON THE BIKE, THE HUBS ARE SWEET, THE SHIFTERS ARE FLAWLESS (AS TO DATE) THE DERAILEURS AREN'T BAD, BUT REQUIRE ATTENTION ON EVERY RIDE.I THINK AN XT PACKAGE WILL FIX THAT! I MYSELF AM 6'3" AROUND 250lbs OR SO, I'VE GOT THE XL FRAME AND THERE'S PLENTY OF ROOM, MORE THAN I CAN USE!!!!!!!! NOT EASY FOR ME TO SAY ON ANY PRODUCT!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a
from Malden, MA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Takes a beating. Works smoothly, consistantly.
Weaknesses:
The general trade offs that you face with any FS. Plus the weight. Not much for the saddle either.
Similar Products Used:
Tried various bikes from GT, Haro & Trek. Full rigid to FS. Anything in the $900-$1200 range that I could get my hands on.
Bike Setup:
Stock for now, until something breaks then I'll upgrade.
Bottom Line:
This is a great FS bike for the cost. It has the same frame as bikes 2X+ the cost further up the XCR series. The components are not that great, but hey, they actually work well and when they break, upgrade. It's best to start off with a good frame. I bought my first MTB back in 90' and the changes since are incredible. When you read a bad review of this bike the reviewer most likely has no perspective of how good a machine this is because he/she probably started riding in recent years and has too much dough to spend on bikes/parts that they can't begin to appreciate. Try this bike, you'll like it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Iron River Michigan Date Reviewed: May 17, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Handless good in loose steep train. I've acually been using it for more of a freeride bike and it's held up very well. I am suprised on how well it's held up, I;ve gotten up to 4 foot drops with it and it handeled them well. Also their is less pivotes to mantain.
Weaknesses:
Fork has NO adjustability. The booklet says you can make adjustments by turning the top nobs, they really don't do anything. The only thing you can do to adjust the feel is to get different springs. I also have had problems with the derailers getting nocked out of adjustment.
Similar Products Used:
fsr
Bike Setup:
stock except for body geometery seat
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price. I have friend who bought the 3000 and he likes his as well. If you're just getting into the sport and want somethin low mantainence, this is the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ant m
a Weekend Warrior
from miami, fl Date Reviewed: May 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
oleta,markham
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
plush
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
zaskar
Bike Setup:
marzochi z2 long travel, easton monkeylite, race face, xt
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike. i've been a faithful hardtail rider for about 9 years. i cant believe i waited this long to get a full suspension. this bike floats over rough terrain and i find i can ride alot faster and am less tired at the end of the ride. the only thing i left stock on the bike is the seatpost os its not that heavy any longer, but my only complaint is the weight. other than that it is one great bike. five flaming chili's for the xcr.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Erie Date Reviewed: May 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
front shock, I-drive,
Weaknesses:
rear and front derailer
Similar Products Used:
schwinn fs, and various hardtails
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
This bike is the BOMB!!! I love it i'v been riding it for about 3 months now and the only thing i'v had to replace is the rear derailer, which i replaced with a LX. The front derailer and crank might need upgraded in the future, but for what i paid i cant complain. Bottom line is that if you buy this bike you will only have to mank minor upgrades to make this a very reliable and sturdy bike. I plan to bike across the great state of Pennslyvania at the end of summer 2000. And I also plan to ride across the country in 2005 which i hope to take this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Lugga
a Weekend Warrior
from New York City Date Reviewed: May 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
BLue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame, I-Drive and suspension
Weaknesses:
Crank and rims
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I just got my GT and I love it! This bike can handle the toughest trails with ease. The I-Drive kicks ass. This bike is FAST. Can't beat it for the price. Be warned though, the rims and the crank are a little weak, I tacoed my front rim already and chipped a couple of teeth off the crank, but now I got an XT crank and a Mustang Rim so im good to go. GT all the way. . . .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Weekend Warrior
from Council Bluffs, IA Date Reviewed: April 30, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great all round bike for the money! Great components for the cost. Front and rear shox work great so far. Love the look of the bike.
Weaknesses:
Front derailleur may need a little work or replaced. Thats about it though so far
Similar Products Used:
NONE
Bike Setup:
Factory
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. Took it to the trails and gave it a beating. Came home cleaned it and looks like new. First FS and right now I would never go back to the hardtail. Great bike for the money!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Cali Date Reviewed: April 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
double down
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
the crank is a little weak but thats it
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I just got my GT and it's great. It soaks up bumps and rocks on the trails. This bike really flies, when they say FAST is corporate policy they really mean it! You cant beat this bike for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from NY Date Reviewed: April 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The I-Drive, Frame and Deore Group
Weaknesses:
The Crankset is Crap
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Don't pay any attention to the review below this one. That guy obviously has a bug up his ass about something. This bike is great, i've been riding it for a few months and I love it. I've only had to relpace the crankset after breaking a few teeth off the 3rd ring. The I-drive really works, it keeps me in the front of the pack everytime. It's a great bike for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Walter
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: April 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Sweet ride. The deore groupo works great.
Weaknesses:
What's up with that wheelset and cranks! That rear fox shock is pretty weak but standard for this price.
Similar Products Used:
Fischer joshua z1
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Spin wheels and Deore cranks. also dumped the riser bar and went with straight bars with bar ends. Just my personal taste.
Bottom Line:
This bike is the BOMB! At this price point you won't find a sweeter ride.(IMO) This bike has so many setup options that anyone can get that "perfect" feel. It's not too heavy. In this price range no one makes a bike that can brag about the weight. This bike sucks up everything you can throw at it and doesn't climb all that badly either. I found that setting the rear shock with a little more preload than recommended would greatly reduce the bobbing while climbing. I also thought that I would have to upgrade the deore derailers right away but they have performed perfectly. No complaints there.
This bike is perfect for anyone who wants to ride a quality FS bike. The xcr frames are exactly the same all the way up to the 1000. This is great if you are on a budget and want to upgrade components here and there. You will start out with a quality bike and eventually end up with a top of the line ride as money permits.
5 flamin chilis chilies for value, 4 overall. Can't get past that "huffy" wheelset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a
from Richfield, UT Date Reviewed: April 6, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
almost everything, especially the suspension and i-drive
Weaknesses:
stock derailers are a little weak
Similar Products Used:
c'dale front suspension, full suspension (HeadShok sucks!!)
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Cool bike, great suspension. My last two bike were C'dales, one with no suspension and one with HeadShok front. I'd never go back to HeadShok, the Rock Shox Judy with the Fox Vanilla rear makes my favorite trail so much more enjoyable without fighting the bumps. The red and white frame is sweet! Recommended
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Central, Ohio, US Date Reviewed: March 27, 2000
The bike is awesome. Took out for one hard ride, and the bike took it without a glitch. I am in the clydesdale class, so the bike has to be worthy of the abuse. The X-Large frame is superb, plenty of room to sretch out and enjoy. This bike is a must have. Also, Disc Brake compatible, with cable routing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Cusumano
a Weekend Warrior
from New York Date Reviewed: March 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Buffer Zone (MTA)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Mean looking frame. The i-Drive. Plush Suspension for tough downhills. No pedal induced bobbing going uphill.
Weaknesses:
None found yet
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Dakar Pro, Jamis Exile, Gary Fish Level Betty
Bike Setup:
Stock except switched the Rapid Fire to Grip Shift and upgraded Deraileurs to an XT front and SRam 9.0 rear.
Bottom Line:
Love at first ride. . . The bike is a beauty and handles like a dream. I went from a hard tail to this full suspension bike and I'm glad I did. The bike eats up downhills, and I can handle more extreme terrain with ease. I found going up steep hills was easy and not as springy as other full suspension bikes. Must be the i-drive :). The weight factor isn't a problem either, once you get on one you will see how it flies. . . . GT kicks ass!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Dangerfield
a Weekend Warrior
from Littleton, CO, USA Date Reviewed: March 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Silverplume
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great Suspension, I-Drive works great, great components for the price.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy. (But so am I)
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper FSR A1 Comp, Gary Fisher Joshua F4,
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to XT front and rear derailers
Bottom Line:
This bike so far has been great. It eats up just about any trail. The ride is smooth. I would recommend upgrade to either lx or xt derailers, most bike shops will not charge that much. I paid $60 TOTAL for both front and rear to xt. Other than that the bike is awesome. This bike also climbs great. Don't listen when people say the bike is too heavy, most full suspensions are going to be heavier.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
james holton
a Cross Country Rider
from winter park,fl Date Reviewed: March 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
strong frame, awesome stealth black paint, good spec for the price
Weaknesses:
just a little heavy, but not much
Similar Products Used:
alum.hardtails
Bike Setup:
z-2 bomber,lx crankset, xt r.derlr., deore f.derlr., profile stem and riser bar, mavic crosslands
Bottom Line:
this bike is the "bomb!!!" the ride is so smooth. the fox vanilla shock works fine. overall, it's a little heavier than my old aluminum hardtail, but the ride more than makes up for it. especially downhill! the weight is coming down as upgrades go up. the weight's no bad to begin with. the awesome matte black paint job looks down right mean!!! great bike!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Wheeler
a Cross Country Rider
from Oak Ridge, TN Date Reviewed: March 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
911
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
i-Drive, Deore group, Syncros riser bar, Ritchey pedals
Weaknesses:
none for the price
Similar Products Used:
'99 XCR2000/3000, SuperV's, FSR's, Mantra's, Y's
Bottom Line:
I just put one of these together, and was pleasantly suprised. The Deore group is very solid, and the Judy front/Vanila rear shocks work great. And I was very suprised at the relative light weight of the bike. Nothing on the bike looks like it will be a problem. Even the Koski brakes worked as well as the '97 LX V's I ride. Overall its a great deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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