Submitted by
mavis mofo
a Cross Country Rider
from B.C. Date Reviewed: February 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Climbs great, descends singletrack with precision. Bombers are plush and hard to bottom out.
Weaknesses:
Replaced the Formula discs-they are junk
Bike Setup:
XTR vees plus replaced shock with a Fox Float RC
Bottom Line:
Apart from the brakes problem and the pivot bolts loosening once, this has proven to be just an awesome performer that makes me faster over rougher terrain than I ever have business doing. My best bike yet and my third Rocky.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank
a Cross Country Rider
from Waterford, Mi Date Reviewed: November 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sycamore Canyon, Ca
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great Ride Not a cookie cutter frame Zokes Forks
Weaknesses:
Formula Brakes Formula Hubs
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Sugar 2
Bike Setup:
Stock except I recycled the Formula crap because I couldnt live with myself if I tried to resell it
Bottom Line:
If your looking for cookie cutter frames (Specialized...Trek...Schwinn...etc) and bikes that everyone has then Rocky isnt for you! Rocky makes a great frame and this bike rides impeccably. I have had the chance to ride this bike in various locations. I lived in Boston for 3 years and have recently moved to Michigan. As far as the East is concerned this bike is in its element. New England trails are slow and very rocky, very technical... the bike excelled. In Michigan the trails for the most part are fast and loose not so technical but the Rocky still performs adequately. But for all-around riding this bike is hard to beat. I have used it in (2) 24hr. races and it was great. Both races were very technical with many ups and downs and very wet conditions.And I have also used it in Moab and So. Cal. and bike was outstanding. The only major change and it was somewhat expensive...was to dump the Formula products...brakes and hubs.. I switched to Shimano Discs and Hayes hubs and have had no problems since. It is difficult to find a full-suspension bike that will do it all. The Rocky Instinct is definetly a TRAIL bike and not a race bike but when its in its element you will not find a better bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andy johnpetty
a
from oakham Date Reviewed: October 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
barre country bike and sports
Strengths:
handleing, ride, comfort, and little lost in weight gain or power loss to a hard tail.
Weaknesses:
reliability, brakes, and whats with all the squeaks
Bike Setup:
mostly stock save fore the seat
Bottom Line:
i bought my instinct as a left over this year three months ago. i read a few of the existing reviews here and hoped the problems others had would not plauge this bike. when i first rode it i thought it was awful. it felt slow and heavy, the rear bobbed like crazy and the front end always wanted to be 2 inches to the left or right from where i wanted it. but, after tightening the the headtube adjusting the fork and playing with the shock's airpressure the thing turned into a trail rocket. i am wickedly impressed with this bikes handling and the suspension works very well at both ends. my climbing ability was not hindered at all comepared to my hardtail.
what im not impressed with is the fact that the stock formula discs are terible, the smallest ring wore quickly and chainsucks like mad. Worst of all the main pivot bolts dont like to stay in! they didnt look as if they had been lock tited so the first time i just snugged em back in. the second time i applied blue lock tight. they still came out!
in my first race with this bike i made it about 9 miles in before the right bolt worked its way out and jammed up my crank. That did it for me considering i was leading with 6 miles to go. i wont tell you what i did(to the bike) so i could finish with a respectable 4th (second start endero)but i am now really ticked at myself for not solving this problem earlier.
without formula brakes more compatible drivechain components and the renagade bolts this is a excellent bike and a good investment for racing.
good luck
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cory Gillard
a Racer
from CAMPBELL RIVER BC CANADA Date Reviewed: July 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Foreplay
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Raceface rules!suspension kicks ass!shimano is awesome!
Weaknesses:
BRAKES, formula sucks!!!Rear chainstay snapped twice(under warrenty)occasional chain suck
Similar Products Used:
Giant ATX990, Fisher, other rocky's
Bike Setup:
stock except for rhyno lites and continentals,shimano 636's
Bottom Line:
This bike is sweet for uphill, downhill, singletrack, racing and weekend riding . not too great for drops and a bit clumsy, formula brakes suck!. haven't broken anything race face...yet. Shimano parts are holding up good too. Rear chainstay snapped twice, but it was a maufacturing defect and was replaced both times for free. overall AWESOME bike!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam
a Weekend Warrior
from B.C., Canada Date Reviewed: June 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Fred Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Killer frame, climbs well without any bobbing, screams down singletrack with aplomb. A great all day ride.
Weaknesses:
Stock Formula brakes
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Specialized, Canadian tire
Bike Setup:
Stock except replaced discs with XTR v's.
Bottom Line:
With above mentioned changes this bike has provided me with nothing but reliable, trouble-free jaunts on some killer singletrack. Saves my old arthritic back and makes riding a truly spiritual endeavour.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from AnnArbor Date Reviewed: June 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Poto
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame Overall Performance
Weaknesses:
Formula Brakes Formula Hubs Race Face Rings
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock..and added Shimano Xt discs with Hayes Elite Hubs
Bottom Line:
Rocky makes a great frame and a great frame makes a great ride..I just abused this bike at 24hrs of Adrenilin in New Jersey and the bike performed flawlessly..Great ascender and even better at descending...loves twisty singletrac.. The Key for me was to junk the Formula crap especially those crappy brakes...Makes me wonder if Rocky really tested those things... I also added Shimano discs after my Formula rear hub went..and what a difference..brakes that work...no more noise...and no more chain suck....grat bike..great ride
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff S.
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, B.C. Date Reviewed: April 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Squamish Test of Metal Course
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Weight, frame, lots o' Race Face, climbs like a goat. I bagged the sweetest deal. This is what cross country full suspension should be
Minor poking around with similar Fisher, Brodie, GT, Specialized & Giant products.
Bike Setup:
Stock, except: Shimano 434 platform pedals, Race Face flatbar, bar ends, Rock Shox SID XC, Bontrager 'cutaway' saddle,XT V-brakes
Bottom Line:
I was looking to move up to XC full-suspension without a significant weight penalty (and without having to enter the flesh trades to pay it off - a pretty tall order). Most of the bikes I looked at weighed in around 28 pounds. The fully stock Instinct was also a tad heavy for my tastes, but I was able to make the changes noted above thanks to the accomodating nature of the dealer. Biggest weight savings were dumping the disc brakes (which I'd heard were pretty stinky anyway) and swapping the 'Zocchi for the SID. These changes brought the weight down to around 26lbs. The SIDS aren't quite as plush as the Marzocchi's, but they're a helluva lot lighter and perform great. Fox Air Float R collapsed one day - fixed under warranty. Haven't had a problem with it since. Hope it stays that way. Have yet to fix the niggling squeaking. Haven't had a chance to do a lot of off road yet, but several hours on Burnaby Mt. have me yearning to get riding up at Squamish & Whistler once the trails clear. "I'm not getting older, I'm getting better - bikes." P.S. -one more important thing to mention - if you do any technical riding where you'll be needing to drop your seat down in the frame, you should be wary of interrupted seat tube full suspension frame designs. Many of these designs won't allow you to drop your seat any significant degree. This factor had me dismiss the Specialized offerings out of hand.
My bike is super-duper! Happy trails...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy DeLandro
a Weekend Warrior
from New York Date Reviewed: April 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any one
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Quality craftsmanship Great value Race Face components Shock ajustability Stunning good looks
Weaknesses:
Formula brakes
Similar Products Used:
GT
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Shimano 636 pedals
Bottom Line:
I finally got this bike in April after paying for it for several months. At first I was going for the less expensive RM Element and later upgrade to Race Face components but took the salesperson's advice and got the Instinct instead. He told me it would cost more to upgrade later as opposed to getting it all at once and he was right.
I got the grey/black frame and changed the pedals to 636's and I love my bike. Sometimes I just stare at it and smile. This bike rides really great. The only problem I have is brake rub from the Formulas but the dude from the shop said it would eventually stop. The brakes stop me so I won't complain.
I set the rear shock fairly stiff because I ride in the city but it still doesn't bob excessivly when set up softer. I am yet to take it off-road so I will post another review later.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bernd Clemens
a Cross Country Rider
from germany Date Reviewed: March 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
the look, the weight and the fitted components
Weaknesses:
not easy to servicing (the rear suspension..)
Similar Products Used:
just HT like Marin and Scott, and some Fullys as a test
Bike Setup:
Race Face, XT comp. and Magura Louise Disc (v/h), Bam Z2
Bottom Line:
although the disc have made little problems with adjusting, I've never had driven a better bike than my RM. But I must wondering that I had going to smeared the rear suspension already after a short distance (50km) because the bearings are without of grease.(bit a "genuine" BALLbearing would be the best) I mean the Magura Disc is a lot better than the Formulars. I think therefore my opinion about the bike is better than the other postings. The rest (the stiffness, the fork and the rest of the parts) is more than okay. (please excuse my bad english). greating vom germany
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric B
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO, USA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
it's a secret
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
it's aluminum so at least it's recyclable.
Weaknesses:
does not get the advertised travel frame is a flexy noodle pivots suck limited fork selection - 3" and under nose dives dramatically under braking.
geez, if i tell the truth, i may not have a warranty.
Bottom Line:
DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY! i bought just the frameset after being told by my local Rocky dealer how great they were. at first i was stoked, but that faded very quickly. the rear shock pivot blew - warrantied. then the dealer called me in to warranty another pivot, this time it was the main one by the bottom bracket. the bike is sooo flexy i can rub the chain on both sides of the front derailler cage just by cranking hard in the saddle. i can literally feel the front triangle noodle around when i stand up and crank. the nose dives so severely under braking, it makes a 3-inch stroke fork worthless. the website nor my dealer failed to tell me that i could not run a 4 inch stroke fork without ruining the warranty. WHAT A JOKE! that's because the real travel of the rear is only 3 inches, NOT 3.6 like rocky claims - this is false advertising. many people on the trail have asked me about the bike because they were going to buy one, but i have convinced them otherwise. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY AND BUY THIS P.O.S. BIKE!! save up and go with quality, not this junk. i just hope i can sell it and get some of my money back to buy an intense.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam
a Weekend Warrior
from B.C. Date Reviewed: March 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
it's b.c. , baby
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Everything( except the now defunct brakes).
Bottom Line:
You negativity purporters are really starting to get my hemorrhoids to flare. Give me a break, at least my dealer made every effort to remedy the brake problem, you guys are just bashing for the sake of being nasty. Go stick your head in a blender.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Teddy
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada Date Reviewed: March 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Spanky's
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
don't own the bike...only ridden it a couple of times
Similar Products Used:
FSR XC
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Mark and Pistol Pete have got this bike down to a T. Anybody who compares this bike to a FSR really has no idea what they are talking about. The brakes may suck, so what, get a pair of vee brakes. Thats what the frame bosses are for. Or for about $1000 cdn. get Hayes hydros. I will be getting this bike unless I get a job, in the near future, then I'd get an RM6. The Instinct, has a trail bike feel to me and would excel at pretty much everything. Trials, 6ft drops, log rides, ramps. Pretty everything I'd ride. Don't believe me do ya?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Racer
from CA Date Reviewed: March 2, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I bought this as a lightweight XC racer (like a Specialized) The hype behind it had "light, FS XC" written all over it. Sadly the bike cannot hang with my fellow racers' more efficient suspensions. I am amused that people always invoke the "North Shore" buzzword to convince me that a bike is good. Maybe it is because we have waaay too many "freeriders" now. Lightweight bikes have a different mission. I guess Intense and Turner would've licensed RM's link if it was indeed superior to the FSR design. Going back to my review. yes the disks suck. Hayes please. The perfect racing RM would have an FSR linkage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pistol Pete
a Weekend Warrior
from B.C., Canada Date Reviewed: February 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything in b.c.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great build, excellent suspension, handling, sturdy, built in b.c., not a wimpy, breakable FSR.
Weaknesses:
None now.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Trek, Cannondale, etc.
Bottom Line:
Interesting that such a legend as John Tomac, who is getting excellent reviews on his line of bikes uses a swing-link, rising-rate suspension set up, like Rocky. Hmmmm...you'd think that he has the resources and the knowledge first hand of what suspension design he prefers. Also, you rarely see any Specializeds around the North Shore, and read about how easily they break. Lightness at any cost, eh? If you need an honest appraisal about how a bike works and how it holds up, ask yer bros from B.C.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pistol Pete O'Flanahan
a Weekend Warrior
from B.C., Canada Date Reviewed: February 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anywhereinb.c.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Awesome suspension design, great uphill, smooth and straight tracking through the rough stuff downhill. Changed the awful Formula discs to xtr v's and couldn't be more pleased. This is definitely the best bike I have owned of 17 bikes.
Weaknesses:
Not marketed right, no r&d on discs before release, in other words Rocky blew it and ended up with a tainted product. Talk to anyone who owns one like mine and you'll see how good it is.
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Cannondale, Specialized, Mongoose
Bike Setup:
Stock with xtr v's, changed tires.
Bottom Line:
I read stupid reviews from people who don't know what they are talking about or from Chris from Charlotte and I have to scratch my head and wonder...if you have a problem, go to your dealer, get it fixed to your satisfaction and stop complaining. I totally agree with the review prior to mine, you will not find a more balanced suspension set up for xc or all day riding. I have thrown a lot at this bike in the last year and it keeps impressing me every ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from Canada Date Reviewed: February 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
This review has been submitted to counter-point Motherlode and Wallofsleep. You obviously have no idea what active suspension is. The Rocky Element/Instinct frame is the definition of active. At no point does it lock up and chatter, including climbing. It does move when climbing, and thats a plus for traction. This frame never feels like it is slowing you down. This design (rising rate linkage) is far superior to the FSR and Sugar designs. The rising rate starts out supple for small stuff and increases leverage to overcome the air shocks quick ramp-up, thus using full travel when needed. The FSR XC and Sugar do not do this, providing a bouncy ride. This design is not out-dated, it was ahead of its time and therefore needs no change. I think it is perfect for XC racing (with lock out for fire road climbs) and give it full marks!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Motherlode
a Cross Country Rider
from GA Date Reviewed: February 25, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
You look bad ass when you have a Rocky Mtn
Weaknesses:
You only look bad ass when you have a Rocky Mtn
Similar Products Used:
Giant XTC
Bike Setup:
Stock Instinct except for seat.
Bottom Line:
This thing spends more time in my LBS than under me. Formula Discs are a pain. Do not take delivery of ANY bike spec'd with them. Also I agree with Wall.. the suspension design is assbackwards in this day of active multi linkage designs. Real expensive too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wallofsleep
a Weekend Warrior
from Az Date Reviewed: February 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good value for the money, nice paint job
Weaknesses:
Inefficient suspension desgin.
Similar Products Used:
FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock Instinct
Bottom Line:
RM needs an active suspension design. This thing only works when you are sitting down on it. The disc brakes are always a source of problems too. RM has been helpful though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe H
a Cross Country Rider
from Eatontown, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: February 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great frame!
Weaknesses:
None noted yet.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y-frames, Rubicon and Cannondale F/S bikes
Bike Setup:
Instinct frame custom spec'd with Race Face components, Race Face and Scram 9.0SL drive train, Hayes hydraulic brakes, XT disc/Mavic 223 wheelsets.
Bottom Line:
I wanted a sub-27 lb full suspension X-country bike with hydraulic brakes and 3 1/2" of suspension at both ends. Mike and Wayne of DJ Cycles helped me make it happen and I owe them! And they're one of the few Rocky Mountain dealers in the area. If you need good advice on your next ride and are in this area, go there! No bike had what I wanted within my budget so I ordered the 2000 Instinct frame, a Cambria build kit and an RST XMO air fork. It came in at just under 27 lbs and what a sweet ride! The XMO air fork is about 3lbs and is a great match for the Instinct's Fox air shock in both travel and feel. No problems with air leaks with either shock. The Instinct rear linkage seems to eliminate bobbing and the Fox's lockout is great for long smooth climbs or out of saddle efforts, otherwise the rear end works so well it isn't required. The frame layout seems to be on the short side and Rocky Mountain includes the top tube measurements for each frame size in their catalog. Be sure to pay attention to this. I normally ride a 17" mountain bike frame and anything smaller than the 18" Instinct frame would have been cramped (and this is with the 1" offset Race Face seat post). Since I don't have the Formula brakes, I've got no problems at all with the bike. As much as I loved my hardtail, the plain truth is that I'm noticeably faster over all trail conditions on this bike. The rear end has no slop whatsoever. If you decide to build your own and can't find an Instinct frame, the Element frame is almost identical but doesn't have the lockout Fox shock. This is a great all-day ride. Buy one if you want a "do everything" bike, if you want a full suspension bike that actually looks like a traditional bike, or are upgrading from a hardtail. This is a great riding and great looking bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
the goon
a Cross Country Rider
from WA Date Reviewed: January 31, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good frame
Weaknesses:
Fork is slightly undersprung (common for Zocchis), the Formula discs just flat out bite. Bike creaks somewhere in it's nether regions.
Similar Products Used:
My other bike is a (don't laff) Schwinn Moab
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I spent ALOT of time trying to get these Formulas to work to my preference. It seems that they are always grabbing and dragging. The bike creaks everywhere and I have chainsuck if I as much as shift both my rings and cogs at the same time. My local Rocky Mtn dealer has been of little help (he's burning his bridges here). 4 for the nice frame, less one for the brakes (hello Mister Product Mgr?), less one for the chainsuck, less one for the creaking. I'd rather ride my Schwinn (not as chic but the damned thing works)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from Vernon Date Reviewed: December 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Spanky's'n'36DDD
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Couldn't tell ya.
Weaknesses:
Couldn't tell ya
Similar Products Used:
Element race Spice Brodie Zig-Zag
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
One helluva sweet ride. So plush and responsive. Almost fell over the first time I turned the handle bars. Not used to such quick responses. The brakes aren't as grabby as I thought they would of been. What is this about the granny gear falling off? Oh, and Chris, after you complain about something, you either fix it, or replace it, just thought I'd help ya out. And to off set your bad reviews for no reason, the rating is...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross-Country Rider
from NYC Date Reviewed: December 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
F. Gilbert Hills State Park, Foxboro, MA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
climbs well, greay fork and rear shock, super fun,
Weaknesses:
rotten brake spec
Similar Products Used:
i-drive, level betty, x-4
Bike Setup:
Dean Jester hardtail with Girvin fork
Bottom Line:
This bike is great as far as I'm concerned. It's a great climber, goes downhill well, and is just fun to ride. My only problem is with the brake setup. They've never really worked at all, and they squeal like crazy. However, the guys at the shop informed me that Formula told Rocky not to spec the brakes with the Avid levers, because they would not work very well. Also, Formula says they will have a new pad with a different compound that should eliminate the noise.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross-Country Rider
from London, ON Canada Date Reviewed: November 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountian
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame set, Fork(B2), Fox shock, LX Shifters, XT Derailers, Race Face Cranks, Stem and Post.
Weaknesses:
All other components, ESPECIALLY THE FORMULA DISC BRAKES.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Speed, Specialized XC,
Bike Setup:
Switched to Hayes Full Hydralics Front and Rear, TI Bar, O2 Seat, TI Scewers, Mavic X317 Disc Rims, Hayes Hubs, Continetal Tires, Sachs 92 Chain.
Bottom Line:
I was plagued with problems with the stock set-up from day one... On the first ride the pivot bolt came loose and toasted the granny ring. I had the bike into two different bike shops in order to set the the Formula brakes up, with no sucess. Pads didn't work and no set-up changes would rid me of these usless brakes. Finally with the support of the Boyd's Source for Sports, NOT Rocky Mountian, we put the Hayes system on and I now love my brakes. The stock Sun CR18 rims were useless. All I had to do was look at a log or rock and they went out of true. I don't think that Rocky actually tested the stock set-up before they sent it out on the market. BOTTOM LINE: Excellent frame set, fork and rear shock...forget the rest and build from there.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam
a Weekend Warrior
from B.C., Canada Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Beautifully constructed, awesome specs, except for the Formula brakes. Climbs well, descends great. An excellent all-day ride that will keep surprising you with what it and you can ride over. A designed and hand-built in B.C. bike that is tough, reliable and a pleasure to ride.
Weaknesses:
Absolutely none with XTR v-brakes replacing the pathetic Formula brakes.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Trek,
Bike Setup:
Stock, plus v-brakes
Bottom Line:
After a few bugs, replacing the brakes, and subjecting this bike to 6 months of all types of trails and riding conditions, it makes me wonder how I managed to ride mountain bikes for 15 years without full-suspension. An awesome ride that won't disappoint. By the way the 2000 will come spec'd with v-brakes. Buy one.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Pa Date Reviewed: September 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Three mile trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
EASTON frame Fox Shock Nice Paint Nice construction Simple design
Weaknesses:
Pivot bolt loosened up.Red lock tight fixed that.Bushing in rear shock went south RM sent me out a new one, great bunch of people.
Similar Products Used:
Amp b-3,Amp b-4,Dagger b-3,Giant xTc.
Bike Setup:
XTR/517 wheels Chris King no thread Race Face stem XT 5-bolt cranks rock ring un-72 xt 11-30 cass. xt V-brakes and levers 9.0 sl shifter and der. xt bottom swing front der. Monkey Lite Low rise bar alligator golds tires 100 % rubber tubes WTB xr saddle Thomson seat post Z-2 Bam 90 mm hop up
Bottom Line:
Great trail bike does every thing well.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Charlotte, N.C. Date Reviewed: September 24, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Quality built frame
Weaknesses:
Components
Similar Products Used:
Kona, Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Factory Stock
Bottom Line:
Persistent component failure along with getting shuffled around by Rocky Mountains customer service people has been one bad experience for me. A word ofwisdom, spend your hard earned money elsewhere.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: September 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Fast & Rocky!
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Everything except the Brakes
Weaknesses:
Brakes
Similar Products Used:
Specialized S-works M4 (sweet.. yet too pricey)
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I rode my friend's 1999instinct & loved it (except the brakes in a big way!)... I was going to buy the Bike regardless of this weak-point(cause it's just that much fun); however, I recently found out from a tech. at Rocky Mountain that the 2000 model is spec'd with a V-brake setup similar to the one on the Element T.O. Thus, I suggest if you really want this bike that you wait & save yourself some stress, I know I'm going to!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frederic Edwards
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ottawa, ONT Date Reviewed: September 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything in the Gatineau park and surroundings
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Everything but the brakes.....
Weaknesses:
Brakes
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Formula brakes are a pain in the ass. Whoever invented the system that holds the pads should be shot. The bike shop where I bought the bike suggested using high temperature automotive gasket adhesive to hold the sucker in. Did that, no more problems. Other than that, a great ride, lottsa fun and very different from a hard tail. Rode a Klein Attitude before it was stolen out of my car. I hope the breaks a chain in the middle of a mosquito infested swamp...sorry had to get it out.. .As for the Instinct a 4 is what I give it because of the brakes.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sr. Escalante
a Cross-Country Rider
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: August 26, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Beefy frame...super-smooth & great handling; Race Face hardware
Weaknesses:
Brakes & wheelset
Similar Products Used:
Heckler, Amp B-3, a decade of hardtails
Bike Setup:
All stock
Bottom Line:
A sick ride. If you want a bomber trail bike, this is it. Stay right with the hardtails on the climbs and leave them in the dust on the way down. It convinced me that softails are the way to go. But wait 'til next year. Hopefully Rocky will ditch the Formula set-up for good-old, tried and true XT V-Brakes with XT/Mavic wheels. If not, buy the frame and build it up yourself. I've been able to keep the Formulas working, but they need to be adjusted after one medium-sized downhill. The wheelset has been a pain too. My back wheel is out of true after three rides. Good thing I've got a toolbox. You can keep it running, but I spend a lot more time working on this bike than I do with my hardtails. Going to have to get new brakes & wheels this winter while they're on sale. 5 points for the frame, 4 for the bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam
a Weekend Warrior
from Penticton, B.C., Canada Date Reviewed: August 6, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Awesome specs, beautiful construction, plush suspension, great ride.
Weaknesses:
(Former) Formula Discs
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Trek
Bike Setup:
Stock except switched to XTR V-brakes.
Bottom Line:
I really tried to like the Formula brakes but after they failed completely on a long downhill, I had enough. I replaced them last week with V-brakes and now feel that my bike is complete. Hats off to Chris and Jose at the Bike Barn, the best service on the planet, 250-4924140. With brakes this is truly the best bike I have ever owned.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pedro
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston Date Reviewed: August 4, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The Ride The Ride The Ride
Weaknesses:
fussy brakes faulty little chainring
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
After much talking with Rocky...Race Face..Formula and my dealer the bike now works great...The smallest chainring was faulty and Race Face set me a steel one..works fine...The Formula Brakes are fussy to deal with but once setup work great and I believe I have eliminated at least for now that infernal squeaking noise....used automotive antisqueak stuff... Eventhough i have had problems the fact remains that Rocky has built one hell of a unique trail bike.!!!!!! Buy It....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Cross-Country Rider
from Whitby, Ontario Date Reviewed: August 3, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
I'll start by saying that this bike has taught me to be a better climber by forcing me to climb in middle ring (because the chain fell off the granny ring), and it taught me to go down hills faster (because the Formula disk brakes is not good large) After four months I finally have the bike working properly. I had three major problems, four if you include the lack of response from my local bike shop where I purchased it, the front shock was too soft, the chain constantly jumped off the granny ring when climbing and the disk brakes were and still are crap. The front shock was an easy fix, but the firm spring was on backorder from Marzzochi for two months. Race Face sent me a steel granny ring to replace the aluminum one, problem solved (As a side note, the customer service person at Race Face was great, I told her my problem and she sent the new ring, no questions asked). I eventually gave up on the disk brakes and replaced them with V-brakes. I did everything that Formula and my local shop suggested, but nothing would stop the squeeling and vibration. I weigh about 235, which may be part of the problem, but the disks just didn't seem to stop the bike, especially on downhills. One other note, Rocky was very nice on the phone, but said I should work with my bike shop to solve the problems and my bike shop said I should talk to Rocky to solve the problems. I now have the bike working beautifully. It does everything well, it climbs well, it descends exceptionally well, it even gets up after serious crashes without any problems. If it ran this well out of the box, I would have given it a 5 rating, but because of the problems and the far too much whining that was required to get them fixed, I'm only giving it a 4.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daryl Godwin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hamilton, Ontario Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Rocky Mountain Hand built Frame , Front and Rear shocks, Shimano components, Race Face components, Wheels and Tires
Weaknesses:
Brakes a little noisy but very functional
Similar Products Used:
Tried seat posts instead of spending money for full suspension bike. Not satisfactory.
Bike Setup:
Factory Stock
Bottom Line:
I weigh in at a little over 230 lbs. and went to a full suspension bike to alleviate lower back pains . No sorel back since . I have had no major problems with this bicycle ( Just a couple of loose bolts which were easily fixed with an allen key and a little lock tite.) I have rode on some very rough terrain, ( rocks, sand, mud ) including a couple of courses set up for sanctioned mountain bike races and enduros. I have had a few good falls with no resulting damage to the bike. With a little regular maintenance, ( follow the suggestions in the owners manual. ) I can forsee no problems. An excellent machine. I have another Rocky Mountain bicycle ( Cardiac) and my son has two Rocky Mountain bikes ( Blizzard and Hammer) No problems with any of them.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross-Country Rider
from NY Date Reviewed: July 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood NJ
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The RIDE
Weaknesses:
faulty chainrings
Similar Products Used:
Trek 990 through multiple incarnations
Bike Setup:
original except for lower stem, XT shifters, Hayes hydraulic disks, Hugi hubs, Sun DS1-XC rims, Velociraptor tires, Giro Nisene sadddle
Bottom Line:
All my fears unfounded and all my expectations far exceeded! This bike is a truly awesome ride, it climbs better than my old 990 and feels every bit as solid and responsive. The bike does not bob at all if you keep your cadence up and it`s so beefy! At first it was unridable in technical terrain because of some problem with the chainrings (a bad batch I guess) but after my store replaced them there was no further problem. I don`t think the bike is perfect out of the box (`silly stem` and a few other things) but my store upgraded everything for 500 bucks (except the saddle which is my tried and true old one). If you don`t have the cash to upgrade right away you still get a terrific bike worth later investments.You are looking for a bike for the long backcountry rides and you want to do all the tricky stuff too - this is your bike! Don`t gripe - ride!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pedro
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston, Ma Date Reviewed: July 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
foxboro
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Its the Ride Geax Tyres Zokes
Weaknesses:
The Brakes Race face rings
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I have reviewed this product before...but am updating information on the brakes etc....From what I have been told from Formula.....these brakes need to be adjusted INTERNALLY (adjusting the internal dowel clockwise).....not at the brake levers.....After this is done then the brake levers can be adjusted if necessary......It seems to have helped..... I continued to be plagued by the chain dropping to the bottom bracket....not from shifting...but by just being in granny gear...Race Face has acknowledged that there may be spacer problems.....this only occurs going up something very steep...very technical....no fun... Although I have problems with this bike there is no doubt in my mind that once fixed ....it will be an outstanding trail bike
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Y.
a Weekend Warrior
from Charlottesville,VA Date Reviewed: July 10, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Marzocchi Fork, race face stuff, disk mounts, disk brakes
switched to carbon easton bar, ride on cables, g. fisher bar ends, atac carbon pedals, sachs pwr chain, ESP 9.0sl r.der., XTR fr. Der., old v-raptor tires.
Bottom Line:
The bike is very good, but was not equipped totally as I liked. I also raced at canaan, and the bike had no problems, except for busted spoke out back. Best ride of my life. As far as chain is not good is concerned, get a sachs power chain. I broke the XT rear der. in my first ride in GW nat. forest w/ bike. Tossed shimano, got ESP, lightened bike. Riser bars is not good for climbing, switched to easton CT2. Was not pleased w/ rear wheel build, knocked outa true too easy, first ride too. Love bike, may switch to hydraulic disks though. Formula rear disk loosened up, needed to blue locktight rear inner pad adjustment plug. Rear shock squeaks, might switch to cane creek. Bike is strong, I weigh over 200.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from Spokane Wash Date Reviewed: July 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Buck Creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Plush. Great climber seated. Nimble for it's weight. Predictable
Weaknesses:
Formula Discs
Similar Products Used:
Element T.O. All Cannondales
Bike Setup:
Swapped the seat for a WTB SST 98. Swapped rims to Mavic X517s and put XT V-brakes on it. Swapped tires to IRC Mythos front and rear
Bottom Line:
It nice to see this bike brings out such emotion in it's reviews. To be honest this is a great bike and I would not want my problems with the brakes to infulence my review. I haven't had much problem with chainring is not good and I regualrly check for burrs and keep the drivetrain clean and well lubed. The bike is a tad heavy but that is the trade off for having a bike that is tough as nails. I've seen a couple Rocky FS bikes have problems with the reas pivots coming loose so I took mine apart and made sure I had locktite in it.. Once again the only real problem I've had has been the brakes and if you look at the reviews of the brakes on this websight you will see not too many people are actually happy with the Formulas. All and all it's a pretty good bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross-Country Rider
from - Date Reviewed: June 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Nice riding frame Race face components
Weaknesses:
Undersprung fork Bit heavy (28 pounds) Mildly powerful brakes.
Bottom Line:
Hey, Chris. isn't it cool that the guy who agreed with you, our good buddy Hansy, has the exact same IP address as you? I mean what are the odds of that? This bike isn't without its flaws, I'd probably give it a 4 but to offset all of your posts I'll give it a 5.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Charlotte, NC Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Any and all in the Pisgah Mts.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The only strenght this bike has is it's frame
Weaknesses:
Components
Similar Products Used:
Kona,GT,K2
Bike Setup:
Factory Stock
Bottom Line:
First is was the chain rings that gave me more problems than having a snake in my sleeping bag. Now the list has grown with the disc brakes, a blown out front shock, and defective back rim. With all of that said, you would think that RM's QC department, if they even have one, really exists. As stated by others,I am not the only one experiencing these problems. Do not get me wrong, I do like this bike but the problems are extremely frustrating and persistant.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pedro
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston Date Reviewed: June 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The Frame The Ride
Weaknesses:
Formulas Brakes
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I rode this bike at 24 hrs of Cannan....On my first lap ...a bolt came out at the bottom pivot only to be schredded by the chain rings...had to walk the last third of course...Apparently Rocky forgot to put red locktite on bottom pivot bolts..The suspension also makes a lot of creaking noise but i have been told that this is due to the Fox Shock..and can be remedied....The brakes are out of their element when it comes to anything extreme...not NEARLY as strong as v-brakes..but they do work in all conditions..new brake pads are coming out soon...should help...The overall ride on this bike phenomenal!!! Front shock is great...rear Fox is good but seems to bottom out on big drops all too easy....Rocky has been very responsive with my questions....I have had some chain is not good but has not been a persistent problem...keep it lubed....If the brakes were better and the creaking stopped this bike would have no peers
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hans Emmzermann
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver, Colorado Date Reviewed: May 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Can say that I have just one
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good all around cross country bike
Weaknesses:
Chain Rings
Similar Products Used:
Kona, Dean, K2
Bike Setup:
Fac. stock
Bottom Line:
My review is only based on three months of riding my new Instinct. Depending on each individual riding style, the bike goes through a break in period as well as setting up the bike to my personal riding preferences ie, brakes, riser bar, pedals,etc. As far as the bike, I would say that the frame will hold up to any abuse that you can withstand. Very solid. As to Chris's comments in regards with the components, I would have to say that his problems are as mine. Chain became a severe issue as well as brake problems. I've got the brake problem resolved, but I still have to wait to see if the new rings will work. In the mean while I'm using another set up on the drivetrain for usage purpose. Got to be able to ride!! What a hasle it has been.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam
a Cross-Country Rider
from Penticton,B.C.,Canada Date Reviewed: May 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything in B.C.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Beautifully constructed, legendary Rocky quality, well-spec'd,climbs as well as my old Kona Kula, great descender, awesome brakes, plush suspension, a beauty to behold.
Weaknesses:
None. Buy this bike. Guys like Chris should go to a reputable Rocky dealer and deal with whatever problems he's got.This bike is tough, reliable,etc.,etc. Buy one. You'll be ecstatic.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Element, Trek,etc.
Bike Setup:
Completely stock, with my well-maintained Race Face 9-speed rings. Except for my goat mojo.
Bottom Line:
I think that guys like Chris need to look theirselves in the mirror and figure out why they can't solve a simple problem instead of slighting a great bike maker, an excellent all round high end bike, and upsetting people who ride what they love. Go to your Rocky dealer, get your rings changed, keep them clean, and ride, not whine! If anyone has any questions at all about what the Instinct is really like feel free to e-mail me. This bike is even better than my beloved Bianchi Superleggere road bike. Truly the best bike I have ever thrown a leg across. Period. Now go and buy one, move to B.C. and ride!P.S. It is interesting that Race Face told me that they have offered to replace Chris' rings with an updated version. Keep up the good work, Rocky and Race Face! Cheers and stay upright. Liam. Deserving of 5 tubes of Prep H.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Rice
a Racer
from Manitoba Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This rig rocks, chris has no idea how to ride, like maxime sais, GET OUT AND RIDE!!!!!!!!This rig can handle anything, rides well, is fairly light. This bike goes smoothly downhill, and climbs extremely well. If you are thinking about this bike, you should buy it, because it is flawless. If you scrared about the discs, dont be because after a few rides, the work well.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maxime Imbert
a Racer
from ottawa Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
none, absolutely nothing
Similar Products Used:
klein mantra race, element race, y22,
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this bike is the perfect bike, i think that chris is totally unable to shift gears, and ride. He does not know waht he talks about, he's just one of those people who cries about everything, GET OUT AND RIDE!!!!!!!!anyways, this bike is a perfect cross country racing bike. It handles greeat and rides extremely well. This bike is well priced, so if this is the bike you want, by all means go out and buy it!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Xavier
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: May 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
geometry, components
Similar Products Used:
most production f/s
Bottom Line:
I own 2 Rocky Mountain bikes, a 98 Blizard and a 99 Cardiac. I run the Blizzard off road and commute to work with the Cardiac. I absolutely love both of these bikes and intend to purchase a full suspension Instinct when I can scrape the cash together. In regards to the review written by Chris, who is not happy with the components of his bike, I would also recommend having your bike shop get in touch with Race Face to have them replace the chainrings, because the chainsuck WAS a problem caused by the compatability of the new 9sp drive and the spacing of the cogs on the rings. I have a friend with a 99 Kona bike and he had the same problem with chain is not good until the dealer he purchased it from replaced the rings. When you replace the rings make sure that your chain is also compatible with the new set up. I don't understand why your shop wasn't able to figure this out for you, unless you bought the bike on-line. Our local shop in Portland, FAT TIRE FARM, specializes in Canadian bikes, Rocky & Kona, and do an awesome job in customer service & repairs. If you want to unload the bike send me an e-mail to rkcz.com, I'll figure it out!Better luck man!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Charlotte, N.C Date Reviewed: May 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame
Weaknesses:
Components
Similar Products Used:
Comparable full suspension bikes
Bike Setup:
Factory stock
Bottom Line:
Maixme imbert sounds like he's hurt by my comments. Sorry little boy but I'm entitled to make an opinion as anyone else. You should refrain from using foul language. As far as the maintenance issue is concerned, I've been riding bikes most of my life and I can assure you that this is not the issue. This bike has spent more time in the shop than on the trail. My gripe is that I bought a high-end bike with specific componentry that does not work. The solution Rocky Mountain offered was to replace the componentry with lower quality components that work but are not what I purchased. I was far from satisfied with Rocky Mountains customer service. I made several phone calls to Rocky Mountain to try and resolve this issue, but they could not even offer me the courtesy to return my calls. This has gone on for quite a while, encompassing a lot of time that could have otherwise been spent on the trail had they provided me with the bike I believed to be buying.
As you know each bike is custom built so while I believe that the others may not be experiencing the same problems, my problems are very 'real'.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from West Springfield,MA Date Reviewed: May 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mount Tom
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Don't know where to start - best all around bike I have ever ridden.
Weaknesses:
Original Raceface chainring set on bike.
Similar Products Used:
Several other similarly priced FS bikes.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is fantastic but, I want to comment on what Chris from Charlotte said. He may not be as far off base as everyone thinks.My bike had some chain is not good on the first ride and after about 130 hard miles it got worse. The chain dropped right off the granny gear into the frame under power and would skip on the middle chainring under power. This did on technical steep climbs.My problem eneded up being with the Raceface 9 sp chainring set. I caught wind of similar problems on MTBR in the chainring section. I called Raceface direct and they told me that the 9 sp chainring set had undergone some improvements since the original issue. They sent me out a new set of rings and all is awesome again.Chris - I suspect you may have a similar problem. Try a call to Raceface and get some new rings. It's a shame you aren't happy with your bike because it kicks tail.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maixme imbert
a Cross-Country Rider
from ottawa ontario Date Reviewed: May 7, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
quality, brakes, components
Weaknesses:
nada this bike kicks @$$
Similar Products Used:
klein mantra race trek y 22
Bike Setup:
stock setup
Bottom Line:
This bike is a wicked ride, it awesome By the way, Chris does not know what the he is talking about. He is one of those city slickers who'se knickname is Yuppy and hardly rides or maintains his bike. If you get god damn chainsuck, you dumb schmuck, you get a device to fix it. Obviously, if you can own such a bike, you should be able to get such a device. As a last thing, quit complaining and writing on this site to trash a bike that is much better than you think it is worth, because to me, you seem to spend more time writing on a computer than on the trail with your bike. The rest of you, CHILLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross-Country Rider
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: May 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
can you say Cannonball?
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bike Setup:
Insinct frame, Z2, full XT kit
Bottom Line:
This is my first FS, and its been a blast. My Ti hardtail has been demoted to pulling a Burley trailer. It seems like I'm riding a different bike than Chris below. Then again, I am. I opted for a frame and XT kit. Going to 9 speed, the big S seemed like the best bet, and I didn't trust the formula brakes. The XT drivetrain has been flawless, and it's hard to beat the V's, so why try?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Charlotte Date Reviewed: April 30, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame and only the frame
Weaknesses:
Poor component selection on the drive side.
Similar Products Used:
Various full suspension bikes.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Why is there not a selection for no chili's?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam
a Cross-Country Rider
from Penticton,B.C.,Canada Date Reviewed: April 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The one to the beer and wine store after a great ride on my great bike.
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Hello sports fans, this is an update on my previous review. I don't know why but Chris and I don't seem to own the same bike. Either do any of the other happy reviewers on this page. I have ridden the hell out of the bike over the last 30 days and have had none of the problems Chris has complained about. Perhaps a bit of maintenance, i.e.cleaning of your brakes on a regular basis would alleviate some of your problems. Also, as far as chainsuck, maybe you don't shift too smoothly to begin with. I tell you, I have subjected the Instinct to everything from singletrack to mud, rocks, road, etc., etc. and just love it. It takes the pain out of my cranky lower back and does everything well. Rocky has built an excellent all-round bike that excels under any conditions you want to throw at it. Period. So look after it and it will keep you happy.
Weaknesses:
Sensitive to poor reviews from people who probably don't do enough if any maintenance.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Element, Treks,etc.
Bike Setup:
Stock, well-maintained and cleaned. And I have smooth technique so I don't have to bleet about chainsuck.
Bottom Line:
A great, do everything well bike. Deserving of 5 flaming habeneros. Just remember, if you're eating chilis, if it is hot going down, get out the garden hose tomorrow morning. And the Prep H.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Charlotte, N.C. Date Reviewed: April 22, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
A good frame setup that utilizes all of its innovations.
Weaknesses:
Rocky Mountains inability to produce a final product that works.
Similar Products Used:
Most high end full supension bikes.
Bike Setup:
Factory Stock
Bottom Line:
If you want a bike that constantly chain is not good, that comes right out of the box, this is the bike for you. Including major brake problems that arose only after two months, you better hope that you are a great bike mechanic or have a little extra cash when the warranty runs out. I have had nothing but problems with this bike from day one. On top of poor customer relations from the manufacture, I've practically been left with an expensive pile of aluminum that will not perform as one would expect from such a high end bike. More to come! Trust me.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta Date Reviewed: April 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great allround bike, suspension works and has good adjustability, rides tight and goes where you point it.
Weaknesses:
Nothing really, make sure you get the high pressure pump with it, if you can find one of these bikes at all !
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Diamond Back..
Bike Setup:
Stock standard from the factory, got it from Speedgoat - are these people friendly or what ? I think its the best purchase experience I have had for a long, long time....
Bottom Line:
Smooth, tight and the what mountain biking is all about. Happy I was able to get one. A true dream for any ex Moto Cross rider to throw thier leg over..
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam
a Cross-Country Rider
from Penticton, B.C., Canada Date Reviewed: March 30, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Just got the Instinct on March 23. I have only had the chance to ride it once in the dirt but couldn't believe how well it does everything from climbing to blasting down singletrack.
Weaknesses:
It makes me not want to go to work any more.
Bottom Line:
If you're an old, injured, arthritic ex-dirt biker like me with a back that complains too much, trade in your hard-tail (in my case a Kona Kula, which I loved but there is no comparison in ride quality) and treat yourself to a B.C.-made bike that will give you a new reason to ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Schnozz
a racer
from Halifax, Canada Date Reviewed: March 7, 1999
Bottom Line:
Well got to try my new toy. Fist day out I took it to one of our most technical trails(Wrandee's) to really break it in. This would let me know right from the start if I made a good buy or not as well as scarring the bike enough that returning it was not an option. My first impressions are pretty good. The bike handles very well. At first I thought the cable actuated discs didn't have much stopping power but after the new disc brake pads were broken in it stopped like a dream, weather it was dry, wet or muddy(with a little squeal). The Bomber z2 provided me with good front shock absorbtion and the Fox float Vanilla R in the rear kept the rear in check. Going up the hills, it felt a lot like my hartail (also Rocky Mountain) except that you have to keep a good eye on your front end or it will come off the ground. This is probably because I'm not used to a riser bar. Overall a really good bike. If you want to race xc with full suspension it should definitly be on your list of bikes to check out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a cross-country rider
from MA Date Reviewed: March 6, 1999
Bottom Line:
The bike is awesome. Climbs almost as good as my hardtail yet is incredibly plush. This is what a cross country bike should be. Just enough travel, good components and DISCS. Only had a few rides, but absolutely love the bike so far.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phunky Joe
a weekend warrior
from Victoria, B.C. Date Reviewed: January 22, 1999
Bottom Line:
Yah, me and the boys were out at the dump again last night. Totally different planet at night. The Instinct is the same as the Element, just different components including Formula discs. I test rode the Element about a week ago and loved it. It handles everything very well. It shines in the technical bumpy, rocky sections and especially downhill. Rode my friend's Mantra a couple of weeks ago and loved it too, but it's not as good I don't think as an all around cross-country design like the Element/Instinct. The Instinct climbs very well, almost as good as the Mantra although it's very hard to tell right now with all the mud. I've been riding a Schwinn Sweet-Spot for the last couple of years and have liked it too, but when it comes to one after another bump/root/log etc. the Instinct handles it much better. You don't get the bike acting like an accordian such as the ride on the other bikes. The wheelbase stays pretty much the same. The other bikes tend to kick up in the rear, especially on drops and succesive hits. My first ride last night was a good one, but the position wasn't great. I just swithched to a shorter stem and changed the position of the riser bars and I'm sure it will be a better ride next time. This bike is well worth the money. Apart from a slightly incorrect fit, which is easily remedied the ride was excellent. I will post another review after a few more rides with HughJass and the Assetts.
Overall Rating:
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