Submitted by
Gus Kuster
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami, FL Date Reviewed: April 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Oleta River Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Bell Cycle's
Strengths:
: weight, suspension design, simplicity.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
GT i-drive team
Bike Setup:
full XTR, Mavic crossMax
Bottom Line:
have owned this bike for about 3 months and like it better every time I ride. It climbs great, handles well and is great going down the other side. You can't go wrong by purchasing a Superlight. Four inches of suspension at 23 pounds says it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rusty
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anderson Truck trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Lightness, Comfort, everything
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Litespeed Obed, GT and some other hardtails
Bike Setup:
everything
Bottom Line:
This bike is sick, it seems that everyone is in agreement with the exception of a few people. This is my first full suspension bike and I was skeptical of loosing efficiency, climbing agility and weight gain. This bike shattered all those and any other myths of why you shouldn't get a full suspension bike. The first day I got this bike we went out to Noble Creek Canyon which has some rocky technical trails and this bike out-performed any bike I had ever riden.
My suggestion if you don't already have one and are thinking about purchasing one, quit sitting around and go get one even if you have to rob the QuickyMart or an old lady.
I only wish they had more chilis to give out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Truckee, Calif Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse, Reno NV
Strengths:
Nice Anodization/color, great specs all the way around, light and smooth.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Other full suspension xc bikes
Bike Setup:
XTR/LX mix, SRAM, SID 100s
Bottom Line:
Best bike I've ever had...well worth the price. Very smooth, light and fast bike! The measurement specs are perfect... I bought the frame to replace my Fisher which cracked... just moved parts over from that and only had to replace bottom bracket, front derailler(xtr) and cables. This bike is for riders who want a serious ride without foolin around with over complicated faddish suspension systems out there. Santa Cruz has the best bike in this catagory right now in my opinion.
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Submitted by
Funky
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: May 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim, up and down
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
contacts, baby, contacts...
Strengths:
Single, smooth, sexy pivot. Great components.
Weaknesses:
No complaints, except make sure the pivot stays tight - mine loosened up on the last couple of rides - nothing a little loctite won't fix.
Similar Products Used:
Jekyll w/lefty, various hardtails.
Bike Setup:
XL Frame, Santa Cruz's XTR disc kit - Full XTR, Magura Discs, swapped out the Hutchinson tires for some bigger, grippier Conti's. Psylo Race Fork.
Bottom Line:
I'm blown away by this bike. Descends with the downhillers and climbs with the hardtails. The 5" travel on the Psylo combined with the rear travel and discs give me so much confidence on the downhills. I thought I was going to have to reduce the front travel at first - a little wheelie problem on climbs - but then started to lockout the rear on the hills, problem solved. Bonus, the lockout lever is right under the top tube. Happy with the forks so far, not as smooth as Marzocchi's but I feel it's worth the weight trade-off, and gobs of travel. My setup weighs about 27lbs thanks to the fork and discs, still pretty good...never imagined I'd get this much performace and travel from so little weight.
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Submitted by
Charlie
a Cross Country Rider
from Tempe, AZ Date Reviewed: February 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Adventure Bicycle, Mesa AZ
Strengths:
Great handling, light weight, great suspencion action, low mainanence pivot.
Weaknesses:
none.
Similar Products Used:
1996 Heckler. Had it for 4 years but it got stolen from my garage.
Great bike! My Heckler served me well for 3.5 years. But I am now very happy with the Superlight. Seems as sturdy as the Heckler but lighter (I've got a lighter fork also). Great ride and a great value.
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Submitted by
Jas
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, Ca. Date Reviewed: February 18, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
ridability, weight, green anodizing, simplicity.
Weaknesses:
Bent the derail hanger,now I must replace swingarm-$300. less expensive solution needed.
SID, XTR, RACEFACE, Easton, Thomson, mavic, real, fox, ritchey, wtb, chris king
Bottom Line:
Super fun ride and light wieght makes big smiles. I throw a lot at the bike and it eats up all but the big hits. With 4 inches of travel I expect to limit time to time. I would buy the same bike if I had to do it again. Only gripe is the derailure hanger not being replacable. I bent the sh*t on a thumb thick twig in derailure and now look at $300 to remidy. My fault, ya, but this can happen at any time to anyone. The Redwoods are fighting back!
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Submitted by
VooDoo Child
a Racer
from TN Date Reviewed: January 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1119.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist Catalog
Strengths:
1) Quality of construction; 2) Design; 3) Weight; and 4) Price.
Weaknesses:
Design is such that shouldering the bike is difficult to impossible.
2000 Sid XC fork; xt and xtr components; Dean titanium seatpost.
Bottom Line:
I have gone from hardtail to softtail and now to full suspension over the last two years. Well, actually, I still have the hardtail but doubt it will be getting to much use. The Superlight is so light, and its suspension is so efficient, that it is almost always a superior choice over a hardtail. I purchases just the frame and built it up with a sensible mix of components. I haven't weighed it yet, but it probably weighs around 24.5 pounds with Panaracer Fire 2.1s and could lose considerable weight with a pair of ultra-light tires. The rear suspension helps in both climbing and descending. The bikes single-track handling suits me just right--not too twitchy but quick in tight situations. I will post again after I have some serious time on the bike.
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Submitted by
Jet
a Weekend Warrior
from townsville, n.q., Australia Date Reviewed: December 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
technical and fun
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
frame local shop
Strengths:
This is an update on previous review. With psylo race now handles unbelieveably.
Weaknesses:
To some extent, cost.
Similar Products Used:
see previous review
Bike Setup:
see previous review
Bottom Line:
I have put rockshox psylo race forks, set to 125mm travel so in some ways this is a fork review. The bike is now unbelieveable. The suspension balance is incredible. The bike now leans stable and easy and still steers at low speeds. I am proper pedaller ( ie I spin NOT push the pedals) so the "problem" of wheel flop and low speed steering weight, ISN'T. I am a born cynic but still finish a ride with a huge smile of pure elation with this bike setup. There was a problem with the Pslyo's which I will report on if mtbrreview gets the forks into the reviews, however WARNING If you get these forks or perhaps any pure damping forks, if the bottom damping adjuster is hard to move , DON"T MOVE IT!!!!!! There is a problem with the manufacture of the bottom retaining bolt being too long and jaming against the nylon adjusting shaft. Bottom line completely superb and for the first time in 13 years of mountain bike riding I have NO desire for any other bike NOR components. WOW!!!
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Submitted by
Jet
a Weekend Warrior
from Townsville NQ Australia Date Reviewed: October 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
technical fun anywhere
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
frame at local shop
Strengths:
reasonable light, excellent looks ( not really important to me), very good handling, very well designed suspension, good stand over height, simple and elegant like the energy/mass conversion equation, easy to fit MOST parts( front deraillier EXCLUDED and if it is anything like the heckler I had for four years prior and have now given to my girlfriend ( always get tall girlfriends so you can give them your good bikes when you gat a new one)RELIABLE
Weaknesses:
pedal/chainring clearance is much worse. Chainring clearance mainly due to the stupid 44tooth ring , that's shimano's fault cause they won't make a 40/30/22 set for real trail riders. Front derailler is difficult to mount and adjust cause of swing arm proximity but better than old heckler, Does NOT handle like the old heckler ( unfortunately) a steering bike not a leaning bike ( not a fault as such but I bought the bike specifically cause i loved the heckler feel).
Similar Products Used:
I own at present A santa Cruz heckler(1996), and a KHS Alite 4000 that I built up for XC raceing , I raced a Santacruz super8 last year, And rode the current model super8 ( a much improved beast over 99 model) Plus LOTS of others.
Bike Setup:
Superlight frame 20", Rolf dolomite disc wheels, shimano XT discs, XT splines B/B, Selle italia flight saddle, easton monkeylight lowrise bars, WTB headsset, 636 pedal most of the time and 747 when raceing, XT cranks, Synchros Ti seatpost, 9 speed xt 11/34 cassette, XTR gearchanges, AMe grips( wired),Intense XC 2.2 (60) front tyre Michlen Exper 2.0 rear, XT front deraillier , SID SL and Judy race for race and general riding ( Psylo race soon as available).
Bottom Line:
This bike handles magnificiently If your are a steerer. If you are a leaner (like me) then it only handles very very well. Even on a flite saddle 8 hour rides in tough country are comfortable ( you know what I mean). Suspension ( fox rc air) is easily and effectively adjustable and reliable. Dont be a macho idiot and please make sure you put a boot or covering on the shock shaft so it will last. Interesting note : the old heckler had a habbit of locking out the suspension to some extent and so did the superlight UNTIL I put the disc brakes on . I had speculated that the higher reverse leverage of the brake reaction point would reduc the lockout AND IT DOES!!!!!!! It is now close to a full isolated suspension under braking ie. stuff all lockout. I have a separate superb hardtail for XC raceing BUT ONLY USE IT OVER THE SUPERLIGHT ON SMOOTH COURSES OR PONY EXPRESSES. If yo are not well off enough to get the superlight, get the heckler. It is as reliable and handles better if you are a leaner , just a little heavier.
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Submitted by
bob
a Cross Country Rider
from boulder,co Date Reviewed: August 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
white ranch
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
weight,looks,anodized finish(durable)I think their customer service is good,although others seem to had problems.
Weaknesses:
price,but its worth every penny.
Similar Products Used:
all
Bike Setup:
xtr,etc...nokian dh fat hakka tires(heavy.but the best tires ive ever ridden)
Bottom Line:
After two leadville 100's,and 15 months of abuse and neglect,I love my superlight even more.No flex problems w/180 lb rider.the ride is instinctive,balanced,and downhills are a blast!anodized coating is cool and tough.The only downer is the wait to get one due to too many orders/slow production.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Victor B
a Weekend Warrior
from Van Nuys, California Date Reviewed: August 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Cabarello Trail Head, Reseda
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lives up to its name "Superlight". Climbs with ease with or without the Fox shock locked out. Superior build quality and anodized finish. Unique on the trail.
Weaknesses:
None with the exception of a pivot squeak after getting wet.
Similar Products Used:
Owned a GT LTS 3000, tried a S-Works FSR XC, Jeckyll, Intense Tracer, GT I-Drive 1500, Gary Fisher Sugar.
Bike Setup:
XTR Cranks, Derailleurs and shifters. Avid Arch Rival brakes. Easton Carbon post and Monkey Lite bare. Titec stem. Bontranger rims, Fox Float RC shock, Manitou Mars "C" fork, Specialized Body Geometry Seat.
Bottom Line:
So much better than my GT LTS it's Indescribable. Of course, it cost triple the price so it should be better. My bike weighs 25 Pounds, a little heavier than I wanted but 8 pounds less than my last bike. It climbs with ease but I have to keep more body weight on the front end or it wants to wheelie. The biggest surprise is how it descends. Superfast and easy to place on your desired line, especially on tight single track. Tremendous brakes combined with lightweight means I can pedal deeper into the most wicked corners. This bike makes me push my personal limits to the next level. I won't need a new bike for a long long time. All the bikes I tried were excellent, but the Santa Cruz offered the best combination of light- weight, simplicity, high quality components, and exclusivity. The price wasn't the cheapest nor the most expensive. If you're not ready to drop $3200 on a bike, look elsewhere. But if you've been riding an "entry level" FS bike for a while (like I was) and you're ready to graduate to something race ready, the Santa Cruz SuperLight is worth your consideration. It's awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave dodd
a Cross Country Rider
from cheshire, england Date Reviewed: August 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
peak district national park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Weighing in at 23.5lbs this is the best bike I've ever ridden. The lack of weight, in conjunction with the rigidity of the back end makes virtually all terrain a joy to ride. Especially bumpy climbs. With being a single pivot design the maintenance is very low, plus it makes it a very quiet bike. I also like the anodised finish, which makes it very difficult to scratch as well as making it look less nickable!!!
Weaknesses:
Only problem I've had is an occasional squeak from the rear end which is sorted with a good clean, and a front light end, but this probably means I need a longer stem.
Similar Products Used:
GT RTS-2, STS-1, STS1000DS and XCR1000 all of which were replaced under warranty when the frames cracked. Especially the XCR.
Bike Setup:
Superlight medium frame with Cane Creek AD10 shock (what a revelation), Pace RC36 Evo Pro forks, XTR groupset with a Cook Bros chainset, Chris King wheelset, Bontrager straight bar plus bar ends and an x-lite seatpost.
Bottom Line:
After thinking I was going to be on GT's for the rest of my life, this bike has transformed my riding. I was getting racked off with expensive bikes sat in the shop being fixed all the time. Not happened once since getting the superlight. It is a delight to ride, quite inconspicuous to any potential thieves, and a brilliant all round all day bike. There can be nothing better. Well done Santa Cruz.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
iRVIN sEVILLA
a Weekend Warrior
from sAN fRANCISCO, CA Date Reviewed: July 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
El Corte de Madera
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Very easy to maneuver, especially on steep downhill trails. Very fast on long fire roads. Quick and nimble on tight singletrack trails. Even without the lock out rear shock it doesn't bob on hard pedaling.
Weaknesses:
Need good brakes to slow you down...
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale super Vee
Bike Setup:
Full XTR (9-speed), Syncros (stem, seatpost, skewers and headset), LP Carbon riser bars, Hayes disc brakes, King disco-tech hubs, WTB veloceraptor tires, SID XC front shock, Rockshox Air float rear.
Bottom Line:
It's worth it...all $4,500.00 invested. I used to be a cannondale fan til I test rode a Santa Cruz Heckler. 2 weeks later, sold the Super Vee and bought a Super Light. Now I'm able to conquer trails with ease and confidence that I never could with a Cannondale. A sure head turner too, so watchout...be ready to thank everyone's praise for having a nice bike...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Barnes
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, Co Date Reviewed: July 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
wilson mesa trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Ease of use, this bike must have been designed by someone with a good understaning of what it means to be "one" with the trail.
Weaknesses:
The fact that you will never experience chain suck again. I just love chain susk and miss it so much.
Similar Products Used:
I made the correct choice the first time.
Bike Setup:
CrossMax with Huthinson python gold and green tubes."99 sid 80mm, Full XTR, chris king HS, syncross stem, titec ti flat bars,raceface xyz post,time plasic case atb pedals
Bottom Line:
At 25 pounds, this bike is unreal. The frame is a XL. And fits me very well at 6'2". with a 120mm stem. The bike is very easy to ride because it tells you so well where its center is. I feel so confident on this bike. It begs you to make new lines on things you have ridden many times. This bike is really hitting the target, thats the fun target.I am faster and my smile is wider, and I thank Santa Cruz for making this bike. And congratulate the young lady who won the UCI Worlds in sierra Nevada spain, On a Santa Cruz.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from Berkshire,UK Date Reviewed: June 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
How long have you got? It takes anything you throw at it, it's super-plush at the back but zero flex and rides like a dream in single track - I'm never going back to hard-tails. Bearings are superb - 12 months riding in everything from gloopy mud to sand, coupled with jet washing (naughty!) and they're as perfect as the day I bought the bike.
Weaknesses:
None whatsoever - even the shock has worked perfectly with zero maintanance!
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar 1 & 2
Bike Setup:
Raceface bars & chain set, Pace RC38 Airforce (just breaking her in, was Marzochi Z2 Bams),
Bottom Line:
This is without a doubt the best I have ever ridden - it looks the business and rides the business! Its great for cross country with a hint of downhill - I've not raced it (getting too old for all that) but I'm sure it can take on the hard tails and short travel types - it certainly does on fun rides, or would if I was a bit fitter
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
m j
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: April 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Demo Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light, light, light - handles, handles, handles
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Spclzd FSR XC Pro
Bike Setup:
FUll XTR, Marz Z2 X-fly (great fork -much easier to dial in than a SID), Avid Arch 40's
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I'm 6'2" 210lbs and ride the XL frame -Santa Cruz Does a very nice job specing out this bike Full XTR - carbon post- carbon bar - nice wheelset. Climbs well w/ no noticeable bob in lower chain rings. I use the shock lockout only for long uphills or on the road. Very predictable smooth handling w/80mm fork. CHECK OUT all the other reviews everyonr who has this bike loves it. You really can't go wrong. While it is expensive you are getting alot for your money--If XTR is too much $ --- buy a superlight X and upgrade over time
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Racer
from TN Date Reviewed: February 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fontana Village, NC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Lightweight, Lateral Stiffness, Simplicity, High swing arm so no chain slap, Fox shock w/lock out, Distinctive looks.
Weaknesses:
Cable routing isn't the greatest.
Similar Products Used:
Gt Lts,Klein Mantra Carbon,KHS Softail.
Bike Setup:
Black powder coated frame,Sid 100,xtr,Sun RPM,Monkey lite riser.
Bottom Line:
In my opinion this is the best full suspension frame made for the terrain that I usually ride. It climbs like a goat,accelerates out of turns very well,handles roots and rocks with ease,no flex,no bobbing,lock out the rear shock and ride the road to my favorite trail,can't wait to race this puppy......I could go on for a while. It comes down to this, I could have spent twice as much money on a frame and not got half as much performance. 5 flamers for this boy! I will post another review after I spend more time on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry G
a Weekend Warrior
from San Mateo, CA Date Reviewed: February 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Flume
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light,Plush,no bobbing,Looks cool,handles great
Weaknesses:
honestly none in the year I have been riding it, the top tube could be a little longer.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Klien Mantra numerous hardtails
Bike Setup:
Med superlight grey anno. Sid 100,Easton carbon post & bar's,lots of light stuff.
Bottom Line:
I have been riding this bike for over a year now, I am very impressed with the quality of workmanship and the quality of the ride. I am always looking at the new bikes that come out and I have never entertained the thought of riding another bike, even with money not an issue. Bottom line is that this bike handles great, I have both the fox vinilla and the cane creek shock, I like the fox better but with the cane creek I get 1/2 inch more travel. My bike comes in at 23 lbs. with a 4 inch travel front fork ! This bike is plush and is the perfect combination between a XC race bike and a freeride bike. I love it !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SnakeBoy
a Cross Country Rider
from Brisbane, Qld, Australia Date Reviewed: February 7, 2000
Only hardtails - Merlin FatTi, Trek 8900, Giant MCM-1
Bike Setup:
Bomber Z2-Atom 80 forks; King headset; XTR sifters, brakes, rear derailleur, casette; XT 00 cranks, bb, front derailleur; Bontrager Race Lite wheels; Time ATAC pedals; Easton Monkey Bars, EA70 stem, CT2 seatpost; ODI lock-on grips; SSM Bontrager Palhuber saddle;
Bottom Line:
I did a lot of research before buying this bike - magazines, mtbr.com, emailing & talking to people. I've got to say that I'm completely satisfied with the result. This bike rocks! I've only ridden it for about 7 hours so far, but the ride is awesome. After riding one of these, it would be real hard getting back on a hardtail - it's light, it doesn't bob going up hills, and it smokes on the way down. Anyone looking for a high performance, all round cross country bike should look no further than one of these!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary
a Weekend Warrior
from Foothill Ranch, CA Date Reviewed: January 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any Orange County single track
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Price compared to other high end frames. Light weight frame ( less than 5 lbs for small size). Anodized finish and Laser engraving. Very scratch resistant plus the logo won't come off like powder coating or decals. Rear Shock lockout option. Nice to have although you probably won't need it. Short top tube (21.5" small frame) for guys like me (5'7"). Chainstay above chainline (no chainstay clanking on downhills).
Weaknesses:
This is a minor point but the position of the rear shock on the top tube makes some bike rack mounting difficult without an extension bar. Same problem mounting it on a bike stand since you must mount it by the seatpost which is not as stable as a top tube mounting (especially when you have a carbon seatpost). Plus you have to remove your seatbag everytime.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper M2, Stumpjumper FSR-XC
Bike Setup:
XTR brakes and rear derailler XT front derailler (required for RaceFace chainrings) RaceFace LP Next crank/rings RaceFace titanium BB RaceFace stem Chris King headset/hubs Bontranger rims IRC Mythos tires (2.1 front, 1.9 rear) Terry TI Race saddle Shimano 434 pedals SID SL fork Easton CT2 Monkey Lite Lo Rise bar Easton CT2 seatpost Salsa titanium skewers Spin Skins tire liners ( I hate thorn flats).
Bottom Line:
Fully loaded this bike weighs about 23 lbs. Coming from riding mostly on my M2 hardtail I was apprehensive about buying another full suspension bike (expensive one at that) without trying it first. My selection was based on three factors. First, my experience with the FSR-XC which was definitely better than my M2 going downhill but a little worse going uphill (slight pedal induced bobbing). Secondly, after studying the dimensions of the SC SL (Top tube length, standover height, BB height) I decided it was a good fit. Third, the January review in Mountain Bike Action convinced me it was a good risk. After going through the usual tweaks and adjustments required for any new bike(i.e. rear derailler adjustment, needed longer stem, ocassional chain suck),I am very comfortable with the bike. Coming from a flat bar/bar ends background, it took me a couple rides to get used to the lo rise monkey bars especially on climbs. I missed the bar ends on steep climbs especially since the lighter SC SL front end can unweight very easily so I had to lean forward more and the shorter top tube and short stem made me feel a little cramped. Moving the seat back and installing a longer stem fixed this problem. Now I don't miss the bar ends any more. This bike can climb like a mountain goat (I've never locked out the rear shock) and going downhill...what more can I say. Pure ecstasy. The only other sound you hear on a long downhill, besides my sounds of glee, is the familiar buzzing sound of a Chris King rear hub. I think this bike is a excellent choice for a rider making the transition from hard tail to full suspension. No mushiness at all when transitioning out of the saddle. It's as light as a hardtail, climbs better on rocky climbs, and on bumpy downhills doesn't chain clank or give you tennis elbow or butt.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent
a Racer
from Destin, FL, USA Date Reviewed: January 15, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light...Light...Light Economical - the bike should cost almost twice what you pay. Fast Stiff - as stiff as my hard tail. Anodized Finish & Laser Engraving. Best Designed Suspension System Available.. Dosen't Bob. Swing arm is ellevated so chainsuck won't mess up the bike. Climbs like a goat. Hand Crafted.
Weaknesses:
haaaaaaa heeeeeee ... you're joking right?
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, Easton CT2 Bars and Post, ChrisKing hubs, Valiant Rims. Coustom Fork built with Enguland Air.
Bottom Line:
Regardless of other reviews... this is ranked as the best FS XC bike by many people. The bike is extremly stiff, lightweight, and can be configured for any ride you want. If you are serious about riding, then i would recomend this bike. It's a great economical value and can be configured to be in the 22.5 lbs range if your smart about it. The suspension is the flagship of what all systesms should be measured to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tommaso Gomez
a Cross Country Rider
from 17 Green Hill Rd. Date Reviewed: January 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hermosa Creek, CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This bike is incredibly stiff laterally and is very plush. Although it does have a lockout, on the Float RC, it climbs so efficiantly that I never have to use it. The craftsmanship of the frame is superb. 5 lb.!!!
Weaknesses:
Its to sweet looking to ride. I hope I never scratch it!
Similar Products Used:
Dekerf Team ST, Rocky Mountain Elemen TO, Specialized FSR XC
Bike Setup:
Race Face, Sram 9.0SL, Manitou SX Ti
Bottom Line:
4.9lb frame w/ Float RC, superstiff, climbs like a banshee, incredible descender, sweet anodized paint finish, gauranteed to kick any FSR ass.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adrian Palmer
a Cross-Country Rider
from Pinetop, AZ Date Reviewed: January 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Los Burros (AZ), Mekenzie (OR)
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Lite only 23.25!! (med frame) Ano Blue is sweet The geometry makes the best xc bike out there Simple pivot less maintance
Weaknesses:
None... except I had to wait one year to save up to buy the bike of my dreams
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR's Schwinn 4 Banger Kona Rocky MT element to DeKerf Moots Mt Cycle ect ect nothing is or comes close to the SC Superlite.
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi ZX 2 fly... this fork ROCKS!! Race Face LP Next cranks/rings 9 spd Race Face Seat Post XYO and System CT2 bar and LP braid jrs ends CK headset Mavic X Max wheel set... these are sweet too!! Race Face CrMo BB 858 SPD's Selle Itallia Gel Saddle You get the idea... cost means nothing
Bottom Line:
So its been about 3 weeks and I am in love with my SC Superlite. I had some Bontrager RE1 pedals but after fallin over still locked in about 10x I took em back and now ride on the new 858's which are a 1000x better. I rode some Ritchy pedals for 5 yrs and I only fell over once still locked in when trying to learn how to ride clipless, so take it from me and stay away from the RE'1's, they are way too inconsistant with lockin in and gettin out.Other than that I have put nearly 100miles on my new ride... from smooth single track, sand, technical stuff, and broken rock. I live in AZ now and dont ride much in the rain like my old home... Portland,OR. So that means only sun and no rain or mud. I did ride in snow up on MT Baldy here in AZ... FUN!! So this bike can do it all .... climb up sick steeps and decend like nothing else. The rear suspension never pogos it just keeps you glued to the trail. It loves to fly fast on the down hills and it feels better when you let her run wide open. I rode a MB1 with an M4 fork and never thought I would convert to FS... I used to think that all FS bikes would never be as good as my faithful hardtail. Well I am never goin back!! Its 3 lbs lighter than that old piece of steel.... I dont have to lower my saddle on really steep loose rocky stuff cause I can get back enough not to feel like I am going to endo. On really steep climbs I just sit and power up... the bike never looses traction. Basically I only cry when I put new scratches on it. I you buy the XT or the XTR with a ZX2 Fly shock you wont have any regrets. Oh, I have never ridin on a better sock then the ZX2... except the ZX1 which has 4 in/ 100mm of travel. Its too much for the front end of my setup, around here 3in/ 80mm is enough. So the Bottom Line is every penny you fork out will be paid back 10 fold!! It was definitly worth the 1 yr wait. Oh if you live here in AZ go to Adventure Bicycle.... they are the best shop in the valley if not the state. It took them 1.5 weeks to put together my custom bike and their customer service is top notch. Unlike some shops they actually ride and/or race... so they know their stuff.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
weagle
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: December 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
lynn woods boulders
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Damn fast everywhere Pretty Light Looks nice on top of my Vehicross Easy to blast wheelies on Relatively stiff laterally
Weaknesses:
annoying creak from the main pivot (undersized pivot) no replaceable derailluer hanger
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR M4, Klein Mantra race, K2 Razorback, Heckler x, AMP B5, K2 4000, Ibis Bow Ti, Various Cannondales,Some GTs, and a partridge in a pear treeeeeee.
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z2 BAM Fox Vanilla Float Hayes Full Hydrau Discs all around Chris King Full XTR driveline (5 leg XTR cranks) 18frameset with a really short stem Answer riser bars sweet snowmobile grips Mavic 521s with DT Hugi Hubs and really thick spokes that will never break Specialized Evil Twin HC syncros seatpost serfas dual density seat Brake therapy (junk) THE fender
Bottom Line:
The bike's rear geometry doesn't inhibit climbing one bit, I've ridden it locked out and with suspension, the lockout is useless except for road huffing. The Z2 BAM and Hayes discs make this bike. It wouldn't be nearly as awesome without them. I can honestly say that the Marzocchi forks are the best I have ever ridden, with White Brothers a close second. They are soooooo stiff (flex wise). In my opinion, If you run a SID, you are just ruining this bike. The long top tube / short stem combo is really nice too, I dont like other Hecklers I've ridden with the shorter frame and longer stem. I smashed up the thin downtube when the bike fell over once. The air shock is nice, and its a big imporovement over past generations, but I'd trade it for a RCR T-3 or Fox Vanilla coil over anyday. Disc brakes are here to stay, and they will ALWAYS be better than any rim brakes in any riding situation, no matter what stubborn die-hards say. Soon I will have a 2000 Heckler swingarm on it, which will allow me to sh*tcan that piece of junk useless brake therapy adapter, a product that nobody should ever use on a bike they give a rat's ass about. While I'm at it, the tech help guy was really rude to me on the phone. He thinks he is a really smart guy I'm sure. All in all, this bike inspires confidence in all who have ridden it, I love it. I really wish I bought a Bullit or a Titus Motolite though. Get one. Thanks to the guys at InternationalBikes in Brighton for hooking me up with a sweet sweet ride and a lot of good info, You guys rock. I send all my friends there to get their pedal fix now.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Winston
a Cross-Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: November 22, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
handling, quality, weight, looks
Weaknesses:
uhm... hi!
Similar Products Used:
proflex 955- similar high pivot, very dissimilar performance!
Bike Setup:
Z1's, Cane Creek shock, 9.0SL, Crossmax
Bottom Line:
Couldn't be happier. I'm faster than I was on my Easton-esque hardtail. And way more comfortable. I'd recommend Speedgoat Bikes (www.speedgoat.com) as a builder.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Wilson
a Cross-Country Rider
from Pasadena CA Date Reviewed: November 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
El Prieto
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
23.5 lbs and 4 inches of travel! handles like its on rails, simple design.
Weaknesses:
??? have't come across any yet.
Similar Products Used:
Klien Mantra Race, Cannondale F600 and Trek 8900 hard tails.
Bike Setup:
SID sl 80mm XTR Bontrager Race Lite wheel set.
Bottom Line:
Hands down the best bike I have ever ridden. If your thing is XC riding save your allowance and go get one of these babies...you won't be disappointed. The main difference that I notice over other bikes I have owned is that the Superlight geometry centers the rider weight - this allows you to move forward and backward off the saddle as the terrian dictates. On super steep technical climbs you can really get you weight forward making up hill switch backs less of a challenge. On the downhill - just lay back and let 'er rip. This bike has all the elements I've been looking for in a XC full suspension ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry
a Weekend Warrior
from Worcester, Ma Date Reviewed: November 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
All in Moab, Utah
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
weight, colors, agility
Weaknesses:
short top tube, unlocatable squeek
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Joshua Z2
Bike Setup:
SlL, Sid XC Long Fox Air Vanilla/Lockout Raceface BB + Cranks XTR + XT, Easton Riser Thompson Elite Post Nuke Proof Hubs
Bottom Line:
Great ride. Quick handling, excellent climbing. Once the bike is set up correctly, you never have to lockout the rear shock unless your on a road ride. Make sure your weight is back for rough stuff or the forward position caused by the short top tube WILL endo you. Fast accelerator for a FS bike. Next time, I would swap the Sid for a stiffer fork. If anyone has any ideas on where the squeek is coming from please email me!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck
a Cross-Country Rider
from Anchorage, AK Date Reviewed: November 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Hillside
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Lightweight (about 24 lbs) Great Climber Adjustable Rear Shock
The nicest bike I've owned. Its a great hill climber and makes any trail a lot more fun. Full suspension is the best! And the design of is so clean and works so well. Hats off to Santa Cruz. Best suspension bike going.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Oh Date Reviewed: October 14, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Among the best rear pivot frame design like Marin Mt. Vision Pro
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Litespeed, M4, Marin,
Bottom Line:
Among the best bike I've ever riden. The frame is very effective and simple similar to the xc championship designed frame of Marin's Mt. Vision. Truly a fast bike. Buy one, you can't go wrong with Superlight, Mt. Vision, M4s. I
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross-Country Rider
from Fremont Ca. Date Reviewed: October 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Toads
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Awsome blue ano,very good in tight single track,great climber,and good on dowhills.
Weaknesses:
BRAKE induced lockout and flexy rear end.Very anoying creak from main pivot.
Similar Products Used:
FSR first and second generation,Klien Mantra,GT LTS,Schwinn 4 Banger and many hartails
Bike Setup:
XTR,Sid 63mm,King headset and hubs,Taper bars,Syncros stem and post,Raceface cranks 23.5 lbs.
Bottom Line:
VERY quick handling with short travel Sid and does almost everything great with light wt.Solved creaking problem by greasing the main pivot-minor maintenance.Rear end was very riged when new but now has some noticable flex-enough to graze right chainstay with crank under extreme efforts out of the saddle.Good bike overall but far from perfect.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kenty
a Racer
from Toronto, OnTARIO Date Reviewed: October 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything in sedona, hardwood hills, ont.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Can you say light, Can you say fast, Can you say Porsche like handling, Looks pretty fly........
Weaknesses:
Trust me on this, don't tell your wife what you paid for it.... Top tube could be a little longer.
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, chris king headset, easton monkey lite riser bars, superfly z.2 fork, fox vanilla rc w/lockout, sram 9.0 esp shilfters, bontrager valiant asymetrical wheels - radial laced front / radial laced rear non-drive side & 2 cross drive side, richey speedmax alpha wcs kevlar 1.9, conti cross country 1.5 kevlar, titec cf seatpost,.
Bottom Line:
This is the way full suspension is supposed to be, light enough to race (23.48 lb), no pedal induced bobbing, flick a switch for a hardtail when on pavement or on very steep climbs, bomb downhill with extreme confidence and contol (especially with the superfly which can be set up very plush for freeriding or stiff for racing). I ASK YOU, CAN LIFE GET ANY BETTER? Oh yes, and don't forget the sunscreen, live life by the credo of the warrior: courage, honour , strength, humility. Thanks, santa cruz......(good service too, they shipped me a new rim to replace a defective one without me having to jump through hoops). One more thing, Canada is the best country to live in. Peace.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AL
a Cross-Country Rider
from LAGUNA, CALIFORNIA Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
MEADOWS
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
LITE WEIGHT, RIDE, HANDLING
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
GT TEAM LTS
Bike Setup:
ROCK SHOX DUAL AIR SIDS, FOX , XTR, CANE CREEK WHEELS, EASTON BARS/ SEATPOST, SDG SEAT,AME GRIPS
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE HAS IT ALL. ITS NOT CHEAP BUT ITS WELL WORTH THE BUCKS.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross-Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
island lake
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
light, agile, stable, simple
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
c-dale super-v; f-1000, litespeed obed, etc
Bike Setup:
99 heckler frame w/vanilla float, WB sc92ul fork, full xtr, dirt control/bontrager revolt super -x
Bottom Line:
an amazing bike. it weighs 24lbs fully loaded. it is incredibly balanced: climbing, decending, cornering are all very graceful.the bike even sprints well. an interesting note: i weigh 145 and have to put only 60 psi into the shock. this results in a plush ride without bobbing. lower pressure should mean better shock life. the jury is still out on the fork: still adjusting and breaking it in, but it feels better with every ride...will review it later. wow, what a FUN bike!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BOB
a Cross-Country Rider
from BOULDER CO Date Reviewed: October 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
WHITE RANCH
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
LIGHT,PLUSHHHHHHHH
Weaknesses:
AS IF!!!
Similar Products Used:
WHY BOTHER
Bike Setup:
XTR RACE FACE FOX WHITE BROS 92UL
Bottom Line:
UNREAL RIDE!!MINE IS 26.5LBS DUE TO 1000GRAM TIRESAND WB92 FORK[3.9 LBS,NOT 3.2 AS ADVERTISED!]SELL YOUR SOUL TO THE DEVIL IF YOU MUST TO AFFORD THIS BIKE ITS WORTH IT!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eddie kryk
a Cross-Country Rider
from dallas/ft.worth Date Reviewed: October 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
northshore@grapevine
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
very quick and tight steering.excellent xc ride.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
specialized,trek
Bike Setup:
frame up build.full xtr with raceface cranks and bottom bracket.valiant/king wheelset.thomson post wtb saddle.superfly up front,c.creek ad-10 rear
Bottom Line:
this is a 23.5 lb(medium)incredible machine.it is on the short side as far as travel goes but i am in texas and don't see downhilling in my future.a special thanks to sportslink(david)for the killer deal on the frame and to chris @ speedgoat for the excellent build on the wheelset.i am extremely happy with the performance of this bike. eddie.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Cupertino Ca Date Reviewed: October 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Demo Forest or Skaggs
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Excellent in tight single track, better than good in climbing and allows you to spin hard through the rough stuff.
Weaknesses:
A little sketchy in fast steep down hill, probably due to the light weight and aggressive head angle. Unified rear triangle make solid tracktion on hard bracking difficult.
Similar Products Used:
Y-22, 33 & 3.o. Cannodale V1000 and Hario X.
Bike Setup:
I built up my self, stock frame,. Vanilla R rear shock (no modifications), Had a Sid XC on it, tjroughj that piece of crap in the waste bin, a but thats another review. Answer Manitu SX Carbon, Raceface Cranks, Phi Wood Ti bottom bracket, Easton riser bar, Titec stem, Thompson post, Bontrager Ti seat, grip shift 9.0, Flack Jacket cables, Paul levers & Avid 25 brackes. Custom wheels lighter than Daves! Nets out at 22 3/4lbs.
Bottom Line:
Great handling, fast climbing , able down hilling fighting machine that was built to win races.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Harftord, Ct Date Reviewed: September 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Stability, Climbing, Simplicity
Weaknesses:
Lacks a replacable rear derailer hanger. I dodged the bullit once. Next time I am sure the swing arm will need replacement.
Similar Products Used:
Canondale fr1000--Don't believe the hype
Bike Setup:
XTR, SID, Fox vanalla float, Panaracer firexcpro
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome. It loves to climb and screams on the down hills. It really shines in the tough cross country. It totally blows away the canondale in everything except the scarriest down hill which it is not made for. My only complant is that the sid can be a pain in the ass. The c3 cart needed a rebuild before it came out of the box. Once that was working right, it took a couple of time in the shop, the adjustablity is great. Anyone who is looking for a great bike, look around for this one. You will probabbly notice that at least one person in the shop owns a sanata cruz. If you get a sid, make sure your local bike shop is supportive.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mitch Bowling
a Weekend Warrior
from Warrington, PA Date Reviewed: September 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Wissahickon Park (outside Philly)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Simple design, low maintenance, very light
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR M4
Bike Setup:
Z2 Bam fork. Chris King aheadset. Race Face cranks, post, stem & BB. Avid Arch 50 and levers. Easton Carbon CT2 bar. CrossMax rims with Velociraptors.
Bottom Line:
I have owned this bike for about 6 months and like it better every time I ride. It climbs great, handles well and is great going down the other side. You can't go wrong by purchasing a Superlight. Four inches of suspension at 23 pounds says it all.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris R.
a Racer
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: September 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
corte madera
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
FAST,simple design,light,climbs better than my hardtail,fast in all aspects,looks good
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
SC Heckler, trek y bike
Bike Setup:
Z1 bomber,fox air RC,Race Face cranks and rings,XTR drivetrain,Chris King wheelset,thomson post,eastonCT2 bar,koski stem,KING headset
Bottom Line:
If you're someone who likes to climb alot and also tear it up on the descent, this is all you need, i've always been a fast climber, and this bike doesn't hinder my performance one bit. Not to mention it's only $1100 to replace this frame with your hardtail. Make the change you won't be sorry. Who would have thought you could four fully active inches of travel front and rear on a bike that weighs under 24 lbs.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris R
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Carlos, Ca Date Reviewed: September 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
El Corta
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
This bike is dope, it is stiff, light, climbs like a goat and eats up the down hill
Weaknesses:
I did have a creak in the bottom bracket, that worked it self away
Similar Products Used:
RAD1 (any one hear of this one?????) Bontrager Race
Bike Setup:
Chris King: Headset Hubs Race Face bars, stem, crank Fox RC
Bottom Line:
I rode/raced one of the first full suspension bikes 7 years ago, I went with hard tails for years after that. This was the first full suspension bike I have considered since then. I almost bought a Tasmon several years ago, it was a bit heavy. I am 6'4 and 205, I have trouble with bikes being stiff enough, this one is the tasty goodness!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross-Country Rider
from Aiken, SC Date Reviewed: August 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Parson's Mtn
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Similar Products Used:
always rode hardtails. Merlin and IF
Bike Setup:
SL Frame, Z2Bam, Fox Air RC, King, 9.0SL&ESP, Cane Creek Wheels, XTR Crank
Bottom Line:
Lovely ride. Can go on long rides and not get so beat up. Great ride on the singletrack and bombing fast fireroads. All around the perfect cross country fs bike for us old folks that go fast and far.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat Trolan
a Cross-Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: August 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
West Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light climbs great
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Tazmon
Bike Setup:
XTR, FOX, Rock Shox
Bottom Line:
Hey, I need another one! Does anyone want to sell a 20 super lite frame? I've got a 20 brand new tazmon I'd like to give in partial trade-- if not I'll pay all cash!-- I really like this bike!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Fall City,WA Date Reviewed: July 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Chikamin
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my previous entry of several months ago. This bike just gets better and better. I switched from the Marzocchi Z-2 to a White Brothers UL92 and I switched the Fox Air Vanilla RC for the AD-10. Both changes are well worth it. I love the Zokes, but they are heavy. The White Brothers are really sweet and combined with the air sprung rear, are about as nice as it gets. The Fox rear shock was driving me nuts with all the squeaking and noises it made. It held air and had acceptable damping, but the noises drove me nuts. The AD-10 is the perfect compliment to the White Brothers. You put that together with the frame and you have a great combination. In the perfect work Santa Cruz frames would have a longer top tube, but overall, the Superlight is a great frame.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
don pennington
a Cross-Country Rider
from lake park,florida Date Reviewed: July 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any in north georgia
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
light stiff and very easy set up
Weaknesses:
some compatibility problems with white bros.sc92ul fork
Similar Products Used:
proflex 856,santa cruz heckler
Bike Setup:
white bros.92UL fork,foxair van.rc. race face cranks,esp shift&der.syncros carbon post,syncros stem,xtr brakes koski ti bar
Bottom Line:
I've ridden a heckler for 2 years and loved it so i bought the superlight and it's even better,ride quality and stifness is improved.when i ordered mine they were out of the anodized frames in my size so i got one powder coated in sid blue and it looks great.the only problem is the top caps on the white bros UL fork will hit the down tube if the fork is turned to far but a call to white bros told me to run the fork without the caps .i just have to be careful to clean the valves before putting air in the fork. if any one else has had the same problem with the white bros air fork e-mail me to tell me what you did about it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eli
a Weekend Warrior
from Fresno, CA Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Cannell Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light, cushy, climbs like a goat, descends like a bobsled
Weaknesses:
rear brake housing sometimes hits my leg, anodizing is easy to gouge
Manitou SX Ti, Cane Creek AD 10, Race Face cranks, Bontrager Titec 118 Bars, King Headset, FSA Ti BB, WTB SST seat, Bontrager seat post, XTR hubs, rear dearailleur, and brakes, XT brake levers and right shifter, Suntour left thumbshifter (it rules), Specialized Team Master tire (rear), Panaracer Fire (front), Mavic 217 rims, Control Tech stem
Bottom Line:
This bike is what I have dreamed of ever since full suspension became a reality. It's plush and forgiving, but it's also damn light. Mine weighs a bit under 25 pounds right now, and feels even lighter. It climbs at least as well as my titanium hard tail, but feels much better through the rough stuff. I love the simplicity of the design, which requires virtually no maintenance for the pivot and allows almost no flex. It took me some time to get the shock dialed in to the right pressure, since the bike's leverage ratio is only two to one. This means that you can get away with much less air in the shock than you might expect. I weigh about 180, and I only put 90 pounds of air in the shock. Now it rides very plush, but hardly ever bottoms out. I only wish that the fork was a supple as the rear shock, and I'm seriously thinking about switching to a Bomber so that the front and back ends will be in balance. My only complaint is that the anodizing is so thin, any contact with another hard object is enough to scrape the finish. I may have to get the frame powder coated if it keeps getting dinged up. Also, my heel hits the brake cable housing occasionally, but that's no big deal. Other than that, it's been sweet. If you're in the market for a lightweight FS bike, then you owe it to yourself to check this one out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from San Jose,Ca. Date Reviewed: June 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
El Corte Madera
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Flickability, soaking up bumps on fast decents, climbing and it's ability to do it all-makes a great race bike.You can absolutely rail tight switchbacks on it.
Weaknesses:
Some times feels skittish on fast downhills, but then it wasn't designed to be a downhill specific bike. As with any thin tubed aluminum bike, be careful- the tubes will dent. But hey, ya wanted the light weight, right?
Similar Products Used:
I owned a Tazmon (also a sweet bike) before I got the S/L.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz S/L frame,Sid XC fork,Grip Shift 9.0,Performance Ti bars and bottom bracket,Race Face cranks, my old XT brakes as they were the only things worthy.
Bottom Line:
I've been riding/racing this bike for 6 months and have been quite happy with it once I got it dialed in to suit me. If you prefer a long top tube I suggest you go for the large frame if you are my size-5'9. Cockpit was a little cramped but I fixed it with a O degree rise stem. This thing climbs like scared cat up a tree,descends like a gazelle. It's not the all 'round bike that my Tazmon was, but If your looking for a thoroghbred race bike that will give an advantage at any race course-this is it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leonard
a Weekend Warrior
from Manhattan Date Reviewed: June 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
mt Rushmore trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
- Super LIght - Super efficient - Super Plush
Weaknesses:
- Quite a poor looker - The rear end is beginning to flex
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z1 , Santa Cruz Super LIght , Fox Air , Magura Racelines + Louise , Full XTR , Crossmax .
Bottom Line:
I set it up ... to be a fun bike . Well , this way , it descends like a bomb , but also ascend like a goat . For 25 lbs , it is hell of a free ride bike . In fact U can call it an ultra light DH bike . Great fun , great speed , great satisfaction .
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ethan rhoads
a Cross-Country Rider
from eugene, oregon Date Reviewed: May 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
alpine
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
light, plush ride. first f/s i've tried that felt right for x-country
Weaknesses:
none so far, have heard the people at s/c can be less than helpful.
Similar Products Used:
kona, klein, gt
Bike Setup:
98 superlight frame with 8speed xtr, thompson post, flite saddle, king h/s, wtb rims, ti bar, conti tires, rst xmo fork. 747's
Bottom Line:
very light for an f/s, the ad10 and xmo shocks are great. the bike weighs less than most of my riding buddies hardtails. awesome single track bike, climbs well over rocks and roots. my klein adroit is significantly lighter and faster steering but the plush ride of the santa cruz leaves it hanging in the mud room ride after ride. great race bike, lets you pick sloppy lines around slower riders that would throw me from my klein. built with abusable light bits listed it weighs 24lbs.......
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott
a Racer
from arkansas Date Reviewed: May 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
light, strong, simple, little to no bobbing, easy to set-up
Similar Products Used:
mantra, diamond back, specialized, y bike
Bike Setup:
manitou carbon with xt/xtr mix .. a little over 24 lbs (xtra large)
Bottom Line:
best bike I have ridden ever... makes rough trail riding fun again...no quirkey bobbing or set-up problems...feels much like my hard tail only smoother... hardly ever need to lock out the rear except when big ringing on pavement..
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross-Country Rider
from Chicago IL Date Reviewed: May 20, 1999
The full suspension is great, have been riding a Manitou for years. However I was disappointed that my AVID Arch Supreme would not fit on the rear because of the brake boss tube diameter. It really is a sweet frame.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SCOTT CUGNO
a Cross-Country Rider
from TIERRA VERDE FL Date Reviewed: May 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
HARDROCK
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
EVERYTHING.I LOVE THIS BIKE SO MUCH.ITS THE BEST BIKE I'VE EVER OWNED.
Weaknesses:
NOTHING, THIS BIKE IS GREAT GREAT GREAT.
Similar Products Used:
SPECIALIZED GARY FISHER AMP
Bike Setup:
SID XC CANE CREEK REAR RACE FACE CRANKS XTR EVERYTHING ELSE CROSS MAX WHEELS
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE ROCKS 23POUNDS ALL DAY LONG.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: May 15, 1999
Santa Cruz Superlight with full Shimano XTR features, Manitou SX Carbon front shocks,FoxVanilla Float rear suspension, Chris King headset, Wound Up carbon fiber handlebar and seat stem, Mavic CrossMax wheels w/Tioga Factory 1.95 XC tires.
Bottom Line:
Just an amazing bike. I ride each weekend on fireroads that climb about 2000' over 4 miles and descend just as much. I rode a Gary Fisher for years and, having turned fifty, I started looking for something special for the new millenium. Looking at mtbr.com and going through all the bike shops in the South Bay, I settled on the SC Superlight. The first time I rode it in the mountains, the SC took ten minutes off the trip to the top and did not beat me up on the way down. I first had Maxxis Worm gear tires on the bike which are good for hard pack surfaces, but were no good in the dust and rocks. The Tioga tires really helped the control going downhill. I tried climbing with the rear suspension on full and locked out, and except for the smoother ride with the suspension engaged, felt no loss of power climbing. This bike is just plain classic late 20th century design both in the way it looks and the way it operates. Just an amazing bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mark weaver
a Racer
from forestville ca Date Reviewed: May 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
western states
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
light, solid feel when climbing, terrific singletrack handling, ultra reliable, best wheelset i've ever owned (bontrager valiant)
Weaknesses:
rear brakes don't open very far, must deflate fat tires to remove rear wheel (of course i usually only want to remove it because the tire deflated itself)
Similar Products Used:
proflex, fisher joshua, klein mantra
Bike Setup:
fox vanilla air shock, sid xc fork, xtr mega9 gears. at 160 lbs, i'm using about 140 psi in the rear shock and about 50 psi in the front
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike because i sold santa cruz for several years, and they don't break. they are one of the only bikes that is designed for people who ride alot (even tho lots of posers buy them). i do lots of 6+ hr backcountry rides, and i'll be racing a 24 hr solo, and leadville on it, so reliability and simplicity (and light weight) are important to me. even tho i've only owned the bike 2 weeks, i've already put over 30 hrs on it. did i mention it was light?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Wood
a Cross-Country Rider
from Roanoke , VA Date Reviewed: May 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Carvins Cove
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Weight,Looks Awsome, Weight, Suspension. Weight. This bike is light!!!!
Weaknesses:
A small creak coming from the lower pivot.
Bike Setup:
Cross Max,Chris King head set,SID,Avid 2.5,Raceface Crank,Frog Ti pedals ,Action Teck Ti BB,Tioga Factory Race,LP carbon fiber bars, Everything else is XTR
Bottom Line:
This bike is totaly awesome. I am 160 lbs and run the SID at 60 lbs, i run the Fox Vanilla at 130 and the ride is the best i have ever felt. This thing climbs like the best hardtails. Acceleration is out of this world . On the single tracks it still impresses me every time out. The weight is 22lbs 14 oz. Yes i weighed it at the local bike shop and it blew everyones mind. It was a full pound lighter than his favorite hardtail. I love this bike and recomend ti to anyone who wants a full suspension bike, you will not be disapointed i promise. Any one who wants more info on this bike and the components feel free to email me at KTMR8CING@aol.com
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jamey
a Cross-Country Rider
from baton rouge, louisiana Date Reviewed: May 10, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
light great geometry very cool lockout lever on rear shock
Weaknesses:
routing of rear brake cable (for xt v's) hits your ankle
Similar Products Used:
Progression: trek 6500 yeti pro fro gt lts
Bike Setup:
judy xc 3in wtb monemtum headset race face riser bars, cranks and seatpost time carbon pedals gt ti bb azonic stem everything else is xt
Bottom Line:
the reason why i bought this bike was b/c i was sick of the maintenance nightmare that is the gt lts. right off the bat, i lost about 2 pounds just switching the frame. it is noticeably stiffer in the rear and the bike feels very tight. i wouldnt say it is plush, although i am comeing from a gt outfitted with a coil shock and a 4 bar linkage, so take that with a grain of salt. i accelerates fast and if you throw on a set of risers you can bunny hop a car. built, it weighs around 26 pounds with wheels and a heavy seat (that impotence saddle from specialized). still though, i have fairly light parts on it and would venture to say you would be hard pressed to get it down to 22.5 like the literature says no matter what you build it with. everything most others say about it i would agree with. the only complaint i can come up with is the routing on the rear brake makes the noodle stick out from the frame and it brushes against your ankle when you stand and hammer...very annoying. i managed to contort my cables the other way to avoid this but to the detriment of brake performance.let me also say, even though it has nothing to do with the frame, that the 99 rock shock judy i put on there is the worst fork ever made. with the stock springs (im 160), it blows through its travel and lord help you if anything bigger than a couple of roots is in your way. it seems like it locks out on big hits. my wrists hurt after every ride. leaked oil all over the carpet in my house. plus, rock shock has the all time worst costomer service in the history of mountain biking. overall, i dont think you could put down your jack on a better frame. you can build whatever kind of bike you want with it and be happy. the hallmark of a great bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver Date Reviewed: April 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim - (backwards)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Best FS/XC geometry Light, light, light
Weaknesses:
Trouble with Cane Creek Bushing already - they are sending new parts for free.
Similar Products Used:
Bike history: SC Tazmon Fisher Supercaliber - 3 times Trek 8000 Trek 950
Bike Setup:
Speedgoat 85mm Mod front Cane Creek AD10 rear XTR brake calipers 9.0 levers SRAM Plama shifters 9 speed w XTR derailluers King wheelset
Bottom Line:
After riding and loving my Tazmon for the last 3 years it was only luck that brought me together with this ride. Everyone says that this thing climbs like a goat, to be honest, I never had any problems climbing before on a hardtail and the SC has not hindered that ability at all. I am a better climber however after riding a SC for three years but that may be due to more practice. Would I ever go back to a hardtail??? Never! I considered a softtail late into my ownership of the Tazmon due to weight. However, the Superlight I now posess comes in at under 23.5 pounds. I guess it could have been lighter. I skipped the avid brake calipers because I prefer the design of the XTR, however it adds a little. I went with Raceface for the crankset with a ti BB, also adding a little weight.This may sound like an overall mediocre review so maybe I should reset the tone. This bike rules, really the geometry rules whether you dump $3k+ on the primo stuff or just over $1k, you are getting the best performing, lowest maintenence(sp) suspension design on the market. When I first was making the transition from Hardtail to FS I was looking for several things; efficient suspension design, low maintenance, durability, low weight. I thought I was allowing for some tradeoff in these items when I bought my first SC. I found that the only thing that I was challenged with was a little more weight. I was spoiled be a 23lb carbon Fisher. The SC Tazmon added about 3.5 pounds to that, really not a big deal, especially after I had ridden it and began to adapt my riding style to it.This thing is tough as well. I wrecked all but one frame that I owned prior to the SC Tazmon. The only problem I had with the Tazmon was shearing the bolt binding the rear shock to the swingarm. This was remedied not by returning the frame to the manufacturer but by going to Napa and getting a $0.25 bolt.The key to this bike is simplicity, it lends to low maintenence, durability and efficiency in design. There is a belief in the scientific world that more often than not, the simplest solution is the best solution. I could probably go on but I am sure you are getting tired eyes.BOTTOM LINE: If you want to enjoy your ride both down and up the hill and you still want to be able to put out with the hard-tailies and you don't want to get a new bike every year because you have beaten the crap out of yours, this is for you.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Pelman
a Cross-Country Rider
from Los Angeles, Ca Date Reviewed: April 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Corral Canyon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
weight, suspension design, simplicity.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
regular heckler, Raven 2000, 700, Joshua, M4
Bike Setup:
XTR, 9.0 SL, Cane Creek, SID XC, 6 speaker audio system, gps, rear cup holders, dog cage, kayak rack.
Bottom Line:
well here it is... after spying on these reviews (pre-bike purchace) i guess it's my turn. now i know how easy it is for a billy goat to get around. THE FLIGHT OF THE GOAT act 1 : a muddy, rocky, steep and narrow incline appears immediatly. at this point a slight hesitation looms among the hardtailers as they approach. Their spirit for the thrill launches them forward. half way up and they are spinning wool, tipping over, where's the line? what's that smell? approaching the climb is our Superlight hero, with a shift into small ring, medium strenght gear, she educates our foiled commrades. pointing up she scales the hill with true precision, confidence and great lycra. her sculpted, muddy calves work a perfect rpm as she climbs. the bike contracts and expands lengthwise as the suspension gives effective adhesion to the contour of the climb. she executes a perfect s shaped line to the top passing the dropped jaws of the hardtailers. at the top she points downhill with a quiet confidence that she knows something that they don't... ... a smirk crawls across her face as the scuttling of the others continue behind her, the goatbike will descend as fun as it ascends.in the immortal words of Goofy...whooohooohoooey!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt S
a Cross-Country Rider
from Cambridge Ma Date Reviewed: April 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Monadnock
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Mine actually weighs in the 23's (My meas.) Climbs like a hardtail without a ? Suspension soaks it ALL up Great Wheels! Too much to list really....
Weaknesses:
Mega 9 drive-train is LUGGAGE! Unbelievably crappy saddle and a ridiculously low grade head set for such a big-dolla rig!
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y, GT I-drive, Scwinns, Specialized, Litespeed, Rygin, Yadda Yadda, I-ve ridden them all.
Bike Setup:
Superlight, Superfly, Fox RC, Full XTR.
Bottom Line:
I can't hardly explain how nice this bike is.... At first I was thinking that droping 3 and a half bills on a bike was at best...the stupidest thing I have done to date. It wasn't....THE RIDE...OH MY GOD!!! this thing soaks up roots and rocks like you are just riding on hard pack. I can't describe how well it does. AND THE WEIGHT!!!! mine is full XTR/ Carbon Seatpost/Bar ends/ Avocet 02 Ti/ Frog Pedals/ Superfly/FloatRC and it ACTUALLY weighs in the mid 23's I WEIGHED IT MYSELF! I beat the piss out of it, it climbs like a hardtail...infact with the lockout engadged there is no noticable difference. Even when switching mid-ride to a hardtail you can see that the superlights suspension design is the most flawless design out there. (The hardtail owner is now dead set on buying one now :) ) It does not even flex under my 215 lb. frame. It does it all, the most applicable quote is having things this nice in your life are worth the money no matter how much you pay. And beleive me I'm not loaded, my car is worth a mere 1/3rd the cost of this bike. My only problem with the rig is a few bum parts that come in the kit..they belong on a huffy..like the headset. The Mega-range is also garbage..but thats not SC's fault. 5 stars for this big bad larry of a dream-ride. Now if I only the 911 turbo with a roof rack that this thing deserves to be transported atop........
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Lai
a
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: March 5, 1999
Bottom Line:
As a beginner on MTB, I dare not to say there is no better stuff on the world. With 570km riding on my superlight (with full XTR, SID XC'LT', CrossMax and IRC MythosXC), I however have to say she is better than my wife. It climbs like a hardtail (with Fox RC lockout) and descends under perfect control. I just feel the bike is over me skill, keep tough. BAD: The frame material, just like other aluminium frame maybe, is not stiff enough. Just one fall on Kowloon Peak and the 1 cm square chipped wound appears on the right chain stay. Sooooooo hurt!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimmy
a weekend warrior
from Jimmyland Date Reviewed: March 2, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have mostly XTR components, an Atom Bomb fork, and riser bars. The setup weighs EXACTLY 26 lbs. It is a great bike and really comfy on the bung. As a matter of fact, my bung-roids are actually shrinking, and my lower back feels great. Plus, I no longer descend like a grandma (nothing against grandmas).In addition, it looks really cool on my car racks as I cruise from coffee house to coffee house.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marco Scuriatti
a cross-country rider
from Washington, DC Date Reviewed: February 22, 1999
Bottom Line:
I recently moved from a Trek-Y22 to this monster, and after 100 miles of riding in all kinds of conditions and trails I must say I am still amazed. This is a fast, well-built, machine and you need to be fully dialed to make the most out of it. I have a Marzocchi Superfly fork (What else, I'm Italian) and Spox wheels which I think add even more rigidity to this bike, i.e. you just point it and it goes, and that stands for steep uphills also. Also, you will be glad to know that in tight singletrack, this machine just keeps accelerating blowing you, and your competition, away while little adjustments in your knees just call for amazingly quick carves (By the way, I recommend a short to medium stem). On the negative side, I have to say that I am experiencing a little pesky screeching noise at the pivot base but will soon fix it by applying some judy butter. Will keep you updated on the results. All in all, if you do not mind spending the big bucks this is defenitely the ride you want to have to maximize your singletrack experience. I love it, my girlfriend thinks I am a fool, but I don't care.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a cross-country rider
from Fall City, Washington Date Reviewed: February 13, 1999
Bottom Line:
The Santa Cruz Superlight is an awesome bike. I previously owned the standard Heckler and liked that bike a lot. I bought an Intense Uzzi SL and like it, but it was too heavy for regular riding so I got the Superlight from Chris at Speedgoat. It's built with mostly XTR components with Race Face cranks, Dave Thomas speed dream wheels, Moots layback post, Kore stem and Z-2 bam fork. I'm not sure what it weighs but its very competitive. It climbs way, way better than the Uzzi, descends well, though not as well as the Uzzi and just feels really well balanced. The Fox Air RC took a little adjusting to, but for most riding it is excellent. The bike is fabulous. For people looking for a lightweight full suspension. This is the ticket. I do doubt though that even with a SID whether or not you could get the bike down to 22.5 lbs like Santa Cruz claims. I've got super light weight components (except for the fork) and I know I'm not close to that weight. I'm guessing around 24.5 lbs. In any case, it's a super bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a cross-country rider
from Bingen, WA USA Date Reviewed: December 3, 1998
Bottom Line:
A sweet ride even at 23.5 lbs fully dressed. I had this bike built full XTR with the new long travel SID XC, lockout Fox shock, Frogs, Flight Ti and LP bar ends. A quick test ride/holiday in the Mountains around Santa Barbera CA (Little Pine Mtn./Romero Canyon) showed that this bike can perform (rocky fireroads, technical descents). I decided the single pivot swingarm would provide the most reliability and be void of creaks and nuisance. The swingarm seems strong and offers a lot of clearance. Overall the bike feels solid and climbing is a breeze whether seated or standing due to the ability to lock out the rear shock. The XTR Mega Nine reverse shifter shifted accurately up and down and offers an extremely wide ratio. Downhill was a joy. One note is that the long travel shock raised the front end enough that I chose to invert the stock stem. The SID feels great. No stiction and easy to adjust all settings. For a complaint I'de say move the water bottle mount forward so the rear shifter cable is not impacted by actually using a water bottle.
Overall Rating:
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