Submitted by
Jon Sillito
a Weekend Warrior
from Manchester, UK Date Reviewed: February 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere for a play!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Lightish, has stood up to my hardcore abuse.
Weaknesses:
Suspension bushing system is crap! Parrallel mount disc frame is a faff.
Similar Products Used:
Giant hardtail, some crap rigids.
Bike Setup:
Mavic 321 disc wheels, Deore Hydraulic 180mm brakes, Panaracer FR 2.4 tyres, Bomber Z4 air forks, Rockshox deluxe shock, Raceface Bars, ODI lock ons, 24seven stem, Odessey pedals, Specialized tubes, A2Z PMR rear brake adapter. QR seatclamp and a LizrdSkin. Upgraded to teflon bushings.
Bottom Line:
Bought this bike as a XC bike, and just upgraded it to handle loads of freeriding and DH stuff. I suppose this frame has handled the abuse that I throw at it, it's seen some milage and some big drops and jumps. I suppose you shouldn't really take it down DH tracks, but I have, and the frame has held up. I suppose the best thing about this bike is that when I stick my skinnier tyres on it, raise the saddle and harden the suspension, it becomes a good XC bike. Stick the fat tyres on, unwind the shock and let some air out of the forks, and it becomes a freeride lite machine. If only the suspension didn't slop. Apart from that, I like riding it, and will still use it, even when I get a new freeride bike this summer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Croteau
a Racer
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: December 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
e-Bay
Strengths:
looks, weight, Homegrown name, suspension. Loved the way it rails and feels connected to the trail
Weaknesses:
Bottom bracket pivot design = P.O.S
Similar Products Used:
Ti hardtail, older Specialized McPherson strut design, steel hardtail
Bike Setup:
XT, Syncros, Mavic,
Bottom Line:
Bought frame used on e-Bay 2 years ago. Built up w/ XT components. Solid 26 lb. race rig perfectly suited for the rock gardens and twist singletrack on the Ringwood race course. Began to develop some slop in the BB pivot a year later. Pacific sold me some "new improved" BB pivot brackets with the bushings installed. I bought two sets along with a replaceable dropout. After a couple months, there was more play. Apparently the BB shell is worn so that even the new pivots have play. Frame over. Called Pacific and they no longer make the pivots as the older design Rockett 88 is the subject of some legal issues. Pacific offered a crash replacement of a New Delta 88 plus about $300. No thanks - done with Schwinn. Breaks my heart. Saving my money for a real frame. If anyone is interested in the replacement parts, let me know.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neal
a
from Peoria, IL Date Reviewed: June 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Jubilee Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1099.00
Purchased At:
Russell's Cycle and Fitness
Strengths:
Great suspension!! i love it. before i had a Gary Fisher with NO suspension at all. i love the schwinn, people are downgrading schwinn because they started selling in walmart. i love it. make sure u take a ride and bounce a lil on the rear suspension before u say it doesnt work, pushing on the seat doesnt apply enough pressure of enough area.
Just try it out, i think you like it
Weaknesses:
i havent noticed ne yet, except the chain rubs on the bar in certain gears.
not too major
Similar Products Used:
None similar, but i did use a gary fisher wahoo with no suspension
Bike Setup:
stock with short stem and new petals.
Bottom Line:
great beginners/intermeadite bike, i thought it was expensive, but im only 15. seems to hold up very well
you should save up to buy it, or on the other hand it could be your backup bike under a gt or cannondale
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sean the bikehut guy
a Weekend Warrior
from wales, uk Date Reviewed: October 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
afan argoed
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
halfords bikehut
Strengths:
Light but strong with it. Deore 9spd and hollowtech crankset Geometry'll fit a medium travel fork (100-123/130mm) nice 4-bar rocker, gives confidence down rocky stuff. Radially laced front wheel looks pimpy
Weaknesses:
Jett fork, changed for a Marxocchi MXC. LX rear mech, swap for a deore or XT when the spring goes. Bar a bit narrow, but that's personal taste. Hubs not disc compatible, no-name front.
Similar Products Used:
Marin mount vision, shoreline trail
Bike Setup:
Stock, with these added: Marzocchi MXC 2002 fork Azonic Hotseat saddle world force riser 98 Dx spd and red cage pedals
Bottom Line:
Top quality bike for the price I paid. Was at clearance in my workplace so I also had staff discount. Full sus with deore, marzocchi and a deluxe coil-over for about £600? doubt you'd get a better buy than that.
The bike rides well, is fast on the trail and gives lots of confidence. Despite being an XC bike it can take most of what you can throw at it, within reason (Josh Bender need not apply!)
Try and find one for about £500 and you'll be laughing, the fork is the only real weak spot (all the other mods were personal choice for me) but ride it until you kill it or can afford an upgrade (and it does look SUPERB with a black marzocchi on the front!!)
Overall, a top second bike, if you don't want to ride your racer everywhere, or a superb starter bike for those who want full sus and are prepared to pay the extra couple of hundred for a well speccd, lightweight bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Racer
from Fontana, WI Date Reviewed: June 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
John Muir
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
Michaels Cycles
Strengths:
Light, good climber, execlent in down hill sections, cool looking can handle drops and free riding
Weaknesses:
Stock seat post broke, stock wheels are flexy, stock seat broke ICBM isnt intergrated cups!
Similar Products Used:
Giant XTC, Fisher Sugar, FSR, I drive
Bike Setup:
Sid XC, Avid flak jacket cables, LX shifters and levers, Xt dehrailers, Mavic 138 on Lx hubs, Michelin comp s tires, Sellaitalia flight trans am seat, KORE post, Stock bars and stem.
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great alaround bike, i have raced XC with it for 2 years now. I also raced some DS races with it. I did a lot of free riding and everyday riding on it my first year i owned it. It has never let me down and it always rides very nice. I lost a lot of wieght with these upgrades i did. I basically replaced parts as they broke. I recomend this bike for someone that isnt sure how they want to ride and want to do it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Henry
a Weekend Warrior
from Greenwich CT Date Reviewed: April 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Caugnewaug
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Dave's Cycle and fitness
Strengths:
Great handling, doesn't pogo on climbs.
Weaknesses:
The seat that comes with it stinks, so I put on a specialized body geometry. Shocks squeak on little hits
Bike Setup:
All of the origional components accept for the seat, wheels, rims and tires. I got mavic tubeless tires put on it and they grip well.
Bottom Line:
For all day weekend excursions it's an excelent full suspention bike that climbs really well and soaks up small to medium hits. All of the components work well enough, so all that needs replacing is the crappy seat. Great bike, I highly recomend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr. B
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: January 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anderson
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$899.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Very Plush ride, climbs like a goat, strong drive train all around excellent set up. 2001 model
Weaknesses:
Seat and seat post are first to go, and a quick release for the seat post would be nice to have.
Similar Products Used:
GT, Trek Fuel (what a pig), Gary Fisher, Spealized, all these bikes cost more and had less to offer
Bike Setup:
2001 set up/ LX/XT drive train with deore shifters, Fox Float rear with Manitou fork
Bottom Line:
I bought a 2001 model that was on clearance and have been surprised by how it handles and feels going though rock gardens and fire roads. The Fox Float in the rear is stiff and feels simular to a hardtail until you hit a serious rut or some good size rocks. This bike is super fast and fun to ride. The seat is the only thing I really have to complain about, for me it's to narrow and hurts like hell on the long rides. The rear shock holds up even when doing 3 foot jumps, very easey to adjust for your weight. This is my first full suspension bike and have founf it to be an all around kind of bike. I don't do lots of crazy down hill and free riding, this bike isn't for that. But it does handel good going down the hill just as well as it does going up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
martin mills
a Weekend Warrior
from chesterfield, derbys, england Date Reviewed: December 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
peak-peak, derbyshire
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Halfords Bike Dock
Strengths:
Lightness, general ride, looks and price
Weaknesses:
Front derailer, plastic bushes, low bb. Schwinn has gone bust and parts are impossible to obtain. Magnet for thieves.
Similar Products Used:
Various Hardtails
Bike Setup:
Stock UK spec 2000, Outland MTB pedals (for super quick dismount)
Bottom Line:
Brilliant bike that really took some hammer. Constant niggles with useless front chainguide. Low bb really is a pain for following rutted tracks. Rear shock pivot came out which meant 2week off road to get aluminium bushes made by BETD - advise that you just upgrade all the cheap plastic bushes as soon as practicable ($20 each!!!). All round superb package at low cost but as mine has been nicked I am looking for something else (Jeckyll, Treck Fuel, Marin Wolf Ridge)and this is not easy. Unaware of any UK stock existing December 2001
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lee male
a Downhiller
from england salisbury Date Reviewed: November 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
salisbury trials
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
halfords
Strengths:
i think that the rear shock (rock shox delux) is very gooood it can take all th big hits of jumpin and big dropoffs woooohoooo its a beast
Weaknesses:
the front forx are weak im running a set of rock shox boxxers cus i use mine for downhill get rid of the race tuned gear
Similar Products Used:
canondale f600 kona king kingkikapu
Bike Setup:
full xtr group set rock shox boxxers halo combat wheels hope disks
Bottom Line:
this bikes as strong as they come get 1 turn into a trials bike/downhill/freeride/xc its good for them all
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray Cash
a Cross Country Rider
from Argyle, Wi USA Date Reviewed: October 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mound State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Eau Claire Bike
Strengths:
This bike climbs great, no bob once you get the SID rear shock tuned in. The brake pads wear very quickly, but that is because I ride in a lot of wet areas. I weigh 175 pounds and taken it off some four foot dropoffs and it hasn't come close to bottoming out
Weaknesses:
The BB pivot needs to be greased after long muddy rides.
Similar Products Used:
None, this is my first FS bike
Bike Setup:
Stock execpt for bar ends and computer
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike if you can get your hands on one cheap and be sure to get the BB pivot replacement kit from schwinn
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Winnetka, IL Date Reviewed: October 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Kettle Moraine
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Evanstons Schwinn Dealer
Strengths:
Good on the trails, but also great for jumps and drops. It is an all around good bike, with great components. Virtually no bob whatsoever, except for the fork which could be upgraded if you have the money (I would recommend getting a new fork). Easily adjustable rear suspension. Climbs like a hardtail but really dampens the fall off of mediums/high drops and jumps.
Weaknesses:
-Brakes dont perform well when wet or muddy -pinch flats occur very easily -front fork should be upgraded
Similar Products Used:
-Shwinn Moab 3 -Rocky Mountain Slayer -Giant Warp
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
it is an all around great bike, rides well, climbs well and jumps well. Good for free style as well. Light and durable with nice components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
L8APEX
a Racer
from College Park, MD, USA Date Reviewed: October 18, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Riverdale Cycle and Fitness
Strengths:
-relatively light weight frame -4 bar linkage=neutral handling -It's a Schwinn!
Weaknesses:
-Schwinn is now under Huffy or Pacific
Similar Products Used:
-1999 Schwinn 4 Banger -2000 Gary Fisher Sugar 3
Bike Setup:
Manitou X-Vert Super fork, Kooka Forged crankset, MRP Long Range Patrol chain tensioner, XT, LX, and Deore parts mix.
Bottom Line:
This is a review for the 2001 Rocket 88 Stage 3. This bike was configured as an all around trail bike that can also handle the occasional urban assault and dual slalom race. Compared to the 4 Banger, it's definitely much more efficient through pedalling sections, though not quite as direct as the Sugar. Handles just about all the hits, except for the realy monstrous ones that the 4 Banger can get a way with and the Sugar can't even come close to. Traction in the turns, traction in the climbs, and a nice balanced chasis. If Schwinn were still in business, I would give it five stars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Malcolm Lester
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch Newzealand Date Reviewed: September 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Scotty Browns
Strengths:
Stiff,nice geomtrey,well finished.Fast around corners. Descends well and inspires confidence.Doesnt Bob on the climbs.
Weaknesses:
Alittle bit heavier than I hoped.
Similar Products Used:
NX8.1, Wheeler 9900ZXI
Bike Setup:
2000 stage 3 frame. XTR Cranks,XT rest.Magura Clara disks.Easton CT2 Bar and post. Sella Italia Flite with cutout,Sid adjust rear shock.Time pedals.Thomson stem,Manitou Mars Super fork.Mavic X223 Rims, Maxxis Mimo tyres, with lite tubes.Odi grips, Coda bar ends.
Bottom Line:
I brought this frame only and built it up from a hard tail that I hated. It weighs 27Lbs all up, and is a couple of pounds more than I wanted(frame is heavier than stated) but I got a killer deal on the frame and added some really nice bits to it.Could lighten it up a bit more with lighter wheels- further down the track.Bike owes me a fortune but is a really great ride and really great downhills and inspires confidence.It doesnt bob up hills and I have passed many NRSs and such like, and blow them on the fast downhills.Being a bit heavier makes it very stiff.I have had no problems with bottom bushes, even after many muddy rides, but are getting some new lower links made up that uses a sealed bearing around the bottom bracket and this will take the potential problem awat and make it vertually mtnce free, and probably stiffer than the 2001 model.Buy this bike because the rear really works and it makes you a more confident rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Nipomo Date Reviewed: September 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
morning glory
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
This is a follow up review after a year and a half of riding.
Weaknesses:
I have to maintain the bottom bracket pivot point after 4-5 rides (dry conditions) or it will begin to squeak. My LBS did replace the pivots with the new (and hardly) improved pivots to no avail. I have tried just about every type of grease, including marine, but with so little tolerance around the pivot, the grease works its way out. Also, the "sealed" bearings in the pivot points would hardly spin. I always maintain my bike after every ride but this is ridiculous. I contacted Schwinn customer service...what a joke..they would not take care of it. No wonder the new 88's don't have a bottom bracket pivot point...it sucks!
Bottom Line:
Stay clear of the 2000 and get the 2001 model if this is the bike you are looking at. Even though the 2001s have a integrated head set, the linkage (pivots) are designed better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Buffalo Grove, IL, USA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
devils head, WS
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
BG Cyclery
Strengths:
for a FS, this thing can climb. good system. combo of ok components and an ok frame make a learner bike. great for cross country. climbs like a hardtail, but whenever you might come by a drop, its nice to have a FS.
Weaknesses:
ive had some problems with the drivetrain. derailleurs could be more responsive. brakes arent the best for quick stops, but they work good. it is a bit heavy... but hey, it does the job.
Bike Setup:
straight from the factory excuent: new wheelset- bontrager mustang ASYM/deoreXT
Bottom Line:
i havent had any serious problems with this bike. it has defenitely been its worth. it kicks but on XC trails. it keeps up with other, lighter hardtails. great learner bike. i wouldnt go downhill with this bike, but its great for a technical XC trail. it gives the support you need to kick some @$$. i wouldnt recommend this bike for racing, theres always a lighter.. and more efficient FS out there. i would recommend the cannondale jeckel, or the trek fuel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruno Bouery
a Cross Country Rider
from Valence, France Date Reviewed: June 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Grâne (south of France)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great all purpose bike...when working Comfort Incredible motricity No bob All-times best looking bike (but it's all personal)
Weaknesses:
Regular price (about 1400 bucks) for what you get with the european stock (sub-deore brakes, Jett race fork, RS De Luxe shock...) Stock weight (nearly 31 lbs) : never believe companies catalogs' weight BB pivot, of course...
Similar Products Used:
Lapierre X-Control (french FS/XC bike, praised a lot around here)
Bike Setup:
Wow, what to begin with ? Entire XT group, from rear derailleur to brake pads (except stock deore chain and BB); Mavic 517 with Sram Quarz hubs; IRC Mythos tires; Manitou SX-R front; CC AD 12 rear; EA50 seatpost; SDG Comp Ti saddle
Bottom Line:
Fell in love with this bike at first sight. Then read the bad reviews, which made me hesitate. Had the chance to go for a test ride, which got me very excited. Got a bargain with an unsold 2000 Stage 3 and went for it. Upgraded the bike to make it more reliable and lighter (about 27 lbs now). First four rides (very muddy) were awesome. I was standing on top of the world. Then BB pivot problems began...Huge slop. My LBS told me the frame has worn out. Got lucky since Schwinn Europe (wich appears to be in big trouble) sent me within 14 days a new front triangle (orange instead of black but now I'm getting used to it)with an "Insert-BB pivot". After two other muddy rides, the linkage did't function anymore. The problem is mud gets through BB pivot bushings and blocks the whole stuff. I totally agree with the review of Steve S. about stage one : I had to desassemble the pivot, clean and lube it and then everything worked fine again. But it's such a pain and you'll have to do it after every muddy ride. And I don't know how long the bushings will last. If someone has an idea to solve the problem (other than getting rid of the bike !), I take it. Too bad because otherwise the bike works great : floats on rocks up and down hills. What a difference with an hardtail ! Have hardtail racers friends which I regularly beat on technical climbs because I can quietly pass trough every rock or root that stands in front of me. And so far no mud clearance pb with the rear tire. Also the setup seems to be a good one : fork and shock (try a Cane Creek; plus, people at the company are so nice) do a good job and the SDG Comp Ti saddle is fine. The bottom line is I love this bike even if it's definitively a summer bike ! Four chilis for the joy I get riding it, despite the BB pivot pb. My advice is go and try a 2001 model, which can't have problems since there is no more BB pivot. I'm sure you will REALLY enjoy it !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R W
a Cross Country Rider
from BARRINGTON IL Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
CBMR
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Strengths:
fr and rear shocks, reliable, kind of light, overall good parts for the price
Weaknesses:
no problems yet
Similar Products Used:
raliegh
Bike Setup:
stock with xtr rear d., serfas seat, tooth fairy, and a very cool shimano flight deck
Bottom Line:
get this bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david s
a
from houston Date Reviewed: June 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
bay area schwinn
Strengths:
climbs better than other bikes, almost like my hardtail
Weaknesses:
wheels, seatpost,seat,bars
Similar Products Used:
cannondale raven
Bike Setup:
xtr rear xt front derailleurs,carramba cranks, syncros seatpostand rims, white industries hubs, real bb and brake levers,easton monkey lite bars,grip shift
Bottom Line:
for the price, the perfomance is great. I changed some parts and now have a fairly light and comfortable bike that I can ride all day.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Lucas
a Downhiller
from Christchurch,South Island, New Zealand Date Reviewed: May 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Victoira park downhill track
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Scotty Browns Cycle Save
Strengths:
Great colour,light but feels strong, very fast,good value for money,comfortable frame geometry,and it climbs like a hard tail. Its rarity in NZ draws observation and good comments.
Weaknesses:
The front wheel feels fragile,and no adjustable seat clamp. Stock tyres not wide enough.Stem too long.
Similar Products Used:
K2 Attack 3.0
Bike Setup:
Deore cranks, shifters, front derailer,Deore lx rear, mavic 221 rims, Marzoocchi Z3 shocks,Rock shock delux with adjustable damping, Pazzaz carbon fibre riser bar, Maxxis 2.1 tyres, CJ stem.
Bottom Line:
This bike feels fast and is very comfortable to ride. It climbs really well with little bob. Good entre level components. Bottom bracket pivot should be checked for tightness but I've had no problems, even when ridden aggressively and raced hard. There has been talk of little mud clearance but I raced it last weekend in the snow and mud and had no problems. The shock up grade is a must as standard front shock is not too durable. This bike can be ridden hard and fast but it is not a free ride bike, it still manages to soak up 5-6ft drop-offs anything bigger and you are outside the design parameters of the bike. Summing up- this bike is geared toward the xcountry rider, on a limted budget, ride it to the bike's limitations. I will post another review at the end of our winter - September.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from Spanish Fork, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Amasa Back
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Mad Dog Cycles
Strengths:
Stiff rear suspension (doesn't bob too much). Frame geometry (climbs like a hardtail).
Weaknesses:
Rear suspension linkage system (see below). Wheels. Long bar stem. Weight (28 lbs). Front shock is too plush after 1200 miles. Mud clearance.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar 4.
Bike Setup:
LX front d, XT rear, Deore cranks, Judy Race, Thompson 110 bar stem (switched for stock Titec), Mavic 221 wheels, Sid rear shock.
Bottom Line:
This bike is a good buy for the price. However, there is a problem with the rear suspension linkage system that those other riders have not yet noticed. The bottom link of the system (connects to the bottom bracket) is flawed and will bend with very intense riding. When mine bent I was told that there was a recall and they replaced it with another link (different than the original link). This worked for a couple hundred miles. Now it has considerable play in it and makes the bike significantly less stiff than it should be. Schwinn is sending me a new front triangle (frame) and they claim that this will solve the problem. We'll see. The point is that buying the bike off the floor will not necessarily give you a bike that you can ride for a long time without significant problems. True, I ride a lot. But I have only had it for 6 months! This bike is not for very serious riders apparently, but rather for the weekend warrior who wants full-suspension. If you race or train seriously go for the Sugar or the Fuel! Also, I should point out that the Judy Race is a shock that does not take much of a beating. Indeed, it seems to become too plush too quickly. I guess a new pair of springs could help.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt nonna yer business
a Racer
from Greensboro,Nc,usa Date Reviewed: April 14, 2001
Very pleased w/ bike!!!!!!!!anyone lookin' for a versitile mtb race bike that wants a f/s and dowsn't have a butt load of money, this is the bike for u!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn Dugan
a Racer
from Atascadero Date Reviewed: April 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Cera Alto
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Built it
Strengths:
I swiched the sid for the fox float R. Works like a dream.
Weaknesses:
The bushings in the bottom bracket pivot point wear out. It is a huge pain to order them from the company.
Similar Products Used:
Ventana El Fuego
Bike Setup:
Sram 9.0sl everything. Except levers and front Der. Sid SL front fork. Fox Float R on the back.
Bottom Line:
Well, this bike is a great climber when you put the float R on the back. I tries to make my bike as light as possable. I am going to turn expert this year (2001) and this bike isn't cut out for that kind of Racing. I decited to go hard tail with the Ventana El Chiquillo. I like the Ventana El Fuego better then the rockett, but that probly why it costs so much. If you are thinking about selling your 88, get the bushing replacement kit for your buyer, cause they have to pay for it, you get it on warentee. My ratings are for Hardcore racers only. Otherwise its a really good bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Cross Country Rider
from uk Date Reviewed: March 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$940.00
Purchased At:
pauls cycles uk
Strengths:
only had it a few days but it is very fast and smooth
Weaknesses:
found that the manual was a bit vage when it came to setting up the shox. i am 6'5" and it doesn't tell you what spring rating you need for my weight.
Bike Setup:
As it came
Bottom Line:
very nice bike worth the money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Wingate
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester NH USA Date Reviewed: March 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
lake massabesic trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
naults bicycles manchester NH
Strengths:
What can i say?, this bike is going to keep me riding happily for years to come! Schwinn has allways been a leader in true quality as well as performance, and as far as stock parts,dont feel at all cheated,stock parts do not make the bike and are often something we swap off due to preference. I,ve not yet ridden this bike,(as it was purchased this morning.), but if you have allready read the previous reviews,BELIEVE THEM!
Weaknesses:
None to date but will post an update when i breake her in.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn moab3 and the 1998 schwinn S30
Bike Setup:
deore for the most part except for the rear XT deraileur,(wich I actually prefer over XTR.) The judy race is a nice perc and seems very plush.
Bottom Line:
this bike is the result of fine craftsmanship as well as a true knack for improving on the old. I have ridden schwinn since i was about ten years old and I am allmost thirty now, they have never given me a reason to choose another!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Shepard
a
from Michigan Date Reviewed: January 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
vasa
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
light fast, and very powerful all purpose full supsension
Weaknesses:
Judy race broke during the first 100 miles i had it, but rock shock sent a brand new 2001 judy race and now it rides better than ever, the brakes suck and are the only true peice of crap on the bike, they should be changed out immediatly.
Similar Products Used:
cannondale jekel,
Bike Setup:
stock with the change of brakes, handlebar, and seatpost changed to hayes fully hydro disc brakes, monkeylite riser bar, and a easton seatpost
Bottom Line:
bottom line this bike kicks ass, it accelerates, it climbs, and it desends like no other. If anyone buys this bike should look into upgrading the brakes imediatly to hayes fully hrydo, it worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stu
a Cross Country Rider
from Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. Date Reviewed: December 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Cumberland Cycles (Adelaide)
Strengths:
-Very fast and responsive; great handling. -No biopacing during acceleration or while climbing, yet the rear suspension works well when you need it. -Light weight. -Copious amounts of grip cornering. -Frame is sturdy and the bike is aesthetically pleasing. -Nice long cockpit. -Supremely capable both uphill and downhill. -Same frame and geometry as the Stage 1.
Weaknesses:
-When you have the chain on the smallest chainring and the smallest freewheel cogs, it approaches the chain stay very closely from the under side. However, a bike should not be ridden with such a crooked-chain configuration anyhow. -Sometimes when I land the front wheel crookedly the forks make a slightly disturbing sound. -The forks tend to bob up and down a lot sometimes when you pedal, but this is only when I forget about pedalling circles and just mesh the pedals down. Maybe this feeling is accentuated by the lack of movement in the efficient rear end. -No major weaknesses.
Similar Products Used:
None; this is my first mountain bike.
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Jett Race fork (75mm). Shimano Deore all round except the rear derailleur, which is Deore LX. IRC Mythos XC tyres. Rear suspension has a Rock Shox Deluxe Rebound Adjust coil over shock. Ride Tuned handlebars, stem and seat post (very nice). Wellgo pedals - clipless one side, normal the other side - this is very handy.
Bottom Line:
Many have complained about the Deore brakes on this bike, but all you need do is apply sufficient force to the brake levers and you will get ample braking power. When I squeeze the front brakes hard either the back wheel lifts off the ground or the front wheel skids. Therefore the only limit to braking power is the rider. I have never had to squeeze the brakes especially hard to achieve this power.
The well balanced setup on the Rocket 88 allows you to blissfully rail through variable terrain (and any terrain) at preposterous speeds while the bike maintains its line and handles faultlessly. Uphill and downhill riding are both a breeze. Jumping this bike is great fun as well.
The Rocket 88 suspension has a sportscar feel. Though it is not particularly smooth (as a more downhill-specific bike might be), the action feels precise and is not sloppy at all. The result is a snappy, performance-oriented ride, but the Stage 3 still irons the harsh edge off any obstacles.
The Schwinn Rocket 88 Stage 3 is a capable cross country bike that delivers in all aspects of its performance. However, I would not recommend it to those looking for a plush downhiller or big air freeride machine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego Date Reviewed: November 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
PQ Canyon (still), Scripps Trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Wow! Kudos to the other guy that found this bike for $750 at REI. Amaaaaazing deal. This bike is light (27lbs), strong as heck, and performs with the best of them. It is a supreme XC ride. It handles downhills with ease (even though it's a bit stiffer than a radical FS) and it climbs like a mountain goat.
Weaknesses:
Nothing serious, only annoying...the Judy Race fronts squeek sometimes...sounding like a small barking dog. I thought I was being followed at first. ;)
All stock except for Serfas DDS-RX Saddle and MotoAce Salsa 10 deg stem. However, STOCK means 100mm Judy race forks, SID air rear shock, hellbent handlebars, Ritchey clipless, Deore all around (XT rear), Mavic 221 wheels, Michelin wildgrippers, etc
Bottom Line:
This is a three month update on my previous review. I found that the 17" cockpit was the right size, but because of my leg length (and seat height) I needed to replace the flat titec stem with one that gave me a little more height on the handlebars. Once I did this I reduced my body's desire to fly over the handlebars on slow, technical downhills. ;) I've driven this bike over just about everything in the last few months, from rocky runoff gullys to residential canyons to combo XC trails. I've gotten the SID rear dialed in with 170/160 (I'm 210lbs), but I need to put a stiffer spring in the Judys (little too much pre-load on the stock). While this bike will never be confused with a plush downhiller, it's very capable, stable, and responsive heading down the hills. I used to think it would take an act of God to get my big a$$ up a long climb, but really all it took was this bike. There is very little (if any) power loss and no bob with this SID set right, and I've been able to climb hills that before I would look at and say "yeah, right". Bottom line...this bike makes you a better rider. Isn't this all what we really need?
So, if you're looking for an affordable ride that's plusher than a hardtail but more solid than a typical FS - THIS, my friends in your bike. I give it 5 flamers in both categories, and if there was a higher score for "value" I'd select it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reini
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlotte, NC, USA Date Reviewed: November 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Local Schwinn Dealership
Strengths:
Very good at everything. Great components for what I paid for it. A lot of shops are discounting it. Judy (race), Deore (all over), SID (dual air), Titec (riser, handlebars), STOCK! Extremely light. Fast.
Weaknesses:
Didn't come with lube or oil for shocks. Guess I should have asked for it, but the bike is great!
Similar Products Used:
Demo'ed Warp DS-1, Schwinn Mesa, others.
Bike Setup:
Deore-cranks, rear and front derailleurs, Shifters, Brake levers, rear and front brakes, Titec- Hell-bent handlebars, riser, Rock Shox- Judy race fork(63,80,100 mm of travel) XXX seals (took off fork boots and they look like SID's), SID dual Air rear shock with easily adjustable compression (no external rebound), SDG- Bel Air saddle.
Bottom Line:
I was really interested in the Warp DS! from Giant, until I looked upon this bike in the window of my LBS. I thought it was out of my price range of around $1,000. I looked at Mesa's and other bikes until I curiosly wandered into the full suspension part of the store. I turned out that it was on sale and I bought it for $1,000. Best choice I have ever made. This bike handles great on the trails and i have tuned it to fit my 120 pound, 15 year old frame. Judy's work great at soaking up the bumps, because I have it at the 100 mm travel setting with 3 wt. oil. I've also got the SID in the back working at 120 psi in the main chamber, and 100 psi in the second chamber. The ride is sooooo plush and does not bob when pedaling. I have already put in about thirty miles of trails in the week of having this bike. Deore works much better than I expected. I can't tell the difference between these and the higher end models. Brakes will throw you over the handlebars and suspension bas already gone through four foot drops. The ride is comfortable and the bike feels tight. If you can find yourself a good deal on this bike, GET IT! Great beginner, or for that matter, expert XC bike. SCHWINN RULES!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Raleigh, NC, USA Date Reviewed: November 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Bike seems to be very tight, well put together. It's also extemely light for a dual suspension.
Weaknesses:
Maybe the clearance on the rear wheel. It hasn't been a problem yet though. Also, I would have spec'd a little higher shifters and brakes.
Bottom Line:
So far I think this is the best deal I've seen. You can have a near exotic bike with just a few cool upgrades. I feel fortunate to score the last 2000 from REI for $750. I couldn't afford not to buy it. It's still new to me, so I'll write another review after I've put it through it's paces. It is so similar to it's $2300 Stage 1 big brother I love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CaptainNachos
a Cross Country Rider
from CA Date Reviewed: October 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Rock It
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
a bike shop
Strengths:
Super fast. 27 lbs out of the box! Nice and stiff if you want it...adjust the rear shock if you want to use the full rear travel. Titec/XT/Wildgrippers/Judy Race/Ritchie Logitec pedals/SID rear shock/Hollowtech cranks......
Weaknesses:
None Yet
Similar Products Used:
GT XCR 3000, Trek 8500
Bike Setup:
Out of the box
Bottom Line:
Spectacular bike for the buck. It's stiff enough that you can get out of the saddle and hammer up the hills and plush enough to give you that extra control and comfort coming down. It's amazingly light and packed with high quality parts for the price. Haven't had a single problem with it. I got mine for $900 with my shop discount. If you can find it for $750...well...WOW! That's $60 below wholesale! Way to go! BTW don't worry about reading the reviews for a 1999 Rocket 88....2000 was the first year they made 'em! ;)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from San Diego Date Reviewed: October 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
PQ Canyon, Mission Trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Yes, you saw that right, only $750 at REI!
Strengths:
Great components all around, stiff rear, lightweight (27lbs)
Weaknesses:
None identified yet (except the frame design isn't very exciting for a softail)
All stock except for Serfas DDS-RX Saddle. However, STOCK means Judy race forks, SID air rear shock, Titec stem & hellbent handlebars, Ritchey clipless, Deore all around (XT rear), Mavic 221 wheels, Michelin wildgrippers, and on and on...
Bottom Line:
Wow I had been looking for a stiff XC bike (I'm 210lbs) in the $600 - $900 range and was faced with the usual suspects - xlink, rockhopper A1, and some of the new GT i-drive bikes. I found some nice sales around for these items ($825 for the GT i-drive 5.0), but all of them were equipped in the "Acera/Deore/Suntour drive train range, with Magnum or Jett fork, Rapid Fire shifters, and a generic (or at best Fox Vanilla) rear shock. Then I just happened to stumble into REI to pick up my Yakima copperhead and there sat this Stage 3 with a sign that said "Special $999 (Originally $1,300). Well, I hadn't considered the bike before because it was always out of my price range and I had been looking at the more radical design softails, but what the heck...a deal is a deal, right? So I took it for a test spin and WOW! The stiffer rear (150/160lbs in the SID) was awesome, the bike was light, and the Judy race were solid. Cripes...now I had to re-think my purchase (I had decided on the GT for $825). When I handed the salesperson the helmet he said "oh yeah, that bike is on clearance". I said "I know, $999, nice deal". He said (drumroll), "No, it's $749". I couldn't get my credit card out fast enough. I almost forgot about the Yakima that I went in there for. I've putzed around on the local trails around 9pm last night (freaked out the coyotes), and I can't wait to take this thing out for a 1/2 day trip. So, bottom line, if you are looking for a bike and have an REI near you (or even try on-line), you absolutely cannot beat this deal! People on here that paid $1200 and more love this bike! Good luck, and great riding!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a Weekend Warrior
from San Marcos,CA Date Reviewed: October 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Los Poses
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
No bobbing, good components, Looks, Price!!
Weaknesses:
Brakes could be better
Similar Products Used:
DBR, GT XCR 2000(demo)
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is great!! After the first couple of rides I checked all the suspension bolts and found one that had come looose, but have had no problems since. The only other problem I have had is breaking the rear spokes every once in a while. This is my 1st full suspension bike and I have no complaints.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anth.
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne , Victoria , Australia Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wombat State forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
MBC
Strengths:
Value for money. Nothing else I looked at in this bike's peer group came close for value. Quality build , very good overall component mix. Lightweight for a budget duallie.
Weaknesses:
Jett race forks ( a little too plush for my 90kg frame ) , cheesy pedals , weinmann schrader valve rims( give me presta , presta , presta ).
Similar Products Used:
None , however I looked at just about every other bike in the same price range ie; GT , specialized , et all.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for mavic X138 rims and shimano 545's (I love these pedals!).
Bottom Line:
This bike cannot be beaten for value. Anyone who is a hardcore hardtailer should maybe check the stage 3 out , it changed my mind about duallies.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Biff
a Cross Country Rider
from So Cal Date Reviewed: September 2, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
used
Strengths:
Racing geometry, lack of bobbing in the suspension.
Weaknesses:
Not into riser bars for XC, Deore components
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Super V, Specialized FSR-XC
Bike Setup:
Full XT/XTR components, Englund 100mm air carts in the fork, flat bars, bar-ends.
Bottom Line:
I'm glad that companies are finally making XC-specific full-suspension bikes. It rides like a racing hardtail, but with a lot more comfort and control.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J. G.
a Weekend Warrior
from FLOWERY BRANCH, GA Date Reviewed: August 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
HARD PACKED AND LOTS OF DOWN
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
UNBREAKABLE, FAST, LIGHT, GREAT ALL AROUND PACKAGE
Weaknesses:
JUDY SQUEAKS AT FIRST BUT NOW ITS GOING AWAY GROUND CLEARANCE A LITTLE TO LOW BUT I WILL LEARN TO GET OVER IT.PEDALS AND BRAKES WILL BE UPGRADED ONE DAY
Similar Products Used:
D'BACK SORRETO UPGRADED ALMOST UNRECOGNIZABLE IF IT BROKE I UPGRADED IT PLUS LOW BUDGET RST 281 FRONT SHOCK
Bike Setup:
STOCK
Bottom Line:
NEW TO THE SPORT THIS IS MY FIRST HIGH DOLLAR BIKE FIRST 27 SPEED. IT IS ALL I NEED. THE D'BACK I RODE MAYBE TWICE A MONTH TO MOSTLY STAY IN SHAPE NOW I RIDE MORE THAN TWICE A WEEK HAVING A BLAST NO FEAR GOING DOWNHILL AND UPHILL IS A BREEZE WITH THE D'BACK DOWNHILL SOMETIMES MEANT WITHOUT THE BIKE AND UP HILL WAS MORE LIKE HIKING NO COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE D'BACK I JUST WISH WOULD HAVE FOUND THIS BIKE SOONER WHAT A DIFFERENCE. I RIDE HARD AND FAST AND GET IN THE AIR (JUMPING) A LOT THIS BIKE LAUGHS AND YELLS RIGHT ALONG WITH ME
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad Albrich
a
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: August 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Don't have one yet
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Bike N' Hike
Strengths:
A pure joy to ride. This bike is smooth, quick, easy to maintain speed on long straight flat areas, and a thrill downhill. It climbs very well. I rode a friends $1600 Cannondale and I could feel the rear shock absorb some of my peddle power. I don't ever feel that on the Rocket 88 stage three. However, when I don't want to feel bumps on the trail the rear shock absorbs them perfectly.
Weaknesses:
Brakes and cheap protective tube strips on the rims. I have had three flats in one month. I finally was told to replace the strip in the rims for cloth strips yesterday so I will see if that works.
As far as the brakes go I don't like their stopping power. my girlfriend has a Schwinn Frontier, which is a $319 bicycle, and that bike stops better then the rocket. Also, the brake pads are noisy (grind sound in the front). If I replace anything on this bike it would be the brakes. Although, maybe I just got a bad set. These brakes are the Shimano Deore that come stock with the Rocket 88 stage three.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I haven't had a bike since I transformed my Schwinn Stingray into a BMX back in 1980 when I was eight years old. I shopped around for Mbikes for about one week before deciding on this one. I did not want to spend too much, but I didn't want to spend not enough either. The Rocket 88 stage three worked out perfectly. However, three days before I came home with it I came home with a Moab stage three for $650. I went on a camping trip with friends, left the bike at home to think about it, and realized I really wanted full suspension. So, for $450 more I got a great full suspension bike that has turned out to have only minor turnoffs that probably would not bother everyone else. I am a very anal person when it comes to perfection--hence my dissatisfaction with the breaks. The rims popping the tires would upset anyone though.
I am not giving the Rocket 88 stage three a 5 out of 5 rating because there is always a need for room at the top.
Great bike! Go get one and enjoy the ride!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ej178
a Cross Country Rider
from Nipomo, CA, US Date Reviewed: August 14, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
good set up, light frame....climbs well Deore stuff works great...no weight weenies here can't beat at price point
Weaknesses:
factory clipless (ritchey) are tough to get into not much adjustment on Judy Race saddle looks cool but is way uncomfortable
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR...several models
Bike Setup:
replaced the pedals with speedplays
Bottom Line:
Great bike for a great price...$850 with same frame as stage one. No other manufacturer (that I could find) came close with this component set up. My butt thanks the rear Sid every time. Virtually no bob on climbs if you get it set up for your weight. Stock Michelins are OK. Only prob is in the small ring the chain is only about an inch away from the chain stay which means major chain slap. I put on a small piece of rubber tubbing with some zip ties...prob solved. If you are looking to go from a hardtail/rigid to a full suspension, without face planting your wallet, this is the ticket. With a little fine tuning you can plow down most anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keith G.
a Weekend Warrior
from Bristol, TN. USA Date Reviewed: July 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Steele Creek Knobs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Lightweight, climbs like a hardtail, fast, best buy
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock except Panaracer Fire XC 1.8 and ultralight tubes
Bottom Line:
This bike is fast and quite light for its price range. This bike climbs like a hardtail....the rear suspension works well keeping the rear wheel hookedup. I made this bike faster by swapping the stock Michelins for Panaracer Fire XC 1.8s and ultralight tubes.....both a lighter and faster tire. This bike is made to be ridden hard and fast XC.. it is not a 4x4. I plan to slowly upgrade the components...with the most costly upgrade to be a RS Sid Race fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J. Wolf
a Weekend Warrior
from Humboldt County, California Date Reviewed: June 12, 2000
No external rebound adjuster on the SID rear shock. But if you take the time to set it up correctly it won't be a problem.
Similar Products Used:
Treks, GT's, FSR's, Gary Fisher's Sugar, DB, Marin's.
Bike Setup:
Had dealer swap the in a Manitou SX R front shock for the Rock Shox Judy Race.
Bottom Line:
You can't beat this bike for the price. It weighs only 27 lbs and costs around $1200. I've read all the reviews that say this bike doesn't have enough mud clearence. And I agree it would apear that way. HOWEVER, I live in Humboldt County California, in the heart of the redwood forest. I have ridden this bike through mud most people have only dream of, and never had a problem with the clearence. So don't believe the hype. I test rode many different full suspension mountian bikes before deciding on the rocket 88. None were as smooth or as responsive. The rocket had zero bob and climbed like a goat on roids. I swiched the front fork to a Manitou SX R because I believe they make a better product than Rock Shox. It is fully adjustable and has the mini grease ports for easy lubeing. If you choose the Rocket 88, you will be a happy camper.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren
a
from Canada Date Reviewed: June 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
GREAT BIKE! Good looks and the rear suspension is AWESOME! Nice color's and very attractive lookin' Have fun
Weaknesses:
The front breaks, you must squeeze pretty hard to have a full stop in less than 1 second.
Similar Products Used:
None ( this bike is the best one!)
Bike Setup:
Very good
Bottom Line:
GO GET THIS BIKE!!! The bike is fairly cheap for the statistics/spec on the bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron H
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, IL, USA Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
John Muir Trails @ Kettle Morrain State Park In Wisconson
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The rear suspension is not only plush enough to give superior control but also doesnt bob at all. If you have a refined spin you will not notice any bob while climbing as well. The price point for the bike is great, there are no bikes in this price range to compare the weight and performance of the Rocket. It climbs well, I can stay seated on a steep climb or I can stand and hammer and it does both very well.
Weaknesses:
The cable guide for the rear derailer gets crimped by the suspension movement if you dont remove it. No Bar ends on any Rocket even Stage One?
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y-Bike, Cannondale Jekyl, FSR XC Pro
Bike Setup:
XT V-brakes (get Rid of the Deore) Terry Fly seat with Titanium rails.
Bottom Line:
This bike is great, I have rode bikes that cost thousands more and dont perform as well. I think the reason every magazine gives it a hard time is due to the hypothetical lack of mud clearance, however I dont believe it will be as big a problem as the mud clearance on XC suspension forks. The best thing about this bike is that it shares the same frame as the Stage One, this means you can Have your cake and eat it too! You can simply upgrade to what ever performance level you choose. The stock set up is not bad at all for the price, I would recommend changing Brakes and the saddle first. I am very pleased with the all around performance of the stock Michelins as well, they are very light tires as well, but they hook up great on hard pack. Any one looking for a XC full suspension rig should ride the Rocket. It is light and handles well. If you are looking for a free ride long travel bike I would not recommend the Rocket. Even though the rear travel is plush by XC standards it is not enough travel for big time drop offs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Morse
a Cross Country Rider
from Spokane Wa Date Reviewed: May 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Riverside State Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The bike climbs with incredible grip and ease, corners on hard pack with loose rocks like glue. I like the bike because at a glance it looks like a conversional hard tail but its not! The rear shock takes the beating out but doesn't leave you feeling like your riding a pogo stick. The air rear shock is a two stage so you can realy fine tune it. My first ride was a 20 milers and when I was done I felt like I had ridden about 13 or 14.
Weaknesses:
Factory clip less pedals are to small so I upgraded to a larger pedal that has a platform around the clip makes it easier to get your feet in the clip. I also went with a new seat, the factory seat looks great (small) but I didn't want to have it surgically removed. When I stand up and get over the front of the bike pedaling hard up hill the front shocks bobbed heavily but I have the Judy as soft as they go, and at 210 lbs I probably need to stiffen-em up.
Similar Products Used:
1996 Schwinn Moab.02
Bike Setup:
Factory for now other than the upgrade on the pedals.
Bottom Line:
I researched all the full suspension bikes in the $1000 to $1400 range using primarily this web site. When it came down to it the value and reviews made the Rocket stage three the obvious choice. For the money I think its the one, not to mention the killer looks! I was right at $1200 with some accessories like the shock pump etc.. I give it all the chilies, the weaknesses can all be easily remedied with fine tuning and a good dealer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris stenger
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, Arizona Date Reviewed: March 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hawes Road, South Mt., and then trail 206 in payson
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
I have ridden this bike from two to four times a week since I got it. A really sweet suspension design, very tunable( air shock), it is hard to believe the ride quality for the amount of money I paid for it, and for that amount of money it's the lightest bike I have seen reviewed. In fact the fsr that is the same wieght is a grand more, and the component spec doesen't make up for it, there posts bend and there pedels suck. And comparing the two bikes next to each other I am more reasured by the solid looking schwinn design, than the long thin linkages found on the FSR's.
Weaknesses:
I had a strange thing happen to me with my bike. When I purchased my bike I was told the adjustable JUDY Race fork was set up at 100 mm's. After my first ride I realized that this was not so, and I also noticed some play in my headset, no big deal. Well I took my bike back to the dealer running perfectly otherwise to have these two things looked at. The mechanic who sold me the bike got sort a huffy about me wanting him to change the travel on the fork. After a few attempts to get out of it he said he would do it but that it was going to be my 30 day tune-up. This seemed like crap to me cause I bought the bike thinking that the 100 mm front fork and a softer rear set up on a XC suspension design would give me the perfect mix between freeride hog and racer X. In the end I got a little angry and gave a litle guilt trip telling him that there was no way a bike that was ridden one day should need a 30 day tune. So two days later I get my bike back, I kinda rode it a minute around the parking lot at home to see what the longer stroke was like and I put it away till the weekend. A funny thing happend when I got out to the trail that weekend. The bike that was shifting perfectly upon entering the shop, decided to continuely miss shift, ghost shift, and generally suck in any way shifting was concerned. Coincedence, maybe but I could just see me bringing the bike back in to the shop and hearing that guy tell me how the bike really did need the 30 day tune up and that the reason he sugested it was cause he could see that the bike needed adjustment. Ya whatever... The Morale of the story, don't p*ss off your bike mechanic!! at least not untill you have your bike back...
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback, Cannondale, K2, Wheeler, GT, Specialized and KHS. I was really close to getting an FSR or a Diamondback. The FSR cause everybody gave it rave reviews last year. And the Diamondback cause they got back on track to the light wieght active full suspension XC bikes before everyone else and they don't really get any credit for it.
Bike Setup:
Thompson Elite post. Out of five mt. bikes, I have never bought one that had a stock post that was long enough even on the largest frames. And since I had to zero the rear derailer and start over I went ahead and switched out the Avid breaks and LX shifters from my old bike. Plus when I first got the bike they had the breaks set up loose( liability), and the bike goes way faster than the hardtail I was used to so the first upgrade I was going to do is get some Arch rivals or something, hence needing seperate shifter pods. Then I adjusted the breaks q:^)
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, I am going to keep this bike for a long time, I am going to slowly upgrade this bike so that it is the best it can be, the frame deserves the best parts it can get. This bike has seriously stoked the fire I have for mt. biking. I am not that great of a rider, I am not that agressive, not that fit, nor that dedicated. That being said I can't believe how much better of a rider my rocket has made me. The speed, the traction, the springing off jumps, the landings, being able to stay seated up knarley climbs. I can totally decide what line I want to take not which line I have to take. My brother is comming into town this weekend so I put my hardtail from last year back together from stealing parts so he could ride it. Tonight I went on a little ride at south mountain to make sure everything is working ok. Riding my old hardtail after my rocket really made me realize just how much better a rider my rocket has made me. I cleaned things that I havent since last year, my technique, my climbing, even my jumping have really improved. Part of this is that my rocket is that good of a bike, part of it is that cause I like riking my rocket so much I am riding more than I have in a year and a half. Bottom line for the price of this ride you can't go wrong. This bike makes a killer trail bike, or set up firm a great XC racer. More travel would lead to less efficiency and unless you can afford high end customs it leads to more weight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris stenger
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, Arizona Date Reviewed: February 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
SOUTH MOUNTAIN/46th lot , East Loop, dirt road up mormon, down national alil up then Down Javelina
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The creative aproach to suspension, for all the efficiency conscious riders out there this bike is it. The suspension is truely not effected in any way by the drivetrain with the shock set up right. Yes your bodies wild gyrations as you desperatly try to upset the ride can effect the suspension, but you look like a dork peddling at 100+ rpm in the granny gear across the parking lot anyway.
Weaknesses:
MBA's test riders gave Rocket 88 stage one, (same frame) a wishy washy good reveiw, dissing it for lack of mud clearance, being stiff, and for being heavy compared to other bikes tested in that issue. The mud clearance I can see, but being that they didn't ride it in the mud,(they didn't say they did and the picture's are in the desert) it seems unfair to dis it so strongly, mention it yes. And as far as being heavy compared to the other bikes tested in that issue. The "cheapest" one's frame,(Aeon Isis) cost's more than I paid for my whole bike, yea they d*m well better be lighter! I think in general the MBA guys ride to many four thousand dollor bikes to be open minded about affordable bikes anyway, and they almost never like anything new. As far as being stiff it's a SID shock, if you don't like the ride get out the pump and adjust it don't blame the bike for lack of a good set up. That being said the only weekness I see is not including the pump with the bike, its like not giving you cleets with clipless peddles. But this is something 90% of the industry is guilty of.
Similar Products Used:
I've ridden suspension bikes from Diamondback, Cannondale, K2, Wheeler, GT, Specialized and KHS. I think that "some" of them just add more travel to disguise a so so suspension design. To be honest I liked most of them, with the specialized fsr being a close pick. But the Rocket really is different than other dualies. You don't sag through half your travel when you sit on the bike, and it doesn't get all roller coasty when you shift your wieght around or stand up and hammer. It really feels alot like a hardtail, except the the rocks and the ruts and the drops just don't seem that bad anymore.
Bike Setup:
New bike still stock, as always there are some things I would like to replace eventually for weight savings, (it's about 27lbs with the 21"frame). But everything works well so far, no need to upgrade just for the cool brand name hanging off my bike.
Bottom Line:
Two years ago this bike would have cost twice as much, I paid 1388.88 (for a Rocket 88 >:^) with 7.75% AZ tax. I don't think there is another bike in this price point that can compete with it in performance or weight. I actually still haven't totally gotten used to how fast I can get on this bike. I'll be flyin down the trail, and then wam some short technical climb and I'm in the wrong gear and scramblin to stand up and peddle through it. With alot of dual bikes standing up makes the bike do crazy things but it doesn't even phaze my Rocket. Depending on how you have the shock adjusted this bike can be a great trail bike, not the most travel but plenty for me and exceedingly efficient at climbing. And with the shock set a little tighter it makes an unbelievable XC bike ready for the weight saving upgrades. Thats another great thing about this bike. The stage three has the same frame as the stage one, so you know that as far as weight goes it's just upgrades away. So "bottom line" I really like this bike, if your looking for a competent affordable trail/xc bike this is it. If your looking for a more freeride long travel bike, it's not. Simple no big deal, we all have our differences in how we ride and whats a priority for us in a mountain bike. But for a do everything kinda bike I think the rocket rules.
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