Submitted by
Sean van der Veen
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose CA Date Reviewed: September 29, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Almaden/Quicksilver to Lexington
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Private seller
Strengths:
Great gearing, components, light as hell, great design for rear shock absorbtion, high levels of and easy adjustment, i have been riding for years and have ridden lots of bikes and this is a great bike. One of my favorites. So much so that I think I will Keep this one. The frame is ultra strong and seems like it will last.
Weaknesses:
This bike is so light the downhill is work for speed freak thrills, no disc brakes sucks!
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fischer level betties, Ellsworths, Santa Cruz, Giants, White Brothers, Proflex (yes i'm that old) before they were K2 you name it
Bike Setup:
hooked up judy T2's the whole nine yards
Bottom Line:
Bad ass all around for the era i love this bike one of my faves worth the 600 bucks fer sure if your thinkin bout buyin you wont be dissapointed
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sparkybobh
a Weekend Warrior
from oldguybobh@comcast.net Date Reviewed: August 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Iron Horse Trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
Livermore Cyclery
Strengths:
Great all-around performer. Jump-on and it is ready to go.
Weaknesses:
Front Manitou fork is the weak link to this entire ride.
Bike Setup:
Stock....getting ready to update the LX Shimano F & R derailleures with XTR stuff and go to 9 speed. Putting Avid Juicy disc brakes upgraded rims. Definitely losing the Manitou forks!
Bottom Line:
Love it and have been riding it for 10 years. Will now be treating it to a make-over. If you are looking for a great middle of the pack solid ride, you will love it. All of you with a desire to have the most trick ride will want to move on and add another couple of thousand bucks to the purchase price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kick Ass
a Downhiller
from victoria b.c Date Reviewed: April 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
whistler
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
its so good even now you can do anything on it and it will handle it, pretty good looks and it can fit a 2.6 gazzalodi on back this bike rules
Weaknesses:
the back shock is way to small but you can get the betd linkage thing which is nice and yeah thats about all the weaknesses
Similar Products Used:
bighit iunno
Bike Setup:
99 fsr,8 inch hayes discs with avid bb7 calipers,03 boxxer races,gazzalodis 3.0 on front 2.6 on back,amoebea handle bars,blackspire stem,fsa the pig headset,deoere xt shifters and derailueres,race face cranks with bashgaurd and race face bottom bracket,double track rim on front and single track on back,and some other parts that are good only thing stock is the frame and rear linkage
Bottom Line:
if this bike has good parts on it it rules so much its so niiice get this bike and fix it up if you can
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew Thornburg
a Weekend Warrior
from vancuver, Washington, USA Date Reviewed: August 27, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
The bike kicks ass
Weaknesses:
But the chain sucks
Bottom Line:
Make a better chain
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland NZ Date Reviewed: October 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
ooh so many
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$560.00
Purchased At:
Trademe
Strengths:
Great geometry, fully upgradable, still looks good out on the trail.
Weaknesses:
Some components
Similar Products Used:
Zip, fist full suss bike.
Bike Setup:
All stock except, duke xc's, avid discs, wtb dual duty wheels and minime stem.
Bottom Line:
Imported stuff over here is pretty expensive (depending on the exchange rate), so when i managed to pick up this bike off trademe, for the price, it was bargain. That said, i'm pretty stoked with the bike and have been riding it for well over a year now. Have already started to upgrade components, not because they've failed, but mainly to suit my riding style and utilise newer, more highly speced parts. The bike still gets a good look over by people i see riding the trails, so the design has'nt really aged :) The Dukes have transformed the front end, slightly altering the geometry, but making for a more comfotable and confident ride. The wheelset allows me to be more aggresive when going for it, the stock mavic 138's are for commuting bikes only and dont deserve to be on a trail and the original dia comps where just plain shocking. Initially upgraded to avid arch rival 5's, (best vees out there) but now have installed avid BB7 dic brake's with spd dial 7 levers. This setup rivals most of the hydros on the market, but cheaper and more maintenance free. If i do need to replace anything else, i will, but if it ain't broken, i don't need to fix it. Well done specialized for a great piece of kit, will buy another one for sure but not until this ones dead!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Mason
a Weekend Warrior
from Winnipeg, MB Date Reviewed: April 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ANything with drops
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Bicycle world
Strengths:
Reliable, upgradable frame
Weaknesses:
All of the stock components, except the frame. Can't run a rear tire that is bigger then 2.3 (2.1 Tioga)
Similar Products Used:
Tested an demo'd so many FS bikes its unreal, and the only thing that I have ridden that is beter is a intense.
Bike Setup:
Starting at the front: Mavic D521 rim, Maxxis 2.5 High Roller tire, XT disc hub, XT disc brake, 2000 Bomber Jr T fork, Radical Ingot stem(cheap but works), Bontanger Crow Bar, FSA Pig head set, LX sift pods, Avid 1.9 rear brake lever, Intense lockon grips, stock seat post, Tioga Multi Control II seat, RaceFace Prodigy DH cranks, RaceFace ISSIS drive BB, Wellgo B-37 Flat pedels, Rhino Lite rear rim, Maxxis 2.35 Mofo DH rear tire, stock rear hub.
Bottom Line:
This is my 5th year with the bike and I don't regret owning it one bit. The things that I didn't like I changed. The things that I have broke I replaced, and the bike just like the energizer bunny keeps going and going. This year I am beefing up the rear of the bike by replacing the rear suspension with pieces from BetD (link and swingarm), and Risse(seat stays and jupiter-5r shock) so I can fit a bigger tire, get more travel, and use a disc in the rear. I may also up-grade the fork to either a new Jr T or a MR T. The Crow Bar was susposed to be a tempory fix for the old stock bar but I like the way it feels and beleive it or not its actually lighter then the stock bar al it replaced and I cut 2" off the old bar to boot. Either way this bike will be in my stable till the frame brakes or I do. If the frame goes before I do I will move up to an Uzzi slx and hang the busted frame in a place of honour on the wall. I give this bike 5/5 in both value and overall because were else can you find a frame that going strong after 5 years of hard riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SCUBAPRO
a Weekend Warrior
from Laguna Beach, CA USA Date Reviewed: September 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
San Juan
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Private Party
Strengths:
Great Frame, Nice 4-bar linkage
Weaknesses:
All the components on it suck specially the crank and the BB.
Similar Products Used:
Only Specialized
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla RLC FORX, King Headset, Avid Disc Brakes, Thomson Stem, MRP Springs-bearings-Bash Guard, XTR Drivetrain, XT-Sun Rhyno Wheelset.
Bottom Line:
The frame is great, Climbs very well without too much bobing, Once you change the original components it works like an Intense, 5 flamin chilis for value...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pitt53
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego CA Date Reviewed: July 6, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Noble cyn
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
great frame!!! killer 4 bar. that's abou it... forget the components.
This bike has so much potential....you can really spend some money to build this bike and totally worth it. I just got my Big Hit which does everything way better than this FSR so I'm getting rid of it but still a great bike. The frame can take serious punishment going down. If you can find a frame and willing to build ... this is the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Twister
a Downhiller
from San Jose Date Reviewed: October 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Saratoga Gap, Hollister Hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$850.00
Strengths:
Good bike. Lasts long. Fun to ride, easy to control, reliable.
Weaknesses:
Stock tires, No break mount, Can't fit more than a 2.4 tire in the rear
Similar Products Used:
Diamond Back X-2, RM-9
Bike Setup:
FSR with The MS extention, Sun Intense Mag 30 rims, XT Disc Breaks, DT Swiss Spokes, XT hubs, Kujo, Dirt Gizmo, Soon to have MRP Crank, 02 Jr T, or boxxers.
Bottom Line:
This bike is fun. I posted a review earlier, but I just wanted to follow up on my review. I think it's a pretty kick butt bike, because It goes through whatever I put it through, and gives me minimal problems. It's a fun bike to ride, and easy to control. Gotta love it. Tight color too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
crazy mo fo
a Downhiller
from idaho Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the ski resorts
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
friend who never road it
Strengths:
aftre some upgrades in parts everything it is a sweet ride. the upgrades cost me about 700 but that it mostly just becoulse of the 600.00 dollar fork
Weaknesses:
dont make me laugh. as for the upgrades what bike is there that doesnt need upgrades when you first get it.
Similar Products Used:
mongoose thingy- piece of $#!^ some other clunker things
Bike Setup:
99 fsr frame, mavic 221x rims with specialized hubs with 9mm qr's, marzocchi jr.T, scott 2in rizer bar,mrp chain guide, FSA sidewinder cranks, shimano chainring, deore xt rear der, kujo dh 2.35 tires and alotta other sweet stuff
Bottom Line:
this bike kix @$$, it handels everything iv thrown at it eavin 10 foot drops on to flat groundit is a sweet downhiller it lacks only in rear traver 4.5 isnt quite enuf but i made a new link for it and now it gets 5.5 inches of travel.
over all SWEET RIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
East Logic
a
from Freehold Date Reviewed: July 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
rich friend
Strengths:
PRICE was unbeatable. FRAME is nice to work with. Some components are usable.
Weaknesses:
so far = The headset, chain, cranks, grips, shifters, seat, decals.
Similar Products Used:
trek 950
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
The bike was sold to me from some rich kid who road the bike like 3 times. Its brand new. Overall the bike is great. It has such a nice pop when jumping over large obstacles. As I am riding through rough terrain i am noticing that some parts are failing on me. I can tell that this bike will need to be upgraded to more worthy components. Other than that its a great bike and i know with some new parts i will be riding this piece for a long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg McBride
a Cross Country Rider
from Fredericksburg VA Date Reviewed: July 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Birdland
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Old Towne Bikes
Strengths:
Excellent Frame, very strong. Geometry is almost superb. Climbs very well for a fs bike and descends even better. LX/avid equipment. The Judy fork works well with the bike till the springs wear out.
Weaknesses:
Some of the components just plain suck. Grips, Crank, BB, tires. After the first week of use my grips started to turn. I bent the crank(under light riding conditions)in under a month, and the bottom bracket lasted about 6 months. That just doesnt sit right with me. The rear bushings sieze up after awhile. They take alot of maintenance. Peeling decals. PEDALS WILL KILL YOU!
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y3, Trek 830, Giant Rainier, Y2K FSR XC
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Psylo XC, Pan Fire XC tires, Deore Crank, Custom Easton bar/Schwinn Grips(lovem) Ritchey Pedals, Serfas Seat
Bottom Line:
This has been a great bike for the time i have owned it. It has taken everything I've thrown at it including Killington VT. I actually raced it a few times set up stock with the judy fork. It handled very well. I then replaced the judy with the Psylo when the springs wore out in the judy. This bike handles like a dream now. As of now, my frame has developed a crack in the BB housing and Specialized has agreed to send me a Rockhopper FSR frame to replace it free of charge.(THANKYOU SPECIALIZED!!) I think i will truely miss this bike. I give it 4 flamin rats for value because I think specialized could have done a bit better with some of the little stuff but for overall rating this bike gets a very enthusiastic 5.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ross
a
from Cumberland,RI, US Date Reviewed: June 30, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1179.00
Purchased At:
caspers
Strengths:
bullett proof frame. they put good solid parts everywhere, where other companies overlook. came with clipless pedals. wonderful tires.
Weaknesses:
fork is a little heavy, lots of suspension bob when it is set loose.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. Other bikes in this price range may sport nice products where many people look ( like in the fork and rear d.) but where people dont look ( headset,bb,front d,brakes) the parts are unreliable and fall apart.Specialized did a great job rounding this bike off with a great mix of suspension and components. Great bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
riderx
a Cross Country Rider
from Leonardtown, MD Date Reviewed: April 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Hudson Trail Outfitters
Strengths:
Frame is extra sturdy, dual suspension tears through trails, looks are good, and strong components (but need upgrades)
Weaknesses:
components~front fork, cranks, chain, BB, sticker and paint job (that plastic sticker crap over the labels peels), and handle grips
Bike Setup:
2000 Manitou X-Vert Dual Crown (100+ travel), Mr. Dirt Gizmo Crank setup, serpa grips, new Specialized tubes, new Specialized petals, new Specialized saddle,
Bottom Line:
This bike will run forever if you treat her right. As an east coast rider I've hit the trails of Baltimore, MD (rock and severe technicals), Tsali in NC (a heck of a beating on any bike), and every little trail I can find. This bike tore through every trail with confidence, took its crashes well, and held together. With the new fork I've seriously blown every trail by without beating myself to a pulp. I say get the bike and do whatever possibe to upgrade it to a dirt devil.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DoomRider
a Weekend Warrior
from Bensalem,Pa, USA Date Reviewed: February 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Guy's
Strengths:
Super frame..nice geometry..great initial package..and price!
Weaknesses:
What can i say....overall...great as is, but i just wanted the frame!
Similar Products Used:
All i ride is "The Big 'S'"
Bike Setup:
Titan downhill bars,Manitou sx front shock,Fox float rc rear shock,Race Face Next crank w/rings and B/B,Teflon cables,Serfas grips,leather Geometry seat,Mighty Enduro computer,Salsa q-release seat binder,Control Tech stem.
Bottom Line:
Well...as ceo of the "Bikes of Doom",this is what i ride and i must say,with my own custom set-up, i am happy with the ride,the handling,the control,the weight,the stares and smiles i get,and the picture-perfect poised-n-ready stance that my piece reflects!...Yes, this is the "Doom Bike!"... At least get the frame and go wild with your own choice of components! See ya out there!..Bikes of Doom...AAHHHHHHH!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike aberle
a Downhiller
from kitchener,ontario,canada Date Reviewed: February 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
hydro trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
mcphales
Strengths:
wicked suspension travel easy ride stands out in a crowd hard to beat 4 bar suspension geomtry perfect light no suspension slop or play never out dated
Weaknesses:
i broke the bolt that holds the bottom of the shock to the rear suspension linkage. caused by a sharp grade in the pavement and by excess speed
Similar Products Used:
raliegh kilimanjaro
Bike Setup:
magura hs33 mavic 238x rims manitou answer sx front shocks rock shock super delux coup rear shock blt dual light system
fireball the front and back fenders mega rear drive sprocket deore lxt hubs derailers shifters cat eye mighty 3 speedo
Bottom Line:
wicked bike i wouldnt replace it or sell it for years to come. race ready durable bottom line this bike is the best for the price
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graham Sutton
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: February 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Strengths:
Supple suspension for this price
Weaknesses:
Bushes seize in rear links
Similar Products Used:
FSR Enduro (2000)
Bike Setup:
Cut 1 and 1/2" off each bar end swapped pedals.
Bottom Line:
This was my first mountain bike after riding road bikes, it felt right. Even now I struggle to get my new Enduro to feel this good. The Judy forks are amazing at this price and rear shock is simple but works just right with the front fork. Great bike, pity we have to pay more in £ in the UK.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from DC Date Reviewed: February 14, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
Bikesale.com
Strengths:
Price!!! Geometry Both shocks
Weaknesses:
weight wheels cranks chainrings
Similar Products Used:
None, this is my first full-sus rig.
Bike Setup:
Chucked the riser bar for a (much) narrower flat bar, put on some LX Hollowtech cranks, new BB, XT rear derailleur, working on some lighter wheels.
Bottom Line:
All in all, a great intro full suspension ride. Although a bit on the heavy side, it's perfect for someone who wants to upgrade as they go. The RS Deluxe on the back end lets me rocket down hills while only slowing me slightly on the way back up. The Judy C LT is terrific, maybe even worth it's weight. The cranks and chainrings are complete crap, give them 500 miles and then upgrade. I've heard some complaints about the saddle and the brakes, but neither seem too bad to me. Shifting is clean. The wheels are made out of lead, though, so start looking for new ones right away.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Cross Country Rider
from hamilton, New Zealand Date Reviewed: February 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great frame, the perfect reason for any one to buy a full suspension bike.Great around corners too.
Weaknesses:
some of the components are crap even for their entry level. crap chain don't standup until you replace it.brakes and saddle too.
this is an amazing bike for any one who is thinking about buying a full suspension bike. If you just replace a few things and it runs like a dream.PERFECTION.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arlin Austin
a Cross Country Rider
from Sask, Canada Date Reviewed: January 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Boh's Cycle
Strengths:
Best frame for upgrades.OOOORRR.. great ride for anyone just looking for a good reason to go full-suspension.
Weaknesses:
Certain components could use upgrading. If that's your thing.Other parts almost NEED upgrading eg.- bottom bracket/crankset, brakes, saddle.
Similar Products Used:
tested almost all f/s. could have lived without it until I rode the FSR.
Bike Setup:
Upgraded fr. stock - Manitou x-vert, Race face headset, B.B. & cranks,Avid mag-lite brakes and levers, Time attack pedals, Spec. body geom. saddle, SRAM chain Stock - all else
Bottom Line:
I bought the bike for the frame and the linkage suspension. I wanted to spec it the way I wanted it. I rode it stock for a year and I knew this bike was well worth my initial cost and all upgrades would only make it better. MAKE NO MISTAKE... a bike at this price will NOT be fuuly trick but for it's low price you will get one hell of nice ride. Just remember what your riding!!!! keep rollin'.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from syracuse, NY Date Reviewed: January 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Lund's Ski shop
Strengths:
frame, suspension, price
Weaknesses:
grips, brakes, tires
Bike Setup:
stock except for Bontrager Jones tires, which are fantastic and S works grips.
Bottom Line:
for under nine hundred dollars, I don't think that you could find a better bike. The bars and seat post are meant to be cut down to size. the guy at the bike shop cut both of them for me and both are fine now. The tires that come stock are absolutely garbage as are the grips but these are cheap to upgrade. I ride some serious cross country with lots of technical bumpy terrain covered with shale and roots and drop offs. This bike can handle it all. It can still climb really well too. the riding position may feel a little upright at first but now I think it's the only way to ride. This is a great bike. I beat the hell out of it and it still rides like new. The BB is a little noisy and the rear derailluer can be a pain, but all in all it's a great bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a
from Modesto, CA Date Reviewed: January 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim (Moab)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$870.00
Purchased At:
Super Go
Strengths:
frame design
Weaknesses:
Specialized parts rear suspension (Rock Shox Deluxe) weak hardware (nuts and bolts) plastic bushing pivots
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Enduro
Bike Setup:
Judy C fork Rock Shox Deluxe rear shock Shimano LX a ton of "must upgrade" Specialized parts
Bottom Line:
I was just getting serious about riding when I got this bike, so it was great for me at the time. If I had it to do over again I would have spent more money for an upgraded model (believe me, you will eventually end up upgrading when entry-level parts start breaking, or you find out you want more performance). If you want to do some fast, rocky downhill sections after climbing a single-track trail (which the FSR does efficiently) call Mountain Speed for the ULTIMATE upgrade of your rear suspension and pivots (be willing to spend $550 for a PLUSH 6.2 inches of travel). This upgrade in the rear suspension requires a fork upgrade (4-5 inches of travel). If you don't upgrade the fork your bike will be extremely unbalanced (again, be willing to spend another $500). As you add up the upgrades you can see how it would pay to start with a higher model (i.e. comp, pro). Two upgrades can easily add up to more than you originally paid for the bike. The problem I had with the bike was ONE snapped bolt. The bolt that connected the rear shock to the frame snapped and tweaked the aluminum frame beyond repair. The frame had to be replaced by Specialized. Again, we are talking about ONE bolt and a low-end Rock Shox Deluxe rear shock. I was about 215 lbs. riding in extremely rocky terrain. I wonder if stronger hardware and/or the upgrade from Mountain Speed would have saved the frame? I believe to this day that the 1999 FSR frame is the PERFECT frame for me and my riding style (extremely rough single-track with an emphasis on bombing the backside of the climb). My buddy has the same frame with all the upgrades and it is THE PERFECT hardcore trail/freeride bike (the "do-it-all" bike). I wish I still had the frame! Specialized replaced it with an Enduro which isn't even in the same ballpark. The problem is you can't find them anymore (except "used" on the internet). If you have the money, and don't mind buying "used", I highly recommend looking for a 1999 FSR frame (you can always custom tailor it with the upgrades you can afford). This frame is perfect for the rider who can't afford an Intense, but wants "Intense-like" performance (by the way, Intense pays Specialized to use their four-bar linkage system). If I could say one thing to Specialized it would be, "BRING BACK THE 1999 FSR FRAME!!!"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Collings
a Downhiller
from Plattsburgh, New York, USA Date Reviewed: November 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Jamestown Cycle Shop
Strengths:
Super strong frame. Easily soaks up HUGE hits and insane drop off's. Ive put mine through some crazy stuff and its pulled through as a real winner. I've used alot of different frames for downhilling, but this is by far the best i've ever used without shelling out major bones for an intenes or foes. She'll definetlly take anything you can possible throw at her!!
Weaknesses:
Barely enough travel for upstate NY downhilling on roots and rocks. But thats easily resolved with a travel upgrade from Mountain Speed
Similar Products Used:
Nothing compares to the mighty FSR!!!!
Bike Setup:
1999 FSR Enduro Frame, Marzocchi Moster T fork, 26" Rhino disc front rim, 24" & 26" rear rhino disc rear rim (i use the 24" rim for courses with tight turns, switchbacks and hard braking), Grimeca disc brakes, Chris King Aheadset, Zoom Shorty Stem, Club Roost Bars, Grip Shift XRay rear shifter, XTR Downhill crank, Bullet Bros Chain retention, xt 8 speed cassette, Thompson seatpost, Stock Seat, THE Fenders, Mountain Speed Travel Kit and Speed Bearing Kit (buttery smooth, highly recommended).
Bottom Line:
This is one hell of a bike, no matter what you do with it. Stock, it could use a couple upgrades if your a serious contender. But if your a weekend warrior like most of us out there, you can take it hippity hoppity over the rocks with no worries. Or, with a couple good mods, YOU CAN SCREAM DOWN THE SIDE OF A MOUNTAIN WITH YOUR HAIR ON FIRE!!!! Just ask her nicely, and she'll produce one hell of a surprising ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zero the hero
a Weekend Warrior
from Hellafax Date Reviewed: November 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
very nice frame,strong and takes abuse.
Weaknesses:
why does Specialized have to put all them crapy specialized parts on their bikes??? anyway with a ton of up-grades this is a awesome bike: see below.
Similar Products Used:
?????
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z.1 QR20 (5" travel)built up on a ditch witch wheel,SMR link w/needle bearings to give the rear 5.5" plush travel,kooka freeride cranks,kooka 32 tooth chain ring w/ a kooka bash guard,sun mammoth on the rear (will be a sun dbl wide or sun BFW 24" soon)with avid disc brakes.powertools shorty DH steam,specialized riser bar('cos their so wide),mobster 2.7 up front,some other 2.5 tyre on the rear,lx/deoro stuff..........
Bottom Line:
the frame is sweet w/ a lot of upgrades, the specialized stock gear sucks! if your looking to buy a awesome duely with loads of good parts go buy a 2001 stinky, however if you want to build your own freeride/downhill bike this FSR frame can take some big hits and drops .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anders
a
from Sweden Date Reviewed: November 15, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
sportson
Strengths:
4 bar suspention. The Frame. Colour. Shaun Palmer rode for Specialized. The RS Judy C forke workes great. Price!
Weaknesses:
Brakes! Dia compe vc735. They won't stop you. Rear tyre slips i wet conditions onley 1.95 X 26. Front fork travel kan be a problem, 83+12mm.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
I have changed to Shimano M636 pedals and changed rear tyre to a 2.1 X 26.
Bottom Line:
The onley bike you'l need, IF you change brakes and don't ride serious DH. The rear tyre works untill i starts to rain. I changed pedal so i could use none SPD shoes. I have never used the original Specialized pedal. I have droped from a 6 feet cliff and i will do it again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Mason
a Weekend Warrior
from Cornwall, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: November 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bromont Quebec
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Bicycle World
Strengths:
Good handling, Great frame, 4 bar suspension
Weaknesses:
Front fork and rear could use more travel and adjustablity. Skinny tires that come with it are not enough. Grips and seat suck, I tried everything short of glueing the grips to make them stick and the seat is just plain unconfortable.
Similar Products Used:
Gt I-Drive, Supper freak.
Bike Setup:
DH stem, Tioga 2.3 DH tires, Ritchie grips, Raceface LP cranks, Tioga multi control II seat
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, if I had known more at the time I bought it I would have had the upgrades made then but the bike hs preformed though thick and thin for me and doing the upgrades as they needed to be done has been a learning experiance
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from South Bend, In, USA Date Reviewed: November 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lawless Park in South West Michigan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction in Buchanan, Michigan
Strengths:
Easy Handling; The stock suspension, while not world class, soaks up the logs and drop-offs. My "more mature" lower back and knees appreciate the benefits of dual suspension. I'm getting better at compressing the suspension to get both wheels in the air to get over the aforementioned logs. The stock tires grab reasonably well, even on the fall leaves and southwest michigan sand. I havn't had the brake problems that other reviewers mentioned, but then again, I'm not riding any kind of major mountains. No bottom bracket or frame/suspension creaks or noise at this time. This is a "utility" bike. Not a lot to mess with, just pedal, point and go. The more I ride it, the more fun I have with it. (Despite my 4th of July over the bars induced broken collarbone)
Weaknesses:
Stock Specialized pedals are difficult to get in. The riser bar was too wide and kept getting caught on the many trees on my favorite singletracks. I had to cut nearly 1 1/2" off of each end. The stock grips slide all over the place. The seat is narrow and hard. Solution: I bought better bike shorts. The rear LX shifter isn't always prompt. We'll just leave it at that.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first dual suspension bike, so I'm not really qualified to comment.
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock with the exception of my shortened handlebars and a lizard skin on the chainstay to cut down on the chainslap noise on the bumps. Money is always an issue and I'm sure I will upgrade the pedals, grips and rear shifter. I had the shop swap me into SRAM Attack grip shifters, in that I've always been partial to the twisters.
Bottom Line:
This is your basic "do-all, utility" bike. Not the best in any category, however, for the money, the high rideability and point and shoot feeling, you can't go wrong.
I find myself daydreaming at work about my last ride and which of my friends I'm gonna call for the next ride. Does this happen to anyone else?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: October 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
i'm a loser who doesn't bike much anymore
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Tuxedo Sports
Strengths:
Spec'd is fairly good overall, full suspension
Weaknesses:
full suspension (too much maintence), not aimed for too too burly DH's or anything else for that matter, noisy BB, grips wear out a little too prematurely, be ready to go bonkers upgrading -- go with something a little better spec'd
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn S-10, Super V's, GT i-drives
Bike Setup:
SID XL, Spin rims, XTR rear-d, XTR brake set, Control Tech seatpost, Raceface carbon flat bar, giro fizik
Bottom Line:
Not a spectacular bike, but acceptable for the price! I've gone a little out to spec'ing this bike thought i don't ride anymore (my friends call me a rich bum) a biotch to ride uphill, too much lateral flex, BB poses future problems, be ready to upgrade, upgrade, upgrade! high maintenance of full suspension seatpost may sometimes get in the way of the shock, but that can be eliminated by sawing If you're a rider on a budget and looking for the comfort of full suspension and ready to accept the flaws of suspension such as pogo-ing, then its a good choice. but dont complain if this doesn't tickle your fancy!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil Patrick
a Downhiller
from bedford, NH, USA Date Reviewed: October 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Babe Ruth trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Barn
Strengths:
Its a sick bike. Im more of a free rider than anything and this bike has been able to take all the abuse i give to it.
Weaknesses:
The crank is starting to make noises and the bars are a little to big.
Similar Products Used:
schwinn s-20 and a kona hardtail for trials (also a sick bike)
Bike Setup:
A bomber 100mm front fork with a rino light wheel set and XTR brakes and rear derailer, other than that its stock.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is iots a sick bike for just abbout any type of riding you do. Iv had this bike for abbout two weeks now and have been hitting drop offs up to 10ft hight with no problem and im planing on goin much highter when i find the right drop. I would recomend changing the brakes if u plan to try to stop though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Rossetta
a Downhiller
from San Jose California Date Reviewed: October 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Just in los Gatos/ saratoga/ Santa Cruz
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$855.00
Purchased At:
Campus Bikes
Strengths:
I love the front forks. They soke up the bumbs rather nicly. I love the 9 speed shifters as well. It climbs well up those long hills. Haven't had any breaking problems yet. Big step up from my 92 Rock Hopper
Weaknesses:
I noticed the noises that everyone was talking about. I think that it could use new grips, and I replaced my back tire and rim right away because I wasn't comfortable with the Team Masters that were one it. I went for the some Wild Gripper Hot S
Similar Products Used:
I've used The dimond back x2
Bottom Line:
The bottom line on this bike is that It's a very nice bike for the money. I love it because I can go over 80 mph with just a change of the back tire. All it needed was to come with a higher seat post. But damn! I love this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Free Rider
a Cross Country Rider
from Aliso Viejo Date Reviewed: September 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Meadows
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$649.00
Purchased At:
Bikesale.com
Strengths:
Excellent entry level bike. Great frame and suspension design. Descent components for price.
Weaknesses:
Tires don't stick, bottom bracket is noisy, the cranks creak and the chainrings SUCK. The seat is also a piece, and the brakes won't stop even going uphill. Hey, but that's what makes upgrading so much fun.
Great entry level bike. It rides well enough with stock components to get anyone hooked on mountain biking. Then with upgrades it can be improved greatly. The brakes are pretty scary on steep or long descents. The Koolstop pads helped but they still aren't great. The Pythons make the bike handle much better over all terrain. I strongly recommend this bike to anyone looking for an inexpensive entry level bike. It can be upgraded when money allows to a real performer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Barber
a Weekend Warrior
from North Vancouver Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
all trails on fromme mt.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$866.00
Purchased At:
Dizzy's Cycles
Strengths:
Nice components, except for specialized components Price ($1300 cdn) Weight-nice and light for a full suspension
Weaknesses:
Everything was doing awesome and i really liked the bike...for 3 months!!!! I broke the bolt holding the rear shock and i bent the frame!!!! This bike just isnt strong enough. Im 13 years old and 115 pounds. 2 of my friends had this bike, and the exact same thing happened. It's clearly not a bike for the north shore. Well, it would be all right if u just go up and down roads the whole time. Other than that, i highly do not reccommend it for n e 1 thats serious about mountain biking
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
front shock=judy xc, rear shock= rock shox deluxe, and xt/lx groupo
Bottom Line:
It's not a bike that can handle the extreme North Shore trails. Buy it only if your into mellow trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kent Anderson
a Racer
from Newtown, CT, USA Date Reviewed: September 22, 2000
I love this bike. I rode over 500 miles on this bike this summer, and have had very few problems with it. I just purchased new Oury grips. The grips given only lasted about 4 months. I am going to upgrade the LX derailers to XTR, so I can get more out of this awesome bike. I love the suspension. It is a Rock Shox Deluxe spring shock. The front suspension is the '99 Judy SL Race shocks. They are 80mm, and plenty for this type of bike. I would recomend this bike to anyone thinking about buying a full suspension bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KC
a Weekend Warrior
from Southeastern Ohio Date Reviewed: September 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$649.00
Purchased At:
BikeSale.com
Strengths:
I love this bike! From the very first ride, the Specialized FSR renewed my interest in cycling. I haven't had so much fun riding a bike in years. The full suspension has really boosted my confidence on fast downhills. Of course, I must also admit that the low price plays an important factor in my positive opinion. At $649.00, this bike is a steal! The fork is silky smooth, handling is crisp, and the rear end sucks up bumps with ease. Granted, I am not bombing off fifteen foot cliffs or racing the bike, but what a great ride!
Weaknesses:
Stock grips, bars, pedals and the block of cement resembling a seat. The grips MUST be glued on or you're gonna bust your chops. And, if you want to be a dad someday, throw the seat in the trashcan. Also, I agree with the riders who have commented about the bike making strange noises. I think that I am going to install a new bottom bracket (since it appears to be the culprit).
Similar Products Used:
This is my first full suspension bike so I do not feel comfortable comparing it to previous bikes that I have owned.
Bike Setup:
KORE Lite 3 stem, Titec Hellbent bar, Wellgo clipless pedals, Panaracer Fire XC Pro 2.1 tires, Kore titanium skewers, Lizard skins front and rear and a Nashbar saddle (don't laugh, it's very comfy on my old butt).
Bottom Line:
GREAT bike! With the upgrades, an even better bike. If you are a "weekend warrior" who doesn't have a lot of money to spend on a full suspension bike, you can't go wrong with the Specialized FSR.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney Date Reviewed: September 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Second Hand
Strengths:
Well thought out handling and great value for money
Weaknesses:
could be lighter, chain suck just won't go away and the bars are just way to wide in standard format
Similar Products Used:
Proflex 755, Sunn X Shox
Bike Setup:
Noleen Chubby's, DX Platforms, Mobster, new chain and grips, cable operated front disk
Bottom Line:
Great Value for money and great bike (like the frame enough to make me look spending the $$$$'s on a Big Hit in the next few weeks)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andy H
a Cross Country Rider
from france Date Reviewed: August 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anywhere south of lyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
Just the way it feels, once you get used to the full suspension, and learn how to make the most of it, this rides like nothing else. Fairly versatile too, cliché but it's a pretty good all rounder, fun to race for the novelty value as well, if you're not super competitive, can change your racing experience.
Weaknesses:
hmmm, even given the entry level components to make the price band, there are still some unacceptably useless bits of kit on this... brakes=upgrade or die tragically young after it's rained, saddle= free sex change and bendy rails, chain= don't stand up on the pedals till you've changed it, chainrings= throw them away
Similar Products Used:
nothing for long enough to give an opinion
Bike Setup:
avid arch rival 50's with 3.0 levers (lovely and not too pricey), flite saddle, some french chainrings which seem ok, sachs chain (no question)
Bottom Line:
if you buy this, be prepared to upgrade, which i was so i'm not unhappy depsite some of the comedy componentry. With upgrades, and a bike you can still ride very comfortably whilst you are making them, this is really an amazing bike. With full suspension, you have to be prepared to invest the cash to get the kind of longevity and reliability which you would for considerably less from a rigid bike, but from what i've found with the FSR, it's worth it. More maintenance, more attention to detail, but i'm a bit sad, so i don't mind that. Gives rewards in longer rides with less fatigue from vibration, more from your downhill experience, and it's not bad for racing either being surprisingly versatile once you're fit enough to lug the extra weight up the hills. I'm pretty much sold on full suspension, and this was the bike which did it. Have to knock a chili off for the chain and saddle though, they were really unacceptable even for entry level.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Simon Coe
a Weekend Warrior
from Tunbridge Wells, Kent, UK Date Reviewed: August 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
Great performance for the money, frame quality, rear suspension action, wide bars.
Weaknesses:
Brakes were terrible, a change to Koolstops makes a huge difference, I had big chainsuck problems in the English mud, but Specialized sent me a set of 99 LX Cranks and Rings as a warranty replacement - these solved the problem completely. The stock grips fell off as soon as it got damp. The stock tyres didn't last very long and the back seemed to get a lot of pinch flats, I now run Tioga 2.3's front and rear with heavier tubes and don't get any problems apart from the fact that the rear is a bit of a tight fit when it gets muddy - I'll probably try a 2.1 on the back next.I do still get the odd ghost shift on lumpy ground, but most of the time it's ok.
Similar Products Used:
Marin East Peak
Bike Setup:
Stock apart from Tioga 2.3's, different grips, tubes, Koolstops, chain, and LX cranks and rings
Bottom Line:
For the money I felt it was the best choice, I tried loads of different manufacturers products but I liked the way the FSR rode. The frame's good enough to upgrade the components as they wear out and I am pleased with the service I got under warranty from Specialized UK even though I bought the bike in the States.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Madison
a Downhiller
from Bothell, WA Date Reviewed: August 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
summit at snoqualmy
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great bike for the money
Weaknesses:
i'm getting very angry with it, after a few months of riding it has started making really wreird sounds, one sounds like opening a rusty door, others are like skweeky craking sounds
Similar Products Used:
fsr sport
Bike Setup:
stock everything so far, might upgrade to tripple clamps
Bottom Line:
good bike, but can anyone tell me where the noices are coming from! (it's not the rear shock or bearings)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John H.
a Weekend Warrior
from Ann Arbor, MI Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fort Custer
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
FSR suspension inpsires confidence when the going gets rough; climbs and handles the flats well enough for a heavier bike
Weaknesses:
Chain and derailleurs are kind of weak; already replaced the chain; pedals are hard to clip into
Similar Products Used:
First dual suspension bike
Bike Setup:
Stock except for a new chain
Bottom Line:
This bike handles really well. I've taken it through some rough spots and it keeps going and going, logs, rocks, and scary downhills be damned. One nice thing is that if you decide to spend some time on flatter trails you can really build up a head of steam and zoom along there, too.
I've had problems with the chain and derailleurs ever since I got the bike, and the Specialized pedals are really hard to clip into somtimes, so I can't give it a perfect rating, but these things aside the FSR is a lot of fun to ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Duffy
a Weekend Warrior
from Plymouth, NH - USA Date Reviewed: July 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hodge Podge of Pond Trails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The FSR is a great bike, don't get me wrong, but it is not for everyone. For me, the deraileurs have worked for me and as well as the brakes. Read on...
Weaknesses:
Let's see...the bike is heavy at just over 30 pounds. The suspension was too soft for me both the Judy forks and the Deluxe rear shock. The stock chain broke on an uphill effort not while shifting. The very looooong rise bars...they can be cut shorter, but the rise was still too much for me. The stock tires were too big and heavy for my taste. The bike lacked bar end. I need bar ends to have multiple hand position on rides. The last thing, it seems that chain suck may be a problem since it has happened twice so far.
Similar Products Used:
None...all the other bike are hardtails. Be sure to test ride this bike before making an opinion.
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock at this point. I have changed the bars to my trusty Bontranger Titanium bars with bar ends. I did also switch to Shimano SPD pedals and thinner Specialized tires. I had to change to a Shimano chain because the stock chain was way cheesy. (Luckily the shop replaced it at their cost, no mark-up) I will be switching to a stiffer rear spring in the read shock as soon as it arives at my local shop, this adds another $40 to the overall bike price. I plan on adjusting the inards of the Judy fork to be stiffer, too.
Bottom Line:
Coming from the world of traditional hardtails, old habits are hard to break, but the purchase price of the FSR was too much of a good deal to resist at less than a grand all costs tallied. Being used to the ride of a hardtail, and me being a bit heavier than the average Joe, a tad over 200, the suspension is way to soft and I am going out-of-my-way to stiffen both ends of suspension. I don't fault Specailized really for the LX components, rise handlebars, cheesy chain and heavy tires, because to create a good value, they do need to put lesser parts that can easily be replaced as money allows. But all things considered, the bikes performance has been less than stellar for me. It is my hope that with some stiffening of the suspension and some weight reduction, the ride will improve and, hopefully, so will my opinion of this bike. If my opinion changes in time, I will be sure to check back in here with my results. Finally, you are welcomed to email me with ideas, comments or questions...good day.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Lody
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, TX Date Reviewed: July 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Grapevine - North Shore
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good weight and handling. The bike feels like it just wants to ride all day.
Weaknesses:
Components could be better.
Bike Setup:
All stock minus the bar ends.
Bottom Line:
Everybody tells me if you want to climb better, faster ... you have to get a hartail. I always seem to be passing the same peeps that tells me this. Yeah, this ride is nice for the flow and pretty reliable. I would suggest breaking in the LX componentry and as soon as they start to give you trouble, splurge and get the good stuff.....they're cheaper than a new bike. All levels of riders will praise this little lady.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a
from Vernon,CT Date Reviewed: July 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
I have many
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Great dollar value. Handles great. Cross country or free-riding. Supple rear suspension. Effective 4-bar linkage. With upgrades will stand the test of time.
Weaknesses:
Stock brakes, front fork, pedals and LX drivetrain and SPECIALIZED cranks.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Manomano, K2 Razorback, FSRcomp, FSRextreme, FSRenduro
Bike Setup:
MonkeyLite risers,X-VertT,CaneCreek Air rear shock,SpoxM-2,converted to 8speed with grip shift and XT derailleurs,TruVativ Stylo Team crank,Wellgo,Avid 2.0 brakes and levers,26 lbs
Bottom Line:
I have spent alot of money upgrading what i think is one of the best full suspension designs on the market. I will ride this bike until it breaks so bad I can't fix it. Out of the box it is perfect for someone who wants full suspension but is on a budget. It will perform as good as bikes costing twice as much.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: June 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
lynn woods
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
takes a beating and comes back for more. the price is great for a starter bike. handles decents and climbs well.
Weaknesses:
stock brakes a bad. cross country rims. judy c has no dampening. bushings in rear.
Bike Setup:
magura hs-33's, ryno lites, stratos FR-4
Bottom Line:
a great bike if you want to peice together a nice ride and don't have the money to do it all at once. buy this bike and change out components as you go and you still have a good bike to ride. the stock brake are really bad and i recomend to change them first. to complete the mods on the bike i plan on getting the MRP travel and bearing kit. a great thing about the FSR is that there are a lot of manufacturers that make upgrade for this great bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Emmanuel
a Cross Country Rider
from Paris, France Date Reviewed: June 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
FRANCE!
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
great frame, good price, great bike!
Weaknesses:
brakes aren't very good
Similar Products Used:
giant with no suspension at all.
Bike Setup:
gore tex cables
Bottom Line:
It's a great bike for a great price, in my team everybody have FSR bikes. it's good as well for XC and cool downhill, for the ones who can't affoad 2 bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GTox
a Weekend Warrior
from Montreal Date Reviewed: May 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great Frame, Nice fork if you aren't a weight weenie, great components for the money you pay
Weaknesses:
Diacompe VC737 brakes need popeye forearms to slow the bike on the steep stuff. The stock cranks may as well be cardboard for all of the stiffness they provide (or rather, don't provide)
Bike Setup:
Stock except now have Deore Hollowtech crankset to replace the flimsy Forearm stock set. Tektro quartz brakes (parallel push, full set at supergo for 44 bucks US). Ritchey seatpost and new rubber (Dart and Smoke)
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. The cranks have got to go as do the brakes (levers are fine (avid 1.0)). Can't complain much. A good cross country to freeride bike... great weekend machine. My bottom bracket sounds terrible but seems to work fine, anyone else had this problem?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Archie
a Downhiller
from Edmonton Date Reviewed: May 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
all the single track @ the Alpine Club in Canmore
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame is super beefy and veray crash worthy. Good entry level components but I up graded to XTR.
Weaknesses:
stock pedals are crappy go for the wellgo's or the 636 bottom braket sucks for fat people like me.
Similar Products Used:
Kona stab and stab delux, rocky mountian RM6 just to name a few.
Bike Setup:
full XTR, 519 rims, '99 boxer 6 inch travel, kris king head set, kona shorty stem, race face sorth shore xs cranks, the new XT disc brakes, and stock everything else.
Bottom Line:
The FSR it's self is an awsome bike with the stock parts that came with it. I replaced the pedals as soon as I got it with the wellgo's. and over the past year have put everything else on. I like my downhill bikes with 3-4 inches of travel in the back and 6-8 in the front I also like to keep the weight down anf the FSR with my set up is the perfect way to do it. Five Chilis for a biker on a buget. Four for the set up but you get what you pay for with a few upgrades this bike is really freek'in cool/
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Weekend Warrior
from Cornwall, Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: May 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything going down
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good bike right out of the box, and with a little fine tuning it can be a great bike
Weaknesses:
Rock hard seat, bars are to wide (need to be cut down about an inch each side), needs 2 inches more travel front and rear but thats just me this year last year it was fine, next year I will want more again.
Similar Products Used:
Giant, GT.
Bike Setup:
Shorty stem, Tioga 2.30 DH tires
Bottom Line:
This is the bike to start on because it can grow with your skills. You get a good bike to start and as your skills improve you can easily upgrade it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a Downhiller
from Everett Date Reviewed: May 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Exit 38
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very good price for what you get.
Weaknesses:
Cranks are on the weak side. Bars are a million miles wide, but other than that you cant fault it.
Similar Products Used:
Most every bike made by Specialized, Cannondale, Trek, and Giant.
Bike Setup:
4" travel Z-1, Mountain speed 6" travel and bearing kits for the rear, Germeica disks, Mavic 521's, Azonic bar, zoom stem, Intense front and Maxis rear 2.3 tires.
Bottom Line:
This bike is amazing! It is such a good set up for freeriding. It is relatively light (32 lbs.) and works very well. It isn’t quite up to par with the top downhill bikes, but is an excellent substitute if you have a lack of funds. I have done some really crazy world cup style rides on it and have had no problems at all. It is also very crashworthy as are all the other parts on my setup. The best part is that it is not limited just to downhilling, it is also a respectable trail bike if you don’t mind the extra weight and travel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Sunnyvale Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Well designed and well built frame. Great suspension. No bob while pedaling, well there's some in front, but I think heavier oil will help fix that. An unbelievable value. $649 at bikesale.com and the previous post is true, they due have great service.
Weaknesses:
very little adjustability of front fork and only preload adjustment of rear, still it works better than I expected. rims seem a little weak. Brakes are a little fussy but are functional and with kool-stop pads work much better. It's hard to complain about this bike because it really does feel great to ride.
Similar Products Used:
Previous bike was a rockhopper, but I have ridden virtually every full-suspension bike made in the under $1200 category(well, ok those mostly available, Schwinn, Kona(nice), K2, GT, Trek, Fischer, Klein, a few were more than $1200 but I had to try them!!!). The specialized is a no-apology choice.
Bike Setup:
Stock except bontrager seat. The stock seat isn't as bad as some suggest. I loosened the rear suspension bolts and re-torqued and found great improvement in the rear action. I will replace parts as they break but until then this thing works great.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! This is my first brand new(99) bike since my Schwinn BMX bike back in the day. all the previous mountain bikes I've owned have been used. It is a great performer. I ride motocross bikes and I already feel comfortable doing jumps and sliding with it. I think that some parts like rims will eventually wear(taco) but it is built well and the fun meter is pegged! I rode alot of bikes because I am just like that. I have to know that what I am buying is the best choice for my application. This thing fits like a glove. And the price is just too good to pass up. Buy one and love you will love it too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Cross Country Rider
from Eugene, OR Date Reviewed: May 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Larison Rock
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great frame, good rear shock for a good price. Good adjustibility on the front stem for different positions.
Weaknesses:
spongy cranks, crappy pedals
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar, Specialized, Cannondale hardtails
Bike Setup:
xt pedals, cranks and bb, manitou f shock, irc tires
Bottom Line:
This is a great xc frame, although all the models come with Specialized's crappy cranks. Haven't had any major problems in a year, and I'm riding faster and farther than on my hardtail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod Davidson
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sedonna, AZ
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Definitely the price is a major plus. Versatility and ability to handle cross country as well as some down hill. The stock Manitou fork works fairly well.
Weaknesses:
The shifters and derailers leave much to be desired. Upgrading to XT or XTR much improves stopping and shifting abilities. Chain suckage builds frustration. Rear wheel pulls out of drop outs on extra steep climbs. Seems like the four link wobbles a bit.
Similar Products Used:
Intense SL
Bike Setup:
Velociraptors - front and rear, Mavic 517's, XTR V-Brakes and shifter pods, SL Derailers...
Bottom Line:
Overall for someone on a budget, this is the bike. With the upgrades it is much nicer to ride. However, I would like to change the derailers and sprockets to stop sucking the chain and send me through the gears. For the average cross country rider, the stock set up is probably fine. For those of us who occasionally take soil samples, some upgrades will be in order.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Boyt
a Weekend Warrior
from Wgtn, New Zealand Date Reviewed: April 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Whakarewarewa MTB Park, Rotorua
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Strong Frame with good entry level components
Weaknesses:
Hand grips need to be replaced or hand extensions added to keep grips on bar. Seat post needs to be cut down for the shorter person. Middle and Lower front cogs need to be replaced with Shamano LX or XT to stop chain suck.
Bike Setup:
Have put on Formula Hydraulic Disc breaks front and rear. Used Specialised Rear conversion bar to attach rear calliper. Need to reverse rear axle pivot bolt and then grind down to allow rooter to spin freely. Upgraded Hub to Shamano XT with 35 spoke Mavick 321 hubs. Put in stiffer front fork springs.
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike for the all rounder. Very reasonably priced and responds well to be thrown around. Easily upgraded to become even better performer without having to buy a new bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Chelsea, Maine, USA Date Reviewed: April 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
great looks, ride, all around good bike
Weaknesses:
none that I found
Similar Products Used:
none
Bottom Line:
Does anybody have a picture of the '99 FSR? I would appreciate it if you would e-mail it to me at "jayman123545@cs.com". Thanks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ben johnson
a Weekend Warrior
from baton rouge Date Reviewed: April 9, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
price, looks, ride, weight, name reputation, all around great bike
Weaknesses:
grips are coming off hard seat
Similar Products Used:
mongoose d70r full suspension, mongoose alta rigid frame
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
wow, this is a great bike ! but the grips spin around the bar on my first ride !! the seat is rather uncomfortable but that is monor stuff, this is a great bike !!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Bear Valley, California!!!! Date Reviewed: April 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Just one?????
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great for downhill except going over big stuff....might want to change suspension to go big. Front fork is already set up for disc brakes....Judy Long travel
Weaknesses:
Had to cut seat post for downhill.....can't drop it all the way cause it'll hit rear suspension. Also need to be aware of big rocks up or downhill because it sits low.....
Bike Setup:
Stock - out of the box
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for me or anyone to learn on.....It takes a lot of abuse considering how light it is...although I did put a dent in the frame landing and falling sideways on a rock.....Jumping off snow banks...ha ha Over all I love this bike but I would consider it a cross country bike does a bit of everything but not for serios downhiller unless a lot ($$$) of after market components are put on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jean Charpentier
a Weekend Warrior
from Montréal,Québec,Canada Date Reviewed: March 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bromont Québec
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
This bike can do many things, it climbs well and sure can ride downhill, it doesent cost much and good looking.
Weaknesses:
The bottom bracket is kind of low, many objects hit it while in action. Changing to the low gear in front was almost impossible even with the best adjusments (I guess I need more than LX) The grips came loose in humid conditions (my hands sweat a lot). Also, the cables are in a bad place on the bike. Oh yeah! I bend the railings under the seat. The rear tire got used in no time!
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose, Marin,
Bike Setup:
Custom
Bottom Line:
Still, I love this bike, I just need hydraulic brakes and at least XT. This bike is fun to ride, really!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fernando Biagioni
a Downhiller
from Piracicaba, SP BRAZIL Date Reviewed: March 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any freeride trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Four bar linkage, price, frame design, spz crankset
Weaknesses:
I JUST DIDN´T LIKE JUDY C SUSPENSION. MORE TRAVEL WOULD BE PRETTY COOL
Similar Products Used:
GT XCR4000, SCOTT G-ZERO FX3
Bike Setup:
XTR, THE fenders, Diatech disc brakes
Bottom Line:
JUDY C isn´t very good for freeride/downhill use. I broke it within 6 months. Dia Compe v-brakes satisfied me. The bike is good enough for freeride and a bite use for cross country. I just think the 1" or even 2" of travel would be much better. Anyway, it´s a lovely bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dilbert Shepski
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, Australia Date Reviewed: March 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
mt gungun, kalamunda
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I have found this bike to be pretty much perfect for me, the front to back balance is great, it is a very stable ride, for chicking around the streets, to downhill riding on the weekends.
Weaknesses:
One of the bolts on my rear suspension snapped, and i have heard of people drilling a bigger hole and putting a bigger bolt through, but i stress, DONT do it, as the bold should snap first, putting a bigger one on there just means that the stress is transferrred to the frame, which you cannot replace as cheaply as a bolt.
Similar Products Used:
Giant warp duallie - just not in the same league...
Bike Setup:
flat pedals, very spiky, amoboa downhill bars, tiny bit of preload on the front, not much on the back, but i put a lighter sutom made spring in as the 750 pound was to heavy for my 60 kilos
Bottom Line:
this is a bloody great bike.... the price is very good considering what u get for the money, i got a great deal on mine, just bargain with them to get what u want, you'll be very surpised what u can get when u push a salesman..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Casey Shea
a Downhiller
from Calgary Date Reviewed: February 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Back Roads of Sussix New Brunswick
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The FSR practically jumps out of the box and says "lets go" like it was born for speed, it almost pilots itself. The Dirt Comp front tire gets you out of sticky situations, it seems to grab the ground when landing angled endows. I found the brakes to work good. The 9 speed tranny is sweet on slightly hilly sections. The LX rear derailier shifted smooth. Liked the manual sag setting on Rock Shox and rebound control on deluxe.
Weaknesses:
JudyC can't take a constant pounding. I had them broken twice in 5 months, the grips slipped half off upon landing airs. I enjoyed the 9 speed but, It seems to have a hunger for chains at high and low torque. The first broken on the very day I opened the box due to hesitation of front derailier from second to granny chain ring. I now have broken my 5th chain. The bottom bracket had to be replaced after 6 months. AND my biggest problem with the bike was the ultra light Specialized race tubes. Those were toast after a week. That was not in the specs at all. Not a good thing for a enduro bike to have. Especially in the front tire.
Similar Products Used:
My previous bike was a Trek Hard Tail with a Trans-X stem shock.
Bike Setup:
Factory Specs with an upgraded bottom bracket, Michilin tubes, and ODI Lock On grips.
Bottom Line:
This bike is an excelent performer until it gets broken. But for the for the trail riding weekend adventurer who wants to look good and have a decent ride, this bike is for them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Metzger
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington Date Reviewed: February 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any train will do
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light weight and tough as he#&
Weaknesses:
Components could be better Little more travel would be nice
Similar Products Used:
None like it
Bike Setup:
Right out of the box
Bottom Line:
Is a good bike for the money, light weight and very strong. If your looking for long plush travel, then this bike isn't for you, but if your looking for a good x-country/free ride bike then this is the bike for you. If you just cant live with out that long plush travel then your gonna have to dig just a little deeper in your wallet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Quint
a Weekend Warrior
from Waco, Tx Date Reviewed: January 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Cameron Park - Waco
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
weight for the price, solid enough for recreational riding, looks
Weaknesses:
Dia Compe Vc735 brakes. A few problems getting to the granny ring with the LX.
Bottom Line:
Since I only paid $649 for this bike at Bothell Ski and Bike (bikesale.com) in Washington, I can't complain. Great c.s. from Bothell. This is my first mountain bike, so don't have anything to compare it to. Forget the Dia Compe brakes, they don't stop worth a damn, especially downhill. The local bike shop had trouble adjusting the LX front derailleur, but it works. The rear LX is fairly smooth. Will upgrade to XT and Arch Rival 50's with SD 2.0's soon. Only four chilis because of the brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a weekend warrior
from Nelson BC Canada Date Reviewed: October 30, 1998
Bottom Line:
I like this bike very much. I posted a review for the Comp which is a better bike but this bike also rules ass. I dont like the LX componets but for the money this bike is so GREAT. I would buy one if I was strapped for cash but i'm not so i will get the Comp.
Overall Rating:
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