Submitted by
Matt
a
from Wilton CT USA! Date Reviewed: August 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
jackrabbit run
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Fitness
Strengths:
Very light, good rear suspension system, all in all a great XC bike.
Weaknesses:
The manitou mars absolutly SUCK, i have had to overhaul it 2 times already, so i just recently bought 2002 rockshox psylo SL, and its great.
Similar Products Used:
my friends Shwinn
Bottom Line:
Its a great bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JEFF R
a Cross Country Rider
from GLENDALE Date Reviewed: May 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
SYCAMORE
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
SUPERSLOW
Strengths:
good uphill traction using this type of rear angle. excellent rock shox and fox combo light weight. comfortable feel
Weaknesses:
obviously the spec crank set. stock spec handlebars feel like wings.
Similar Products Used:
coming up from a hardtail, so not much to compare with.
Bike Setup:
now: ct2 carbon bar, xt crank and bb. rollin on mythos, just screwed on atac carbons.
Bottom Line:
although i came from a hardtail, but for an avid rider this bike made me feel at home. you can lock out the rear when your climbing on cement or hardpack, or kick it loose for awsome grip on loose rocks and. the frame feels comfortable for me, but the first swap out was that handle bar. the specialized crank set is always a piece, so i thrashed it quickley and replaced it with xt. the head set does not feel as smooth as other bikes i have used, but it holds up just the same. the specialized tires that come stock are freakin dangerous. i replaces those after a few falls with mythos.
this bike has taken hard...and i mean hard hits that i have dished out and has helped up great. if you drain the 15 weight oil out of the rock shox and put in 10 wieght it will feel smoother and plunge easier.
for this price..great, but specialized needs to either improve or drop there accessories
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Cape Town South Africa Date Reviewed: January 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Tokai
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Smooth ride, when suspension dialled in correctly. Great climber
This is a great bike. After owning a hard tail for 4 years this Stumpy was a great improvement. I'm a little narked at all the components I have had to replace, hubs, front derailleur (no fault of the bike), chain (shimano chain sucks) ,BB after 14 months and suspension bushings. These problems aside I have enjoyed the bike no end. The XTR/XT componentry is legendary. Once the suspension is dialled in correctly the bike is a pleasure to ride. I recently rode a 2001 Stumpy pro and in all honesty there was little difference. The secret of the suspension bushings is to keep them well lubed. The reason for replacing the bushings is a fair amount of wet muddy and then dry dusty riding conditions. All in all a great bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob
a Cross Country Rider
from ludington michigan Date Reviewed: December 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Zaleski
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Crystal Adventures
Strengths:
fast and smooth
Weaknesses:
bottom bracket could be higher, the main swingarm bolt kept coming loose, despite a low strength locktite. The problem was fixed with the heavy duty locktite. After a 30-to-0 endo, the fork wouldn't hold air. 3 weeks for Manitou to get it back. One of the Time pedals sprung a spring and had to be replaced.Of course the bars and seatpost need to be cut way down, and I ditched the stock rubber. Seats OK though.
Similar Products Used:
rented a schwinn rocket for 2 days at the Gorge.
Bike Setup:
dart in the front, a Ritchey in the back, stock
Bottom Line:
A great bike, with some shakedown problems. I weigh 200#, I think the bike iw weighing 26.5#
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: October 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Cupertino Bike Shop
Strengths:
I did a review recently but made a change to the bike I must let all of you kow about!
Weaknesses:
Rear dropout bushings; bottom bracket height; noisey cranks; bars way too wide, had to cut down; hard seat
Similar Products Used:
Specialized hardtail
Bike Setup:
changed tires to WTB NanoRaptors 2.4, front and rear; added Mountain Speed X Factor and Dropout Bearing kit. BIG DIFFERENCE!!! Other items still stock.
Bottom Line:
The 2000 FSR has cheap plastix bushings in the dropouts. I bought the Mountain Speed X Factor and Dropout Bearing kit.
Anyone who owns one of these bikes has to put these two items on their bike. My biggest complaint about the bike was the very loose and sloppy back end. I swear, on hard riding, the back end would pass me up! It was all over the place. Standing on the pedals for hard cranking up hills and such only made it worse.
The MSP stuff stuff did the trick. A really good bike before; now a lot better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA USA Date Reviewed: October 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything singletrack!!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Cupertino Bike Shop
Strengths:
good adjustment on the front and rear shocks, easy to dial in, nice shifters, good brakes, full suspension works well for amount of travel.
Weaknesses:
noisy, need to keep suspension lubed to keep it quiet, noisy cranks too, tires too skinny; 2.1's would have been better, low bottom bracket
Similar Products Used:
Specialized hardtail,
Bike Setup:
stock so far. I will change the rear shock setup for increased travel and switch to the bearing cartridges for the rear suspension soon.
Bottom Line:
great bike. For all around riding, it fits the bill perfect. No bobbing on the uphills, able to handle jumps without bottoming out if setup right. The shifting is flawless and feels positive al the time. Full suspension made all the difference after riding a Specialized hardtail for 15 years. I would recommend to anyone. One downfall is the wobble in the rear if you stand on the pedals; back end, with the fully active suspension, gets "loose" after a while. "Go over, not around!"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stefano Ereno
a
from Padova, Italy Date Reviewed: September 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Colli Euganei, Dolomiti, Altopiano di Asiago
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Racing Bike Sport, Padova
Strengths:
Rapporto qualità-prezzo, la bici è leggera e performante in salita. Prima full di un rigidista convinto, mi ha letteralmente sconvolto: basta pedalare e passa sopra a (quasi) tutto!
Weaknesses:
Le boccole del carro posteriore necessitano di manutenzione costante e attenzione alle coppie di serraggio dei fulcri, altrimenti la sospensione tende ad irrigidirsi. Il registro del rebound della Mars 2000 viene letteralmente sparato nelle affondate più violente, perché è inserito a pressione direttamente nel fodero della forcella: ne ho persi tre, poi non l'ho più rimontato (uso una chiave a brugola).
Bike Setup:
Body Geometry S-Works saddle, Panaracer Fire XC Pro 2.1 rear, Specialized Team Control 2.0 front, Zoom 10 cm 10° stem
Bottom Line:
La geometria della sospensione con il giunto Horst è uno standard che moltissimi costruttori hanno copiato (a volte male) a Specialized: la sospensione è davvero sempre attiva, anche in frenata con i v-brakes. Sui fondi veloci non fa rimpiangere le front, è senz'altro la bici ideale per le granfondo.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Spokane, WA Date Reviewed: September 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Beacon Hill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
weight, handling, climbing
Weaknesses:
stock brakes are ok but not the greatest, cranks could be better. stock tires are really hardpack-oriented, and the dirt here is a little too loose for them.
Similar Products Used:
assorted hardtails, 2001 Enduro FSR Elite
Bike Setup:
Completely stock with the exception of the tires. ritchey megabyte front/panaracer smoke rear.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I should say first that I'm a relatively lightweight rider - 145 pounds, so if you weigh 200+ your mileage may vary. I got a closeout deal in February this year on a 2000 model for $1250. I ride this bike a lot, mostly on moderately steep climbs and descents with generally bumpy, rocky terrain. I was hesitant to convert to a dualie after 12 years riding hardtails but I am really glad I did. I have the bike dialed in relatively stiff so for me it climbs like a hardtail but still takes the edge off fast, bumpy descents. My only complaints are that the brakes are a little short on modulation for extremely steep stuff - they are as good as any cable-brakes I've ever tried but if you were more downhill-oriented I think you'd want hydraulics. Also the cranks are a little flexy, but at my weight it isn't really noticable unless I immediately hop on a buddies bike which has much stiffer cranks. If I have the money I may change them next year but if not it won't be the end of the world. Otherwise, I'll leave this bike alone and just enjoy the ride. The stable handling and tremendous grip I experience with this bike has made me a much better rider this season. It is much more confidence-inspiring and capable than my previous bike (hardtail stumpjumper) over any terrain I've ridden so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerry Gentry
a Cross Country Rider
from New Fairfield, CT Date Reviewed: September 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Bike Express
Strengths:
Overall fit and suspension design. Lightweight, built to ride off road
Weaknesses:
the cranks
Similar Products Used:
RockHopper, GT Avalanche
Bike Setup:
Standard, except I changed out to a Marzocchi Atom 80 front shock, Time pedals and Mythos tires. Next will be new wheels and then cranks.
Bottom Line:
I looked at full suspension for a while and this bike really seemed to hit the mark for me. I've worked at finding the right tuning, or variations of tuning, for the different types of rides I do. The litmus test is that each time I see it in the garage I look forward to the next ride. I doubt I would go back to a hardtail again (although, the GT Avalanche is still a fantastic bike). My rear Fox shock compressed a few days ago and the bike store owner was able to unstick it. He showed me where in the Fox owners manual it talks about how to do that and explained that I probably had my rebound dampening set too high and was defeating the negative release. It all made sense. I re-read the manual and tried a different combination of compression and rebound; took it out to a rocky forest trail and was very satisfied. Besides, its red!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Manipis
a Weekend Warrior
from Issaquah, WA, King Date Reviewed: August 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tiger Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bikes
Strengths:
Light, fast, great climber, front and rear shock easy to adjust and lube, brakes. I have put around 200 miles and so far mo major problems.
Weaknesses:
Seat (too hard) & low bottom bracket (pedals hit the ground).
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. I was able to get a 2000 closeout model for $1200.00. This bike climbs great. The Deore shifters,the brakes, shocks perform very good. Very little bobbing noticed when peddling.
I rode a hard tail before and I can really tell the difference. I have more control on the trails and my rear feels a whole lot better. For the price I paid, this was a steal relative to other bikes at this price point.
I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a FAST, LIGHT bike.
I have heard some negative things about the plastic bushings and how they wear. I put a teflon lube on them so I hope I can prolong their wear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Lenseth
a Cross Country Rider
from Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Date Reviewed: July 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Grahm hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Bike Express
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
Handle bars bend on me with in a week but upgraded them with a downhill style and have been great every since. The tires also sux. Upgrade those
Similar Products Used:
N/A
Bike Setup:
Stock with new handle bars and tires
Bottom Line:
Great bike for price. Will never buy another bike for any other manufacturer. Specialized makes great bikes at fair prices
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kel Boisvert
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft. Sask Alta, Canada Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
It's all good baby!!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Revolution Cycle
Strengths:
Great component package wrapped around a nice light frame. Colour is a real eye catcher!
Weaknesses:
The bottom bracket is way too low for getting over logs and rocks that other bikes seem to breeze over. Why does it not come standard with a body geometry seat?!! Bad pedals, I had those replaced before it even left the store.
Similar Products Used:
Not many that I haven't!!
Bike Setup:
Monkey lite bars, Hayes disc's, RaceFace Next cranks and rings, Risse racing link to increase rear travel (and bracket height!), RaceFace stem and a set of Panaracer tires.
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike, other than the ride height which was a real pain until I purchased the longer travel link. Why specialized didn't offer it themselves baffles me still. Light and easy to throw around in the trails. Great value for the dollar. I would have given it a 5 out of 5 for overall, but I was pretty ticked about the bracket height and the lack of adjustability on the rear linkage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from San Luis Obispo Date Reviewed: April 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1399.00
Purchased At:
Art's SLO
Strengths:
Light weight for a full suspension at this price. Mine weighs 26.5 lbs. Great component mix (XT/XTR). Very tunable suspension. A five psi change in the FOX Float R makes a big difference in the ride. The Maitou MARS responds the same way. Be sure to set up the sag at about 25% to get obtimum response from the suspension. Great paint job! The bike has 200 miles on it, including some uh-oh drops, and still looks like new, dispite one cartwheeling episode down a mountain-side.
Weaknesses:
The FOX Float R went flat 30 days out of the box, but FOX repaired the shock and I was back riding in one week. No problems since. The suspension will creak and moan if not maintained. The bike needs to be cleaned regularly and the rear suspension lubed with a few drops of motor oil (per the Specilized web site). I tried this and it seems to do the trick. The noise does not affect the ride, but a bike at this price should be quite. I've had no crank problems like some of the other reviews, but have broken a few teeth off of the large chain ring with only minor hits.
If not for the failed rear shock and the persistent creaking from the rear suspension, this bike would rate 5 flamin' chilis. Great value at the price I paid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Logan Watson
a Cross Country Rider
from Raleigh, NC, USA Date Reviewed: April 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
New Light
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Franklin Street Cycles, Chapel Hill, NC
Strengths:
Good overall bike. XT/XTR is the best feature, along w/ full suspension. Frame is light/unbelievable!
Weaknesses:
Pedals are difficult to release, tires are not nobby but extremely fast.
Similar Products Used:
Sugar 1, Trek(full suspension), Performance
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I really like the performance of the bike. I am a completely different rider on this bike now, confidence is through the roof!! I go over ever thing without hesitation. The XT/XTR is so smooth and precise. FAST AS HELL. I like the thinner tires(1.9) than I have had in the past, but do not work as well in mud. Full suspension is definitely the difference. Manitou MARS and Fox R are perfect, uphill/downhill. I did bend the largest ring on large fallen trees(covered by warranty - 5 yrs). Go buy, if you have the money. The bike is perfect for a person my weight -170lbs. You may have seatpost problems with more weight. Do not avoid FS, you will love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ricko
a Racer
from Colorado Springs, CO, USA Date Reviewed: April 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
PORCUPINE RIM BABY!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1875.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Villiage ( OOPS)
Strengths:
Nice racer for the price. Nice suspension system. Good component selection. Fun Bike.
Weaknesses:
Everyone is saying how they are having porblems with rounding out the cranks. Its the Bottom bracket. Its an LX. My pedals arent too great. THE SEAT IS FINE IF YOU WEAR BIKING PANTS. The avid brakes are crappy. Weak wheel set
Bike Setup:
Stock except tires( TEAM CONTROL 2.0 In the front TEAM MASTER 1.9 in the rear ) Getting new seat and brakes. Bottom bracket is now XT.
Bottom Line:
Good bike if you are serious and race. Not made for huge drops and fast rocky descents ( I learned the hard way ). But if you know how to ride its great fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a
from Farmington, NM, USA Date Reviewed: March 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Allien Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Cottonwood Cycles
Strengths:
Great frame!! Light, Stiff, and fast.
Weaknesses:
Where should I Begin! The Cranks Suck!!!!! I have no idea how many times they have come loose. I have broke 2 teeth off of the middle ring. Bent the big ring. The fork leaks air: All the time!! Handle bar was two wide. I kept slipping pedals!!
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar 1, Klein Mantra Comp,
Bike Setup:
Easton Monkey Light bar, 747 pedals, Body Geometry pro saddel (can't have numb nuts!) XTR cranks. SID SL FORK, KORE Light stem
Bottom Line:
The only thing that Specialized does well is frames, and saddels. But Specialized frames can't be beat! If you are would like to know more about this bike E-mail me at stinkydelux@collegeclub.com. Or if you have any ?'s on bike repair. I used to work at Cottonwood Cycles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Efrain Martinez Jr.
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami, Florida Date Reviewed: November 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Bike Tech
Strengths:
Lightweight & XTR Components & Climbing Ability
Weaknesses:
Handlebars, Tires
Similar Products Used:
1998 Specialized FSR Extreme
Bike Setup:
Changed Handlebars, Changed Tires To Panaracer fire xc pro's
Bottom Line:
The 2000 Stumpjumper FSR Comp is a great bike for the person ready to purchase full suspension for first time. Handles corners fantastic with Panaracers and climbs hills like a champ. Other reviews say the bike is not fast but I think the bike flies. The red color on the bike makes it look like a champion. Highly recommend it to everyone! Make sure salesman throws in a shock pump.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Wiltshire, UK Date Reviewed: October 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Whitre bottom
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1540.00
Purchased At:
Evans Cycles
Strengths:
Frame weight, XT XTR group, Mars fork, fox float r shock. All of these components are quality and work very well. There is very little bob in the frame and the extra weight over my trusted hardtail is well worth it, I'm sure this bike is faster. The bike rockets down sections where I would have had to take it easy in the past. Even up hill the extra grip is fantastic. The Mars forks are far better than I expected, they are almost as good as Pace and have you ever tried to service Rock Shox SID's, why the pro model comes with SID's and the Comp with Mars I don't know, in the UK the SID's are £90 cheaper.
Weaknesses:
Cranks in the running for the most flexy crank award 2000. I mean I paid £1100 for the bike £300 less than suggested in the UK but still to get crap like this is a joke. I had read the reviews but couldn't believe how poor they are. Rear shock in the line of fire of the rear wheel is a real pain in the UK mud, have found a lizzard skin and old inner tube help but still not ideal. Grips are more like slips in the wet Tyres are ok but seem to have a special compound that makes mud stick and turn them into slicks Rear brakes seem to hit the rim under compression of the rear shock and no rear disc mounts Pedals are hard to adjust and release Saddle very very very very very hard
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Sugar Dyna Tech Ti hard tail
Bike Setup:
Stock except Panaracer fire xc pro tyres, titec micro bar ends, Yeti hardcore grips, time atac, LX hollowtech cranks flite saddle, two inches off the bars.
Bottom Line:
I got the bike in the end of season sale and am very happy, it looks great and performs very well.
It does however really p*&s me off that for this kind of money Specialized can get away with a cheap seat post, a crap saddle and don't get me stared on those cranks. The pedals look good but are a crash waiting to happen. The wheels seem fine but I am expecting to need to replace them sooner than an Shimano set.
TOP TIP: REPLACE THE CRANKS BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE SHOP, DEORE CRANKS WOULD BE BETTER.
Still the spec, except the pedals, is better than the 2001 model which only has LX shifters and front mech and still the same cranks and in the UK costs £1500 ie approx $2100.
In hindsight should have bought a 2000 s-works FSR frame for £700 and built to own spec, would have cost more but quality from the start.
The FSR XC Comp is still I reckon the best off the peg full sup XC bike only the Sugar come close and has a lower spec for the same money. Its just a shame that its not perfect stock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tatsufumi Numata
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore Date Reviewed: October 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The one I'm Exploring
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Some Bike shop in Tampines
Strengths:
Was worried at first coz I was also a hardtail convert; the FSR bobs only very slightly under power on the roads-unnoticeable on the trails--truly a great suspension system! Acceleration on this baby is fantastic-leaps forward with every pedal stroke; Definitely makes a difference at the trails! No sore lower back allows me to go longer; now trying out things that I never felt confortable doing with my hardtail,eg. Extremely rocky,rooty,whatever s**t conditions u can think off; Did I mention that the looks of the bike rocks??? Especially after putting on some FOX stickers on it..... MARS fork was fabulous and soaked up everything thrown at it; Fork is soooo easy to maintain with microlube ports; TPC RULEZ!!! Flex is unnoticeable, probably coz i weigh around 140 pounds.... =-) Uphills are so darn easy now- the suspension seems to make the rear tyre stick to the terrain... Managed to go up slopes that i didn't conquer b4 on my hardtail... Forgot to metion that the FOX R on the rear is buttery smooth!!! Last but not least.... Bike is featherly light; Weighs Less than my hardtail... Need I say more?
Weaknesses:
The seat is horrendous!!! Esp if u love epic,long,scenic rides.The company could have speced the waaay comfortable Body Geometry Saddle at this price range; The e-plate front derailleur is giving me headaches when I downshift from middle to granny ring- Slow and unprecise shifting.... And the chain is Rubbing against the derailleur guide when in granny or Large ring; THe front derailleur is extremely hard to tune-even the bike shop mechanics can't really eliminate the problem of the sloppy shifting... I've also notice that oen of the hinges of the mech actually hits the "seatstay" of the frame when shifting from middle to granny ring-THis is extremely shocking coz I can already see a small dent where it occurs!!! Fixing on a front fender a quite a problem due to the silver'red insert in the MARS fork (recall of forks);the insert can be pulled out hard if the fender mount was attached to it... can't fix on fenders with larger mounting inserts either... The tyre are sketchy on most parts of the trail(1.9 inch tyres), esp on gravel and roots- changed tyres to my old velocirators... Specialized rear hub kept making a grinding noise after a few rides at the trails that felt very sickening in the stomach.... Immediately changed hub to Shimano's XT...
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Superlight; Gary Fisher Sugar 2
Bike Setup:
Coda Barends; Chris King headset; Shimano XT crank+ splined BB; front and rear fenders; Thomsom seatpost; Specialized Body Geometry saddle(the numbness is finally gone); Velociraptor tyres; Shimano XT rear hub
Bottom Line:
This is truly a bike worth the cash , although there are setbacks in the shifting departing ( front derailleur) The proven suspension system speak for itself, although the bike does feel a little sketchy at high speeds(perhaps due to the 1.9 inch tyres?) U will either love or hate the 25 inch handle bars..... But the last time I checked, u can't really add inches to a handlebar... =-) I totally digged it; gives superb leverage at slow speeds... Would have been perfect if not for the seat and front derailleur; Hope the company gets it fixed by next year... A great bike , however for the cash... Good start for hardtail converts... Who are trying not to burn a hole in their wallet... Great for riders looking for comfort, style and speed at the trails; Although it may not appeal to hardcore hardtail riders... And of course, no more back pain!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Dembereckyj
a Weekend Warrior
from Allen, TX, USA Date Reviewed: September 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Arbor Hills, Plano, TX
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Richardson bike mart
Strengths:
Very reliable bike that can take a beating from a newbie rider like me and still keep running.
Weaknesses:
Nasty saddle. For the money they could have put something with a pad in it.
Bike Setup:
Stock setup.
Bottom Line:
I have owned the bike for 3 months. My first real mountain bike and I can see why people get hooked to the sport. I have managed to run some simple trails and raced in my first adventure race and the bike was terrific. Would have my highest recommendation if the seat did not make you want to ride standing up. Change that puppy and have some big fun with this bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphi, PA, USA Date Reviewed: September 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
Frame weight, 4 bar linkage rear suspension, certain components and geometry.
Weaknesses:
Handle bar, 3 spacers for headset, pedals, cranks and tires.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Shimano M646(?) downhill pedals (like the platform for technical riding and a Terry "The Fly Seat".
Bottom Line:
This is the first full suspension bike I've bought and owned. I've been riding an old Kona Kilewea for six years. Almost everything is great about it; weight, ride and most of the components. Feels great; no back pains. Light enough for full suspension, but plan to upgrade bottom bracket, crank set, head set, stem and wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Springfield, NH Date Reviewed: September 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1675.00
Strengths:
This bike is light, accelerates fast, not too expensive, great coponent mix, and looks frikkin cool!
Weaknesses:
The Shimano BB-UN52 bottom bracket is weak. The lateral flex is horrible, immediately upgrade with a Race Face Taperlock. The saddle is uncomfortable... and the Mars fork is too stiff for most
Similar Products Used:
GT XCR-3000, Trek Y-22, Specialized FSR Sport
Bike Setup:
27 speed XT/XTR, Strongarm II cranks, Stumpjumper wheelset, Marzocchi Bobmer Z4 flylight air, Control Tech stem, Race Face low riser bar and BB, Michelin Wildgripper S kevlar tires in green, Kore clipless pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike, with just a few changes is perhaps the ultimate cross country machine. It has little to no biopacing, light enough to race, and is a head turner to the hardtail croud. I personally love the feel of a Bomber, but the Mars fork my be adequate for some. The Float R shock is great, although i am on my second one (damn downhill instinct). GO OUT AND GET AN FSR NOW!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from Oz Date Reviewed: September 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Brisbane ranges
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Less fatique on my HONKY toosh and back over longer distances, compared to my Cannondale F1000 (a nice bike). At 100kgs (about) I expexted some flex and yep there sure is, particularly in the rear. Overall, a ridgy didge bike.
Weaknesses:
Seat - ooa ooa! Pedals - Scary! (These got changed to Shimanos') Handlebar too wide, CUT, CUT, CUT... Rear end flex at high speed - live with it! Changed tyres to IRC Mythos (never liked specialized tyres)
Similar Products Used:
Giant
Bike Setup:
As per changed tyres, seat etc
Bottom Line:
The Australian Dollar is Merde! This makes for a moderately priced bike in the USA, a very expensive proposition in OZ! Second time round? Yeah I get this bike again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gary
a Cross Country Rider
from fort lauderdale, fl Date Reviewed: September 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
oleta river
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
easy rider cycles
Strengths:
Frame, weight, handling capabilities, durability
Weaknesses:
Seatpost, crankset, pedals
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000, Sugar 3.0
Bike Setup:
LP carbon seatpost, Ritchey comp pedals, Easton Monkeylite carbon riser bar and Specialized Body Geometry MTB saddle.
Bottom Line:
I agree with the solid reviews on this bike---it is a great overall bike, and leaves you some $$$ to add upgrades that make it even better. The suspension on this bike, coupled with a strong yet light frame, make for a sweet handling experience on technical terrain.....and ain't the hills easier!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Edward Yates
a Cross Country Rider
from SF, CA Date Reviewed: August 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Mike's Bikes
Strengths:
Lightweight! XTR Rear Derailleur. Nice front shock (but it is leaking).
Weaknesses:
Low Bottom Bracket, Short Top Tube and cruiser bike like geometry.
Similar Products Used:
'97 Cannondale F-700 (Fast, stiff, light and pounds the body). Demoed: GT-XCR1500 (heavy, expensive), Cannondale Jekyll 700SX (Quicker, plusher and also light), Rocky Mtn. Element Race (Solid, good all around bike but not that responsive or light), Giant DS-2 (Great all around bike, very nice ride and inexpensive. I may purchase its big brother.)
Bike Setup:
Stock. Serfas Seat.
Bottom Line:
If you have a long torso forget this bike unless you like freefalling. I am 6-2 with a relatively long torso and my head is looking down almost directly over the hub. My bottom bracket hit a medium sized root and I ejected over the handlebars even though I was not going that fast and I rarely fall (not ballsy enough). But if you have a short torso and/or like to ride with your back straight up (e.g. lower back problems) this is a great X-country bike: it is light, it climbs, descends and sticks through nasty rocks and roots better than the Cannondale hardtail (a super climber)and for the money, you get super components. Weird rating below but so is that geometry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Osvaldo Menegon
a Weekend Warrior
from Torino Italy Date Reviewed: July 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Bici leggera, precisa, comoda. Ottimo rapporto qualità prezzo.
Weaknesses:
Guarnitura flette troppo (io peso 74Kg)
Bottom Line:
L'accoppiamento della guarnitura specialized con il 9 rapporti shimano non è probabilmente stata un'idea azzeccata viste le flessioni dalla Strong Arm ed i saltuari salti di catena utilizzando il pignone da 30 denti con corona da 32(ma servono veramente 9 rapporti nel mtb? bah...io ho qualche dubbio. Per il resto tutto ok. La vostra schiena vi ringrazierà.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX, USA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Forest Ridge, Austin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light for a full-suspension XTR Rear derailluer & XT shifters Looks
Weaknesses:
Specialized components -- mostly seat, pedals, and tires. Rear shock does not have lockout, which would be great on this bike (The FSR XC Pro has the Fox float RC with lockout)
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Superlight and Heckler Schwinn Rocket 88 Stage 2 (Test Rides) Nishiki Manitoba
Bike Setup:
Shimano XT Middle ring
Bottom Line:
I am very pleased with this bike. Before purchasing this bike, I test-rode some FS bikes and several salespeople compared the bikes to the Specialized FSR. "It's just like the FSR..." or "If you like the FSR, you'll love this". Then I rode the FSR and found out what everyone was referring to. It is light, solid, and predictable. Besides the Specialized components, it's a great value. Had to replace the middle ring due to chain such. For that, I have to give it 4 glowing worms on the overall...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian
a Cross Country Rider
from Orlando, FL USA Date Reviewed: June 25, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Full suspension! I love it!
Weaknesses:
Handlebars are to long, but can always be cut down. Specialized brand pedals.
Similar Products Used:
No other full suspension, had a M2 hardtail.
Bike Setup:
Cut down bars. Swapped comp tires for teams, Mt. Baldy in the rear. Swapped Specialized pedals for Shimano 858's. Thomson seatpost.
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome. Not only is it more of a pleasure to ride than a hardtail, it has made me a better rider. Through rocky or rooty trails and downhill sections the tires stay on the ground, which gives me more control, which gives me more speed, which gives me more confidence, etc. Freinds that used to stay with me on those sections are now being dropped. A lot of people complain about Specialized crank, they are working fine for me. The MARS fork is a little narrow and it is hard to get a fully inflated tire through the brakes. The Ritchey seatpost creaked a little so I got a Thomson. The pedals I had heard bad thing about so I didn't even try them. Besides, Shimano or Time are the only way to go. All in all, a wonderful bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Saverio Ottolini
a Racer
from Verbania ITALY Date Reviewed: June 14, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
disc brake
Weaknesses:
wheels and tire
Bottom Line:
E' una bicicletta troppo pesante, va bene per fare del freeride, anche se non troppo esasperato. L'ideale per chi ha già un po di soldi da spendere e vuole cominciare con una bici comoda e sicura
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ROBIN CHAN
a Weekend Warrior
from CALGARY, ALTA CANADA Date Reviewed: June 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
very sturdy and strong frame, shocks and brakes
Weaknesses:
can not find any so far
Similar Products Used:
schwin stage 3
Bottom Line:
I had a good and smooth ride with excellent handling overall at the fish creek park in calgary, alta. I can ride the bike all day long without tireness. The bike is resonable light approx.26lbs. good index shifting as well. i like the strong avid front and rear breaks. it stop very quickly and very responsive. Front shock and rear shock are working well together. So far for the first month riding, I could find anything yet. Hope the bike performance can stay for years.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Buton
a Cross Country Rider
from Oregon Date Reviewed: June 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
If it's dirt I love it
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
This bike is light, Nimble, and sturdy. Best suspension I have ever used. It's so good that sometimes forget I even have suspension...of course thats until I ride my hardtail.
Weaknesses:
The handlebars!!! What's up with that? The seat!!!! OUCH!!!
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Dakar Comp. Marin East Peak. Cannondale SuperV 800.
Bike Setup:
To start 2 inches off my bars. SDG comp ti saddle. Kore Elite stem. LP Compostites Bars,Barends and post.
Bottom Line:
Let me tell you about the handlebars....My very first ride with the bike, My very first bail with the bike. I caught the bars smack in my ribs. They were so long that even with my arms outstretched to break the fall, the bars still caught me. I drove the bars at least 3" in the dirt and bruised my ribs. The next day I busted out the hack saw and off came 2 inches. The reason I'm writing is to hopefully save potential buyers the pain and misery of bruised ribs. CUT DOWN THE BARS BEFORE YOU RIDE!!! Other than that, This bike ROCKS!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BRI
a Cross Country Rider
from The Woodlands, TX Date Reviewed: June 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Warda
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light, great components, XT, XTR. Love the air shocks, ride great. This bike can climb, no bob at all.
Weaknesses:
Handle bars are too wide, debating on cutting them down a bit.
Similar Products Used:
Rode a Gary Fisher Joshua for 4 years.
Bike Setup:
Stock except tires. Went with slicks because I ride a lot of hard packed terrain.
Bottom Line:
This bike is an exceptional value. I was able to obtain mine for $1600 through a larger bike shop that has some purchasing power. The brakes are great (AVID 2.0) the MARS shock has been perfect. I love the microlube, less time on the work bench more time on the trail. I have had no problems with my seatpost, which I have heard a lot of other people talking about. The pedals could be swaped. I plan to put on some ATACs soon. The bike handles tight twising single track very well but will also handle most downhills with out trouble. Compared to other bikes in the price class it is by far the best value. Be sure you get the insert from Manitou or you bike shop. The MARS fork has a small problem that is easily fixed. This is a perfect bike for the die hard cross country rider. With the right modifications you can easily get this bike below 25 lbs. I love this bike and plan to ride it till it falls apart.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike Wingate
a Cross Country Rider
from Altrincham, cheshire,UK Date Reviewed: May 16, 2000
better than my road bike and only 2-3mph slower on the road with nimbus armadillo slicks at 80psi. fork recall-but plug easily fitted. Where do the sqeaks come from on the forks? Stripped the spec pedals to find minimal lubrication, sorted them out not bad, but not as good as 747's
Similar Products Used:
Klein mantra comp , too skittish at the front if on a downward slope.Marin Mt Vision-not in orange! Sintesi-a pogo stick on wheels, Scott-not bad. all full sus.
Bike Setup:
spec low risers with barends well foreward. Hope xc 4's on mavic 317's and Hope sport 6 bolt hubs fr and rear, pro levers.cateye cordless
Bottom Line:
I got a good deal . only £100 extra for the complete bike.Now i have the bar ends, I have got a really cofortable position. climbs well and fast but you have to sit down. terrific brakes,+&- controls work really well. Moving from a 53 chainring to a 44, I feel I could push a larger ring, maybe upgrade to an xtr chainset(46t) and xtr front mech. I would like to hear views on the shimano remote gearshift,I think it would be useful to me.At this price and spec it is really good value. But there again I am a 48 year old roadie at 12stone.At least the bike goes fast.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott simpson
a Cross Country Rider
from old hickory, tn, wilson Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
lock 4
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
looks,ride,shimano group,brakes,fox rear shock
Weaknesses:
crankset,seat post,headset,pedals
Similar Products Used:
rockhopper
Bike Setup:
chris king,ritchey,xt,xtr,fox,manitou mars,
Bottom Line:
Great crosscountry bike, climbs like a champ. Destroyed the headset in 4 months, replaced it with a chis king. The Manitou fork needed a retrofit plug, check with your local dealer if you own a 2000 mars. I gave the bike 5 chilis on value because its a great bike for under $2000 and about 24 1/2 lds. I gave it 4 chilis for overall rating because of the cheap headset and crankset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AARON BLEAKLEY
a Racer
from AUCKLAND NEWZEALAND Date Reviewed: May 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
GRAET HANDLING, LIGHT WEIGHT,VERY VERY VERY FAST
Weaknesses:
BAD SEAT,SEATPOST,PEDALS,WHEELS (PERSONAL PREFERENCES APPLY) DESTROYED WHEELS FIRST RIDE DUE TO POOR TENSIONING FROM FACTORY.MARS FORK.
Similar Products Used:
ALL FULL SUSP BIKES IN THIS PRICE RANGE
Bike Setup:
CROSSMAX WHEELS(RACE)CROSSLINK WHEEELS(TRAINING)STANDARD WHEELS(RUBBISH BIN) THOMPSON SEATPOST (THE ONLY AFTERMARKET ONE THAT FITS,BUT VERY NICE) FLITE KEVLAR SADDLE TIME CARBON PEDALS HUTCHISON MOSQUITO TIRES FOR RACING (470GRMS APPROX) KORE LITE STEM EASTON CARBON HANDLEBAR CHRIS KING H/SET WEIGHT 23.9 LBS IN RACE SPEC
Bottom Line:
THIS IS ONE AWESOME MACHINE!!!!!!! APART FROM A FEW TEETHING PROBLEMS, THE BIKE RUNS BEAUTIFULLY. I RECEIVED A VERY EARLY SAMPLE OF STOCK, WELL BEFORE THE PROBLEM OF THE FORK WAS RECITIFIED.WHEN THE FORK STARTED CREAKING LOUDLY UNDER BRAKING, I NEARLY WET MYSELF. WHEN I WENT TO THE AGENT WHO DISTRIBUTES ANSWER PRODUCTS IN NZ, AND WE SPENT A DAY TRYING TO FIND OUT WHAT WAS CAUSING THE PROBLEM(HE HAD NOT YET RECEIVED NOTIFICATION FROM ANSWER USA YET). IN THE END WE DECIDED THAT IT WAS THE FORK CROWN-STEERER TUBE JUNCTION THAT WAS MAKING THE NOISE, AND ORDERED A NEW ASSEMBLY FROM THE STATES.BY THE TIME HE GOT THE PART HE HAD BEEN NOTIFIED ABOUT THE RETROFIT. IF YOU HAVE NOT HAVE THE ALUMINIUM PLUG PUT INTO YOUR FORK, CONTACT YOUR BIKE SHOP IMMEDIATELY !!!!!!!! BY THE WAY, THANKS TO BJ AT SPORTSPRO FOR LOOKING AFTER ME. I CRACKED THE FRAME WHERE THE SEATPOST INSERTS INTO THE FRAME, EVEN THOUGH I WAS RUNNING THE SEATPOST TO THE MINIMUM INSERTION HOLE IN THE FRAME. I WOULD ADVISE ANYONE OVER 70 KGS TO MAKE SURE THAT THEY RUN AS MUCH SEATPOST IN THE FRAME AS THEY CAN. THE BIKE WAS SOLD TO ME WITH THE BUSHINGS UN-LUBRICATED, AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS THE WAY THEY ARRIVED IN THE COUNTRY. IF YOUR BIKE SHOP DID NOT GREASE THE BUSHINGS AT SALE TIME, THEN GET THEM LUBED BEFORE YOUR FIST RIDE! THE BEST GREASE TO USE (A TIP FROM BJ), IS AN ALUMINIUM GREASE FROM LOCTITE, OR ANY METAL BASED GRAPHITE GREASE/ANTISEIZE BE PREPARED TO HAVE A REGULAR REGREASING PROGRAM OR THE BUSHINGS WON'T LAST.
THIS BIKE IS JUST SO GOOD THAT I DONT KNOW WHAT I WOULD DO WITHOUT IT! THIS IS THE PERFECT BIKE FOR ANYONE WHO ENJOYS JUST RACING-RIDING AT THE LIMIT
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
vernbio
a Cross Country Rider
from Springfield, Virginia Date Reviewed: May 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
West VA Mountains
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very smooth ride with excellent tracking. Shifters, drive-train quiet and reliable. Lightweight for the price. So far the Fox Float R has been bombproof, easy to set and no air loss. 175 psi works well for me(170 lbs body weight). Nice finish and paintjob.
Weaknesses:
Seat is a bit hard in the wrong places. Manitou Mars shock required an immediate retrofit. Call Answer Products for the insert for the bottom of the steerer tube. The shock also requires some time to dial in the correct settings to prevent bob. The traction of the Specialized Comp tires in either dry or muddy conditions do not inspire confidence.
Similar Products Used:
Test rode Santa Cruz Superlight X and Gary Fisher Sugar 3
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock - Tires are being replaced with Bontrager Jones, looking for a new seat. Cut 1-1/8" off each end of the bars.
Bottom Line:
Great ride - smooth, climbs as well or better than my old M2 Stumpjumper. It would have been nice to get it on sale, but.... A shock pump is a necessary investment. Great cross country bike for all riding conditions, very agile handling.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Simpson
a Cross Country Rider
from Lima, NY US Date Reviewed: May 5, 2000
I held off on full suspension thinking the extra weight was not worth it, With this bike there is no penalty, It handles well in every trail that I've been on so far, the suspension allows you more confidence and longer duration rides, this was the lightest bike I could find for under $2000, and it is hung with some nice shimano parts, both front and rear shock have been easy to set up, it took a while to get it dialed into the right feel
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Gerencser
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: April 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Cypress Mountain - Vancouver
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
I was scared of the geometry at first, this being my first owned Full Susp., but I'm getting used to it. Quite well, in fact. Hooks up nicely on climbs and absorbs a lot of mud and rocks. You see, I have the Int'l. Model with Hayes disk brakes and man can I stop on a dime!! Face plant included. The cockpit is soooo open I'm not scared of peeling the boys of the top tube! However, great ride and it came with a Specialized Team Jersey and Hat!! Perks, huh??
Weaknesses:
Seatpost, seatpost, and seatpost. Oh yeah, and the saddle is tough on the ham if you know what I mean. You know that little plastic cover on the shifter indicator (front der.)? Well that little thing buzzes the whole time I ride- Shimano's fault, though. Disk brakes squealed a little but I haven't taken it back in for a service follow-up yet.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher F3 - Demoed it from George's Cycle (free plug there) last summer. The rear shock (brand?) was a little soft and the tuning was not accurate enough. Not a bad ride but a lot of in-house components. (Shhhh - big daddy Trek is listening...)
Bike Setup:
All original XT/XTR exept- TIME Composite pedals Specialized Low Riser bar Tioga Fat 66 front 1.95 Panaracer XC 2.25 rear Cat-Eye cordless Pride. Pure pride.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I'm hoping to take it back to Cypress Mountain (and perhaps Grouse Mountain) in Vancouver soon. Those are serious trails to keep your colon power. As Mounatin Bike Magazine said, even the best trials riders should turn away!! This bike is a definite worthy investment because of what you get for the money!! Amazing setup with a few alterations and you have one of the best machines on the trails!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andrew rubins
a Cross Country Rider
from melbourne, australia Date Reviewed: April 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
french island
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The comfort factor... no more back ache! Traction on the uphills. Cool look!
Weaknesses:
As everyone else has said, the specialized parts are hopeless, other than that i am very happy that i chose it.
Similar Products Used:
looked at the giant but the geometry looked wrong and felt wrong
Bike Setup:
After reading many hundreds of reviews on this site, I replaced before purchase the cranks and chainrings, pedals and tyres... now have XT cranks, avitar chainrings, 747pedals (only $135 at bicycle express in adelaide for the aussie readers) and Klein deathgrip tyres. I am looking to replace the Ritchey seat post as you have to really tighten the seat clamp hard in order for the seat to stay level. Thomson seatposts are very expensive here in Australia but from the reviews, they are the only seatpost worth having in the 30.9mm diameter.
Bottom Line:
I purchased the bike with one race in mind, the Simpson Desert Cycle Classic, a 5 day stage race in the first week of Oct on an old dirt track in the middle of Australia. The daily distance is 75miles split into 2 stages and there is over 400 sandunes in the first day and the last 2 days are over rough and rocky ground. Therefore i was looking for comfort, reasonably light weight and geometry closer to my roadbike. For these reasons i chose the FSR XC Comp over the Giant and GT XC bikes. At this point in the training, the bike has been great although, as others have said, it takes a while to get the suspension set up right. I've cut down the handlebars by over 10cms(4inches) and have turned the stem upside down to get a better position. So far the bike has minimised my chronic back pain and, on hills, grips like glue. Unlike others, the rear suspension hasn't been a problem although i pump it up each ride and the Specialized customer service people have been great. The most useful tip i can give is that the rear linkages creak if you don't lubricate them after cleaning and the recommended lubricant for them is plain old motor oil which suits me! (plain and old,that is) I agree with everyone else, i believe you should get a rear shock pump with the bike... you can't manage without one long term but it appears to be the norm that it is an extra purchase! If anyone reading this can recommend good tyres for sandy conditions (other than saying something wide and at low pressure) I'd really appreciate it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luca Gervasoni
a Cross Country Rider
from Brescia, Italy Date Reviewed: March 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
rifugio Bozzi/sentiero Italia
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
very light bike. In size L it is only 12,2 kgs (26,9lbs) weighted by myself. It climbs very smoothly and with very minimal loss of power. Mars fork, Fox rear shock.
Weaknesses:
Seatpost sucks! You cannot set with precision the inclination (up or down) of the saddle. Saddle is veeeery hard. I had it excanged with a softer one.
Similar Products Used:
none. Only front suspend from italian production (olympia and other artisans)
Bike Setup:
Standard (identical to the american market model) except "lookin" gel saddle and "Ritchey pro logic" pedals.
Bottom Line:
Quite expensive bike on the Italian market (20% more than similar bikes) but if you want a good performance xcountry full suspended bike it seems you do not have many other choices. This bike seems to feel very well climbing our rocky and steep paths on the Alps. I believe that air suspension are the best for x country becouse they are very light; personally I weight 80 kgs (177lbs) and I do not feel them to soft. Obviously if you like downhill this are not the suspension and the bike for you!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Tyner
a Cross Country Rider
from San Luis Obispo, California, USA Date Reviewed: March 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
so many
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Lightweight, price, balanced suspension that doesn't eat up your pedal strokes, some XT and XTR components, rims, tires, adjustable Fox rear shock, Manitou Mars front suspension is nice.
Weaknesses:
All of the Specialized components suck. MAKE the bike shop swap out the Specialized pedals. Huffy could make a better pedal. They are horrible. Specialized cranks aren't stiff. The grips suck. Only a 44 tooth big ring, way too slow. Can't raise the front derailer to accommodate a larger big ring. Ritchey seatpost sucks because it bent.
Similar Products Used:
GT Zaskar
Bike Setup:
Sweet Parts 0 degree Ti stem. Thomson Elite seatpost. Selle Italia Flite saddle, Bontrager Race Lite bar ends, my old shimano 525 peddels because the specialized peddles sucked so bad, cat-eye cyclecomputer.
Bottom Line:
Having raced cross-country for several years back in the early 90s when racing was much better then it is today, I never thought I'd buy a full suspension bike. Know one made a full suspension bike that benefited the cross-country rider. I also was never a fan of Specialized. I still don't think I truly am. The FSR XC Comp is, though, a very sweet deal. The price is right. I picked mine up for about $1600, the first one the bike shop got in. On the dirt it's obviously smoother and to my suprise a lot faster then my Zaskar. It's very light, handles good, is fast downhill, has some XT and XTR components, and has a full suspension system that works great for a cross-country rider. The 2000 FSR XC Comp is what a mountain bike should be. It is a joy to ride. Just replace the pedals!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed
a Cross Country Rider
from Hampshire UK Date Reviewed: March 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light weight , Good climber , Looks sweet
Weaknesses:
Odd sizing , Still in 2 minds about 9 speed in UK mud . Chain rings look fragile and cheap
Similar Products Used:
Marin Mount Vision
Bike Setup:
Stock apart from Seat , changed to Bontrager , bars changed to X-Lite risers and pedals to 535's
Bottom Line:
The sizing is a little strange , definitely try before you buy and be prepared to cut down the seat post and change the stem/bar . The rear break cable routing rubs against my leg , it's not a fault but it bugs me . My only real worry is how long the pivot bearings will last after a few muddy rides . This has to be one of the best full sus XC machines around , for years I've remained unconvinced about full sus but this bike has changed my view .Once the shocks are dialled in , take your time it's worth it , it's excellent. Climbs as well as a hard tail , and as for picking lines down hill forget it , just point , hang on and go . A good all round XC bike , eats up what ever the trails throw at it .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Higgins
a Racer
from East Peoria, IL Date Reviewed: March 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Plank Trail @ Jubilee State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light Weight Proven Design(see Ned Overend/Xterra) Looks Sharp
Weaknesses:
Really limited on after-market seat posts. Would like to have sealed bearings at all pivots.
Similar Products Used:
My first dual suspension bike, but have test riden Kleins and Cannondales.
Bike Setup:
Fork=White Bros. sc72ul Headset=Cane Creek C5 Stem=Kore Elite 130mm @ 10* rise Handlebar=Bontrager Crowbar Race Shifters=Grip shift 9.0sl 9sp and rear derailleur Seat=WTB SSTK 98 Cranks=Kooka w/ Race Face rings Bottom Bracket=Race Face Ti Wheelset=Mavic 217CD/ XTR hubs/ DT 14-15 DB spokes
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that the more rides I take on this thing the less I care about what else is available, including the 27.5 pound Giant NRS. I have swapped alot of the components from my hardtail Kona to the FSR and vice versa, so it is not really the complete bike anymore. Most changes were due to personal preference, not that I had any bad experiences with the peices. However, I did not like the Mars fork. The thing just bobbed too much, even with max. pressure of 140 lbs. in there. As for the review, the bike is great and I can't wait to become more familiar with it's characteristics and have even better rides. The adjustable rebound on the Fox rear shock has a noticeable effect, even only two clicks worth. The frame does ride a bit small for a 17 inch medium, but the swapping of the stem/bar made the bike fit like a custom rig for me. Downhills are just a matter of holding on and letting the bike do the rest. The bike weighed 25.5 out of the box with reflectors, and with all my modifications comes in at 25. It probably could be a little lighter but at this point I feel I have a perfect bike. I weigh 180 pounds so I don't want to go so light I start breaking stuff, and I already know that 80% of my componets will endure cause they came off my hardtail. The weaknesses above are only there to fill in the space. This honestly is a super XC bike that can handle alot of different terrain without a problem! Buy one today!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank Reinbold
a Cross Country Rider
from Allamuchy, New Jersey Date Reviewed: March 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Allamuchy State Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Weight 26lbs, 19", FSR design
Weaknesses:
Odd sizing, can be confusing. Seat, hard as the rock your leaping over.
Similar Products Used:
Raven, Trek VSR
Bike Setup:
Stock, except cutting bars down some. Niterider DP12-E
Bottom Line:
As close to a hardtail as you want to get. Uphill stints are no problem yet it sucks up the hits nicely when it has to. Ride not as plush as Raven but absolutly NO POGO ! Sizing a little odd, Im 5'10" and always rode 18" the MED 17" felt small to me so I opted for the 19" LRG. This bike set the standard for FS bikes when it first came out. Everyone else is playing catch up (Giant?) Did I say that ?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray
a Cross Country Rider
from Southeast Pennsylvania Date Reviewed: March 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Brandywine Creek St. Park (DE)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
excellent suspension action, but still great power transfer. reasonable weight excellent climber
Weaknesses:
Occasional ghost shifts with 9 speed (9 speeds on mountain bikes is STUPID!). position is a bit more upright than I like. Still waiting for the seatpost to fail.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing beyond test rides on other full suspension Performance Hardtail
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock, but swapped out pedals for 535s, cranks for XTs, saddle for WTB, and tires for Conti Cross Country/Navigator combo.
Bottom Line:
This bike feels like I'm cheating. Picking a line on moderately technical downhills is now an optional activity, not critical. Similar, but not to the same extent on climbs - obstacles rob some power so I still try to avoid 'em, but the rear wheel pops over them so easily I don't worry too much about hitting a few. Also, carrying so much more speed through the descents means carrying that much more up the next hill - on short climbs I'm more of a power climber than finesse climber on this bike.
This can't be making me a better rider, but DAMN! It's too much fun to worry about.
Not a big hit bike, but for cross country riding, it's major fun.
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