Our revolutionary low pivot, fully active inspired design utilizes an ultra-stiff motocross style swingarm and monster cartridge bearing pivots to ensure your new Loco-Moto is as maintenance free as it is stiff. The Loco-Moto has 4.25 - 4.75" of adjustable travel and rate as well as the option of using either an air or coil-over shock. Additional features include a universal disc brake mount standard, and a replaceable derailleur hanger.
Submitted by
Tris
a Weekend Warrior
from Orange County Date Reviewed: October 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Too many
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
mtbr
Strengths:
Handling, stiffness, overall feel
Weaknesses:
Bobs a little, could use a lockout.
Similar Products Used:
Manitou fs, DBR V-10
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z-4 flylight, King Hubs and HeadsetMavic 517 Wheels, Sram 9.0sl shifters and rear derailer, XTR brakes, Easton Carbon bar, seatpoast, stem.
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks! It's the best combo of cross country and freride. It handles like it's on rails, climbs well and feels great. A great all-mountain bike (and light too!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tony
a Cross Country Rider
from san diego, ca Date Reviewed: April 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light. Clean lines. Simple design. Versatile. Inexpensive. Titus service.
Weaknesses:
Poor climber. Fragile? Not the stiffest.
Similar Products Used:
AMP B4; Trek Y22; Klein Mantra; Ellworth Truth
Bike Setup:
X Fly 100; Float RC; Hayes discs; Hugi 240/317; Tioga DH 2.3f/2.1r
Bottom Line:
I like the bike for it's versatility, but this bike really hits the middle of the road between freeride plush and racebike quickness. I wouldn't say it'd be a great freeride bike or a great racebike, but depending on parts, you could use it for either in a pinch. I've built it up as a "trailbike" which suits me well; it's good for all day epics. I've had bikes that have climbed or descended better, but this one does both reasonably well. I got mine used (so who knows what kind of abuse it saw before I put my licks in), but the top tube developed a crack 3/4 of the way around; pretty scary. Titus was good enough to sell me a new '02 front triangle for cost, which I thought was extremely nice; hopefully this one lasts a bit longer. Overall, I give it a thumbs up and would buy another. It's a great value and serves up about 80% of the performance of a fully active ride. If you're a hucker or leg-shaving racer, get a dedicated ride. For those out there who are looking for a great trail bike, look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerry Meyers
a Cross Country Rider
from Shilo, MB Date Reviewed: October 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ganaraska "E"
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Speedgoat
Strengths:
Strong, reliable, handling, climbing, descending
Weaknesses:
could be lighter like the 2001 bobs a bit, but I only realized it when I watched the rear shock while riding (don't try this at home folks)
This is a true do it all bike. I've been on a wide variety of terrain on this bike in the past year and never wished that I was on somthing else. My setup might be a little heavy if you race but it makes an excellent trailbike. It makes it up tight and steep switchbacks as well or better than my Kona but descends better. I also feel that the 2002 psylo SL is perfect on this bike because of the U-Turn feature. You can adjust the height of the front end by 45 mm and change the head angle by 2 degrees. Very usefulwhen the going gets steep in either direction. I would like to try a Swithblade for a plusher rear end but for the price the LM is great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Collins, CO, USA Date Reviewed: October 13, 2001
This is a great bike. It is a fine example of how to get light weight, pivot simplicity, quick and balanced cornering, stiff tracking, confident climbing, and plush descending out of a bike. Overall, I would put this into the trail bike category. You could race it well but it wouldn't be as efficient as the Racer-X.
The Loco Moto is perfect for the hard-core cross country type looking to add bigger drops, bigger air, faster downhilling, and increased big ride comfort. I have my suspension on the 4.75" setting and will only reduce it if I have extended steep uphills on the road.
My complaints are trivial to what this bike offers. It would be nice to have the option of fitting a 2.3 in the back but overall, the 2.1 suits it well. I run the Tioga 2.1 DH because it's almost as big as you can get in the rear and the tread pattern works well in the conditions I ride. I also thought the fit kit grossly under estimated my body size resulting in a much shorter stem and lower suggested seat height setting than what really works the best for me. I'm 5'10" and weigh 155 lbs, ride the small frame (perfect fit), and would not go shorter than a 120mm stem for climbing reasons. This could be a matter of riding style. Also, the derailier hanger is softer than other hangers I've had in the past. I typically bend it right back while it's still on the bike. I guess it's doing its job by protecting my sweet blue anodized frame.
My trail rides consist mostly of tight single-track, loose rock and sand, hard-pack, fixed rock obstacles, 40% climbing/40% descending/20% flat. With dirt roads or paved roads in between, they can last up to 7 hours. It's the perfect enduro bike for rough country.
Buy one from your local shop or from Titus. I've heard the mail order bikes often need extra attention to bolt tensions and other details.
Long live long rides at high altitude!
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Submitted by
Clint B
a Weekend Warrior
from Tyrone, GA Date Reviewed: July 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Laurel Mtn, NC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Wheatridge Cyclery
Strengths:
Craftmanship, customer support, handling
Weaknesses:
My only complaint is the der hanger. I've gone through three so far. Better the hanger than the swingarm.
When I first built this bike I ws more into cross country. Now my taste has expanded to free-ride. The bike first weighed in around 25 lbs. It was great for racing. Then after disc brakes, heavy tires it is around 28. I really can't appreciate the difference. There is virtually no bob in the suspension. The only suspension related sensation I get is from the new Marzocci Z5 100mm fork when I peddle out of the saddle. The frame is strong and simple. It descends well whether in the 4 or 4.75 mode. It tracks straight without chatter when braking hard. With a short stem (55mm) it handles quick enough for dual slolom. The biggest drop thus far is four feet, no problem. I can't seem to find a fault with this bike, nor can I find anything it can't do. Although I don't have a world of experience with an assortment of bikes this Titus Loco Moto seem to be most capable. I depend highly on Mtb Review for real life information. After 18 months of trials, I can highly recommend this bike without reservation.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sunshine
a Cross Country Rider
from Gay Bay, Ca Date Reviewed: July 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Over the Edge Sports
Strengths:
The more you ask from it, the more it gives you. Strong! Handles everything!
Weaknesses:
Some say the weight, I say perfomance outweighs it. Ha!
Bike Setup:
Z-2 XFly, Raceface stem/crankset/BB, Chris King Threadless, Thompson Elite, Mavic Crossmax UST wheels
Bottom Line:
Great Bike! Couldn't ask for more, I never drool over other peoples bikes anymore cuz this one does it all so well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R. Cordova
a Weekend Warrior
from Chandler, AZ Date Reviewed: June 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Shnebly Hill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
http://www.kalomtb.com/
Strengths:
This is a great bike, even for a 225lb rock crusher like myself. It has a beautiful amount of travel.
Weaknesses:
I have not found any.
Similar Products Used:
I demoed a few specialized bikes, and a san adreas.
Bike Setup:
XTR rear, XT everywhere else
Bottom Line:
Most everybody has good things to say about this bike, so I won't repeat. However, I went to the shop in Tempe where they build this bike. It is a small fiendly place, and they were very friendly and open to all my stupid questions. I got a nice demo of their process, it sounds like they are doing things the right way. For me it is great to know who built my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a
from Heber,UT Date Reviewed: May 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
PattersonCraft.com
Strengths:
Weight,rigidity,Allen at Titus, and Not everyone is riding one.
This is actually for the 2001 but the link didn't work for the it. I love this bike. I only thought that it was a nice bike after the first two short rides. Then I rode Porcupine Rim. Man what a difference it made in my riding. I climbed better than on my hardtail because the rear suspension could absorb some of the steps that you have to go up. I was able to decend much faster and more cofortable. I was able to clean stuff that I did'nt think that I would ever be able to do. This bike builds confidence and it great. I am 100% satisfied with it. Alan at Titus helped me get the fit dead on and he was great. Darryl at Pattersoncraft.com was great to work with. Don't buy a titus until you talk to him (pattersoncraft@aol.com)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike P.
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: May 21, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Hammerheadbikes.com
Strengths:
Light weight Adjustable geometry Color (blue) Ride/ feel It's a Titus (nuff' said!!)
This bike rocks. I have my medium built up to 26 pounds and that's with some LX and Deore components. It rides like a Racer-X with more travel. The bike soaks up big hits like nothing I've ridden before. A trailbike should not be this plush and this fast!!! On my first ride I got caught out on a tight, rocky technical trail at night with no lights, I couldn't see a thing!! The Loco-Moto just soaked up everything that I couldn't see. It literally saved my butt several times. If I had been on my old Sugar I'd have been toast for sure. It carves tight technical corners as if it's on rails. It has an Extremely stiff rear end. Plus Titus is by far the BEST company on the planet. The frames are made in-house in Arizona and the customer service is a 15 on a 1-10 scale. Thanks to Charles at Hammerheadbikes.com for spending a lot of time making sure I have the right frame size and components for my style/type of riding. He definately goes that extra mile. If you're in the market for a quality bike give him a ring, you won't be disappointed. Oh yea, GO GEAT A LOCO-MOTO!!! It's definately THE ultimate do-all trail bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Puzman
a Cross Country Rider
from Wallingford, CT Date Reviewed: April 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
still looking for it
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
hammerhead bikes
Strengths:
light weight stiff plenty of standover geometry dialed for singletrack plush, adjustable suspension ano finish looks bada$$
I was looking for a do-it-all trailbike to replace my 3 year old Mantra. While I liked the seated plushness and climbing ability of the Mantra, I wasn't psyched about the suspension quirks. I seriously considered a Fisher Sugar, but for the trails around here (endless rock gardens, roots, mud, tight switchbacks, etc), I felt like I needed more travel and perhaps quicker geometry.
The Loco seems to fit the bill perfectly. Its handling is very quick, even with a 100mm fork (more so than the Mantra w/ the same fork), but feels more stable at speed or down steep dropoffs than the Mantra did. Suspension action is much less noticeable than the Mantra- saddle height and wheelbase don't change and there is no brake-jack. There's no noticeable bobbing while seated, and seated climbing is amazing- great rear wheel traction (I'm sure that the Alligators help!). I feel that it climbs technical stuff as well as the Mantra, and that's saying alot. When you stand and sprint, bobbing is more noticeable. The rear end is very stiff, and the bike tracks through turns really well. As built, the bike weighs 26 lbs, and I figure will be ~25 lbs with Pythons and lightweight tubes. By the way, I'm 5'9" with a 31" inseam, and I'm riding the Medium with a 100mm stem. Fits great.
In sum, I think this could be close to the ultimate New England woods bike. If you want something to race on, take a serious look at the Sugar. If you want a something with plenty of travel that is light, low maintenance, and quick handling, take a serious look at the Loco. Give Charles Coker at Hammerhead bikes a call- he's a great guy to work with and will give you a great deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
spunky
a Cross Country Rider
from oregon Date Reviewed: April 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
long, steep and dry
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Strengths:
simple, smooth, effective, and adjustable rear suspension. light. unique looks. stiff. tracks straight and effortlessly. great value.
fox float r rear shock, sid 100 fork, king headset, thompson stem and post, monkeylite bars, avid mag brakes & levers, bontrager racelite wheelset, hutchinson python air lite tires w/greenlite tubes, xtr ti cassette, sram 9.0sl shifters and rear der, xtr front der, real ultimate ti bb, ionic billy cranks, race face chainrings, speedplay frog ti pedals, sdg saddle, a bunch of ti & aluminum bolts.
Bottom Line:
titus has really done a great job with this frame. i bought a 2001 model and they have dropped about 1/4 pound from the 2000 frames by using a double-butted tubeset, anodizing and an extruded rear triangle. the rear triangle is also anodized, which looks pretty sweet. as others have posted, the rear suspension is simple and incredibly smooth. the single pivots rides on cartridge bearings making for a quiet and amazingly smooth ride. i wanted to buy the rear shock with lock-out, but the titus guys advised strongly against it for a few reasons - the fox rc has more stiction, it weights more (about 2 oz) and their design doesn't require it. after riding the bike, i strongly agree. the frame came with the rear shock set at 4.5" of travel and after experimenting i think it's the optimum position. now i see why - the rear end design doesn't really require a lock-out, especially when the travel is set at 4.5".
overall, the impression that i get everytime i ride this bike is how smooth it is and how well it works. no noise, effortless suspension - in fact you don't realize how well the rear travel functions until you see how far the shock has compressed. i also like the way the design keeps the chain length even. i rode a santa cruz superlite for a while and the higher shock position increases the length of the chain when the suspension is engaged, causing the rear end to pull back. kind of annoying. i also rode a tracer for a while, which to be honest is really a different type of bike. a great ride, but the frame is a lot heavier and is probably more of a true all terrain free-rider.
as far as the bad news, it's really kind of minor. the clearance between the swing arm and the seat tube is pretty close. i went for a muddy ride and gunk would fly into the gap causing some gritty, grinding sounds. a quick wash takes care of it, but i hadn't experienced anything quite like that before. also, as someone pointed out in a previous review, the rear brake brace is pretty close to the tire, if you run a fattie. you can invert the brace and get a bit more clearance, but if you always ride in mudbog style conditions, it might not be the frame for you. titus also state that brakes like the avid arch style brakes should not be used on the frame. important info if you've already forked over the big bucks for some ultimate arches and want to use them on this frame.
titus lists the frame weight at 5 lbs. for a small. my titus weighs in at just under 23 lbs. (i ride a small frame) which makes it a killer climber and easy to maneuver. with the sweet rear end, it does a great job on steep descents as well. i ordered a '01 sid sl which i'll put on this month. for my style of riding and my small size (130 lbs.) the sid 100 is a bit of overkill.
so in case you couldn't tell, i love this frame. a great value compared to the competition (you can buy a comparable superlite for about the same price and a tracer runs $1650 for the frame only).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RK
a Cross Country Rider
from PENNSYLVANIA Date Reviewed: March 31, 2001
THIS BIKE DOES EVERYTHING WELL.HAVING RACED MX I KEEP IT IN LONG TRAVEL MODE.THE SUSPENSION IS ALMOST AS ACTIVE AND NEUTRAL AS A HORST LINK BIKE.THE FRAME IS SUPER STIFF.STEP ON THE PEDALS AND IT JUST SQUIRTS AHEAD.0 LOSS OF ENERGY.HANDLES QUICK AND PRECISE IN THE TIGHT STUFF AND IS STABLE ON THE FAST STUFF.THIS IS A VERY WELL BALANCED CHASSIS.I THINK PART OF THIS HAS TO DO WITH THE SHOCK BEING MOUNTED IN THE CENTER OF THE BIKE.AS FAR AS WEIGHT MINE BUILT UP AT 24 AND A HALF POUNDS.THAT IS WITH SOME LIGHT WEIGHT PARTS.THIS IS A DECENT XC RACING WEIGHT.THE 01 FRAME IS CONSIDERABLY LIGHTER.THE BUILD QUALITY IS EXTREMELY HIGH.ALLEN AND ALL THE PEOPLE ARE INCREDIBLY NICE AND HELPFUL.IF YOUR IN TO XC RIDING AND RACING AND LIKE A 4-5 INCH TRAVEL BIKE WITH GREAT BUILD QUALITY AND HANDLING TRAITS YOU CAN NOT GO WRONG.ESPECIALLY AT THE PRICE.A LOT OF BIKE FOR THE MONEY.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jules
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland Date Reviewed: March 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Whakarewarewa Forest, Rotorua
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Speedgoat (frame only)
Strengths:
Lightweight, beautifully constructed, decent amount of travel.
Weaknesses:
It's $2450 in NZ$ which is a lot for frame and shock only. Mind you, that is more the fault of a very weak New Zealand currency. You get what you pay for! The rear seat stay brace above brake posts sits only 5mm away from tread if you have a 2.3inch tire.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Joshua Y, couple of hardtails
Bike Setup:
small frame with Fox Float R rear, Rock Shox Psylo XC, Hayes Hydraulic Discs, Wheeler disc hubs, Mavic x223 disc rims, XT components, Ritchey seat, post, stem, bar, Shimano 636 pedals.
Bottom Line:
I bought the new 2001 frame which is about 5pounds weight. Don't know what total weight is - maybe about 28-29. But who the hell cares! This is a fantastic frame, very well designed! It's low maintenance, with only 1 main pivot to worry about and the rear shock is tucked in centre of frame away from the worst mud collecting areas. One thing I would say about the air shock is you need to make sure you have just the right pressure; if it's not quite enough it will bottom out with a large 'clunk' during big hits. I thought it was the frame first time it happened half expecting to find a dent in the frame! I am only 6 rides new on this bike so will be looking forward to posting again after 6months of careering down some more hills... Titus makes some very classy frames. Good enough to hang on your wall with a big fat, gold frame around it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gareth d
a Cross Country Rider
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: February 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all of em
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
off mtbr marketplace
Strengths:
strong, lightish, loads of standover height, decent rear travel options, quality build, one pivot simplicity, active.
Weaknesses:
no routing for rear disc, my ankles hit the hefty square section rear triangle (gets very painful) lack of rear tyre clearance.
Bike Setup:
z1cr 5inch, float rear shock, hope discs F&R on hope Tiglide hubs, aeroheat rims, king HS, XT,thomson & titec bits.
Bottom Line:
i took the bike unridden to Oz and downhilled it at thredbo, not exactly what it was designed for but it felt great straight off the bat. For a bike with almost 5 inches of rear travel it could use a little more clearance, but i'm running a 2.25 kujo at the moment on the rear and its OK. with its current longish travel disc build its over 28lbs, but climbs very well indeed. downhill its plush and handles well. i've started doing a few jumps and its holding up. this bike is perfect for my riding style,mainly XC but tending towards technical rocky descents and drops, if i can find them, which is why i bought it. you could build it up as a lighterweight 4 inch travel XC bike and it would be great too, but i cant see anyone racing it, really, although its a lighter frame for 2001. a great trail bike that i could unreservedly recommend, but all this five chilli stuff that i see is nonsense. no bikes perfect, thats why they change the design so often. if you've read this you'll know i think this is a fine bike, great work Titus, if you just go on the ratings you're a mug and will end up with a raven or something.
sooo..........
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dwyane
a Weekend Warrior
from Pickering, Ont.., Can. Date Reviewed: January 15, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great frame that handles great and makes me a better rider.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Offroad Profles 954
Bike Setup:
98 XT, Sun Rhino lite rims, white industry 36 spoke hubs,Easton bar and Bontrager Stem post and seat
Bottom Line:
This an update to my prior review. Stopped riding when the snow came in end of November. The bike is fantastic. The handling is quick but not twitchy and the ride is great. This the best bike I have every riden. I feel it makes me a better rider and has brought my confidence level up. It is stable when it needs to be, responsive when it has to be and the suspension is great. You can't tell it is even working even though my ride buddy tellls me it is working all the time. Another great trade off is that my rides are so much quiter. Didi some night rides and the suspension has made me almost silent. If anybody, big or small needes to find a true all round easy to mintain bike I would suggest that they take a good hard look at a Titus Loco Moto. Another great benefit the service from titius is great aswell.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tammy
a Racer
from Wake Forest, NC, USA Date Reviewed: December 19, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Direct from Titus
Strengths:
Outstanding handling and maneuverability for a smaller rider. Plush ride.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar, Psycle Werks Wild Hare
Bike Setup:
My bike weighs around 26 pounds built up (which is not too shabby for a F/S), and that's with Grimeca disk brakes and hubs, XTR, Syncros cranks and post, Titec bar, Nukeproof stem, Terry Butterfly saddle, Rockshox SID XL triple-clamp air fork, Fox air rear shock, Speedplay pedals (see below), and big fat heavy 2.1 Kevlar tires (I figure if I can lift it onto the roof rack without help, it's light enough!)
Bottom Line:
The guys and gals at Titus are known for their incredible ability to manufacture framesets specifically designed to fit female riders under 5'4"; now, due to popular demand, they have come out with a tiny long-travel bike. The Loco-Moto is adjustable from 3.5" to 4.75" of plush travel, and is available in sizes all the way down to X-small for riders even shorter than 5 feet. I personally am 5'2", and absolutely love the way this bike handles. The geometry is similar to my Racer-X, which means the bike is very quick in the tight stuff, so I don't have to rely on pure strength to wrestle it around turns, something I've always had to do with other bikes. And frankly (don't get upset ladies, this is a generalized statement, but one that I believe to be true for the most part), most (MOST) women simply are not as strong as most men, so a quicker handling bike, although a bit scary at first, is ultimately one of the keys of more enjoyable riding. The Loco-Moto is able to walk that fine line between being quick and being twitchy, though. I have no trouble maneuvering this bike through the tightest east coast singletrack, yet never have to worry about over-steer with it. With its smaller size, I also feel like the bike and I work together, and I'm much better able to use body English. This became very apparent the other week when I (yes, I, the biggest chicken on two wheels) actually rode my Loco-Moto on a teeter-totter. The lovely handling of the bike really showed itself when I got too close to the edge of the see-saw nearing the apex (about 4 feet in the air), and had to very carefully shift the bike back to center using only my weight in order to ride down. This took virtually what felt like no effort at all on my part, and felt very natural on the Loco-Moto, something I can't say about any other brand of bike I've ridden. Despite all its above listed qualities, though, the most surprising thing to me is the fact that this is the least expensive bike I own, and I have to admit, it's the one I love to ride the most. If you're a female rider and haven't tried a Titus frame yet, I strongly suggest you do. I've tried the other "female specific" frames out there, and I have yet to find one that handles and fits like a glove the way this one does. Most so-called women's frames I find have top tubes that are way too short (in their defense, though, I do have a rather long torso and shorter legs), and make me feel like I'm hanging way out over the front tire. The Loco-Moto feels very comfortable for me, and the cockpit puts me in a very natural position - climbing this bike is surprisingly easy despite the long travel, and finding the balance point for seated or standing climbing is instinctive. Everything on the bike feels very cohesive and infinitely maneuverable; riding seems like the most natural thing in the world on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Gilbert, Arizona Date Reviewed: December 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sedona, Arizona
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Strengths:
This bike is a solid rock. There is no frame flex and handles great. I am just a weekend warrior and everything that I have thrown at it, it has handled without any problems. If you are in the market for a full suspension bike and want something that will out last yourself, then you need to take a good look at the Titus Loco Moto. In a word, this bike ROCKS!!!!
Weaknesses:
Price, but then again, you get what you paid for. I could have easily spent less money on other bikes, but none could compare to how solid this bike feels.
Similar Products Used:
I look at many bikes before I bought this one. I used this site to help me with my decision, I looked at many bikes and rode a few of them. When it came down to it, the top 2 were the Titus and the Specialized FSR XC Pro and to me, the FSR was flexy and just did not give me that warm fuzzy feeling of being as solid built as the Titus.
Bike Setup:
I started with the components that I wanted, XR. I got a XTR front derailer at no extra charge because they did not have any XR in stock. Race face headset, FOX air shock and Judy XC set to 100mm in the front. Say what you want about the fork, but I did not have the money to change it out. I figured that it was easier to get the components that I wanted up front and change out the fork if needed later.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line for me, buy this bike. If the price scares you, then save up more before buying. My opinion made be biasis as I own one, but my friends are jealous of my new bike. It is solid, handles great and may be the last bike you ever buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mad Aussie
a Racer
from Arizona Date Reviewed: November 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
adjustability, stiffness, handling
Bike Setup:
z2 atom 80, king, race face, easton etc
Bottom Line:
I traded the SID for an Z2 and have gained a pound, but the suspension performance more than makes up for it. The bike has given me no trouble, I have crashed it repeatedly and it is still in great shape. Still great value for money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dwyane
a Weekend Warrior
from Pickering Date Reviewed: September 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$950.00
Strengths:
Simple design that works very close to the more expensive bikes from Titus. It is very stiff and it can handle my extremely large body and not seem like a wet noodle.
Weaknesses:
No as of yet have had only for a few weeks
Similar Products Used:
Offroad Proflex 954 and the rest of bikes have been steel hardtails
Bike Setup:
All parts from 1998 Norco Rampage, XT Shifers, derailluers, white industry 36 spoke hubs, Rhino lite rims, Easton Monkey bar Bontrager Seat, Stem and post and with big IRC Backcountry tires
Bottom Line:
I have been mountain biking for over 12 years now off and on. When I was riding 4 times a week i weighed 300lbs all I would ride was Canadian Steel hardtails. I have 6 in my cycling life from all the major companies. This is my second dualie and this thing is unreal. As you guess I am not your average sized person (6'2" and 340lbs+) and the Titus and afew other bikes where the only ones that could handle my weight, ratio wise not structure wise. I looked at Turners, great bikes but way to expensive because he would have to build me a true custom frame out of dh material. I looked at Tomac's and adain they where steep in price even though they did offer a good price. I looked at Intense, could handle handle my weight and I looked at Santa Cruz, Bullit strong enough but with to much travel. The guys at titus where very helpful and explained to me that their bikes could handle the weight, as well if i wanted a special build it would not cost a arm and a leg. I bought the Loco Moto and it is fantastic. It is stiff and can handle my weight, no problem. I seem to be rambling but this is for all big men out there who want to full suspension. The Loco moto is the way to go. it is stiff and strong and the custome service is great. I am at the opposite end of the spectrum from Stacy and this bike fits me perfectly. This things is great and handle like a dream.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stacy
a Cross Country Rider
from Arizona Date Reviewed: September 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plushness, handling, geometry, stand over clearance
Weaknesses:
hit pedals and chainrings more than on hardtail.
Similar Products Used:
Had a Trek 8000wsd, cant compare.
Bike Setup:
Extra small frame. SID XC, ESP 9.0sl, avid, easton.
Bottom Line:
This bike has given me a lot more confidence in riding technical sections. The back end stays glued to the ground going up and coming down. It has saved me from endoing several times. I like the fact that I have lots of stand over clearance. At 5'2" the bike fits me perfectly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fred clark
a Weekend Warrior
from Saco, Me. Date Reviewed: September 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Extra Legere
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
hammerheadbikes.com
Strengths:
Solid, does everything well as far as I can tell, extremely well built. Great folks to do business with. Handles just about anything with ease(more than I can throw at it)
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized "98 Rockhopper FS(steel) with Marzocchi Z4.
With less than a week in the saddle and only two years riding dirt I'm by no means qualified to do this review justice, but so far this bike is everything Titus said it would be and more. It is a thing of beauty to look at and handles superbly. It's only limitations is me. I'll post another review at the end of our riding season. A better "do it all full suspension ride" may not exist.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mackeral
a Weekend Warrior
from Tujunga CA USA Date Reviewed: August 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Pines
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$719.00
Purchased At:
SuperBlo
Strengths:
Made in USA Great price Excellent construction Low maintenance Reasonable weight Plush suspension Excellent handling LOTS of standover
Weaknesses:
Bobs a little
Similar Products Used:
KHS FXT Team
Bike Setup:
XTR/XT, Judy Hydracoil SL, Fox Float R, XTR V brakes, FSA Xtreme headset,Cheap seatpost, Cheap stem, Cheap riser bars,Mavic/Bontrager rims/Enduroraptors
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. After a few break in rides, the suspension has become plush, very stable bike, great on rocky singletrack, inspires confidence. I built up my bike with the components from my old KHS. Because of the cheap, but strong bars, etc. its not as light as some, but, it is strong enough to handle my 200 plus pounds. I wanted low maintenance and with the single sealed pivot I won't have to do much to the frame as far as maintenance. Im giving it 5 flamin piles because I got a killer deal on the frame and fork and 4 overall just because nothing is perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Red Bull
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle Date Reviewed: August 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Devil's Gulch/Porcepine Rim
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Speedgoat
Strengths:
Monsterous single pivot, no rear end flex, climbs better than my Klein Adroit, quick but stable handling, amazing downhill performance, very ample stand-over clearance,...why didn't I do this sooner ?? I am 6'4", 225lb on a good day. This bike in the large size is perfect for large lads who would normally overstress 4-bar linkage designs.
Rarely in life do you get complete satisfaction from a major purchase. The Titus LocoMoto is an exception. The bike as set-up completely satisfies my mtn biking expectations and is rapidly exceeding them. The folks at Titus were very helpful and their technical expertise was impressive. The folks at Speedgoat provided me the best customer service and support experience on a highly variable and technical purchase that I have ever had. This year's trip to Moab will be a turning point in my cycling experiences due to both of their efforts. I can't thank them enough. Thanks again Bill at the Goat and Chris at Titus.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MAD AUSSIE
a
from TEMPE, AZ Date Reviewed: August 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
LITTLE BEAR (FLAGSTAFF)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1150.00
Purchased At:
RAGE CYCLES
Strengths:
Strong, plush, laterally rigid and active suspension design. Stable handling. Best customer service in the industry.
Weaknesses:
Not quite as active under braking as "horst link" designs.
Similar Products Used:
tested Intense Tracer, GT i drive, Cannondale Jekyll, FSR.
Bike Setup:
Small polished frame with float RC. SID SL fork, Chris King, Mavic, Thompson, Race Face, Easton CT2 monkeylite, SRAM esp 9.0sl.
Bottom Line:
My small polished frame came in at 5.7 Lb, exactly as advertised. Entire bike weighs under 25lb. Maybe the new batch of frames has lighter tubing? Bike handles great, bombs rocky sections with authority. I intend to race expert class x-c next year. The frame is overbuilt, but for a bike intended for D/S or taking a double crown fork it is not overly heavy. If you are worried about an extra pound of frame weight try cutting back on the Dorritos and lose a pound yourself!!! It is so good my wife bought one too!!! See ya.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Robinson
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin Date Reviewed: August 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Kens trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Massivly overbuilt, plush to firm shock settings, single "beer can" sized pivot, Titus quality
Weaknesses:
Weight....
Similar Products Used:
Heckler
Bike Setup:
Medium polished frame, Fox vanilla air, Z1 Xfly, all XTR
Bottom Line:
I've been riding the Loco for 6 months now and I have a pretty good idea about how it works. Highlights have been almost every trail in Austin, Porcupine Rim and the White Rim in Moab and the San Juan trail in Orange County. I've done high speed downhills and 4+" drops. The Loco is extremely stable and predictable which I really appreciate. Not the least bit twitchy even at speed. In tight singletrack it performs pretty well. Not as nimble as other bikes I've ridden but it's so darn consistent that I've adjusted my riding style to accomodate.
The adjustable shock settings really work. The 4" setting is firm enough to race sport class X-country. The 4.75 setting is very plush although it takes full dampening on the fox airshock to really keep things in check. Would like to try a Fox RC on it some day... I have yet to touch the pivot or anything else frame related. This bike is bullet-proof.
Setting up the front deraileur is a pain in the arse since you need to fully compress the shock (assume you need to remove a coil shock) but besides that it's been maintenance free. Having previosly ridden a Marble Peak I can say that the Loco feels very much like a 4 bar suspension bike. Can't say that I notice any stiffening under braking or granny.
I got the bike from Charles Coker at Hammerhead bikes and he got me a great deal. Suggest you give him a call if you're interested.
Jim R
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Titus
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: July 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
The biggest strongest single pivot bolt i have ever seen on a bike. it was fun to ride and the price was pretty good( only 1699 complet bike with XT at supergo). This is goign to be my next bike.
Similar Products Used:
friend's k2 3000 Aeon isis
Bike Setup:
XT with crosslink and Z something shock.
Bottom Line:
This is a fun bike but it bob a little maybe there is not enough air in the shock, but even though it bob it still accelerate like a hard tail. I also like the beefy frame it looks so kool. If you are shoping for a bike ride the Titus Loco Moto before making you final decision.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brother Numb
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Altos,CA,USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Low center of gravity, strongest single pivot joint i have seen
Weaknesses:
As assembled Titus shipped the V-bar brace mounted backwards. I dont use V-brakes so i took it off LAF
Similar Products Used:
Superlight, Heckler, Tomac 78 Special, Foes FXC, San Andreas, Sugar
quality build, no rear end waggle like heckler, plush travel, accelerates extremely well
Weaknesses:
NONE, maybe the stickers, chain slap
Similar Products Used:
Proflexy, Longtime spent in researching bikes. GT cancelled that order, Heckler, Any new Full XC bike. Though about the GAINT but rode a cracked frame at the bike show, POS!.
Bike Setup:
Mars 1 (black and yellow), black frame, all XT groupo, Yellow and black panaracers
Bottom Line:
Went on one ride this weekend at Aliso Woods, absolutely bombed the rocky sections with point and shoot accuracy. Friend is riding a FSR xc and wants the Loco Moto custom really BAD. Supergo in Fountain Valley did great work on getting the bike done and built in one day. Thanks Chris. This is a great ride for the do it all person looking for the full mountain ride. Give ya more in a week....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brother
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Altos, CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 27, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Smooth 4.75 travel, NO bobbing, very light, HIGH quality welds, MASSive pivot bearings, Xcellent geometry for shorter people
Weaknesses:
Could be lighter
Similar Products Used:
SC Superlight X, Fisher Sugar 3, SC Heckler X, Titus Racer X
Bike Setup:
Race face BB/crank, Hope 02XC, Sram 9,0SL, XTR f. derailer, marzocchi z.1 xfly, kore elite stem/pedals/rims, CK headset
Bottom Line:
This bike is a "Heckler-Killer", my buddy with HecklerX said this after riding. Superlight(days/new)friend is 'very' bitter he didnt do his homework.
Titus is an excellent company I called and spoke with Alan=very WISE(he offered to reseach the geometrys of my stolen bike (Homegrown) for a custom RacerX).
Went rode the RacerX Kalo Bikes rules.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jed
a
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: May 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Eagle Lakes, Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Simple Single Pivot, Stiff rear triangle, Adjustable travel, Great Looks, Good Customer Service
Weaknesses:
Heavier than anticipated (they say a small frame polished is 5.8lbs, my Med with paint was 6.45)
Similar Products Used:
Ridden/tested most of the FS bikes out there, owned a Kona MokoMoko until I got this bike.
The frame is beautiful (other than a bit of orange peel in the paint behind the seattube, but I'm being darn picky to mention that) and built up easily. The welds and workmanship are first rate.
I was a bit bummed by the weight being more than advertised (why must every manufacturer do this??). However the first time I rode it, I didn't care anymore. It is much more active of a suspension than other single pivot bikes I've ridden - not quite 4-bar linkage active, but darn close. There is very little pedal induced suspension action, in fact I've left it in the Plush/4.75 shock setting cuz it climbs so well.
The suspension balances well with the 105mm travel Manitou (and the red fork matches the red frame very well). The bike works well over small and medium bumps, and soaks up big hits nicely. It felt very natural from the beginning and gave me immediate confidence in it. The suspension does seem to stiffen under hard braking, but Titus told me to increase shock air pressure and decrease the damping and that seems to have helped. The only problem I have had is that I overtorqued the bolt on the replaceable der. hanger and managed to strip it out, which caused the rear wheel to move around. A call to Titus and they sent me out a new hanger no charge - excellent servie there!
I do highly recomend this bike - I am going to have al ot of fun on it this summer. Overall, I'm giving it 4 chilis - if they could get the frame weight below 6lbs, it would be 5 . . .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stanimal
a Cross Country Rider
from salt lake city Date Reviewed: May 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything unpaved
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Versatile. Plush. Simplicity. Climbs like a goat in heat. Descends with aplomb. Pleasing to the eye.
Weaknesses:
No excuses for going slow up or down... Envious friends.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Diamondback XR-8, KHS FXT, Jamis Dakar Pro
Bike Setup:
Bontrager Valiant rims, XTR hubs,XTR rear cassette, IRC Mythos 2.1 tires, SRAM 9.0 SL Half-Pipe shifters, SRAM 9.0SL rear der., XT front der., Easton Monkeylite bars, Mars CL, Icon Graphite stem and seatpost, LX cranks and chainrings, WTB Stealth pedals, Flite ti seat, Avid 25 brakes, SRAM 9.0 levers
Bottom Line:
The true "do-it-all" bike. Reasonably light and nimble for a FS with 4.75" of travel. Although plush,the Loco-Moto is very responsive. In the "FIRM" (4.0") setting the rear end is ready to race XC. The Titus workmanship is impeccable. For the price there's nothing that compares...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck Dendy
a Weekend Warrior
from Ashland, VA Date Reviewed: May 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
PoorFarm Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
It's built by Titus, plush ride, turns quick in single track, plenty of stand-over for shorter people
Weaknesses:
A little heaveir that listed on their website. The small frame weighted 6.2lbs instead of 5.8 but that's no big deal.
Similar Products Used:
owned DBR X-2, test rode the Titus RacerX
Bike Setup:
2000 SID XC, Fox Air Float RC, RF Next LP cranks w/Action Tec TI BB, Avid Mag Brakes and Levers, XT front Derailleur, XTR rear derailleur, Thompson layback seatpost, CKing headset, CKing hubs w/Mavic X517 rims and Wheelsmith DB spokes, Panaracer Fire XC Pro aftermarket tires, Salsa skewers, Syncros Hardcore flat bars, Yeti lock-on grips, XT rapidfire shifters, Shimano M434 pedals, Still trying different saddles and stems
Bottom Line:
This bike is one sweet plush ride. I have never ridden a bike this light before so it's a whole different world from the DBR X-2 I used to ride, which weighed about 31lbs. I am still in awe after the second day of riding at how well the Loco Moto turns and accelerates in single-track seeing as it's a f/s bike. The switch-backs and tight trails I used to have to brake on know seem to be no problem at all. The whole setup is a respectable 25.4lbs with about 4.5" of rear travel. I could easily shed another pound if I change the Shimano M434 pedals that weigh well over a pound and go with carbon bars and Seatpost but I love my pedals and don't trust carbon products. In the end this is a very solid bike that can take anything I can throw at it. I would have bought the RacerX but the top tube was a little to close for comfort on the small frame and the xsmall would have been to cramped. So, if you have a short inseam and need a lower top tube than is typically found on F/S bikes you should look at this frame. Titus, my future family thanks you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed Lombardi
a Weekend Warrior
from N. Chelmsford Date Reviewed: April 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Build, plush travel, stiff
Weaknesses:
Rear Tire clearence
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my last post, I've put a lot more time in on the bike and I'm still really impressed. I've switched a few parts around and dropped the weight down to around 26 pounds. The tire clearence around the rear of the frame is a little tight and always gets cought up with muck. I've been able to ride trails with drop offs that in the past I only looked at. Over all great bike! I'm going to rate it higher now that I've spent more time on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed
a Weekend Warrior
from North Chelmsford, MA, USA Date Reviewed: February 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Stiff frame, adjustable travel, quality build
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler, Specialized FSRxc,
Bike Setup:
Z-1CR, All Race Face, SRAM, XTR, Sunn/Ringle wheels, Fox Float R.
Bottom Line:
I'm very impressed with how active the suspension is for a single pivot bike. Adjustable shock mounts actually make a differance allowing anywhere from 4-4.75 inches of rear wheel travel. Titus is pushing this frame as a xc race bike. It's not. Mine, with all the goodies weighs in around 27lbs. The bike is the best trail bike I've ridden. I test rode the Intence Tracer before riding this bike and the Titus blew me away. It's supper plush, light enough to be a great woods bike and it's stiff as hell. Anyone looking for a low maitenece do all bike that could be raced if push came to shove should check the Loco Moto out. It's a great deal for a custom high end frame. I paid around $995 for the frame and upgraded Float R shock. I'm thinking of picking up a coil Fox shock and running it in a few sport downhill events.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Howell
a Cross Country Rider
from Gardnerville, Nevada USA Date Reviewed: February 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
tahoe flume and pinenut mnts.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very well built, stiff, tough frame. Great climber and descender. Good fit and finish, clean welds
Weaknesses:
None as of yet
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Shimano XT drivedrain and brakes, Marzocchi Z1 CR fork, Fox Vanilla R coil shock, RaceFace low riser bars, and stem, Thomson seat post, WTM saddle, X517 rims w/xt hubs and 2.1 Panaracer tires
Bottom Line:
I am very pleased with this bike, and have put over 200 miles on it in just about 3.5 months. It came out heavier than expected (what I was told) but on the trail the weight is not noticed. I wanted a good all around trail bike that would suit my riding needs of long cross country rides with everything thrown in, and the seasonal cross country rides. When I put it together I thought(and expected) it's climbing ability to be compromised. I was pleasantly suprised. It climbs better than my hardtail. At times the front end can get light when the rear suddenly compresses on a short, steep ascent, but it doesnt pose a problem. I'm going to race it in the Kooka cup this year and will update my post after the season. Bottom Line: Titus has made a very good bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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