Submitted by
AC WYGD
a Weekend Warrior
from Phila Date Reviewed: May 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
wissahickon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
0
Strengths:
This is a follow up review, I am amazed at how well this bike climbs giving that it has a little over 5" in the rear & 5" up front, its technical ability going up is amazing, it's a little slower going up, but thats fine... i am in no hurry, just take my time & go up & over anything. Going down is even better,just an overall awesome bike
Ano. black frame,Fox 125RLC, Mavic317 hugi hubs, hayes discs, hollowtech cranks
Bottom Line:
This is a awesome bike, with this amount of travel, the bike weighs around 28lbs... not the lightest but i dont race, i ride for the fun of it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
WYGD
a Weekend Warrior
from Phila Date Reviewed: January 7, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Private
Strengths:
Everything,build quality- Very stiff traction is amazing the faster you go the better the bike feels. Flawless design
Weaknesses:
There are no weeknesses
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR [owned & loved], Santa Cruz, Turner[very nice!!], Giant ac [also very nice]
Bike Setup:
I have the long travel with a fox 125 RLC, sun rhino lite with xt disc, hayes disc,hollow tech cranks, king head set,med black ano frame
Bottom Line:
I got this frame,fork, & head set for a very good price. I was very close to getting a Blur but this was less $ than the blur frame. I went for the SB because i kinda new what I was getting [ coming from the FSR design] & NOT knowing about the hype of the blur - which im sure is great, but it is to new & to much money , not to be sure. I was concerned a little about the climbing ability of this bike cause of the amount of travel,, I was wrong, it does everything great. I feel i made a good choice
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Per
a
from Uppsala, Sweden Date Reviewed: October 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Lunsen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Speedgoat
Strengths:
Beautifully made, handles incredibly well.
Weaknesses:
Inherent in the design is that in mucky conditions dirt is squirted right on the rear shock as there is not much between it and the wheel. It would be the same on a Tracer or a Specialized. Coming straight from a hard tail I find there are a lot of nooks and corners which makes it an ordeal to clean the bike. However, this could also be said about any full suspension ride.
Similar Products Used:
Have tried Specialized SWorks FSR and Cannondale Jekyll.
Bike Setup:
Drivetrain full XTR, brakes XT-disc, seat Sella Flite, seat tube Thomson Elite, bar Easton CT2 flatbar, barends LP, headset and hubs King, rims Mavic 317, tires Panaracer Firewall XC, rear shock Vanilla Float RL, fork Marathon 100 mm.
Bottom Line:
In a semi-academic way we looked at lot of bikes. Had my heart set at an Ellsworth Truth first, but some of the reviews made me sceptical. Also under consideration were Santa Cruz Superlight, Intense Tracer, SWorks FSR, Seven Duo, Maverick, and Ventana. In the end it boilded down to that the Switchblade probably was the best ride for me.
We are not racing but ride trails. The Switchblade is the perfect trail bike. It is made for sustained riding on technical trails. Climbs like a goat. Steers through anything. The suspension makes any gnarly trail smooth and pleasant. The workmanship is almost like if it was piece of art. The first ride it felt like taking a Rolls Royce into muck. The lockout on the Fox shock turns the bike into a firm hardtail in a second. Though, it should be said, I harldy ever use it.
It was kind of scary to buy such costly bikes without seeing them much less trying them. Had a long correspondense with Chris and Beth at Speedgoat, who were very knowledgeable and helpful at every point, discussing measurments, parts etc, back and forth, and when the bikes finally arrived the fit was absolutely perfect.
With regard to parts I find the XT-discbrakes excellent. The Vanilla Float, set to 4.5”, is smooth as silk. The Marathon is excellent, light, plush and stiff, when it works. However, it has been leaking air for quite some time. Marzocchi is presently trying to help me sort it out.
The Switchblade is not a XC-race bike. It is a tad to heavy for that. Neither is it made for jumping off things. In a race it would be frustrating. Jumping it would probably break. There are better bikes for both purposes. But I really doubt there is a better trailbike around. It is at aggressive riding in tight technical singletrack and on epic rides the Switchblade really shines.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin
a Cross Country Rider
from Hebron Date Reviewed: September 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Case Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
123
Strengths:
Incredible bike. It makes technical hard terrain much easier and it is the same for downhill. Nothing is flimsy or cheap!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
98 KLein Mantra comp, 99 Klein mantra carbon (22.5lbs), Giant NRS, Specialized Enduro, Trek Y3, Jamis Dakkar
Bike Setup:
Black super air 125mm, King head set, XO rear derailler, Hope mini, A 3.1 King tubeless Continental Vert pro UST
Bottom Line:
It is an incredible bike as is. With Gore ride ons and the Hope mini there is is little to maintain except clean the chain and relube. The long travel is a must. The lock out mechanism on the Black super air does not work but The travel is great and smooth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trick Daddy
a Cross Country Rider
from Metro Georgia Date Reviewed: September 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mountain - Dalonegha
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Catrecay River Bike Shop
Strengths:
moving from hardtail to FS on this frame is effortless; welds and general looks are incredible; feels like the back of my hand; standover is awesome; workmanship is secdond to none; strength of rear is over and above; bad to the bone.
Weaknesses:
12 week wait - like fine wine; water botle screw threads came lose
Similar Products Used:
Truth, Tracer, YBB, FSR, Scalpel, other short / mid travel - nothing come close to the Switchblade
Bike Setup:
2003 Switchblade burnished frameset @ 4.5", Fox Forx RLC 100mm, King headset, EXP / Monkeylite bars, sweet Cane Creek barends, Avid 2.0L brake levers, Avid Mechanical Discs, Thomson stem and seatpost, Race Face Turbine cranks and BB, King ISO disc wheelset, ATAC Titan pedals, Salsa QR sweat clamp - 25.5 lbs
Bottom Line:
Moving from Georgia to Colorado and this is my wife's gift to me. I am a hardtail snbob finally moving to FS. This is the bombest bike ever for a reformed BMX freak / pseudo XC geek like me. Getting older and not caring so much about pulverizing cats, I needed a much cooler rig to see me through my post 30 days. This is it. I can still pound when I want and I can cruise when I want - best of all worlds I'd say. The frame this replcaed is a 1996 Avalanche LE aluminum hardtail - very respectable in its day but not nearly in the same league as the new FS Switchblade. I had a GShok 2.5" suspension seatpost on my GT and it performaed marvelously from day one, but it was nowhere near the performance of the FS Titus. The 4-bar Horst design is the only way to go if you want hartail performance from a medium travel trailbike. This bike is stiff as hell in all the right places.
When I picked it up from the shop, an owner of an Intense Uzzi SLX saw it and said how the rear stays on my Titus are BIGGER than on his SLX. We went out to his truck and confirmed suspicion. Incredible - my trailbike is beefier than his freeride / DH bike in the place that mattters most.
Got a little story for you. Ordered my Titus and got it from Cartecay after 12 weeks. Went to a local trail w/ a buddy for my easy first ride - no big deal. Proceded to complete 3/4 of the first 5-mile loop w/ no problem - loving my new rig more than words can say. Got to the final descent at the end of the looop. Jumped a meduim sized North Shore stunt like I always had, tried to BMX speed jump it going 23 mph like I always had, my new suspension jacked the rear over my front like Ive never known. I landed hard crashing on my head, right side and left side. Walked 3/4 mile out and went straight to the emergency room. I now have a broken 11th rib, a separated RT shoulder, and much roadrash to show for my first Titus ride. I love it!! This is great. Makes me feel youngg again. One of my riding buddies reminded me that my first GT ride ended much the same way over 6 yrs ago so I take this as a positive sign of good things to come. Im psyched as hell about getting back on my Switchblade again in 6 weeks to say the least. Im sure Ill get back just in time to shread it up again.
5 fat chilis for this in all the ways possible. Ive waited for this bike for a long time and Im loving it all the way. If you have the loot, make this deal happen.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a
from Colorado Date Reviewed: July 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
401
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
HammerHead
Strengths:
Everything. I love climbing and this bike climbs like no other-my downhill skills have imporved ten fold. Going over loose rocks is no longer an issue. This bike makes mtn biking soo much easier
Weaknesses:
I have not found any.
Similar Products Used:
I tested santa cruz, trek fuel, and specialized.
Bike Setup:
duke, thomson, monkeylites, raceface, sram.
Bottom Line:
This is a lot of money, but in the long run you will never have to upgrade. Best money i've ever spent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Golden, Co, USA Date Reviewed: July 26, 2002
XTR/XT, Fox Vanilla, Thomson, Chris King, Avid discs, Easton, Mavic tubeless = 27 lbs.
Bottom Line:
At the 24 Hrs of Moab after my teamate broke his derailleur and then rode the course with my bike he yelled "That was the best ride of my life, so f#*%$g fun!" even though before the race he was preaching against weight, pedal bob, disc brakes, tubeless, blah, blah, blah... Not anymore!
Same as other reviews... Had it setup a little light in front for climbing then switched the fork down to 105 mm which resulted in correct geometry with 4.5" rear travel. Now it climbs great and descends fast, smooth, and tight on any type of trail. I've ridden it in CO, CA, UT, & NV on jeep road, singletrack, & downhill courses. This bike is by far the best for real, fun suspension travel & handling vs. suspension that feels so stiff until you actually hit a big enough drop to compress it (i.e. Trek Fuel, Giant NRS).
I used to alway crash and get bloody and now I do longer more difficult trails faster without crashing (as much) due to the bike's forgiveness and handling resulting in much more fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Kemp
a Weekend Warrior
from Marin Ca US Date Reviewed: July 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
wheeler
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
titus factory
Strengths:
travel adjustablity, stiffness, strong, beefy and not too heavy. every weld is thick and perfect, the level of quality blows me away.
Weaknesses:
I could complain about a few things that don't affect how the bike rides, but this section should be removed for titus products.
Similar Products Used:
schwinn rocket 88 stage 1, titus loco moto.
Bike Setup:
Fox vanilla RLC. 5.7 rear travel kit:Fox RC, avid disk front & avid Ti V's rear. tompson post, easton carbon 1 in. riser, titec 120mm zero rise stem, king head set. hugi wheels on bontrager racelite rims. XT&XTR mix with next LP cranks & RF steel taperlock BB. Platform peddles
Bottom Line:
When my Loco Moto was recalled I decided to upgrade to the switchblade(they sent me $50 and a tea-shirt because of the recall). The rear shock from the loco moto is the same as the shock for the long travel kit on the switchblade, after $44 for the linkage I now have the long travel and short travel kits. Titus customer survice is great. Questions are answered by all knowing bike Gods. Hold buttons and voice mail don't exist at titus(thanks michelle).
As of now I have only riden the bike in the 5.7 in. setting, and I may never change it. The switchblade climbs much better than any 5+ inch bike has the right to. This bike weighs 5lbs more, has almost 2in more travel than my last bike, and I don't even notice the difference on the climbs.
It climbs like a goat, and it goes down even faster. Tight, fast singletrack turns are handled with ease; the switchblades stearing is quick and persise. Rocky, rutted, steep and loose stuff is where this bike really shines; it is stiff enough to let you take it fast, and is plush enough to inspire confidence over any terrain.
Drops, jumping, XC epics and DH fat tire desire; Buy this bike and the only people who will be sorry are your friends, rubbing the dust from their eyes and wondering how the hell you got so fast over night.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque, NM Date Reviewed: July 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Otero Canyon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Well built, climbs great and descends even better, beautiful gold anodyzed finish
Weaknesses:
Stickers flaking (I was planning to take them off anyway
XT drive train with XTR rear derailleur, Magura Marta Disc brakes with Stan's Notubes pads and aluminum rotors, Thomson stem and seatpost, Egg Beater pedals, American Classic hubs with Mavic X.1 tubeless rims, Easton Monkey Lite 26" bar; Fox Forx Float RLC front and Fox Float RL rear
Bottom Line:
Within 10 minutes of my first ride I made a climb I had walked everytime before. A little later a cleaned a technical descent which I never made before. With the Switchblade, I am traveling significantly faster and feel more in control than I ever felt on my old bike. I am cleaning sections of the trail that before I could only walk and watch with envy as friends cleared it. I definitely made the right choice.
I have the bike set up with 4.5" rear and 100mm front suspension. I figured I would try it out then reset the rear to 3.75" and the front to 80mm, but so far I have seen no reason to. It climbs so well as is and as my friends say, it descends like a Barco Lounger on wheels. The disc brakes are excellent--I never feel as if I cannot stop and the upgrade to Stan's pads and rotors are well worth the price.
For value I have to give the bike 5 chilis. It priced out to within a couple hundred dollars less to even with the other highend bikes I was looking at and it is setup exactly as I wanted it; whereas, there were compromises with all the other bikes either with component specs, lateral rear stiffness or travel. Of course it gets 5 chilis overall rating.
If you are looking for a light, even with disc brakes it weighs under 26 lbs, do anything bike and you have the cash on hand, you cannot go wrong with the Switchblade. It is worth every penny. My friends tell me I am still grinning ear to ear on our rides and there is a good reason for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wg
a Weekend Warrior
from SF Bay Area Date Reviewed: June 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Flume
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Purchased At:
Danville Bikes
Strengths:
Where to start? Climbs well, decends great. Adjustable, quality workmanship.
Weaknesses:
Price maybe? But its in the same range as similar products. I don't want to stop riding. Just keep on going.
XT components, Thompson Seatpost, Ritcher Stem, CK headset, XT Disc brakes, IRC Mythos tires, Fox Forx Float RLC, Fox RL Rear
Bottom Line:
This bike took a little getting used to coming off a hard tail. Main oddity (could be my riding style) is how the rear tracks actively in the corners. Once I got used to the feel, no prob. This bike weighs in a few more pounds than the M2 but I feel it climbs better. It hooks up and goes. I've cleared things I couldn't before. Now I have to blame myself if I can't do a climb (damn, no easy out!). I like the ability to lock out the rear shock. Only used the front lock out when doing long sustained fire road climb like Mitchell Canyon on Mt Diablo. Other than that, set it and forget it. Went up Tam on Saturday, from Blithedale Ridge to Elridge. Nice rocky section near the last 1/4 of the climb. This bike flew up and over everything. The decent had me grinning for the rest of the day. The bike can go faster than I can pilot it. I've ridden that trail many times on the old HT bike. The SB felt solid over all the obstacles. Never felt unstable until I pinch flatted. Didn't even feel that impact, suddenly the rear end felt squirrelly and saw the flat. Ruined my rhythm. Not a problem of the bike's. Other details, I'm 6'4" and weigh 220lbs so wanted a bike that could take some abuse. So far not a problem. 4 flaming what'sits for the price but 5 large flamers for the bike. Check 'em out if you can handle the wait for one from Titus. Sweet bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie
a Cross Country Rider
from Hollister, CA Date Reviewed: May 29, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Strengths:
Climbs like a goat, handles great, do all bike.
Weaknesses:
I have the polished frame, tends to scratch easy, decals, rear tire cannot exceed 2.1.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth, Intense
Bike Setup:
Psylo Race at 100mm, Chris King Hubs with Mavics 317s, Hope minis, Race Face Cranks, XTR shifters, derail, Easton seatpost, Thomson stem, LP bars.
Bottom Line:
This is my ultmate dream bike, I have been riding it since Oct and can't wait to get back on it as soon as I get off of it. I was riding a hard tail for 6 years and it took me awhile to get used to it, but as I did let me tell you, the bike can handle anything I give it. Now I just need to improve my skills even more. This old man is having fun again enjoying the sport that I'd grown to love all over again. This bike rocks!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jacob
a
from gaithersburg Date Reviewed: May 20, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I am adding to my review below. I paid $1700 for the frame only. I took the parts off my old bike. still a good frame for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jake
a Weekend Warrior
from gaithersburg, MD Date Reviewed: May 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
schaeffer farms and San Juan trail in SoCal
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Beyond Bikes
Strengths:
Beautiful bike, Awesome ride, and great construction.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Truth, I-drive, Trek VRX.
Bike Setup:
PSYLO SL, HAYES BRAKES, XT COMPONETS, BONTRAGER AND MAVIC RIMS, THOMSON POST, SALSA STEM.
Bottom Line:
WELL i FINALLY HAVE MY DREAM BIKE AFTER SAVING FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS. FOR THE MONEY THIS IS A GREAT BIKE. I DID NOT WANT TO SPEND 2000$ ON A ELLSWORTH TRUTH OR TURNER XCE. I HAD A CHANCE TO RIDE A TRUTH AND IT IS BY ALL MEANS A LOVELY MACHINE THAT RIDES AWESOME. I THINK THE TITUS IS AN EQUALLY BEAUTIFUL MACHINE AND RIDES JUST AS WELL FOR 300$ LESS. SO I THOUGH THE TITUS WAS A GREAT DEAL. THIS BIKE RIDES LIKE A DREAM. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT ELSE TO SAY ABOUT IT EXCEPT IF YOU WANT A UNIQUE, BEAUTIFUL, AND JUST A GREAT ALL A ROUND BIKE THAT IS NOT TO HEAVY AND RIDES SUPERB. GET A TITUS SWITCHBLADE. ENOUGH SAID!!!!!!!1
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from SF, CA Date Reviewed: May 8, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat
Strengths:
Everything. Climbs great - suspension is very quiet, but provides incredible traction on rough, steep stuff. Very stiff and solid, handles and corners great on anything. I have the long travel option (5.7"), so the downhills are fast and smooth, it sucks up drops, and suspension is active even under hard braking.
Weaknesses:
Horst link design causes rear derailleur to bang against the frame on rough downhills when on smallest gears. Can pad it and listen to it bang, or shift out of it, but then you can't go as fast. Surprised nobody's mentioned this, though it's really a minor issue.
Similar Products Used:
Superlight, RM Slayer
Bike Setup:
Marzoccchi Z1 FR, King, Avid mechanicals, XT derailleurs, Truvative BB and cranks, thomson post/stem, monkey lite, etc.
Bottom Line:
Best combination of top notch XC capabilities (unless you're racing), and super plush travel and handling. Mine's about 28#, so while that's not too heavy, you do put on some weight with the added beef and travel over something like a superlight, but the ride is 10x smoother, and you give up only about 2% on the climbs. Unless you are racing, get this bike. Oh yeah, and get it at Speedgoat. They will save you big money, help you dial it in, and no sales tax unless you're in PA.... Thanks Beth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yanou
a Weekend Warrior
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: April 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Gold Bar Rim - The Portal
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Welding - Overall quality - Climbing - Downhill ~ Freeride ALL of it -
Weaknesses:
None - maybe takes time to set up - I guess that what custom are about -
Similar Products Used:
GT I-Drives ... two broken frames -- -
Bike Setup:
Large Frame- Lond Travel Kit - Monkey Lite - disc brakes (XT & Formula) - Psylo Race - XTR - Chris King - Tires F2.5 - R2.3
Bottom Line:
Afte two broken GT frames (oustanding suspension system) - I decided to go with QUALITY made frame - Hesistant between Quasi and Switchblade... the long travel kit on the Sw made me chose the latter.
It took me a while to have the Psylo and the rear suspension work together (the back was always too smooth)- Spoke wiht Alan at Titus ... really good customer service - I have 280psi in the back / the Psylo 150psi for the NeGative and 160psi Positive chamber- I am 200lbs and really happy with the quality of this bike - since i keep destroying my bikes....parts and frames. This bike has past 6 months with success - Good Job Titus -
I blew up the rear shock - under warranty - Fox fixed that under 10days.
I just changed the rear Low Swing arm that fits large rear tires - a little expensive but I can now easily run FAT tires up to 2.7 in
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruce
a Weekend Warrior
from Arlington, VA, USA Date Reviewed: April 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Schaeffer Farm
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Breakaway Bicycles, Kalamazoo, Michigan
Strengths:
Relatively light, suberb handling, quality of construction, durability.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
FSR, Jeckyl
Bike Setup:
SID SL, RF Next LP crank, RF BB, Hope mini disks, hugi 240 laced to Mavic 317, Easton ct2 bar and post, thompson stem, WTB Laser Velociraptors, King HS, Sram 9.0sl ESP RD, XTR FD, XTR cassette, Crank Brothers pedals.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to my original review last October.
I appreciate this bike more and more everytime I ride it. The rear swing arm still has no play in it what so ever after 8 months of riding.
I recently installed a RaceFace ISIS Next LP crank and Signature Ti BB. 108mm is the correct spindle length not 113mm as recommended. You cannot get the correct chain line with a 113mm ISIS BB. Both the crank and BB are fantastic. (FSA Ti ISIS BB is lighter than RF but a piece of crap avoid.)
I have also added Hope mini disc brakes. They work great. Just be aware of the caliper and rotor size when ordering the brakes. For the rear of the Switchblade a #3 caliper works with a 165mm rotor and a #5 caliper works with a 145mm rotor.
Hopefully, my trial and error will save you some time and money.
With the current set up my bike weighs 26.3lbs. A little heavier than I would like, but it feels like a 23lb bike out on the trail and that's where it counts.
This bike is fantastic. See you on the trails!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard McKernan
a Cross Country Rider
from Lakewood, CO Date Reviewed: February 11, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Fairly light, stiff.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Demoed Ellsworth Truth, Titus RacerX/Quasimoto. Also own Bridgestone MB4 and GT All-Terra
Bike Setup:
Mostly XT.
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Demoed it locally for two days (Mt. Falcon & White Ranch), fairly decent climbs on both days. I struggled with the light front end on the climbs caused by 4 inches of travel, a bunch of stem spacers, high rise stem and bar. Since it was a demo, I couldn't mess too much with the geometry but would have liked to get the front end lower for climbing. Coming down was very sweet. Almost boring compared to a hard-tail. Front and back ends handled the small bumps of these hills very well making the ride fast and comfortable. I didn't notice the weight difference compared to my Zaskar so would recommend the bike highly to hard-tailers wanting a stiff fs bike. It is kind of expensive at about $3 1/2 with mostly XT components (and with a psylo SL to get the front end lower for climbing). I will probably get a new '99 Quasimoto (bushings!) that is $1000 less that has been sitting around the LBS for a couple of years. I can't find a demo on it but I like the 6 inches of coil-over rear end and think it may be better than the Switchblade at handling the really rough stuff. If I get it I will post a review on it too. I will be using whichever bike I get for the Keystone Xterra in July - 8 miles of climbing and 8 miles of challenging descending (even goes through 'Wild Thing')...
I really liked the light feel of the Ellsworth but too much $$$ for my budget. The RacerX is a heck of a stiff ride for an fs, but not as plush as what I want.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Cole
a Weekend Warrior
from Albuquerque, NM USA Date Reviewed: December 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
10K to Faulty in NM
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Purchased At:
123 Bikes
Strengths:
Lightweight, Handling likes it is on rails, versatility.
Weaknesses:
None found yet
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Dakar, rented a Intense Tracer.
Bike Setup:
XT drivertrain, Hope disc brakes, Rock shox Duke SL100, Cris King Headset, Hope hubs, Sun DS1-XC rims, Thompson Stem and seat post, Easton Monkeylite bars.
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome. It handles the rough trails we ride here in NM like big ledges and rough roller rock sections, but retains the ability to climb quickly due to the geometry and light weight. This is a bike that can handle Porcupine rim full out jumping 4 foot ledges and still allows for great technical ability. The bike was built by 123 Bikes which did a great job and paid attention to all the details. The components on this bike are perfect. I have not had it long enough to rate the duarbility, but by the looks and feel of things, it should be flawless. Go buy this bike if you are a hardcore trail rider !!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Reasor
a Weekend Warrior
from Buford, Ga, USA Date Reviewed: December 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
east west trail at Fort Mtn, Ga
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4900.00
Purchased At:
slippery pig bike shop
Strengths:
Quick precise handling, seems durable, feels plush, climbs reasonably well without lockout, light weight, attention to detail.
Weaknesses:
Lockout is hard to get to while riding. I used a short piece of plastic hose to extend the switch for easier access. Hopefully there will be a handlebar mount lockout available soon. Don't like seat post stop. Front end is hard to keep down on steep climbs but in all fairness I'm sure that it has a lot to do with my setup.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Truth which I use for xc racing.
Bike Setup:
Long travel kit, physlo sl, mavic crossmax disc ready wheels, grimeca hydrolic brakes, thompson seatpost, monkeylite high rise bars, thompson stem, king headset, kendra krisma tubless tires, full xtr, rapid rise, etc...
Bottom Line:
I am overall very happy with my purchase. I set this bike up for trail riding and moderate free riding. So far It has handled everything I have thrown at it without complaint. You might be interested to know that I weigh 216 lbs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat-o-Teck
a Cross Country Rider
from California Date Reviewed: December 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Miwok
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Kalo MTN Cycle
Strengths:
This bike is extremly light.FSR is just a great design
Weaknesses:
Hole's used for weilding allow dirt and water to accumulate in the frame.I recommend sealing them.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR,Truth,Heckler,Y Bike,
Bike Setup:
King headset and hubs,Hope XC4 brakes,Mavic X317 Rims,FSA Carbon Fiber cranks,eggbeater pedals,XTR shifters derailers
Bottom Line:
The bike is sweet the best I have ever rode.This bike is for any one who can afford to buy the very best.See you on the trails.
PS Kalo is the worst bike shop ever but he has great deals if you can wait for a year or two.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Freehold, N.J. Date Reviewed: November 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood state forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat.com thanks Beth
Strengths:
lite-stiff-adjustable travel
Weaknesses:
none so far..maybe more selection of frame sizes
Similar Products Used:
'97 superV. Intense tracer, '01 Truth
Bike Setup:
large frame '01 psylo race (100mm) fox float rc at 4.5", hayes hydro, king hubs and head set, race face turbo isis cranks/rings, 8-speed xtr driveline, kore elite stem, easton carbon riser bars, sdg slimjim saddle,time pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike climbs like a goat. Sprints like a hard tail and descends like a bobsled! I am a faster rider on this frame versus my old superV. Rock gardens and twisty single track are this bike's fun factor! I bought this frame sight unseen, and that was a little scary. Never thought I would do that ever! MBA issue in August gave it a great review, Beth at Speedgoat gave her stamp of approval. I knew of the advantages of the FSR and the Horst link,. The Intense tracer was another choice, and a close one. I went with 1/2" more rear travel rather than needle bearings for the Horst link. So far after 3 months it's been great. No issues or complaints. I ride almost every day. I was at Killington Vt. 5 days after UPS dropped the frame here. What a great time! It was not dialed in, but had the best runs ever. I recently ran a local race in the 3.75" mode. It was a very sandy course in south jersey, most riders on hardtails. The switchblade was great, just like a hardtail. I managed a strong 4th place. The overall build quality is excellent, all welds are perfect. The powdercoat is perfect. Even the decals can take a beating. This is not just an overpriced Specialized fsr, more like a refinement of the original design. I would recommend the switchblade to any trail rider,as it does everything I could wish for. 5 of them flaming things! NOW GET OUT AND RIDE!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Stewart
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: November 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
hammerheadbikes
Strengths:
handling, suspension performance
Weaknesses:
none really
Similar Products Used:
you name it
Bike Setup:
XTR, Avid Mechanicals, Thompson, King, Fox Forks
Bottom Line:
I absolutely LOVE this bike handles off camber rocky stuff like butter very, very stiff and precise perfect handling and suspension performance
I bought it from Charles at Hammerheadbikes, AWESOME service. He took the time to work out the parts kit for me to make sure I had the best bike for the money I could, even steered me clear of some more expensive parts that would have been a waste of my money
the bike was setup perfectly by Charles best build job I have ever had on a bike, the guy seriously cares and even took me out on the maiden ride to make sure it was dialed in for me... sweet oh, and even had beer at the shop for me :)
sweet
oh yeah, I just put on a new Fox fork, man, very impressive.
I love my bike and the guys at Titus and Hammerhead are the best in the biz...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brockin1
a Cross Country Rider
from Fremont, Ca. U.S.A. Date Reviewed: November 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Demo Forest, Downieville
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
All over the net.
Strengths:
Good looking, tight rear end, and soft when you ride it hard.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Tazmon "killer bike" Back up ride now. Tested many others, Tracer, Truth, Super Light, etc...
Bike Setup:
Tricked out! King, Race Face, Avid, Phil Wood, White Brothers, Velocity, Easton, etc...
Bottom Line:
This bike flat out rocks. Super plush In the 4.5" mode. The 3.75" mode is much stiffer if your not into the suppleness of the 4.5" mode. The 4.5" mode seemed to plush after comming off my old Santa Cruz Tazmon, but it only took about two miles on the trails to notice how much better the bike worked in the ruff stuff. The suspension is fully active pedaling or braking. That was the only thing I didn't like about my old bike, the rear end would lock out under hard braking. The Switchblade handles flawlessly. I've climbed a few hills that I've never been able to climb in the past. It seems to dig in and power up hills and comming down it just flat out smokes. It also seems to be very stable while in the air. I use to look for the smooth line, now I just launch off everything. The craftmanship is great, the welds are sweet. I would recommend the Swicthblade to anybody who just likes to get out and have fun. I'm stoked ,I think I'll go whip out my Switchblade and go for a ride. Later! P.S. Do not buy a bike from Kalo Mountain Cycles. E mail me and I'd be happy to give you the full story. A buddy of mine is just getting reammed by Bret the owner. Like I said I would be happy to give you the Info on this waste of skin!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob W
a Cross Country Rider
from Mesa, AZ USA Date Reviewed: November 9, 2001
HMMMM let me Think................................................... NONE
Similar Products Used:
SC Superlight(owned for a year) Played on Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Large Frame set at 4.5", Marzochhi Z.3 100mm coil, Carbon monkey light risers, hope mini discs w\ hope bulb hubs,xtr, xt drivetrain with race face turbine lp cranks. Time pedals, thompson seat post, race face stem, selle italia seat, Conti vertical pro rubber.
Bottom Line:
The bike handles better than anything ive been on, thats coming off a SC superlight. Sorry superlight lovers, the switchblade in my opinion dominates. Great out of seat hamering capability. This frame makes a great trailbike, buy one if you have the cash, and save until you can buy one if you dont have the cash. Its a very push ride, it wants to climb and it climbs like a goat. It loves to descend, pick a line and hold on. I felt like a little boy once I built the frame up. Titus knows what there doing.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a Cross Country Rider
from Surrey in the UK Date Reviewed: November 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
North downs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat
Strengths:
Strong lightweight frame, Quality of construction, great climbing, no lateral movement in rear end
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Klein mantra race
Bike Setup:
Psylo Race, Fox Float RC, XTR front, 9.0 SL shifter and derailer, chris King Headset, Hope mini Discs and Hope XC hubs, carbon monkey lite Riser bar, Thomson Stem and Seatpost, WTB saddle, TruVativ isis BB and team crankset
Bottom Line:
I wanted a replacement for the Klein as I've bust the rear triangle twice now, My wife has a racer X and when I saw the quality of construction from Titus, and the geometry of the Switchblade I just had to have one. I had problem with the front derailer as I had ordered a Sram 9.0 but this was incompatable with the very short top pull on the frame. The ride is great, climbs very well I find I can get out of the saddle and put the power on much better than on the Klein, and coming down is just a dream.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert M
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle WA Date Reviewed: October 27, 2001
Marzocchi Z1 MCR, Raceface ISIS crankset, seatpost, stem and flatbars, Chris King headset and hubs, Hayes discs and XTR. 4.5 inch travel mode. Conti Vertical pros on 317's.
Bottom Line:
Just got back from a road trip to Bend OR. The riding was fantastic. I cleaned sections that neither of my friends could. This bike is all that and a bag of chips. Whether you are flying off drops or rolling them they just aren't a big deal anymore. I didn't get the shock with the lockout and guess what, I don't miss it. This bike doesn't bob. You can even stand up on this puppy on fast ascents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruce
a Weekend Warrior
from Kalamazoo, Michigan Date Reviewed: October 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ft. Custer - T.K. Lawless
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Breakaway Bicycles, Kalamazoo, Michigan
Strengths:
Quality construction, great climbing, rear suspension, no lateral movement in rear end.
Weaknesses:
Weight was greater than expected, but stil good for this type of bike.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Cannondale Jekyl
Bike Setup:
SID SL 80mm, Rolf Propel wheels, XTR V brakes, Sram 9.0 SL, King headset, Easton carbon post, Coda Cranks, XTR BB, ATAC pedals, Thompson stem, Salsa HB, Fox float RC, 3.75" rear travel.
Bottom Line:
I screwed up getting the SID SL with this bike. My hope was to have a fully active four bar full suspension bike that weighed under 24lbs that I could do some 24 hour races on. The frame turned out to heavier than expected, I trusted a magazine review. I am sure there is a lesson in there somewhere. That said...
This bike is still the greatest bike I have ever had. It rides much lighter than it's actual weight. The rear suspension is so sweet it begs for more while my SID SL just noodles around up front. You can climb anything on this bike. Worth repeating. You can climb anything on this bike. It handles tight twisty stuff as well as rough downhills (as downhill as you can get in western Michigan)stuff.
This bike is best as a trail bike. Do not make the same mistake I did. Get yourself a Switchblade, a 100mm Psylo, some disk brakes, and use the 4.5" rear travel option - then go have some fun.
The bike is incredibly well built, the welds are clean, and there is no lateral flex in the rear end. The folks at Titus were a big help helping me select a size. Bike fits perfect. You cannot have a bad time riding this bike. I have enjoyed my rides on this bike more that any other.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: October 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Butchers Ranch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very stiff Climbs well Well built
Weaknesses:
More sizes would be nice, I went with a medium, but a medium/large would have been perfect if they had one.
Similar Products Used:
Tested - Tracer, Uzzi, Superlight, Truth, FSR, Isis, Joker, Bullit, AC, and a few others
Bike Setup:
Rear set to 4.5" Psylo SL Raceface riser Thompson stem (100mm) and post XT/XTR Drivetrain Laserbeam 25mm rims/Hugi disc hubs WTB Mutanoraptors 2.4 DX pedals
Bottom Line:
I originally was going to buy a freeride frame, and use my hardtail for climbing rides, but decided to buy an all around trailbike instead, ditch the hardtail, and save up for a freeride frame for my second bike. I decided to find the burliest frame with an airshock I could find (I did check out some frames with coil overs, but all the 4 bar designs didnt climb well enough for what I wanted), and the Switchblade was the best for my type of riding.
This bike likes to go FAST. The rear suspension comes into its own once you get it going over 20mph. It handles fine in tight singletrack, but really shines on fast scary decents. Ive dressed the bike to accentuate this quality, and it stills climbs like a champ. The bike corners remarkably, you can really lay this thing down in the turns, it handles more like a downhill bike than something xc oriented.
The bike is well built, the welds are nice and there is ZERO flex in the rear end, which makes the psylo sl feel noodly in comparison. I recently did a 4 foot drop off a retaining wall onto flat cement and the bike took it no problem, although Im not sure Id want to go for much more due to the fact that the frame only weighs 6.25 lbs. Overall Im very impressed with this frame, it gets five flamin turds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Manniko
a
from Sausalito, CA Date Reviewed: September 18, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Wrench Science
Strengths:
Light for all the suspension and lateral strength you get. Plush suspension, with minimal pedal input. Workmanship and quality is amazing.
Weaknesses:
Nada
Similar Products Used:
Demoed Ellsworth Truth, SC Superlight, Titus Quasimoto
Bike Setup:
Hayes discs, XTR rear/XT front, Mavic wheels, ‘02 Psylo SL, monkeylites, king headset, Thompson stem and seatpost.
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome trail bike. Mine is set with 5.7 inch rear travel and I love it. I was leery about going with longer travel because I do a lot of climbing, but I'm happy that I did, as pedal input is very minimal -- I’m not even going to bother to get the short travel kit as I had planned. I have yet to use the rear lockout. On long uphills I crank the psylo's travel all the way down and it climbs like an S.O.B. With the ablity to change the fromt travel and geometry on-the-fly I can run more spacers under the stem and riser bars, without getting the front too light for steep climbs. The traction this gets is unbelievable, enabling me to get up technical hills that I've never made up before. It feels rock solid, yet plush and nimble on downhills and through the twisties. I've never ridden a bike that is more fun and versatile. Disc brakes are a must for this frame as you’ll want every bit of consistent stopping power on those long downhills (because you’ll get moving!). Bottom line is that this bike is FUN, FUN , FUN!
Great recommendations/fitting from the folks at Wrench Science and a top-notch build.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Engelhorn
a Weekend Warrior
from Fall City, WA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Barn Burner (Kamloops, B.C)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Downhill Zone, Seattle, WA
Strengths:
Handles well, well balanced, relatively light, great craftmanship
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Intense Uzzi SL, Santa Cruz Superlight, Santa Cruz Bullit, Santa Cruz Heckler, Cannondale Super V
Bike Setup:
King hubs and headset, Race Face Isis cranks, TruVativ BB, XTR derailleurs and shifters, Hayes disc, Thomson post and stem, Easton MonkeyLite bar
Bottom Line:
Great bike. It's not as light as my Superlight, but is stiffer. It very well may be the ultimate trail bike. If you want really light full suspension, look elsewhere, but if you want a really nice trailbike, this is it. This bike seems the perfect compromise between the Superlight and the Uzzi. The Uzzi is fun, but pedals like a pig. I hated it for any uphill rides and loved it for downhills. The Superlight is really nice, but is a little flexy in the back and the ride will stiffen up under braking. The Titus on the other hand is plush, but not obscenely so, and is very stiff laterally. It really digs in on technical climbs and descends really well. I've been lucky enough to own a lot of bikes and this is the best all around bike in the bunch. A quick plug is also in order for the Downhill Zone in Seattle. Darren, Scott and Jeff are great to work with, know their stuff and gave me a great deal. They will ship anywhere and only deal in high-end stuff, so give them a call.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zach
a Downhiller
from Berkeley Date Reviewed: July 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
SIDOH
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
wrenchscience.com
Strengths:
If your looking for a laterally stiff rear end. This is the bike. Adjustable travel, climbs like a goat, descends like a DH bike, ultimate free ride machine
Weaknesses:
The air valve for the long travel is really tricky to get into, I wouldn't say its a weakness, but more of a pain in the ass.
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Dakar Team, Intense Tracer, Ventana El Saltamontes,
Bike Setup:
Sick. Big drops, big air.
Bottom Line:
Put in the extra dollars to get the best. If your looking for a free ride bike that can cover 40+ miles on the day you have to hammer with the hard tail guys, and dust them on the descent, I highly recommend looking close at this frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Burros
a Cross Country Rider
from Annandale Date Reviewed: July 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Marys Loop/Lions Loop
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Kenwood Cycles
Strengths:
Overall Ride, Finish Quality, Stiffness, it's all good!!!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None that can compare to this.
Bike Setup:
Psylo SL, Fox Float R, XTR, King Headset, Avid Discs, Conti 2.3 Vertical Pros, Hayes Elite Hubs/317 Rims, CT2 Riser, Thomson Stem and Seatpost, Serfas ARC Saddle, Speedplay Pedals.
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike on recommendations from alot of shop owners who sell Titus and other high end bikes of this level. I looked at Ellsworth, Ventana, Intense, Santa Cruz, Psycle Werks, etc. I had never seen a Switchblade in person or ridden one so I was very nervous about the purchase. All my fears were laid to rest after seven miles (I rode 21, but 7 was enough to know I made the right decision), its incredible.
I was riding a Jamis with 3" of travel front and rear and I really liked that bike a lot, but I wanted to have the option of more travel and I wanted to get at least 100mm of travel in the front. After a lot of research and time I ordered the Titus. What I was hoping to get was more of a trailbike and less of a XC FS Racer, which was what the Jamis was. I got it. The first couple of miles I thought I might have gone overkill, it felt so plush that I thought I was wasting energy, but after almost being done with the first lap of the trail I was so pleased I felt like a little kid who just learned how to ride a two wheeler. After the second lap of just letting it go I was giggling like a little girl. It is super plush but it handles awesome (I have it setup at 4.5" rear and 100mm front), it untwists tight singletrack, rails corners like a rollercoaster, climbs hills like a goat on EPO, and accelerates like a rocket.
The way I have the bike built it weighs a hair over 27 pounds, but it feels like my 25 pound Jamis. There is nothing that I can't accomplish faster, and better on this bike than I could on my old frame. It climbs better than my Ti Hardtail which weighs 23.5 pounds.
The customer service at Titus is awesome, I talked to them about five times before I decided on the Switchblade and they were super helpful every time. If you are looking for an all around awesome trailbike with lots of travel options this is a great choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Hill
a Cross Country Rider
from Kodiak, Alaska Date Reviewed: July 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Hammer Head Bikes
Strengths:
Design, quality of construction, handling, and "MADE IN THE USA"!
Weaknesses:
Didn't come with a winning lottery ticket, but I guess I'll survive.
Similar Products Used:
Inexpensive hardtails
Bike Setup:
Small frame with 'Fox Float R' shock, Marzocchi x-fly 100 fork, Formula 'B4' hydrolic disc brakes, 'XT' components, Rolf dolomite disc wheels, Thomson seatpost and stem, Easton 'monkey lite' bars, Time A.T.A.C pedals
Bottom Line:
I've been on the bike a month now, and have put about 250 miles on it. I won't detail the components yet, but I wanted to at least get an initial review up. So far this bike has been nothing short of outstanding. The handling on this bike is awesome! I had to adjust my brain to keep up with the bike. If you can think it, it can do it. The suspension is terrific. It's unfair to compare this bike against the old hardtails I've been riding, but I have nothing else to compare it to. I won't be going back. Can't say enough about Charles Coker at Hammer Head Bikes (hammerheadbikes.com). He helped me choose some of the components, discussed other bike options, and was incredibly prompt on all correspondence. He'll ship to anywhere, but I picked my bike up in person. He let me look over his shoulder while he put some finishing touches on some other bikes, then he took me on a 3 hour ride and made whatever adjustments I wanted. If you're looking for a top shelf bike, at the very least I'd recommend you to talk to this guy. I'm no pro, but I'm no slouch either. I ride as hard as I can and I have yet to outride this frame. For once, I have a bike that is limited by my skills, not skills that are limited by my bike. I'm giving it a top value rating because it's worth every penny! I've got to give it a top overall rating because I can't find a thing wrong with it, it's built as well as any bike I've ever seen, and it rides even better than I had hoped (and I was hoping for alot). I'll keep you posted.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Luniewski
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mission Ridge
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Kalo
Strengths:
Craftsmen ship, rear suspension, handling, the do it all bike
Weaknesses:
None to be found.
Similar Products Used:
Intense Tracer, Ellsworth Truth
Bike Setup:
Chris King wheels & headset, 9.0 SL shifter and derailer, Easton Monkey Light bars, Flit gel seat, Thompson stem & seat post, XTR cranks, X-Fly 100 front shock, Avid Ti brakes, WTB Stealf pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike does it all. It is well designed and thought out. I built my gold frame up as a trail bike with a little racer in it(25 pds). I looked hard at buying the Intense Tracer; I am so glad that I chose the Titus. It is, hands down the better bike, more rear travel, more adjustable and a lighter frame. The Switchblade climbs better than my hard tail. It has improved my descending by giving me more confidence. It is worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Price
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001
Z-1 Xfly, Thomson stem & post, Truvative Stylo Crankset, Flite Saddle, XT pods & fr Der, XTR rear Der, Avid SD7 brakes, King hubs & headset, Raceface low rise bar
Bottom Line:
I have to think hard to come up with a weakness but the two that come to mind are the weight and the inability to drop the saddle because of the interrupted seattube design. IMO neither of these are a serious issue. My Switchblade weighs in at around 27.5 lbs with DH pedals and aggressive wheels/tires. It's definitely a trail bike first, but decked out with lighter weight components, it would make a decent weekend racer. Although I would recommend the RacerX to the racer crowd first.
The bike is really an oustanding performer. Handling, climbing and suspension action are definitely as good as the posts below state. But unlike the posts below, I would say the price is actually lower than most bikes in it's class. The Truth and El Salt are both more expensive and the Tracer is about the same but is limited to 4" travel.
Another interesting thing in regards to the Tracer, which is a bike that I really like and have some trail time on, is how the Switchblade feels more efficient. For all practical purposes the Switchblade is a Tracer clone, but Titus seems to have implemented the suspension in a manner that makes the Switchblade feel a lot more stiff and responsive.
Overall the Switchblade lives up to my expectations of what a bike in this class should be like and it's nice being able to support a company like Titus ... Thanks Chris and Alan.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Houghton, Michigan Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Churning Rapids
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3400.00
Purchased At:
The Bicycle Shop, Grayling MI
Strengths:
For the amount of travel (4.5inches) there is very little bob under pedal, even standing up. The bike just feels right; straight out of the box.
As good as my S-Works FSR was this bike is better, as it should be for the price. The stiffer rear end was noticable. The biggest difference was the 4.5 inches of travel over the three in the specialized. It swallowed everything big or small. Bottom line, if you have the means I highly recomend picking one up, they are so choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Theo Smit
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta, CANADA Date Reviewed: June 5, 2001
Top tube cable routing needs zipties etc. to keep it away from your legs.
Similar Products Used:
Amp Research B4 (owned since '96)
Bike Setup:
5.7" linkage and Float RC shock, Rock Shox SID XL, Hugi 240 hubs/DT spokes/Mavic X517 wheels, Hope XC4 discs, XT drivetrain, RaceFace Ti BB and Next cranks, Fizik saddle, Easton CT2 seatpost and handlebars. The fork is dropped in the crowns to steepen up the headtube angle as much as possible.
Bottom Line:
SWEEEEEEET! Climbs as well as my AMP, descends like it's on rails, and looks like no other bike. I only wish Titus would adopt downtube cable routing and also make it continuous-housing friendly. It's not cheap but worth every penny. By the way, I purchased mine at Calgary Cycle - thanks to Derek and Darrell for hooking me up! (Editors: the form didn't expose the "purchased at" field - netscape 6).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from Fremont, Ca. Date Reviewed: May 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Soquel/Demo Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
123bikes
Strengths:
great balance, no lateral flex, awesome handling, superb climber, does everything well.
Weaknesses:
I got the polished frame, finish was initially poor but about 45 minutes with some polish fixed it right up. The finish seems to be holding up pretty well since then. The price (however, its about the same as all other frames in this league).
Similar Products Used:
Answer/Manitou FS, Intense Tracer (parking lot test), Ellsworth Truth (same thing), Specialized FSR, Ventana Marble Peak.
Bike Setup:
2001 Zoke X-Fly 100, Thompson seatpost and stem, Hayes Hydros, King Discotechs w/317's, King headset, Race Face XS bottom bracket and Next LP cranks, Speedplay Frog peddles, Monkey Lites, SRAM shorty shifters, xt front der, xtr rear der, Fox Float RC (lock-out), xtr casette, Race Face rings. 26.75 Pounds.
Bottom Line:
I was initially apprehensive about purchasing this bike. I was buying it without a test ride, but with the advise of a few knowledgable friends. All of my worries were laid to rest after my first ride. This bike has incredibly precise handling. It is very stable at speed and takes the tight twisty stuff with minimal effort. Last year there were a few technical sections of my normal trails that I would walk. With the Switchblade, I now ride all sections of my trails. It has definitely increased my confidence level. I'm now able to keep up with a lot of the guys who were leaving me behind on the downhills. Its a great climber also. The lockout on the fox works great on the long smooth climbs. On rough, technical climbs, leave it active and the bike digs in were others are slipping. I don't think this is the best bike for a cross country racer, it's a little heavy for that. Even with v-brakes and a lighter fork, you'll probably still be over 25 pounds. But it is an outstanding trail bike. Honestly, how many of us are competitive cross country racers and how many of us just ride for the pure fun of it. This bike doesn't force you to compromise. It performs exactly as Titus advertises. It is a go anywhere, do anything bike. It climbs like a goat and decends like lighting. The only thing holding this bike back is my lack of skill. If you can have only one bike in your garage, this is it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Bjelic
a Cross Country Rider
from Milton, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 28, 2001
Cane Creek WAM Ti Wheelset White Brothers AT-3 XTR\XT bits and pieces Truvative Stylo cranks Thompson seat post and stem Easton monkey lite bar Long travel (5.7 inch) option w Fox Float RC w lockout
Bottom Line:
I was first exposed to Titus bikes a few years back while in Moab. I rented a Racer X and was amazed at the ride quality and construction. I knew then that I would have one of my own one day. When the Switchblade became available I knew this was the frame to go with. I'm a big fan of fast technical trails, and slow drop style structure trails, and.... fast xc single track. In other words, I do it all, and so does this frame. With switchable travel (3.5 to 5.7 to locked out), There isn't much this bike can't handle. It's weight makes it well suited to long rides and climbs, and it's strength and travel make it well suited to some serious trail use. The FSR suspension design is proven and efficient, And Titus's execution of this design is the best in the industry. This bike was worth the wait. Titus makes the bikes in small numbers so a bit of patience is required if you custom order. They are not your typical Taiwan Corporate raiders, They handcraft these bikes with serious attention to all details. My only problem is convincing my wife that I now need to replace my other bikes with Titus versions. You will not be sorry for choosing Titus, They are simply the best frame builder on the planet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles Coker
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything with lots of rocks !
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
hammerheadbikes.com :)
Strengths:
stiff, precise handling, confidence inspring, climbing traction, suspension performance, customer service from Titus
Weaknesses:
umm.... you will probably have to wait to get one!
Similar Products Used:
Truth, XCE, Tracer, Racerx, Loco Moto, ElSaltemontes, Isis, geez.. you name it
Bike Setup:
king headset, king disctok/sun wheels, Thompson stem/post, Flite Transam saddle, Easton lo rise, XTR shifters/der's/cranks/bb/rear cassette, (testing) different disc brakes, avid mechanicals, Hope Minis, Formula B4, Magura Louise... etc..
Bottom Line:
cut to the chase man...
Well, I have had just about every highend fs bike out there... for ME and for MY trails this is the best bike out there it feels like a Racerx on steroids very precise handling yet stable, I don't know how they do it, but for some reason Titus bikes just handle so well, it is nice and quick and nimble in the tight stuff yet feels stable bombing down rock ledges and drops.. most bikes do one or the other... rarely both and so effortlessly
the bike is very, very stiff laterally accelerates extremely well, climbing is great in the rough stuff, tons of traction
This is the first bike I have been on since my first Racerx a few years ago that I gush about and tell people "man, I LOVE my bike!" I have had probably 10 highend or custom FS bikes since that first Racerx...
Titus is an outstanding company to deal with both as a dealer and as a rider, truly world class and they go out of their way to take care of their customers. Service above and beyond the call of duty. They sincerely DO care abotu their customers and truly want them to be happy. In short, they are the kind of people you want to do business with.
I am truly impressed with this bike and sincerely think it's the best FS "trail bike that can be raced at the expert level" bike out there.
If you want to see some pics hit my website http://www.hammerheadbikes.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Travis B
a Cross Country Rider
from PHX Date Reviewed: May 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
National
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4800.00
Purchased At:
SMC
Strengths:
Light Weight Strong and Stiff Adjustable Travel Looks Great
This is the ulimate do all trail bike. Standard Travel offers me great climbing and quick handling on single track and the long travel offers more of the same with bombing travel. My Switchblade isn't scared to do the big drops anymore. I think everyone should own one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
derek souza
a Weekend Warrior
from fremont ca Date Reviewed: May 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
any good single track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
123bikes.com
Strengths:
bike handles great no side flex in the rear triangle
Weaknesses:
price but any high end bike is expensive
Similar Products Used:
manatou fs and ht gt rts and zaskar
Bike Setup:
chrisking headset and dischubs hayes disc brakes marzocchi cr z1 thomson stem and seat post monkeylight bars 317 rims raceface cranks and bb intense 2.25 cc front tire xtr rear d xt front gripshift etc etc
Bottom Line:
great bike better than any bike i've owned it's fun i don't care much for the disc brakes if i was to go back in time v brakes would be on my ride disc are expensive and don't performe that much better but the bottom line is it puts a big smile on my face and i put a old rts together for my son and we ride together alot
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terry Larsell
a Cross Country Rider
from White Salmon WA Date Reviewed: May 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Crybaby, Coyote cliffs loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3160.00
Purchased At:
123bikes
Strengths:
nobody has one around here and it appears to be bullit proof.
Weaknesses:
stickers are kind of hokey (but they come off easy) and it cost way more than I should have spent on a bike. The Time peddles had me paying elbow dues till I ground them down a little.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y22 (for 5 yrs) Tried many the new rides out there, Trek Specialized Giant Shwinn Klien
Bike Setup:
hayes disc, rolf dolomites, thomson stem and post, monkee lite risers, time peddles, manitou x vert air, fox r air shox
Bottom Line:
This bike has me riding through stuff I never rode before. It climbs as good as anything I have ridden, although the weight is notable compared to the 3" travel bikes I tried. This bike really shines in the rocky drops and switchbacks that used to make me avoid certain trails in the neigborhood Disc brakes are worth the added weight, single finger braking from any position. All this travel takes some getting used to but it seems to be growing on me, only problem is I'm spending more time waiting for my biking buddies on there hardtail and semi hardtail rides. I still would like to ride the Intense Tracer to compare but I feel like I made the right call.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Spectre
a Cross Country Rider
from Mountain View, CA Date Reviewed: April 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Soquel Demo Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Hammerhead Bikes
Strengths:
Climbs & descends well, Very stiff laterally, Active Suspension, Great service from Titus
Weaknesses:
Relatively expensive (but you get what you pay for)
For most riders, I think this is a great bike. Not only does it descend well, it also climbs well. Compared to my hardtail Kona Explosif, it definitely is better on steep technical climbs where traction is at a premium. On long, fire road climbs, the difference is slight, if any. In terms of descending, there is no comparison.
Compared to the Superlight, the Switchblade suspension is more active when accelerating and braking. The Superlight does feel more like a hardtail in that the suspension locks out under power, so this may be more desirable for some riders used to riding a HT.
Compared to the FSRs, the Switchblade suspension feels similar but with a much stiffer rear triangle.
I was also considering an Intense Tracer or an Ellsworth Truth. I didn't get to try a Tracer & the overwhelming number of positive comments on Titus' service swayed me toward the Switchblade. I was right in between a small and medium Truth in terms of fit so that took the Truth out of the running.
What types of riders might not like the Switchblade. Racers looking for the lightest & most efficient FS bike may find the Switchblade to be a little too heavy and plush for race-only bike. Also, I don't think this bike is intended primarily for riders who are into doing big drops all day. In the Titus line-up, the Quasi-moto would probably be better suited for this type of riding. For just about everyone else, I think the Switchblade is a great bike. It's not necessarily the best in any one area, but it does just about everything and goes anywhere fairly well. If you're interested in learning more, contact Charles at Hammerhead Bikes (www.hammerheadbikes.com) or Alan at Titus (www.titusti.com) They're both great sources of information and give good recommendations on part selection.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jaren Johnson
a Cross Country Rider
from Gilbert, AZ, Date Reviewed: April 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
my secret in AZ called home grown
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Rage cycles
Strengths:
This bike is pure pleasure to ride, It can do anything well It will climb, drop fly and go right where you point it. I have hit so many trails in arizona and it loves all kinds of terrain. The workmanship is right on and Titus is great to deal with. Everyone that rides it loves it. I don't have one negitive thing to say about this machine.
I go back and forth on the long travel and short. Thompson stem and seat post chris king headset answer pro tapers bars Raceface cranks and BB time carbon pedels XTR front D 9.0 rear D Avid Mag levers and Avid cable disc also Geax tires.
Bottom Line:
This is a mighty fine do it all machine that will allways keep you looking for more. This bike builds confiedence and will erge you to ride more,and push alittle harder. This bike makes me look for drops that I would never have considered with any other bike. As I mentioned earlier this bike is pure pleasure to ride. I have alot of miles on it and it has not made a noise. The guys over at Titus have been great to deal with and there finished product is a work of art.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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