|
|
|
| |
Submitted by
MTBPhan
a Weekend Warrior
from Wallyworld, CT
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Lovers | | Strengths: | I LOVE THIS BIKE! It makes me look like a much better rider than I really am ;) Light, climbs like a giant, handles magnificantly. Looks sharp. Overall incredible value. | | Weaknesses: | Nitpicking->shifting. Rear deraileur can be choppy, maybe its my shifting though too, but im reading others have the same prob. Still, this is a non-issue imo. | | Similar Products Used: | Klein, Trek 6500 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line is you can probably get a great deal on this bike, if so, pick it up! Its also got longevity, im straight on needing a new bike for a while. Great for those getting into the sport who want to start with a bike they can depend on for a while, or for the vet who needs a new solid bike. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Racer
from Crownsville, MD
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | patapsco valley-- ridge trail | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$875.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Doctor-best sponsor ever! | | Strengths: | stiff frame decent components, light, tires hook up well
| | Weaknesses: | brakes are mediocre | | Similar Products Used: | none that i like as much as this | | Bike Setup: | XT with some XTR, Rock shox Sid Race, Raceface grips and bar, hutchinson tires | | Bottom Line: | fun to ride fun to race fun to do whatever on, weather a weekend rider or a hardcore racer this is a good value, throw a sid race on and save more than a pound from an already light bike | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver
Date Reviewed: June 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Matthews Winters | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1150.00 | | Purchased At: | Turin Bikes/Denver | | Strengths: | Light weight, stiff, first time I've noticed a significant ability to accelerate on trails. Good quality Shimano XT components. | | Weaknesses: | Ocassional shifting problems from Large chainring to medium chainring. On dry dusty trails, braking doesn't stop on a dime. Road bike rims seem to be more advanced. | | Similar Products Used: | Klein and Specialized | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I had my mind set on buying a Klein. After test-riding Klein, Specialized and Trek, the Trek 8000 was the most comfortable fit. On moderate difficulty trails around Denver, I can slingshot out of turns and corners, excellent feeling. Great feeling, smooth hardtail bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A Carlson
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bayview Cycle Centre | | Strengths: | It's a very light weight, excellent parts from XT Gears, Avid Brakes, a Rockshok, and Clipless pedals. | | Weaknesses: | None at this point | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale, Rocky Mtn | | Bottom Line: | Would highly recommend this bike for anybody looking for a good value and quality. I used this bike for two years and had no major problems with the exception of one major crash that my local bike shop, Bayview Cycle was able to save, slight dent - but works great. Highly impressed with the beating it keeps taking. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from LongGrove IL
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | RRB | | Strengths: | components,color scheme, good all around frame | | Weaknesses: | bontrager seatpost and grips, had to replace | | Similar Products Used: | giant xtc se1, gary fisher tassajara, specialized rock hopper | | Bike Setup: | magura hs-33 brakes, yeti grips, thomson seatpost, selle italia seat, nokian boazabeans F & R tires, | | Bottom Line: | Used on a weakly basis and is still holding up very well. The only problem has been the seatpost the kept slipping and I replaced it. The components that came with the bike for the price are a great bargain. The bike looks really good with the rolf wheels and the paint job. The fork is holding up but planning to replace with either a 03 duke or sid race. The bike feels great on the trails and it was a great buy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Lonewolf, Grotpeter | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Lightweight frame. Same paint scheme as 01 Fuel 100 and Elite 9.8. Reasonably well equipped for the price. Last year for the disk brakes on high-end hardtails. Easy to maintain. | | Weaknesses: | Clearcoat and paint are thin. Bontrager seatpost clamp is easy to strip. Judy SL creaks and the right forf seal has started to leak. | | Bike Setup: | Replaced BB and cranks with XT/LX, Rr der. w/ XTR, Fr der. w/ XT, Salsa shaft seatpost, Thomson stem, Selle Italia Flite, Panaracer FireXC Pro, Cateye Enduro 2. | | Bottom Line: | This is one of the best hardtails out there. I have had this for a little over a year now and the bike is still standing. No major problems to report. Frame is still intact and continues to ride well. Most of my component changes were in the interest of comfort or weight savings. Swapped out crankset b/c I wanted to save some weight, so I don't have any experience with the cranks being "flexy." Keep in mind that a lot of posts on MTBR are from people who have never even tested the products and just like to slam. Dolomite disc wheels are pretty tough. I knocked the rear one out of true once, but since adjustment has been perfect. Rear hub is loud, but I haven't had a problem with it. Stock Hayes are absolutely awesome. I will never ride anything but discs again. The small weight penalty is far worth the superior braking and ease of maintenance. The Judy SL has held up well. It is just now starting to have some maintenance issues, but I planned on getting a new fork this spring anyway.
My next bike will definately be a F/S but I anticipate having this as my main ride for at least a couple more years. Even after I get a new rig, I know I'll still ride this one. Hardtails can't be rivaled on the climbs or on the flats. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karl Raupp
a Cross Country Rider
from London, Ontario
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Haven't met a bad one yet | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$920.00 | | Strengths: | Super frame, Rolf Satellite wheels, nice componentry spec, blah blah blah - overall an excellent bike for the price. | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager Comp cranks sometimes is hesitant shifting to the granny. Of course when you need the granny, it's frustrating to chain suck in it's place :( | | Bike Setup: | All stock except it now sports a Manitou Elite Air 80mm fork, Titec barends, Cateye computer and a San Marco Hovercraft seat. | | Bottom Line: | This is an update to my original review just over a year ago. After more than a year and over 2000km of riding, I am still impressed by this bike and the overall package. The frame is still rock solid, it climbs like a monkey, rails corners, downhills great and is just a confidence inspiring platform. After a year of riding and seeing my skills grow, this bike is still much better than I am a rider. I only ride cross country style, no hucking or trials type riding in my blood.
Mechanically the bike has been bulletproof. The Rolf Satellite wheels have only needed truing once and still roll smoothly and the stock componentry has held up extremely well. I've replaced brake pads a couple of times, chain once and done routine maintenance but that's about it. With as many miles of riding as I have, some parts are at the end of their life like the cassette and all the cables but I'll milk those until the season is over and start fresh next spring. I just replaced the Judy SL as I just felt like spending some money on my bike. Some things I'm amazed at how long they are lasting is the tires - like the Energizer bunny they just keep going and going and... Admittedly the rear tire is getting sketchy so it's time to research some new treads. Grips are soon to be replaced as well.
Upgrades I've done include Titec barends and I just intalled a Manitou Elite Air fork - WOW! The new fork is so far more advanced than the Judy SL it's amazing - and I really liked the Judy SL to begin with. Now that I have a new fork, I can see that the bushings in the Judy were wearing/worn. My original Bontrager seat started creaking so I put my old trusty San Marco Hovercraft on. It's a seat hated by all far and wide but my butt fits it like a glove and that's what's important.
Overall I think this is an unbeatable package! When I was looking for a bike last year, I looked at Cannondale, Giant, Specialized, Gary Fisher and so on but none of 'em had such a solid package as the 8000. And when you look at the reviews of this bike here saying how solid, reliable and ridable it is, it paints a pretty clear picture of this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Ft. Wayne, IN
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | ANYTHING | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Where to start? SOLID frame - beautiful welds. Decent components all around. Nice looking machine. The bike simply oozes quality. . .thank you TREK! | | Weaknesses: | The Avid SD3's and the LX levers/shifters gotta go. I'm finally replacing them this weekend with SD7's, Speed Dial 7 levers, and XT pods. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale, GT | | Bike Setup: | Stock - soon I'll have the aforementioned upgrades. | | Bottom Line: | I LOVE THIS BIKE! Very comfortable - I've seen some complaints about the saddle but it doesn't seem to bother me. I've ridden a little of everything, but for the majority of Indiana riding I don't need a full-sus bike. The frame is ALWAYS rock solid - very confidence inspiring. Very quick, very agile, always fun, and not a single breakdown on the trail yet. I was recently in a race where mtb's and roadies covered the exact same course and you shoulda seen the faces on the roadie riders when they got passed by a mountian bike!! I loved the bike after the first month, and it continues to impress me with each ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from Hampshire, IL USA
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Rack, St. Charles, IL | | Strengths: | Hayes hydraulic brakes are awesome, sturdy wheels, Shimano parts, overall Value, Trek reputation, | | Weaknesses: | Bontranger crank, & front shifting. Fixed by LBS. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale dual V700, Trek 830, tested many others | | Bike Setup: | Hayes Disc Brakes!! Bontranger wheels! Upgraded Ouri grips, ATAC comp pedals, Rock Shox susp. seatpost, Koobi seat, cracked Performance bar end grips, | | Bottom Line: | After 9 months of trouble-free riding in Illinois and Wisconsin on the roughest trails around, I took a week-long trip to Winter Park, CO to do some real mountian riding. I brought a complete tool box for the hotel room, and a Crank Bros. multi-tool in my CamelBak, expecting that something would break or otherwise need repair. NOTHING let me down! The bike and all components worked as expected. Thank Hayes for such great brakes - no arm swelling holding a death grip on the Kamakazi downhills (as I had to with previous V-brakes). The paired-spoke wheels stayed true despite riding into and over rocks the size of hall closets. The front fork worked fine, and I see no need for any upgrade there. Rapid-Fire shifting was quick and flawless. When the bike was new, I had unmanagable problems with the crank and shifting up front that could not be fixed with ordinary tools trailside -but which the LBS troubleshot and fixed. The stout aluminum frame is good or bad depending on your skeleton's capacity for shock. I put a suspension seat post in and like the ride much better. (I am used to the smooth ride of my Airborne Titanium road bike, or my old dual susp. Cannondale) I recommend this bike highly with the hydraulic disc brakes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Juelson
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Forks, ND
Date Reviewed: June 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Medora, ND | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | Frame is excellent, XT Rear Derailleur, Nice looking bike | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager Comp crank, pedals, Judy SL fork | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4900 | | Bike Setup: | 17.5 in. frame, Spinergy SPOX wheelset, Time ATAC pedals, upgraded stem, Deore front derailleur (instead of LX), MAXXIS Mobster tires, bar ends, | | Bottom Line: | This is a solid frame, and it is worth putting some quality parts on here. It is an all around great performer out on the trail. The frame is very stiff, which has many advantages. However, I will be adding a suspension seat post to help ease pressure on my buttocks and back. I have not encountered the problems with the Bontrager crank that other reviewers have, but it has still had some issues. Part of this may be that I am 145 lbs, but you would think a guy my size would have difficulty bending the crank ring just by pedaling hard. I bent the middle ring (merely by pedaling hard while shifting) and had to take a hammer to it to bend it back into place. The crank is another item that will be replaced in the near future. A fork with more adjustability would also be desirable, especially for racing.
Overall, this is a great bike. It does take a bit of work and a few $$ to transform it into an adequate racing unit though. If you are looking for a quality hardtail that will perform well in most situations and allow you to be competitive in the lower racing categories, then this will likely be a good fit for you.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel Sitkins
a Weekend Warrior
from Kalispell, Montana, USA
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Farragut | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheatons Cycle | | Strengths: | Great Frame (nice paint job too!), Love the Rolf Satellite Wheels. Excels in tight turns!
Worth putting a few extra $$ into. | | Weaknesses: | Shimano M515 Clipless pedals take a little getting used to, but that could just be me, might upgrade to the ATAC's. Avid SD3 breakset stopping power is so-so. | | Similar Products Used: | Test road about every bike out there!
Upgraded from a GT Hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Pretty much the stock setup - Out-of-the box. | | Bottom Line: | I LOVE THIS BIKE! Awesome bike in my opinion. I got an awesome deal on the whole thing. I upgraded from a GT Hardtail and have no regrets. I'm considering getting into XC racing, and the bike feels great. I can really fly on this bike and still feel in control. I looked at the Elite 9.8, but way too much $$$. I Recommend this bike to anyone willing to spend about $1000 on a bike. I did a lot of shopping around before I bought this bike, and believe me, it's the best bike you can get for the money.
I have read a lot a complaints about the seat and crankset, After a couple hundred miles, I haven't had any problems with either one. I might upgrade the Judy SL in the future, but not just yet. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chuck
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Rosa
Date Reviewed: April 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Annadel, North Burma | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1049.00 | | Purchased At: | Rincon Cyclery, Santa Rosa CA | | Strengths: | Well built, light frame, Sweet Rolf Sattelite wheels, good component set.
| | Weaknesses: | The Avid SD-3's didn't inspire alot of confidence. | | Similar Products Used: | Lower Model Treks, a couple of Specialized products
and an old Diamond Back. | | Bike Setup: | XT shifter pods, Avid SD-7 brakes and levers, Other than these changes, the bike is pretty much stock. | | Bottom Line: | After being out of the sport for a few years, I decided to get back in and the 8000 proved to be the right bike for me.
What a difference coming off of an old Diamond Back Ascent, and a cheap full suspension MGX from Costco. The bike is light, and very durable. I wasn't sure how the Rolf wheels
were going to hold up, but they have proven to be very strong and light. I typically ride three or four times per week, averaging 15 to 20 miles per ride, and the bike is more capable than I am. It climbs well and is very manueverable. The only draw back was the SD-3's but they
were replaced a few months ago with the SD-7's. Now, I am able to carry more downhill speed and know that I can control the bike. Overall, this is one of the best purchases I have made. I ride with several guys who have more expensive machines, and it seems like they are often messing with adjustments here and there. I just keep mine clean and lubed after every ride and I never have to mess
with anything on the trail. My endurance and climbing ability have improved dramatically over the last couple of months, much of it due to having a nice ride! I'll have this bike for a long time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff (Shorty)
a Weekend Warrior
from Virginia
Date Reviewed: April 6, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Waller Mill (Dogwood Trail) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | All About Bikes | | Strengths: | Solid Frame and Great componets for the Price. Overall its very light and the Rolf rims look and preform awesome!!! | | Weaknesses: | The Bontrager seat is a little on the firm side, but nothing major to complain about. Additionally, the tread on the tires seems a little soft and is wearing down quickly. | | Similar Products Used: | GT, Giant and KHS | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | The 2001 TREK 8000 is a great bike. I looked at the Giant XTC SE2, Specialized Rockhopper FSC Comp and a few others but for the money nothing beat the Trek 8000. I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a quality hardtail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rodolfo Pena
a Cross Country Rider
from Monterrey, N.L. Mexico
Date Reviewed: April 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chipinque | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1070.00 | | Purchased At: | Pro Bike | | Strengths: | The Rolf wheels are very good, the frame is light and resistant, good looking too. | | Weaknesses: | Seat sucks(replaced), tires slippery on the trail (as they get worn their performance improves a little bit), the brakes not good and the brake shoes are really bad quality compared to the quality and price of the bike , I mean, if they put better brake shoes to the brakes, how much would it increase the cost, not much I think. Same thing with that horrible seat.
judy squeeks, very noisy. | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh 5000 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Generally the bike is great, after one year of using it, I can only complain of what I complained in my first review one year ago but after this year I can tell you , I have punished this bike on the down hill so much and have not had any repair or mantainance on it, the thing is working good and Rolf wheels have not bent even a little. The frame is bent because of a rock hit going down, but no major damage. The Judy fork steel squeeking, probably will squeek forever, I really dont mind.
Goog bike, I personally think the 2002 got more marketable and even is expensive,components like wheels are not as good as the 2001, also the paint job is far , far much better on the 2001 model. If I had to choose between a used 2001 and a used 2002 I would go for the 2001. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russell
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta,GA
Date Reviewed: March 31, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Bull Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Atlanta Cyclng | | Strengths: | Frame, Fork, and Wheelset | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager, Bontrager, and Bontrager. Also the tire treads are not good for heavy mud. | | Similar Products Used: | 2000 Trek 8000, Specialized Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | Stock, with Shimano XT crankset, XTR rear derailleur Time ATAC pedals and Tec bar ends. | | Bottom Line: | The Bontrager components keep this bike from being the best value in the country. They must be replaced immediately. Also, the frame creaks a lot and the rear hub is noisy, but the sounds don't seem to effect performance.
I should mention that I'm a large rider (6'2, 225lbs), so perhaps some smaller guys would not have the same problems I faced.
I purchased a Trek 8000 in 2000 as my first serious mountainbike after 2 years of riding a steel frame. Loved everything about that bike and never had a single problem with it. Would have ridden it for years and never traded it even if I upgraded to a better bike.
It was stolen.
So, insurance company agreed to buy me a brand new 2001 Trek 8000. Sounds like a great deal - I pay my deductible and get a brand new bike.
Well, first time out the chain bent the middle chain ring while shifting to the granny gear. LBS replaced it. Second time out shifting was iffy, at best, and I was getting an unacceptable amount of chain suck. The third time out I was still getting annoying chainsuck, and I noticed that the new middle chain ring was slightly warped. Before I could finish my ride, I got chainsuck while going from a steep downhill to a slight climb at high speed, and the chain literally folded my rear derailleur in half. I managed to grab a tree to keep from killing myself, and then I had to walk 5 miles back to my Jeep.
The LBS replaced the crankset with Shimano XT. They also gave me a deal to replace the rear derailleur with XTR ($25).
The new drivetrain has worked reasonably well, although shifting always seems to be a little off even though I adjust it regularly. I threw a spoke once for no noticeable reason, but I figure that will happen with such light wheels.
Also, I like the Bontrager seat a lot of folks are complaining about.
With the improved drivetrain, you would be hard-pressed to find a better hardtail for the money. I'm giving this bike a 4, even though my early drivetrain experience was stressful. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Ringwood | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | Ski Barn | | Strengths: | Value, light weight, all-round good components, Rolf wheels look cool! | | Weaknesses: | Cranks, tires, handle bars good, but not the best... | | Similar Products Used: | tried out Trek Fuel 90, Cannondale F600, Gary Fisher | | Bike Setup: | pretty much stock | | Bottom Line: | Love this bike, the overall quality and excellent frame weight, for the price can't really be beat. I ride this bike pretty hard 1-2 a week and probably give it less than adequate care afterwords. So far no problems, this bike takes the abuse, and rewards you for pushing your limits. I can't believe some of the climbs/obstacles I've tackled on this bike. Honestly, the cranks and tires are not great but like I say so far no problems and I will probably only upgrade when they can't be used anymore. You can't really go wrong with this one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from Newton, Iowa, USA
Date Reviewed: March 5, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Nature overlook | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Iowa Bike and Fittness (employee price) | | Strengths: | light, fast, all around an awesome bike! I take mine through hell and back, it has taken everything the trails can throw at it. The wheels are great...light and fast | | Weaknesses: | rapid fire shifters | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Big Sur, Paragon | | Bike Setup: | I put attack grip shifters and new brake levers on the thing 'cause I can't stand the rapid fire...too slow. But other than that...factory components. | | Bottom Line: | The thing climbs like a dream and is very light..you can't beat it. The 2001 paint job looks great but the 2002 sucks. The 8000 is a very versitile bike...it can take whatever you throw at it. Hardtail lovers, this is your bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Garrick
a
from Hatteras , NC. USA
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | trail of tears | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Island Cycles Avon NC (employee price) | | Strengths: | Good value, great feel, relatively light | | Weaknesses: | Handlebars were too wide cut 1 1/2" off each side. The grips sucked. I slipped off and almost made myself into a unick, switched to Yeti's and have'nt had a problem since. The front end seems to plow through corners. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500, 7000, stp400 | | Bike Setup: | Switched to xt front derailleur. Changed the grips to Yeti. Got rid of the Bontrager saddle for a Selle Italia ti. | | Bottom Line: | I think this bike rocks. It take all the punishment I throw at it. Solid performer, can't complain. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rafiki
a Racer
from Canada
Date Reviewed: December 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | the one I haven't ridden | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Looks that could kill, solid components, good frame, not unreasonable price, multi-purpose | | Weaknesses: | bonty chainrings, idiots who think that you've lost spokes, tyres weren't ideal for the area i ride in | | Similar Products Used: | 98 Norco Sasquatch (old bike), 01 Rocky Elevation (brother's), 01 Rocky Element Race (dad's), tons of others borrowed from race/ride buddies | | Bike Setup: | Stock cept for xtr v-brakes, RaceFace Next cranks and rings | | Bottom Line: | Cash in the rings as soon as you buy the bike and spend the money on getting some good craks (Truvativ or RaceFace). I folded my middle chainring in the second kilometer of my first race on the bike and had to race the next 98 kilometers in my big ring. The SD3's are a good, but not powerful enough so if you have the chance, get them upgraded to at least the LX level, you won't regret it. The bars were a bit wide for me when I got them, I cut them down a centimeter on each side and started crashing a lot less. The fork made a really annoying clicking sound when it was pumped, but my lbs was really good and put a boot over the spring in about ten minutes.
Otherwise, the bike is amazing, the fork can be a bit of a performance to adjust, but youll learn from practice. This thing handles small to medium drops well, but the big ones can be a little stiff on the landing (duh, its a hardtail). I've borrowed a RockShox seatpost for a few of my epics cuz otherwise I start to go numb.
Get this bike if you are on a bit of a budget but want a bike that you can ride without worrying about it falling to pieces. Racers might want to upgrade to a better fork and some lighter components but the bike works perfectly for me as it is set up.
One final thing: The Deore and LX stuff performs just as well as XT stuff with only a few grams difference. The names shouldn't matter, I mean when you're burning it up some massive hill or just having fun, the tiny little letters on your front derailleur aren't going to matter. Just get out and ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Hillside, IL
Date Reviewed: December 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere with hills and dirt | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | American Bicycle and Fitness | | Strengths: | This is a nice Bike. Everything about it is great. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Tried comparable Specialized, Gary Fisher, and Schwinn Bikes
Also tested Trek 6700 this year and Trek 7000 laast year | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for peddles | | Bottom Line: | Needless to say, I like this bike. I'm 50 and just getting into mountain biking. I have been involved in endurance athletics most of my life, but foot and leg problems have put an end to running. A bit insular by nature, the ability to go wherever I want on a mountain bike is appealing. I am a novice to the discipline, and bought all the bike I could afford. I have ridden it in places from the Illinois Prairie path to old logging and access roads in Superior National Forest. I have raced twice(once hot and dry, the other pouring rain and mud up to 8 inches deep) and had a ball.
I find no faults with the bike. It has done what it was supposed to do. Perhaps upgrades can make it better, but I have had no problems at all, with peak riding at over 100 miles per week. It has responded well to all conditions. A great bike for cross country and dirt trails and withstood the beating on those Minnesota trails. As I gather more experience, perhaps upgrades are in future. If the snow and ice ever reach N. Illinois it will probably also turn into my commuter bike. AS for now, a great ride for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO USA
Date Reviewed: November 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Castlewood, Berryman, Cliff Cave | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Trek Employee Purchase | | Strengths: | Super lightweight frame. Paint job is stunning. Decent Judy SL fork. LX Shifters, Hayes hydraulic disc brakes, XT rear der. Rolf Dolomite Disc wheels. Great handling geometry. Lifetime frame warranty | | Weaknesses: | Deore Front der. Rolf sealed hubs are a little sketchy! | | Similar Products Used: | Marin 5.0 F/S | | Bike Setup: | LX crank with XT Bottom Bracket. Waiting on my Chris King Headset and XTR front der. | | Bottom Line: | You can't find a bike with the level of equipment this one has for a better price. The bike is even more rock solid for '02!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gael Hagan
a Racer
from Centinnial Colorado, USA
Date Reviewed: November 21, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Wherever im riding at the time | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheat Ridge Cyclery | | Strengths: | Wow, where to begin. The frame, The judy sl fork, the wheels arent too shabby (though semi heavy) | | Weaknesses: | well, the brakes loose their sharpness after a while, the front derailleur sucks, handle bar is too wide for my liking, Bontrager seat hurts the ass after a semi long ride. Brake levers are weak and dont provide enough torque for me. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stump Jumper M4 comp, Gary Ficher Paragon (ecch!) | | Bike Setup: | Pretty much gutted the thing. New derailleurs ( front and back are XTR) brakes i replaced with avid ti's (oh joy!) XTR shifters and brake levers (tourque like a mother****** :) Easton ct2, race face good and evil grips, and cables upgraded to teflon coating | | Bottom Line: | Kick ass bike for the money, Frame fully race worthy. And worth putting money into it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matty
a Cross Country Rider
from Upstate NY
Date Reviewed: November 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Slickrock in Tennessee, Chenango Valley State Park here locally | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Garage Inc. in Bloomington, IN | | Strengths: | The Rolf wheelset, paint scheme, climbing ability, for the $money$ this bike rules with the exception of . . . | | Weaknesses: | . . the Deore front derailleur and the bontrager components, oh yeah the tires they are good on the hard stuff but thats about it . . Matty =) | | Similar Products Used: | My previous Trek 830 that i purchased in '96 at Scott's bike shop in Cleveland TN, I recommend visiting they ll show you a great time. | | Bike Setup: | Stock with exception of bar ends and xt front derailleur, tires are next, but that'll be next season. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike for the money with a few minor upgrades this can be a 5 flamin' chilis ALL AROUND, I ve had a great time on this bike, plan on riding it for a while or till I break it and move on to something with a full suspension. This bike would be ideal for the $1000 budget, with a couple extra bucks going towards at least an XT front derailleur (makes a HUGE difference). Excellent for those who are looking to get into riding for the first time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Novato, Ca.
Date Reviewed: November 5, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | See Below | | Bottom Line: | As a follow-up to the review I posted on 7/11/01, I continued to experience "slippage" in the middle chainring and later noticed that the small chainring was bent, but not the large one, which would indicate to me that this was not due to hitting a rock, etc. I called Trek and again they offered to replace the two smaller chainrings immediately. My feel is that the Bontrager Comp crank is nothing to write home about, and my feeling was confirmed reading the reviews of the Fisher Paragon and Trek Fuel 90, which also have the same Bontrager Crank.
When the crank finally goes, I'll get an LX or XT. But for now, the drivetrain os operating perfectly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
duane
a Downhiller
from mitchellville,md
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | bike doc annapolis | | Strengths: | SLR frame kicks asss-phalt! Paint job rocks too. Judy SL fork is solid and the ROLF Sat's are sikkk! The only thing slacking on this bike is the stone-hard Bont. saddle which hurts like hell. argghh. I'll probably swap the Jones wheels as well...haven't really gotten the chance to punish them yet. | | Weaknesses: | Judy's are a little squeaky at first, and the rear XT Der. rattles a little at first...esp in high gears. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized 01 StumpJmp M4, Klein 2001 Pulse II,Gary Fisher 2001 Paragon | | Bike Setup: | Everything stock so far. | | Bottom Line: | Dude. If you have a G to spend on a bike....there's no question. The TREK is THE Corvette C5 of mtn bikes! After settling on a Spec.StmpJmp M4 Comp, glad that I was redirected by a friend to become a Trekianite! Three words for ya: Rolf, JudySL, Deore XT SGS!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad
a Weekend Warrior
from Naperville, IL USA
Date Reviewed: October 8, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Spokes in Wheaton, IL | | Strengths: | Frame, Rolf Wheels | | Weaknesses: | Front Derailer | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper Comp FS | | Bike Setup: | XTR: front/rear derailer, shifters/brakes, V-brakes
Race face post/grips, Easton Monkey lite bar and Mag Stem. | | Bottom Line: | After 6 months of riding this thing I can say that I really love it. Broke the front derailer after about a month of heavy use. The crank set sucks the chain sometimes but not often. Broke one of the brake levers so they were changed. The flat bar made my back hurt so I got a riser.
The frame is great it fits my body awesome. Buy this bike if you have the $1000 to spend, nothing better in the price range. Just replace the Bontrager crap in time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
G Caballero
a Weekend Warrior
from Northewrn California
Date Reviewed: October 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Dirt | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | funsport bikes | | Strengths: | Excellent componentry, sweet sweet rolf DOLOMITE wheels, excellent Trek warranty. HAYES HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKES! And the judy sl fork is butter smooth | | Weaknesses: | High Price, Kinda cheesy paint, but who cares? Certainly not I :0_) Oh yeah, the seat is a litle uncomfortable | | Similar Products Used: | Does a wal-mart bought huffy count as a bike? | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded cassette, front and rear derailleur, shifters all to xtr. Upgraded crank to Shimano Hollowtech-super sweet crank! Carbon tech barends, did I mention the HAYES hydraulic disc brakes? | | Bottom Line: | This is a great starter bike for anyone who is serious about getting into riding. It has a good frameset, a great warranty, and with the upgrade to xtr, the shifting couldn't be smoother, I test rode alot of bikes, but none offered what the 8000 disc offered in the same price range. the bikes expensive, but it's worth every penny when you're depending on your bike to get you up that big bad mountain. Bottom line, bought it for the #WOW#, but will keep it for the reliability, parts selection, ease of use. TREK ALL THE WAY! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Raleigh,N.C.
Date Reviewed: September 24, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Post | | Strengths: | SLR Frame, Rolf wheels, light for the price. | | Weaknesses: | Judy works pretty well but I think that I might upgrade to a Sid. The front deralieur is constantly moving around which causes the chain to rub. | | Similar Products Used: | Had an old 8000 from the early 90s when it was the best bike trek made. It finally died. So sad. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for the addition of some oclv carbon bar ends. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great for the price you pay. Far better than the 6700 or 7000 in every way. The bike is light but I think the upgrade to a sid fork would put this bike on a much higher level. The front deralieur and crank set are a little sketchy at times. The front deralieur won't stay where I adjust it and the crank has excessive flex under hard pedaling. The clipless pedals work well except for one day when the bolt came out of one side of my left pedal during a fairly techincal bit of singletrack and I could only clip in on one side. That sucked. The ride can be a bit bumpy over a lot of roots but that is to be expected for a hardtail aluminum bike. Invest in some good gloves. Overall this bike is great because of the frame quality. It is worthy of a lot of upgrades. You can't beat this package for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Geoff Mills
a Weekend Warrior
from unionville, CT, USA
Date Reviewed: September 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | the ones right near my house | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Cutting Edge Bike | | Strengths: | Awesome Paint jop, you could climb it to the summit of everest if u had to, rear xt shimano derailer(works and its cheap), fairly light( plan to upgrade to better parts), Ac Jones tires are alright they work well on rocky paths and some what work in sand. The 2001 Judy Sl works well just a little squeeky, gets a little annoying after a while. | | Weaknesses: | Bontragger crank set...its sucks 3rd time out the chain got sucked between the 2nd and 3rd chain ring and bent the 2nd chain ring...upgrade, upgrade, upgrade. Shimano front derailer is very loud and feels like its gonna brake very every time out even though its and xt and not an lx. The bike came stock with an lx front but my bike shop through on the xt for nothing...but its still sucks.Can anyone recommend a good front derailer. The avid single digit three v-brakes are kinda soft and dont have much stoping power. | | Similar Products Used: | notta much just some old crappy mongoose | | Bike Setup: | everything stock except xt front Derailer, Speacialized A1 dirt rodz. | | Bottom Line: | Its really my first quality xc mtn bike...its good to start out. It has an awesome frame. Bontragger parts are ok except for the crankset which sucks, 9 speed chain rings are a little flimsy. over all its a great bike right out of the box. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from NYC
Date Reviewed: September 15, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Killington | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | First Stop Bike Shop | | Strengths: | great SLR frame! Very Light. the Judy SL is a great fork, Very smooth and fairly light (3.6 lb) Rolf wheels are great and look sick becuase of the twin spokes design. Overall spec is very good. This bike can go up the mountain like a raped ape! It can fly down single track and is a blast to ride!!! | | Weaknesses: | Nothing Major. Tires are not the best, but still good in all around conditions. the front der. is no good. when going down rocky work road the chain will slip from the middle chain ring to the lower, and then off if you go over rocky sections without pedaling. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | GO GET THIS BIKE!!! IT IS THE BEST FOR 1000 CLAMS!! 5 CHILIS FOR THIS HARDTAIL ROCKET!!!
CHECK OUT THE 2002 GIANT AC BIKES!!!!
THEY ROCK!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Punk
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakville, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Kelso | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | CyclePath | | Strengths: | It climbs like a goat | | Weaknesses: | I can't think of one. Would have like to see a bomber as a fork | | Similar Products Used: | Raliegh m8000 | | Bike Setup: | Stock but Judy Race | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the best bang for the buck on the market in my mind. Light, race ready. If you are thinking about racing this bike is for you I love it like a son. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karl
a Weekend Warrior
from SW Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 13, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Fanshawe Lake | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$920.00 | | Strengths: | Frame is in it for the long run, Rolf wheels, Judy SL, climbing ability, rips in the turns, and is a single track demon! Weight is good for a bike in this price range. | | Weaknesses: | My shock squeeks until compressed a couple of times to get the oil circulated. Will fix it when I flush 'n fill the fork oil later this summer. Shock should really come with fork boots. | | Similar Products Used: | Mid-90's Giant ATX760 that I've been using up to now, Cannondale F600 (go see my review of it), drove all the local shops nuts trying to find the right bike for myself. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except barends are on their way. | | Bottom Line: | I read on this board that the stock tires, seat and front deuraller need to be replaced, and the sooner the better, but for me this thing just plain works right out of the box. I find the seat comfy enough for 3+ hour rides, the gears shift each and every time without complaint and I find the tires great. I haven't had it in miles and miles of mud, but around here you splash through streams and mud and the stock rubber hasn't surprised me yet.
Size wise this bike seems to be made just for me. I've got much longer than average legs and had a terrible time finding something that fit right without asking for post and stem swaps, but this bike did. Cosmetically this bike looks good with the Rolf wheels complementing the frame. I like the red of the Judy as well.
I ride strickly XC and this bike was born and bred for singletrack. Feed it a diet of some roots, rocks, ruts and climbs and it's a happy little fella. Speaking of climbs I'm constantly amazed at how well it climbs - it climbs like a scalded cat, it climbs like a monkey going up a tree, damn it just climbs like a climbing thing should climb. Get the point? This is just as much a statement at how poor my old bike climbed as to how well the 8000 is. I've read this bike is (entry level) race ready right from the word go and I can believe it - I can't forsee myself ever being better than this bike is capable. Trek obviously did their homework with this bike and it shows, it's a great ride! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Oakville, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 13, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1499.00 | | Purchased At: | Skiis & Bikes | | Strengths: | Very light strong frame, wicked paint job | | Weaknesses: | none right now | | Similar Products Used: | n/a | | Bike Setup: | all original, i see myself upgrading front derailleur to XT
in a near future | | Bottom Line: | I tried few bikes in this price range and trek felt like it
was made for me, got to run going biking ;) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Porky
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: August 12, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Treknology | | Strengths: | Beautiful Frame, Nice Judy SL | | Weaknesses: | Tyres, Drive train, rolf satelite | | Similar Products Used: | GT Agressor | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for dolomite rear rim and panaracer xc pro rear | | Bottom Line: | blew the rear rim after hitting a major rut. killing rolf wheels are expensive. Jones suck majorly. Overal a good bike XT rear d sketchy and hard to tune. Mabe I sck at tuuning | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael P
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | bloomington ferry trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Penn Cycle | | Strengths: | Out of the box ready. | | Weaknesses: | Front derailleur is unacceptable. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized M2, Specialized M4, Specialized XC, Cannondale F900, Fisher Suger2 | | Bike Setup: | Do not leave the shop without upgrading the front derailleur for XT. It's only a $10 exchange so an easy fix. Otherwise stock except for personal preferences (1) Time ATAC pedals and (2) Greg Lemond split seat. | | Bottom Line: | You obviously get what you pay for. After reading specs here (I love this sight so much!) and in the mags, I set my sights on a $1000 XC bike that will fit my needs. I'm riding trails with the typical midwest roots, ruts, some longer hard pack trails with intermittent tight swithbacks, some loose sand and gravel, moderate hills and descents, as well as, various surprises =). I'm a roadie at heart so the trails are mostly for fun and weekend adventures.
Sure I could have spent another $600-900 for a 5 star hardtail (<24 lbs and XRT). Heck, even up the ante from there and you can get the best FS bikes on the planet. However, for my wallet, skills, and needs, the Trek 8000 delivers right out of the box. A five flame value and four flame overall.
Specifics: I like the frame. Light enough, geometry is good, great color scheme and finish. A keeper and worth upgrading from.
I like the front suspension. Judy is all right by me =) I suppose the SID air suspension is lighter but I get good results with Judy and see no near term upgrades.
I like the wheelset. They spin well, look cool, and function is supposed to be good; long term true is my hope. The Bontrager Jones tires hook up well in all but the deepest sand traps and mud. No upgrades planned here.
As for the drivetrain, IMO Shimano quality is not what it used to be. I have an old "urban beast" with a basic Shimano Altus that works as well as the new XT. Shimano XT does shift well enough, but under pressure (eg., shifting while going up hill) it gets sketchy. This is supposed to be their silver medal drivetrain and I would expect better performance. I can possibly see an XRT rear derailleur upgrade in this bikes future.
So that's it. For the midwest weekend warrior looking for some fun XC adventure riding, this bike hooks up right out of the box. Remember to exchange the front derailleur before you leave the LBS and it's ready to rock.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stosh Zamonsky
a Cross Country Rider
from NY
Date Reviewed: July 25, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | MTA (Stewart Buffer Zone) | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel & Heel | | Strengths: | The frame lite and stiff, shock rocks or is it rock shock......, rims, bottle holder screws, brakes I can't really complain about either.
(that part about the screws was a joke) | | Weaknesses: | Obviously if you read the Strengths first you noticed I omitted a few things. One major thing being the front deraillure. I can't get this thing to shift properly for my life. I've had it to the shop twice to fix it and now the back is giving me problems (I think I just have to tighten the wires). But I'm really upset that the front has given me so many problems.
- also the Bontager tires came off(to be replaced by yours truly) after a few rides. They had next to NO grip in loose gravel. | | Similar Products Used: | 3 year old neighbors tricycle, ok well they weighed about the same. | | Bike Setup: | Pretty stock, THE front fender, Panaracer XC pro tires. | | Bottom Line: | Bike ROCKS!!!!!
For the money nobody puts out a complete deal like TREK. They match the frame to the components better then any company I know. You look the the bikes with great frames you get junky components with them. Trek knows that if you are going to spend 400 bucks the components should be only as good as the frame and so on.
But again, Tires and Front Derailleur gotta go!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pennywise Strait Ahead
a Weekend Warrior
from Kalamazoo, MI
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Fort Custer | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | via Steve Tilford | | Strengths: | The thing that first attracted me to this bike was the paint job. I absolutly love it. RockShox Judy is a great fork. Very Light and it's a race frame so it's worthy of upgrades of any kind. Rolf rims kick ass and look sweet. | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager tires kinda suck and i think the handle bars are a little too wide for me. Front derailer is only Deore so that's pry going to be the first upgrade along with new tires. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500, Schwinn Moab 3 | | Bike Setup: | All stock as of now! | | Bottom Line: | Awesome bike in my opinion. I got an awesome deal on the whole thing. I can really fly on this bike. I love this bike. I wash it, degrease it, and relube it after almost every ride and everytime i go out it's like riding on a brand new bike. Paint job is on of the best i've seen. Recommend to anyone willing to spend about 1000 bucks on a bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
shawn fowler
a Cross Country Rider
from flagstaff, arizona
Date Reviewed: July 15, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Loose Spoke | | Strengths: | This is a light ass bike I love the Rolf wheels This is a bike that is good enough stock to race It eats up the hills and does a hell of a job sucking up the bumps Its a hell of a bike for the money | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager Components, they suck ass!!!!! i bent the crap out of the crank | | Similar Products Used: | K2 Razorback, Voodoo, Marin, Specialized | | Bike Setup: | Working on taking all the Bontrager crap off of it | | Bottom Line: | This bike is one of the best bikes for the money Just lose the Bontrager crap | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Novato, Ca.
Date Reviewed: July 11, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Annadel,Tahoe Area, China Camp | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Overall spec and weight-25 lbs. | | Weaknesses: | I had some trouble with the middle chainring slipping cogs, slipping to the small chainring, or the chain coming off altogether. I contacted Trek and they immediately sent a shorter BB to the shop to install on warranty, no questions asked. It's a lot better now, but I want to wait a bit longer before concluding that the problem has been solved. | | Similar Products Used: | I also looked at Gary Fisher and Giant bikes in this price range, but also point out that I got the Trek for $150 off MSRP. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I really like the bike. It replaced an entry level Giant FS/XC bike (ATX-970) and I toiled a long time over Dual or a Hardtail. My final decision for the hardtail was based on my desire for lighter weight and higher quality spec. Yeah, I miss the FS at times and notice myself out of the seat more, but the difference in weight is amazing from 30 to 25 pounds on the climbs, which are typically 600-1500'. I have also noticed that the bike just seems to "want to go" much more than my previous bike, and I find myself accellerating on some climbs in spots where I never did on the FS/XC. I'm not a racer but this bike just seems fast. The fork (Judy SL) works well, and Ilove the Rolf wheels. To buy an FS/XC bike at 25 pounds and similar spec would have cost twice the price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rodolfo Peña
a Cross Country Rider
from Monterrey, N.L. México
Date Reviewed: July 3, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Chipinque Park at "M" mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1070.00 | | Purchased At: | Pro Bike Shop at Laredo Tx. | | Strengths: | The frame is great, very light and the paint job looks nice.
Rolf wheels are very light and so far very strong.
The Judy forks looks very good | | Weaknesses: | The Bontrager tires are not good, they don´t stick very well to the trail, specially when pedaling up on the hill.
The steering bar is too long,(had to cut 1 1/2" from each side)for more balance control.
The rear xt deralleur bangs on the frame when going down hill too rough
So far it´s all I can complain of. | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh MT-500 model 1995 | | Bike Setup: | air and oil RoxShox,Continental tires ,,regular stock stuff | | Bottom Line: | So far I think the product is fine, i am happy with the bike. It is my first time using clip pedals and they are very forgiving, they detach very easily and very quick yet they´re safe . The judy fork is very good compared to my old rox shox (raleigh 500 1995 model) feels very soft and very good looking on the bike.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zac
a Cross Country Rider
from Cleveland,TN,USA
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | slick rock | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Scott s Bicycles | | Strengths: | Frame,components. It is superlight and it can fly. | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager tires.I also recommend getting rid of the flat bar.The fork is great but i only weigh 85 pounds and i bottomed out the shock on a jump.I had it switched to 100mm of travel and now it feels funny.Finnaly the frame is strictly xc.This is probably only my problem though because i like to do wheelie drops and big jumps and u could not change this bike to a freeride bike because of the frame. | | Similar Products Used: | Gt rebound 2000 model was previous bike. | | Bike Setup: | Michelin comp s tires, syncross riser bar,judy set to 100 mm, the rest stock. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike to buy. It is very race ready.Besides tires, eveything else works great. Best bike in its price range. Ive had for 6 months and still nothing has broken.Recommended for any xc riders.(not recommended for anything else) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anthony
a Cross Country Rider
from Sault, MI. USA
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Marquette County | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Pro Sports | | Strengths: | Frame and fork combo and I love the Rolf wheels. Very nice looking paint job. | | Weaknesses: | Handlebars and stem, didn't care for the tires | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500, tested most everything in the same price range. | | Bike Setup: | Stock with the exception of a Thompson stem, Sun handlebar, Oury grips, and IRC Mythos tires. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike !!! Compared to the 6500 it's a dream. I looked at everything in the $1000.00 price range and everything pointed back to the 8000. My local shop is wonderful to work with (plus they are my sponsor). I will change a few things in the future, like the front derailleur, and add a suspension post, other than that the bike is excellent !!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BIG AL
a Cross Country Rider
from MN
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | THE BARN | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1499.00 | | Strengths: | THE FRAME, AND THE TIRES BONTRAGER ROCKS, HAYES HYDRA. RULES AS AN ADD ON, I HIGHLY RECCOMEND THE UPGRADE FOR 300 CLAMS | | Weaknesses: | A BIT ON THE HEAVY SIDE WITH THE LOWER END COMPONENTS,UPGRADE THE DEORE TO XT. THE GRIPS ARE HARD TO OTHERWISE PERFECT! | | Similar Products Used: | CANNONDALE F600, XTCSE1, STUMPJUMER | | Bike Setup: | ONLY THING I CHANGED WAS THE DEORE AND THE GRIPS TO YETTI! | | Bottom Line: | ..I CRY WITH JOY EVERY TIME I RIDE THIS BEAST! cant beat the $$$! dont go to the 8500, the frame is the same! you just get a sid and XT, 8000 is a much better deal! Plus you get the satifaction of havin you bike build by some good old american guys, not some Tiawainian import. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Woody
a
from Clarksville, TN, USA
Date Reviewed: June 7, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Bottom Line: | Followup: I meant Rolf wheels NOT Bontrager. So much Bonty stuff on the bike I got carried away typing.... | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Woody Groton
a Racer
from Clarksville, TN, USA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The one I'm riding at the time... | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1049.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikes and Moore (http://www.bikesandmoore.com) | | Strengths: | Review is for standard 8000. Good all around hard tail. I love the geometry. Decent parts mix. Climbs like a mountain goat. Raceable out of the box. Love the Bontrager wheels. Good value. | | Weaknesses: | Stiff (or course it is, it's an aluminum hard tail). Some low end parts: Deore front deraileur/cassette. Bontrager cranks and LX shifters wore out fairly quickly. | | Similar Products Used: | Old Paramount Chromo hardtail, Specialized Stumpjumper (tested), Cannondale F600 (tested). | | Bike Setup: | Let's see: RockShox Sid SL fork, Answer Hyperlite bar, XTR rear deraileur, XT shifters/front deraileur/cassette/cranks, Michelin Wildgripper Comp S tires, USE XCR shokpost, Selle Italia Flite Trans Am saddle. Shorty bar ends. Yeti Hard Corps grips. Cat Eye computer. | | Bottom Line: | Good all around hard tail. I had been out of serious mountain biking for several years and got back in to it last Fall and decided to get a new bike to replace my ancient Paramount. I did quite a bit of research and test riding and went with the Trek over the Stumpjumper and the Cannondale. The Trek was in my budget of around $1000.
The bike is beginner and sport class race ready out of the box. It is also a decent trail bike. The aluminum frame is a little on the stiff side which is why I eventually added the shokpost.
The bike handles great. It is Trek's race proven geometry and is at home on climbs, descents, and tight twisty single track.
The original parts mix is decent but a little on the low end in some parts. The original weight was just over 26 lbs. The Deore front deraileur broke a month after I bought it so I upgraded to XT front. After 7 months of hard riding including some racing and muddy winter rides the Bontrager cranks and LX shifters pretty much wore out. I upgraded the drive train to pretty much XT with an XTR rear deraileur. The Judy SL is a great fork but it's heavy at almost 4 lbs. I upgraded to a Sid SL to lose almost 2 pounds and have the luxury of a lockout. Really helps on road training rides and long uphills.
If I had to do it all over again I'd buy the 8500 so I'd save a lot on the upgrades I did (8500 is mostly XT with a Sid XC fork and better wheels) or I'd go with a Fuel to take advantage of the dual suspension. If you're not planning on racing and want a good all around hard tail then save the $400 and go with the 8000.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad
a Weekend Warrior
from Naperville, IL
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Spokes, Wheaton, IL | | Strengths: | No better bike for the $$$ | | Weaknesses: | Front Derailer | | Similar Products Used: | Coming off a Specialized Rock Hopper Comp FS, Tried GT, Homegrown, and Fisher | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I have been riding this bike for about 3 weeks now. And I love it. It really moves on the flat lands around here. The front derailer didn't work to well after the first 2 hard rides. Took it back to the shop adjusted the cables, and it seems to be OK now. That will be the first upgrade. I love the look of the bike. The Rolf wheels are real light and very aggressive looking. They seem to be holding true after hitting some pretty rough rocks, ruts etc. Love the bike so far. Will post an update after I break some stuff. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a
from Tampa, FL
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | grand canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Dud Thames Bike shop | | Strengths: | Light frame, great shock, climbs like nothing else, accelerates quickly, cool lookin wheels and plain sporty. | | Weaknesses: | Front der shifts funky. Bike causees severe addiction to fast singletrack. The AC jones tires are great on hard pack rolling and hold a corner predictably, but fill w/ mud QUICK | | Similar Products Used: | tried the gary fisher, khs, giant. all in the same price range | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Easton CT2. Will continue to upgrade as cash flow allows and things wear out/break | | Bottom Line: | I would recommend this bike to anyony looking for a hardtail in this price range. Great frame that begs to have its components upgraded, though its parts spec is more than satisfactory. Swapped out thte heavy alum Bonty flat bar for the light weight and damping effect of the CT2 bar. Bike comes w/ the best judy to date, adjustable very nice. Climbs like a raped ape, super responsive, Bottom line, this bike rocks! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
greg jensen
a Cross Country Rider
from waco, texas
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | california 56, cameron park, waco | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1150.00 | | Purchased At: | Whooley G's in Longview, Texas | | Strengths: | Simply the best bike for the money that you can get | | Weaknesses: | riding through the Little Blakely trail in Arkansas the aluminum was transferring all the little shocks right into my elbows, purchased an Easton Carbon Fiber Monkeylite Riser bar and the problem is flat gone. I cant say enough about that handle bar... | | Similar Products Used: | none, first mountain bike | | Bike Setup: | Everything is stock except the handle bar Easton Monkeylite Riser 1 in. | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line is that this is my first bike so take this with a grain of salt, Ive been riding fairly intensly for the past 8 months with it. This bike has made me fall in love with mountain biking. I just keep everything lubed and its like taking it out for the first time everytime I go out. Its pretty light also. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edward
a Cross Country Rider
from Shelby Twp., MI, USA
Date Reviewed: May 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Stony Creek Metropark | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Strengths: | Excellent frame strength, weight, components,paint, and everything else | | Weaknesses: | I bent the middle chainring the 4th time out, but bontrager replaced it with a better lazer-etched aluminum one free of charge. The Bonty seatpost bent but after I knocked it pretty hard. | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Mantra Comp, Schwinn GSX | | Bike Setup: | XTR v-brakes, thomson seat post, everything else stock | | Bottom Line: | Excellent price range for any level of biker up to racer. Trek has excellent customer support and a great reputation. If there is a problem they will fix it if you bring it to their attention. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek Whisenhunt
a Cross Country Rider
from Springfield, SC, USA
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1039.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Center | | Strengths: | Great Fork
Great Frame | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager Components
Shimano Deore Components | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded to all XT Drive train components. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike in December. I love it. It fits me like a glove. I weight 220lbs so I do punish the bike. I ride singletrack and that is what this bike was made for. The frame is noticeably light and strong. Easy bike to maneuver in extremely fast and slow conditions. The component package has a few issues. I will start with the good. Great fork. The Rock Shok Judy SL is a superb fork. It is very important to tune it for your weight though. Check that the right oil and spring is in it. The rear XT derailleur flows like water. Now other issues; I love the Satellite Rolf wheels, but last week I noticed a side to side movement in the rear hub, so I brought it to the shop for adjustment and they said they had to order a replacement. What happen? I don’t know. The Crank, chain and front derailleur; since the first day I road the bike the front has never shifted right. I would take the bike to get tuned and still not right, then during my 4th ride I was shifting down from the 2nd gear and the chain folded the middle ring down to the 1st ring, this also bent the chain. Back to the shop. They told me that Shimano will not guarantee their system to work unless it has all Shimano parts. Well when the bike was picked up 2 weeks later it had all Shimano parts on it at Treks expense. Now the front flows like water. I did replace the seat with a Body Geometry. I love the Bontrager Jones AC tires. They are light and grip great in all but heavy mud. What I don’t understand is Trek sells this bike as a race ready bike but puts Deore parts on it. I guess that is what the 8500 is for. I am lucky to have a great bike shop that works with me (The Cycle Center in Columbia, SC) and understands my needs. Bottom line. With a few upgrades to XT or XTR level components, this will be an A+ race ready bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
r w
a Weekend Warrior
from baltimore, md, usa
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Loch Raven | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Connection | | Strengths: | Judy SL
SLR Frame | | Weaknesses: | For all the name-gamers, the deore FD shifts just like an LX or XT | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpy, Gary Fisher Paragon | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Time ATAC pedals | | Bottom Line: | Great Bike and great buy. The new judy sl and the slr frame sell itself. This bike is light, responsive, and responds to all your commands. the shock, also, is easier for the casual rider to adjust, use, and maintain. i see no complaints about the bike. seats, stems, and shock weight capacities can and should be changed by any viable shop to the rider's liking, so reviewers need not complain about these parts b/c to each his own. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from Waco, Texas, USA
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Colorado, Cameron Park (Waco, TX) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1069.00 | | Purchased At: | Richardson Bikemart | | Strengths: | Light Frame, Great Rolf rims, quality components and AMAZING Judy SL shocks | | Weaknesses: | Seat | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Hardrock Comp, Trek 6000, Trek 7000 | | Bike Setup: | Rolf Satellite wheels, XT rear, LX front, LX shifters, handlebars, stem, crank, etc. are all Bontrager | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a VERY quality bike. I expected a difference from a 6000,7000 to an 8000 but not a major one. I was pleasantly surprised. The frame is extremely light and fast. The Rolf wheels are fast and light as well and look slick. The Rock Shox Judy SL shocks are incredible. They are the smoothest ride ever. You never slow down, feel bumps, or bounce around. The absorb EVERYTHING. The only problem I had was that the Bontrager FS2000 seat is a little uncomfortable mainly because it is hard. I kept my old Specialized Body Geometry MTB version and got them to take it off. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
| |
|
Photo Caption Contest
(sponsored by Maxxis)
|
Enter here
|
|
|
$ 1150.00
