The big 51mm diameter butted downtube is the backbone for our new set of lightweight round tubing with flawless TIG welds throughout. The 71/73degree geometry ensures a balanced, predictable, and agile ride.
We didn't compromise on the finish either. The powder coated epoxy paint finish is flawless, even, and scratch-resistant. Powder coat painting it is also more environmentally friendly!
Submitted by
beston
a Cross Country Rider
from Waterdown, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Squeezer ride
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Durability
Low-Weight!
Price
Good way to get into bike building
Weaknesses:
I'm sure there's better out there, but not at this price.
Doesn't seem to climb as well as some other bikes I've tried.
Not as comfy as full-suspension XC
Similar Products Used:
Brodie Energy, GT Zaskar, Thin Blue Line Hurricane
Bike Setup:
Mix of XT and LX drive train. RS SID Team 80mm (2002), Mavic 221 Wheelset. XT V-Brakes.
Bottom Line:
Good all around frame.
I've been happy to have picked up this frame before it was discontinued. It is really light weight for the price (3.5lb). You'd really have to spend a lot more to beat this frame.
The frame does require an 80mm fork. I tried a 100mm (Manitou Skareb) fork and could not steer straight up modest inclines (you feel like a drunk driver).
It also doesn't seem to be the best climber out there. It does alright, but I always feel like I'm shifting my weight around to try to keep traction to the wheels (More so than the other hardtails I've ridden). This could just be due to the setup(?). The GT I've ridden goes up the same inclines like a billy-goat.
While it is a pretty comfortable bike, it is no where near as compliant as some other Full-suspension XC bikes I've test ridden. This could be due to the SID up front too.
But where it shines...
It's fast. I love passing people on this bike.
The quality. This bike has been ridden hard and has held up just as well as the expensive frames out there.
You get to build it. It's a fun hobby after all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris S
a Cross Country Rider
from Irvine, CA Date Reviewed: October 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
All local Orage County
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Light, stiff, looks, paint/clearcoat, inexpensive
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Kona, Specialized, Orbea
Bike Setup:
O3 Access XCL, 07 Manitou R7 Super with clickIT remote,XTR 952 rear, XT front, XTR STM-952 Brake/Shifter(tuned), FSA Team Carbon Cranks, Rohloff Chain, King headset, FSA OS-115 Stem, FSA K-Force Carbon flatbar, FSA Carbon seatpost, WTB Shadow-V stealth saddle, Ergon grips, Mavic X517, XT hubs, XT cassette, Maxxis tires with stans rim strips
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 03 Access XCL.The newer Access XCL's have different tube butting and cable braze ons, and I will eventually pick one of these up too.I still see the 03 style hanging up at a few Performance shops, who took over Supergo.I bought two of these frames at the same time because they were so cheap.I was going to buy the Kona Kula Deluxe but it was going to be too long of a wait for the new ones to come out in my size and they were out of the current ones, so I thought what the heck the Access is so cheap I'll ride it, wait for the new Kona, then throw it away.Well fast forward three years and I'm still on it :)It rides the same as my other more expensive aluminum hardtail frames of the past with the same geometry.I was actually caught by the looks of this frame at the time, the bright red with nice clear coat and simple decals underneath looked very pleasing to me.The really old Access ALU frames with their funky decals were just really gaudy looking, but the newer frames look waaaay better, and I think the 06 decals look the best yet.It fun to drop others on a climb riding waaay more expensive framesets, and the way I have this built up its definately a conversation starter at the parking lot.Until I move to a carbon frameset (if I do), I will continue to ride these frames, and reccomend them for those on a budget, not on a budget, or that want to be a little different :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Loudon,NH Date Reviewed: August 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Carr Ridge-Bear Brook State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$169.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
This is for the 2006 XCL frame. This frame is super light at 3.7 lbs. The welds are nicely done and the paint is super smooth. I haven't noticed any paint chipping like others have posted here. I've just got the normal scratches and chips you would get with any mountain bike.
I you want a light quality XC racing bike without having to spend $2500 for it, then buy this frame and build it up with some sweet parts. I've got about $1100 in this bike and it weighs in at just over 23 pounds. Try buying that at your LBS for $1100. This bike just rocks and climbs like a goat. I've gotten many comments on how great the bike looks. I've also gotten some snooty looks from some because it isn't a "name" brand. Once I blow by them or drop them on a climb, the look turns to envy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Northern Ca Date Reviewed: August 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Priceis right, weight
Weaknesses:
Finish is not so durable
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale CAAD 4
Bike Setup:
CK-Bontrager Racelite wheels, Mars fork, CK headset, Easton CT2 flat bar, Thomson stem and post, SLK XP saddle, Sram 9.0 SL shifters and deraileur, Paul Love Levers, Avid SD Ti brakes, Coda crankset, Dura Ace BB, Ultegra cassette.
Bottom Line:
Great price on a light hardtail frame. the bike as set up climbs well and handles very good. It goes downhill as well as you would expect a short travel hardtail should. The frame does not feel as stiff as a Cannondale hartail, but what does?
A nice frame that I managed to build up into a bike that weighs just over 22lbs using spare parts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marquis
a Weekend Warrior
from SoCal, USA Date Reviewed: December 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
El Moro Canyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Light, Strong, Cheap, Good geometry, replaceable dropout.
Weaknesses:
Paint? But who cares - it's a mountain bike. I usually can't see the paint through the mud and dust.
Similar Products Used:
Various Specialized, Iron Horse, Schwinn
Bike Setup:
Access frame and an ever-changing cast of components.
Bottom Line:
Great solid, light frame on which to base a fast hardtail build-up. Cheap and so far unbreakable. Nice sensible layout and easily compatible with every component I've added.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from SLC, Utah Date Reviewed: August 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Canyon Rim Trail, Flaming Gorge
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$51.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Light, stiff frame. Very smooth on roads and trails.
Weaknesses:
None yet other than the ugly graphics which I fixed as described below.
Bike Setup:
Access ALU frame, Marzocchi Z1 fork, SRAM x.7 9sp shifters, x.9 rear der, XT front der, Vuelta XRP rims.
Bottom Line:
Nice frame for 51 bones. I had been riding a heavy CrMo for way too long and decided to not sink a ton of bones into a frame that I may or may not like. I am very happy with this frame. I agree the graphics are ugly but $8 on eBay can buy you some nice carbon fiber vinyl graphic sticker that will cover it up nicely. I covered my downtube and top tube up and now it looks sweet, plus it tricks the other guys out thinking it is a carbon fiber mix frame and maybe helps them not feel as bad when I blow past them on the trails :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a
from Dublin,CA Date Reviewed: April 22, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$169.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
This review is for the new 2005 Access XCL frame. Great design, excellent welds, new tubing, rear disc brake mounts, great graphics, paint holds up well, definite improvement from the 03 Access.
Weaknesses:
No weaknesses that I can find. My only concern is that the rear disc spacing on the new Access 05 model can easily accommodate a 6 inch or 160mm rotor. You can just barely get a 7 inch or 185mm in the new Access 05 model. The older Access 03 model would easily accommodate an 8 inch or 203mm rotor.
Similar Products Used:
Most hardtail and lots of suspension bikes and frames.
Bike Setup:
Access 05 XCL 18 inch black frame with Avid mechanicals, Truvativ cranks, Hadley hubs, Shimano LX shifters, Cane Creek 3G suspension seatpost, Mavic rims, Supergo carbon fiber MTB riser bar.
Bottom Line:
This frame is a great deal for $169. I have no complaints with the quality of this frame. I own three of these frames ( two 03's and one 05)and wouldn't sell any of them. These frames are designed for a 80mm and maybe a 100mm suspension fork. I have ridden alot of bikes over the last 20 plus years and this frame feels perfect. Supergo has got it right with this frame. Supergo has a great product line and I use many of their components too. For 05, Supergo has removed the Weyless name from their products and now just use a big S. This frame is a steal for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason martin
a Cross Country Rider
from huntington beach ca usa Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
san juan
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
very lite,cool design, very affordable
Weaknesses:
pain job not powder coat.paint durability similar to liquid painted products.i am a powder coater.took me 30 seconds to strip off the paint.
Similar Products Used:
gt, univega,trek,mongoose,amp
Bike Setup:
for my wife,all lx
Bottom Line:
i am a powder coater, so i wasnt conscerned with the durability of the finish.so for me, this was an outstanding buy.please dont let this paint job sway you from the durability of real powder coating.the difference is phenominal.night and day.after i painted mine metallic candy red, it looks great, and rides awesome.i love it.cant beat it for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Racer
from Mobile, AL Date Reviewed: January 19, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$149.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
its very light, strong and super stiff. Rides like other top brand hardtails. Has fast acceleration and precise cornering. Mines was built up to 25lbs with just LX components!
Weaknesses:
none,zip,zero,nada!
Similar Products Used:
Haro ICS 5.0, Salsa Bandito
Bike Setup:
complete LX drivetrain, Rockshox Judy XC, LX hubs on Sun CR-18, Sette stem, handlebar, and seat, Weyless seatpost, and IRC Mythos XC 2.1"
Bottom Line:
Fast as hell! There is virtually no better bike for the buck available. I would recommend this bike to anyone who wants to get into mountain bike racing. I mean I use it for everything! Cross Country, Singletrack, Slalom, and even some urban dirt jumping. If you're like me and just don't have the money for some freak'in $4000 mountain bike, and even if you do, BUY IT! You'll be glad that you did. I definitely am.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Majik
a
from California Date Reviewed: November 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
All of 'em
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
Total energizer bunny frame... Ive ran this frame for 4 years!! Its changed alot over the years. From V-brakes to disc, Single crown forks from 80mm to a 130mm. Ive hit it hard and harder and then some. No squeeks or rattles ever! Carves singletrack like no other, never fades in a hard carving turn, always holds the line. No cracks or dents nor failing welds or seems! If your low on dough but want something that handles ANYTHING, buy this frame! Ive replaced more failed componants (6 derailers, 3 wheelsets, 3 cranksets, 1 bottom bracket, 2 sets of shifters, tires... lots of tires, and cables? Who knows!)and the frame keeps going... unbeleivable!
Weaknesses:
-Big seat post (but can buy shims)Ive still use the original. Weak rear hanger, but it always bends right back ;)
Similar Products Used:
2 Cannondale HT's, 1 Specialized HT, Specialized Bighit, Santa Cruz Bullit, Surly single. Fuji steel road frame converted to a rigid MTB.
Bike Setup:
Currantly: Mantinou Black 90/120 coil, V Brakes (XTR front XT rear)XT deraillers, Shimano cranks, sun ringle flat shin digger pedals...
Bottom Line:
Today its all about the name. People put too much value on that sticker on your down tube. If you cant afford a $2000 name on your frame, but can afford good components build it yourself with this bike. Ive been doing this for 10 years and this bike is flawless as they come.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Pensacola, FL USA Date Reviewed: October 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$149.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Light weight, low price, great handling.
Weaknesses:
Paint chips easy, but you cant really complain much for the price and the otherwise great quality. The headtube had a slight dent in it when I opened the box, but a light "tap" with a ball pein hammer fixed it.
Similar Products Used:
'92 Raleigh Heat Technium, Manitou 1, 7 spd XT
Bike Setup:
Manitou Skareb Elite 80, XT drivetrain
Bottom Line:
I bought the frame based on reviews here and I can say that I am very happy. The thing handles great, climbs like a rocket and feels like a bike I should have paid much more for. I also bought the silver one based on some of the other reviews and I am glad I did, the silver paint chips just as easy, but you dont see it. I dont know if they just started doing this because I havent seen anyone mention it, but in addition to the extra derailleur hanger they also sent a small bottle of touchup paint with the frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Millar
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City, UT, USA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
149.00
Strengths:
Inexpensive, color range, standard tubing sizes, light... very light for the price.
Weaknesses:
Like everyone says, the paint chips like crazy. Day one and my cables chipped the paint. I would seriously recomend getting the silver because it probably won't show the chips as bad. The cable hangers could be more precisely welded.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Mt. Fuji (older), Rock Hopper, Rocky Mountain
Bike Setup:
Access XCL Frame, Mega 9 - Deore shifters/brakes/back derailer, Deore XT Front Derailer, Splined Hollowtech Cranks, RST Fork, Alex Rims.
Bottom Line:
This bike really is the key to having an affordable custom built bikes. It may have its problems but if you get the silver/clear finish you may not notice the scratches as much.
I was looking at a Gary Fisher Tasajara but didn't want to spend the money. I ended up looking at various pawn shops for an older bike with good components. I ended up building my bike for about 350 and the components price out around 500-600 total. I have been very pleased with the ride on trails and am eaglerly anticipating to round out my new bike with a new fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Dublin,CA Date Reviewed: June 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$149.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
This is the 2003 Supergo Access XCL aluminum hardtail 18" frame. This is an update. The frame still rides perfect after two years of hard use in all types of riding. It's well built to take abuse. You can put an 8" disc rotor in the rear. Welds are perfect and paint looks like new. You must use a 3" or 80mm fork on this frame. It's a XC frame.
Weaknesses:
None so far. I'm still amazed at the quality of this frame and for only $149.
Similar Products Used:
Most hardtails and alot of FS bikes.
Bike Setup:
Supergo Access XCL black 18" frame with Avid 185mm mechanical disc brakes, mostly shimano shifting, Truvativ Firex cranks, Hadley hubs (the best), Mavic 717 rims, Cane Creek Thudbuster.
Bottom Line:
I love this frame with it's 8" rear rotor capacity and a great quality ride. Supergo has a winner with this frame. I bought a second frame as a spare should I ever need one. It even comes with a five year warranty. Could you ask for more? I think not.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve O
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington Date Reviewed: February 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Stick In The Eye
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo
Strengths:
price, weight, geometry, cool color
Weaknesses:
graphics are ugly, a little flexy
Similar Products Used:
any mid line aluminum frame
Bike Setup:
LX group with XT rear derailleur, Manitou fork, Sun CR18 rims, Tioga XC tires, Azonic bars.
Bottom Line:
I built the bike for my brother in-law. Fun lightweight frame. Great bang for the buck. The bike tracks good. No complaints really other than I wish it was stiffer. It hasn’t broke yet. With the right parts it sure makes for a fast, light ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Dublin, CA Date Reviewed: December 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$149.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Follow-up review: 2003 Supergo Access XCL 18" frame, well made, well designed, can use 185mm or 7" disc brakes, great ride, no frame problems, comes in a wide range of colors, excellent price, comes with extra rear derailleur hanger and paint, best with 80mm or 3" front fork.
Weaknesses:
absolutely none after six months of hard riding.
Similar Products Used:
most hardtails and suspension bikes and frames.
Bike Setup:
2003 Access XCL 18" black frame, Avid 185mm or 7" mechanical brakes, mostly Shimano components.
Bottom Line:
After six months I'm still impressed with this frame and for $149 it's a steal. The ride is perfect with a 80mm or 3" front fork. Supergo has done a great job of updating and designing this frame and making sure you have plenty of room for disc brakes. Supergo also uses the common 27.2 seatpost on their mountain bike frames. I never get tired of riding this bike. I also have a 2003 Weyless Ultra and a Weyless SP frame and I'm impressed with the quality of these frame as well. Great price/great ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Riggins
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: October 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Murphy Hanrehan
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Inexpensive. Well built. XC racer geometry.
Weaknesses:
Ugly headtube decal under clear coat.
Derailleur cable housing boss on seat stay is misaligned.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F1000, American Comp Lite, Cannondale M600 (previous hardtales)
Bike Setup:
XT, Avid, Manitou SX Ti
Bottom Line:
This is a great frame regardless of the price. It rides as well as high end bikes and has lasted nicely. I've been riding it for more than a year now, including several races and a few epic rides. I've recommended it to penny-pinching friends. Buy this frame and spend your money on a better fork than I did.
The only problem I had was the misaligned derailleur housing boss on the seat stay. It was welded on at an angle causing the der. cable to rub on the boss. I avoided this by running housing from the rear der. all the way to the boss on the top tube. This bypassed the bad stop and my der. cable is better protected from contamination. I'm sure Supergo would have replaced the frame, but I don't mind the work around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lloyd
a Racer
from SW Idaho Date Reviewed: October 1, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Exquisite welding lightweight but VERY strong 71/73 geometry rear disc brake tab Best bang for the buck of any ATB product on the market
Weaknesses:
Stickers are under the clearcoat? Guilt for spending so little on such a nice bike?
Access XCL 03 frame, SID XC fork, Race Face cranks, SRAM rocket shorty shifters, XT derailleurs, Easton bar, Time pedals, Rolf Satellite wheels
Bottom Line:
This review is for the Access XCL 03 frame, which is the successor to the Alu. Frankly, this is one of the best frames I've ridden in my 15 years of mountain biking and racing. The tubing is nice, straight, and strong, the welding is awesome, the geometry is race-ready, and it's silly light-weight for what you pay for it!! (20" frame is a silly 3.8 lbs!!) I bought this frame to race on and built it up with some nice, lightweight parts. The first ride on it, I smoked another racer I've never been able to come close to, beating him up every climb. Downhill, she's nice and steady, sure and smooth through corners, and WAY FAST!!! I can't believe that these frames sell for less than $500, because this thing far exceeds the performance of some of the best aluminum hardtail frames that cost upwards of $800, including Giant, KHS, Specialized, Trek, or any other big manufacturer. Hands down, the best aluminum "after-market" frame out there!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack Ass
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodinville, WA, U.S. Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Good geometry, nice looking, will built, light, cheap.
Weaknesses:
Paint scratches easily.
Similar Products Used:
Really crappy mtn bikes.
Bike Setup:
XT drive train, Avid 7 brakes and levers, Mavic Crossride wheels, Black Elite Air fork, egg beater pedals.
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 2003 Access XCL. Buy this Frame! Look at all the money you will save that you can spend on components. If worst comes to worst and you really don't like the frame you are only out $130-150. You would have to spend alot more $ to get something that comes close to this thing. I bought parts on close-out and on sale and built a sub 22lb mtn bike for under $1100. I can live with a couple of scratches on the frame for the price, and they even include tough up paint!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Dublin,CA Date Reviewed: July 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Well thought out up to date 2003 design, excellent quality, easy to build up, can use at least a 7 inch disc rotor in rear, 7005 tubing, great price, 71/73 angles, feels like a good MTB should, nothing wierd.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Most hardtails steel and aluminum, most full suspension bikes.
Bike Setup:
2003 Supergo 18" black Access XCL, Avid 7" or 185 mechanical disc brakes, Rock Shox 3" Judy SL, Rock Shox seatpost, mostly Shimano.
Bottom Line:
I really like this frame, you can't beat the price and the quality is excellent, a well thought out up to date design, comes with touch up paint and spare rear derailluer hanger, paint is fine, rides great with no bad surprises, why pay alot more for a name brand, Supergo has a winner with this frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glynn
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs, Co. Date Reviewed: July 15, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Light, Stiff & Inexpensive. You'd have to spend a BUNCH more money to get a better hardtail frame than this.
Weaknesses:
None really. Weak graphics. Hard to find replacement (30.4mm) seat posts.
This frame rules! I've had no more problems with paint durability than any other bikes. Yes, the graphics could be improved, but who cares? It looks decent and it's as stiff and composed as anything out there. The standard aggressive XC geometry helps it climb like the proverbial goat and is acceptable on the gnarly downhills. Mine is the square-tube rear triangle and provides absolutely no perceptible flex (for good or bad). If I ever wear this thing out, I won't have to think twice about replacing it with the current version. 5 flamin' turds!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lin Dze
a Cross Country Rider
from Monterey CA Date Reviewed: June 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$140.00
Strengths:
Cheap, light, nice size.
Weaknesses:
the paint oh the paint. its all true. And the derailer hanger, no idea how i bent it so much...
Bike Setup:
03 XCL, Marz Marathon, Team Stylo cranks, XTR rear derailer, XT front derailer, Hayes Comp disc, and Sun DS2-XC/XT wheelset.
Bottom Line:
Insane price/performance. Basiclly half the cost, if not less, than a nice major brand frame. Nice and light, comfortable and no qualms with the geometry. Like every other review though the paint just wont stay on. Dosnt bother me a whole lot, but its true. I leaned it against a pole while I got something out of my pack and it scratched and chipped the top tube. Dont even think about the chain stays... And the derailer hanger, no idea, ive dropped it once but it seemed the stupid thing was horribly mangled the first week i had it. Oh well, at least they sent two in the box.
Overall its exactly what it claims, nice performance, and sizing with an excellent price tag.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: June 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Big Water (upper or lower)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Light weight, good geometry, good looks, inexpensive
Weaknesses:
None that I've discovered. Not a handbuilt US frame, but that's why it's inexpensive.
Similar Products Used:
hardtails for 12 years...Raleigh, Bridgestone, Kona, Weyless
Bike Setup:
18" XCL, Duke XC, SRAM cassette, chain and rocket shortys, Avid SD5, XT cranks, Derailleurs and hubs, Mavic 221s and Mythos, Flite saddle, Titec stem and generic handlebar, cheap clipless pedals
Bottom Line:
This review is for the new XCL because there isn't a listing for it under 2003 hardtails.(?) After my Kona was stolen (Ba***rd...wherever you are) I wanted to build my next bike, and bought a Weyless frame to stay in budget. I hated that frame! Didn't fit me at all and never felt balanced.
Because the geometry and size of the Access was almost identical to my old Kona, I took a chance. I just wanted something to strap my components to so I could ride until I save for a good fs. After my first couple of trail rides I realized it's far more than adequate. (Still saving for the fs though)
Bottom line: I have a good hardtail for less than $1,200 built up with reasonably good stuff that weighs 23 lbs. The graphics on this frame are far better than the old ALU. Feels incredibly balanced climbing. I'm able to get in the sweet spot between rear wheel slip and front wheel lift on steep climbs without having to think about it. Handles predictably on descents, and the riding position on level stuff is great. (Mostly a function of stem length and such, I realize)
If you’re looking for a good frame to build up a custom bike, or a cheap frame to build a cheap bike, the Access is a good option. You won’t garner any envy from other riders for your exotic bike, but are you thinking about that when you’re jamming through rock gardens and over roots?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Acworth Date Reviewed: May 30, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$139.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Price/weight/stiffness/geometry
Weaknesses:
Good so far.
Similar Products Used:
Various other hardtails
Bike Setup:
XT/Marzocchi/Titec/Sun RL
Bottom Line:
Well I'm over 200lbs and have rode the hell out of this frame for 6 months and It is still alive. I'm starting to climb with it like a mad man. Pisgah/Tasani/N.Georgia I don't do 4 foot drops but 2 footers are fine.
I got this because my last frame was worn out and I needed a quick/cheap fix. The frame has passed my expectations so far that I don't see a reason to get another bike till I move out west. I'm sorry that the last guy broke his, but I bet he just needs to talk to a different CSR. My bike is set up with strong components for a heavy guy and it is taking the beating.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Cooke
a Racer
from McMinnville TN Date Reviewed: April 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Tanasi
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$139.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Nice Geometry. Light Frame
Weaknesses:
Mine Broke after only 2 weeks of use. Supergo Customer Service sucks
Similar Products Used:
Schinn Rockett 88
Bike Setup:
LX Group with XTR Rear derailler. Manitou Mars fork and Avid Mechanical Disc's.
Bottom Line:
This bike really sucks. It only lasted me two weeks. I broke it in my first race! When I contacted Supergo, they told me that I was S.O.L. They would only give me a 15% discount on my next purchase or send my old frame back. Access Really has frighend me. They really suck. I broke the frame's downtube and I only weight 130 Lbs! I'd hate to see what would happen if a 200+ lb. rider hoped on it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Merrimack, NH Date Reviewed: March 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
chair-lift access ones
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo
Strengths:
lightweight...decent welds....satisfactory frame geometry, good color selections...
Weaknesses:
too soon to tell
Similar Products Used:
fuji outland
Bike Setup:
bontranger semi slicks, manitou 6 deluxe fork, flite saddle,lx and xt drive train, king head set (of course), ya da ya da....hornet yellow frame
Bottom Line:
this bike will be used mostly on the road for endurance training and some soft core trail riding. will still use the fuji as beater bike and sometime xc racer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Megan
a Weekend Warrior
from Claremont, CA Date Reviewed: February 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anything I can ride
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$139.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
good geometry, light, cheap
Weaknesses:
chips like crazy hates my rear wheel
Similar Products Used:
'91 nishiki cascade
Bike Setup:
access frame, lx/xt drivetrain, lx v-brakes w/ avid lever, flite seat, thudbuster seat post, titec hellbent bars w/ big al stem, rock shox indy c (hey - I'm on a budget)
Bottom Line:
I recently built my own bike (with significant help from the LBS, since I am a big poser). I like the geomtry of the frame. Keeps me in a better position than the cascade. Light and stiff. It chips like crazy though. It had 2 chips before it even saw pavement or dirt. It was cheap as heck, and as a budget bound college student, was a pretty good deal. At least as light and stiff as $800+ bike my rich yuppy friends ride. Overall not a bad deal. If you are on a budget like me go for it (at least they include touch-up paint). If you've got the big bucks, you might as well buy something people have heard of.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Krahulik
a Weekend Warrior
from Indianapolis, Indiana Date Reviewed: January 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Such a low cost. Lightweight but seems vry strong. Handling is very sharp. Climbs well - very nice front to back balancing.
Weaknesses:
None so far. When I ride I am not limited by the frame but by my abilities. A possible weakness is that it is an aluminum frame and rides like one.
Similar Products Used:
1980s Haro. Cannondale road bikes.
Bike Setup:
Duke XC shock. Jenson Shimano LX build kit (LX, Panaracer Fire, etc) Time Aluminum pedals
Bottom Line:
Great value. I have nothing but praise for the frame. I can not see how a more expensive hardtail could do better. I look forward to racing it in some local MTB races this summer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Moose
a Cross Country Rider
from Cold Spring, MN - USA Date Reviewed: January 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Mississippi River beds, St. Cloud
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo
Strengths:
Low price, High quality, Variety of colors available, Geometry - corners and climbs with anything out there, Incredible strength and stiffness, INDESTRUCTIBLE AND FUN TO RIDE
Weaknesses:
Seat post size. limited to post included or KALLOY post. Otherwise none.
Judy SL 100mm, XT rear and LX front der., LX hubs/Mammoth rims with 2.3 mm DH spokes, LX HollowTech splined cranks and XT splined bottom bracket, Hyperglide chain, LX rapidfire shifters, Avid SD-3 brakes, Specialized Hemisphere Cross tires. XTR 9 speed cassette with titanium cogs, Bontrager, Kalloy, Titec, Body Geometry.
Bottom Line:
This frame is the duck's guts! I've POUNDED this thing relentlessly since I built it riding on single track, through woods and bouncing off curbs around town. I have never ridden a bike that handles this well and takes this much punishment without failing. It is stiff and light and you can throw it around on the trails without beating yourself up. I own other bikes I have paid as much as $1700 for that aren't as light or NEAR as much fun. I like it so much I bought a new Access XCR frame to build. Why pay for a big brand name bike with low end components when you can buy the Access and spend what you save on some GOOD stuff, it's a no brainer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles Kim
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR, USA Date Reviewed: December 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Kokepelli trail in Fruita CO
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Price, workmanship, geometry, welds, availbility and size options,
Weaknesses:
none (besides the obvious, just cover it up with your choice of stickers)
Similar Products Used:
Catamount FS, Schwinn Homegrown 4-banger 99
Bike Setup:
02 Duke SL 80mm, LX components, Hayes mechanical, WTB headset
Bottom Line:
Excellent price, great quality, light frame. I built this bike as my "commuter" bike. I rode on a local trail and met another rider with a sweet Jamis with a Fox forx. I told him this was my commuter bike and he said it must be an expensive commuter bike. I guess I might rethink my main use for this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles Kim
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR, USA Date Reviewed: December 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Kokepelli trail in Fruita CO
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Price, workmanship, geometry, welds, availbility and size options,
Weaknesses:
none (besides the obvious, just cover it up with your choice of stickers)
Similar Products Used:
Catamount FS, Schwinn Homegrown 4-banger 99
Bike Setup:
02 Duke SL 80mm, LX components, Hayes mechanical, WTB headset
Bottom Line:
Excellent price, great quality, light frame
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
todd
a
from Portland OR Date Reviewed: December 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
I just received my 22" yellow Access frame. Very nice quality! I am very , very pleased with the product and I am now building it up. This is there latest frame and it came with a seat post and touch up paint. I look forward to putting some high end parts on this and get it on the trail.
Weaknesses:
none that I know of yet.
Bottom Line:
Buy this frame if you want ot build a mountain bike. I was worried buying mail order but I am now convinced after receiving this frame. put the money into parts and you be glad you did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wes
a Cross Country Rider
from Waxhaw, NC USA Date Reviewed: November 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Catawba Riverfront Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
You cant beat the price. And as fast as i'm growing, its the only way my dad can keep me riding.
Weaknesses:
The headtube sticker is awful! I covered it up with a Cane Creek sticker. Paint chips easily
Bike Setup:
Fully XT equiped w/ Mavic 517 rims and Rock Shox Duke
Bottom Line:
You get awsome value for this frame. Its strong, The handling tends to wander, but you can't beat it for $99.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duane
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: October 7, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$129.00
Strengths:
PRICE!! Very nice frame, even if would have cost more $$$$
Weaknesses:
They make you "chase" the bottom bracket threads before installing the BB. Supergo should charge an extra $3 and do that for you.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS full suspension, no-name crmo hardtail frame
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, old Rock shox Judy fork
Bottom Line:
I just wanted a "cheap" frame to transfer all my components over to, while I looked for a new FS bike. I broke my GT LTS frame, and although it was under warranty, GT didn't want to talk with me. Enough of that company, no matter who owns it. However, the Access hardtail has been a very pleasant surprise. Good enough that I'm going to keep it around, even when I do get a new FS bike. If you're looking for a very nice hardtail to complement your stable of bikes, this is the one. Once you ride it, and look at the minimal charge on your Visa, you'll forget that it's not a big name brand.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn Murphy
a Cross Country Rider
from Bossier City Date Reviewed: October 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Geometry, Price, Size avail, color selection, desent seat post included
Weaknesses:
This is pretty weak but the decals kinda suck - Improved for last year though.
Similar Products Used:
Access Alu 01 model, Raleigh M8000 99
Bike Setup:
All the important upgrades, chris king, SRAM 99, XT hollow tech, XTR brakes, and rear derailleur, Marzocchi 02 Z1 Wedge 130 mm. Mutano Raptor 2.4 - (fit nicely - room to spare)oh ya, Riser bar all the way
Bottom Line:
This is one of the stiffest bikes I have ever ridden. I would compare it to the GT Zaskar Team. The rear down tubes/stays appear to be resigned, offering disc like stopping power. I have only had one opportunity to ride but I’m totally impressed so far. I purchase Yellow, looks nice with black and red components
If name recognition is your game then do not purchase - If money for the durable(quality)components is what you want, then this frame is the one to attach them to
Cheers Shawn
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
-Rome
a Cross Country Rider
from Coupeville, WA USA Date Reviewed: September 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$129.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Beautiful seatstays and chainstays. Nice welds throughout. gussetted headtube, and normal 27.2mm post size. Included a Weyless(Kalloy) 2014 forged seatpost. Got mine in the yellow. '03 Access XCL model.
Weaknesses:
The ugly stickers are under the clearcoat!! Can't lose them. :(
Similar Products Used:
1991 Cannondale SM800 (Back-in-the-day) 1991 Trek 830 (free after I sold the 'Dale frame to my buddy) 1999 DBR X2 (Heavy, Mucho Bob, sold it!) 1998 Trek Klein Pulse Pro 2000 Supergo Access Ti. Love it, but no disc tabs :(
Bike Setup:
Bare frame for now, but a Marzocchi Z3 100 Air, and Deore/X223 wheelset on order, all other parts in the near future...
Bottom Line:
Well this frame is not built yet, but I will post a followup after I either build it up, or cannibalize the other parts from the Access Ti. Inexpensive price, but shows great quality and potential. (EXCEPT the STICKERS)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from OC, California Date Reviewed: September 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything that's dirt
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Supergo - Brea (RIP)
Strengths:
I bought an Access Alu in 1992 and beat the hell out of it for 6 years before I cracked the headtube. This bike was great (even in 1992). I don't think that you could go wrong with this frame.
Weaknesses:
The headtube cracked after 6 years, ie. none.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale CAAD3, Giant Iguana, K2 Proflex 5000, Santa Cruz Superlight
Bike Setup:
Multiple setups, I think the final setup included XT/XTR, Kore, Topline Cranks with World Class Ti BB, Manitou EFC, etc.
Bottom Line:
This was a killer deal and I definitely got my $299 worth out of this frame. With the current price of this frame, you can't go wrong!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellingham, MA Date Reviewed: September 5, 2002
Ugly decals, paint chips easily and, the derailleur hanger is soft.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper M2
Bike Setup:
Cane Creek Wam Ti wheels (front disc) Advid disc, Manitou SX Ti, XTR F/R deralluires XT Shifters, Raceface Next LP crank (ISI)959 pedals.
Bottom Line:
After several warranty replacements for my Stupjumper M2 Specialized cut me off. I decided to build the Access simply because I knew it was unique. You don’t see many of them because you have to build it yourself. Plus all but the shop guys and true bike fanatics really know who makes this frame. I have had this frame now for two years. At 6'4" and 195 lbs. I don’t baby this bike and it hasn’t let me down yet. I mash it through the rock gardens and hammer it on the descents. It performs every bit as well as my M2 did. In fact I think it climbs better than the M2. The frame is virtually indestructible. My model has the boxed tube rear-end and does not give an once of flex. The bike tracks as well as any good hardtail should. The graphics do truly suck and so does the paint job. After two years of hard riding I repainted my frame a sweet metallic graphite color. Now no one knows what kind of bike this is. BTW Supergo now stocks the rear derailleurs for $10.00 each. I would buy a few if you are considering this frame. That is its real Achilles heel. If you are inclined to build your own bike I would really recommend this frame. It will do all you ask of it and more. Big dollar frames may be a bit lighter but they wont perform any better. Save the bucks buy good components screw what other think and RIDE. and ride a lot.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Blacksburg, VA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
reasonably light (I think my 19 incher weighed 4.25 pounds), stiff, powdercoated, good geometry, value, disc ready, and CHEAP!
Weaknesses:
Aaawwww those horrible graphics!!!! the worst part is they are clearcoated over so you can't remove 'em! On the bright side the 2003 models are painted differently.
Bike Setup:
Sram 9.0, PC99, XT front derailleur, LX cranks, Avid SD7 brakes, Mavic X517 on XT hubs, Kenda Kozmik Lites, Sid XC- this all works out to about 22 pounds without pedals.
Bottom Line:
I built a nice 22 pound bike for about $1100 and didn't even use any stupidly-light parts. The geometry feels right and rides well. I can't say this is a spectacular frame but it is on par with much more expensive frames. The value is what sells this frame. The money you save on the frame can go towards trick stuff to hang on it. You don't garner the attention of a $4000 dollar bike and the paint schemes for 2002 were kinda corny but I regularly zip past full suspension bikers, exotic hardtailers and roadies on a bike that cost 25% to 50% less than theirs. Ha ha. Image is nothing. Seriously consider this frame wether you are on a budget or not.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Harrell
a Weekend Warrior
from El Paso, Tx Date Reviewed: August 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
Price,Stiffness, geometry
Weaknesses:
the most god awful embarrassing head tube sticker
Similar Products Used:
k2 oz
Bike Setup:
01 access frame, race face next LP crank and BB, shimano disc brakes, easton mg60 stem and carbon bar/seat post, mavic 223 wheelset with chris king hubs, sram shifters and derailers, marzocchi Z3 fork blah blah blah...
Bottom Line:
great value, stiff frame, friends thought i was nuts for putting high end components on "low end" frame. Truth is this frame performs with a bunch of high end frames. If you are looking to find hard core value in a frame and don't have the bones to do so this is your baby! If anything spend the cash you save on components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a Cross Country Rider
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: August 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
shake-n-bake
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
$129.00
Strengths:
tough, light, exceelent for the money
Weaknesses:
seatstays flez when braking, logos a little ugly
Similar Products Used:
K2 zed, homebuilt, gary fisher nyala, homebuilt
Bike Setup:
xt/sunrim sub-iv wheelset,no front derraileur, solid fork - ya man!! chris king, basic lx-xt setup
Bottom Line:
manm, this bike is AWESOME!! for $129 you really can't go wrong. I have the new '03 xcl model and my bike, not even with particularly good parts, weighs in at 21-22 lbs. this bike is lots of fun with a solid fork because suspension makes things boring.and this bike takes it all in stride. it handles downhills and jumpsmuch more solidly than my K2 zed and it's 85mm manitou mars fork.this is a great bike for this aplication because this setup is one many wand to try but figure it's too much trouble becue of money. However, the basic setup (framset) will only run you about $280 dollars(frame, $50 dollar surly fork and $100 dollar chris king headset), and you can "borrow" parts from an existing bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roger Dumas
a Weekend Warrior
from San Dimas, Ca. U.S.A. Date Reviewed: July 8, 2002
Favorite Trail:
tunnel
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
Great geometry, fairly light, Nice CNC'd chain stay yokes and drop outs, beefy tubes. And lucky me, I was able to get one that was polished with stickers that came off. They are usually cheaply painted with a clear coat over the stickers.
Weaknesses:
It's got an annoying creak that I can't figure out where it's comming from.
High end weight and handling for a fraction of the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dinohuntr
a Weekend Warrior
from Utah Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Not sure... I think it was Supergo
Strengths:
Everything! I have a 93 frame, and it has held up perfectly! I do trials, X-country, road, you name it. I recently did Porcupine Rim in Moab, and passed a guy on an Intense Uzzi SLX on a sketchy downhill section! This bike is tough! The paint has held up beautifully, considering the abuse it has taken.
Weaknesses:
Umm... that it says Supergo on it? But that actually adds to the fun when you're passing guys on expensive bikes.
Bike Setup:
Old XT 7-speed thunbshifters and derailleurs, Indy XC, toe-clips (I still swear by these), USE suspension seatpost.
Bottom Line:
I recently joined the full suspension crowd when I purchased a new Rockhopper FSR, but when I went to Moab, I took the trusty ol' Supergo hardtail. This bike fits me like no other, and I can ride circles around other riders when the trail gets technical. Even if money were no object, I'd still consider this frame, as long as the newer frames are as good as my 1993 frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
VIDS808
a Cross Country Rider
from Orange County, CA USA Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
2001 Frame: Good Geometry, stiff like a hard tail should be. Good climber, handles singletrack pretty well. Big butted down tube should make this frame last a while.
Weaknesses:
Decals suck - ugly, but I'm not ashamed of riding this blue-light special frame.
Similar Products Used:
Other Aluminum hardtails.
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z3's, XT Drive Train, LX components.
Bottom Line:
I especially like passing guys who have $2k+ rigs and look at my bike with disdain and a chip on their shoulder. Weight is not really an issue. All around, a good value. I put this thing together with hand me down components and it's done everything I've asked. I may, however take sand paper and a spray can to the decals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BadBoy Brad
a Weekend Warrior
from Silverdale, WA USA Date Reviewed: May 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Wildcat
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
Supergo.com
Strengths:
Super Light, Nice Price, Agile
Weaknesses:
Paint Chips So Easily, Decals Could Get Annoying....They Said That There Would Be Limited Decals....I Think Not...Never Mentioned The Decal On The Headtube...Sort Of Taky But I Don't Mind
Similar Products Used:
Raliegh M20
Bike Setup:
F519 Rear Rim, XT Disc Hub Rear, LX F.DR, LX Cassette, Avid SD7 Levers And Brakes, Marzocchi Z5 Air 100mm, Answer Orbit Stem, Weyless Bar, LX 9sd Shifters, LX R. Der, Shimano 22/33/44 crank, UN52 BB
Bottom Line:
Bike Is Setup For Urban Assault, Light Freeriding, and XC. Awsome Frame (2001) Love The Lightwieght. I Recommend JensonUSA.com For Your Bike Components, They Are Way Cheaper Than Supergo.com. The Only Good Thing That Comes From Supergo Is This Frame. 5 Flammin' Chili's All Around....Oh Yeah
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave
a Cross Country Rider
from berlin, vt, usa Date Reviewed: May 13, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
mail order
Strengths:
price is obviously outrageously low, quality is surprisingly good, geometry is good, overall ride is very good
Weaknesses:
its a tad heavy for an aluminum frame, but I have a feeling the "overbuilt" factor will keep it alive for many years
Similar Products Used:
fisher mt tam
Bike Setup:
cross country setup, with XT 9spd group, gripshifts, etc.
Bottom Line:
bottom line is that this thing rides as well, if not better for me, as the $1200 handmade steel frame I sold prior to building the Access. It also rides very close to the Fisher Mt Tam aluminum frame that I had for many years. Thanks to Supergo for providing a meat and potatoes, no bull aluminum frame for me to get back to my aluminum riding roots. I hope you keep this model in your line for many years to come. I'll be back for another when this one is used up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from Costa Mesa, CA USA Date Reviewed: May 6, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Aliso Creek, El Morro, San Juan
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
This frame is light, strong, and stiff. Well built.
Weaknesses:
I got the frame where the horrible decals are under the clear coat. Please Supergo, if you will not allow me to remove the decals the least you can do it put nice ones on it.
Similar Products Used:
Speicalized Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
XTR/XT, Rock Shox Duke XC, Mavic wheel set
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. I bought my Stumpjumper at a clearance sale. The frame was slightly larger than I liked, but it rode great after a stem change. The Stumpjumper was the older cro-moly version, after several years it started to show its age (rust). Knowing that this would only get worse, I was looking for a solid inexpensive replacement. After much debate, I decided the the Access. I have been happy with it ever since. I can't say enough about how much I love this bike. It has done everything that I have demanded of it. I am buying and FSR because all of my riding parteners have full-suspension, and I'm simply getting beat to death trying to keep up on 20 mile plus trails. I going to rebuild the Access, and keep it as a weekend warrior. Mine is the square tube version (rear triangle). Buy one if you can. 5 flaming ya-ya's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a
from Beaverton, Oregon Date Reviewed: May 3, 2002
Favorite Trail:
won't tell
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
supergo (of course!!)
Strengths:
Light enough. Great Price. Frame geometry.
Weaknesses:
Paint chips easily. The decal on the headtube, aaarrrgh!!!
I immediately searched my local bike shops for a sticker to cover up the headtube decal. A Rockshox one works awesome with very little trimming.
I've made the switch back to hardtails after going over to fs a few years ago. Just couldn't deal with the weight of a fs anymore and didn't want to have to deal with locking out the rear suspension everytime I wanted to go uphill. Plus, you can dust all your buddies who dumped bucks into their fs bikes just so their tender behinds wouldn't get sore.
The Alu is responsive and fast. It's like being on a long BMX bike.
Basically, go get this frame. It's a hundred bucks so let your imagination go crazy but don't put disc brakes on it (or on any bike not made for DH/freeride) they look stupid and they're heavy.
4 flamers for the Overall cuz the paint chips easily and the ugly headtube decal. By the way, did anyone get the bottle of touch-up paint promised???
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ben lepesqueuer
a Racer
from canterbury nh usa Date Reviewed: March 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
rocky dundee
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
strengths include, the weight, the PRICE!! good solid geometry, nice color (i got the one that did not have the incredibly lame graphics that the new one does...) it jumps tooo it has a versitile mood, with my sid i race it, with my x-vert i freeride, lots of fun.
Weaknesses:
The derailleur hanger is actually made of cheese. it totaly s---t the bed the other day, while i was going up a hill, wrapping my 2002 xt r. derailleur al the way around my casstte. I am not a 300lbs dh racer, i am a flyweight runner, so i did not overtourque this stupid thing. man i am still pissed!!!! and the people at supergo are being jerks and i can't seem to get another for the bike. i bet i am not the only one to have this problem, so if anyone can tell me how the hell i can get another, i would really appricaite it, obviously supergo could give less of a "darn".
Similar Products Used:
other race hardtails with WORKING HANGERS!!!!
Bike Setup:
XT-SID-mavic wheels
Bottom Line:
how do i get a hanger???? help!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
OldGuy
a Weekend Warrior
from Burnaby, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: March 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Trial'sy stuff
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Supergo.com
Strengths:
CHEAP. Nice welds, nice paint, good mid range option-neither XC light nor freeride heavy. Disc mounts strong seatpost size.
Weaknesses:
California specific head badge and "no name" brand. Not a biggie for me but for some it might matter.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hard Rock. Brodie Evolution (test). Specialized P3 (test) Norco Sasquatch. A couple of Treks....
Bike Setup:
Z5 130mm Bombers, Hayes HMX, short stem. All from the Sasquatch
Bottom Line:
I got a 20 inch Sasquatch about a year ago. I thought it would be a great first jumper and urban assualt bike for me but while the bike felt tight I had a hell of a time getting used to the weight distribution. In the end I realized that I'd gotten too large a frame and the Sasquatch even in the next smaller size was a little too nose heavy for me. Test rode a Brodie Evolution and THAT was what I was missing. But in the end I decided to try the cheaper way and just get this frame. Good thing too. The Access with all the parts moved over feels very close to the Brodie. I can pull up the front end at will and the steering has lost that "falling in" feel at low speeds. I went from the 20 inch to an 18. But the seat post size let me set up a double tube post setup by cutting off the top of the 30.4 and inserting a 27.4 (IIRC)with an extra seat post clamp. The quality is excellent. The front end with the 130 fork is a little high with the forks layed out farther than the designed angle. The frame was probably designed for a 100 mm but it works fine with the 130. I wouldn't even have noticed it unless I had put my bike next to another and seen the angles. All the parts moved over just fine with the critical seating for headset and bottom bracket being accuraty machined well enough for my high standards (I do some hobby metal machining).
I'm just learning to do jumps and trying to get my timing for wheelie drops off curbs at this point but the bike feels light, neutral steering and the front can be lifted at will. The overall construction looks great for regular jumps up to about 2 or 3 feet but it's not a heavy hit bike. 5 hot tamales for value (it's so cheap for such a nice frame) and 5 for overall for a great middle of the road frame. Design wise, it's getting hard to find good quality "middle of the road-do it all" general purpose bikes these days so this is a complement.
And this was my first dealing with Supergo and I was impressed. They took great care to read my order and other info back to me so there was NO misunderstanding. And they had all the answers to my questions right away off their own computers. I'll be going back....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: February 15, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
Cheap, handles everything i've thrown at it
Weaknesses:
cheap paint, ugly stickers, seatpost is 30.4 ???
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
Chris King Hubs-FSA headset-Mavic 618- panaracer-XTR/XT-Hayes disc-Pro taper-Manitou mars elite. 22 inch frame-25.5 pounds
Bottom Line:
great buy for the money. i dont think you can really complain about the paint and stickers when the bike only cost about a hundred bucks. take the money you saved and buy some decent components and a NEW STICKER for the head tube, thats it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, CT Date Reviewed: February 11, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Solid efficient design
Weaknesses:
Odd seat post sizing and questionable replacement rear derailleur bracket.
Similar Products Used:
Voodoo Bokor
Bike Setup:
XT/XTR drive train, Race Face cranks and rings, egg beater pedals, CrossMax wheelset with Velocirpators, Syncros stem, king headset and Manitou SX Ti fork.
Bottom Line:
I had spent a lot of time and money building up my old Bokor. When the frame broke I was SOL on a replacement from Voodoo and did not have much cash. I was reluctant to purchase the Access but needed a bike ASAP. The price was right and the graphics were ugly. After building up the bike and riding it around for about a year I can testify to one thing. It really works. I ride most days of the week rain or shine and this bike has yet to let me down. It handles the climbs and descents as good as any bike you would pay good money for. If you are a brand conscious weight fanatic and worry about what other people think this bike is not for you. If you are an avid rider low on funds but mechanically inclined. This is a great bike build and ride. The only things to look out for are the odd seat post sizing, ugly graphics, and replacement rear derailleur brackets (They are of questionable quality and fit, fortunately I was able to make my own out of steel).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jorge zayas-bazan
a Cross Country Rider
from san pedro,san jose, costa rica Date Reviewed: February 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
san ramon, finca las flores
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
www.supergo.com
Strengths:
it has a unique feeling when climbing. it gives you the sensation that no matter how long or steep the hill is you can climb it and keep going.
Weaknesses:
paint scratches easily.
Similar Products Used:
specialized hard rock 1995, marin palisades trail 1998.
Bike Setup:
rock shox judy xc 2002, full shimano LX components with rim brakes.
Bottom Line:
i am convinced this is the last frame i will ever buy. i do not think there is another frame that can match the performance of the access alu of course in the aluminium classification.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: January 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Point, Stillwell
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Supergo.com
Strengths:
Light, Great paint, welds, doesn't look cheesy. Great deal for $89 for frame, headset and seatpost
Weaknesses:
Odd seatpost size = 30.4
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper M2
Bike Setup:
STill in the process of setting up.
Bottom Line:
Hi Guys,
I was just wondering if anybody tried to hook this frame using Avid mechanicals. I plan on doing that but read in this review that the one of the disc brakes rubs on the chainstays. Does anybody else have this problem. If so please email me and let me know.
AS for the bike, I'll post up another review once the bike is complete. I'll give the bike 5 chillis for it's quaility.
Feedback much appreciated. Thanks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
trailgoat
a Cross Country Rider
from new england Date Reviewed: December 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
it depends on my mood...
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
supergo online
Strengths:
This is a good quality, no-frills hardtail: 1. nice geometry(71/73) 2. reassuring stiffness 3. decent welds 4. reinforcement in the right places 5. excellent price
Weaknesses:
1. Aaaaargh...I bought it just before the price drop! 2. incredibly lame headtube sticker (easily remedied) 3. unusual seat tube size
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
Access ALU frame, '99 Marzocchi Z2 Bam, XT crankset, XT 11-34 cassette, XTR front and rear der., XTR shifters, Avid Single Digit 7 brakes and levers, Mavic 517 rims w/XT hubs, Panaracer Fire XC(127tpi), Selle Italia Max Flite Gel w/Kalloy post, FSA Orbit headset, Kore Forged Stem, Raceface Air Alloy lowriser, etc...
Bottom Line:
Check out my parts list...I already owned the fork, but the rest of the components are new. I built up this bike for under $1000 bucks! If you don't care about having the "right" sticker on your down tube, then you can build a pretty sweet ride for short money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel Brake
a Cross Country Rider
from Hopkinsville, Kentucky USA Date Reviewed: December 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Canal Loop L.B.L.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Stiff four pound frame for 89.00 bucks, how can you go wrong!
Weaknesses:
Walmart quality sticker on the head tube. Odd seatpost size.
Similar Products Used:
Airborne Corsair, Specialized Rockhopper
Bike Setup:
XT brakes, and front and rear derails. LX cranks, cassette, and shifters and levers. Duke XC fork, Rolf Satellite wheels, Michelin Wildgripper Comp S Tires, Titec Stem, seatpost, and IRD Easton EA70 flat bar.
Bottom Line:
I've ridden ti and cro-moly. While each has their inherit ride qualities, why pay all the dough for a frame that you might not be happy with. For $89.00 bucks, if you don't like it, chuck it! It feels stiff and light and the geometry provdes plenty of bite. Mine built up ran me a little under a thousand dollars from scratch and weighed in at 25.5 pounds. Not to shabby for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
todd
a Cross Country Rider
from clarkston, MI USA Date Reviewed: December 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
Unbelievable deal! Very nice frame for $89.00 (including FSA headset, and Kalloy seatpost). Claimed weight is 3lbs 4 oz. (for the "small" size 14"). Welds and paint look high quality.
Weaknesses:
Seat post size and quality is sub standard, but the post clamp is even worse. I've seen better clamps on department store bikes. Frame comes not quite "build ready" as explained below.
01' Access ALU 16" (yellow), a shimmed 27.2mm Easton seat post (black), 00' Manitou SX (red), Control Tech stem (black), LX 9spd intigrated shifters, Avid 10 v-brakes (black), Bontrager Race crankset (black), Bontrager RE-1 pedals, XT front der, XT rear der, Sram chain, Bontrager Super Stock wheels and hubs, WTB Velosouraptor tires, Bontrager Race saddle.
Bottom Line:
After buying a SUGAR-3 last year, I found that I was unhappy with the Genisis geometry and the limited rear suspension travel. Being so used to the longer travel of the Y-bike made the Sugar feel almost like a hardtail. So I thought, Why not build up a hardtail? I just could't pass up the $89.00 special that Supergo had going. Even if it turned out to be a POS at least it didn't cost an arm and a leg to find out. So I ordered the frame and recieved it in about a week. Upon arrival I was impressed with the look and overall qualiy of the frame. But after some closer examination I could see some problems. The bottom bracket threads were slightly damaged and had a fair amount of paint overspray in them. I made the mistake of trying to put the bottom bracket in and ended up stripping out the first few threads in the frame. It was only after that did I find a piece of paper inside of the frame's box that very clearly said to have the threads "chased" by your local bike store. Anyway, my LBS was able to save the frame and get a bottom bracket into it. I haven't ridden it yet but the bike looks great, and weighs in at 25lbs finished. Because I haven't ridden it yet I'll have to rate it down the middle untill I get some saddle time in.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad
a Weekend Warrior
from Chattanooga TN Date Reviewed: December 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sumac Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Supergo.com
Strengths:
Cheap, Fairly Light, $89 for a frame, headset, and seatpost. How can you go wrong ?
Weaknesses:
Ugly headtube decal, goofy seatpost size
Similar Products Used:
Giant, Haro, Mongoose ( back in the day )
Bike Setup:
Silver frame, 01 Judy XC, LX/XT/XTR mix, Just a bunch of used stuff I had from other bikes.
Bottom Line:
I have ridden several different hard tails in the past, ranging from $300-2000. Some of them with the flashy graphics, some of the high dollar ti rigs etc. For the money, this frame is just as good. I may not be the fastest rider on the trail but I know you can spend 2500+ for one of the big name frames ( knowing the name is the majority of what you're paying for ) or you can save the money and build basically the same bike for 500.00 or so. The only difference is the $2000 sticker on the down tube. Who cares what it looks like as long as it's light, and it's fast. This has to be one of the best deals in mtn biking. Pick up a shim for the seatpost and forget about it. It's the best $89 I have spent in a long time. 5 flamin chilis for this one !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
spinjunkie
a Racer
from colorado Date Reviewed: December 15, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Not bad workmanship, free seatpost and headset w/ purchase. And moreover the price!
Weaknesses:
30.4 seatpost huh? Good God, those decals suck!
Similar Products Used:
many aluminums, still like steel, a few FS designs
This is the perfect bike for my wife. She splits her time between MTB'ing and trail running equally, so a real expensive bike for her was not necessary. For 89 bucks, it's a pretty good value. The seatpost size does suck, but if any one is interested, you can buy a shim from Control Tech online that cuts it to a 27.2. They're asking 9 buck for 'em. My guess is that this frame is made overseas (duh!) along side some other brands that are going for bigger bucks....Supergo, I imagine, can sell the frames so cheap partially due to the odd sized tubing used in the seat tube. Great second or single speed bike, although I'd don't know if I'd file the dropouts like the guy did below to get around using a singleator. Aluminum is too brittle already.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Charles Date Reviewed: December 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Great Value. Clean welds. Nice paint. Forged rear dropouts with disk mount (which I'll never use).
Weaknesses:
Lame decal on head tube.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper M2/FS.
Bike Setup:
Rigid fork, hand-me-down components (lx,xt,gripshift) from my Stump upgrades.
Bottom Line:
I wanted a cheap mtn bike for commuting and riding around home without cleats. Very impressed with the build quality of this frame. I was expecting much less. I got the silver one. Looks nice. Great deal if you need a frame. The free Orbit headset cinched the deal. How can you go wrong?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Carling
a Weekend Warrior
from North Carolina Date Reviewed: November 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
San Lee Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
Supergo!!! where else?
Strengths:
Light, Strong, Awesome price!!!!
Weaknesses:
30.4 Seat post?
Similar Products Used:
KLEIN Attitude, Crack n' fail
Bike Setup:
Bargain stuff from the last 2 years of web surfin' Thanks to Jenson USA, Supergo, and Price Point. Guys stay away from the DEALER for parts!! The internet rules!!
Bottom Line:
Love this performance, just as good as KLEIN or any other big dollar frame. Why spend the big bucks when they will only get scratched. Nice cable routing, finish and geometry, flighty and responsive. Thanks Mr. Supergo!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kell
a Weekend Warrior
from Southern Illinois Date Reviewed: November 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Good Welds, Stiff, fairly light, built strong at the headtube oh yeah INEXPENSIVE!
Weaknesses:
Cheapest Seatpost in the world. (bent on first ride) Bizarre seatpost size 30.4? Could be a little lighter
Similar Products Used:
Titanium hardtail (for 7 years), FSR XC
Bike Setup:
Duke SL100 (oh yeah!) bunch of used stuff
Bottom Line:
Get this frame if you are like me and want a shiny new fun bike to ride. I got the 16" and normally take a 17 but wanted a shorter top tube and something I could have fun on. Seatpost won't last but it was free so who can complain except its hard to replace, will have to get a shim from supergo. Bike was made for 80mm travel but I put a 100 on it and love it. This bike is a little overbuilt which is good. Very good value, one of the few times something turns out better than you think.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin L.
a Cross Country Rider
from Sayreville NJ USA Date Reviewed: October 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Inexpensive, stiff, reasonably light weight
Weaknesses:
Stiff,Getting a frame mail order is a little risky (size and quality concerns)but the staff at Supergo was very helpful and it wasn't a problem
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox SID, Kore stem,XT/XTR mix, Mavic 517 wheels, Selle Italia saddle
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my review below. After 6 months of hard riding all I can say is I relly love this frame. It is a bit stiff and took some time getting used to after being on a full suspension bike for the last 3 seasons, but the give in the ti rails on my Selle Italia saddle help to smooth things out considerably. I would definately recommend this frame. Also support from Supergo was excellent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Sandy
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: October 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
lake morena
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Nice balanced ride, not too heavy, very cheap!
Weaknesses:
Paint chips easily, stickers, and I would like a longer top tube, a bit lighter would be nice.
Long story: My land shark needed a new fork (it has a 1" headtube) I ordered a fork from Phattire (they were great, by the way), but my LBS called to say: "no can do: the head tube is too badly ovalized"
So I had a delimna: buy a new bike, or a frame and component swap. I went for the access Alu for $119, paid supergo for the labor, and needed a few parts here and there. Bottom line: a new hard tail that handles fine, and cost me about $500 when it was all said and done ( I wish I had the know how, to do the labor).
If you need a frame I'd recommend the access. It rides fine, not too heavy (mine weighs about 24.5 lbs), not too harsh, it's a hard tail, probably no better or worse than any other. I'd prefer a light steel frame (or ti, better still), but for the money this is a great deal!
If you want a hard tail, that appears well built, if you like aluminium, and you don't want to spend a lot of cash, go with the access. Also, the service at supergo seems first rate, they did a good job building it up. Happy riding!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
swankboy
a Cross Country Rider
from Haiku, Maui, HI USA Date Reviewed: September 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mamane
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
Ridiculously cheap! Stiff, and light! Blue paint looks nice once it is built up. Proven geometry.
Weaknesses:
Silly headtube decal, covered mine with a Rock Shox sticker. Other decals too large to disguise easily. Your friends will laugh at you.... So what, they suck.....and are easily suckered into dumping huge wads of cash on products that don't perform this good. At this price, must have been built by five year old's in an Asian sweat shop. Just like your Nike Air Jordans. But hey those five year old's can weld a pretty sweet frame.
Similar Products Used:
Early 90's Cro mo Specialized Stumpjumper (prestige)....still have it. Cannondale hardtails, I don't trust 'em. Giant XTC NRS nice but not nearly as much fun as my Access Alu.
Bike Setup:
Single Speed! Filed dropouts 2mm, fits 32x18 perfectly with no chain tensioner! At $119 voiding the warranty is no biggie. Truvativ ISIS S.S. crank. Azonic risers, with race face stem. Cheap orbit headset. Recycled XT hubs laced to ancient mavic 231's. still rollin' after all these years. WTB seat. Rock shox Shock post, you'll need one...saves the L5 vertebret from being crushed on any ride over 1/4 mile. Avid single digit brakes. SPD's. Marzocchi z5. Hutchinsn Pythons.
Bottom Line:
Shopping for a frame to build a singlespeed was driving me nuts! Finally figured I would get the super cheap access, slap on a singleator and give it a go. If I hated it I could easily bolt on derailuers and give it to my girlfriend..... At least then she would forgive me for having so much MTB crap lying around. No expectations, no risk. SURPRISE! while building it up I realised all I'd have to do is file the dropouts a couple mm to snuggly fit my desired 32x18 gear ratio.....no lame tensioner! This bike rides sweet! Very nimble in the tight singletrack,precise, fast and light.... stable at speed. At 20lbs its as flickable as a BMX bike. Climbs like you would expect any lightweight aluminium hardtail to. I am selling my Giant XTC NRS frame medium, and xt disc wheels, w/hayes mechanical brakes. I just never ride 'em anymore. Email me.
BOTTOM LINE...... Buy one, build it up with what youve already got lying around, and last years closeout parts, you'll have a solid race ready rig for less than your buddies spent on they're frames alone. They'll only laugh 'till you leave 'em in the dust..... serves 'em right, pretentious weenies. Five Flaming Liberace's for the Alu!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ladric
a
from Mpls MN Date Reviewed: August 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Stiff Frame - Great Price
Weaknesses:
Decal on Head tube but for the price - slap on a sticker (good place for NORBA).
Bike Setup:
All the extra stuff from years of racing. XTR, blaa blaa blaa.
Bottom Line:
Overall a great deal – especial if you have a trunk full of extra parts that need a home. The first thing I did was cover up that idiotic decal on the head tube – what was someone thinking?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frorider
a
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: August 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
That's a secret
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Supergo.com
Strengths:
Inexpensive frame if you're in a bind. Price includes an ok seat post (good luck trying to find a replacement that size) and a QR collar.
Weaknesses:
The 2001 frame is quite a disappointment from what Supergo has put out in the past. The paint is cheap. And some moron decided to put a sticker on the headtube depicting a trail closure sign. Normally this wouldn't offend, but it is ugly and cannot be removed because it is clear coated over like the rest of the stickers. My biggest problem was that it would not take my Grimeca System 8 disk brakes. The disk rubbed the inside of the chainstay. Add to that, when I emailed Supergo initially I got an email that indicated that their warranty dept. has no idea what they are talking about which was reinforced with a phone call: "This frame will work for an international standard. I am not aware of what size disc is needed; that is research that you, as a customer, need to do. The sizing may be specific to the brake set/model you are choosing. My suggestion would be to contact Grimeca for disc,spec. info. You may be using the wrong disc size, or, you may need to use a spacer for clearance, again that is fairly standard in install." cc; warranty/returns specialist c.s. dept. manager For the record, the Grimeca's are exactly the same as XT's which they sell and people supposedly use on this frame. It was frustrating and a hassle to talk to anyone there who knew what they were talking about as everyone told me to use spacers. If spacers are used they would only push the disk further into the chainstay. Their tech seemed confused at this, but then he could barely speak english.
Similar Products Used:
Older Access Alu 1998.
Bike Setup:
None, I was unable to finish building the bike.
Bottom Line:
If you want a really cheap bike to ride where you won't have to worry about someone stealing it, then this frame is ok. I'm not sure why someone at Supergo felt it necessary to put their politics on the headtube in a manner that cannot be removed, only covered up. Just because people in California are arrogant, think they own everything and have their trails shut down do to this, doesn't mean the rest of the country has to sympathize. I won't be shopping at Supergo for a long time as my experience with their incompetancy has turned me off. I broke down and bought a Cove "Stiffee" from JensonUSA. The individual I spoke to knew what the hell he was talking about.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from N. Apollo, PA Date Reviewed: August 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Roaring Run
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Inexspensive upgrade. very responsive frame.
Weaknesses:
changed out the quick-release seatpost collar (which was included)
Bike Setup:
Judy race. XT der. & brakes.
Bottom Line:
Our normal loop contains everything from smooth singletrack and fireroads, to hair raising downhills and teeter-toters. This frame is built strong and holds up very well. I would highly recomend it for a good upgrade or replacement.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel Brinkman
a Weekend Warrior
from Bellevue, NE Date Reviewed: July 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Swanson Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Stiff, well balanced, light. Low cost.
Weaknesses:
2000 model has too many decals.
Similar Products Used:
Barracuda Comp.
Bike Setup:
2000 Access- 24 spd LX drivetrain, DiaComp 737 v-brakes, Mavic 221/XT wheels,IRC Mythos tires, generic stem, bar, WTB SST saddle, Rock Shox Jett C fork. 2001 Acess- 24 spd STX-RC drivetrain, Alivio crankset, 96 Judy XC fork, Tektro v-brakes, WTB SST saddle, generic stem, bar. Sun/STX-RC wheelset, Hutchinson tires.
Bottom Line:
The 2000 model is over-built for the type of riding I do. If you are a heavy or aggressive rider, it's the way to go!(Last I knew, Supergo still had a limited number of sizes for sale.) The 2001 model can be built inexpensively (Under $500) so you can enjoy riding while you save for better parts. Recommend for riders who want a basic bike that will adapt well as their riding style/capability changes. Recommendation for reviewers who find the seatpost hits the water bottle mounts--cut the seat post off! (Be sure to maintain adequate insertion length!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix Date Reviewed: July 13, 2001
It is a very stiff frame, very predictable, overall worth the money. There is only one problem with it though. The caps on my Judy SL hit the down tube in sharp turns as someone mentioned here. It really doesn't bother me but just disapointed in the lack of design on the part of Access
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Erik Rathfon
a
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: June 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bavington State Game lands
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
stiff, strong and cheap This is without a doubt the best deal in Moutain biking
Weaknesses:
The only possible weakness is the odd seat post size. although only a month old my paint is fine
Similar Products Used:
I currently race on a trek 8900 and this bike handles better even with a rigid fork
Bike Setup:
full rigid and single speed via a singleator. Easton carbon riser and cheapy shimano v brakes, no name stem and cane creek wheels. I play around with the tires alot as it is a single
Bottom Line:
If you have been pondering this bike on the net (like I had)and wondering if this could really be the real deal believe it. $119 is hard to fathom but this is a quality frame It seems to be a cross of a trek/fisher front triangle with maybe a schwinn rear? I broke a kona ku frame that i was using for my single and needed something fast and cheap. I wish I would have bought this a long time ago. i am thinking of buying another one for a geared bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin L.
a Cross Country Rider
from Sayreville NJ-USA Date Reviewed: June 10, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Cheap price, beefy stays, stiff
Weaknesses:
Everyone knows how much I paid for it!Reviews said paint chips easily,I put 3 coats Duplicolor clearcoat on before I built it up-WARNING!! Apply Clearcoat outside. I applied it in my basement with the windows open and a fan going and you could still smell fumes in the house for three days,plus if the fumes build up and contact a flame (hot water heater, boiler etc.) KABOOM!!!
Bike Setup:
Xtr/XT, Rock Shox SID,(FSA headset,No name stem and seatpost came with the frame
Bottom Line:
So far I'm very impressed with what my $199 got for me.After reading the reviews here I figured what have I got to lose? Pretty light frame and it rides great. Only time will tell how durable it is They changed the design recently and lowered the price to $119. If I get one or two seasons out of this frame I'll be happy, but from the reviews here, I think I'll get more.As for the chipping paint, I put a couple of coats of Duplicolor clearcoat on. All told it cost me $750-$800 to put together a much better than average bike.If you are a biker on a budget, collect the parts as they go on clearence through various mail order firms. I bought my SID for $249(MSRP$430) at the end of last season, Icon aluminum riser bars for $14.00 etc.Look around you'll find the bargains usually late summer/early fall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel Vyduna
a Racer
from Johnsburg Date Reviewed: May 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Kettle Moraine
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
look below
Weaknesses:
look below
Similar Products Used:
look below
Bike Setup:
look below
Bottom Line:
This is a great frame especially for the price, but if you want a perfect frame with absolutely to paint problems, weld problems or anything else, look at the spicer aluminum frame. There is a review on mtbr for it. A perfect 5 around the board! Obviously if you're considering an access, you aren't a poser, so look at this frame too. I've had one for a year and it's thew best frame I've ever had. It's a little more than an access, but the quality you get is worth it.
www.spicercycles.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ROBERT KILLIGREW
a Cross Country Rider
from CHULA VISTA CA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
CUYAMACA MTS
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$119.00
Purchased At:
SUPERGO
Strengths:
STIFF, WELL MADE, GOOD GEOMETRY, NO FRILLS- JUST A SOLID, DEPENDABLE RIDE-LIGHT TOO, FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO CARE. OH YEAH, THE PRICE!!!!!! WHOA DOCTOR!!!
Weaknesses:
DECALS MAYBE, BUT IF IT'S GOT TO HAVE A WEAK POINT, I'M GLAD IT'S A COSMETIC ONE.
Similar Products Used:
GT AVALANCHE, TREK 6500, OTHER STIFFIES
Bike Setup:
SERIES 2001 ACCESS FRAME, BLUE, R/S PSYLO X/C, SHIMANO X/C DRIVETRAIN, KORE, PANARACER, SOME OTHER STUFF..
Bottom Line:
THIS FRAME RIDES AS WELL AS ANYTHING ELSE I'VE BEEN ON, AND THAT'S SAYING ALOT. ITS TOUGH, DEPENDABLE, AND LIGHT ENOUGH FOR ANY X/C TRAIL RIDING. AND TO TOP IT OFF, SUPERGO HAS DROPPED THE PRICE TO A MERE 119.00.. COME ON NOW FOLKS, WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT? IT WON'T GET BETTER THAN THAT UNLESS THEY START GIVING THEM AWAY FOR FREE. IF YOU WANT A GREAT BIKE, ONE LIKE THE PICTURES YOU DROOL OVER IN THE MAGAZINES, YOU CAN GET ONE USING THIS FRAME AS A BASE. PUT SOME PRIMO SHOCKS ON IT, A DECENT DRIVETRAIN AND YOU'RE READY TO ROLL. GET ONE!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
j.ron
a Cross Country Rider
from boise idaho Date Reviewed: April 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mingtur Pass Kyrgyzstan
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$179.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
cheap, relatively light, decent welds, good geometry.
Weaknesses:
weird seatpost size, small frame size has limited water bottle space
Similar Products Used:
GT avalanche,
Bike Setup:
mostly XTR
Bottom Line:
I bought this frame for my kid because she'll outgrow it fast. But hell, I'd ride this frame. It's not bad at all. Frame this good ten years ago would have cost $1000.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA Date Reviewed: April 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any, even the burn't ones!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Cheap, light, very strong
Weaknesses:
Stickers are ugly?
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6000
Bike Setup:
Access frame, Manitou Mars C, XT everything, Mavic 517's
Bottom Line:
I consider myself a beginner. Well, I spent approx. $900 building one hell of a bike. Scott at D.O.M.E. and Alex at Land of Oz were great helping me and a friend build this incredible bike. This frame is probably all I will ever need. Get the frame and sprnd the savings elsewhere!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Abel
a Cross Country Rider
from Reseda, CA Date Reviewed: April 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Franklin Canyon Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Light, strong, looks awesome, extruded chain yoke, replaceable derailler hanger, stable geometry, clear coat over the decals, heat treated butted 7005 aluminum, cable routing on top tube, nice welds. up to 22" frame!
Weaknesses:
clearance on the rear wheel when brakes are installed was a little close, hard to take off inflated wheel. had to get a derailler with a bigger clamp. not many downsides!
Bike Setup:
Access Alu-ht 2000 frame, full xt shifters and deraillers, deore lx cranks with hollow-tech, xt bottom bracket, deore lx hubs, with mavic 221 rims, kore bar and stem, titec short barends, lizard skins chainstay protector (extra large), thorn resistant tube in back, self sealing in front, total weight is 26lbs
Bottom Line:
this frame rocks, especially for 200 bucks. light, fast, strong....three things i look for in a bike! buy this frame if you are either new to the sport, and dont want to spend an arm and a leg for a frame, or if you are a vetran trail rider who wants to expand their bike collection by adding a very trustworthy frame. custom ride for $200, not a bad deal....GO GET ONE!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KEITH BELGRAVE
a Weekend Warrior
from BARBADOS Date Reviewed: March 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
ALL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
SUPERGO
Strengths:
CHEAP,LIGHT AND VERY STIFF
Weaknesses:
PAINT CHIPS VERY EASY
Similar Products Used:
NIL
Bike Setup:
DC X-VERT FORK,WITH MAGURA HS-33,XTR CASSETTES,XT SHIFTER PODS ETC
Bottom Line:
As far as bang for your buck goes,it doesn't get any better than this.i have a 22" frame and i weight 210lb.this frame is a solid performer,abit hard on the tail,but i figure a good suspension seatpole should help with this.i understand that the folkes at supergo contracted the company that makes frames for the big boys in the bizz.i decided on this frame because of price and good reviews,so i placed my money on buying good parts to build a killer bike.if money is a factor go get this thing,if not waste money on a logo..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bobcat Trail in Marin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Light and Fast! This thing screams up and down the hills. I live on California St, in the city, and the last bike I had was a pain to have to climb back home in after a long ride. This one is so light I can lift it up over my head one handed with easy!
Weaknesses:
Expect a sore rear end on long rides. I even have the special saddle that is suppose to help numbness but this frame is really stiff so it kinda cancels out.
Similar Products Used:
Rode an Klien Adept demo and was renting Specialised Hockhopper on occasion.
Bike Setup:
Got frame and Manitou MARS C front shock for $400. I have a full XT package with the exception of brakes, I have Avid Speed dial levers with Archrival 5.0s. Went for TIME Atac pedals.
Bottom Line:
Great frame if you don't need full suspention or you want to move fast at the cost of comfort. I wish it had rear disk mounts so I could use disks all around, I may put disks up front yet.
Overall its a great value so 5 for that, but I only give it a 4 because of how sore your get after 20+ miles.
See you in Marin!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Crazy Carl
a Weekend Warrior
from Northport, NY Date Reviewed: February 6, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
i don't have the alu i have the more beefy max, i love this frame plus i got it mad cheap cause the discontinued it, it's got HUGE gussets, multishaped tubing and a diesl chainstay yoke
Weaknesses:
i chipped the paint but that could just be my fault for letting the wrenchs slip other than that there's NONE!!!
Similar Products Used:
too many to remember i used to work at a bike shop
Bike Setup:
full xt cept for the rear v brake which is xtr, gripshift srt800 xrays, judy c fork, wtb velociraptors, wtb sst seat, ritchey clipless pedals
Bottom Line:
My bike kicks ass!!!!! too bad they don't make it anymore cause this thing is sick, it's light, i got it for mad cheap, and it's stiff as all hell. u should see this thing the downtube starts in a regular circle and comes down to a oval shape at the bb. i don't know what else to say other than if u have a chance to get one go for it!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Budd Lake, Nj USA Date Reviewed: January 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Deer Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Very durable and very cheap. Very light also. I bought it off supergo.com with a great deal that they combinded the frame witht a manitou mars c fork for $400 which is a great deal still going on at there site.
Weaknesses:
Paint Chips
Similar Products Used:
GT
Bike Setup:
Manitou Mars C fork with LX Drive Train ,Mavic X517 Wheels with XT hubs
Bottom Line:
It is an increadible deal. It is not only light but it is cheap and thats hard to find in the bike indusrty these days.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason menard
a Cross Country Rider
from toronto Date Reviewed: December 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
phat tea
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
SUPERGO
Strengths:
rediculusly stiff,lots of tire clearance, all in a nice lightwieght alluminum package
Weaknesses:
seatpost wont go all the way down due to water bottle mounts in the seat tube.
Similar Products Used:
haro V3 (heavy ass steel trailbike) cannondale M400
Bike Setup:
trials: 16in.(blue),race face (32 tooth single), maguras, tioga downhills and seat,z3 lites, and so on and so on
Bottom Line:
let me start by once again stating the price - $199!!!. this frameset is a fantastic platform for any rider if your into jumping or trials get a small and reap the benifits of its tire clearance and box section rearend(almost identical to some Konas ive riden) if your into cross county you can take full advantage of its light weight and low price that alows you to spend your money on a better fork or wheels. all in all i have to say that i am 100% satisfied with my purchace and highly recomend this frame to ANYONE. as long as they order it in blue- all the other colors look nasty!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brian
a Downhiller
from san luis obispo Date Reviewed: November 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
weight, strength, looks
Weaknesses:
geometry lack of seatpost adjustability (because the waterbottle mounts prohibit lowering the post much)
Similar Products Used:
i've been through lots of hardtails
Bike Setup:
14.5" frame
Bottom Line:
i had this thing setup up as a dirtjumper for awile. very nice. the frame is really light, and for some reason hasn't cracked yet. the bike handled a little weird with a 4" fork though.
i currently have it set up for trials with a rigid and it is amost perfect. top tube is just a touch short though.
for 200 bucks and a 3year warranty, i gotta reccomend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc Peot
a Cross Country Rider
from Golden Date Reviewed: November 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
One that goes UP!
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Stiff! Cheaper than a used frame! Great handling! Did I mention that it's Stiff?
Weaknesses:
On the new 2K frame, you can't peel off the stickers.
Similar Products Used:
Giant. Gary Fisher.
Bike Setup:
Manitou SX-TI, XT fr.der.,levers,brakes and crank, XTR cassette,rr.der. and shifters, Kalloy riser, USE XCR seatpost, Bontrager Mustang ceramics w/ Panaracer Fire XC, Terry Fly saddle
Bottom Line:
I got my first Access in '98. The downtube cracked right behind the headtube gussett this May. Luckily, I was riding around the parking lot at work during my lunch break! The folks at Supergo(who have always been great to deal with) told me that it failed due being heated too much during welding. The new 2K frame they replaced it with does not have a weld along the bottom edge of the gussett plate. Not to mention that the rear triangle has been redesigned with massive square tubing and s-bend seat stays and a new bb yoke. Initially, I was upset, due to the frame being a bit heavier. Then I rode it. WOW! Climbing and cornering are much improved. The ride seems MORE compliant as well--- it seems to soak up little stuff even though it is way stiffer in the rear end. A mystery. All I can say is that this a great frame irregardless of cost. If you need a good hardtail -- put your $$ into great components -- not into some name. After all, when your riding, aren't you looking at the trail and the scenery? Or are you looking at your downtube? Happy Trails!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gerard
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: November 6, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo
Strengths:
Read the review
Weaknesses:
The graphics are not the best, could do with an additional hanger bracket
XTR/SRAM 9.0/9.0SL Drive Train, Cook Bros crank, FSA Ti BB, Bomber Z2 Superfly, Raceface post, Lite Flite Trans Am saddle
Bottom Line:
I thought I would give this frame a total testing time before I wrote this, so here it is.
I originally bought this as a fill in frame while I thought about what to buy next. The LiteSpeeed I was on was really annoying me with its lousy frame geometry and suspension craftsmanship, and at $200 the Access 2000 frame could not be any worse and it would not threaten to fall apart (plus I bought one for my girlfriend a year ago and it is going fine).
It arrived I put it together and I went out rode it. Well this is the best frame I have ridden to date. The geometry is solid cross country material, good top tube-bottom bracket relationship giving a good 50-50 balance and the overall handling is agile and responsive. The oversized tubing provide for a super stiff but harsh ride, so watch out. The frame is well balanced enough to provide confidence to ride the trickiest of single track.My 20" frame weighs in at 4.2 lbs which is only .3 lbs that a LiteSpeed hardtail of the same size but at one fith the price.
The welds are nice (though my girlfiend's Access 2000 has nicer ones) and the paint was solid and clean. I am not a fan of the graphics, but on the blue one can put up with them.if you know the industry at all you will know that the majority of Alu. frames come from about three or four factories in the world, so it is safe to say who ever builds these for SuperGo are most probably building frames for Giant, Trek, Mongoose etc.
Overall I wish I had known about this frame years ago. I have ridden frames worth thousands of dollars over the past 12 years I have been ridding off road, but this one is every bit as good if not better. For the money you save on the frame, you can buy some mighty fine light parts and build a very sweet fast and light X-country ride.
So as you might guess, I am keeping this frame and saving my cash.My advice is to buy one and give it a go, at $200 you can not go wrong.It may not have a brnad name on it, but you can build a much sweeter bike than the guy who buys a bike with a name.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: October 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Bottom Line:
Just wanted to add to my post below; I didn't really notice until recently that the preload and lok-out knobs on the top of my single-crown fork hit the downtube when turning sharply...looks like a design error. Perhaps they wanted to get the "axle to bottom of head tube" length (if there is such a measurement) as small as possible but the clearance problem is unacceptable. I've asked a multitude of people what I can do about it and the answer I get from everyone is besides a taller headset, nothing. I really like the frame a lot, but it is a shame that the designers didn't think everything through.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: August 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Great Price Strong Relatively light Good tire clearance
Weaknesses:
The seat post can't be lowered all the way because it hits the water bottle cage bosses on the seat tube
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper Klein Attitude
Bike Setup:
'00 Manitou SX-R fork with lok-out LX-XTR components except Old XT Crank and Bottom Bracket 34-24 chainring -w- Bashring Sun Rhyno Rear Rim -w- IRC El Gato 80mm 10 degree stem and Azonic DH 1.5" rise bar
Bottom Line:
Overall, great frame! Right now I have it set up for both mountain biking and trials and it offers a good balance of compliancy and stiffness -- the ride isn't too harsh, yet I don't feel any significant amount of flex. It's also quite light (3.95 lbs. for the 16" size) for being a rather rugged frame, and the welds are nicely done. However, a annoying problem with me was the fact that I couldn't lower my seat all the way for trials because the seatpost would hit the water bottle cage bosses. Other than that however, it rides well, the geometry is good, and the value is unbeatable. Unless you're looking for a super-light top-of-the-line frame, this frame is a great way to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luis Enrique Cisneros
a Cross Country Rider
from El Salvador Date Reviewed: June 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Madre Selva
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
strong, stiff, big tubes, strong welding, great geometry, cheap
Weaknesses:
weak paint, and decals, after that, NONE
Similar Products Used:
TREK 4000
Bike Setup:
SHIMANO LX,XT,XTR, SUN RIMS. ROCK SHOX JUDY XC (80 MM), BONTRAGER TIRES
Bottom Line:
I just love its geometry, it feels great, and strong. For the money that I paid for it ($198), it's a real bargain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Racer
from Santa Monica Date Reviewed: May 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Aliso Wood
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Cheap, good quality, big tubes, stiff, reasonably light.
Weaknesses:
Access logo, and you can't peel it off because the logo is under a clear coat of paint
I have the 2000 model and the 2000 model is completely different than the oder models. I absolutely have nothing to complain about except the lame Access logo on it. You have to check it out and if you compare it with any other hardtail in any price range, it's just as good or better. I put some stickers to cover up the Access logos and now it looks like a pro level bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jc
a Cross Country Rider
from Newfields, NH, USA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2000
Man is this frame tough. In 2 yrs. I've beaten the crap out of it (almost as bad as my body); it's dented and chipped all over and it rides like the day I got it. I didn't expect such an inexpensive frame to hold up this well. Rides real sweet too. Great frame for someone just starting to do stupid things :-> because this frame can take it and you wouldn't want to do some of this to a big bucks frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Arizona Date Reviewed: April 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
CHEAP! Light weight and tough too.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Something-Hopper
Bike Setup:
Manitou SX fork, blah, blah, blah...
Bottom Line:
For the price you can't beat it. Even if you don't consider the price, you probably will STILL have a hard time beating it. ;-) It's light weight (4lb) and strong. The only thing left to worry about is geometry and that's something YOU have to figure out for yourself. I've heard complaints about the paint chipping, but mine has been solid so far. I understand Supergo has addressed this issue in the 1999+ models. It fits me very well (5'9" with sort-of long legs) and I love the stiffness. All you people out there who complain about how hard aluminum bikes are on your rear are sitting down to much! My freind who helped me put it together rides one of those $2000 titanium bikes and he's always very impressed with the quality of my bike that cost half as much.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Pacifica, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 23, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Durable
Weaknesses:
Paint chips easy
Bike Setup:
Manitu EFC front fork,Diacomp V-brakes,Gripshift,XTR front derailler,LX rear derailler,Suntour XC pro crankset, Michelin wildgripper lite s tires.
Bottom Line:
The bike is very reliable and responsive. I just raced it in the Seaotter Classic XC race,(I finished 10th), and did not have one single problem with any part of the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rider
a
from city Date Reviewed: February 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Weaknesses:
Geometry is not compatible with long travel forks in my opinion... i ran a 100mm fork and it jacked the front up and caused to much setback of the seat and poor stearing qualities... i have since run this fork on a y-22 and a khs team softtail without those problems.
Similar Products Used:
Y-22, khs team st
Bottom Line:
this thing is now my campus/commuter bike with a kona rigid fork and a slew of 7-sp. stuff and thats what its best suited for...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Orange County, CA Date Reviewed: January 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Bottom Line:
I purchased an Access Alu in 1992 and rode it for five years before the headtube cracked. I can't say enough about this frame. For the money, this is one of the best hardtail frames around. Highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
QUIQUE
a Cross-Country Rider
from EL SALVADOR Date Reviewed: January 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Madre Selva. S.S. EL SALVADOR
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good bargain Great geometry and aluminiun
Weaknesses:
Poor decals cheap paint weak derailleur hanger
Similar Products Used:
TREK 4000
Bike Setup:
RS Judy XC (80 MM) XTR,XT,LX,SUN RIMS
Bottom Line:
For the price ($198), and with good components, you obtain a real great ride. It results a real bargain.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Damon
a cross-country rider
from New London, CT Date Reviewed: November 9, 1998
Bottom Line:
This frame is a great value. It's sold exclusively at Supergo for about $200. I bought this frame last summer looking for a cheap frame to build on. After riding a Cro-Moly frame for the past year this one was quite a difference. Much lighter. The frame is stiff, and climbs well. I've outfitted it with XT components and now I have a decent ride. So if you're looking for a good value in a frame, this one is it. Five chilies for value.
Overall Rating:
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