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Submitted by
Robert
a Weekend Warrior
from South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere around Lake Tahoe | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction Bicycles | | Strengths: | Lightweight, nimble, proven hard tail and motorcycle-style front suspension. I bought the extra-small (XS) Race Lite, since I'm only 5'3" (160cm) tall. The short tubes on a bike my size already make the bike stiffer, so I steered away from stiff alloy frames. Rear suspension design was still in its infancy in 1997, and I didn't want to get something I couldn't get parts for later on. This was an excellent decision, as rear suspensions are still very much in an experimental stage ten years later, and it's impossible to get parts for full suspension bikes that are even 2-3 years old. In summary, this bike has proven that I was right: It will never become obsolete. Another plus is that it's lighter than a full-suspension bike. | | Weaknesses: | 1" steerer tube. Fortunately, Marzocchi still makes them, albeit for a small fortune. You can't put disc brakes on it. | | Similar Products Used: | I tried a handmade Ritchey a few years before I could afford one, and it was really sweet; even with solid forks.
I tried various incarnations of Stumpjumpers over a five-year period that weren't bad. | | Bike Setup: | Totally stock, with two exceptions. At my size (5'3"/160cm), I'm at the tall end of fitting the extra-small, and at the short end for the small. I liked the exra-small a tiny bit more. So, the shop swapped a longer Bontrager seat post and a ZOOM gooseneck for the stock parts. | | Bottom Line: | Ten years after purchasing it I can still get replacements for every part on it, though a new fork would be over $700. I haven't needed to replace anything yet. I bought it with the expectation that it would be the last mountain bike I ever buy for myself. I've been raising a family, so haven't had so much time to take it on trails, but this thing is so light and nimble, it's like riding an expensive road bike with knobby tires. I've been pulling a bike trailer with either my own or friends' toddlers in tow with it, and my friends not pulling trailers have difficulty keeping up with me. If I ever see one of these in small or extra-small; even just a frame; I'm going to snatch it for my sons. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Palmer
a Weekend Warrior
from UK
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Global Fridge (the UK distributor) | | Strengths: | Simple, bombproof, plainly sexy, responsive (it's like it's hardwired into my brain). An absolute classic. | | Weaknesses: | Rust and the 1" steerer. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Pace forks, Shimano XT, Mavic wheels. | | Bottom Line: | Mine is one of the ultra rare XXXL 'basketball player special' Race frames (I'm 6'7" tall!!!). It fits like a dream, rides superbly, accelerates like a demon on speed and descends quickly enoough to scare me periodically. In the UK I ride weekend orienteering events. At one event a fully suspended, hard-riding dude came hurtling past, slowed down until I'd caught up and said "cool Bontrager" before riding off. You know what; he's right. I sincerely hope my frame outlasts me 'cos I don't intend to replace it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Bay Area, CA
Date Reviewed: August 7, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Encino Bicycles, Concord | | Strengths: | feel, responsiveness | | Weaknesses: | Steel is not impervious to rust! Not a lot of choices up front. | | Similar Products Used: | '90 Bridgestone semi high-end steel. closest thing I could find to the feel of the Bontrager in 1990 for under $800. | | Bike Setup: | stock XT/Judy plus White hubs, Mavic rims | | Bottom Line: | This is absolutely the best bicycle ever made. If you are an experienced mountain biker, you will love this bike. Bought a new Race Light in 1997 (last chance), it has now been my favorite for 15 years. I never have to go to bike stores anymore except for the Phil Grease and such. I just don't care what is going on gear-wise as I know I have the best bike (frame) ever. I only have to think about where I want to go and this thing is there. Nimble is the word. Nothing else feels this natural. Keith, please make some more. I want my friends to have them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shaun Fogarty
a Cross Country Rider
from Bay Area
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt ones | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | bontrager | | Strengths: | Still working like the day I first put it together. Light, durable, and a good value... I have a late Santa Cruz shop race light and I love it. The steel ride is my cup of tea, it is a predictable yet quick handler and only gets sketcy when it gets pointed downhill at a steep angle on bumpy stuff, but it more that makes up for that on all the time i spend climbing and riding on every other sort of terrain. I put a pretty big chunk of change into this bike and it did not fall apart or become obsolete, no matter what mr cunningham had to say about steel or hardtails. A honest well thought out product with the end user in mind. | | Weaknesses: | I try to avoid letting it happen, but water and my sweat do take a toll on the steel. 1" has proved to be a surmountable hassle, but a bit of a pain. a little short for me. | | Similar Products Used: | kona, trek, giant, santa cruz.... | | Bike Setup: | xt-xtr, king. | | Bottom Line: | One of the best products I have ever purchased. Keeps on giving. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Fraser
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | hartland MTB park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1.00 | | Purchased At: | N/A | | Strengths: | best frame ever made | | Weaknesses: | can't think of any | | Similar Products Used: | rocky mountain, brodie, Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | N/A | | Bottom Line: | Okay folks. I need help finding info about Bontrager frame specs and geometry.
As I can no longer buy a new frame, I am having a custom one built. Years ago I had a race-lite (think it was a small). I am 5' 9" in height, so it may have in fact been a medium. If someone who owns a medium and someone who owns a small can take frame mesaurements and email that would make my day. As all the reviews state, this is the sweetest hardtail ever made. It climbed like a goat, got air like a hawk, and it was part of you.
Thanks in advance everyone. If you are going to send the frame specs, please email them to me directly sfraser@deckersinc.com. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mario
a Cross Country Rider
from Randolph, VT USA
Date Reviewed: May 22, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | frasier park, ks; mari castle, vt | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | can't remember bike shop, minneapolis | | Strengths: | light, tough, durable, adorably simple, easy to ride, fast, not an f/s, rare, cool, et al. | | Weaknesses: | not made anymore | | Similar Products Used: | trek 7000 | | Bike Setup: | xt/xtr/raceface cranks,bb/rs judy xc/onza hox pedals/bontrager rims, saddle, stem/ primal levers | | Bottom Line: | you can't find a better bike on the market. for all you f/s lovers, my humble opinion is that nothing beats a steel hardtail, and keith made one heck of a frame, no doubt about it. it handles singletrak like nothin' else and even going downhill, which is not my strength, it is a beast. quite the steed!!! OH KEITH, PLEASE MAKE MORE!!! if you want to experience mountain biking at its truest level, buy one, even if used. do it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob Uetrecht
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR, USA
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Waldo Lake | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Mt. Bachelor Bike (when they sold bikes) | | Strengths: | Climbs like a goat, snakes through single track, accelerates effortlessly, descends deftly, and is plainly beautiful. | | Weaknesses: | Not made anymore.
| | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper, Barracuda AT2, Yeti, Marin, many others. | | Bike Setup: | Sram 9.0 SL, XTR, XT, Crossmax, Marzocchi Marathon SL (yes an '03 SL, hence my need to write this review)
| | Bottom Line: | I have two Ti-lites (one for me and on for my wife). My goal in writing this review is to let people know that the 1" steerer is not a hopeless weakness. Folks, forks are available! Check out Phattire.com. The fellow there specializes in 1" steerer tubed bikes. If you go to the site you will see that all 80mm travel Marzocchi forks come in 1" steerers. Call him before you even think of cutting a head tube! I bought 2 Marathon SL's from him last year. He is in the know! He will set you up with all the necessities (headsets, stems, bars etc).
I can't say anything about the ride that hasn't already been said. I love my ride and all of you with old, dated, flexy forks can find hope. Why, Keith, did you have to abandon the best hard tail ever made??????
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brent Van Eps
a Cross Country Rider
from Rancho Cucamonga
Date Reviewed: January 23, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | pauley creek downieville,ca | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Montrose Bike Shop | | Strengths: | still not broken, excellent singletrack handling, super tough paint job, I don't think a stronger bike has been made. mine is a xl race lite | | Weaknesses: | 1 inch headtube, that is all and back when I bought it it wasn't a problem at all | | Similar Products Used: | fat chance yo eddy, talon slayer x frame, dean titanium | | Bike Setup: | The last setup was race face prodigy crank sram 9.0 drivetrain xtr hubs on 517 revolution spoked wheels, sycip custom rigid fork, king headset, flat bar, speedplay frogs | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up to my older review .The bontrager is retired for now. I will never make it a singlespeed, singlespeeds are lame, way too trendy you lemmings. You know you want gears. Anyway the 1 inch headtube is the downfall. I was unable to get anyone to do anything but rigid in 1 inch and the 1 inch marzocchi mx comp I tried was awful. Heavy and sticky. I will be getting a Rock lobster steel frame soon with a manitou skareb fork. It is the closest I could find to my old Bontrager. I had to strip my Bontrager for parts to put on my new frame so it now hangs unridden and alone. Absolutley the best bike I ever owned though but I am too old and my wrists are too to ride rigid forks off road anymore. Someday she will ride again, but not for now. Bye Bye old friend. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dror Regev
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, Ca
Date Reviewed: January 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Saratoga Gap | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Outfitter | | Strengths: | Geometry, confidence inspiring handling, life span/durability, "soft tail steel ride", Paint/stickers and minimum maintenace and adjustment. | | Weaknesses: | 1" steerer tube, chain suck in lightly muddy conditions. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500, multiple old dualley test rides and lately 2003 Trek Fuel 98 FS | | Bike Setup: | 97 Privateer Comp with original full XT, stock old Bontrager wheels, seat post and saddle, new 2004 Marzocchi MX Comp (replaced the Judy XC), Chris King HS, Ritchey WCs Stem and handlebar. I have purchased but installed yet the Cane Creek Thudbuster seat post yet. | | Bottom Line: | Thanks to the many reviewers who take the time to update and post. It was very helpfull reading other's reviewes and surely help my late decision to spend almost $750 upgrading my fork and adding the seat post. It is my turn to add some feedback.
1. The original bike is legendary for a reason. It is great fun to ride and support even older ridders (almost 43) with stiffer bones. The handling and soft tail feeling are great and hard to beat. I've demoed twice a new Fuel 98 from a friend and am sure that the bontrager is much more fun even down hill in 99% of trails and terrains. The only problem (was not there when the bike was new but very consistent now) is the chain suck in muddy condittions. This can be very painfull especially when friends with less legendary names experience no chain issue in the same conditions. Currently the only remedy is changing my bad shifting habbits and it holds fairly well since I tried it.
2. Marzocchi upgrade was done after the old Judy XC gave up 2 months ago at the Demostration Forrest trail. After that the rides were traumatic for my arms and I had to give up this great bike or upgrade. After reading all the reviewes I had no doubt I was ready for the upgrade which I am very happy with. I have looked into the option of changing the tube to 1 1/8 (~$350) but understood that the geometry will change a bit and decided to go with the only option I saw. I have ridden the bike only 3 times after the upgrade and it is clear that the bike is heavier to carry (not to ride in any way) despite the Chris King and Ritchy WCS top end products I added. The ride is extremely plusher and faster down hill on rough terrain and I can't wait to add the Thudbuster to the equation (waiting on a nut). The climbes with the new shock and furthermore the out off saddle attacks, introduced me to mr. bob which I knew formerly only from other's reviewes or my FS experiences. I'll try to ride with higher air pressure to see if the bob gain worth the loss of some plushness. I have talked much about the little issues I've experienced just to help others but the bike is realy great and I can't even think of departing from them. All the great reviewes are well put and the Bontrager legend is alive. Happy trails. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Hiestand
a Cross Country Rider
from Toledo, OH. USA
Date Reviewed: November 24, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | potowatomi trail MI | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | bikeworks, sylvania OH. | | Strengths: | Excellent build quality, beautiful(but durable)paint, Classic Frameset, Santa Cruz built, Outstanding Ride. | | Weaknesses: | 1 inch headtube...but can be worked with* | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized stumpjuper, Specialized rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Full XT drivetrain, XTR V-brakes, Valient rims built w/ XTR hubs & DT revolution spokes, Judy SL with englund air, Ritchey bars, Salsa stem, King headset, Specialized tires, U.S.E. suspension post, Flite saddle. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this frame back in 1998 while Santa Cruz had 3 left in my size 'S'(according to the shop). It represented my dream frame at the time...that belief still holds true 6 years later. What has been said by the majority of reveiwers is absolutely true. This bike handles telepathically at speed on rolling singletrack. It climbs like a demon on WV singletrack and fire roads. It descends predictably and is resilient enough to take the edge off the trail-even w/o the suspension post. In short, I believe strongly that there is no finer handling hardtail to be found. If you find one do not let the 1" head tube keep you from buying. It takes a little cash, and some hunting for the parts, but you can build up a nice light fork for this superior frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
shaun
a Cross Country Rider
from moss beach
Date Reviewed: October 19, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt ones | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | doug's | | Strengths: | works great, easy on the body, very well engineered, fab geometry, looks like a cool bike... | | Weaknesses: | the 1" inch head tube problem can be overcome, but it is a hinderance. it really is too bad these frames, and whatever was coming next out of that santa cruz shop are not. | | Similar Products Used: | lots of flavor of the month stuff, some of it very good. i have really not enjoyed aluminum bikes. | | Bike Setup: | xt front der , xtr rr reat der, xt hollowtech cranks, 2002 zokes super flys, chris king hs, chris king and valinant wheels... um, rock shox seat post, im a wus. | | Bottom Line: | i have saved so much money by ignoring fasion/corporate hores like cuningham and the bike wreckeing crewwe who insist you got to replace your bike every month. this bike works great, and show no inclination to quit doing so. i squirt anti rust stuff in it and slaather grease on the exterior rust prone bits and it keeps working. i wish i could haave a xl long instead of a xl for my monkey clide self. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trip
a Cross Country Rider
from Tunbridge, VT
Date Reviewed: September 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | Beautiful welds. Supple ride. Handles like a dream. Has most of the benefits of Ti with none of the drawbacks of Al. | | Weaknesses: | If you're nit picky, you won't like the stickers that peel off after a while. "Anti-chain suck thing" doesn't work for an XT MicroDrive set up. | | Similar Products Used: | This was my first steel frame after riding a Cannondale M1000 for two years. | | Bike Setup: | XT deraillurs. XT cranks. Chris King headset. Mag 21 (yes I'm about to upgrade). Grip Shift. Syncros seatpost. Control Tech stem. Avid TriAlign calipers. Salsa skewers. Machine tech front hub. XT rear hub. Selle Ittalia Flite saddle. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this Race frame back in '95 and it is totally bomb proof. Bomb proof frame with double gussets for strength and a sweet arse ride. After 8 years of riding it into the ground and it's none the worse for wear, I'm buying another steel frame and upgrading some of my components to modern tech stuff. If you're looking for on Old School Classic Ride look no further. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from Waterloo, IA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 4, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | The dirt ones | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Mark's basement | | Strengths: | Quality geometry. Feel of real steel. Dreamy, thinking-not-required handling. Well placed gussets. | | Weaknesses: | That derned 1" head tube...why did all the fork manufacturers close the door on us!! Would have been super cool with a custom headbadge. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher hardtail, Trek hardtail, Schwinn hardtail, Specialized hardtail | | Bike Setup: | 1x8 speed setup with the infernal Judy XC, Paul brakes and levers | | Bottom Line: | Without a doubt, the best handling bike I've ever ridden. The only thing that comes close in my experience was the Gary Fisher Marlin (rigid) I had, but that pales by comparison. I almost don't even think about riding this bike, it's like an extension of my own body. It knows where to go far before I know where to aim it.
It is a very lively climber and yet not too sketchy on downhill sections. The choice of 4130 CrMo was maybe the best part of this quality build. Not too flexy, not too rigid, just the perfect steel ride. It is what all bikes should ride like.
I am really wishing that the fork manufacturers had not left the 1" frames out to dry. Maybe in light of it, I will buy a nice rigid fork for it and forget suspension altogether...it's not like anyone really needs it anyway??
I wish that KB could have kept this part of his business afloat! It is truly dismal that a bike with a ride quality such as this was swallowed up by Trek and discontinued forever. I will not forget, for my Bonny will live on forever. If you can find one in your size, BUY IT!! You will not be disappointed! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mason
a Cross Country Rider
from Sunnyvale, South SF Bay Area, CA
Date Reviewed: July 30, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction | | Strengths: | A perfect bike. Takes singlestrack to a whole new level; climbs like a home-sick angel. Fun, light, fun, rare, fun, fast, and... uh.... fun. | | Weaknesses: | I believe it is sacriledge to say "Weaknesses" and "Bontrager" in the same sentence.
Actually, in stock form, the bike has a 1-inch headtube, and thus a horrible Judy on it. However.... | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Attitude Pro, Superlight, and a few one-time rides. | | Bike Setup: | XTR, Dave's Speed Dream wheels (the best!), SID World Cup (that's not a typo, read on). Geax Hubi slicks (the best!), Chris King, Thomson. 22.5 lbs, and it could be 1-2 pounds lighter. | | Bottom Line: | Admittedly this is the only real mountain bike I've ever owned. However, I've ridden many others, and had this Bontrager Race Lite for five years and thousands of miles. Just a note: I am reviewing MY bike, in it's current form, with the new fork and great wheels, as opposed to it's stock form (which I haven't ridden in almost five years). I just doesn't get any better than this.
The only problem w/ old (and REAL, pre-Trek) Bontragers is the 1-inch headtube. However, there's a guy in Santa Cruz (Paul @ Rock Lobster Cycles), who will hack off the old headtube, put on a 1 1/8 incher, give it a beautiful paint job, and put some real Bontrager stickers on it for only a couple hundred dollars. Considering the fact that this bike is a screaming deal to begin with, it has a horrible stock fork, it will last almost forever, and it's one of the greatest ever built, I thought this was the greatest thing since sliced bread. The new SID World Cup on it completes the bike, making it THE greatest ever built.
Many other bikes must be man-handled and forced through singletrack. Others can get by in singletrack. Many make singletrack fun. This bike disappears, becomes one with the rider, and simulates flying a very, very low altitude jet, on rails, through trees. I won't bash this bike for being bad at something it was in no way designed to do; so I'll say that on really bouncy, steep, loose fireroads, it's fine. My slicks are light, fast-rolling, and rail singletrack, but are not so good on loose stuff.
Climbing frequently becomes a pleasure (yes, I'm one of *those* guys-the weird ones). The bike is so light, with such good geometry, it fairly eats up hills. Long grinders, technical singletrack uphills w/ switchbacks galore, they all fall prey to the Bontrager. I can concentrate on my body, what I'm doing wrong, thinking about the climb, etc., instead of thinking how much I hate lugging my bike uphill, and loathing whoever invented uphills.
Long rides are not a problem. The steel soaks up all the little trails vibrations, only requiring the rider to stand on really bike stuff. I once had a rider w/ a Sugar Team edition (something like 3.5 inches rear travel) ask me (on the steel hardtail), "How can you sit down for so long on the singletrack?" Apparently it's smoother than some dual suspenders. I was once again impressed w/ the old Bonty. On the other hand (don't ask me how Keith does all this), the bike is generally snappy when need be. When I rode the Klein (an aluminum bike known for being VERY stiff), I noticed very little difference in acceleration and responsiveness in turns, compared w/ the Bonty. But the Klein was much more painful over long rides. I'm tellin' ya, there's magic in a Santa Cruz-built Bontrager. There's no other way to describe it.
It feels weird to finally review this bike after I've had it so long, and it isn't made anymore, but I figure some lucky guy or girl will find one of these gems, overlook the old part groupo, take it home, love it, ride it, upgrade it, and love it some more.
PS- If I've missed something, assume the Bonty does it REALLY well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Fhlug
a Cross Country Rider
from Gwinn, Michigan, USA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Anderson Lake | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Strengths: | I bought a new Bontrager Race Lite frame. I found it last OCtober from a person selling it on this site in the classified. This bike is light, handles like a dream! It goes on rails. This Bike Rocks! Climbs like a Billy goat! | | Weaknesses: | Not made anymore | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 Trek 8000, Trek 930 | | Bike Setup: | Marzzochi fork, Full XTR drivetrain, Mavic 517 w/ Bontrager Revolt Super X tires converted to tubeless with Stan's NoTubes. Easton Carbon bar, Avid Single Digit 7 Brakes,Thomson Stem and Seatpost,Time Atac pedals, Bontrager saddle. | | Bottom Line: | Too bad it is not made anymore. Steel Hardtails by K.B. are the best! I love it!. It rides like a dream, handles like a train on rails, and climbs like a Billy Goat. Since Ibuilt this bike the way I wanted it, it gets % flaming chili's all the way around. I recoomend anyone to buy a Bontrager. Find one and buy it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
R Nielson
a Cross Country Rider
from Mesa, Az USA
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Amasa Back | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Alter Ego Bike Merchant | | Strengths: | intense geometry, freaking light, strong design | | Weaknesses: | 1" heatube, but not really if you convert the old Marzocchi bomber pinch bolt crowns. | | Similar Products Used: | Kelly, Elizabeth, Shelly. Ok really KELLY DELUXE, & KHS TEAM | | Bike Setup: | XT/Avid, Nuke Proof TI wheels, Marzocchi Bomber, Race Face | | Bottom Line: | sweetest xc hardtail ride I've experieced, it's used and retro and still ROCKS! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brent van eps
a Cross Country Rider
from rancho cucamonga, ca
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | pauley creek downieville, ca | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | montrose bike shop | | Strengths: | very strong, excellent technical bike, it is green. | | Weaknesses: | 1 inch headtube, no longer made | | Similar Products Used: | fat chance yo eddy. talon slayer. extreme punisher. dean titanium | | Bike Setup: | varies from year to year. currently sram 9.0 esp with xtr 517 wheels revolution spokes race face crank old manitou fork | | Bottom Line: | by far the best bike i have used for technical singletrack riding. mine is a race lite in xl and for me it is stiff enough but very springy at speed. it has a feel you wont find on many other bikes. it is a shame it is no longer made. i plan on upgrading to the marzocchi mx comp fork soon and get a threadless stem and convert my king headset. i am thinking of a steelman frame down the road but i will always keep cherish and ride my bontrager. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brent van eps
a Cross Country Rider
from rancho cucamonga, ca
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | pauley creek downieville, ca | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | montrose bike shop | | Strengths: | very strong, excellent technical bike, it is green. | | Weaknesses: | 1 inch headtube, no longer made | | Similar Products Used: | fat chance yo eddy. talon slayer. extreme punisher. dean titanium | | Bike Setup: | varies from year to year. currently sram 9.0 esp with xtr 517 wheels revolution spokes race face crank old manitou fork | | Bottom Line: | by far the best bike i have used for technical singletrack riding. mine is a race lite in xl and for me it is stiff enough but very springy at speed. it has a feel you wont find on many other bikes. it is a shame it is no longer made. i plan on upgrading to the marzocchi mx comp fork soon and get a threadless stem and convert my king headset. i am thinking of a steelman frame down the road but i will always keep cherish and ride my bontrager. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
G.
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Collins, CO
Date Reviewed: April 15, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lory State Park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Blue Bonnet Bicycles | | Strengths: | Swizneeet Rizzide. It is THE classic steel hardtail. Max zoot points. | | Weaknesses: | Well, it doesn't have 5' (I know that's five feet) of travel. | | Similar Products Used: | steel Specialized Rockhopper, Uzzi SL. | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi, XT/XTR drivetrain, Raceface cranks. . . | | Bottom Line: | These are GREAT frames. I gave mine a rave review years ago and the only thing I'd revise is the number of exclamation points!!!!!!! The only reason I'm re-reviewing it now is to say:
If you're considering "upgrading" to a newer fork (i.e. one of the 1" Marzocchi's) GO FOR IT (check out phattire.com). I had one of those OLD Judy's with the Bontrager specific black crown. If you want my old Judy parts, just e-me for price$, because I don't want them any more. The switch to a Marzocchi didn't seem to affect the handling significantly, but the suspension qualities did improve drastically.
If you're reading this now, you're probably looking at purchasing a used bike. I bought my 1996 model "lightly" used race frame with an xt front deraileur, Judy fork, xt headset(threaded), titec quill stem, gripshift shifters, and a race handlebar for $600 in 1998. Good luck with your wheelings and dealings. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sante
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | UCSC backside/Braille | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$225.00 | | Purchased At: | Friend | | Strengths: | steel, exceptionally made | | Weaknesses: | no complaints | | Similar Products Used: | old Jamis explorer, Old custom bonties, various other crap | | Bike Setup: | 99' judy xc W/risse gem | | Bottom Line: | This frame is the $hit. It rides great. I have a large and if anything I'd say it's a bit small for me (I'm 6'-0"), but it's so much fun. It handles well, jumps well, climbs well. It's very flexy, but I happen to like this attribute. It seems to float over things. I've ridden this bike hard for two years and it's still going strong.
I kind of wish that I could use an updated fork, but half the fun of the bike is that it's classic. Don't buy one if you like the latest technology (1" and no disc brakes on this baby). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
shaun
a Cross Country Rider
from moss beach ca
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | 3 of em. | | Strengths: | Still current geometry, unsurpassed build quality, very well enginerred, all those gussets in all the right places, the feel of steel... somehow owning something that was built to do exactly what it does without any interferance from marketing forces, manufacturing difficulty, or unproven design ideas. | | Weaknesses: | i wish it were 1 !/4" so people would not retire them. | | Similar Products Used: | I've jumped on a few other bikes, they were almost all aluminum, which I did not like the feel of. I tried the Y/Joshua bikes a couple of years ago and thought they sucked. Mark Hoffmman's bikes are eally cool though. I rode a Hunter and liked it alott. | | Bike Setup: | blah blah. zokes, they work really well and the customer service is great when they go down for a bit. | | Bottom Line: | I'll get a TI one so that when the rust cathches up I'll still have one. If I ever ruin one I want to sand bast it and clear coat it and put it on the wall. They so well thought out it is inspirational for my design work. They are the steel benchmark. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
White Trash
a Downhiller
from Ipswich,Summit county, Ft. Collins
Date Reviewed: March 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Down | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$10000000.00 | | Purchased At: | Boston | | Strengths: | Been beatin' the hell out of this thing for almost 7 (yeah, 7) years, finally cracked it at the junction of the seattube & wishbone thing last April, a quick weld made it stronger than ever...There was no way in hell that I was ever gonna give this frame up. It can handle big drops and rough sh*t , Of course, it's a steel bike so working it over is alot of fun 'cause you know it won't fold and it is really responsive, solid and deliberate. I would rather have someone steal my car than steal this bike. | | Weaknesses: | How come everyone is crying about the 1" thing? Its a classic, look a bit harder for parts... It's beter than buying some aluminum swill... Oh yeah, the trek thing. What a sad thing, they took the name of one of the finest frames in the world, and slapped it on some carny hunk of garbage that I wouldn't be seen on in public. | | Similar Products Used: | no comparison | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi, XTR, Cook bros. Big mammoths, Monkeylite, avid | | Bottom Line: | justfu**ingride!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aurora York
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbus
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | city has one good bike trail only, so used on road mostly | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | bought through the mail form Chicago | | Strengths: | Light,top-end, flexible, comfortable steel made into a supreme bike! I won't ever buy anything else, but steel! | | Weaknesses: | I tried a top of the line Specialized and felt it was much more responsive steering-wise, but too painful to ride. So back it went! Luckily, I found Bontragers and was able to buy one for myself! The Bontrager I have doesn't have a lot of finesse with it's steering or going down hills, but you just kinda go with it and boy, does it take you on one hell of a ride! Now, I'm just wondering, what I'll buy for a road bike, since Bontagers are not made anymore? What will I do? :( | | Similar Products Used: | Top of the line Specialized and Cannondales | | Bike Setup: | XT and it does well. But going to wear it all out and then have fun upgrading! | | Bottom Line: | Bought this Bontrager Race, one of the last CA ones, and have been very happy. Comfortable, fairly fast nimble ride, and get lots of compliments! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hallvard Nødtvedt
a Cross Country Rider
from Norway
Date Reviewed: May 13, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Light, stiff,it's rare, geometry | | Weaknesses: | rust, 1' steerer | | Similar Products Used: | C'dale F1000
| | Bike Setup: | XTR, Chris King, Syncros,'98 Judy SL | | Bottom Line: | I bought a used Race Lite last summer, and I have no regrets what so ever. I love this bike. It handles like a dream, cuts corners like greased lightning. It's light and agile, I'll never get rid of this bike. When I'm not able to ride no more, I'm going to hang my bontragerframe on the wall. This bike frame simply rocks. OK, it's not the best frame for the hardcore downhiller, but for cross country riders this is the ultimate overall frame. The 1' steertube might also be a problem, but after several weeks of asking all the suspensionforkmanufacturers in the world(almost), I'm now about to get my hands on a brand new Pace RC38. YIHAA! I haven't tried any other steel bikes, but why should I? My bonty delivers. Simply as that.
If you see one, buy it no matter what. Even if you have to borrow the money. I give this frame all the red hot flamin' chilies in the whole wide world. It's DOMINATING! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mr Walker
a Weekend Warrior
from Edinburgh, Scotland
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Glentres Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | Super-light single-track steel. | | Weaknesses: | 1" headset | | Similar Products Used: | Lots: Salsa, Trek, GT | | Bike Setup: | Pace RC-38, XTR, Bonty bits | | Bottom Line: | So well balanced, I've never ridden a bike which promotes confidence like my Race Lite.
No signs of any problems at all, aside from the limitations of a 1" headset. Pace are a Brit company making the forks I wanted anyway so it's no real problem.
Needless to say if it goes pear shaped I'll be scouring the classifieds for another. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
simon
a Weekend Warrior
from new york
Date Reviewed: December 1, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | cool steel | | Weaknesses: | availability
1" headset | | Similar Products Used: | 98 independedent fabrications
98 spooky
92 cdale
91 yeti ultimate
89 stumpjumper sworks steel | | Bike Setup: | 95 bonty race OR
98 judy sl
king headset
cross country setup with xt throughout | | Bottom Line: | this bike is one of the best ever
super tough frame with a lot of great details
great ride
great quality
the angles are pretty steep, and the top tube comes out shorter than most, so if you want that moto feel then this is not really it - this is more precision singletrack than high speed, and with decent tires it is as sharp as they come...
more lively than the indy fab
smaller and tighter than the other bikes i've had - overall, i prefer the yeti steel bikes - slower, more stable
but if nimble and tough is your thing, then the bontrager is the one for you!
by the way, bycycle habitat in new york has some brand new frames still...and you can get marzocchi forks in the 1" for the frames too.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
eric
a Weekend Warrior
from cincinnati
Date Reviewed: July 25, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Light for steel, made in usa, fast, stiff rear. | | Weaknesses: | Trek closed down the bontrager frame shop after they were bought out. Not really a weakness in the actual quality of the product. | | Similar Products Used: | Two other junk steel frames, specialized stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | Judy xc, xt/lx components, bonty crowbar/stem/seatpost/rims. | | Bottom Line: | If you can find one, buy it. I've been riding mine for three months now, and have loved every ride. The wishbone rear stays are plenty stiff, however, doesn't pound on your tail bone. The true temper ox 2 steel tubing has a very nice ride to it. Nice welds too. There are gussets at the head/top/bottom tubes which make the front very stiff. Even guys that ride slalom would find it plenty stiff. The bike is the fastest hardtail i've ever ridden, and corners well too. It steers a little slow in tight stuff, but maybe thats just me not used to the geometry. The frame may look small at first sight, but thats because of the engineering that goes into the frame. Keith Bontrager uses steeper angles and smaller triagles to create a stronger frame. Another nice add on, is the built in anti, chain suck device. Overall this bike is a great do-it all ride. Trials, slalom, and xc have been fun on this bike. If i had to choose one bike i'd be a bontrager frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ian Leitch
a Racer
from London England
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Jura Mountains France | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | I bought the Race Light last year, wanting a road bike but not wanting the roady mentality. Step up the Bontrager Road Lite. One of the last true Bonty's before the Trek sell out. Sloping top tube mtb style makes you feel still a mtber at heart and as for the frames responses they are excellent. Resilience is the word, a carbon frame would be more direct but the Bonty winds up to speed pretty damned quickly and stays there. After the ride check out the tiny gussetts and monostay - works of art. | | Weaknesses: | Frame comes up fairly small. No longer available. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Full Ultegra Flight Deck with various MTB related components. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike if you can source one. Ride a subtle, very quick and MTB influenced road bike - I know that was important to me as a big off roader. A number of people I know are building up their late 80's machines into retro steeds, this is a classic bike in the same vein which one can only take pleasure from riding.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
William
a Cross Country Rider
from Plymouth, NH
Date Reviewed: April 4, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Steel is still the best. Nimble. Sweet welds and classic look! | | Weaknesses: | 1" STEERER!! The rust factor. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, Cannondale, GT-all pale in comparison. | | Bike Setup: | XTR. KING. CONTI. MAVIC 220. SYNCROS. | | Bottom Line: | Steel is the material great bikes are made of. Keith (Bontrager) really knew what he was doing when he created this powerful, tight, light, and beautiful beast. I picked up my Santa Cruz-made Race for 400 bucks and haven't looked back since.
The only problem is the availability of 1" diameter forks nowadays. The 2000 SIDs and JUDYs don't come in 1" diameter so it is being completely phased out. This is the only reason I gave it 4 out of 5 'Flamin Chilis'. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
oliver
a Cross Country Rider
from uk
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Bottom Line: | i bought a privateer s last summer, this is my first mb as i rode only on the road before and i couldn't believe what
FUN it is to ride this bike ..seeing the ratings i know why. if you want to start mbiking buy this bike as long as you can still get it and you'll love this wonderful sport! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darren Weagly
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore MD
Date Reviewed: February 27, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Avalon | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Geometry - Durability - Unique - Overall Feel | | Weaknesses: | Geometry - Rust - 1" Headset | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain Blizzard - Klein Attitude - Dual Suspension Bikes - IF Deluxe | | Bike Setup: | Race Face Cranks, Handlebar, Seatpost - Bontrager Race Wheels, Rock Shox SID, Time ATAC's | | Bottom Line: | I rode a Bontrager Race back in 1995, but didn't have the money to build one up. Finally bought one of the last frames left in 1999, and built it up with some nice parts.
It has a unique geometry...I think it's a 74 degree seat tube, combined with a steep headtube angle...so it is a quick steerer, which is real useful for the singetrack around here. The downside is I sometimes feel a little too upright, and can't lay it out and sprint as fast as I could on my old Klein.
I chose steel because you can repair it, and it is certainly more gentle than my aluminum bikes. Because you can repair it, I have less hesitation of catching air and doing drop-offs. By the way, I'm 6'2" and 210 lbs, and the Bontrager Race wheels have held up great. Mountain Biking in Baltimore isn't the North Shore or anything, but we definitely have some rough trails and the wheels have done great.
The Race Frame is definitely more flexy than other bikes...even other steel bikes. I can see the seat stays bend inwards about 1" when I apply my rear brake. Even at my size, I don't consider this a disadvantage...I feel more comfortable, and the bike just feels like it carves through the trails. Overall, I just feel like I have better control than I did on some other bikes.
The only negative I can mention is the 1" headtube. However, in June 99 it only took my bike shop 1 day to find a 1" SID fork, so hopefully it will never be a real issue. Also, maybe it's my imagination, but I seem to go over my handlebars a little more often than I did on my old bikes, and I wonder if it has something to do with the steep head angle? Maybe I'm just taking more chances now.....
Finally, I've never seen another soul on a Bontrager Race or Race Lite in the entire area, so it is definitely a unique bike to have. Now if only my riding skills would match the quality of bike I've chosen, I'd be set.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elliott Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from College Station, TX
Date Reviewed: October 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
a well maintained one | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Do you want a Bontrager frame | | Weaknesses: |
do you want a Bontrager frame | | Similar Products Used: |
do you want a bontrager frame | | Bike Setup: |
do you want a bontrager frame | | Bottom Line: | I posted a letter a month ago about a bunch of Bonte. frames that are still for sale. They are the RACE frame. the diff. is weight. 3.7vs4.0 pounds. They still have some left. You need to go to a Gary fisher of Lemond dealer to get them easily. But a trek dealer may work as a back up. You also need ot order a 12.99 vbrake kit ot replace the bosses on the frame so you can use v-brakes. If your old school you'll be just fine. e-mail me at jonesen69@juno.com if needed
last I heard you could get one for 495.00 and great deal for a sweet frame. They don't come with stickers on theme either. Need to ask if you want them. it looks cool without them though See ya and enjoy you rides!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mace
a Cross-Country Rider
from South Bay Area CA
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
simply the best
great at every thing
great eyecatcher and conversation piece | | Bike Setup: |
Race Lite Santa Cruz frame, Full XT, Race Lite, Judy XC | | Bottom Line: | This bike is simply the best. I'm writing in small letters because I'm too stoked to write big. The bike rules. Get one if you can. Everything everyone else is saying is true. It's a beauty, its really quite simple, get one. Ride it. Love it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edd
a Cross-Country Rider
from socal
Date Reviewed: June 29, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
El Prieto | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Light, agile, responsive steel frame | | Weaknesses: |
1 steerer tube | | Bike Setup: |
Race Lite,Full XT, Atom Bomb, Bontrager wheels | | Bottom Line: | I used to ride a Gary Fisher Procaliber (OCLV carbon fiber) and I have ridden many different bikes, but nothing compares to a well built steel frame. The Bontrager Race Lite has great geometry, it climbs well and is great for singletrack. I've only owned this bike for a few months now but it fit like a glove on the first ride. If you really like to ride get a good steel frame like the Bontrager. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeffrey Maron
a Cross-Country Rider
from New York New York
Date Reviewed: March 20, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Staten Island | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Ti Lite Bontrager is quick, strong, best handling bike I have ever ridden with zero flex , but while still taking the edge off. | | Weaknesses: |
1 steerer tube other than that none | | Similar Products Used: |
trek, specialized, diamondback, cannodale,klien | | Bike Setup: |
Judy xc with englund air cartridges | | Bottom Line: | The best hardtail there is!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John N. Berning
a cross-country rider
from Louisville, Ky. U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: January 25, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
K.B.'s race light rips through the twisties. Predictable control, climbs like a fiend, ride it ridged or forked up front. Down side a little flexy in the bottom bracket-chain stay area. The frame will take a lot of very hard riding. Wet, muddy,rocky not a problem. Bunny hops great. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colin Ritchie
a cross-country rider
from Walnut Creek, California
Date Reviewed: November 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Model:Race Lite
I decided to wait until I had ridden enough miles before I submitted a review so that I could be as impartial as possible. After riding over 1,500 miles in eight months, both on and off road, I now feel qualified to give an opinion. HOLY COW IS THIS BIKE INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!! I love every second on this bike. I am as excited to ride this bike now as on the day I got it. I ride it to work and on dirt rides after work and on weekends and it is a blast. It climbs like a mountain goat (puts my old Cannondale to shame) cuts down fire roads like some supercross motorcycle and rips single tracks with otherworldly prowess. It is comfortable, reasonably light, quick and I cannot imagine a higher performing bike. I managed to pick up one of the last Santa Cruz frames, but have little doubt that the Trek versions have all the right stuff, as well. I have read mixed reviews about the Rock Shocks Judy XC, but have experienced no problems, myself. It is true that slow hairpin turns are really tricky because of the steep geometry, but I don't mind because the bike is perfectly suited for every other riding situation. I feel like I'm riding the bicycling equivalent of a Ferrari. It really is that good. Buy one and skip the aluminum stuff. Bontragers could be one of the best kept secrets around. 8 hot chili peppers. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
STEPHEN DEAN
a cross-country rider
from CLEVELAND, GA. USA
Date Reviewed: November 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
It's a traditional taste of Bontrager's quality with cromoloy frames. Even from the first impression the Race Lite displays an overall performance level that other companies can not match! To view this bike as a run of the mill steel frame would be a tremendous understatement, the geometry allows a stiff ride for climbs, yet yeilds enough flex for comfort. If you purchase this bike or have the opportunity, don't hesitate! No matter what the components the Race Lite is a winner! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jennifer
a cross-country rider
from Fullerton, CA
Date Reviewed: November 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike (Race Lite) is the greatest! The geometry is excellent for a woman's build. Responsive, light, and stiff without kicking your butt. Great climber. When I am training hard, I ride 5-6 times a week putting in 15-35 miles a ride. It never holds be back! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Lynch
a racer
from Berkeley CA
Date Reviewed: October 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned my RaceLite for 3 years now, and ridden it everywhere. From the west coast to the east, this bike RULES!!! I've raced distances from 10 miles to 35 miles, done 45 mile death training rides, and even completed the White Mountain ride (65 miles, 45 of which are above 10,000 ft, check it out) without ever feeling like the bike was going to kill me.
Stiff, light, responsive and yet not too stiff (i.e. aluminum), whippy, or twitchy.
Built up with an XTR gruppo, Hugi hubs, and Mavic rims, this bike is light !
Geometry is spot-on perfect. Tight enough to simply rip up the singletrack, and stable enough to scream the descents! As a matter of fact, the faster you go in the twisty stuff, the better. This bike is a slut for singletrack.
The only fault I can find is the 1 steer tube somewhat limits your choice of forks. I've been using my Mach-5 crown on my new Manitou fork, so I haven't been effected yet.
THIS BIKE RULES !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crell
a weekend warrior
from Derbyshire, England
Date Reviewed: September 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my 1990 Bontrager Race from new.
Over the years, the components have come and gone, but the frame and Bontrager triple clamp (rigid) forks have stayed.
I've never felt the need to make the switch. I've ridden a lot of suspension forks, but I've never liked the level of flex or lack of lateral rigidity, having spent so much time on what I guess was probably the stiffest front end set up.However, I've just fitted a set of Pace Pro Class forks and these are about as stiff as it gets without a huge weight penalty.As a race frame the Bontrager is ideal, as it is to weekend trail riding.
The one area it doesn't excel is fast downhills (35mph +)- but that's a geometry trade off for a bike that is so good at everything else. For info, my bikes also got a fillet brazed rear triangle, apparently because of initial concerns over strength (totally unfounded), and horizontal dropouts!I'm also riding on prototype bontrager Ti bars and a Ti saddle, which are still going strong (ie old proto kit that I got in about 95 I guess. Overall, I don't think you'll find a better all round frame. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Peterson
a weekend warrior
from Bend, OR
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Yeah, it's only a Privateer, but it's without a doubt the BEST handling MB I've ridden (FWIW, I've been riding off road since before there were MB's - does that make me older than dirt?). My only complaint is that it makes me want to ride faster than my fitness will allow. I'd give it at least 10 stars if I could. I LOVE THIS BIKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Say what you will about Trek, but if they hadn't done the evil deed, I'd never have been able to afford a Bontrager. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thako Harris
a cross-country rider
from Minneapolis, Mn
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
How can I put this best? I love this bike. I use it for everything. I haul kids in Burlies, I commute to work, ride with slicks to get the old heartbeat going and going and going, and ride like crazy on all the trails here in town parks and along the river. No matter what the terrain, the bike flies over it all!
I have an LX group, and a 96 Judy XC, salsa stem and Race lite bar ends. I never have to think about this bike...everything always works. I sprayed the inside with framesaver for worry free riding from now until the year 2030 or whenever.
I just rip on this bike, jump, blast down hills, ride stairways, race busses and roadiesin the city...it never lets me down. It's easy on your back, accelerates like the Road Runner down a mountain blahblahblah. I could type all day and it would basically mean nothing. You have to ride this mother to believe!
I switched to the race frame after 5 years on a trek 850. MAN! what a change! You will notice! Anyone who can find a race, race lite, ti lite get this bike. I know it will be awesome. No comment on the privateers. Seems to be some sort of Trek Bonti for the masses compromise. Less gussets, gaudy colors, sticket to accentuate the previously understated wishbone rear...I could go on forever.It is simply a great, understated, highly effective, beat anybody into the bushes Mountain Bike that can do anything you want it to. Always very stable but stay on your toes quick handling. Enough said!!!Nobel Peace Prize Bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Anderson
a weekend warrior
from madison WI
Date Reviewed: August 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a Bontrager, and also work for TREK. I have a Bontrager Privateer and I must say that I am extremely satisfied with the bike. I almost must say 280 lbs on a bike that is best suited for a rider half is weight, is probably a good reason why the bike broke.... Bontrager all the way..!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Gersib
a racer
from Englewood, CO
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I haven't posted an update in a while, so here it goes. I've been racing my RaceLite all season, and my feeling for the 'Lite is the same as my Race. It kicks ass. Quick handling, compliant, responsive. I just won my first NORBA expert-class NCS on it. I just put a Z2 BAM Bomber on the front to replace the '98 SX-Ti, just to try something different. After riding it this weekend, I can honestly say that both forks are really, really good. The Manitou feels more controlled, the Bomber is plusher and the Bontrager frame, as always, is the standard by which I'll judge all (hardtail) frames by.Some people have asked me if it bums me out that my bike isn't made out of 853. I've ridden a few 853 frames, and while I think it's a cool material, I haven't found an 853 frame that has the same ride qualities of my Bonti. Pretty good... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
T-Hump
a cross-country rider
from Mountains of New Mexico
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Bontrager frame is the standard by which all others are measured! Plane and simple. I have owned several ultimate framesets including Rithcey(nice!),
Klein(overated), Dean(not bad), but none have lived up to my Bontrager Race frame. Granted, I am a big guy (6'5, 195lbs.) and it may have something to do with this. Of all the bikes I have ridden I like my Bontrager best. For my riding style, and where and what I ride it just flat works best. Who cares if it does not cost as much as a small car. It is a shame that KB has given up his
business to the corporate giant. He was one of the best (if not The Best) frame
builder left in the business. If you get a chance to ride a Bontrager frame do it and decide for yourself. If you are like me the alure of the high dollar fancy names will be lost. This is the standard by which others are measured!!
For those worried about open holes in the frame....this helps let out condensation...if you really want to make any frame last a lifetime the only thing to do is use Frame Saver. This stuff flat works. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim Bovinet
a cross-country rider
from Winona, MN
Date Reviewed: June 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Everyone should be sad that Keith Bontrager is no longer in the custom frame business, yet another aquisition of Trek. If every company put a quarter of the effort that Bontrager did into his designs the mountain bike world would be a hundred times better. Is the extra money one spends for a Bontrager worth it? Yes because you are happy with your purchase, it is durable and it performs well. These are the hallmarks of a freat design. Too bad one can only give five of these flaming things. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
CHILLUM
a cross-country rider
from London UK
Date Reviewed: May 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My Race Light is the love of my life. Super light and super agile, it responds well to everything I have thrown at it. Scary stories of flex and breakages have proved completely false, but then I'm pretty light myself. Its handling is more responsive than a very responsive thing, and frankly I can't fault it (oh yeah, apart from the 1 headset which could be a problem in the future. Positioning is perfect for my style- fast singletrack and hill climbs, and acceleration is particularily good. Buy one if you can- it's just a pity they went out of production last year. Beautiful welding, concept and presentation. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joe giron
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: April 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just purchased a race lite and this bike is the best bike I've ever had. I also own a M2xx S works team and the ride doesn't even compare. My Bontrager is so incredibly nimble and agile. It's a technical riders dream bike. If you ever get a chance to buy a Bontrager go for it. It's the last bike you'll ever want!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Morgan
a weekend warrior
from Houston
Date Reviewed: April 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased a 96' race lite for $995. Some guy ordered it and never picked it up, so the store discounted it. I've been riding it for 3 months and must say, I can't imagine riding any other bike. It's speed and downhill capability are unparalleled. I would just like to say, this bike rides bad ass! Oh,..If anyone knows where KB is investing his time, money and genius, please let me know
duhemp419@aol.com | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Devin
a cross-country rider
from Utah
Date Reviewed: April 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is may trail bike and it rules. The Race lite is the best hard tail that I have ever owned. By the way in my opinion Reynolds 853 is overrated. It is good stuff but not the best ride. The Race Lite is the smoothest best handling frame I have ever ridden. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nikko
a cross-country rider
from Norway
Date Reviewed: April 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the fastest quicksteered frame I've ever had. I've using it for eight months now and its getting better every day! I used to own several Cannondale hardtails (M700, F1000, F2000 and KillerV900) and I broke two and bent one ;|
now owning a SuperV3000 factory buildt for freeriding/speed wich is OK, BUT Bontrager RaceLite - RULES! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh Kravetz
a racer
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had two Bontragers. The first was a racelite. The second was a Ti lite. The racelite was great. I sold it after it was raced for two seasons. The Ti is cool. It is my soul bike. I'll keep it forever. The strange thing is that there is a big difference in geometry for the two frame materials. The Ti is considerably shorter. Both were XL's. They ride excellent in most technical singletrack, very well at slow speeds(balance sections). The Ti has more of an upright position, which uses the bar for turning-even at high speeds. Other bikes require more overall body lean. This makes the Bontrager a very quick bike. I recommend the line, esp. the Ti(it even has gussets so it's strong) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug Hamilton
a cross-country rider
from Lake Wanaka, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: March 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I managed to get my hands on a 96 Race Lite frame 3 months ago through TREK N.Z. Apart from the time it took to prep the frame for building up i.e. recutting the B.B. shell , applying the decals , etc , I have been highly impressed.
Compared to the TREK 8500 frame I just spent last 3 years
riding , the BONTY bets it hands down in every situation.
Don't be fooled by all thats new and shiny ! Tried and true technology needs no hype.Slip a pair of BOMBERS in up front and let the serious fun begin.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a cross-country rider
from Pescadero, CA
Date Reviewed: March 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I agree with Wick below. You could do a lot worse than this bike, however
you can do better as well. I always wonder how people come up with 5 star ratings on MTBR (especially when then mention a fault of the product)
Anyway, Seal up the tubes to reduce rust problems (-1 star) and
use a Reynold 853 tube set on it (-1 star) and BINGO, this bike would
be up there with the premier frames in the industry.
Nice solid ride though (1 star), good intermediate price too (1 star)
Born in the Santa Cruz Mountains (1 BIG star:)
I count 3 chilis for this nice bike | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Luis
a cross-country rider
from São Paulo, SP, Brazil
Date Reviewed: March 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bontrager in Brazil is a unknown bike, they don't even sell it here. Thus I got mine in Berkeley. This is my first Bontrager, a 97 - Privateer. After many others, Bianchi, Caloi, etc...
A really combination of lightness and resistance in this frame. It's a very stable bike. You can ride it anywhere.
I have only one definition:
IT'S A REAL BIKE.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wick
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: March 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had a Race Light for a little over three years. I find the overall ride quality is excellent. The bike is extremely quick and is a great climber. Although the bike was made in CA, this bike is at home in tight New England singletrack.I do have some issue with the overall construction of the bike. Unlike Fats and IF's the Bontrager frame is not sealed. Each tube has breather holes which prevent mosture build up when the frame is being welded. Unfortunately they allow mosture build up when the bike is actually used. Also, monostay construction makes for a bike that is stiff and unforgiving in the rear.Paint job is solid and stickers on down tube and top tube protect the paint in key abuse areas.Stand over height is excellent and overall weight is very good.You could do a lot worst then this bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fritz
a cross-country rider
from Wolfpassing, Austria, Europe
Date Reviewed: March 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I owned a ´92 Race Lite until January. It had a stiff fork and the greatest handling bike I have ever ridden and I have tried a lot of Aluminium, Titan and other miracle material bikes!Now I changed to a ´98 Race Lite with a Z2. The bike handles exactly like the one I had before!! The ´98 Race Lite is lighter than my old, the biggest frame is about 1 smaller than the old. Keith should think about this.Happy trails!
Fritz | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
G.
a cross-country rider
from Denton TX
Date Reviewed: March 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've never owned a bike that wasn't fun to ride--but I've never owned a bike that was this much fun to ride. Your eyes trace the line and the bike just follows it. IT'S LIKE RIDING A GUIDED MISSILE. Santa Cruz vs. Trek built? We can all get along. Hell I'd even buy a Cannondale if they handled like this. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
PVR
a cross-country rider
from OD ,DK
Date Reviewed: February 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
b b b b b o o o o o o n n n n n n n t t t t t t t t t t t r r r r r r r r a a a a a a a a g g g g g g g e e e e e e e e r r r r r r r r r r r r r r | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Gersib
a racer
from Lincoln, Nebraska
Date Reviewed: November 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got a new Race Lite frameset to go with the Race and Road Lite I already have. I know everyone always raves about the welds on a Fat Chance, but I'd put the welds on this Race Lite up against a Fat any day. Once I get it built up, I'll do another post comparing the 'Lite against my Race. It'll be interesting to feel the differences in ride characteristics between the two frames. I'm gonna' give this new frame 5 chilies just on its amazing craftsmanship and my experience with my other Bontrager frames. I'm sure it'll live up to them on the trail. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Palmer-Rye
a cross-country rider
from Tacoma, WA
Date Reviewed: November 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH I like it!! I bought '93 Race frame for $175(go ahead, call me a thief) early this year. Tremendous step up from my mid-level KHS. Remarkable handling. Goes like stink!! I'm 6'6 and weigh 245 and for a 4 yr. old frame to be this solid under my fat ass is killer! 6 chiles and tell Keith to re-open the Santa Cruz warehouse 'cause his hardtails are the best there is!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Palmer-Rye
a cross-country rider
from Tacoma, WA
Date Reviewed: November 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
All bow down to the God of the Hardtail...hail Keith, hail Keith!! This is the best, quickest handling, most bombproof frame I've ever ridden!! I'm 6'6 and 245 and I can vouch for that legendary Bonerager durability. I have a '93 frame that I bought used for $175(go on, call me a thief) and I don't hesitate to thrash it. Bontrager kicks ass!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Jeffries
a cross-country rider
from Britain
Date Reviewed: October 31, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the Race frame from a local shop recently . I changed from an alu frame to this , the difference is incredible . The overall finish of the frame is superb , the welds and paint finish are of the highest quality . A friend owns a hand made Fuquay (top British frame builder) and it is easily as good as his in every respect . Look at all the other reviews to see what I am talking about (only one person gave it lower than 5/5) . That sais it all !!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JD
a cross-country rider
from Sunnyvale, CA
Date Reviewed: October 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride a medium Bontrager Race frame. Most of the components are LX/XT. This frame is a beauty. Its welds are smooth, the paint is good, and the gussets are functional. Construction is top-notch. Since I got a Race instead of the Race Lite, mine was still made in Santa Cruz. This frame is a bit heavier than the RL, but what you get is increased durability.
When I first rode this frame, I immediately noticed the way it positioned its rider. It is quite upright. What this means is that the rider would feel comfortable during climbs. Another fact that I noticed was that the front wheel tracks real well during climbs, especially if your fork has the Bontrager crown (they're the black ones). All in all, this frame made me clean a steep section without stopping. During the downhills, the handling was confidence-inspiring. Another plus for this frame is that it is very easy to jump, if you like getting air. This frame tracks well, is very nimble, and carves corners well.
I can sum the frame's performance in a sentence. It is going to wait for you, as you improve in all aspects of riding. The only thing needed is for you to improve your skills. A downside for this is, you can't blame the bike anymore if you mess up on something. But, I don't mind that.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Saldivar
a cross-country rider
from Mountain View, CA
Date Reviewed: October 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have to start out by saying that I'm very dissappointed in Keith for selling out to Trek, what a sellout! There, I said it. With that out of the way, I will continue on with my review. I own a 1992 Racelite that I've been riding for the last 5 years. This bike simply RULES! It handles like a German sports car in the singletrack, very fast and responsive. It feels equally as comforting in the air. As for climbs, it's shorter chainstays put the rear wheel under my body weight, giving me excellent traction in the steep stuff. My large Racelite has a 23 top tube, which is a tad bit too small for my long torso. I compensate that with a longer stem, with a 10 degree rise. Another unique thing about the Bontrager, is it's 74 degree seat tube angle. This, along with the sloping top tube makes it handle incredibly well in tight singletrack, but a bit sketchy on open (45+ mph) fire roads.I have put over 5000 miles on this bike, and plan to keep it until I can no longer ride....BONTRAGERS RULE!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Manry
a cross-country rider
from Monte Sereno, CA
Date Reviewed: October 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I was going to wait until I had an even thousand miles on my RaceLite before posting a review but I'm nearing 900 so what the heck. I'm not that experienced a rider in terms of the number of different bikes ridden--I spent 3 years on a Bridgestone MB-2 (rigid) and have borrowed/rented a few others--but still I can appreciate the design and construction of this steel pony. I love my old MB-2, but the Bontrager is a religious experience in the handling department. It's a superb climber and is agile on the downhill. Did my own build which I won't describe in detail but the basics are a medium frame with Judy SL, 177.5mm Boone cranks, and low standard-size gearing (24t small ring X 32t large cog). Thats a lot of leverage for some of the local gut-buster climbs. What goes up must come down, and the Bontrager handles very predictably on both fire road and single track. It's a shame to see the market's fascination with full suspension drive Bontrager out of the frame-building biz. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Gersib
a racer
from Lincoln, Nebraska
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a '96 Bontrager race, a '97 Road Lite and am about to get a '97 Race Lite. In the past year, I've gone from owning no steel frames (but having 5 bikes of other materials) to owning nothing but steel Bontragers. It all comes back to one thing. Handling. I've never ridden a bike that posesses such surgical precision in the riding conditions we have in the Midwest (Fast, wooded singletrack). Interestingly enough, in the past, my bikes that worked well in Midwestern riding didn't work that well in alpine riding (Colorado). My Bontrager seems to excel in this enviroment as well. These frames will make you a better bike handler, especially if you're good already. If you like to go fast in singletrack, you owe it to yourself to check out a Bontrager. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Harvey
a cross-country rider
from Atlanta
Date Reviewed: October 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
RACE FrameAfter almost 2 years I have no complaints. I love this bike. One of the
many great features on this bike are the stickers on the top and down
tubes. They protect the frame and are easily replaceable, and come in all
colors so you can mix and match with your forks. Top tube mounted cables
help keep grit and water out. Has a very cool anti-suck deflector plate.
This frame is best in singletrack/technical. The rear end tends to get real squirrelly at high speed on downhills.I have never owned a frame other than steel so I can't comment on how they
compare. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Morris
a cross-country rider
from Columbia Md
Date Reviewed: September 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Race Lite is very lively bike. My XT/Judy equipped bike has a very nice ride to it. At times I check the back tire because I think it went flat! However, this is the compliant ride a well made steel bike treats it's rider to; And, since my last bike was an M2, this compliant feel is very noticeable. Other pluses include sharp handling even though the Judy fork, while having great travel, is as torsionally stiff as a wet noodle. I'd consider getting a Manitou but I've had that too and while they are stiffer they don't tolerate wet conditions very well. My only real concern with the Race Lite frame is it's durability. While I've heard all about the Bontrager legacy with steel, the pronounced flexiness in the frame does cause me to wonder what the actual lifespan of the bike will be. But I have to say overall, I have yet to ride something as impressive and refined as the Race Lite. The lively feel and flexiness certainly enhances the ride quality and as I've heard before and must repeat - this bike disappears under it's rider. Check one out ! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Provo Ut.
Date Reviewed: September 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Model: Race
Color: Orange
I've been looking for a new hardtail for way too long and finally got a deal on a virtually brand new race from a guy who had never really ridden it. Once I got the brakes adjusted properly for my limited reach the bike's qualities really showed through. My old bike was a slow steerer; you basically had to make the turn before you got there. This bike feels best when the turns are as tight and as fast as can be. Mine is Full XT and a bit on the heavy side (~26 lbs) which is a bit of a drag but it doesn't seem to affect the performance. My old Araya 400Pro rims had never even thought about going out of true but these Weinmann blues bent after one rough ride. It may be a function of who built them I suppose. Overall I'm stoked on the bike and enjoy it more each time I ride it. I probably would have liked a Race Lite but for the price I won't sweat the 1/2 pound. Build quality is beautiful, it seems like the paint alone could hold the frame together sans welding. I'll give it a five even thoughI wish it was lighter (while maintaining stiffness :) I'm not quite sure why he uses regular True Temper for the Race instead of something like Prestige, I'm sure he has his reasons. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Daily
a cross-country rider
from Palo Alto, Ca
Date Reviewed: September 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I can't fathom a ride package so well thought out and trail-proven as the Race Lite. Just bought one recently and I must say that I'm proud to be amongst such an enthusiastic group of owners. The quiet hollow whooooshing sound this thing makes on the 12 dirt carpet through the woods is sheer ecstasy. . .six peppers--caliente! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob Hartsock
a racer
from Anchorage, AK
Date Reviewed: August 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the first bike I ever bought for off-road. I spent a lot of time racing road bikes, both in the US and Europe. Decided this year to take to the trails after moving to Alaska. I test rode one bike, and I bought it. Bontrager is with out a doubt the best deal in all of bicycling, and it is too bad that no one knows this. My bike is flawless in corners, responsive on climbs and tough as nails. I need to say that it is NOT flashy, it is NOT trendy, it is NOT expensive. Let the tech-weenies and wankers worry about wether thier stuff is chic, real riders know a real ride, and Bontrager is a racer's bike. If you put your time in on trail and mud and dirt and you slam rocks, get this. If you ride the path on a sunny day if it is not raining and you have time before Baywatch come on, then stick to that clean and cute bike you use to dazzle your fellow out of shape wanna be riders. We will ride Bontrager and kick.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lane De Bardeleben
a racer
from Baton Rouge,La.
Date Reviewed: August 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my race-lite for five years now (one of the originals pre Trek
W/ no serial #'s.) I've been racing on it for four and have nothing bad
to say about this frame. I've had both a Mag 21 RS, and a Judy SL both
with the Kieth Bontrager designed crowns, and I have not road a quicker
stearing bike than this one. In my opinion this is the best CC hard
tale that you can buy! For those gram-crackers, my med. race-lite
weights 23lbs. 2oz.------not bad for a steal bike. ride on, later.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryan
a
from Houston
Date Reviewed: July 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Don't ride the bontrager unless you are sure you want to buy it. I've ridden my race frame hard for over a year and it's just as good as it was out of the box. The steering is ultra precise, especially if you pick up the special low rake crown desinged by KB himself. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike T.
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
When I posted below I hadn't ridden my new frame yet.
My old frame was a rigid fork model from five years ago that was retro-fitted with a suspension fork. This had the effect of slowing the steering down some - head wag on slow hills and tight single track.
But the new Bonty is obviously a suspension geometry model and the difference is like night and day. This thing is like a rocket !! It just wails down the single track. Talk about precise steering?
I can ride no-hands down track 12 wide between the weeds.
Get one quick - you won't be sorry. Eight red-hot chillis. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike T.
a cross-country rider
from Ont. Canada.
Date Reviewed: July 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had a Race Lite for five years now and it just cracked at the seat tube/top tube junction. I never abused it but I probably was a bit too heavy for the Lite version (185lbs.).
I called Santa Cruz and was told to return it to my dealer who would return it to Bonty for inspection.
My brand new frame arrived today and she's a beauty. Thanks Bontrager. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brook
a cross-country rider
from santa cruz, ca
Date Reviewed: July 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
picked up one of the last race lites made in santa cruz- a well designed machine, handles flawlessy, telepahthic, light, smooth and best of all the magic carpet ride of steel. looked at klein adroit- i could feel everything- overkill. gotta a great deal too because trek is blowing out all the high end stuff out. but like i said mine was built in his shop!!! 5 smooth and fast chillis' | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay Romero
a weekend warrior
from Milpitas, CA
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Race-Lite last month and I LOVE THIS BIKE! Very responsive especially
on descents. It seems to have more control than my other aluminum bike. This bike
is a true single-track handler, a perfect cross-country machine. This bike just
kicks ass. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ola Helenius
a cross-country rider
from Sweden
Date Reviewed: April 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Model: Bontrager Race Lite.
This a probably about as good as a hardtail gets. The Bontrager is reasonably light, has really nice handling characteristics and is not to expensive. Like all my friends that have tried the bike, I think that it is especially good in tight singletrack. Since the geometry is pretty steep, it tends to get a bit sketchy at high speeds. Although a prefer full suspension, I think this is the best hardtail I tried. 5 chilis as a hardtail. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Johnson
a cross-country rider
from Mill Valley, CA
Date Reviewed: April 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My Privateer was probably among the firts results of the Trek buyout. As much as I would have loved a S.C. origional, I can't say enough good things about my Bontrager, epecially the fact that I can afford one. Sweet handling on the up and downhill and it was a truly dependable rig for the collegiate race season. A new lighterwheelset brought it down to 24lbs. Plus they respond to E-mails instantly.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Ignacio
a weekend warrior
from Sta. Clara CA
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I think I have pushed this bike to its limits. It broke at the chainstay/BB junction. I weigh ~280 lbs and I don't think that the frame could handle all the stresses on it. My first review was written after owning it for a week. I guess I just gotta stop drinking so much beer and spicy chicharone in front of the tube. Well, at least now I can leave it on my roof rack and impress people whenever cruising around downtown. Later, from the Bakla Hindot.(Big Rider) | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Ignacio
a weekend warrior
from Sta. Clara CA
Date Reviewed: March 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Model: RACE LITE
One word to describe this bike,AWESOME!!!! Best bike I've
ever owned and ridden. With the combination of XTR components
and JUDY SL fork, it only weighs about 22lbs.(pretty light for
a steel frame). Built for Singletracks,Downhill & X-Country.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nosamk
a cross-country rider
from North Carolina
Date Reviewed: March 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
MoDel : RaCeI began looking for an upgrade xc bike in dec '96. rode almost every aluminmu
bike out there. Had narrowed it down to either a '96 Klein Adroit or a '97 Gary
Fisher Supercaliber---then the guys at my LBS suggested i try a bontrager. STEEL??? i said--i gotta steel bike now... The rest is history---STEEL is the way to go for a XC hardtail---forget aluminum and all that other new crap out there. Get a bontie [course now that they halted production at santa cruz--i dont know what's gonna happen].
This bike is awesome
mine is 23.5 pounds, much more comfortable than aluminum
rides like its on rails. Just point it and gothis bike is unbeatable...... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Captain K
a racer
from Atlanta
Date Reviewed: February 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the Ti-lite which is very similar to the race light (except for the material of course) and a friend rides the Race-light. We both love the bikes and can't believe how secure and stable they are. We ride a lot of tight east coast singletrack and they go where you point them. The only negative I have found about the geometry is that the front end wants to tuck under at slow speeds on tight turns, but this is the trade off for the high speed stability and I'll take this trade off any day of the week. I've had C-dale F-1000 and I also currently have a Super V Active 2000. The SVA is fun, but I always pull out the Bontrager first. It will be my race bike this season and I can't wait! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jethro
a racer
from Iowa City, Iowa
Date Reviewed: December 26, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have nothing but good things to say about my Race Lite. I've been hammering on it for just over a year now and am looking forward to many more. Every detail on this frame has been well thought out and would be difficult to improve on. A friend of mine summed it up when he rode it and said, It seems to know where I want to go before I do.I have spent considerable time on both the pre-Trek version and the post-Trek version and the post-Trek version is probably better. Trek's buying power allows Keith to use custom-drawn seat stays instead of using his old method of sliding one tube inside another. The only other difference (that I noticed) is a more friendly front derailleur arrangement. (They got rid of that pulley.)Buy this bike. You can't go wrong. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a cross-country rider
from Springfield MO
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
My Racelite is AMAZING. Combined with the Bontrager Judy fork crown - it is the best singletrack/all around bike I've owned or ridden. Excellent Customer service.Overall rating is about 58 stars | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dean
a cross-country rider
from Belleville, Illinois
Date Reviewed: December 21, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
After riding aluminum (Cannondale and Gary Fisher) for 4 years decided to go with steel. There is a computer program called Point & Shoot and that describes this bike. There is a certain downhill on my favorite trail that always scares me a little. The first time on this bike it just seemed to know where to go. I guess it's that Keith Bontrager carma.
I just bought the frame alone and put all the components from my old bike on it
so it was easy to make a direct comparision. There was none. The guys at the shop where I bought the bike say this is the only bike they sell that everyone in the shop agrees on. I can See why. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Huw Williams
a downhiller
from London UK
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
model:race
This baby rides like it's on rails. A single track supremo that handles like it's an extension of your central nervous system. I LIKE. I'm talking about the pre Trek version - not sure what the build quality is like post-take over but when Kieth was doing the welding the results were bomb proof. I ride with an assortment of guys with VERY expensive steeds and yet they all want to hev a go on my Bontie. I'm usually happy to oblige but some times I have to pull them out of the saddle when I want my baby back. BUY ONE. And no I'm not on commission.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Mitchell
a cross-country rider
from Palo Alto, CA
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
model:race
I spent a whole lot of time test riding frames when I was buying my bike and
the Bontrager Race was the winner, hands down, no question. It's unbelievably
stable, tracks true through the roughest terrain, and is constructed with
impeccable quality standards. I bought mine a month or so after the Trek buyout -
no noticable differences from the ones I tested which were pre-buyout models.
An added bonus is that compared to some other top frames, the Bontrager is less
expensive. I'd imagine that this is due to the fact that it's a steel frame, so
instead of paying through the nose for exotic materials and welding equipment,
more of your money goes toward quality designs and skilled welders. At any rate,
I felt it was a good deal...
I've also got only good things to say about the customer service. I had some
complications getting the Magura quick release to mount on the rear, and Keith
himself gave me the solution.*
For a solid, well engineered, sweet ride, that performs exactly how you want it
to every single time, Bontrager's tops...
* If you happen to be having this problem yourself, the solution is to get a
screw in brake stud such as the ones used on rock shox. Screw this into the boss
on the frame, screw the hourglass shaped bolt into that, and off you go...
| | Overall Rating: |
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