Submitted by
Jon Andrews
a Cross Country Rider
from Crested Butte, Co, USA Date Reviewed: September 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Kona Hona
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Wheels.com
Strengths:
Fast on rocky terrain, easy to control in adverse conditions.
Weaknesses:
Creaky.
Similar Products Used:
Ellesworth
Bike Setup:
All XTR comp./Mavic frames/ Continental tires/ Fox RLC float on front/ Hayes Disk Brakes.
Bottom Line:
I have been working with support at Maverick. They need to step up when a person has an issue. For me it's this damn creak. Not the bottom bracket, its something with the Monolink.
If it were not for the creak, this bike is a ton o' fun. I like my machines to run like silk, thus the XTR components. The fun goes way down when there is contant noise from the bikes crotch.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Masson
a Cross Country Rider
from Aviemore Scotland Date Reviewed: June 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Locals secret.
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Fat Tread Bikes
Strengths:
Awesome climber especially on techy sections. Lightweight. Cornering speed. Ability to cruise through boulder fields. Very agile for 6" travel full sus'.
Weaknesses:
Ugly - looks like a Specialised. Integral headset. Too new to know of any long term problems. Price.
Last night had the most amazing 3hr demo ride on Maverick ML8. Have always ridden race orientated bikes - Kona Kula; Santa Cruz Superlight; Ellsworth Truth and have never felt the need for a big squishy bike to get me down a trail with a grin on my face. In fact have never even considered lowering my saddle. This has now all changed after looning around like an idiot on the Maverick. Grabbed the bike from Fat Tread Bikes at 5.30 and headed for the woodsy singletrack. First surprise, cleaned a previously unclimbable climb - nearly didn't manage simply because I started giggling when I realised that I was going to do it. Next the tight woodsy singletrack was dispatched so quickly that I had to go back up again and again (x3). OK, too easy so off to another testpiece. Badaguish race course is known for its tight, rooty, rocky singletrack all either going up or down very steeply. This I thought would be the downfall of a bike I had percieved as being too big (too much travel, bulk, wheelbase, etc) for such a tight trail. How wrong. It climbed all the old favourites better than my sub 25lb Truth! It hurts to say that by the way. Descending off camber roots ha! my new favourite hobby. Rock gardens, ha more like pebble gardens. By now I am experiencing the buzz of a decade ago when I first rode a mountainbike. I can't go home yet, so off up to Cairngorm to crank the volume up louder. Now I'm not describing the next bit - cos it's naughty, but lets just say that big fast rock strewn mountainsides are effortless both up and down. Get back to van dazed by whole experience and realised I haven't drank or eaten for last 3hrs. It's that good.Ugly though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Briarcliff,NY Date Reviewed: December 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Race Loop @ Blue Mtn. w/plenty of extra thrown in!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Briarcliff Bike Works 914-941-4706
Strengths:
Takes me along for the ride!
Weaknesses:
Hates to be put in the garage.
Similar Products Used:
I own a Truth, but it's the Maverick that has set me free!
Bike Setup:
ML7, Maverick Fork, Chris King, Stans Rims, Avid juicy,03'XTR crank, Dura-Ace/XTR d's, and the best of the rest. 24.5 lbs. Can you say stupid light?!!!!!!
Bottom Line:
Killer trail bike. It's an absolute pleasure to ride "Wink". Not only can it dance, it loves to flip, flop, and fly. Truely inspiring! Rides like a plush hardtail...what a concept. This rig should cost more, and it does if you purchase a Seven Duo. If you can live without titanium, this is nirvana! If you have read this far it's obvious you have a hankering for one as well. Make the call, you will love yourself for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kamran Scopp
a Cross Country Rider
from California Date Reviewed: November 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Boggs MT. the whole thing
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Private Party
Strengths:
Awesome welds Very strong looking. I'll ride tomorrow for the first time and post a real review in a few months
Weaknesses:
None that I'm aware of. Perhaps the integrated headset. And funky front derailleur setup.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
CKiso wheelset W/ dtswiss rims, Thomson stem, seatpost,Sram XO,avid mechs,Black Elite100-120(until I can afford Maverick) MonkeyliteXC,RacefaceLP,IRC serac tires.
Bottom Line:
I'm very excited about this bike By tomorrow I'll be riding it(Assuming everything fits together ok) I'll post a real review in a few months So far everything about this bike seems amazing. It's a work of art to look at by tomorrow I'll be ripping it up on my first full suspension experience. If I have half as good of an experience as the reviewers before me I'll be in heaven.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc B
a Cross Country Rider
from Somerville, MA Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
ATA Cycle, Cambridge
Strengths:
Pedaling & handling. This bike is noticibly more efficient than my SPV-equipped Giant VT1 (partially because it has 1.7in less travel). Beyond that, though, it is the best handling bike I've spent any time with since selling my fantastic VooDoo Bokor hardtail in 2000... It is fine just noodling along, and loves technical east-coast climbing, but if you start push it, the bike seems to look up, grin, and say 'bring it on.' Weird, but I like it. Plus, is a very nice looker, especially in the orange-y 'crimson' paint job. The named head tube badge ('Tyke'), DOB, and lovely seatpost clamp are pretty cool, too.
Weaknesses:
Suspension action is noticibly different when standing, which makes drops (standing, of course) less pleasant. Acceptible, though, given the handling and efficiency. Spendy, too, but not given the attention to detail, especially now that the price has dropped by $700.
Similar Products Used:
Owned: Giant VT1, Specialized Enduro Expert. Ridden: FSRs, Orange SUB-5s, loads of hardtails, Specialized Brain (good lord- how did they mess that up?)
Bike Setup:
XT, including discs & cranks, Psylo Race fork (would pick air fork, though), Eggbeater pedals (sweet), Titec/Easton finishing kit, Hope Hubs with X3.1 tubeless rims and Conti Vertical 2.3s or Kenda 1.9 USTs (depending on ride).
Bottom Line:
Here's the deal: If I were still living in the French Alps, doing miles and miles of technical descending, this probably wouldn't be my pick (see: VT1).
BUT: for a super-versatile bike that loves long rides (like last week's 50-mile epic), tight singletrack, maybe the odd bit of 24-hour racing (Sleepless in the Saddle, etc) or east coast racing (VT 50-miler, 2nd Start Enduro, etc.), I can't think of anything else I'd pick. There we have it. Anyone want to buy a VT1?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ros Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA USA Date Reviewed: August 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Bull Dog Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
WrenchScience
Strengths:
Fantastic fit and finish, superb design, and incredible peddling efficiency.
Weaknesses:
The bike is relatively complex, possibly requiring mechanical skills. I ride hard, and tend to throw my bike around. Irresponsible? Definitely. My local bike shop arrogantly attempted to tune my bicycle. No can do. Does this mean I have to fix my own bicycle.
Similar Products Used:
Replaced a lightspeed Unicoi, full XTR etc.
Bike Setup:
Full XTR with 180 mm cranks. Fox talus RLC, Mavic wheels and hubs, i.e. The full-court press
Bottom Line:
This is my first full suspension bicycle. I resisted suspension bicycles and their inherent weaknesses. I have always been a strong climber, and valued my ability to pass my "suspension challenged" friends. I trailed tested a maverick and was blown away. This led to my purchase, and I couldn't be happier so far. The bike came to me set up beautifully, and while it's expensive, it is not that much more than other designs. The bike weighs 25 lbs., and climbs like a mountain goat. I think that the maverick Mavericks are headed in a remarkable direction. I am blown away
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bret Moss
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, ID, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: April 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Up Bob's Down Hulls
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4400.00
Purchased At:
Wrench Science
Strengths:
Head Tube Angle 70.5, Short top tube (XL 24.75), Cable routing (under top tube), Reasonably light, Wheelbase (44.25), BB height (12.5), Surface area of pivot bearings (large), Integrated Headset (light, simple), plenty of room for a 2.3 tire,
Weaknesses:
BB height for rock/tree crossings, Integrated Headset exposed to elements, Short top tube not for aero xc riding, 3/4 Rear Shock Sag,
Similar Products Used:
Mac Strut, Y & Sweet Spot URT's, four bar, faux bar (swing link), sigle pivot hi/low, floating drive train (I-Drive)
Bike Setup:
Frame Size XL, Weighs 28 lbs, Rear shock Heavy Spring,Rear shock sag set-up 15-17mm w/20 psi, Front Suspension Psylo Race (100mm), Kit XT (hydraulic), wheels Mavic 317 disc, tires Conti Survival Pro 2.3, Thompson Elite Post, Selle Italia ProLink Gel Flow saddle, Easton Riser Bar (Monkey Lite), ODI Lock-On w/ Bontrager Ergo grips
Bottom Line:
I weigh 190 lbs and I'am 6' 1" in height, I would describe my riding style as "In search of epics", I don't mind hike a biking, living in Idaho there are 5 mile 4000 vertical climbs, this bike works for me! It manuals (wheelies) very well for wheelie drops. I've got the cockpit set up with seat height and grip height the same (neutral). The mono-link works it's magic. The rear shock sag YOU chose has a big impact on perception of how the rear is working. You can choose a soft or firm set-up of rear shock. When the rear shock extends (rebounds), it feels like it driving you forward. This bike is not for everybody, I've been riding 3 days a week 12 months of the year for the last 10 years. My last bike frame I owned for 7 years. If I ride this bike for 7 years I will consider it the best $4,400.00 dollars I've ever spent, only time will tell.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR. USA Date Reviewed: February 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
South St. Vrain
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Maverick American
Strengths:
Climbing in and out of the saddle, responsive handling, and easy set-up for air pressure.
Weaknesses:
Having to let all of my friend's spend some time on my bike when we're on the trail. Also, knowing that whoever is on the ride without a Maverick is not having as much fun as me.
Similar Products Used:
Prototype ML6, Santcruz Superlight, Sugar 1, ML7
Bike Setup:
Fox float RL, Hayes, XTR, Easton, Hutchenson, Hugi, Time, Sram.
Bottom Line:
The bike is masterpiece. If you're an XC rider who wants a bike that is super light and handles well, this is it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Allen
a Weekend Warrior
from Cody, WY Date Reviewed: December 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any and all
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$5500.00
Purchased At:
Maverick American
Strengths:
Unsurpassed climbing; balls-out descending; low maintenance; full moto with style. In addition, PT designed it, FV machined the protos; FS looked at it; and I built and named it (yours too if its dated from 4/01 to 8/02).
Weaknesses:
None - But I may be baised 'cause I worked with and have known the boyz for a while.
Similar Products Used:
ML5.1; ML5.2; ML6.0; and the "One-ee" a combo ML6/ML7 single speed I builtup for grins.
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla RLC; Sram XO shifters and rear der.; Race Face Next Cranks and BB; Hugi 240's with Mavic D521's; DT spokes; Avid discs and levers; Thomson post; Easton stem and bars; WTB saddle and tires; XT front der.; DX pedals; the "crapflap" - a little fender I made up to protect the main seal; and a few inhouse modifications I made to the damper.
Bottom Line:
Get one now - It's not a huck-a-monkey bike or a racey- race bike, but it is the best adventure and epic ride bike out there. Plus, the frame is a frigg'in work of art. Dig this, we had 13 of these out there for a 5 day-120 mile trail ride in Idaho and there was not one problem (check Maverick's website). Props to Maverick for the experience and to Fox, Race Face, Sram, Avid, DT/Swiss, Mavic, Thomson, Easton, and WTB for the products - thanks guys
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
d pike
a Weekend Warrior
from emerald city, CO Date Reviewed: November 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the velvet glove
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$6000.00
Purchased At:
mavericks r us
Strengths:
no squeaks, creaks, or bs leaks...like a nice long board, the faster you go,the more this frame rewards with stability and confidence...absolutely hooks up on the climbs, even at the lowest speeds. the momentum gods favor this design; THE best design for getting from mountain point a, to mountain point b in a timely fashion, both up and down. race it up, race it down...freakin' race it all over town!
Weaknesses:
umm...errr...I had to purchase a better lock?...I swear the malleable der hanger made my rear der last longer!
Similar Products Used:
porsche 993 c4s, yamaha r1
Bike Setup:
fox vanilla rlc, xtr, reg whls w/519 rims, fat tires, hayes, oury grips, and wtb saddles
Bottom Line:
So what if it costs a bit more? Now all I have to spend money on are chains, tires, and beer...get one now before you screw up and have to give all your money to your future ex.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pale Rider
a Cross Country Rider
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: November 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2695.00
Purchased At:
Maverick Direct
Strengths:
The Feraari of mountain bikes...expensive as hell, but worth it in every way for handling and performance. The most BAD A$$ bike I've EVER seen or had the PRIVELAGE to ride! Very light at 5.2 lbs. with the newer Magnesium bodied rear shock, SEXY looks, stout (and not too beer canny thin) tubing---outstanding fit and finish on the welds, powdercoating,machine work, and all else....
The way the disc-brake cable routers work is really cool! The quick-release seat clamp mechanism is well made and works! Rear suspension design is very innovative, and soaks up the bumps better than anything I've EVER ridden! You don't feel the rear of the bike moving over the bumps, but it works! And the rear suspension ABSOLUTELY DOES NOT bob while pedaling and climbing. Cool headtube badge. And the bike doesn't have a serial #, it has an eccentric name! Great support and customer service from Maverick. Comes with an extra r. der. hanger, candy, extra frame decals, and a cool owners manual signed by Paul Turner!
Weaknesses:
Limited headset choices, I have (minor) chainline and shifting problems due to having to use the DH cup on the drive side for my Race face B/B, with that E-Type front derailleur. It spaced the cranks out just a few milimeters too far.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Rocket 88, Cannondale Jekyll. And none of them were "SIMILAR" to the Mav in any way!
Bike Setup:
All XTR (2002)--RF next lp cranks and B/B, Psylo SL, Hayes discs, Hugi 240 / Mavic X-317 wheelset, Thomson post, easton Monkey Lite bar and EA-70 stem, IRC Serac XC tires, Time ATAC Titan pedals, WTB Rocket V Laser saddle, Salsa grips and skewers, all srp Ti bolts, carmicheal derailleur pulleys...JEEZ, THE LIST GOES ON AND ON.........
Bottom Line:
This bike is the SHIZ-NITTY focking NIT! My absolute dream ride. And I had never ridden one before I got it! If you can afford it, get one---it does not dissapoint. Plan on spending a lot of time talking about it on the trail, though....
Maverick----you guys ROCK!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Boyd Piebenga
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: September 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Crawfish
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Maverick
Strengths:
A great bike, end of story. Rides like a dream, looks beautiful, and backed up by the best Customer Service I have ever experienced
Weaknesses:
Derailleur Hanger. I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who's had problems with this. I'm on my fifth hanger now, having never bent one before this bike. I ended up buying a Park Tool to straighten them, as it was costing me a fortune!
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC Air lite, SC Superlight, Jeckyl. Specialized Enduro, Trek Fuel. Titus Switchblade
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, Fox Vanilla 125 RLC fork. Magura Louise FR brakes, Thomson, Monkeylites, Hugi 240's, RF Cranks
Bottom Line:
It's everything I could hope for. Pretty light, and sweet handling. I can keep up with the Hardtails on the way up, and with the Freeride bikes on the way down. Sure it's a lot of money but I've long since forgotten about that, and am loving every minute on the bike. Customer Service from Maverick, Fox and Magura, has been unbelievable, given a choice the only thing I'd do different is go with XTR Cranks, which Frank at Maverick advised me to do. He was right, but I was stubborn!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Wash. Co., UT, USA Date Reviewed: July 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
TNTC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Not at liberty to say.
Strengths:
Does what people say. No bob when pedaling either seated or standing. Light frame for 4 inches of rear travel. I got 5.9 pounds for the extra large size. Helpful, detailed setup information comes with the bike. Beautiful craftsmanship - looks particularly good with a white Marzocchi Marathon fork. Great overall trailbike or epic ride bike.
Weaknesses:
Expensive. Less supple than a 4 bar design with Horst Link. Very slack angles. Only a few seatposts will work (get a Thompson with the 12 degree clamp). Limited production shock may become difficult to replace, though with all the positive reviews and other manufacturers licensing the design, this may not be an issue. I still don't like integrated headsets. The one on my bike was fairly exposed to the elements compared to the Chris King gold standard. Front derailleur limited to E plate designs.
All good stuff: Marathon, Hope Mini's, Thompson post and stem, WTB SST 98 Ti saddle, Monkey Lite SL carbon riser bar. I found I had to set my saddle a little higher than usual to account for the bottom bracket moving as the suspension sags.
Bottom Line:
My friend had surgery and couldn't ride his new bike. He let me assemble it and test it for a couple of months. What a bud! It is certainly one of the best bikes I've ever ridden. Personally though, I prefer my Turners.
Although the design doesn't bob, I decided that bobbing isn't as critical as I thought it would be. I found riding back to back with my Turner O2 that my perceived effort, climbing times and heart rate weren't any different over the same quite technical course despite the visible bobbing I see with the O2. Now, with my old Cannondale Super-V, I could feel the bobbing sapping my power. A properly set up 4 bar (it's gotta have the Horst Link) doesn't give me the "we're losing power, Captain" kind of feeling despite the visible movement. The deciding factor for me, however, was the bottom section of my test course where there is a quarter mile section of very sharp edged slickrock edges on a slight downhill: I was feeling every OOF! with a definite whole body impact on the Maverick versus the controlled thumps I could pedal through with my Turner. The 4 inches of travel on the Maverick feels like less than the 3 inches on the O2. There is no comparison to the 5 inches on my Turner RFX. I race the O2 except I use my RFX at the 24 hours of Moab, but if I had to choose a bike for a shorter (< 20 mile) race I'd pick the O2, the Maverick, then the RFX. I think the Maverick would be easier to get used to switching from a hardtail, but that isn't necessarily a positive thing.
I took the bike to the Fruita festival and got lots of approving looks and comments. This bike gets noticed by the biking elite if that's important to you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan
a Cross Country Rider
from Berkeley, CA Date Reviewed: June 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Roots in Fernie and Plascenta Descenta in Nelson, BC
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$5950.00
Purchased At:
Medina Cycleworks / wrenchscience
Strengths:
-Great design built around integrating the rear shock as a structural element in the frame. No chain growth with shock actuation and no noticeable bobbing. -A bike built, and company staffed, by riders. You get a great owners manual with maintenance tips and tracking sheets. Obvious attention to detail with CNC machined frames. Any issues are quickly resolved by Maverick. I had a problem with my seatpost slipping--one e-mail to Frank was all it took; he had a new seat clamp UPS'ed to me in a day. The new clamp eliminated the slipping problem. -Rides like a dream. It took me a few rides to get used to the slacker angles and the longer wheelbase, but the bike delivers on its promise. The bike handles superbly and feels very solid. This was definitely outside my original budget, but I have not had any regrets and only lots of fun in the 6 months that I've had the ML7. -Dealer support. Tim, Rich, and Zach have been great at Medina Cycleworks (aka wrenchscience on the web). They helped me get complementary components and then assembled the bike and get everything dialed.
Weaknesses:
rear derailleur hanger--I bent two right off the bat; one lying the bike on the hanger and one in a crash. Now knowing how easy it is, I carry a spare. However, I'm also much more conscientious and don't lay the bike on the derailleur side (obvious, I know, but was never a problem on my OCLV w/ a permanent hanger). Since bending the first two, I haven't had any issues. This is not a fault of the bike design and is more my learning curve.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 9900 OCLV hardtail
Bike Setup:
Marathon S fork; Magura Marta disc brakes; UST CrossMax Disc wheels; SRAM 9.0SL rear derailleur&shifters;XTR cranks,BB, front derailleur; Shimano M959 pedals; Easton Monkeylite bars; Thomson Elite seatpost; Selle Italia Ti-Flight gel
Bottom Line:
You will not be disappointed. If you get an opportunity, treat yourself to a ride. I made the leap of faith w/o a test ride and haven't looked back. I was looking for a XC-FS ride that would be efficient and could handle technical climbs while giving more control on the descents. The Maverick ML7 filled the bill beautifully and has belatedly added me to the legions of hardtail converts. If you are looking for a no-holds barred FS-XC, look no further. This bike will not hold you back. 4 Chilis for value--this isn't a bargain bike, but the quality shines through and that has its price. 5 chilis overall
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew
a Cross Country Rider
from Fairfield, CT USA Date Reviewed: May 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any in Trout Brook Valley
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Don's Cycle Shop
Strengths:
The complete suspension package and adjustability of the RockShox Pyslo w/ M Bits and Fox Rear Shock Damper mated to an incredible stiff,durable and good looking frame make this one sweet riding and well balanced bike!
Weaknesses:
The Dealer needs to be informed at the time of purchase as to the components needed to build up the frame such as XTR Bottom Bracket, and 12 degree clamp for the Thompson Seatpost to complete the package.Clean and relube the integrated headset often. Check and tighten pivot bolts.
Similar Products Used:
Last bike owned was a Rocky Mt. Element T.O.
Bike Setup:
XTR Crank, Bottom Bracket and Front Derailuer,XT Cassette 12-34,Sram 9.0SL Rear Derailuer and Shifters,Hayes Disc Brakes,Race Face Stem, Easton Monkey Lite Riser Bar,Thompson Seatpost,Selle Flite Saddle, Time ATAC Pedals,Hugi 240 Hubs W/ WTB Laser Disc Rims,and Conti Explorer Pro front and Escape rear Tires.
Bottom Line:
The Maverick ML7 rides and handles like a dream.The suspension is well balanced and can handle any "East Coast" cross country riding situation you can throw at it.When you buy a Maverick you are born into a family. Just get out and ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Luzerne, Pa. Date Reviewed: May 18, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
The International Bicycle Center (Boston)
Strengths:
-- Geometry: the bike is designed exactly for what it is intended to be used for...long, long, rides
-- Lateral Stiffness: one of my biggest fears was that the rear end of the bike would have tracking issues. Forget that!! The rear shock and "triangle" are stiffer than you could ever imagine. Rest assured, no slop here.
-- Value: yeah, the bike does cost a mint, but what do you expect, a Ferrari for the price of a Camaro. This bike is worth every penny of what you spend. The tubeset is amazing, the construction is flawless, and the design is impeccable. If I had to make the choice to drop almost 5 big ones again, there is no doubt it would be on a Maverick.
-- Customer Support: notice I said "support", not "service". The guys at Maverick live, eat, and breathe bikes and they love helping owners of their great products. I have had several questions for these guys, and they are always right on the money with quick responses. Special kudos to Frank Scurlock who made my purchase easier than I ever imagined.
Weaknesses:
-- Parts Availability: hey, with a two year parts guarantee on the frame and shock, I'm not too worried about this. Even after 24 months, I know that the Mav guys will still be there to help me out.
-- Integrated Headset: this is clearly speculative at this time, but I can see the Cane Creek IS headset needing constant attention. Nothing that a little maintenance and service won't counteract though.
Similar Products Used:
I've ridden nothing close to the Maverick. This bike is in a class of its own.
Bike Setup:
Full XTR package RockShok Psylo SL (2002) XT hydraulic discs Mavic F519 rims with XT hubs Time ATAC carbons Easton CT2 bar and post EA70 stem (90mm with 10 degree rise) ODI Ruffian lock-on grips SDG saddle Gore Ride-On cables Continental Vertical Pro 2.3 tires Bronze Large Frame
Bottom Line:
I am amazed at what the ML-7 does. I was a little skeptical up front about this purchase simply because I was buying it blindly. With the help of Frank though, I felt comfortable enough to give one a try. Man, I am so glad that he talked me into it!! My bike's inaugural ride was a 4-hour, unexpected severe rain and cold temperature ride. Stuck 15 miles from nowhere, I was forced to slug my way through mile after mile of miserable terrain. By the end of the day I was cold, tired, soaked, hungry, and completely at peace with my purchase. The bike was amazing.
I'm glad that I had a first ride like that. That meant that I had to immediately get intimate with the internals. the Fox shock is truly amazing. Simple in concept, simple to maintain, and simply the best XC rear suspension out there. Congrats on this masterpiece Fox.
I mentioned the headset above. Don't be concerned about it. It is easy to take apart and maintain, and as long as you keep it clean and greased, you shouldn't have issues. Just to rest your mind though, Cane Creek contacted me immediately when I sent them a question via email. Again, the service can't be beat.
Go with the recommended setup on the Maverick American Homepage. Everything is top notch, and it's all right in line with the intended use of this bike. I recommend an adjustable travel coil fork though. You can use this bike for such a wide variety of terrain and riding styles that it might best suit you to be able to crank up travel a bit on the fun stuff. Five inches is nice for the bomber stuff, but I love being able to crank my fork down to four inches for trail riding. It fits the geometry a bit better as well.
If you are considering this bike and are having a tough time making up your mind, just look at the approval rating here. High numbers for an outstanding product. It will be the last bike that you own due to both the frame's durability and your unwillingness to ride anything else after you have been on the ML-7!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a
from Vermont Date Reviewed: April 22, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
It works. Plain and simple. This is the first full sus bike I've ridden that always, and I mean ALWAYS, felt like it was on my side. I have yet to feel that I'm incurring any sort of penalty for the plush. It's light enough for this reformed xc race geek, plush enough for the kid inside, and efficient enough for long, hard rides with my ole leg shaving buddies.
Weaknesses:
Time will tell the tale, but as yet, none.
Similar Products Used:
I truly don't believe this is a fair question. There are no similar products. If you wanna know what bikes I've ridden extensively, here goes: IF Deluxe, Giant NRS, C'dale Jekyl, Specialized Enduro, Santa Cruz Superlight
Bike Setup:
XTR, SRAM discs, Psylo, Mavic hoops
Bottom Line:
What's so cool about this bike is the way it crosses the boundaries. Every other full sus I've ridden has always come with what I call the asterick factor. "It's a good bike, but..."
Not this one. It's a great bike, period. No matter what kind of rider you are.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas O'Sullivan
a Cross Country Rider
from Falls Church, VA, USA Date Reviewed: April 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
The Furnace
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Really fun to ride.
Bottom Line:
Some follow up information:
Your integrated headset bearings will wear out in muddy conditions. It is possible to service them by prying off the blue seals with a pin/blade, cleaning, then regreasing. Another option is replacement.
These bearings are manufactured by TH Industries, known in the US as Full Speed Ahead, or FSA. They are sold primarily through Cane Creek. They are also available directly from FSA.
Our bike uses TH Industries 1 1/8 inch, 36/45 degree angular contact bearing. Ask for that bearing and you shall be rewarded. My experiences with both Cane Creek and FSA were pleasant. Customer support from both companies was very helpful.
There was some speculation that Chris King's Perdidio headset would be usable in the Maverick frame. This is a definite NO. There's not enough metal left to machine seats for the King cups. Dang.
Another item to watch out for: My Fox-manufactured rear shock/damper once came unthreaded on a ride, burped, then became unrideable. Fox may have neglected to blue-threadlock the end caps. On the upside, Maverick apologized and fedexed me a new unit the next day.
Fox claims that the damper should ever unthread itself under normal conditions. Maybe they should try riding faster. When you service your rear assembly, I think you should check for tiny gaps growing between end caps and the shock/damper body. Keep that sucker tight. And believe me, when it breaks, the damper is not a user-serviceable item.
If you live in a wet clime, do not use an Avid Flak Jacket shift cable ferrule against the magnesium mono-link's cable stop. This combination will corrode, and odds are you'll eventually have to Dremel out some rotten Avid metal. Not good.
For anyone who is interested, I'd like to put together a list of our bikes' names. Reply to this posting and send me your name (or an alias), your bike's name, and the bike's birthdate. I'll reply, then you can send me an action picture, if you like. I'll find a way to make that list publicly available, with special props for the early adopters.
Rock on.
Tom
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a
from Boston, MA, USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
long ones
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
wrenchscience.com
Strengths:
As others have stated - no unwanted movement. Point it, it goes. Climbs like no other full suspension bike, corners like its on velcro, and rails the downhills. The tight uphill technical single track that I had trouble with on the Tracer was easily done. I was looking for a full suspension bike that handled quicker than the Tracer but could still bomb the fire roads - I found it.
Weaknesses:
n/a
Similar Products Used:
Intense Tracer, GT RTS and LTS (Al and C frames).
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z-2 A bomb, Hope mini discs, Easton stem and bars, Mavic CrossMax tubeless discs, XTR drive train, Michelin Front S and Rear XL tires, Time pedals, Thompson post, WTB saddle. You don't put sh*t on a bike this sweet.
Bottom Line:
Some people really put some thought into the design and construction of this frame. Little details like having the bottom bracket shell tapped and lubed. Bigger details like perfect welds and cosmetics. Biggest detail - closing in on a real world full suspension design that works! Thanks to Tim at wrenchscience.com for scoring this for me and all the guys at Maverick who built this frame and were so helpful in providing advice on building it. The toque and socks were cool as well! I stayed up all night putting it together and then rode all day getting the suspension dialled in over a variety of terrain and obstacles. I am tired as hell but still amped from the ride. Yes its expensive but I never put a price on fun and this bike is the fun machine. It's moto equivalent is the KTM 520 e/xc; in a word - PLUSH! It is the snowboard equivalent of the Prior 4X4 - stand it on the edge and it STICKS!
Obviously, I can't comment on the durability of the bike but having owned a bunch of full suspension bikes, I know what to look for and how to do preventative maintenance. I was a bit concerned about the integrated headset design but I will give it a chance. No worries.
My bike's serial number is the "addict" and I am hooked! If you are into one bike that can possibly do it all and do it well - don't wait, try one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry Stevens
a Cross Country Rider
from Topanga, Ca. Date Reviewed: February 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Strawberry Peak, San Juan Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Wheelworld, Woodland Hills
Strengths:
The design of this frame allows for a great riding bike. The monolink suspension is smooth over large and small bumps. It remains active while braking and doesn't bob while climbing. The overall quality of construction is excellent; the best I have ever seen. It worked perfectly right out of the box.
Weaknesses:
There are none.
Similar Products Used:
GT-RTS, Dean AMP, Dean interupted seat tube, Cannondale Raven, Turner RFX, Giant XTC NRS.
Bike Setup:
XTR, Hayes Discs, Chris King Hubs w 317 Mavicks. Easton riser, Thompson stem and seatpost.
Bottom Line:
This bike rides like its alive. It feels like an extension of my nervouse system sensing and reacting to the trail with the speed of reflex. Climbing on the Maverick is a joy; it doesnt bob or feedback and handles tight situations with ease. Don't try to judge this bike in the parking lot; the suspension feels soft on pavement. On the trail, it holds lines I would never try on my other bikes. Its FAST on descents and corners like my life depends on it, which,given where and how we ride, it does. The Psylo fork modified by Maverick, works really well, The damping and rebound adjustments make a difference in the ride and so far, I haven' t had the problem of air bleeding into the negative chamber, The fork is stiff and gives me a full 4 inches of travel. Stearing is acute, tight swithcebacks? No problem. The bike is steady and quick. My friend has a Fox float fork and a longer stem on his and he loves the way his bike rides ; a little more "cross country." Maverick has responded to all my questions about setup the same day. They fixed a problem on my friends bike in one day. A great company. The bottom line. Everything else is just a bike. Maverick deliver a unique ride that is better in every catagory . Once I tried one, I had to have it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eliot Kaplan
a
from Topanga, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Its a secret.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
Wheel World
Strengths:
Product materials, and design are the best quality I've seen. The full suspension paradigm seems to have shifted. That was my first statement to a friend when we drove to Northern CA to ride one of these the first time. Simply put, the Maverick is better is every aspect of riding than any other bike I know. And I ride lots, and yearly at the InterBike demo days. For climbing technical singletrack, descending technical singletrack, open track fast descending, etc., I know of nothing even close.
On another note, the company support is top notch. After a minor failure with the unique rear sock, Maverick replaced a seal it in a complete two day turn around, and subsequently called to see how it was working! Part of what you get with Maverick is a relationship with this custom frame builder. For me this seemed unusual, yet quite welcome.
Weaknesses:
It's expensive, though a great value relative to what you get! New, well thought out and tested designs are never cheap!
Similar Products Used:
Everything else I've ridden is just a bike. That said, I've owned the first generation Canondale Raven, GT LTS, and many others going back to the mid eighties. My good friend, who also bought a Maverick, replaced his top of the line Giant full suspension, which won some "bike of the year" awards recently. We both also considered Tuner O2 and similar alternatives. None can be compared. We test rode every one.
Bike Setup:
I bought the frame AND full setup. Fox Float 100mm RLC fork, full XTR, Crossmax tubeless, Thompson stem & post, Monkeylite bars, Eggbeater pedals.
The Fox fork makes the bike feel much more like a cross country ride than the trail bike it is designed to be. This was a welcome plus for me. My same friend mentioned above put the Rock Shox fork that Maverick originally spec'd on his, and it feels much more like a trail bike. He's happy too!
Interestingly, both of us have 4" of travel.
Mine weighs in at 26.5 lbs, though it feels lighter than my Raven was at 25 lbs. I attribute that to the handling and related design efficiencies.
Bottom Line:
The neutral handling, no climbing bob, the incredible grippiness on technical ascents, yet responsive AND stable on fast descents, makes this a new paradigm in the industry in my opinion. If you have the budget, test ride one before you buy anything else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gene o A rider
a
from Minneapolis, MN, USA Date Reviewed: January 30, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3333.00
Purchased At:
One On One Studio
Strengths:
The quality, craftmanship, and attention to detail, OUTSTANDING! Adjustable to any condition. More than most any bike or motorcycle! A tuners dream. Solid construction in all the sus bits, no, make that bombproof construction. NO FLEX. Climbing took me a while to get used to. Why? It climbs like no other bike I've ever ridden. Just sit and go. Tracks solid over anything you can throw at it. Durable anodised finish is nice. The best owners manual ever! It has a maintaince log with torque specs. Nobody is this detailed.
Weaknesses:
Maybe the ano finish if it fades. I'll get back to you this fall on that. Some may say price, but come on. This is no different than any other high end product. For example, this Sony VAIO laptop(with all the goodies)I'm typing this review on, $3100. Dakota Arms rifle $5000. Living room couch, $2800. You get the picture, price is not a weakness with this bike, or most any bike for that matter. I'm tired of hearing that excuse. If you want the best you pay for it.
Similar Products Used:
There are none. Nobody has ever made anything like this.
Bike Setup:
SRAM disc brake SRAM XO and SL drivetrain, XTR crank(180mm) WTB rims, tires, saddle(in the middle) KOSKI pedals,bar(11deg bend,550mm width),stem(110mm lentgh,5deg rise) Roomy
Bottom Line:
Like a 4-stroke enduro motorcycle, this is the enduro bicycle. Has this tractable feel to it. Very confident.
I've been riding SS for quite a few years because I was so bummed on all the hype. No hype here.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas O'Sullivan
a Cross Country Rider
from Falls Church, VA Date Reviewed: November 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Furnace
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Princeton Sports
Strengths:
Perfect, completely neutral handling.
Weaknesses:
None whatsoever. Well, maybe the super-relaxed seat tube angle. It makes saddle positioning tricky.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale full suspension bikes: Jekyll 3000SL, Scalpel 4000. Couple of hardtails: IF Deluxe, Paramount R80. Also, a Klein Mantra URT. Really, there's nothing similar.
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, with a set of Dave's SpeedDream Wheels (Hugi + Velocity) and Hayes Discs. Raceface XY0 seatpost, Thompson stem, LP composite low-rise bars. On a large frame, running IRC Mythos 2.1s, the total package weighs just about 26 pounds.
Bottom Line:
This is probably the best ever trail bike. As I said, the ride is completely neutral.
You ride faster. You find a new source of daring in your heart. And you laugh.
It's a wonderful, magnificent machine. Think Porsche 959, Ferrari 288 GTO, or Lancia Delta S4.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kelly
a Cross Country Rider
from Durango Date Reviewed: October 12, 2001
I went to Interbike promising my wife that I had no intention of buying anything, that I was perfectly happy with my Ellsworth. Then I rode the Maverick at the Outdoor Demo. The bar just got raised. The Maverick changes the whole scenario of what comprises a performance mountain bike. The best term I can use to describe it is 'calm'. It does its job of eating bumps and obstacles so well that you can devote your energy to pedaling and aiming it. It serenely floats through the backcountry, allowing you to conserve your energy for the long haul. The bike literally disappears underneath you and you fling yourself headlong down the trail with total abandon. The closest comparison to me is riding a dirtbike, all you have to do is keep the power on and it eats everything in its path. I have only three rides on it since I built it, but I find myself cleaning sections that I have never cleaned, riding faster than I could dream with a feeling of total security, and finishing the ride with more energy than ever before. I look forward to the Wednesday night ride, there's gonna be some surprised fellers. As far as price? We think nothing of going down to the local auto dealer and buying a $20-30,000.00 dollar vehicle. This will give you more fun and satisfaction than you could ever dream of getting from a gas-guzzler. I will drive my old truck for a few extra years for the privilege of enjoying this bike. Call Russ at Durango Cyclery and find out for yourself.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob the Techno-Slut
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: September 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Strengths:
I owned a '99 Tracer before I had this bike and tested a slew of other high-end rides that all performed well,and I figured the Maverick wouldn't be that much better. Boy,was I wrong.This bike is amazing.Awesome climbing and downhill performance,corners as if on rails.Has so much traction!!I have scaled up 50-degree hills full of loose soil that my Tracer would fumble on.So plush and responsive! On top of that,the finishing and workmanship is beautiful.Ti/mag hardware,beautiful welds,flawless eletro-plated finish.One look will tell you that this bike is built to last a damn long time.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy at 27 lbs,but it never feels that weighty.The M-bits Psylo had some early reliabilty problems,but mine seems to be fine.Comes only in one color(fortunately,I like that color).VERY expensive($3500 for frame,fork,shock,headset,and memorabilia,over $5k complete).Ouch!However,it's well worth it...
Similar Products Used:
Previously owned a Tracer--demo'd Ellsworth,Titus,Santa Cruz,Aeon,countless others.
Bike Setup:
Medium frame,custom Psylo,all-XTR,Hayes Hydraulic disks,XT Disk/Mavic 521 wheels,Time ATAC,Selle Italia XO saddle,Thompson post/stem,Easton Monkeylite riser bar--trailbike setup
Bottom Line:
Wow.This incredible bike has left me speechless.And I thought that my Tracer was *as good as it gets*!Bottom line,if you're looking for an "ultimate trailbike" that will outlast you and you've got plenty of cash on hand,this is the pick of the litter.End of discussion!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Johnson
a Cross Country Rider
from Alsager Date Reviewed: September 15, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3589.00
Purchased At:
Sideways Cycles
Strengths:
Sorry but this is another update. This bike is phenomenal. The sicker the trail, the bettr it works. You can ride all the stuff that has beaten you before on a Maverick, and waste all followers. They cannot ride where you can. Up, down or whatever, the bike is unflappable. I now look for excuses to ride the Maverick instead of anything else. Truly a groundbreaking design. Fantastic.
Weaknesses:
It has no weakness. Even cost is not an issue after you take the plunge. Money well spent.
Similar Products Used:
Superlight, Bullit, FSR, RTS1-remember that?
Bike Setup:
As below.
Bottom Line:
Wow.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Nokomis, FL USA Date Reviewed: September 6, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
This is an update. I now like this bike even more. We have some very tight, twisty, root infested trails here in Florida. This bike makes you worry only about the trail, the bike just disappears under you. I have never had this feeling on a bike before, it's very cool.
Weaknesses:
In my previous review I downgraded the Psylo. Part my fault and part Rock Shox. The rebound was screwed up. The adjuster on the fork does not work. Once I figured that out (my fault I'm slow!) and adjusted it correctly I really like th fork.
Similar Products Used:
Same as before
Bike Setup:
Same .....
Bottom Line:
Again, this is a great riders bike. It will allow you to go further and longer with less energy. the bike gets out of your way and lets you just ride. No special pedaling style or seating postion to "let the bike work". Just get the suspension setup once and ride. Very nice, try one if you can, you'll fall in love.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sara
a Cross Country Rider
from Durango, CO USA Date Reviewed: August 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
CT
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
a very comfortable ride. Maintains traction while climbing. I was able to clean sections of the trail that I have never cleaned before!
Weaknesses:
Heavier bike than what I am used to. Disc brakes drag now & then. Frustrating because there doesn't seem like you can do much to fix them "in the field". A pain to put the rear wheel in the dropout.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose Amp 10 years ago - one of the first full suspension bikes back then
Bike Setup:
Maverik American small frame w/XTR Shimano group
Bottom Line:
This bike was incredible! I was very reluctant beforehand since I am a small person & very weight conscious about my bike. This was a big jump from what I had been riding. I purposely picked a trail with a huge climb (1.5 hours) & then a big, twisty-turny, technical downhill. I had the most fun I've had in a long, long time on a MTB. I was amazed how well it climbed & my overall time to the top of the climb was very similar to rides previous. Of course the ride down was unbelievable & I was laughing like a kid all the way down! I wasn't ready to quit riding & was completely refreshed instead of fatigued at the bottom (mentally & physically)!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Nokomis, FL Date Reviewed: August 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Ditto for most everyone else has said about the bike. Fit was excellent for me, I have an XL. I felt at home on this bike faster than any other previous bike. Not the lightest but gives a great ride over a wide range or terrain. Get one or buy one Seven Cycles versions, they should be cool. People at Maverick and their concept are great.
Weaknesses:
I don't think the psylo is that great.
Similar Products Used:
Turner O2, Ellsworth Truth ('99), Monolith, Seven Teres, several hardtails.
Bike Setup:
XTR, XT discs, Thompson stem & post, Daves wheels, Easton bar, etc...
Bottom Line:
Ok, this bike is well made, cool looking and rides great. But if I had a Turner O2 or Truth or other top ride would I drop them for this bike? We'll I do have them and I do like this bike better. But do not expect the difference to be huge, they are all good bikes. So if you can swing the $$$$ then go for it, you will not go wrong. I'll reserve 1 flamin chili for the Psylo fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cully
a Racer
from mission viejo Date Reviewed: August 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
maverick direct
Strengths:
The most versatail bike I have ever ridden.. I a bike that you can go take out on a fun little spin, Take it to the bmx trails and rip it up and take to the races and with a tire change race either dual or x-c.. It Rips..
Weaknesses:
Paul Turner won't come out to the races and clean it....
Similar Products Used:
schwinn rocket 88,I-drive gt..
Bike Setup:
full shimano with titec and sun parts.. maxxis tires
Bottom Line:
The best bike I have ever ridden.. No more need for a x-c,freeride,road,bmx.This bike does it all....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Racer
from mill valley Date Reviewed: August 15, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
mill valley cycleworks
Strengths:
this frameset is all about strength and agility. it is stiff laterally and still provides a supple ride with little to no weight penalty depending on how its built up. it sacrafices nothing and gives everything. the seat can be lowered, the suspension can be adjusted in several different ways to suit any rider, and it looks great. there is no bob when you peddle, and there is no annoying ghost shifting from the chain tension differences that occur on the other standard dualies. I have ridden most of the popular dual suspension bikes and they dont compare to the maverick. this bike is as impactual as the first front suspension was. it provides an absolutely rock solid and stable feel while eating up the bumps of any size. the new valving on the fork is very well done. this is the answer to anyone considering buying a dual suspension but is worried about sacrificing weight or performance for comfort. this frameset provides comfort and an awesome technical suspension that wont let you down. no, average is not good enough for me.
Weaknesses:
its costly, but once you ride it you will realize the difference it makes. no weakness's that i can find.
Similar Products Used:
most other standard dual suspension bikes. fsr, santa cruz, etc...etc...
Bike Setup:
all xtr excetpt the xt disks. mavic disk rims with chris king hubs, grip shift (oops-sram), thompson post and stem (130), flite saddle.
Bottom Line:
this bike is as important to dual suspension bikes as the first front suspension was to hard tails. it simply works better than anything else available. it solves all of the tricky problems with dual suspension bikes and wraps it up into a neat and tidy monster. it isnt just coincidence that the first real front suspensions came from the same brain. it worked magic then and it is starting all over with the maverick. my hats off to you all who have built them and to all who are willing to go out on a limb and ride a real dual suspension cross country-anything you want it to be machine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Silberman
a Cross Country Rider
from Nederland, colorado Date Reviewed: August 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
I can't pick just one.....
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3589.00
Purchased At:
Surly frank's
Strengths:
Where to begin.... The bike is flat out fast! up or down. The best thing I can say about the bike is that it listens very well. You don't have to adjust your style to fit the bike. The bike is very willing to get out if the way and just let you ride. The fit and balance are without a doubt the best I've ever had between my legs. you'll never ride a bike with less pedel/suspension interaction. No band-aid lock out needed here!. One thing to consider is that this a machine that performs best at high speed. I have not found it's limits....yet.
Weaknesses:
None, other then people won't leave me alone when I'm trying to ride. My bike has shown me nothing but love!
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS & I drive, Santa cruz superlight, specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
XTR & Easton...top shelf! Why do it when you can over do it.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is this. Buy one! you'll never ride a better rig. In the end it's cheaper. Buy nice or by twice!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a
from edgartown, ma, usa Date Reviewed: August 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The fully equipped bike is very light, highly manueverable and extremely durable. It rides very well over a variety of terrains and conditions. The suspension works flawlessly, up hill, down hill and over all sorts of bumps and obstacles. In fact the bike and suspension work so well it seems as if there is no suspension at all. It's there when you need it and seems to disappear when you don't.
The company and its employees have beem extremely pro-active, courtesy and want to insure that you get the bike and experienmce you require. They have been patient answering questions (large and small), shown great professionalism/expertise and truly have a passion for the sport.
I have owned a variety of road and off-road bikes. My experience with the bike and company have exceeded my very high expectations. It is a bike i will use for years and hopefully beat into the ground. Well done - my highest ratings.
Weaknesses:
The bike comes in one color only. I would have liked more choices. That's about it.
Like all things, you get what you pay for. This is a well built, fun to ride off-road machine. I have ridden many dual suspension bikes (mine and friends) and nothing comes close. The company is great and works hard to insure customers are satisfied.
Since the bike is not cheap it requires someone willing to spend the money to get state of the art. The bike can handle the most technical trails I ride. I'm a very experienced rider willing to try most trails but definately not a dare devil.
The bottom line is that this bike will take your skills and experience as far as you want them to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ward Dominick
a Cross Country Rider
from Cody, Wyoming,USA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all of em
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Frank's Sports
Strengths:
This is NO bike! It's total MOTO...up, down where ever you ride. I have felt soooo confident on the climbs that little seems out of grasp whether I'm in the saddle or not. And I don't even think that's the good part...It's the ripping descents that this baby flies. I have never felt such a jump in the fun meter!
Weaknesses:
I don't even think price should be considered as a weakness, you either make it happen or you don't. I will complain about the RS Psylo just a little. Mine burps and has had a bit of a topping out issue. However, Rock Shox has sent me a new one asap which pleases me much.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS, Specialized FSR, GT i-drive
Bike Setup:
SWEET!
Bottom Line:
There is nothing like the Maverick. I have no complaints, or regrets. As a matter of fact, I bought one for my wife. Let's be fair kids, there's no way I was gonna share mine. I have several GOOD bikes to choose from...I just can't bear to let them go. They hold too many fond memories of riding through pastoral meadows deep within thier framesets, but the Maverick is the one rolling down the trail now. It has been all I could ever want and when I come into a nasty cobbled up corner way too hot and it looks like real pain is knockin' on my door the Maverick tears it up...I just have to giggle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Johnson
a Cross Country Rider
from Alsager Date Reviewed: August 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Burnt Rice, Hanchurch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Sideways Cycles, U.K.
Strengths:
Climbs like Spiderman. I can and have ridden stuff on this bike that is just plain silly. Even with the useless Slipallovertheplacysaurus WTB tyres I put on. Smooth beyond beleif on the lumpy stuff. Not really tried it on a hairy DH yet, but I have one in mind. Exclusivety.
Weaknesses:
Cost, durability? Only time will tell.
Similar Products Used:
Superlight, FSR, ARC.
Bike Setup:
Just stuff I'd got lying unsold. Shimano/Hope brakes, RaceFace cranks, Bontrager front wheel, Easton stuff. All up 26lbs.
Bottom Line:
If you want the ultimate rough ground climbing bike at any cost, this is the one for you. Not cheap, but the quality remains long after the price is forgotten. Slick roots, rocky trails and lumpy stuff all dealt with - easily. Buy one if you have the money. Preferably from me 8~)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Irene (Reen) Jans
a Cross Country Rider
from Winter Park, CO USA Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Arrow Trail/Cody's Paw
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Smoooooth ride....hubby says my backend doesn't "bob" up and down! (so what's he doing behind me anyway???) Let's me play and get away with stuff that my old bike didn't. Stable, good climber! Makes me look good!
Weaknesses:
People stare...expect me to be Tinker! Think that I'm loaded...it's only priorities, bike first, food next!
Bottom Line:
Great bike, my Rock Shox is still good, but I'm worried. Awesome ride, worth every penny! Created by a pro...genius guy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chipps Chippendale
a Cross Country Rider
from Bath, UK Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Joe's Ridge, Fruita
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Strengths:
The Maverick is a great and innovative looking bike, yet it still manages to look 'normal' - which put me off some of the big girder swingarm kind of bikes. The Mav climbs like a demon, even slow fat journos like me can put the power down on the climbs. There's no 're-learning' needed to ride it and no nasty surprises in store.
Weaknesses:
It's incredibly expensive - especially out of the US, like here in the UK. We'll have to see about the long term durability of the rear shock and pivots placed right where the grit is going to get to them. I'm also not over-impressed with the descending of the bike. Being a semi-URT kind of thing, there's a tendency for the bike to get a bit 'choppy' on the real bumpy stuff. However, on everything else, it's great. The internal headset is still something that's going to have to prove itself to the world...
Bike Setup:
All the good stuff - it'd be rude not to.
Bottom Line:
If you can afford the huge, huge price tag, then this will probably be the last bike you'll want - for a good while at least. It's a great technical climber's bike and sings on the up, down and rolling singletrack. Downhill it's no match for something like an Orange or Santa Cruz, but then it's never claimed to be a DH demon. It's best as an all-day trail cruising/thrashing epic bike. The finish of the bike, the look and the quality of service and feedback from Maverick are second to none - but then it (almost) should be expected for the price, however the Maverick boys really want you to love their bikes and go that extra yard to please. Again, if you've got that sort of money to drop on a bike (plus the extra cash to outfit it with the spanky stuff it deserves) then you're a lucky, rich cat, however you'll be happy with your purchase...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil Jans
a Cross Country Rider
from Winter Park, Colorado Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lo Chi Min
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The rear wheel just stays on the ground! Climbs great. Very balanced -- which inspires confidence. I'm riding better than ever.
Weaknesses:
The Rock Shox fork has been a pain -- it burps air and collapses.
Similar Products Used:
I road a Specialized FSR XC for 2 years and almost didn't switch to the Maverick because I liked the Specialized so much. I'm glad I did switch.
Bottom Line:
The Maverick is a great all-around bike. It is FUN! It did so much for my riding that I felt guilty and bought my wife one. (True)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Blick
a Cross Country Rider
from Laguna Beach , CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
B-17
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This bike can be described with one word...FAST!
Weaknesses:
RockShox Psylo Race has Issues with air "burping" from the positive spring into the negative causing the fork to sag way too much. It wiil not do it immedatly, sometimes takes a few good hard hits to make this happen. RockShox and Maverick are already on the case so most people will not need to worry about this. Not all RockShox Psylos will have this problem, it will be either good from the start or bad like a burnt cookie!!
Similar Products Used:
I have been riding GT i-Drive bikes for four years. I enjoy the "feel" of unrestricted pedaling, and the ability to "plow" thru anything in my path!!!
It is all about business. It can climb over rough un even rock strewn trails, then turn a clean line right back down.
The suspension setup is simple, just follow the guidelines in the tuning manual. All you have to do is set the "Sag o' Meter on the top shock mounting bolt, then sit on the bike and air up the shock until it lines up with the designated setting, with that done you are good to go.
That's about it...It is what it is...One Bad Ass bike!!!
GET ONE!!
-Blick
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy Mandery
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, Colorado USA Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Many
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Sports Garage / Boulder, CO
Strengths:
Virtually no "bob" created by pedal strokes. Tracks like a mo-fo. Point & go! Hooks up great climbimg as well. Instantly faster on downhills than my hardtail. This bike can be tuned extremely rigid or soft. 4" travel front & back.
Weaknesses:
Price is a tough one to swallow. But, I've done it & now the only thing I look back on is other riders!
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Superlight / Rocky Mountain Element
Bike Setup:
SRAM Shifters & R. Der / Magura Louise Hyd Disc Brakes / Salsa Disc Wheels / XT hubs / Thompson Seat Post & Stem / WTB Laser saddle / Easton Riser Bars
Bottom Line:
This is a ride every moderate to serious rider can get on & appreciate immediately. Especially those coming from a hardtail. It's not as light as most hardtails but you more than make up for it in speed & fun factor on the downhills. I'm not regretting a dime spent to ride this rig! There are a lot of demo bikes available from Maverick. Get on one & try it. Even if you don't buy one, you'll have a great ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$ 2695.00
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
