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Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Connecticut
Date Reviewed: November 26, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | woods | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Strong/Durable (I'm 220 lbs) , Replacable Derailleur Hanger | | Weaknesses: | Pain Chips easy and lame decals, who cares though... | | Similar Products Used: | Speciallized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Homemade, Deore XT, LX, Manitou Black shocks, 22" | | Bottom Line: | This frame is excellent. I bought it because I was interested in building myself a customized mountain bike. I'm confident that it's one of the best frames I could get for under 250$. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Walter B.
a Weekend Warrior
from Baltimore,MD.
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Gunpowder state park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | super -blow, Chandler, AZ. | | Strengths: | Inexpensive Aluminum frame | | Weaknesses: | Complete lack of support from the manufacturer/vendor.
the paint chips if you fart on it !!! | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up to an eairlier review. I've had time to finish assembling the bike and to put it through it's paces.
Well, the biggest complaint about the frame is trying to get a replacment rear hanger before I broke the original one. As usual,supergo( now refered to as super-blow)CANNOT come through with anything that resembled customer assistance.I think that their idea of customer assistance is when they assist you in taking your money for a sale,after that you are on your own,pal!(just incase anyone is interested, I was never able to obtain a replacment hanger from them,so I machined my own.)Outside of that, I'm fairly satisfied with the frame. It's flexy when hammering up hill,but I'm also a big guy so I'm sure that has a lot to do with it.I also noticed that the head tube gusset IS NOT fully welded, so i'm sure that it is mostly cosmetic.All in all,I got what I paid for: an entry level aluminum frame that accepts a 6" rear rotor.I'll just ride the bike until I run across a great deal on a higher level frame.I still have to give a low rating because of super-blows business practices and lack of customer service.
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Embry
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin
Date Reviewed: June 15, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Greenbelt | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | 7005 Aluminum, price, stiffness | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | Nishiki cro-mo frame | | Bike Setup: | Next LP, Syncros post, Kore stem, Selle Flite, Shimano XT, Rock Shox Judy | | Bottom Line: | Great price, no problems. Solid frame, stiff and responsive, has handled everything thrown at it. For this price spend your money on components, you won't regret it. Don't let the price fool you, this frame compares to $300+ frames, and easiloy wins on price!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Rohe
a Cross Country Rider
from Tallahassee, FL, USA
Date Reviewed: March 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Tom Brown Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Weight - 18inch was 4.1 lbs.
Price!
| | Weaknesses: | Odd seatpost size (easily overcome with a shim)
Ugly stickers (but I'm riding not posing) | | Similar Products Used: | Heavy beast of a FS | | Bike Setup: | 99 jett fork, FSA headset, generic cranks with Time ATACs, Centura 8 speed with XT rear and Alivio front derailuers. Aireon susp. seatpost with Koombi seat. Spent under $250 (thanks in part to various parts I've picked up gratis. | | Bottom Line: | Nice hardtail for almost nothing. I dropped 6 lbs on the bike by going to this frame (old bike was a FS beast). It climbs well, and is stiff enough for good handling. Everyone has commented on it being a great deal. Can't argue that. Rides like a dream. If you've got a family and the wife won't give you a big bike budget, buy one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Walter B.
a Weekend Warrior
from Balto. Md. USA
Date Reviewed: March 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Gunpowder State Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$99.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo retail store,Phoenix ,AZ | | Strengths: | -decent welds
- int'l disc mounting lugs
- Price | | Weaknesses: | -UGLY decals that are clear coated in place
- not all color/size combo's in store stock
- limited to a 6" rotor in the rear.(chain stay clearence issues) | | Similar Products Used: | mid '90's DBR hardtail (still have/ride it)
Jamis dakar f/s.(biggest piece -o-poo ever made) | | Bike Setup: | new Judy S/L
XT disc hubs/bontrager asym wheels
maguara clara's
XT f&r derailluers
Race face crank set
FSA orbit XL2 headset
LX 9sp. pods
syncros stem
Pedros' grips
serfas saddle | | Bottom Line: | I just got this frame a few weeks ago while on a field assignment with my company.I had purchased a few things mail order from super go in the past and was very less- than- satisified with the products and the complete lack of customer service when I tried to get the missing pieces or to return the products,so I was a little hesitent to go into the store.I had seen the ad for the access H/T frame for $99 and I had thought about building up a hydraulic disc brake bike.
When I got into the store and started looking at the frames, I was impressed with what I saw in the frames. They also had some good deals on forks and hubs and some other components.The problems started when I wanted answers to techinical questions about the frames and forks. The salespeople didn't know a damn thing about anything they were trying to sell.All they could do was read to me what the sale ad description said.They were also fairly high pressure in their nature. I ended up buying the frame and a fork from them, but can honestly say that I won't ever walk into another one of their stores. The frame is still in my work stand,waiting for me to face the head tube and install the fork. So far every thing has installed very nicely, the rear caliper aligned very well, bottom bracket went in very easy.The paint finish is nice and shiny, although it seems to scratch very easy. So far it seems like a good buy at $99,But i'm going to have to give supergo a poor rating because of the shopping experience.I'll post another rating after I get the bike running and thrash it the woods for a few weeks.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$119.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Price, Size & Color selections. Value-comes with seat tube and QR collar. | | Weaknesses: | Obnoxious Decals, may have disc rotor clearance issue in smaller frame sizes. | | Similar Products Used: | None-I paid more for my last pair of shoes!
First HT I've owned in 10 years | | Bike Setup: | 2001 Large (20") Black Frame. Marzocchi Z2Xfly, XT/XTR group, Hayes hydro disc | | Bottom Line: | I needed a bike in a hurry while waiting for warranty on my full suspension frame. My last 2 bikes were FS, so I didn't want to invest heavily in a hardtail. My brother has 2 Access HT bought, ridden, and abused over the past 5 years, and they've stood up well. So, I ordered the Access and some extra parts, and 2 days later had a bike to build. It went together very easily (my first build from scratch), and it rides very well (for a hardtail). It's pretty light, and I have no unnecessary flex problems with my 6'3" 205lbs weight. The geometry was a bit off with a 2001 Xfly 100, so I put on an 80mm Z2 Xfly, and it's much more rideable. So far it's survived multiple thrashings at Lynn Woods and Great Brook.
If you're interested in running discs on the rear with medium or smaller frames, you'll want to ask a tech at Supergo if you'll have clearance problems with the rotor. I run Hayes 6" in the rear and have < 3mm clearance at steady state.
I ordered with 2 extra derailleur hangers just in case. They're pretty beefy as far as hangers go.
Here's a great value-if you're looking for a backup bike, or don't see the need to spend big bucks on a hardtail, pick up 1 or 2! Heck, why not collect all 5?? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Superdan
a Downhiller
from Highlands ranch CO
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | porcupine rim | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$119.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo | | Strengths: | -Very in-expensive
-Good quality for price
-Massive tubeset
-Few decals
-good paint | | Weaknesses: | -Clearcoat over downtube decals so they can't be removed | | Similar Products Used: | my first hardtail in seven years, so nothing, especially for
$120 | | Bike Setup: | freeride hartail, psylo SL, rhyno lite rims | | Bottom Line: | I built up a complete bike for under $400 dollars with a rock shox Psylo fork, If I were to go to a bike shop and ask for a high quality freeride hartail for that price they would laugh at me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Penfold .
a Cross Country Rider
from California
Date Reviewed: July 27, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything nasty | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Light and tough, cheap, pretty good welds for the price. Mine was surprisingly true out of the box. | | Weaknesses: | The decals. Questionable drop-out strength. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher, Giant and others. | | Bike Setup: | Full XT with mega-9, Easton carbon seatpost, Ti rail saddle, Rigid Fork found at the back of my garage, unknown origins - probably not the best in the world, Chris King Headset, 145mm 0 rise Titec stem, Flat carbon bars, 1" Slicks, Wellgo 800 pedals. Avid arch rivals, Sun subIV's on XT wheels - re-built with d/b aero spokes, and sprayed matt black. | | Bottom Line: | Built out of the spares I had partly as a joke. Used as a road bike for commuting and terrorising the local roadies. Very light, very fast, also looks a little unusual.
I have taken it trailing a couple of times (Yes I changed the wheels first) it is a little slow to turn, but that is good as it adds stability, great on the downhill.
Mine is/was a Black 1999 model, I removed the decals, and in doing so, most of the original paint, a virtual full respray was required before I even built it.
I have not had any problems with the frame in around 1000 miles of riding, everything bolted together easily.
The Geometry is a little conservative compared to my Fisher, but it is forgiving, and easy to ride, probably the ideal first time builders bike.
Great value, but those decals are inexcusable, so the overal rating has to come down I am afraid.
Oh yes, one thing, buy a couple of spare dropouts when you buy the frame, I trashed one, and it took three weeks to get a new one. Luckily mine was only bent, and I was able o ride whilst waiting for the new ones. I now have two spares...
The small frame would make a great D/S intro bike, especially if you added a couple of webs to the frame....
Now if you could order it sans decal's I would give it 5 flamers, but as it is..... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ray
a Cross Country Rider
from State College, PA
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | -low price
-good and stiff
-good colours
-removable decals | | Weaknesses: | -SuperGo's poor customer service | | Similar Products Used: | -'95 Wheeler 2800
-'91 Specilized Rock HopperCroMo
-'94 Bridgestone MB3 | | Bike Setup: | LX/XT mix with a Manitou SX | | Bottom Line: | This review is to balance out my 1 chilly review from this past summer. I had just busted off the dropout. I was upset when a SuperGo customer service rep told me there were to be no more rear dropouts aval. for my frame.
A few days after my posting, a customer service rep from SuperGo saw it and told me they were aval. and the customer rep I talked to was just wrong. So overall rating (5+1)/2 = 3. Three out of five is about right consider the whole affair. Value is good at 4 of 5. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Swank
a Weekend Warrior
from Davenport Iowa
Date Reviewed: October 12, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Sugar Bottom Coralville Ia | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
The cost of the frame is unbeatable for the product you get | | Weaknesses: |
The paint chips easy, The decals are ugly, the rear derailler hanger is cheap and easy to bend, replacement availability is questionable. | | Bike Setup: |
All XT equipment, Mavic 236 rims, Manitou SX-LE fork | | Bottom Line: | I got this frame over 2 years ago and have ridden it hard the entire time I've had it. The bike is light and unbeatable for the price. One weakness==the rear derailler hanger. I have bent 3 hangers. Then Supergo sent me the wrong replacements twice. My advice, buy this frame, but buy at least 4 or 5 hangers with it so you don't have to worry about replacement availability. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
blitzcat
a Cross-Country Rider
from Raleigh, NC
Date Reviewed: August 11, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
-Low cost, excellent value
-Replaceable derailer hanger
-Stiff (hence aluminum), I like stiff. I spin a 60 tooth ring on the road, so i can bend a noodle frame. This met the stiff test.
-Good geometry. I finally decided to order mine as my old parkpre was making me sterile due to where i landed on the stem... | | Weaknesses: |
-The decals do leave a lot to be desired. I was gonna pull mine off. But they get noticed every ride by riders asking about the frame.
-Lack of chainguard on chainstay
-Odd seatpost size (I don't believe in shimming, so no suspension seatposts for me)
-Needs disk brake mount
-Monsterous down tube that wont fit in any upright roof rack holder
-No serial numbers on BB | | Similar Products Used: |
A Murray (tacoed frame & wheels), a Parkpre, Trek ALU and Carbon frames | | Bike Setup: |
20 Black with Mango Answer SX-R w/alloy steerer, Heavy XT mix. All parts are black aside from cranks and seatpost.
Black butted spokes. Mavic 220/517 Rims. | | Bottom Line: | The best low cost deal in town. I was very happy with it. You might not be when you call though. This might have been the last in this production run. Black was the only color left and 20 was the only size left. I had to wait a week to see if they even had any in the warehouse. Get the front derailer when you order it or your gonna be staring at it for another week while one that will fit gets shipped to you.
I'd do it again without thinking twice. It arrived well packed with nothing missing. I got the BB from Supergo and they installed it free. Supergo wasn't too bad to deal with. But they aren't my favorite... I stick to Universal Cycles when I can.
Also plan on getting a new suspension fork...its got a long head tube. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Walpole, Ma
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Light, stiff, cool colors. | | Weaknesses: |
Lame decals. | | Similar Products Used: |
Gary Fisher Big Sur, Mongoose IBOC, Marin Bolinas Ridge. | | Bike Setup: |
Marzocchi Z3 Light, LX/XT components. | | Bottom Line: | I was looking for a new frame to replace my bolinas ridge. After reading the reviews, I decided on the Access frame. I got the frame for my birthday, and by the weekend, I was on the trails. This frame really rocked. I was at first surprised at how light and squirrly it was. Once I was used to the new light weight, my riding and climbing improved greatly. I was thrashing and trashing my riding buddies regularly on this bike.If you are considering buying this frame, stop hemming and hawing and pick up the phone and call Supergo. For $199 you can't get a better frame, period. Five flaming red hot chillies for this one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ray
a Cross-Country Rider
from State College, PA
Date Reviewed: June 16, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
-low price
-good and stiff
-good colours
-removable decals | | Weaknesses: |
-SuperGo does not have replacement dropouts as they claim to
-SuperGo's poor customer service | | Similar Products Used: |
Wheeler 2800 CroMo frame
Specilized Rock HopperCroMo frame | | Bike Setup: |
LX/XT mix with a Manitou SX | | Bottom Line: | I have had the frame for about a year. I bought it from SuperGo for a sweet price with the fork, headset, stem, bar, brakes and seatpost. I had no complaints regarding the frame until just last week. I broke the rear dro out off this weekend. I called SuperGo about to order a replacement and THEY DO NOT HAVE THEM IN STOCK. So basically now my frame is now worthless. I've got to go buy a new frame and fork and start all over again. I cannot fathom how SuperGo can sell this frame, and still are selling it today, and not keep replacement dropouts. Obviously SuperGo does not really stand behind their products. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john cloyd
a cross-country rider
from New Hampshire
Date Reviewed: February 11, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
My wonderful wife got me an Access frame with fork for Christmas, which I built up with ESP 9.0 shifters, rear der.,& brake levers, XT cassette & frt.der. I ridden some snow with it, and a lot of road (hey it's ice here!) and am thrilled with the bike. The finish out of the box was beautiful when I removed the decals, but my lil' one knocked it over and the bar ends took a nice chunk out of the top tube paint. I've chipped it some riding too, seems pretty easy to do, but wtf ? The problems with BB, brake posts, etc. were not a problem for me - this thing went right together. The only budget part I used at all were some LX take off wheels from Irving Bike Source ($69), I figure that leaves me something to upgrade later. Used and FSA Conix too, worked real well. I'm in it for under $700, which for the low weight & high quality components seems to be a damned nice price.jc
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Kestas
a cross-country rider
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: January 10, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased a 20 ALU from Supergo after reading these reviews to replace my 21 KHS Comp FZ. I'm fortunate to live within driving distance of Supergo in Fountain Valley (Love that new Laguna Hills Tollway!!!). The staff in the retail shop had little knowledge of the frame, but pulled out a measuring tape for me to check the geometry, and were actually pleasantly helpful, despite the reputation that preceded them. I noticed some of the defects posted here on a couple of the frames hangin' in the shop...brake studs out of alignment and bottle cage bolts misaligned. They wouldn't cut me a deal on the one with with the bad cage bolts, so I took my 2nd color choice to get one that passed my scrutiny. I'm 6'3 200+, but decided to go with the smaller 20 frame for singletrack. Also bought a 98 Manitou SX TPC for $155 and a better headset (advise you to do the same). I wouldn't buy the package deal they have with the Pro LT fork, as it is a pogo stick. $30 xtra = TPC = PLUSH! It assembled perfectly, even took my 68mm BB from the KHS. It looks mighty after the stickers are peeled! I owned a Klein Pinnacle a few years ago, and this is...for all practical purposes...just as good (but GOD I miss that Klein! I sold it to go to Europe a few years ago). My only female-dog-in-heat is that the seatpost is an oddball 30.4...hard to find a 400 mm in that diameter. The finish looks awesome; I know it won't last, but it's a canidate for buffing-out raw when the paint's gone. So far so good...light, stiff, responsive, impressive, inexpensive, 2 year warranty...I'll post again after I hammer it a couple months. 5 roastin' rats for the one I picked out. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron Roberts
a weekend warrior
from Battle Creek, Michigan
Date Reviewed: November 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had several bicycles, including full suspension, that I have been less than satisfied with. The best was a Trek 8000 shx. I had given that one to a friend in need and decided to replace it with one build from scratch. Pricing the frames, I found the reviews and price of the Supergo frames to be very good. I liked the design and overall specs. I got the gloss black with a Manitu Pro fork. I built it with XT deraillers, LX crank, Mavic wheelset with LX hubs, Gripshift 8.0, and lots of other extras. After all parts, including the extra tools and cycling computer, I had between $900 and $950 into it. After the first real ride I loved the bike. It felt responsive and rode like a dream. Everything works well on the bike and everything is what I wanted (because I ordered the parts I wanted). So far, I have rode quite hard on the bike (I weigh 195) and have had no problems. I must say, this is the best bike I've ever owned. Just for comparison, I've owned a Cannondale Super-V, a Trek 8000, and a Proflex 956. Personally I have had no problems with Supergo except for one time with a rather rude salesperson. Otherwise they've been OK. Great frame for the money. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony Zanussi
a cross-country rider
from Kailua, Oahu
Date Reviewed: November 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I was checking out rigid rear bikes over here in Hawaii and just couldn't believe the prices for anything spec'd in XT! I remembered the ad I saw in Supergo for their Access frame and then looked here for a review. So, based on the overall rating it has received I decided to buy a Ferrari Red one in 22 with a Manitou Pro and build it up with a 98'XT gruppo I bought here and there on special from a couple different mail order companies. I received the frame in only 3 days and loved it from the moment I saw it. (Supergo was real quick and I had absolutely no problems)The bottom bracket was nice and clean with no facing problems like one rating said. The XT UN-72 screwed in perfectly. I really liked the replacable rear derailleur mount. I had a local shop cut and mount the fork, then replaced the Kalloy stem with a shorter Ritchey. Added Ritchey bars and pedals, Mavic 217's built on XT hubs with Ritchey rubber, and my favorite Terry Men's Liberator saddle, and off I went. The bike actually looked quite extremely gaudy all shiny red and new. Off to the local mud hole, which are plentiful around here.The ride felt great, light and stiff. Really responsive cranking up hills around here. The handling is not quite as quick as my last mount was, but it works great nonetheless. I found the paint looks awesome but it does chip easily from rocks and crap. The surface seems kind of brittle. But it has been a great buy so far, and a full XT bike for under $1200 is amazing for this place! Weighing 220 pds I know I will need to replace the elastomer in the fork before next Christmas, but the Manitou Pro seems extremely sturdy and works great. I e-mailed HEVN Superstruts and they have struts to fit. I am sure I will replace the FSA headset in the near future, since it indeed does loosen up quickly. For the money and value I will give it a all 5 chilis, even with the brittle paint, since an MTB is meant to ride and thrash anyhow. It does a great job, and is easily mistaken for a high end Trek. It has turned into quite the mystery bike around here w/o the decals. Buy one, you won't regret it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chuck Tievsky
a weekend warrior
from USA
Date Reviewed: November 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a high quality product for a bargain basement price. By cutting out several distribution levels between factory and retailer, Supergo has brought to market a meat and potatoes frame that provides great service for those who elevate substance over glitz. No, it doesn't have a brand name or cool graphics, and the paint job ain't great, but I am convinced this would be a $500 frame in any other clothing. Good for Supergo. Spend your money on the componentry that will improve the mecahnical operation of the bike. XT level isn't too good for this frame.If you deal with Supergo, expect them to be slow in processing your order and getting it out. Dog them (be firm but not nasty). They are contrite when they don't meet a deadline, and will offer to eat the shipping charges or upgrade them at no extra cost.Like others, I peeled off the Supergo decals (use paint thinner to remove any glue traces). I had my own decals made up, so now I have a prototype Golani Kfir, which I hgihly recommend. I wonder if I can get a deal with that Taiwanese fab they use?For mail order, I've had two good experiences with Cambria Bikes, who are faster in processing orders than Supergo, but don't sell a private lable frame.Great frame, great price. It largely forgives Supergo's sins. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randy Hirota
a weekend warrior
from Long Island, NY
Date Reviewed: November 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I totaly agree with Mr. Glenn Tott opinion which posted on July 14.
Access Alu is just budjet oriented decent frame. My Alu rear brake boss was
attached slightly angled so the brake bosses are not parallel each other.
My LX V-brake is pulled slightly diagonally when I squeeze the lever.
Even so still Shimano V works but I don't think it's quality frame.
I already send it back to Supergo, but I don't hear anything from them as you can imagine.
Don't expect too much for Alu. You'll get what you paid.
I rate 2 star for frame but 1 star for notorious customer service.
So total 1 star. (If frame doesn't have defect, 5 star) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shane Davis
a weekend warrior
from Golden CO VIA NE
Date Reviewed: October 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I was very pleased at the quality of this frame set ,nice paint, welds,
and fit/finish .It was light as well.My last rig was a S-WORKS M-2 team
and this frame performed on a par with it,climbs,sprints and descending
singletrak!!I,ve ridden since 1990 and this bike compares with many top
bikes Ive ridden in that time.so if you were thinking of buying,go for it!
NICE FRAME,GREAT PRICE!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russ Fournier
a weekend warrior
from Penacook, NH
Date Reviewed: October 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased an Access Alu frameset minus the Manitou fork. My purchase
experience was rocky at first. I ordered a Ferrari Red frame in September
'98 and after two weeks of anxious waiting and no delivery, I called Supergo
to find out what had happened. They claimed to have Never Recieved my order.
To make matters worse, they were now completely out of Ferrari Red framesets.
So, being a fairly reasonable and understanding person, I opted for the black
frameset instead. It arrived in 8 days just as my salesperson, Erin, had said
it would. They waived the shipping fees as a way of atoning for the prior mishap.
The frameset was everything I expected it to be. The overall quality was
excellent. The paint was flawless as was promised. My biking colleagues were
impressed at how sturdy and rigid it was for the price I paid. I would
recommend this frameset to any one who wants good hardtail performance at a
budget price. The key advantage of this frameset is that it allows you the
dollars to put performance components on it without blowing your overall
budget. I am going to give it a full 5 chili's. Remember it is the product
that you are rating, not the store you bought it from. I read a few reviews
that reflected badly on the paint quality. They said that the paint chips easily. I have found the paint to be adaquately durable considering the
abuse I put it through. If your thinking of it, Buy this frame! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris k.
a cross-country rider
from saint louis, mo.
Date Reviewed: October 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just put my alu together. First thing I did was remove the supergo decals. I built it up with parts I had lying around, to include a Mag 21, XT canti's, and a combination of other odd parts. I'm a cat III road rider and needed a mountain bike for the off season and for some fun. This frame is perfect for someone who doesn't want to spend a lot of money on a bike or has enough old parts and needs a frame to hang them on. I can't see putting the best components on this frame, if you got the cash for XTR, then you probably have the cash for a better frame. I have a feeling the paint won't be too durable, but as long as the frame itself holds up, I'll be happy. Overall I'm pretty impressed, for the money it's a good deal. I'm more into function than name brands or trends, so this frame works for me. I give it four chili's. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin Hirst
a cross-country rider
from Sacramento
Date Reviewed: September 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just had my full-suspension bike stolen, so I needed a new bike without spending too much money. I got the Supergo frame for the value, then loaded it with all XT/XTR parts and a Noleen Crosslink fork. I love this bike more than my last one! I can jam up hills and accelerate faster than any of my friends. The frame is clean and solidly built. I recommend it to anyone who wants a high quality frame but doesn't want to pay hundreds extra for a name brand sticker. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andrew morley
a weekend warrior
from oswego, ny
Date Reviewed: September 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned an ALU for two years. I purchased it in order to make my bike lighter. It worked. For under $200 I dropped about 1lb. from my bike. It also started me on purchasing improvments for my bike. The only problem I really have had is the paint job. It is horrible, but what can one expect from a $200 frame? The handleing of this frame is decent. It is a good choice for someone who wants a economy upgrade. This leads to another problem; If someone askes what kind of bike you ride, you can't say a Yeti, a Fat, a Specialized, a Can-o-ale, etc. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a weekend warrior
from NJ
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently built an Access Max frame I had in the basement collecting dust for two years. I had built it originally, then bought a Cannondale frame and built that after riding the Max a couple times. Recently, while thinking about buying and building another C-dale, I saw the Shawn Palmer FSTi in Nashbar for $199. I decided to buy that and build my Access Max. The frame was clear-coated aluminum (no powder-coat) and looked dull. I wet sanded the whole bike to get the clear coat off, and polished to mirror gloss with Mother's aluminum wheel polish.
Then, I equipped it with full XT component group, with the exception of XTR brakes. Answer Hyperlite Handlebars, Grip Shift 8.0, Mavic 517 wheels, Profile bar ends, Syncros post, Control Tech stem, Avocet o2 Air 4.0 Kevlar seat complete the bike.I've only ridden it a couple times, but this bike handles WAY better than the C-dale I've been riding. Same frame size, but must be different geometry. This bike is also considerably lighter that the C-dale. Haven't weighed them yet, but I'd say by several lbs. The C-dale is LX equipped.
Since I haven't ridden it enough to comment on durabillity, I will give the frame 5 chilis based on the handling and the overall feel of the bike.I thoroughly enjoy riding it, and chances are the Cannondale will be the one collecting the dust now. My only question I ask myself now is...Why did I wait two years before building
this bike ??? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a weekend warrior
from NJ
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently built an Access Max frame I had in the basement collecting dust for two years. I had built it originally, then bought a Cannondale frame and built that after riding the Max a couple times. Recently, while thinking about buying and building another C-dale, I saw the Shawn Palmer FSTi in Nashbar for $199. I decided to buy that and build my Access Max. The frame was clear-coated aluminum (no powder-coat) and looked dull. I wet sanded the whole bike to get the clear coat off, and polished to mirror gloss with Mother's aluminum wheel polish.
Then, I equipped it with full XT component group, with the exception of XTR brakes. Answer Hyperlite Handlebars, Grip Shift 8.0, Mavic 517 wheels, Profile bar ends, Syncros post, Control Tech stem, Avocet o2 Air 4.0 Kevlar seat complete the bike.I've only ridden it a couple times, but this bike handles WAY better than the C-dale I've been riding. Same frame size, but must be different geometry. This bike is also considerably lighter that the C-dale. Haven't weighed them yet, but I'd say by several lbs. The C-dale is LX equipped.
Since I haven't ridden it enough to comment on durabillity, I will give the frame 5 chilis based on the handling and the overall feel of the bike.I thoroughly enjoy riding it, and chances are the Cannondale will be the one collecting the dust now. My only question I ask myself now is...Why did I wait two years before building
this bike ??? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Hamershock
a cross-country rider
from Ljubljana, Slovenia
Date Reviewed: August 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Update: I last wrote over a year ago about my AluMax frameset. I'm still hammering it daily, having put over 1000 miles on it this year so far - mostly off road.Same comments as before: light, STIFF, quick-handling. I'm still glad I got this frame, but will be adding a Diamondback V-8 to the stable soon.Thanks to Ollie at Supergo for his help when I need it.Mike | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
GFoyle
a weekend warrior
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: August 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I am writing in defense of Supergo. I ordered a Manitou fork from them and the person on the phone was curteous, helpful, patient and answered all my questions competently. In response to people saying that their shipping takes forever (Bob), I received my fork in 7 days (including a weekend), CA. to NJ. Can't complain about that. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bonechewer
a cross-country rider
from Bloomfield, MI
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased the Access hardtail frame to replace a rather small Specialized Rock Hopper. The improvement was amazing to say the least, not only did my 22 Access climb like an evil squirel but did everything else top notch as well. Geometry is right on for the bike, which really made the large frame seem more compact and maneuverable. All welds, tube construction, and paint were just as promised....not to mention everything I ordered showed up right on schedule. Seriously consider buying the package with the fork and other goodies and you won't be dissipointed. Heck, just buy the frame and you won't be dissipointed. Five Chilies plus. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Les Murphy
a weekend warrior
from Atlanta, GA
Date Reviewed: July 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Access Max-Link FS was a great buy. 4 inches of plush travel, with an excellent Noleen piggyback shock. I've riden it for 3 years with no problems, and it has survived some pretty serious crashes! Be sure to order several extra derailler hangers so you will always have a spare. The suspension action and quality of travel just blows my friends GT-LTS away, all for a lot less money (that can be spent on other trick hardware). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Glenn Tott
a racer
from Americus, Ga
Date Reviewed: July 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this frame to build a bike for my girlfriend, nothing special, but I am not believing Supergo's claims to superior work and craftsmanship! My problem is that the frame I recieved, even though welded solidly, had a dent in the down tube below the bottle bosses (that will most likely not affect the durability), and the paint had so many flaws in it, it looks as if it was painted in a dust storm! Now here is my problem. In my opinion it is a very good priced frame, and I may even excuse the blemishes because of the price, but Supergo's claims to superior paint and craftmanship are simply not true when compared to the frame that they sent me. I will keep the frame, and not send it back for warranty observation, (finding this out after being put on hold for 30 min.) because I don't want to gamble with their notoriously shoddy service. Summary: Don't expect too much, this is by no means a high-dollar, high quality frame, but by price alone, a superb value. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a cross-country rider
from Park City, Ut.
Date Reviewed: July 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Access Alu for 1 1/2 years. I've equipped with X/T groupo and Judy XC. Mavic 221's and Velociraptor/K's roll it along. I have really hammered on this bike and next to my wife it is my best friend! I have had this bike all over Washington and Oregon, now Utah is the spot of the year for it. It eats hills, single track, double track, waterbars, asphalt, rocks, roots and whatever else I come across on my rides. I have had no trouble at all! This is a great bike for a great price. The only thing I didn't like was the cheesy decals! They come off easy but the frame is compatible with most other stickers. I have lots on the frame now and people think it is a team bike....Ha...Ha! If you don't want to spend your whole savings on a Factory ride get an Access Alu. I can't tell the diference. I am 6'3 and 205lbs. It handles me just fine. Ride On! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a weekend warrior
from CA
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm thinking of buying their new DH-5 frame has anyone tried it yet? The only things holding me back from buying it is if it would be possible to get a 9lb. frame down below 30lb., and the suspension action/performance questions that can't be answered through a catalog. So if anyone has answeres for me I would owe you big time if you emailed me. Thanks againI give it 5 stars just for the potential value even though I've never riden one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Schoonover
a weekend warrior
from New Haven Mo 63068
Date Reviewed: July 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is one of the most comfortable, well designed bikes that I have riden. Many of my riding partners have alot more expencive bike that do not handly as well.
The over sized aluminum frame only weighs 3.2 pound. Supergo also offers a combo deal that comes with a manitou fork, orbit headset,a kalloy seatpost and clamp for under $400. my bike is finished off with XT deraliers, LX vbrakes,Lx hubs with array rims,sachs I 90 chain, Kalloy handlebars, Profile stem and barend and Stx cranks and ring. With the bike assembled it weighs 25 pounds. If you are looking for a great frame that you can build the way you want it I would recommend this frame. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Rattigan
a weekend warrior
from Bedford, NH
Date Reviewed: June 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Someone EMAIL me on how to buy a Access frame now!!! I am paticuarly interested in the $199. special 18 frame size. I currently have Giant ATX 780 cromo frame. Want to buy aluminium.
ok ok ok ok ok ok ok ok ok ok ok ok
llllllllaaaaaaaaatttttttteeeeeeeerrrrrrr,,,,,,,, Thanks,
David Rattigan
drat@mediaone.net or drattigan@parlex.com | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, WA
Date Reviewed: June 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm going to give this a five chili rating to make up for the idiot who ripped on the frame because its inexpensive...the boner hasnt even tried it, yet he thinks he can review it. And everyone...we're reviewing the access...not Supergo, so just concentrate on the bike, ok? Thank you. Ok two more words. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Max
a weekend warrior
from Hawthorne,CA
Date Reviewed: June 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The frame is not as light as a high end frame (18 weigh 4.2 lbs, 97' model), but for the price who cares. It's very stiff and can handle anything you throw at it. Save your dough for high price components, but keep the frame, you will not go wrong. My next bike will be FS , but for now my Access will do me just fine! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a weekend warrior
from Fort Worth
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my ALU for over one year and love it. I'm 6'1 and 210lbs and have had no problems. I first bought it as a beater hard tail to ride when my full suspension bike was in the shop. Ended up riding it as much as my $1800 full suspension bike. I've got everything from XT to Alivio (rear mech.) on the thing, whatever I had left over from previous bikes. It climbs like a cat and turns on a dime. The only negative is that the downtube is so fat it won't fit into my upright bike carrier. I had to put a fork mount on my rack so I could haul it around. Give it four chilli's just because I don't think anything is perfect.SuperGo service is another story alltogether. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark L. R.
a weekend warrior
from Fair Oaks, CA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ive been trouncing on my 19 $199 frame for 1 1/2 yrs. now and have found it to be a very sturdy frame. I'm 6' at 225 lbs so I do tend to stress things and have had no problem with the frame being week in any way. Decked out with a Manitou and full XT, my bike comes in at a respectable 26 pounds (which I think is good considering my body weight). I've found the support at SuperGo to be good on the products I've purchased. They were very helpful on my ordering the right size frame. The only down side I've had with it is the paint chips very, very easily, but what the hell, who rides for looks (although I do like the red!). I was really surprised the frame came with a headset, seatpost, stem and replaceable derailer hanger. It's lite, agile and affordable. I give it a very high four chilies. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stephen Cooper
a weekend warrior
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: April 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I like the ALU frame a lot! It climbs beautifully, handles very well, and is an excellent value for a very reasonable price. I would recommend it without hesitation. (If anyone has any trouble with ordering from Supergo, ask to speak to Jane in customer service: a nice person, treats customers with respect, effective at fixing problems.) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
devin
a cross-country rider
from maine
Date Reviewed: April 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
the access frame has great geometry and has a super lite alu construction. I love it! I also love ryan and the blue bucket trail. I ride in very technical single track and I feel it has great turning and handeling capibilities. The light weight for the price is unbelievable, even though there are no cnc parts and you gain a little weight it is all worth it to get an aluminum frame for $200.
four stars | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C
a cross-country rider
from Washington, DC
Date Reviewed: March 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have to admit, my mid-1997 Access Alu has been pretty damn rock solid. I've had my frame and Manitou EFC fork for about a year now with no apparent problems. Frame is light, stiff and climbs like a freakin squirrel. Replaced the butt ugly stickers on the downtube with a nice big clear Porn Star emblem. Looks like money......some say it's a C-Dale, others say look out!, but I just call it the trusty Porn Star. The paint is slowly being chipped away on the chainstay but it really doesn't bother me........mostly because the frame was $200 clams. I've upgraded all kinds of stuff on it, creating a small monster XT machine. 25 lbs standing still and 20 lbs on the downhills. I would reccomend this frame and fork to someone on a tight budget. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a weekend warrior
from Long Beach, Ca
Date Reviewed: March 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Access Alu for about a year, now. I'm 6'3, 220 lbs, and I love
the super stiff frame. I've had no problems with it. I live locally, so I
walked into Supergo to get it... no mail order hassles.I got it in mid-97 with an EFC shock for $400. What a deal!I wish they still made the Max link. I'd get one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake Petre
a cross-country rider
from LaSalle, IL
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Access Max MS frame I ordered is fine. They do not sell these anymore, however.
My complaint is with Superslow's service. I had many problems with them when I ordered my frame 12 months ago. But now I have ordered a fork from them. Stupid me. I cannot urge you enough to stay away from this company. It has been 10 weeks since my order. I truly believe they never sent out the first fork. But after 7 weeks, they decided to send me a second one. They said they would send it out the following day. They waited two weeks before sending it out!! It still is not here. I'm telling you--they do not care about there customers. I have plenty of more incidents for you but it would take up too much space. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
booty
a weekend warrior
from Louisiana
Date Reviewed: September 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just finished putting it together today. I need to tune both derailers in but can say that it is a great ride. I'm just getting in from my first ride. My hardtail is a Trek 830 with an Indy C and a Post Moderne suspension seat post. Yeah, I'm a fan of SuperGo.
The rear end of the Max is plush,as far as I can tell. It's my first FS. I've got a Judy XC on the front. It's a big improvement, too.
As far as the other parts hung on it, I've gutted my Trek and my brother's Giant to turn 3 bikes into 2 full ones. I've got an Alivio rear derailler, Acera X cranks and front derailler, Grip Shift SRT 300, Avid thing-a-ma-jig, and bar ends. The only thing new besides the fork and frame are the LX v-brakes. I had to buy that, believe me, I would have skimpt of I could. But, man, I'm glad I did because those babies work. Basically, I've got a great frame and fork teamed with the shittiest component group this side of Huffy. But hey, they work and I'm happy as hell. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Howie Redd
a cross-country rider
from Idaho
Date Reviewed: September 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Got a 20 Access Max over a year ago. Ordered it when I was home in Ca. Had Supergo mail it to me in Japan. Horrible service. Dude takes the frame off the rack and is walking to the bake of the store, frame bouncing off stuff. Yeah its and inexpensive frame but come on. Them just trying to mail it overseas was a pain. Got a Kore stem instead. When I finally get the bike, it has Grip Shift 600 instead of 800 and a cheap BB instead of the XT that was supposed to be on it. You can tell it is a low budget frame. 4 sets of braze-ons. One works. At least one grommet in each other pair rotates in the frame so it is unuseable and vibrates when going fast(annoying). The headset sucks so I replaced it with a King. Cheesy stickers, gone. Climbs great. I'm 6'2, 205lbs and once I put the XT BB in, not a whisper from the frame. It is very skittish downhill going fast. But it can weave and bob through some tight single track. Soon to be a beater bike. Good frame, it would be better if you didnt have to deal with SuperNO! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
booty
a weekend warrior
from Morgan City, LA
Date Reviewed: September 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I received my Max Link today. I must say that I was nervous about what I was buying from what I had read on this site. I can say that SuperGo has saved face. I got the last 17 inch frame at $347. It's Midnight Blue which was the last color that I wanted, but it was the best I could get. Man, am I happy because it's a beautiful color. The finish is exquisite. I checked the entire frame for defects and found no dents or blemishes. The threads are fine. I am very happy with the product that I have received and give it 5 chilies.
Now, on to my experience with ordering. I placed my order on Thursday Sept. 4. I was told that it would ship in 2-3 working days which means it would go out the following Tuesday at the latest. I call that Tuesday to make sure my shipment was coming and find out that the hardware for mounting the shock was not in-house and was expected to be coming in very soon. I was thinking back order limbo. I was not pleased at this point seeing how I should have been told this from the get go. Anyway, I send corespondance to Oliver, the manager, and Goldsmith, the owner, letting them know how dissapointed I was in SuperGo's performance up to this point. The next day Oliver calls me to let me know that everything has been taken care of and that my order would be going out the next day and that I would be receiving it in 5-8 working days. I received it on the fifth day. Exactly 2 weeks after ordering. Initially I would not have given SuperGo a good rating, but I appreciate that they went the extra mile for me. All the tech and sales people have been very helpful and nice.
I can understand the prolblems associated with a high volume business and am glad to see that they are truly trying to bring about change for the better. SuperGo 5 chilies.
It will be a few weeks before I can post on how the bike rides due to the fact that I buying peices at a time. I will follow up once I'm finished building it.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jackson Penrod
a cross-country rider
from CA
Date Reviewed: September 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Hey this is a great frame for those who can't or will not fork out those mega bucks for a big name brand. It blazes up hills. Its very stiff rear transfers all that energy straight to that wheel. I've got one with a Mag-21, Mavic 231 with DT spokes and Whites Inds. hubs. Scott thermoplastic bar and a Chris King Rasta head set (which are damn good head sets). Shim V-brakes, Grip shift 800 and Shim XTR front and rear derail. This frame accepts just about every componet you can throw on it. Try it, you won't be sorry. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gabe Chase
a racer
from Monte Rio, C.A.
Date Reviewed: August 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Access Alu for a little over eight months and I love it. The only problem is that I've grown to tall(6'2) for my 18 beauty. I am a fairly aggresive rider and have been trying to be aggresive enough to constitute a replacement in a larger size. Two words, no way!
About the frame, it's rock solid. This thing climbs and accelerates like nothing else. Desending and technical single track are a little choppy, but in a race all that matters is forward motion. That's what this frame provides. Ride it, Race it, Love it, Access Alu.
My only complaint, the cheesy decals, which I removed. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a racer
from Bethesda, MD
Date Reviewed: July 31, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This is an easy one.
Supergo is a really, really bad company. The only reason they still exist is because of their prices. The service is bad, the attitudes are bad and the follow through is baaaaad.
Now, the bike. It is awsome. In fact it is an exact copy of an Answer hardtail which goes for $1100.00 I've raced on it two seasons and absolutly love it. Make no mistake it is very stiff but handles and climbs like a billy goat.
Now the catch..... Supergo no longer sells this frames, figures.
By the way, a better mail order company with prices just as good.
bikeworld.com
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Summer West
a downhiller
from Port Angeles, Wa.
Date Reviewed: July 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I am more than just disappointed with this company, I am outraged. When I ordered my bike (Access MaxLink) through Supergo lmost a month ago the very first person I talked to said that the ad that I was looking at of $858.00 was wrong, that my computer had not been updated and that it was actually going to be less than that. I had to get off the phone with him but when I called back I ended up talking to someone else. When I told them what that salesperson had told me they said that I was wrong and that I had to pay $951.00 plus shipping and handling. I was a little upset but thier was nothing that I could do, they went into the warehouse and checked to see if the bike was there for me, he came back saying that it was and it had my name on it. I sent a money order and waited for my bike. Almost a week later Oliver Danner, the sales dept. called and said that they had not recieved my money yet. I started to get a little worried thinking that my money was lost so I called eveyday to ask him to check his desk to make sure it wasnt there. He assured me that if it was there he would have it since all the money goes to him. A few days later when I called to let him know that I was canceling the money order he said that it had been there for about a week he had just (didn't think about it). Oliver told me that he would send the bike in about a week because it takes that long to ckeck everything over and get it ready to send. Three weekes later he calls me to let me know that he's not sure when it can be sent to me because the order from Mexico hasnt come in yet. So far I've missed two bike races , one of which was a National. AS all of this has become more and more of a head ache I got back onto the computer to look them up again and the computer said that the bike I just paid $951.00 for is only $776.00 so the very first guy I had talked to was right. I was scammed out of $175.00. I will never deal with this company ever again and wouldnt wish it on anyone. I'm just a girl bike rider that is trying to keep up with the guys. I love the sport as well as the speed and this looked like a good bike for the price. If I ever thought that it would have been this much trouble to buy a bike through Supergo I would have taken my business else where so that I would have the bike I bought at least sooner that a months wait of when I paid for it. I'd just like to save you the trouble. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ray Hughes
a weekend warrior
from Huntington Beach, CA
Date Reviewed: July 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After reading the reviews of this frame on-line and talking to some riders, I decided to build my Access ALU-framed bike. I am 6'2 and 195lb., and was used to a steel-framed Diamondback. The bike works great: climbs well, handles quickly but not twitchy at speed, and looks good too. A further recommendation would be to install a 2.10 rear tire for added traction and smoothness. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Dutton
a cross-country rider
from La Verne, CA
Date Reviewed: July 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the access max in october of 1994. Just found out yesterday that my head tube is cracked (cannot be repaired) after spending $450 in upgrades (wheels, etc). I'm very disappointed. Unfortunately, the warranty is only two years. Up until now, I loved the frame -- it handled very well and was light weight. Hope you read this Mr. Goldsmith -- I'm a little leary about buying the alu even with the great price tag. I feel I should get a break on a replacement frame. Oh well, warranties do expire. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Hamershock
a cross-country rider
from Ljubljana, Slovenia
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After breaking an Access FS (Amp B-3 copy) Supergo replaced the frame at my request with an Access Max. I have riden the frame hard now for a year and am very happy with the performance and durability. I race sport class cross country on occasion (just for fun!) and it is an excellent bike for this: stiff, light, and great handling. I would hesitate to recommend it to a more casual, pleasure rider as it does have a VERY stiff ride. That's what you get with big tube aluminum! Mine is equiped with a King HS, TNT HDS bottom bracket, XT stuff, and a MAG 21 and weighs about 23 or so lbs. Overall, I'm pleased! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake Petre
a cross-country rider
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: June 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After chasing down the Max for a couple of months(they kept running out and had no idea about availability) I finally got it ordered. They shipped it out about 2 weeks later! Fortunately, the frame was much better than the service. One problem--the BB threads got mashed. I worked around that though. My 18in max weighed in at 4lb 1oz--not bad. Since it is aluminum it is incredibly stiff. It climbs unbelievably! All energy goes into driving the bike forward. With it's sloping top tube it looks awesome, too. Don't be sold on advertising. Easton, Cannondale, Specialized, etc spend a lot of money on advertising and have to make it back somehow. The extra bucks you spend on those frames is for their advertising! Tinker could win on an Access! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zutty
a racer
from Deer Falls
Date Reviewed: May 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The heart and soul of a bike is the FRAME and not the parts hung on it! So why in heaven's name would someone buy a cheap throw-away frame like this and hang Chris King, Cooks, Syncros, XT etc. on it? Guys, what are you thinking?!? If you've got all that bread for the high end parts, why didn't you buy a frame to match? DUHH!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: May 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got a new Access Alu frame. My bottom bracket threads were mashed and really tight, but fortunately my LBS was able to correct it. Slapped all the sweet parts from my CroMo bike onto it, and voila, a kick-butt aluminum hardtail for about $200 (WITH the seatpost, QR, headset and stem)! Climbs great, handles well, looks fab. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
c
a cross-country rider
from VA
Date Reviewed: May 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
It's true, paid $399 for the ALU frame, EFC fork, V-brakes, seatpost, stem and headset. Sadly, I had a problem right from the get go with the bottom bracket threads being mashed. Looking at the frame under the light I could see that the first two threads on the drive side of the bottom bracket were damaged. Just slightly mashed over, but enough to screw things up. Attempted to thread in my new 68mm XT bottom bracket but it just wouldn't catch. Shit! Made the decision that it wasn't worth sending the frame back to Supergo where they would tap it and send it back to me, so I drove down to my local bike shop, Metropolis Bikes (incredible service, good bikes). One of the guys there, looked at it right away, something Performance Bikes, Bikes USA, and Bike Exchange would not do.....all telling me that it would take about a week to get to my bike. Shits. Metropolis faced the frame in about 3 minutes and installed the bottom bracket in the next two, making it a 5 minute job....vs. the 30 minute job Performance and Bikes USA told me it would take. Walked out of Metropolis $12 poorer and a week richer.Bike is together now, frame looks incredible, very light and all kinds of other stuff I don't have time to put in this review. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Skundy
a racer
from
Date Reviewed: May 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a Max Link(FS), and love it. But like it, all of them come with that XXXXing YST headset. It sucks so much. At first I thought it was cool, but then I had to tighten it every day, and then every hour, and then I couldn't tighten it at all. When I ordered the bike I asked to replace it with a KING, but they said they wouldn't, that I'd have to buy it seperately and replace it myself. The frames are the bomb, but the headset sucks, wait, no, it SWALLOWS!!! If you buy a bike demand a different headset. If they won't, throw It away and get a replacement. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fred Brender
a weekend warrior
from Flushing MI
Date Reviewed: April 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I looked long and hard for a new aluminum frame to replace my CroMo frame. I was very dissapointed with the available frames (mostly because of price). When I saw the Access ALU advertised for $167 I thought it was a typo. It wasn't. The next lowest price I could find on an aluminum frame was more than $300 without the seat post, stem, and headset that Supergo throws in. Not only was it inexpensive, this thing rides and handles great and the uphill performance is out of this world! Hopefully it will be durable, but I won't know for a while. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
crestone
a cross-country rider
from minnesota
Date Reviewed: March 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
So far, I have had nothing but good to say about this frame. I have it tricked out with: mach 5sx, cris king headset, cook bros cranks, mavic rims, nuke proof hubs, wb velo rubber, XT throughout, 747's, syncros post, grip shift. I would like to know how to protect this (1996) unpolished frame from corrosion? any suggestions? It is my first alu. frame, and as far as keeping aluminum up in terms of maintenance, I seek advice. reply. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mal Paine
a cross-country rider
from MA
Date Reviewed: December 9, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
In June 1996, I purchased an Access Max Frame for SuperGo of California for the paltry sum of 389 dollars. Weighing in on my scales at 3 lbs, 10 oz., it is a GREAT price to weight ratio. After experiencing this frame, my best riding bud, went out and bought the same one. This thing carves turns like you wouldn't believe. At high speeds, this is a dream bike. The CNC chainstay arch and dropouts give this triple-butted 7000 series aluminum frame a sweet look. If you dont want to pay for a brand name, get this frame. It stands up to anything you dish out, and it sure doesnt behave like it costs. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
E Baines
a cross-country rider
from CT
Date Reviewed: October 2, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased the Max for $207 on sale and I love it. It rides clean,
carves well, and I have had no problems with durablity, and I ride VERY
hard. The salespeople were courteous, and the frame was sent out the same day I ordered it. I recommend it as a good frame, and an exceptional value.
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Submitted by
Kevin Elliot
a cross-country rider
from Dallas, Texas, U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had a Voo Doo and I loved it. A friend of mine told me that the Access bikeswere a very good deal and my Voo Doo was getting old. When I recieved that Acces with full XT and Grip Shift 800's. The Acces had many fractures after I did the Hermosa creek trail in Durango Colorado. If there is anyone who is thinking about buying an Acces. I suggeswt that you don't.
| | Overall Rating: |
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