SRAM XO, 2009 Deemax, Hayes Stroker Ace, XTR 960 crank with 38, 22 dual ring set up with Blackspire Ring god X bashguard and Stinger chain tensioner, Easton CNT bars, Kindshock i900 seatpost, SDG Ti seatpost, Chris King headset, rockshox Totem Coils, Maxxis 2.5 single ply running tubeless with Stans No Tube sealant.
Bottom Line:
With the above 36 pound build this 8.5inch travel frame hoovers up the terrain whether you are going down or up. Okay it isn't as quick as my Nomad uphill but downhill it is more stable and takes the bigger hits much better.
Bottom line - Yes, I know this isn't 'The latest and greatest' frame and I know the bearing life is limited (although I haven't had any problems yet) this is the best Freeride frame I have had ridden so far. If the Driver 8 is better than this then it will be the next frame on my shopping list for sure!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kenny Gavin
a Downhiller
from Las Vegas, NV USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2009
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$4700.00
Purchased At:
Escape Adventures
Strengths:
Bike is AWESOME... Great feel in corners.. for being 42pds it pedals uphill pretty good...fox 40 forks are great.. Santa Cruz quality is TOP SHELF
Weaknesses:
Have not been shown one
Similar Products Used:
GT i-drive, Kona Stinky Dee-Lux, Kona Stinky Nine, Santa cruz Heckler, Santa Cruz VP FREE>>>>>>>>
Bottom Line:
Best Bike I have ever ridden .. I cant wait to try out 2009 Santa Cruz BULLIT
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jayjay05385
a Racer
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: February 6, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
plush, very strong and stable. also light weight!
really worth to buy if ya a freeride or downhiller~
Weaknesses:
head angle is too steep. if that has a tunable position, just like orange 224 will be perfect.
Similar Products Used:
Gemini, GT DHi.
Bike Setup:
Boxxer team, with e-13 stem 45mm tune. cane creek S-8 headset, en321 for front and EX 721 for rear. both are using nuke proof hubs. 8.5" Fox DHX 5.0 to provide a less steep head angle. thomson elite seatpost, funn saddle, MRP sys.3, e-13 chain ring, RF altas AM crankset. saint rear der. XT chain, Hope M4 Break w/ floating disc, F/8" R/7".
Bottom Line:
before i changed the 8.5" rear shock. this bike was both good at up and downhill. but the cornering sucks. but now, i put a 8.5" shock on~ the whole world had been changed. more stable, perfect in cornering, and also lighter! a lot! now my bike's still using inner tube tires and steel spring. the weight is 36lb. it's not a really light weight frame. but this can reduce the frame weight from 9.3lb to 8.7lb. and my expected final weight is 33.5-34.5lb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
danno
a Weekend Warrior
from exeter, ca. USA Date Reviewed: December 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Nelson
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
VPP design and all that travel!
Weaknesses:
no IS chainguide mounts
Similar Products Used:
03 norco DH and Aline, Specialized Demo 8 and 9.
Bike Setup:
03 Super T, Fox DHX 5.0, SUN MTX green camo rims, lx hollowtech II cranks, hayes HFX 8" brakes, Intense 2.7 sticky tires, thomson post.
Bottom Line:
This bike is phenomenal. 8" of travel is incredible forgiving when taking gnarly lines. It pedals like a dream, ya, it's heavy and 38lbs but it's not wasting your energy. Great build quality (not as good as Intense, forged vs, CNC) big bearings hold up well. Geometry is fast and flickable. The best freeride frame period. (too bad they don't make it anymore)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kech88
a Downhiller
from toronto, ontario, cananda Date Reviewed: July 25, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
cycle solutions
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
non yet
Similar Products Used:
banshee scream, brodie demon
Bike Setup:
codes, 66 rc3, dhx fox 5
Bottom Line:
Great bike, amazing handling, reliable, best bike I have ever purchased.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan
a Downhiller
from longviewjunkie@hotmail.com Date Reviewed: July 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
dirt merchant
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
used
Strengths:
built solid, looks awesome, rides great
Weaknesses:
i can't marry it
Similar Products Used:
stinky, coiler, heckler
Bike Setup:
some cool stuff
Bottom Line:
after coming off of a couple of konas i couldn't believe the difference between suspension designs. i never thought i would be able to tell, but i was wrong. the vp-free is way smoother and soaks up way more than my konas ever did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ghettocruiser
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Date Reviewed: June 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
The Highway 48 Extension (RIP)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
silent sports
Strengths:
Pretty much does everything as advertised.
Weaknesses:
High BB....with the seat up for XC I feel like I need a stepladder to get on the thing.
Arguably way more bike than I can handle.
Similar Products Used:
Turn-of-the-century Rocky Mountain.
Bike Setup:
7" fork and DHX5
Bottom Line:
Happy customer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
VERT
a
from Wellington, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 22, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Pedals amazingly well, climbs like a XC bike, strong, very plush suspension feels bottomless.
Weaknesses:
Pivot bearings short life
Similar Products Used:
SnataCruz Heckler, Intense Socom, Giant AC, Kona coiler etc
Bike Setup:
2.5" x 7.5" Fox DHX, Rockshox Domains 318's 180mm, Saint, Hope, Holzfella, Thomson etc
Bottom Line:
I stuck a shorter shock in mine a 2.5" x 7.5" Fox DHX, this has lowered my Bottom bracket together with 180mm forks. With the smaller shock I get just under 8" of travel. This bike is very plush and takes the hits and rails the downhills like nothing I have ever ridden. And then this bike climbs steep stuff like I can't imagine. Just spent the weekend on this bike riding 7 1/2 hours worth of XC tracks on one day then the next shuttling jump tracks and the Nats DH track. This bike is truely amazing. It does everything, best bike I have ridden ever and I have ridden and owned a lot of bikes. Its just a shame the bearing wearing quickly let it down and I think mine might be on their way out :(
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DH racer
a Downhiller
from Seattle Date Reviewed: October 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
upper A-line, SideTrack
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
kirkland cycles
Strengths:
Versatility
Weaknesses:
higher than normal maintenance
Similar Products Used:
Stab, GranMal, Bighit
Bike Setup:
Pushed DHX Travis
Bottom Line:
This bike can do it all. It's my everyday trail bike as well as my Whistler DH bike. Don't buy into the BS about steep head angles and high bottom brackets. Marc Beumont and Neil Donaghue dominated UK racing on VP-Frees. VP-Frees are very capable race bikes as well as great pedaling trial bikes. I think the negative reviews are a result of Sam Hill killing it on a bike with a crazy low bottom bracket. So now all the slow kooks think they need a 13" BB to go fast. You're still gonna be slow on your Sunday! Nothing makes me smile more then flying by kooks on there Sundays with my slow top heavy trail bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Downhiller
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: October 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Craigslist
Strengths:
Excellent quality, Pedals great for the weight, looks amazing, Santa Cruz customer service, stable at high speeds and clears everything, endless travel, plush
Weaknesses:
Expensive, kinda heavy, attracts thieves, no ISCG mounts
This bike is amazing for the money. Once set up right, it pedals very well, and takes the DH with ease.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen
a
from Calgary Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: October 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Canada Olympic Park Downhill Course
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Very well made frame, super beefy and has very good for peadle bob.
Weaknesses:
No chain guid holes in frame
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Vp-Free, 5th element, Manitou Sherlin slider plus
Bottom Line:
A ver good bike. It can take huge gucks gaps and is very good for Dh. Its awsome go buy it. If you dont like it you are not normal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Cutts
a Weekend Warrior
from London Date Reviewed: July 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Morzine - nay trail in the area
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
All over the place
Strengths:
Just about everything.....
Weaknesses:
.....excpet the lower pivot bearing.
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, Demos, Stinkys, Bighits, V10, Rm7 and a few others
Bike Setup:
Sram X0, 888, single chainring Hi Roller 2.5s
Bottom Line:
I have ridden this bike pretty hard for the last few years and love it. Keep thinking I should get 2 bikes (V10 and a Blur LT) that are more purpose built to replace it but dont have the space required to store them. I have no doubt a dedicated FR, DH or trail bike would do "its" job better but I have never ridden a bike (and have owned over 20) that seems to handle whatever I can do - I'm the limiting factor not the bike. BTW - I'm 6'6" and ride a large - fits me perfect.
It rides uphill OK, handles big drops and fast corners. I dont understand the thing about the harsh low speed ride - mine is super plush from zero to way too fast and never feels soggy or uncontrolled - maybe you guys have incorrectly setup or faulty shocks?
OK - so it does have a major bad point - the pivots wear out way too fast - and keeping them clean doesnt seem to help. It seems that if they get wet and dirty during a ride then thats it - the damage has been done and its just a matter of time before they need replacing. I do find it is only the bottom 4 bearings that really suffer - my top 4 are the originals - so you do get 2 rebuilds out of a set. I have heard of someone doing better bearings but havent tried them yet. Took a flamming turd off just for the bearings!
In my thinking it probably isnt the "one" bike for everyone (doubt that even exists....) but it is the "one" bike for me. If you can afford and have the space for more bikes then of course that is the better way to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alain c
a Weekend Warrior
from montreal, Qc, Canada Date Reviewed: July 13, 2007
I can't belive people say this bike sucks. It's a great bike and it goes fast. I ride faster than before and it sucks everythig up. The vpp work marvel on the trail. Good for drop, jumps, freeride, and DH course. This bike likes to fly. Yes the pivots tends to collect dirt but if you clean your bike at the end of the days there should be no problem. I just love my vp free and it's only 38lbs!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Liang
a Downhiller
from North Vancouver, B.C , Canada Date Reviewed: April 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Air Supply
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
Steed Cycles
Strengths:
amazing all round! it pedals great, you can DH race on it well, it hits drops and step ups/jumps great, light and it comes with amazing components stock (SPX kit)!
Weaknesses:
lots of dirt gets in the bb area (behind the wheel) but can be fixed with a fender
Similar Products Used:
norco fuse, switch S3, cove peeler
Bike Setup:
SPX stock kit (fox 40 rc2s, truvative OCT cranks, DT Swiss 6.1 rims, Avid Code brankes, Dhx 5 rear shock, ethirteen dual ring chain guide, SRAM X 9 derailer,...) anodized orange color :P
Bottom Line:
It is just an amazing bike! I have already DH raced on it and it runs amazing and sucks everything up, but is stable in the air and off drops and it pedals insanely well! i just didnt like how dirt got in the bb area behind the wheel but that was quickly fixed with a homemade fender which was easy to make. I mean you could make this bike almost have as much plushness as a V-10 but make it good for FR as well! Plus its an awsome value for the components you get! If you live in north van I know Steed Cycles has some amazing prices on their bikes! www.steedcycles.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from Kamloops Date Reviewed: April 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
steam shovel
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Cafe
Strengths:
Awesome, light, cafe gave me great deal(3600 canadian w/ 06 frame and 07 components), No pedal bob so u go a lot faster on the falts, can be ridden up and down
Weaknesses:
Squeaks a little but thats just a matter of cleaning it more and NOT BEING LAZY AND DOING SOME WORK doen't eat the samll bumps
Similar Products Used:
none this good
Bike Setup:
orange with boxxer teams, sram 9 and avid 5 and dhx 5.0
Bottom Line:
I dont know why people are complaing about having to spend a little money to put some new bearings in once in a while, all fullys need it. It bike is very good, corners great and very moveable while goinfast.
I LOVE THE BIKE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jas Hill
a
from Chch, NZ Date Reviewed: April 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Craigieburn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Hub Cycles
Strengths:
The mere fact that this has 8.5 inches of rear travel and pedals up hill as well as a Blur! Fail safe handling. It makes you want to try new lines and give hucks a nudge.
Weaknesses:
Front mech set up takes a bit of time but otherwise nothing.
Similar Products Used:
Demo 9
Bike Setup:
Med Free frame, RS Totem Solo Air, Formula brakes, Mavi 823 rims, Maxxis Highroller 2.35 rear, Minnon 2.5 front. 37lbs
Bottom Line:
This thing is awesome. It rides up hill just great and smokes along on single track, but once gravity is on your side get ready to hold on. It will just swallow any issues on the trail including small dogs ans xc bikes! I haven't had a chance to ride a bike park on it yet but all indications are that it will be perfect. This is a bike that can work the full spectrum of mtb'ing. Enduro XC adventure ride one day, shuttle runs the next...all with a smile on your face.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
calrider805
a Downhiller
from San Luis Obispo Date Reviewed: March 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Whistler, Santa Cruz, Trail 401...
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
CBO
Strengths:
Plush 8.5", pedalable, stiff, 150 mm x 12 mm rear end, gusseting near headtube, reputable, relatively low weight, just a FUN bike for FR and DH
Weaknesses:
A bit higher center of gravity than I would like ideally, high BB, bent seat tube, perhaps cost, no 1.5 headtube like the 07
Similar Products Used:
GT Ruckus 2.0 and a hardtail, sorry not much "similar"
Bike Setup:
VP-Free (obviously), Fox 40, Diabolous, Hope, Hadley, SRAM...
Bottom Line:
I am VERY happy with this bike. I admit I haven't ridden any other downhill bikes so I can't compare there. I had a GT Ruckus 2.0 with 6" of travel before this, so obviously it was a huge step up in many regards. I also only been riding for 2.5 yrs. However. I've progressed quickly and taken this thing down some gnarly tech trails and drops up to 10' and I know this bike will handle everything I will be able to throw at it without a problem as I continue to progress. It flies through the rough stuff, pops off of jumps well, and feels relatively flickable through turns and in the air though the Fox 40 detracts from this a bit... I'm thinking of buying a 66RC or Totem or something to be able to swap out for longer rides, freeride, etc. All in all this is a SICK bike and I would totally buy it again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Manny Lozano
a Downhiller
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: March 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
mt wilson
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle station
Strengths:
I love the solid feel and bottumless travel.I always try to find the narlier route and the bigger drops and so far,so good....or more like yeehhaaa!! Either way, its light enought to manage up the mountain if your not able to always start from the top.It feels like a pig going up, but man it comes to life going down. And thats why I bought it.I was also suprised that it can hang on single tracks. Switch backs no prob!Its all about sick and fast 6' plus drops and rock gardens that leave you grinnin.
Weaknesses:
does get squeeky in the pivots but who cares, when your jammin and your music is cranken, pitty things like that dont matter!!!!
Similar Products Used:
mountain cycle dh, daimondback dh, cannondale dh,who cares as long as you ride!
the bottum line is most riders arent really capible enought to really find out what their down hill rig can really do, but for those few who can, only they will know how truly great this bike is for sick free riding and balls out down hilling. Every one else, its their own personal expensive statis symble toy that ends up as a cloths rack.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Horn
a Weekend Warrior
from Ft. Collins, Co. Date Reviewed: February 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
downhill Vail/Keystone
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Full Cycle
Strengths:
Frame is solid and lightwieght, the geometry is near perfect, and the suspension is great.
The frame is solid, geometry is near perfect and, the suspension is great. Bike is light enough to pedal uphill.
Weaknesses:
None so far but, bottom pivot collects debri. I heard of pivots wearing out quickly on bikes without iscg chainguide mount. I have the iscg mount on my bike and have had no problems. (I don't really see how the iscg mount would effect the pivot points though.) All pivot points on all bikes eventually wear out.
Similar Products Used:
03 Rocky Mountain Rm7 (Wade Simmons)
Bike Setup:
(spx free ride kit) Fox 40rc, Fox dhx5.0, Race face diabolis bars, evolve dh cranks/neck/bottom bracket, Avid juicy 7's, DT Swiss hubs and rims.
Bottom Line:
This bike is totally solid. The suspension sucks up the big bumps very well, springs off jumps nicely and, handles big drops (20'+) with ease. The bike is also,light enough to pedal uphill if you use a 34-36 tooth chainring. If you want a bike that can do it all this is the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Barclay
a Downhiller
from Kamloops Date Reviewed: February 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Steam Shovel
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Cafe
Strengths:
Great bike. The suspension system works great. NO pedal bob. I don't know what everyones talking about with the squeeking and stuff but i got none
Weaknesses:
doesn't eat up the small bumbs but no biggie
Similar Products Used:
notin, the only other full i've ever used is my brodie hoodlum
Bike Setup:
06 frame dhx coil, with the fr kit and a boxxer team
Bottom Line:
GOOD BIKE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Donald
a Weekend Warrior
from Nashville, TN USA Date Reviewed: February 9, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3900.00
Purchased At:
MOAB Murfreesboro Outdoor and Bike
Strengths:
Wow! It hucks, climbs, and looks AWESOME! Santa Cruz has nailed this one!
Weaknesses:
Chain slapps chainstay tube due to Santa Cruz not having the advertised chain guide ready for sale! Its coming tho, I hope! Isnt it...get back to me Santa Cruz!
If I won the lottery tomorrow Id buy this bike again!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
myles
a Downhiller
from Mt Hood Oregon Date Reviewed: February 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
dirt merchant
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
It does have a lot of travel and ummmm. Easily resold. Makes creaking sounds when pedaling to let others know you are close by. Look cool bro.
Weaknesses:
Glad to see I am not the only person who has pivot problems. It seems like a joke to pay so much for a frame and get a piece of crap that creaks and needs $100-125 pivot kits to freshen it up yearly (or every other month). (VPP) Very Problematic Pivot system needs some work. Suspension doesn't work well when you are on the brakes. Doesn't feel light and tossable.
Similar Products Used:
kona, intense, specialized, dh bikes
Bike Setup:
888 rc and more
Bottom Line:
If you really ride your bike, not curb drops and xc trails(you posers know who you are), it will be great until you swap bikes with a buddy who has a non vpp bike. I would not buy again. This bike was a disapointment. I would look at other bikes if you free ride and occasionally dh race. Pivots did not hold up well to a season of Post canyon and Whistler. Funny my buds spec. demo 8/big hit bikes work great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil Schlosser
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: December 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Moras trail, Costa Rica
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
The Peak, Olympia WA.
Strengths:
This frame handles great, Some what light and not over built. I ride downhill, sinlge track, stunts you name it i do it on this bike. Handles great at high speeds. Brakes well. Totally rips.
Weaknesses:
I have the earlier frame with no iscg bracket. But i can't complain because this years do. I have had some serious issues with the lower pivot since it was new. First the lower pivet was making serious creak noise. So i broke it down greased it and reassembled. After a while it started again. I contacted SC and they told me to shorten the lower axle. So i did that and the creak went away and then i couldn't keep the pivot tight even after loctite. So now i have taken it down again and the lower pivot link has a lot of play around the axle. So i am going to press in new bearings and replace the pivot and axle. Hopefully that should fix the problem. I think it should be a easy fix so no hard feelings on that one. Even though it really sucks when you are in a foreign country and your rear end keeps coming loose. And the guy with the Kona doesn't have any issues what so ever. But whatever.
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, Heckler, Nomad.
Bike Setup:
Magura brakes, Fox 36 Van RC2, 317s, Hadely hubs, Fox DHX 5.0, Shimano crank, Saint rear de.
Bottom Line:
This bike would be great if it wasn't for the lower pivot problems and they should have had the ISCG bracket on it from day one. The replaceable drop out is forged from some alloy crap that is seriouly fragle. If you pay for a frame that is that much money and is suposed to be high end then you should probably see some cnc machined parts on it. Thats just my thoughts. Intense does. But all in all it has been a real pleaser to shread on this magnificent handling bike. I have riden it from Whistler to Costa Rica and it has handled everything i have thrown at it. Who should buy it. The person that wants a light DH frame and a good Freeride frame that can pedal and handles great. Who shouldn't buy it. A person that thinks anything less then 6ft is a drop.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Gilbert, Arizona Date Reviewed: November 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mormon/National
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Stiff plush ride. Climbs fairly well.
Weaknesses:
Wheelbase little too long. Cheap decal stickers. Sizing.
Great bike that climbs fairly well, eats up rock gardens and has a very plush ride. I am 6'1" 210lbs and went with the medium frame, the large felt way to big. Even with the medium frame the bike fells bit long and make tight cornering difficult, but make fast high speed runs nice and stable. Overall I really like this bike, but if I had to spend close to $2000 again on a frame I would probably have went with the Intense Uzzi VPX because of its shorter wheelbase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
calen
a Downhiller
from fairfax, ca Date Reviewed: November 16, 2006
pivots wear out - yes they do! lack of ISCG mounts
Similar Products Used:
transition dirtbag
Bike Setup:
marz shiver, nevegal dh tires/tubes, 40t front ring for DH - 45lbs; marz z-150, nevegal kevvies/xc tubes, 32t front ring for fr/trails - 39lbs. fox dhx 5 coil.
Bottom Line:
i have just one MTB and this is it. it pedals like a dream and is very light for its travel (a svelte 9.5 lbs). i'm not one to just cruise down a trail - i sprint wherever i can to pick up speed and love to crank out of corners, and i can tell you that this bike goes! i'd say the single feature that sets this bike apart is its versatility - i built it into a 45lb beast for 2 months of Whistler and it absolutely ruled the bike park everywhere from ultra fast A-line to ultra tech clown shoes, to plain rambunctious trails like fatcrobat. back home where things aren't quite as gnarly and chairlifts don't run i've got it down to 39 lbs and I prefer it to my old hardtail for climbing. i even rocked the 40t ring for a couple months of climbing and did not regret it. i would recommend this bike to any fit rider who would break a nomad but wants a do-it-all bike. if you want a dh racer one week and a trail bike the next, well there you go. the only major issue i have with santa cruz bikes is their apallingly bad pivots. mine have major play after 6 months. my friend is on his third set in 2 years. my LBS usually has a couple of SCs in for bearing overhaul. c'mon SC, hardware store cartridge bearings are more durable than your fancy pants bearings. i lowered the value rating because it looks like i will be dropping $100 bucks a year on new bearings. an otherwise OUTSTANDING bike should not have such an achilles heel, but it does.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel Slater
a Downhiller
from El Granada CA Date Reviewed: September 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Bought the frame used, then built it up
Strengths:
Amount of travel is perfect for free riding and works great for me for down hilling. Awsome DH/FR frame.
Weaknesses:
It is a DH/FR bike so it's heavy.
Similar Products Used:
Stinky dee-lux, bullit, V10.
Bike Setup:
2005 VP-Free w/ 888R, azonic outlaw wheels, holzafeller bars, stem, and cranks. Hayes Mag HDs, e13, fox dhx 5.0
Bottom Line:
It is a beefy bike that is great for down hilling and free riding. Get it if you do either of them, and if you think you're an extreme XC guy, then get a nomad because I hate when I see XC guys/girls on 8 inch travel bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graham
a Downhiller
from Scotland, UK Date Reviewed: September 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2095.00
Purchased At:
Privately
Strengths:
Really stable through any terrain. Handles so smoothly in the air, it is a really balanced bike. Pedalling efficiency means it is like a trail bike, maybe an inch of pedal bob maximum. Shock is one of the best available, nice tunability, feels nice through all the travel. Looks stunning, paintjob is superb and really durable, cable routing is well planned, geometry is perfect! Amazing Santa Cruz build and finish quality.
Weaknesses:
The only annoying thing I can think of are the cable lugs just behind the headtube. These can sometimes catch on your shorts but this is a tiny problem.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler, Giant Glory DH, 24seven Darkangel DH, Kona Stinky, Norco Six
Bike Setup:
'06 trans. blue VP-Free Med. with Marzocchi 888R, Hayes, ?E13, Thomson, Truvativ, Raceface, Chris King, SRAM X9.0, Lizard Skins, Hope, Maxxis.
Bottom Line:
I was looking for a bike that would work well through really hard DH and also be agile, pedal-efficient and jumpable. This frame definately lives up to the job. If you are looking for the same as me, then go for one - it is brilliant. The bike does everything you want it to - it will land flat from 10ft+ with ease, it will blast through rocks with no spiking and complete stability, and it will launch you off a jump so smoothly you'll never have to go round a jump again. Thanks to the guys at SC, and their design/build quality, the VP-free will handle everything you throw at it, run after run, ride after ride and it will always be there to take you back home.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kym Howell
a Downhiller
from Phoenix, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: August 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
I love every thing from the looks to the way it eats up the rough stuff. I had been riding a bullit and the difference in the way this bike lands a jump is amazing.
Weaknesses:
Cable routing near the seatpost/top tube is a pain. I ended up wrapping mine to the tube with inner tube to keep from snagging it with my shin guards and haven't been bothered since.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, Santa Cruz v-10, Orange Patriot, Turner Highline.
Bike Setup:
Fox 40RC2, Hope M4's with braided lines and floating rotors. Manitou swinger 6-way, Halo Tornado wheels w/Hadley hubs. Diabolus bars,stem,seatpost. FSA extreme cranks.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. It tears through, over and around way more than I can handle and is giving me the confidence to do things I haven't tried before. I climb as much as I want with it and then bomb down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Antonio
a Weekend Warrior
from Switzerland Date Reviewed: August 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Chatel NR.5
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
Freemountain
Strengths:
This bike is great if you want to huck, downhill, free ride, or jump. It is super stable in the air and gets alot of hight off jumps. This bike is in pole position on any bikepark-Freeridepark in the World!!
I shopped around for a new freeride/DH bike for a long time before finally settling on the VP Free. Am I ever happy with my decision!!! The sickest bike ever!! I have now 1Mt, but I absolutley love it. This is a truly wonderful frame, i bought it because of the thought that i could use it even on off season racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trevor Hebbel
a Downhiller
from Palo Alto, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mile
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3400.00
Purchased At:
Santa Cruz
Strengths:
This bike is amazing. I rode it for a few days and was comfortable on it. It turns great and jumps even better. I haven't had a single problem with the frame. It is good it tight downhill courses with jumps. It has a super strong frame with 8.5 inches of travel.
Weaknesses:
5th element rear shock sucks. The rebound is too slow at it's fastest setting. It has bad small bump absorbtion and feels like crap. On other bikes it works fine but on a VP it sucks. On the bright side, 5th element went out of buisness. Go with a DHX.
Similar Products Used:
Bullit
Bike Setup:
Boxxer world cup, juicys, sram, truvative, DT swiss
Bottom Line:
This bike is great if you want to huck, downhill, free ride, or jump. It is super stable in the air and gets alot of hight off jumps. It turns great and with the right setup, you could take it off any drop. Of course there are better race bikes like the V10 but this is a super versitile bike that is great if you only want one bike. If you happen to be unlucky and get a 5th element, just switch it out for a DHX and you are good to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MAJOR ALDEN DELVO
a Downhiller
from DAVAO CITY, Philippines Date Reviewed: July 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
TANGRAM ugat, Carabao Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
FA components
Strengths:
Travel and weight is just right for DHracing in the Philippine trails.Burly and super strong frame,could take on every rut, gaps, drops with ease. takes the rider to the and could limits, crashes included.Can be pedalled uphill too. Fabrication is top notch and very pleasing to the eyes
Weaknesses:
a little on the heavy side when your freeriding up and down hills. mine is a 42 pound pig.
This is a truly wonderful frame, i bought it because of the thought that i could use it even on off season racing. have reconfigured it to freeride, all mountain and back to dh racing and it still continues to amaze me. had several crashes on this baby, broke some bones,dislocated ribs, muscle pains. yet, there's still a lot of urging to ride this bike some more and push some more. this thing is made for serious abuse and a real eye pleaser too.So if your'e hard core, go for this ride. cant think of any replacement for my baby free! thank you SCB.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle Mason
a Downhiller
from Squamish, BC Date Reviewed: July 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
My Dixie Wrecked
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4100.00
Purchased At:
AKA the bike shop
Strengths:
Frame and suspension design, component spec.
Weaknesses:
Stock tires
Similar Products Used:
Brodie Devo
Bike Setup:
Fox 40's, DHX 5, Race Face Evolve/Diabolous, E-Thirteen
Bottom Line:
I shopped around for a new freeride/DH bike for a long time (at least a year) before finally settling on the VP Free. Am I ever happy with my decision!!! The bike is amazing. It has increased my confidence and subsequent riding level exponentially. The suspension is plush and bottomless until you start cranking on the ol' pedals and then she stiffens right up and pedals like a dream. It's light, it's plush, it pedals sweet, it's bombproof, and the component spec when compared to some competitors' offerings is excellent. Bottom line? This bike gets a ton of good reviews and you might be fooled into thinking it's hype, but don't be fooled! This bike truly lives up to all expectations and doesn't succumb to the hype.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Beau
a Downhiller
from Park City, UT, USA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Strengths:
The sickest bike ever!! I have only had it for about 2 weeks, but I absolutley love it.
Weaknesses:
not really a weekness, but stuff gets trapped in the bottom pivot area rightbehind the bottom bracket, but you hit a jump or drop and it falls out.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain RMX R3, Specialized Demo 9 Pro
Bike Setup:
'06 vp-free, '06 888 RC2X
Bottom Line:
Absolutley love it despite the rather high price tag
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Berry Van Veldhoven
a Downhiller
from Las Vegas, Nevada Date Reviewed: June 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Snake Back (Bootleg Canyon) Dirt Mercchannt (Whistler)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4200.00
Purchased At:
Las Vegas Cycler
Strengths:
Great Performance and Adjustability. This bike has increased my tecnique tremendously, by giving me the confidence needed to take my riding to the next level. Versatile to the next level, this bike even though heave is a blast to take back up the hill (I consider myself a Downhiller more than a Freerider but I actualy enjoy climbing up to the to with the VP Free). WIth the right set up and components this is the closest anyone can come to the ONE BIKE.
Weaknesses:
Price, most defenitly, it is an expensive frame and it is suprisingly easy to cross the $4000 line with it, but then agsain, on your first couple of rides you do realize that if you had to pay for perfromance you would not be able to aford a bike like this unless you where getting paid to ride it.
Similar Products Used:
Is there anything that compare??? I rode an M3 and a V-10 for a while. This is a different league all by itself. I don't think any one has come close to matching the VP Free.
Bike Setup:
Progressive 5th Element rear Shock, Fox 40 RC2 (This fork is "IT") DT Swiss FR Wheels, E13 Chainguide, Race Face and Shimano set up.
Bottom Line:
If you are into speed, big drops, Jumps a full face helmet and looking like a gladiator on a bike this is it. In my 15 years mountain biking I have never rden any thing like it, it is fun, fast and extremely cool. The VPP Platform is amazing, even though it feels hard on the PArcking lot test, you will notice in the first drop\Jump that this bike flows through it's 8+ inches of travel delivering performance just where you need it, it is like Magic. I just returned from a 3 week trip to Whistler (If any of you have been there you know what this can do to your bike) and with the exception of the busted set of Wheels the bike performed consistantly from day one until it was time to send it home. Once again reminding me that the $4000+ I spent where well worth it. If you are into Freeriding or Downhll riding, get it, there is nothng out there that can stand up to it. Santa Cruz should revisit their set ups though, I know that the industry looks for light weight in their bikes, but if you are selling a Freeride Dream Machine you should not worry about a set of Standard Double Ply tyres and a DH Headset. My original Kenda Nevegal and Cross Country Tubes, where of the bike even before it rode out of the store, and the next day the Cane Creek XC Steeering set went ti bike part heaven replaced by a Chris King Head Set. Santa Cruz, Please, you are sellinga Downhill Bike, make sure your customers have a flawless break in, it is a shame that any one would have to worry about anything else than clearing the gnarliest section of their favorite trail ont this dream Machine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Berry Van Veldhoven
a Downhiller
from Las Vegas, Nevada Date Reviewed: June 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Snake Back (Bootleg Canyon) Dirt Mercchannt (Whistler)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4200.00
Purchased At:
Las Vegas Cycler
Strengths:
Great Performance and Adjustability. This bike has increased my tecnique tremendously, by giving me the confidence needed to take my riding to the next level. Versatile to the next level, this bike even though heave is a blast to take back up the hill (I consider myself a Downhiller more than a Freerider but I actualy enjoy climbing up to the to with the VP Free). WIth the right set up and components this is the closest anyone can come to the ONE BIKE.
Weaknesses:
Price, most defenitly, it is an expensive frame and it is suprisingly easy to cross the $4000 line with it, but then agsain, on your first couple of rides you do realize that if you had to pay for perfromance you would not be able to aford a bike like this unless you where getting paid to ride it.
Similar Products Used:
Is there anything that compare??? I rode an M3 and a V-10 for a while. This is a different league all by itself. I don't think any one has come close to matching the VP Free.
Bike Setup:
Progressive 5th Element rear Shock, Fox 40 RC2 (This fork is "IT") DT Swiss FR Wheels, E13 Chainguide, Race Face and Shimano set up.
Bottom Line:
If you are into speed, big drops, Jumps a full face helmet and looking like a gladiator on a bike this is it. In my 15 years mountain biking I have never rden any thing like it, it is fun, fast and extremely cool. The VPP Platform is amazing, even though it feels hard on the PArcking lot test, you will notice in the first drop\Jump that this bike flows through it's 8+ inches of travel delivering performance just where you need it, it is like Magic. I just returned from a 3 week trip to Whistler (If any of you have been there you know what this can do to your bike) and with the exception of the busted set of Wheels the bike performed consistantly from day one until it was time to send it home. Once again reminding me that the $4000+ I spent where well worth it. If you are into Freeriding or Downhll riding, get it, there is nothng out there that can stand up to it. Santa Cruz should revisit their set ups though, I know that the industry looks for light weight in their bikes, but if you are selling a Freeride Dream Machine you should not worry about a set of Standard Double Ply tyres and a DH Headset. My original Kenda Nevegal and Cross Country Tubes, where of the bike even before it rode out of the store, and the next day the Cane Creek XC Steeering set went ti bike part heaven replaced by a Chris King Head Set. Santa Cruz, Please, you are sellinga Downhill Bike, make sure your customers have a flawless break in, it is a shame that any one would have to worry about anything else than clearing the gnarliest section of their favorite trail ont this dream Machine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Young
a Downhiller
from UK Date Reviewed: May 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Fort William DH
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Plush, solid built, loves to go fast, no pedal bob.
Weaknesses:
Lower bearings and poor lower axel design
Similar Products Used:
RM Switch (Sweet), Kona Stab, Stinky, others!
Bike Setup:
FOX 40RC2, DHx AIR (YES AIR!), SRAM X.0, Hadley/823 wheels, RF Diabolus cranks / stem, E.13 DRS, Easton EC70 bars, CH headset, Hope 6ti brakes. 40lb with Maxxis Minion DHF, High Roller UST Tyres.
Bottom Line:
This bike is great, it jumps well and can be used with 150 to 203mm forks, was at the Fort Bill world cup race, and there were some using the Free over the V10 (not many though), great for FR and DH, taking to Les Gets in the summer and can't wait. Use a RM Switch with a Fox 36TALAS RC2 for AM, FR and the VP free for FR/DH.
Given 5,5, only just, as the lower bearings being made of cheese can be frustrating.
Air shock works on the back, and takes the travel down to 7.75". Have a freind with the DHx5.0 Coil, one try with the air and he is now changing.
Would be awsome with the new Boxxers up front, and a slightly lighter tyre (Michelin 16).
LOVIN THIS BABY!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joao Dias
a Weekend Warrior
from Portugal Odivelas Date Reviewed: May 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Sintra
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
www.pernalonga.net
Strengths:
Simple great i think this is the bike of the "years"
Weaknesses:
Cable routing near the rear shock.
Similar Products Used:
Demo8 Bighit Stinky
Bike Setup:
Boxxer WC Deemax Maxxis WTB Thompson EastonEA70
Bottom Line:
VP FREE its a great bike for all around and freeride riding it will save your ass, and are a lot more fun when we ride aggressively. You may climb a bit slower, but you will ride everything else better! And more important than this words try one and see for your self
Tank you SANTA CRUZ
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dutchy
a Downhiller
from australia Date Reviewed: May 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
fox creek steep
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
local
Strengths:
everything, i havent had to change anything since i bought it
Weaknesses:
only the E-thirteen has stuffed up few times....but nothing some tuning can fix
Similar Products Used:
none....i had a sasquatch
Bike Setup:
VP-Free(obviously), 888rc's with arial lowering crowns, E-13, saint cranks, hayes mag, XTR deurailier, 521 mavic rime, 5th element with 500lbs titanium spring, dt swiss hubs
Bottom Line:
what you get for the price you pay is to good to be true...but it is. the bike corners like no other. i was at a local track the other day and it is loaded with berms, i tried it out on my mates bike(demo 9) and it felt a bit sluggish, then i did it on my bike....it is so much better, the shorter wheel base is great for cornering.
the pedal eficiency is great....it goes up anything(in the right gear) and with little bob.
overall......best bike i have ever ridden, you wont be let down!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
poppy
a Weekend Warrior
from Jamaica Date Reviewed: April 20, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
every thing you want that kind of bike to be. looks.
Weaknesses:
the quality of the craftsmanship is not what you want from this kind of price tag, the welds look sloppy, i have old Heckler (2000)and if you look at this two biks together the Heckler is much better made.
BOTTOM LINE !? this bike is great. very stable, you can paddle this bike if you must and if you strong enough, but if this is what you want to do get something smaller and steeper,the bike feel better as faster you go and make you feel better rider then you are, its easy to like this bike, its looks great, but do not go for the "do it all bike" or the "one bike" bull... this is a real freeride bike, but this VP mambojambo add some to the high cost and the suspension this days is so good that good sigle pivot can do all thatas good for less $$$ and simplicity is better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from CT Date Reviewed: February 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
present
Strengths:
literally no pedal bob when in the saddle
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
trek session
Bike Setup:
marz. 66 fork, saint deralliers and crank, avid juicy 7 hydrolic discs
Bottom Line:
this is the best freeride/ downhill bike you can buy after taking it on my ushual trails i am amazed, even with over 8 inches of rear wheel travel this bike still climbs there is no pedal bob
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Cutts
a
from London, UK Date Reviewed: February 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Chicksands
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Tough and soaks up the bumps. Reasonably light for a 8.5" travel bike.
Weaknesses:
5th Element shock and front derailleur. Maybe an inch or so too tall for North Shore type riding.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, V10 and VP3. Spesh Enduro SX (05). Intense Uzzi SLX.
Bike Setup:
SRAM X.0 MRP Hope Mono M4 05 888s. Now has Fox DHX5
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. In 15 years of mountain biking it is the first bike (large frame) that has truly fitted me (I'm 6'6"). It rides up hills better than any single chainring (34t) 42lb bike has any right to yet turn it around and it would easily out run my old S8 and on all but the gnarliest course my V10.
I've never managed to get to grips with 5th shocks so it changed to a DHX5 afetr a couple of rides with a 500lb Ti spring (I weigh 200lbs).
I do quite a bit of shore type riding and it hadles it all pretty well until you get to the really tight or skinny stuff when its height and the 888 work against it a little - heaps of payback on the drops though.
I could never get the E-Type front mech to work as well as it should have so in the end I went to an MRP and have never looked back - grannies are for wimps anyway!
About the only person who shouldnt buy this bike is a weight weenie XC racer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a
from san Francisco Date Reviewed: January 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Crack, One Mile, Boy scout.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
1200 for frame
Strengths:
Here is a guy who has only ridden single pivots. From the first drop on, its been so smooth, it just sucks impacts like some bag of gel. Where does it all go?
Weaknesses:
Well, it feels a bit heavy but, it pedals really well. My first big climb (1200') was easier than with my old bullit. Dialing up the shock is crucial, particularly the compression preload.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR.
Bike Setup:
Marz. 66RC, Saint cranks. E-type XT front derailleur (few other ones work with this frame chain line and BB height) Hadley hubs on Doublewides.
Bottom Line:
If you can afford to build up another wheelset it becomes a vary versatile bike. Light days for all mountain, or heavy (maybe even a double crown fork) for those days when you just wanna go down fast. Over all, so far, an outstanding design.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonas
a Downhiller
from Aachen Date Reviewed: December 22, 2005
A lot of Pivots, Bottom Bracket could be a bit lower
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinkys, RMX
Bike Setup:
5Th Element, 66RC, Truvativ Parts, XT Drivetrain, Evolve X-Type, Gustav M Brakes
Bottom Line:
At first i was a bit concerned about the high BB, maybe i should get a lower Fork. When i rode it it didn`t bother me, due to the low center of gravity this bike rails through corners. It`s a tough bike that really takes some beating, with the Element i found an excellent Setup. Going very plush over Roots and small bumps, but enough reserves for big hits. I will get an ROCO soon for bike park abuse. Hope this shock will feel even better than the 5th. Haven`t tried the DHX on this bike, but i don`t expect much difference. I will soon. This bike looks great pedals well (for 40 lbs) is super stiff. It needs a little more maintenance, because of the plenty pivots. No creeking till now. Although the geometry is excellent, feeling of sitting in the bike, makes very confident. I would give even more chilis, if the frame wouldn`t be that expensive in germany. Even with the 1800 bucks i made a good deal, normal price is around 2500!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cholo
a Weekend Warrior
from Lima - PERU Date Reviewed: December 20, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
+3000
Strengths:
Frame strength, solid ride, maneuverability, 8 inches FOX coil spring shock SUPERB performance eats up anything (AND doesn't move a single bit while climbing), light FOX 36 TALAS, can take big drops/jumps, its a SANTA CRUZ, GREAT climber if you consider the rewarding downhill ride it will serve you after you ACTUALLY PEDAL it up. The speed, comfort, confidence, and overall ride going downhill pays for the "suffering" on the way up (the geometry is superb, full seat post extension). A bike most of us won't outgrow but will become better riders with.
Weaknesses:
This in not a weakness, its just not a strength: 17.5 kilos (+/- 38.8, L frame) makes you climb a bit slower (You'll catch up on the way down). Even though, I FEEL it pedals better than my previous bike. You'll be tired of waiting for your buddies before opening your beer after bombing back down.
Similar Products Used:
2002 Specialized Enduro Pro (not that similar)
Bike Setup:
FOX, Avid 5, Maxxis High Roller 2.35 (heavy), LX rd, Saint fd, Crank Bros 5050 (heavy)
Bottom Line:
THE BIKE (wish it was a bit lighter) if you are fit enough. I was doubting at first... going from a 14.5 kilo (32.2) Enduro, but the Nomad meant too much cash, now I'm extremely happy with my FREE. It climbs a steep 10km single track in a bit more than an hour (used to do 60 minutes on the Enduro) but coming down is SOOOOOO much more confidence inspiring and therefore &*%$ing F A S T E R !!! *GO FOR IT* (just start getting fitter before you put your fat hands on it). SC+FOX=FUN Period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
conor colburn
a Downhiller
from Topanga, California, USA Date Reviewed: November 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Kenter Cyn.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
Helens Cycles
Strengths:
Starting with how versitile this bike really is, from climbing, to rolling single track, all the way to full on downhill/freeride in the heart of whistler BC. Not only can this bike stand up to ANYTHING you throw at it, it is built with that terrain in mind, and is a monstrously stable bike that can take huge abuse, yet deliver a Cadillac smooth, confidence-inspiring ride in the gnarliest of conditions. And, thanks to triple chainring compatibility, VPP suspension, and platform-valved suspension, it can be pedaled smoothly up to those high places where the chairlifts don't run.
Weaknesses:
The only thing I think that is needed on this bike is some type of carbon fender that will block little rocks and things from getting caught up in the lower pivot, and it would also block things from flying up and banging the bike or the rider. (Not much of an issue) You want to also be really careful when selecting a chainguide for this bike because only a few will work. You should always check with the company before buying just any chainguide. You never want to modify the frame just to be able to fit on a chainguide, because it will weaken the frame and it will expire you warrenty, so be careful!!! I know the MRP LRP chainguide works really well and so does the new Race Face Diablous chainguide.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz V-10, Bullit, Cannondale Gemini.
Bike Setup:
2004 anodized black frame,04 Marzocchi 888R W/flat crowns, Fox DHX shock,Race Face Diablous cranks and chainguide w/40t single ring and bashgaurd, and Diablous BB,bars,stem, Sram X9, mavic 729 wheels w/ Stans tubeless system, Maxxis Minion DHR's, and Hadley hubs, Thomson seatpost, with SDG saddle.
Bottom Line:
This is the best freeride bike on the market, with 215mm of rear wheel travel(8 and a half inches) this bike is what you need if you want to have the most aggressive/fun/smooth/huckable machine!!!!!! If you want to race this is a great bike but I would reccomend a V-10, and if you want to cross country and freeride than either this bike or the Nomad is the way to go!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
taylor woods
a Downhiller
from malibu,CA, usa Date Reviewed: October 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
a-line
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
2200
Strengths:
um... everything, this is the best all around bike you can dirt jump, pedal up hill, hit big drops, sketchy downhills... the best bike for an all around rider.
best all around bike ever but dont buy this bike if your not gona abuse it, because this bike can take it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
K. P.
a Downhiller
from North Vancouver Date Reviewed: October 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
- FOX 40 RC - Wow. I had a Durado, this is even better! - DHX5 - Nice! I had a Romic before and I thought it was nice. - Peddling - Wow... nice and light. First ride was a XC ride. - Color - Trans. blue - cool. Other choice is trans.red. - Avids - Stop faster than the Hayes, but I DON'T like the vibration/squelling of the rotors. - e13 - Always nice. Had one before, would not use any other. - Frame - Very nice.
Weaknesses:
- Front Hub - I could have a bad hub out of the box, but I will ride it some more before calling this failure. - Cables - Don't like the navigation of the cables across the crossbar, my legs catch the zap straps all the time. Will work on this issue, but there is no other place for them. Oh well.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Team DH, Cannondale Gemini 3000 and 2000, Trek, Norco Team DH & Shore and a few others. I did narrow it down to a Foes Fly, VP Free and Intense Uzzi, but could not ride them. So...
Bike Setup:
VP free, Fox 40RC, Fox DHX5, Juicy 7, SRAM 9, Saint front derailer, Truvantiv cranks, e13 DRS guide, easton vice stem, easton monkeybar 2" rise, DT rims, Kenda 2.7" front & 2.5" rear.
Bottom Line:
I have ridden a DH bike for a long time. I thought I might step back a little so I can get something lighter, more agile (freeride), and peddles nicer since it would have a small chain ring. This was a nervous decision, BUT WOW! I am not a racer, but I do go hard and fast. I have not lost anything, but gained way more. I can peddle up faster, throw the bike around more and simply have a little more fun. So... if you are not a racer, build up a VP Free with your favorite downhill gear and you will not regret it!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jacob joergensen
a Weekend Warrior
from denmark Date Reviewed: October 11, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
this bike is awsome, the Vpp system makes it easy to pedal at any time anywere..its set up with a 5th element shock 8,5" off pure hunger! that will eat anything you through at it...freeride, downhill racing, urban....whatever
Weaknesses:
the spacers in the linkage system will need to be changed after 3 months...(who cares?!) and if you get the anodized you will have a hard time keeping it clean! the rear hub is 150mm....deemax is not possible:(.....the price
Similar Products Used:
none...i've allways been riding hardtails (GT RUCKUS)
Bike Setup:
VP free, hayes mag, marzocchi 66, saint cranks, mrp slalom 1 guide, easton vice stem, easton monkeybar 2" rise, alex rims DH, wtb/ddg hubs, nokian 2.6"
Bottom Line:
the bike is great...GET ONE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mudd
a Weekend Warrior
from Fallbrook, SoCal U.S.A. Date Reviewed: October 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Flightline
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
mtbr.com classifieds used
Strengths:
Beefy, burly, 8-1/2" of VPP travel! Digs in on the climbs and ascends like a hardtail. Descends like a MX Bike!
Weaknesses:
Wish I could come up with something....... Ok, the vp-free sticker on the rear triangle gets rubbed of by my heels.
Similar Products Used:
The single-pivot Santa Cruz Bullit; (2nd best bike in the world.)
Bike Setup:
2004 Large VP-Free;(Stealth Black), Fox DHX 5.0, 7" Junior-T;(saving up for an 888RC), XT/XTR, Hayes 8" F/R, RaceFace Diabulus Bars and Crankset, MRP LRP, Thomson Seatpost, Azonic LoveSeat, Mavic 521's, Kenda Navegal 2.5" F/R, Oury Grips.
Bottom Line:
Graduated from 4 years on 2 Bullits. What a difference! The Free makes the tough steep climbs that my friends on their Bullits just can't make, and decends so smooooooooooooooth. I pick the nasty lines just to see what this bike can do! If you have the 5th Element, upgrade to the Fox DHX 5.0. 10 times better ride. Better adjustments too!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bogdan Miliu
a Downhiller
from Ottawa, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: September 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
used frame of mtbr
Strengths:
- can be setup very light weight for a 8x8 bike. - pedals very well - super plush - nice lenght top tube ... can actually strech a bit out to pedal (not a big fan of the stubby TTs like the new Shore)
Weaknesses:
- when the rear shock is not setup right the bike feels quite crappy (though setup with the directions from SC is idiot proof) - rear tire clearnace is a bit tight, getting a kenda nevegal 2.7 you have about 2mm of clearance lenght wise. - when seat is slammed rear tire will rub it on full compression
Similar Products Used:
'03 Norco Shore, '01 Chuck Cycels FS, SC V10, RMX
Bike Setup:
Race Face NS DH Cranks, 8" Front Hope Ti6, 8" rear Hayes Mags, 1x9 drivetrain, Sram 9.0 rear cassette, Sella Italia seat, Easton EA70 seat, '05 Zocchi 888RC with stem, easton monkey light dh bars, Hadly rear hub, formula front, Mavic D521s, Kenda Blue Grove/Nevegals, 5th element with TI spring
Bottom Line:
I pick up this bike in April used of a guy on here and the bike was in stellar shape. I swapped all my comps of the Shore onto this bad boy and off to the races.
The thing i love about this bike is the weight, with my setup and running DH casing tires the bike weighs in at 39lbs. Right now I am experimenting with some Kenda 2.5" free ride casings and dh tubes which puts the bike in the high 37s, want to see how they hold up on the dh park.
This is my one and only bike ... so it does duty on urban, xc and dh .. which is why I am doing my darndest to keep the weight in the 38 range ... this way it can pedal nice.
The bike climbs much better then my shore ever did, the cockpit has a great layout. Frankly this bad boy climbs like it was a 5" bike. I just need to get in better shape to push the 32x34 gear ration up the steeps, but i think i should be able to, I love the smiplicity of running a single upfront.
For DH the bike is perfect ... plush and easy to throw around. I just got back from whistler and it took all the pushinment of the Garbonzo section and Aline with no problems.
This is my all time fave bike so far... all teh dh ability I want and need but still has a bit of the feel of my old xc rig.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan
a Downhiller
from San Luis Obispo Date Reviewed: August 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Montana De Oro
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Co. (it was used)
Strengths:
Bike handling, suspension is awesome, pedals incredibly, light weight (39 pounds for 8,5" of travel is pretty dang good), looks (its one sexy bike).... pretty much everything!
Weaknesses:
The black powdercoat frame shows every singly spec of dirt and little scratch on it. Although the "stealth" look is cool, its hard to keep looking good. The rear end is very wide and my shoes often rub the frame when pedalling.
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, Giant AC1, San Andreas, Gemini
Bike Setup:
Large frame with DHX, 888RCWorks with lowrider crown, Mavic D3.1 UST rims on Hope hubs, Hutchinson Octopus UST tires, Sram XO, new style XT cranks dual ring with MRP, Hayes 8", Monkeylite bars, Thompson post, Speed V saddle, Time Z pedals, oury ODI grips. 39 lbs.
Bottom Line:
I'm constantly amazed by this bike. From the first ride out, I felt very comfortable on it-- it makes you feel capable of doing anything. You really can't tell that the bike has 8.5 inches of travel when you're climbing up the hills. Actually I think it climbs better than my 5" trail bike! Its relatively light for how burly it is and is pretty easy to whip around, yet is very stable on the ground and in the air. I love this thing!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Money
a Weekend Warrior
from Gilbert, AZ Date Reviewed: August 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Geronimo
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
Everything. Very stable bike [coming from a V10, that says a lot], jumps very well, climbs amazingly, rips on the downhill [smooth, super technical, off camber].... It really does it all. Oh yeah, it looks sick as all get.
Weaknesses:
If I had to complain about anything, it would be the way that dirt collects on the dog bone linkage near the bottom bracket. Seems like dirt/rocks would get crambed in there while suspension is compressed. When the wheel returns, it will crush anything that is in there. Other than that, it is the best bike I have ever owned.
Similar Products Used:
Have owned [6" Bullit, 7" Bullit and V10], Brodie Demon, Big Hits, Kona's, etc...
Bike Setup:
66RC, Medium frame [I am 6'2"] with Fox DHX 5.0, mavic D321 hoops, marzocchi front hub, hadley rear hub, FSA DH Pig head set, thomson seatpost and stem, XT discs, Hussefelt cranks with Evil DRS [34-24], Michellin 2.8 in front, High Roller 2.7 in rear, DH tubes, slime in tires. Only 46 lbs.... Ha ha ha ha.
Bottom Line:
It is the best bike I have ever ridden. I have climbed up some seriously technical trails and BOMBED back down them. The bike handles everything that is thrown at it. I have landed some nice 5' high speed drops on some nasty ass landings and am still in COMPLETE control for turns ahead. No real need for a floating disc brake, I notice no brake jack and not much different in suspension activity with brake applied. Climbs like a billy goat, even at 46 lbs. It is the true do it all bike. XC rides, Free riding, shuttles, dirt jumps, you name it. Worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Shoemaker
a Downhiller
from El Cajon Date Reviewed: August 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Barlett Wash, Moab
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse
Strengths:
Travel, pedaling power, can ride just about anywhere. Very good in the air. Good smooth landing.
Weaknesses:
A few creeks in the shock and pivot points. (after 6 mos of ridding)
Similar Products Used:
Jokers, Id, bullit, Heckler, Giants, Treks, and more.
Bike Setup:
XL frame, 5th element with 400 lbs spring. Fox 40 RC2 with heavy spring, Race Face Diabolus cranks, stem, seat post, Hotseat, Juicy 7's, Hadley rear Sun front huds, Mag 30 rims, Xt drive train. etc..
Bottom Line:
This is the BEST bike I have ever ridden. First time on it was like have have owned it my whole life. It will make you do things you did not think you could, or should do. You can ride up the trails and fly back down. You can't go wrong with this one!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bogdan
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: July 20, 2005
Hayes 8" Mags, Hadley Rear Hub, Race Face NS DH Cranks, Easton Carbon bars, King Headset, Xt rear derr, Mavic D521 Rims 38 lbs
Bottom Line:
The bike is setup to be a good freeride bike, yet it only weighs in at 38 lbs. I can get it down to 37 next year with a Titanium Spring and a IBeam setup.
I ride at the local ski hill .. it's so butter for dh, yet rides quite well as a all around bike. It's my one and only so it has to be able todo most then just downhill.
Best all around bike i've ever had.
Value wise ... they are pricey, but i got mine used but stil in great shape ... so it was a good value to me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Deppe
a Weekend Warrior
from Laguna HillsUSA CA., Date Reviewed: July 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Telonix/Aliso Woods Canyon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Bike CompanyNon
Strengths:
NON
Weaknesses:
Non
Similar Products Used:
NON
Bike Setup:
Marz888,Fox DHX, Thompson seat post and stem,Chris King headset,Sram XO R Derailer, and front, Tubeless W/ Mavic223. Sram Thunb Shifters, Monkey BarsXT hallow-tec Cranks, MTB saddle, 8" hayes hydrolic sealed brake system 18" frame (lg).
Bottom Line:
This is the unlimate freeride bike with VPP padal power. Ideal for the aggessive crider who does noy want to spend 4500.00 on a dh bike.Lots of travel and excelent pedal power.Approximate weight 37lbs. This bike is race ready at 10 lbs lighter than a DH bike. By far the best deal in town!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, ID, USA Date Reviewed: July 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
The Trail We Do Not Speak Of
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4200.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
Suspension design, overall feel and stability
Weaknesses:
None so far. Took 4 months to get the bike but that may have more to do with me getting a polished aluminum frame
Similar Products Used:
I have been riding a 2000 Santa Cruz Bullit for the past 5 years
Bike Setup:
Polished aluminum frame, 888RC, Avid Juicy's, Truvativ cranks, SRAM X9, Mavic X321 wheels, SRAM Grip Shift......pretty standard setup.....went with the standard $4200 SC build set
Bottom Line:
My only complaint so far is the 4 month time that it took to receive my bike and also with the 6 inch rotor that was slapped on the back of my bike (I have an 8 inch on order but couldn't believe it came with a 6 incher). Have only had the bike for two weeks so far but am enjoying it immensely. Coming off a Bullit the first thing I noticed was just how plush the suspension is on the bike. Took it straight to a downhill course we have around here and felt like I was riding a barcalounger down the run it felt so smooth compared to the Bullit. Other thing I noticed is how little time it took me to get comfortable on the bike coming off the Bullit and how well the bike handles.....just an awesome machine! Again, I have only had it for 2 weeks but have done everything from stunt riding to downhilling to XC singletrack riding and love it on all that stuff. I honestly can't think of anything I would improve on the bike. Taking her to Whistler in less than 4 weeks and can't wait! If you are considering a freeride bike, you will not be dissappointed with this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason nolte
a Downhiller
from Philly Date Reviewed: June 22, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Anything allowing ample airtime
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
The VP free is sick, It pedals like a hardtail and takes the big stuff like an overweight giant. Doing urban, XC or DH, this bike was the best decision I have ever made when buying cycling equipment. Lighter than the average DH rig.
Weaknesses:
I cannot sleep thinking about it and I get seperation anxiety knowing that it is sitting in my basement right now. Also, when I ride it, I can't get off of it.
Similar Products Used:
SC Bullit
Bike Setup:
Anodized Orange, Marz 888, Avid Juicy 7s, Fox DHX 5.0, Atom Labs Trailpimps, race face X-type cranks, MRP 3 guide, MAXXIS.
Bottom Line:
Silly, sick, and great looking. Love-after-first-ride kind of relationship. The suspension design of the frame and the Fox rear shock is incredible with small bump resistance and awesome big bump performance while pedalling like a hardtail. This suspension blows my old Bullit single-pivot design off of the trail. Bottom line; Impress all your friends and buy a VPP because you'll smoke 'em going down and then back up too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lonmeister
a Weekend Warrior
from Maple Ridge, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: June 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Whistler and The Woodlot
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
Life Cycle Bike Shop
Strengths:
Confidence inspiring balanced geometry ... feels good in the air. It is an excellent freeride bike that weighs in at only 41 lbs. My experience is that it can sure handle a lot of abuse, and it gets up every time ready for more.
Weaknesses:
It took some work to initially get the bike dialed in. When I buy my next VP-Free, I will get the Fox DHX 5.0 (rather than the 5th Element that is on my bike), so that I can have improved adjustability. I just talked to another VP-Free owner at Whistler yesterday who noticed a day and night different when he traded out his 5th Element for a Fox DHX 5.0. My only other feedback in this category is a little on the picky side - I have to put extra effort into cleaning the dirt and mud out of the bottom hinge area of the VP rear suspension of the bike, because it collects there during my ride. That would likely be the case in most bikes - a few areas where dirt or mud collect.
Similar Products Used:
My previous bike was a SC Bullit that I really enjoyed.
Bike Setup:
Stock freeride set-up with 888's, and switched to a single ring at the front.
Bottom Line:
I do love the new virtual pivot point technology from SC ... it is very evident in the bottom part of A-Line at Whistler, a part of the trail that I didn't feel quite as confident on with my old Bullit. I am a 42 year old rider (5' 10" and about 190 lbs) who has been doing this for 3 1/2 years (one season off with a bad injury), and I think that the great bikes that SC builds have helped me to have a lot of confidence to quickly get to a place of taking on trails that I originally thought were out of the question for a late starter. My bike is a Medium frame and it feels almost perfect (I may shorten the stem from 60 mmm to 40 - 50 mmm).
I feel bad for the guy below me (Andy) who had a problem with his bike (not my experience). Maybe he could talk to SC and I am sure that they would love to help him. The guys at Life Cycle in Abbotsford have had the best service and back up support from the SC people, and I know that I would never have a problem in getting the after purchase service if I had a similar issue.
The overall bottom line is that I love my SC - I also have a Heckler for trail riding, and have a new Nomad on order for light freeriding. I am going to be maxing out on the Flamin' Chilis because there is great overall value in this bike and great back up support for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jacob
a
from Elk Grove (you can hear the banjos) Date Reviewed: June 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
the earth
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
your momas
Strengths:
freaking awesme bike i love it. my fruity booty friend thought the bullit was better but i politley disagreed. i told him to shove it and then i did a 20 ft drop one hander. he tried it on his bullit and cried like a little bihatch. thats what you get when you suck. oh well. he has little nuts hawhawhawhaw. set up is very nice :)
Weaknesses:
nothing except it makes me do crazy shiat.
Similar Products Used:
not the bullit
Bike Setup:
lots of crap
Bottom Line:
this bike makes me hot in my pants and if it were a woman i would stick it where the sun dont shine. hucking it over huge gaps is routine untill i eat dirt and break something. jsut kidding.. how could you eat crap with a pimpmobile like this? so much better than the bulllit... so sweet... jacob rules (ben does too) (not butt loving bryant)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andy
a Weekend Warrior
from scotland Date Reviewed: June 15, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
liesure lakes
Strengths:
excellent frame with a high quality finish and clever virtual pivot, obviously. long top tube for manouverability and throwing your wieght around.
Weaknesses:
very pricy but you do get what you pay for. I found that the nut and bolt that holds the shock on works its way loose every now and then but a bit of lock tight will soon fix that.
Similar Products Used:
i haven't ever owned a similiar product as my last bike was a specialised p1 but i have tried a few full sussers like the big hit, devinci wilson, demo 8 and the likes
Bike Setup:
medium frame with 888rc's, mavic 321 rim's on hobe bulbs, hope mono 6ti brke on the front m4 on the rear, e thirteen chain device, fifth element shock with 500 lbs spring which should be 100lbs to heavy for my 12st but i find it works really well, xt gear stuff, race face north shore cranks and so on.
Bottom Line:
All in all very impressed with the bike, it felt right as soon as i got on it, more manouverable than any 8.5 inch travel bike i had ever been on. I am 6ft on a medium frame and i found the bike quite small which is what i was after. what i also found was that the head angle is quite steep, which makes it even more nimble even with 888's, this is because it's not an out and out dh bike. Another thing that it has over it rivals is the virtual pivot means you can pedal like f/'k on a flatter section and leave most conventional bikes behind. If your not after a full on down hill rig and would like something thats not to sluggish and slow on the twisty bits, then i would recommend the vp free. Unfortunetly i havent done a wide variety of riding on the bike yet so my advice is limited but hopefully this review has helped you out in some way.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cameron Allen
a Downhiller
from Hickory Date Reviewed: June 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Hick Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3750.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Very strong frame, and looks killer !, I love the VPP suspension and I loved the DHX shock, but its even better now with the 5th element.
Weaknesses:
none known yet..
Similar Products Used:
SC bullit
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Shiver DC 05 Sun Big Mammoth Rims on DT Hugi FR hubs Specialized Roller front tire 2.6 Specialized Enduro rear tire 2.4 Race Face Seatpost Azonic Hot Seat Sram x-9 shifters and rear deraileur XT front Deraileur FSA X-drive xtreme cranks Kona Jack sh!t pedals avid juicy 5 brakes with 8" rotors FSA pig headset easton vice stem answer pro taper bar ODI ruffian lock on grips
Bottom Line:
I got a crap load of graduation money and decided to build my dream bike, and workin with my LBS they hooked me up, because I've interned with them for 2 years....but so far this bike has realy impressed me, it climbs incredible for a full blown FR rig...descends fantastic, and it feels like it has more than 8 inches of travel...the fork is nice, but its different, everyone I ride with has a 888 so I realy just wanted something different, and I dont like the idea of the 66, 7 inches on a single crown is pushin it a lil bit..and Marzocchi or Fox is the only way to fly, I'm, hopefully gonna try to fun a Fox dh 40 on the bike soon as I have the money, and can sell the Shiver..I take this bike on back country rides also, its sorta hectic but when I go for long rides, i take off the shiver and put on my old z150 and run the 6 inch travel settting on the vpp and take it out, and it still rides smooth. Ive done a 36 foot road gap on it and it was buttery smooth, and landed a 18 foot drop super smooth on it, and I've even had a few good crashes on it, very nice ride, I'd recomend it for a person with deep pockets and who likes to live a little big dangerously...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wil langdon
a Weekend Warrior
from burnaby Date Reviewed: June 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:
dirt merchent
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
john henry bikes(staff)
Strengths:
frame,ability to ride up hill without bob,plushness,great looks
this bike seems to amaze me every ride, i wont be riding her for awhile now that i just broke my wrist 2 days ago so 6 weeks till i can ride her :(
if u have any questions feel free to e-mail me at shore_rider1@hotmail.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C-los
a Weekend Warrior
from Hickory NC USA Date Reviewed: May 22, 2005
Favorite Trail:
NC mts, Windrock TN, Stunts
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Clarks in, HKY
Strengths:
Awsome suspension, much better paint than on then old bullit, Stiff frame 150mm rear hub, can do anything,can hit any trail. looks great. easy to pedal.
Weaknesses:
$$$$$
Similar Products Used:
2001, Bullit, bullit is another great bike by the way. have tried Big hits, Stinkys, Yeti asx,Those were just test rides on others bikes.
Bike Setup:
2005 vpfree with jr T, DHX shock(rocks!)hayes disc brakes, race face Diabolus crankset, Azonic wheelset and other stuff.
Bottom Line:
I bought this set up as frame and shock only. Have had it for a few months now and it F--king rocks. handels rough terrain great takes drops well and is easy to balance on stunts. The bullit I had with the 5th elm took drops very well but it felt flat on jumps with out much lips. not this bike, the dhx makes it a whole new way to ride and it adjs very easy. when I first got it the spring was just too soft 450. I have since got a 650 and it does a great job of taking flat drops. There are a lot of great bikes out there but this is a whole new level of riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin
a
from Bristol, UK Date Reviewed: April 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Anything Steep
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$7000.00
Purchased At:
Stif Mountain Bikes
Strengths:
Does exactly what it says on the tin...will take all the abuse you can subject it to on the way down, efficient and completely bob-free on the way up
Weaknesses:
None...except a bit tricky to set the chain line up correctly with a double chainring and an e13 DRS.
I had numerous and significant problems with the supplier: if you are a UK customer / potential customer DO NOT BUY FROM STIF MTB: I had to wait a year for the bike to arrive (not their fault as I placed the order before it was released in the UK and I chose a polished frame); I was crystal-clear in telling them the components I wanted, they had a whole year to source them, but when the bike arrived they got the build wrong. This is completely UNACCEPTABLE, particularly when I was charged extra for them to fit the parts I had originally ordered. Furthermore, my questions regarding build options were answered as if they thought I was fussy / wasting their time. Bottom line: steer clear.
I get the bike serviced at Mud Dock (Bristol) who are brilliant: knowledgeable, helpful and efficient.
Similar Products Used:
SC Bullit, Yeti ASXR, Cannondale Gemini
Bike Setup:
Medium Frame; Polished; 5th Element (steel spring). Manitou Sherman Slider Plus (2005 model). Chris King Headset. Easton Vice stem. Easton EA 70 Mid-rise bars. ODI Ruffian lock-on grips. XT Shifters. Easton EA 70 Seatpost. WTB Rocket V Stealth. Hope QR Seat collar + Bar-end plugs (gunmetal grey). Mavic 321 XM, DT spokes, Hope Bulbs (gunmetal grey), Continental Gravity Protection tyres. Hope Mono Ti6 + Goodridge Braided Hoses. Full XT transmission (26, 36 tooth chainrings) + e13 DRS chain guide. Wellgo MG 1 platform pedals. Weight: 37 pounds (weighed on 2 separate sets of scales for accuracy)
Bottom Line:
Love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
And_Y
a Downhiller
from Krasnoyarsk, Russia Date Reviewed: January 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
DH all aro
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Veloimperia
Strengths:
Rear suspension work perfect. I'll never ride on other bikes again :-)
Ideal bike for every day using. It's no limits with VP-Free. You can doing anything you want if you are ride this bike. Drops, fly, climbs... VP-Free love it all...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Oscar
a Weekend Warrior
from Stamford, CT Date Reviewed: December 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
A-Line
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Strengths:
Mountain biking. It is simply good at all aspects of mountain biking.
Weaknesses:
XC racing (as good as it is, 40 lbs is just too heavy for racing)
Similar Products Used:
Big Hit, Gemini, Bullit
Bike Setup:
Standard FR-X kit with 888R and 5th El.
Bottom Line:
The VP-Free is ideal for the dedicated trail rider who believes in having the most fun possible on the downhills, steeps, drops, etc. while still being able to climb efficiently (vs. trail rider who wants lightest possible bike). Although its not the fastest climber, its no slouch and it has gobs of traction so you can literally climb anything your legs can handle. I only own one bike so it needs to be very versatile. Mine has been used for: 1) Epic XC rides 2) Shuttled and pedal serverd free riding including steeps, big drops, man-made stuff, log rides, etc. 3) Lift served downhilling
5 flamin' chilli's because it is just so darn fun to ride. 4 for value because it aint cheap
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ROLAND GR
a Weekend Warrior
from JHB SOUTH AFRICA Date Reviewed: December 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
LIKE YOU"V BEEN THERE
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
DRAGON SPORT
Strengths:
NO BOB, 8INCH TRAVEL ,HIGH FUN FACTOR
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
SCOTT HIGH OCTAIN F/R,BULLIT ,BLUR ,INTENCE SPIDER ,GIANT AC,NRS
Bike Setup:
888RC FOX DX5 SRAM ,FSA, THOMSON ETC...
Bottom Line:
DUDE I CAN'T SAY MORE THAN WHAT HAS ALREADY BEEN SAID.... READ ALL THE REVIEWS .... VP IS ONE SICK PUPPY. THIS BIKE LOVES ROCK GARDENS, STEEP DROP OFFS AND HANDLES SINGLE TRACKS WELL TOO, NOT TO MENTION THE CLIMBING ABILITIES AND THE BEST THING IS I CAN STILL RIDE THIS BIKE HOME AFTER A GOOD SESSION ,WHAT I MEAN IS THE BIKE STILL GOES EVEN WHEN YOUR LEGS ARE TIRED(VPP).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cam junor
a Cross Country Rider
from brisbane, australia Date Reviewed: November 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
honey bee, seoul
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
it's all good. bombs down hills-pick a line and ride it. beautifully made and finished (black anodized)
Weaknesses:
well i guess it's not super light....
Similar Products Used:
i have owned a blur, a heckler and they are similar in that they are bloody good at what they wre made for...
Bike Setup:
boxxer, xt 4 pots,sram xo,thomson and max'm and woodman bits, kona 3pc cranks,mavi 729 with hutch jumbos.
Bottom Line:
i am amazed by this bike. It cleans climbs that others on hardtails and xc bikes push up, bombs down like a waterbed on wheels and pedals brilliantly. I am racing my blur, but i might only bring it out on race days, as the VPfree is too much fun not to ride (and it will make me way strong- it is heavy!)really awesome job yet again Santa Cruz- someone buy them boys a beer!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Clark
a Downhiller
from Cape Town South Africa Date Reviewed: November 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any mineshaft
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Action Cycles
Strengths:
Everything! 8,5" of the best travel available, sweet trans red colour,VPP, no bob.
Weaknesses:
What are weaknesses?
Similar Products Used:
Trek vrx 300, 2003 giant ac team.
Bike Setup:
trans red vp-free,2004 manitou sherman slider forks,sram throughout,truvative,Fox dhx 5.0,thompson seat post, titec hellbent stem and handle bars, shimano xt front derailer.
Bottom Line:
you shuold buy it if you want a pedalable downhill sled, I am only 14,this more travel than I could ask for,Fox shock is the best I'v felt and at the local DH trail I use as much as can be used of the travel on the hits without bottoming it, oh and did I mention that I can now ride up rite to the top while beating the spandex bregaid on their 3" spandex mobeels,ha ha
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert De Grace
a Downhiller
from One, Two, Three Date Reviewed: October 14, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Gillard, Kelowna
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The frame and 5th element are, to me, all they're cracked up to be. Super plush, big hit capacity, and the damn thing still pedals. I don't cross-country ride, but there's always a pedal section here and there and I can feel the advantage when sprinting and/or pedalling out of corners.. it just feels good to pedal. The bike still pops and jumps well too.. not too mushy for me. I was on a 5" stinky DL w/ a 7" boxxer - I feel the extra travel and 5th element keeping the bike to the ground a lot more, making it easier to ride the bigger lines and skip over everything in between. I really feel the bike holding the ground better when cornering and/or braking through rough, fast, and/or steep stuff. I think it's the perfect bike for me.
Weaknesses:
Santa Cruz cheaped out on a few items. 1) the stock Kenda tires that actually come with the bike (not the intenses in all their pics) are not fit for a Walmart bike. 2) After about 10 days of riding the rear WTB rear hub is shot - sounds like crap, feels like crap, and lots of play. How could SC put such a crap hub on such a nice frame? It ruins the whole feel. It will truly suck to have to dish out for decent hubs after spendig all this money on the bike. 3) Finish - yes just cosmetic - but after a few days of shuttling/riding all the decals are trashed. For the big bucks they should be clear-coating over the decals (like Rocky), or painting the graphics (i think they do for anodized frames). Where's the pride? These items are costing them one chilli.
Similar Products Used:
2001 Stinky Dee Lux w/ 2003 Boxxer Race
Bike Setup:
Stock w/ 888R Saint Cranks, MRP Chain Guide, Maxxis Minion DH Super Tackey & Slow Reezay
Bottom Line:
Bike is awesome
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Burlingame, CA Date Reviewed: October 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Stuff with dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Bike Connection
Strengths:
Solid bike, not too heavy (at least compared to my old bike). Even people that don't know MTBs will comment on it. Beefy welds
Weaknesses:
mmm... none yet no wait the stock gearing needs to be changed. Even people that don't know MTBs will comment on it
Similar Products Used:
Other squishies
Bike Setup:
Large Frame, 888, XT all around, blah blah blah
Bottom Line:
Great God this is a killer ride goes downhill and can go up pretty well too. Have yet to hit the drops due to injury but I bet the thing will be like butter, nice and smooth. Oh did i mention the LBS messed up my order and gave me the wrong bike. I actually ordered the lesser of the two SC build kits and got the better of the two.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ChiefRedEye
a Downhiller
from Concord, CA, USA Date Reviewed: September 30, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Unlimited adjustability. Huge amounts of travel. You can ride this thing up the hill, then bomb over just about anything you want.
Weaknesses:
$$$ This bike isn't cheap. Weight would be an issue if you race. If you're in it for sport, the wight is well worth the ride. I would also recomend taking the rock gaurd off and throwing a third chain ring on. On flatter decents, tourqe gets maxed between 14-16 mph.
Similar Products Used:
2000 Diamondback X2
Bike Setup:
Medium anodized black VP Free w/ R kit, with a soon to be installed third ring.
Bottom Line:
If you intend to ride across the city every day, look elsewhere. If you want a bike that you can pedal up the hill and still handle good sized drops, this bike is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lebe
a Downhiller
from Phx AZ Date Reviewed: September 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
AZ Bike Experts-Tucson
Strengths:
Great pedaling, plush ride, Juicy 7s, SC quality & R&D, seemingly far less brake jack than Bullit
Weaknesses:
WTB rear hub, only 1.125" head tube, some chain problems because no guide (don't think BB-mount chain guide would work because the front derailleur mounts to BB).
Similar Products Used:
Heckler, Bullit
Bike Setup:
Z-150 for every day riding, Dorado for racing, XT, Juicy 7, Mavic 729 & Kenda with Stan's, SDG Belaire
Bottom Line:
Love this bike. Much better at speed in technical stuff than the Bullit which wanted to launch off every little bump. Hugs the ground like is VPP wont.
The WTB rear free wheel broke six weeks in, had it replaced under warranty and it broke again. Put in a Hope with no more difficulty so far. Otherwise, it works great with two chain rings (came 32/22 and changed to 36/22). The Juicys are a great brake coming from years with Hayes.
Don't know why SC or any free ride/DH bike manufacturer wouldn't put One Point Five head tube in. There are adapters available. They went to the 150 mm rear hub spacing which is also somewhat rare (couldn't use my preferred Rohloff speed hub but expect to have adapters soon). The One Point Five would accept Sherman 7" single crown. The Z-150 explicitly labeled No Racing or Extreme FR.
This bike recommended for anyone who prefers riding/racing DH. Mine weighs 38 lbs with Z-150 & trail tires, 42 lbs with Dorado & DH tires.
Five steaming loaves for value as this ride is better than many more expensive sleds. Four overall 'cause of weak rear hub and 1.125" head tube.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
george
a Weekend Warrior
from bay area ca Date Reviewed: September 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
brail in santa cruz
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
east coast side
Strengths:
Totally stealth
Weaknesses:
say what?
Similar Products Used:
lots and lots of bullits, heckler and a tomac magnum 204
Bike Setup:
2004 large black anodized vp-free, with 04 888r for DH and 04 Z-150 for all around, Gold Hadley DH Hubs laced to 823 mavics, Hope MONO DH M4 brakes, Gold Chris King HS, Holzfeller triple crank, Race Face DIABOLUS stem and bar, WTB stealth DH titanium saddle, Thompson post, ALL XT drivetrain, Time Z Pedals, Yeti hardcore lock on grips,
Bottom Line:
The ride is set up all black with the 888r on it, sweet, with a touch of gold makes it looks bling bling. When climbing it does not bob at all, its a hard kore all around bike. You could make it lighter,, but why
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Slim
a Weekend Warrior
from The Orange Curtain, CA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Bike Company, Lake Forest, CA
Strengths:
Works as advertised. Climbs well despite the weight, quality welds and paint, ultra plush going down. Customer service was top notch from the Bikeco and SC. They swapped out the Progressive for a DXH5 and got me the right sized spring (unlike a certain other bike mfg in CA that begins with an "E".
Weaknesses:
Wife won't talk to me anymore. Actually, one thing I noticed is that the very bottom pivot/link tends to collect gravel. Also, the paint covered the BB faces. Not a problem if you have a standard BB, but you need to face it to mount outboard bearings(like Saint).
Similar Products Used:
Intense, Rocky Mountain, Turner, Kona
Bike Setup:
Small frame, Fox DHX5, Marz super t, Hope mono M4, Hope/mavic wheels, Saint Cranks, Sram drive train, yada yada.
Bottom Line:
At just under 38 lbs this is no x-c racer...although I enjoy pedaling past some x-c bikes up & down the hills. Climbs better than my Turner, but with the big fork, steep or technical climbs along with very tight single tracks are more difficult (tall front and slow steering). Down the hills, I can now comfortably keep up with my peers on DH bikes.
I'm sure there are plenty of similar bikes that can do the same, but I couldn't be happier with this setup.
Buy this bike if you like to huck, ride fast, go chairlifting and pedal...and you can only have one bike.
Don't buy this bike if you eat or drink "diet" anything, if you don't like people (cause they constantly stop you on the trail to ask you about the bike, really!) or if you continually find yourself weighing your parts at the bike shop.
Value gets a 5 cause compared to some of the more expensive offerings...the VP works as well or better.
Overall gets a 5 cause it's a month later and all I can think about is riding my VP Free!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
william yoshimura
a Cross Country Rider
from salinas, ca, usa Date Reviewed: September 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
fort ord
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
bobcat
Strengths:
Just a blast to ride. Went from a Litespeed Ti hardtail to the VP-free. Don't think I ever would have shattered my ankle or went over the bars had I been riding this bike from the beginning. Although the set-up weight is about 42 lbs vs 23 lbs for my hardtail, the bike climbs surprisingly well. Due to the rear suspension tracking the steeps so well, I just hammer away at the pedals...no exaggerated seating position and trying to avoid rear tire slippage. All I know is that the 'fun factor' is back into my riding. There is no perceptable pedal bob once the 5th element is set up. Life has never been so sweet on the rough. Just need to get back the downhill skills as this bike just sucks it up without a complaint. Sure brought a big smile back to my face. The bike is superb. The VP-free is the true do it all bike. Converting to triple ring as soon as the parts come in. Yes the Litespeed was quicker and climbed faster, but I will never go back. Comfort, fun, stability, and ultimate versatility. The VP-free is like the car you always wanted just because its such a blast to ride.
Weaknesses:
Cannot find any as of yet. Will update as soon as I have a complaint about the bike. Somehow, I doubt it. Just be patient setting up the 5th element and 888's. The Marzocchi manual is the worst. Luckily, I rode with a friend that knew setup pretty well and got me started out right.
Similar Products Used:
None. Superlight, Litespeed, Sugar Plus. Went from pure road and XC bikes to knowing in one ride what I've been missing out on all along. Just looking foward to my next ride.
Bike Setup:
Bike is set up as comes from the factory. 888's, 5th coil, etc. Added WTB seat and Gravity Dropper seatpost (a definite must!). I am 5-9 and 210 lbs (more with gear). The small frame was suggested by the shop and has worked perfectly.
Bottom Line:
If you have to have just one bike that does it all. If you want a bike that does not compromise when the going gets rough. If you want a bike that makes you ride better. If you have to have an 8 inch travel bike that climbs and doesn't know its a downhill/freeride bike. If you want to retire your old bike to that darkest corner in the garage...get the VP-free.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from WestVan, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: September 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Dirt Merchant
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
steed
Strengths:
solid climber. confidence builder. Perfect bike for the Shore.
Sweet sweet sweet. Best freeride bike I've owned. I took my first ride with it on the Shore last weekend and it climbed like a XC bike. Confidence building up and down the hill. Looking forward to hitting Whistler Bike Park. One word: SOLID!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PluckYew
a Cross Country Rider
from Berekeley Date Reviewed: September 3, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Rented, near Mammoth Mt.
Strengths:
41# - heavy, stable for downhill and jumping. seems to pedal well for such a phat hog.
Weaknesses:
41# - heavy. $3700 just to get started...
Similar Products Used:
none, not even a xc fs (don't belive it.. I'm sure Blur's a fine trail bike, i don't need it for racing, unless
Bike Setup:
stock, rented
Bottom Line:
note i'm a xc racer who rented this bike for my week long vacation at Mammoth Mt., CA...taking gondola lifts to the top.
coming from a 25# xc hardtail, the vp-free was both sluggish to handle and fun to ride.
hardtail can handle much of the Mammoth Mt. descends, but of course, can't compare to the stuff vp-free can handle and the speed that the vp-free descends with.
if your're going to have one mtb and can afford $3700+ (and is not going to xc race) then the vp-free is it. why bother with puny xc fs.
i'll likely buy a vp-free in the Spring for DH racing and trail riding (and then relegate my hardtial just for xc racing)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr. T
a Downhiller
from Foothill Ranch SoCal Date Reviewed: August 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Santiago Oaks, Orange Ca.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Co. Lake Forest Ca
Strengths:
Super stable feeling on descents, no bob at all on uphills. I had a UZZI SLX before and it bobs like crazy on climbs. The VP feels like a hard tail climbing. On downhills, the bigger the bumps, the better it handles. It is acutally a little stiff on small chop. Sag is set at 50%now which softened it up a lot and dropped the rear so it was not so stink-big. This bike feels so stable you can charge it through stuff and it just tracks straight. Quality is A+ welds are nice the design is artwork.
Weaknesses:
Was super stiff when I got it. It comes with a 400lb spring (med frame). So I ordered a 350lb spring and it made a huge difference - still no bob, but super plush on the downs. I weigh 160lb and the 400lb spring would not allow correct sag setting. The bottom bracket threads were caked with weld flash or some crap, just clean it out do not force the BB in, it should almost go by hand.
Similar Products Used:
Intense UZZI SL bought new in '97 and an SLX / Jr T in 2003. Never found a bike worth switching to till now.
Bike Setup:
SRAM all around, Hope 6 piston brakes, 888 with 7" travel kit, Diabolous crank, Hadley hubs, 321 rims, Maxxis 2.5 front and rear. Weighs 42lbs. Takes a while to get the shock and forks set right - keep tweaking!
Bottom Line:
Best bike I ever ownded - its my only bike and it gets pedaled up all the same hills as the other 30lb bikes. I've always pedaled 40lb bikes everywhere, its just not worth the scetchy ride a weenie bike delivers on down hills - those bikes will kill ya.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a
from San Juan Capistrano Date Reviewed: August 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
The Bike Company (bikeco.com) Lake Forest, California
Cable stops on the frame for derailler cables are a bit confusing... There is a cable stop on each side of the bike near the head tube, but no cable stops near the seat tube?? The housing and cables just need to be zip-tied.
Mavic 819 with Hope bulb (built by master wheel builders at the bike company: Sage and Joe), Juicy 7s, Thomson stem, MonkeyLite DH, SRAM X9 shifters, SRAM XO rear D, Shimano XT Crank and BB (32/22 w/RG, should have gotten 34/24), Shimano XT front D, SDG I Beam seatpost & seat, Marzocchi Z150 (2004)..didn't have patience to wait for 2005.
Bottom Line:
The bike climbs better than my Uzzi and descends better than any bike I've ridden. The bike's weight is a conservative 36 pounds (according to my bathroom scale). I weighed myself, then weighed myself with the bike more than 10 times and the weight of the bike ranged from 34.5 to 35.5 lbs. It is pretty damn light for a Freeride bike. It is a small frame with black powder coat.
The bike is very well balanced and soaks up every rut, rock, and berm so far, but I haven't really tested it to it's full potential and travel capabilities. I'll be doing that this weekend. If my impressions change, I'll post another review.
If you prefer Descents over Ascents and don't mind climbing, then get this rig. This will be my ONLY mtb for Big Bear, Aliso Creek, Whiting, Mammoth, Moab, etc....it can do it all! My younger brother is building a blue VP-Free with a Super-T and my other brother has ordered the Intense version...it's that gooooood!!
Thanks for all your help Sage and Joe at the Bike Company...you have the premier Freeride shop in Orange County!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sriracha hotsauce
a Downhiller
from jackson, wy Date Reviewed: August 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
ritalin (r.i.p)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
hoback sports, jackson
Strengths:
solid chassis, DEEP travel, pedals like a 43lb enduro, great handling, nimble and stable, quick acceleration, no bob when pedalling - standing up or sitting. once set up right the rig feels awesome
Weaknesses:
stock suspension setup was a bit firm for my liking
this bike is the best bike i've ever owned. initially though, the rear suspension was set up quite firm, not plush. the bike chattered and deflected off rocks that my bullit would absorb. i think santa cruz wanted the bike to pedal great. after some tinkering with the fully adjustable 5th eliment, i was able to get the bike to ride the way i wanted. now, i am riding DEEEEP in the travel, it's set up really really plush and supple like a v10, but i never bottom it out. the rear end sticks to the ground, absorbs all stutter bumps, jumps great, but still pedals like my enduro. really, the thing pedals great, which means acceleration on the downhill. i'm constantly amazed by how well this bike rides in ALL relms. it is a solid chassis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew Loitz
a Weekend Warrior
from New Britain, CT USA Date Reviewed: July 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Metavomit
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3700.00
Purchased At:
Cutting Edge Snowboards
Strengths:
VPP Suspension, 8.5" of Progressive travel, Mavic 729 Wheelset....etc
Weaknesses:
Haven' found one yet
Similar Products Used:
SC Bullit
Bike Setup:
Super T, Hayes brakes, Mavic 729's, King Headset, Time Z's, kenda 2.6 Sticky E's, WTB Laser DH
Bottom Line:
I am totally blown away by this RIg. It has exceeded my expectations in every area. This VPP technology really works. I can't believe how well this bike climbs especially on technical ups. I was concerned this bike was going to be overkill. I was wrong.
This is the future of freeriding. My first two cars cost less than this rig, but it's all relative and a relative great value for what it does. I loved my Bullit but you will have to pry this bike out of my cold dead hands.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
K.C.
a Downhiller
from half moon bay Date Reviewed: July 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
northstar
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
I got the chance to ride this bike at sea otter, sonoma, etc. and I am concitering getting one. If anyone has one(new) that they are selling or would like to trade (the frame) for a 2002 super8 with a 2002 shiver and thompson post that would be great. Fork was serviced at sea otter, shock is a new(as of sea otter) fox RC with pro pedal, comes with 850 and 750 spring.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Quillan
a Downhiller
from Olympia, Wa, USA Date Reviewed: July 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
bullit, velocity, and chainsmoke at mammoth bike park
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
everything. This bike can be pedaled uphill better than many cross country bikes and take 10'+ drops. the fork kicks a$$ the cranks kick a$$ and so does the rear suspension. if you want the ultimate freeride bike, i'd get this bike
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Santa cruz bullit
Bottom Line:
BUY THIS BIKE!! THERE ISNT A BETTER ALL AROUND/FREERIDE/DOWNHILL BIKE IN THE WORLD!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Manny C.
a Weekend Warrior
from Lynwood, CA, USA Date Reviewed: July 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Snow Summit
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Co.
Strengths:
Virtual Pivot Point (VPP) Technology, super plush, 5th Element, Santa Cruz quality, replaceable dropout, strong frame, and 8.5 inches of travel with no bobbing!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Specialized BigHit Expert & Kona Stinky Deelux, Giant AC1.
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Super T, Mavic XM819, Saint Cranks, SRAM X0 Rear Derailleur, SRAM X9 Shifters, Hayes HFX Mag HD Brakes, Chris King Headset, Hadley Rear Hub, Hope Front Hub, Michelin Tubless, Easton EA70 Handlebar, Lock-On Grips, Thomson Seatpost, WTB Lazer V Saddle.
Bottom Line:
This bike is the ultimate do-it-all bike. Handles very nimble and plush. I've taken it on trail rides and downhill courses and it's handling is unbelievable.
Trail Rides: The bike pedals with absolutely no bobbing whatsoever. The VPP suspension makes the bike accelerate pretty quickly and makes the bike feels lighter, which makes the bike a great climber.
Downhill Rides: This bike bombs through the DH courses. I've taken it up to Big Bear and it chews up anything in it's path. Jumping is a breeze and landing is very plush thanks to the 5th Element. I have mine set up with a Marzocchi Super T in the front and both work in harmony for a very comfortable and stable ride.
Get one and you'll fall in love with it. I didn't want to stop riding it when I first rode it. This is definitely one of the best (if not the best) all-around bike out there. The waiting list is long but worth the wait!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Walter Devine
a Weekend Warrior
from Pacific Beach, CA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Santa Ana River Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4200.00
Purchased At:
Cambria Bike Outiftters (Thanks Keyth!)
Strengths:
This bike will make anyone think they are a much better rider, as long as you don't try to keep up with lighter bikes on a climb. It does, however, climb with better traction than my Id due to the extra suspension sag and wider tires. The only limit on the downhill is me. It is a solid handler on any of the trails at Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort and allows me to keep up with better riders on Noble Canyon in San Diego. I was almost able to keep up with a rider ten years younger than me on a Blur on the Downtown run at Mammoth. This is an almost 4 mile smooth downhill sloping run with lots of hairpins requiring you to be able to quickly brake, turn, and accelerate. Some rough spots really work the suspension, but the bike just keeps going. Got a run through Skidmarks at Mammoth (very rough downhill run with lots of loose rock and hairpins) where a friend on a Gemini could almost keep the pace, but the friends on the Enduro and the Blur were well behind us. The bike also comes in an XL size which I need. The bike is a blast! (For those of you not familair with the named trails, see the MTBR Trail reviews for the California - San Diego Area for Daley Ranch and Noble Canyon; See California - All Other Areas for Mammoth.)
Weaknesses:
The anodized orange color on my bike tends to be darker where the welds are. My Id has consistent color throughout the frame and welds. There is some rubbing of the chain on the bottom of the swingarm. The Manitou Sherman Slider Plus fork is a bit stiffer on small bumps than my Marzocchi ZR-1, but is fine on the bigger hits and is awesome when its time to climb. I would not bring this bike to Daley Ranch or use it to climb up Noble Canyon.
Similar Products Used:
My current stable also includes a Schwinn Four Banger and an Ellsworth Id. The lighter weight of the Id allows me to keep up with my cross country friends (the VP-Free would be too much on an extended climb or an all day excursion). The Cannondale Gemini my fiend rides tends to bob too much when he pushes it hard and is bit heavier. I keep recommending the Specialized Enduros to people who want to do cross country, epic rides, and light downhilling on a reasonable budget. I still think the Id is the best bike if you can only have one, and can afford to go the custom route.
Bike Setup:
This was a custom set-up to my spec. WTB Power V Dh saddle, Thompson seatpost, Easton Monkeybar handlebars, Easton Vice stem, Manitou Sherman Slider Plus fork, Truvativ Holzfeller 22/32/44 chainring cranks, Salsa Chainring guard, Shimano XT shift pods, E type XT front derailleur, XTR rear derailleur, Chris King Nothread set, DT/Hugi Freeride hubs, Sun Singletrack wheels, Panaracer Fire 2.4 FR tires, Avid Juicy 8" brakes
Bottom Line:
This bike was a dream come true for me. It makes a great second bike for the times when you plan on going fast over rough terrain and want a higher degree of control going downhill. I would recommend something lighter if you have any friends into cross country riding. If you do cross country now and want to get into something more capable, you will be amazed how well this bike climbs and hammers through the flatter sections.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt martin
a Downhiller
from Palmer Lake, Colorado, USA Date Reviewed: July 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
ain't tellin
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
price was right and wieght was good and not to heavy
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
bullit,asx,haro x1 (turned that into a dh bike)
Bottom Line:
this is an awesome bike, goes through anything you give it and i was so depressed that i didn't have enough money for it but when i get it all i can always find somewhere else to buy it at
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brandon Coustette
a Downhiller
from Redding Ca, USA Date Reviewed: June 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Apollo
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Chain Gang
Strengths:
Climbs like a goat, bombs down anything you point at it. By far the best all round bike I've ever been on. VPP system rocks! Does everything and more than the hype said it would do.
Weaknesses:
Hidden costs, Not very many companies have the 12-150mm rear hub but, it definatly makes the rear end stronger pluse, the rear wheel isn't dished making stronger.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Demo 9, San Andraus Sin, Giant DHR, Santa Cruz V 10, Bullit, Blur Rocky mountian Switch, Foes, Inferno, Roadmaster, Shiwinn Sting Ray.
Bike Setup:
Jr T's Saint cranks, evil DRS bash guard, 5 way Progressive, Maugura gustavo brakes. Rolling hard on 321's and Maxxis tyres,
Bottom Line:
This bike is for anyone, I ride up most of hills I bomb down. If your into riding fast and hard downhill w/ drops and jumps and anything else that runs across your path, and don't always have a Ski lift this bike will do it. It also does it all just under 40lbs, I can't seem to think of a negitive thing about it, Santa Cruz did it well with this one. I definatly hope this is the way bikes are headed. Five Flaming poops on this one
888R, 5th Element, Full Hays, Shimano mix, single ring front,
Bottom Line:
People know me as the bike slut because in the last 4 years i have gone trought; Rocky Mountain RM6, Rocky Mountain Pipe Line, Kona Stab, Norco VPS1, Brodie Devo, Cannondale Gemini 2000, Banshee Scream, Santa Cruz Bullit, and now THE ULTIMATE BIKE ever....The VP-Free. Santa Cruz has just re envented the mountain bike. That things is unbelievable climbs like a cross country, decendes like a DH, and turns on a dime, and jumps like a BMX. I'm telling you this one is a keeper...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Julio
a
from Santa Cruz, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 30, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Durability, price.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Full Shimano Saint. Manitou SPV and Progressive shock.
Bottom Line:
I'm mostly a cross country rider but I got the opportunity to test this bike out on some local trails. The Suspension was amazing. I could haul a$$ down some of the more technical stuff that would ususally have me picking a careful line on my X-Country FS. The travel on this bike just lets you bomb through it scary-fast. Did some real climbing too and it didn't suck nearly as bad as I thought it would. I've riden a few other "freeride" bikes and they all suck when it comes to climbing. This bike can really climb but seems to be a step above youre average freeride rig. Almost a downhill worthy ride. If you ever get the chance you should definetly try one out. Price is going to be very reasonable too.
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