Weekend warrior seeks multi-purpose machine for mountain and town. Needs a capable, confident machine for legitimate trails. Wants to cruise around town, too, but still maintain mountain biker identity.
Frame: Alpha Black Aluminum w/semi-integrated head tube, formed down tube w/integrated gusset, formed top tube, monostay seatstay, forged dropouts w/rack & fender mounts, replaceable derailleur hanger
Submitted by
swainby1
a Cross Country Rider
from manchester
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2012
Strengths: Iv'e got the 2012 new spec bike in a nice blue....was initially worried about the suntour forks but they are actually better than the Rock shox xt 30 I had on my old bike...alot has been upgraded from the 2011 version, and so far I have no problems with it.....disk breaks are trustworthy so far down hill, and the frame is quite rigid....iv'e had no problems with any of the shifting components so far.
Weaknesses: Seat is uncomfortable and I believe this is a common problem with these spec of Bontrager seats..but this can be changed if it dosen't give. The frame isn't the lightest by any stretch....mines weighing in at about 13.5 kg. The front riding position was too high for me so Iv'e removed spacers and shaved off the steerer tube to fit.The tyres are pretty easy rolling, but not the best for slimy conditions....but most people have different sets for different conditions....so pop my nobby nicks on.
Bottom Line:
Well iv'e given it a good welly on most type of trails, apart from big drops and it seems to cope well....this bike will be great for intermediate/beginner riders looking to get into the sport and develop fitness and skills before moving on to a high spec bike.....I love mine, and for the money I think it's a guddun once youv'e tweaked it to suit your riding.
Submitted by
Mr. Singletrack
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, Illinois
Date Reviewed: December 7, 2011
Strengths: Frame- its super sturdy if you treat it right and it has decent geometry, decent crank for an entry level bike. The derailleurs have held up to over 3k miles of trails and streets.
Weaknesses: FORK!!!! It's extremely rigid- compression & rebound are too slow for technical trails- pre load adjustments are a joke, HEAVY- feels like I'm pedaling and Abrams up a hill, Derailleur is okay for entry level but has issues under extreme situations, the brakes have great modulation but power is lacking, front derailleur rubs just a bit no matter how much you fiddle with it, those combo brake/shift pods are COMPLETE crap and complicate any future upgrades in that area. Also, in my opinion the stock tires, grips, and saddle just plain blow.
Bottom Line:
This bike is an outstanding value for the beginner! If you are reading this as a newcomer, and have never done any real mountain biking, get one and ride! I understand the newer models even have hydro brakes, which makes them even better. I doubt many novices will regret buying this bike, it's been a decent all around rig. That being said, don't expect this to be your first and last bike. Those who already have one in this price range or are moderately experienced; I'm sorry, you're gonna need to up you're budget a little. I Upgraded within two years of purchasing this bike, and now have upgraded about 4 times since that. This is a wonderful setup for those who want to get the experience they need, as it is still capable enough to use on technical trails. Albeit not as capable as more expensive bikes, it gets the job done.
I've rated this bike in value, and overall, by what else is available in it's category and my overall experience with the bike. Therefore, I think it deserves a solid 4 stars. Not the best, but pretty darn good,
This bike feels comfortable and looks good. The big is tough; it's taken a ton of hits. Rims stay true and frame is strong.
The fork is garbage. Might as well be riding without one. The drivetrain is lowest grade shimano. I bought the bike before I knew much about MTB; I would NEVER buy the same bike now. Why Trek puts a $20 rear street D on a MTB bike puzzles me. The all-in-one shifter brake assy. is junk. I really like the frame, but it almost doesn't make sense upgrading it. I might start tossing used parts from my other bike on it as I updgrade; we will see. Or just sell it.
Submitted by
Biff The Great
a Weekend Warrior
from Georgia
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2011
Strengths: Good crank
Weaknesses: The wheels are garbage, warp easy. The brakes howl like a wild banshee and the rotors warped. The fork might as well be rigid, rear derailleur broke off, broke chunks out of the rear cassette. And it's really heavy.
Bottom Line:
I have dumped way too much cash into this bike for what its worth. You might be better off with a Sette or just doing a custom build of some sort.
Bike Setup: Sun Ringle wheels, Avid rotors, XT brakes, all components are XT; 9speed cassette, shifters, derailleurs, and cables. Easton bars.... the list goes on.
Overall Rating:
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Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from San Antonio TX
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2011
Strengths: Promax Hydraulic Brakes, Frame
Weaknesses: Seat, Crank
Bottom Line:
Its been 20 years since I went mountain biking so it took a little to figure out what bike was right for me. After 3 months of research I bought the Trek for 2 reasons, 1) it was the only one left in stock for my size, and 2) after the road test I loved it. Rode it twice now on some good single track trails as well as the road, the bike is awesome, shifts when you need it, handles perfect and the shock works great. So if your just getting back into the sport or a first timer, this is the bike for you.
Submitted by
E-Reg
a Weekend Warrior
from San Juan, PR
Date Reviewed: May 12, 2011
Strengths: Frame. 2011 model upgraded several components, so keep that in mind when reading reviews of earlier model years. Bike comes stock with hydraulic disk brakes, and a fork with a hydraulic lockout. I weigh 210 lbs and the drive train is holding up well.
Weaknesses: 2011 bike with an average sized 18" frame weighs 32 lbs. I did remove the unforgiving Bontrager Evoke 1 stock seat and replaced it with a heavy Planet Bike gel padded ARS comfort seat. It probably added an additional pound to the bike. My wife's 16" Skye SL (WSD version of the 4300) weighs 30 lbs stock (smaller handlebar, stem, and rim brakes). The frame is light and strong, and weight can be reduced over time by upgrading other components such as the wheels, seat post, fork, stem, etc. Stock platform pedals are wide and comfortable, but bulky. Swap them out for lighter pedals (cage) and reduce 8 oz.
Bottom Line:
I considered the top end 3 series as an entry level bike, but opted to upgrade to the Trek 4300 because of the light weight formed and butted frame (the 3-Series is straight gauge like big box store aluminum bikes).
I followed the advice of a friend to invest a bit more for a good frame that is worth upgrading over time. So far, I've had no issues with the stock components, but I haven't put it to the test with aggressive riding since I've focused in the beginning on building up my strength and skills. I rode mountain bikes for 3 years 12 years ago, and I'm still too rusty to push the bike to its limits.
Wheels are slow on roads, but they were intended for traction, and I've had no issues so far. I've avoided wet conditions because my wife has rim brakes, so I haven't tested it on muddy trails. My aggresiveness is at 60%. When I get to 100%, I'll update my review of the brakes, and traction.
I ride 3 times per week average, so I haven't put my bike to sufficient use to determine the long term reliability of its components. Keep in mind that the 2011 model year updraded several components from past years, perhaps to address quality complaints from customers. That may account for the weight difference between my bike and another reviewer.
I rate this bike as average in value because you are essentially getting what you pay for, a weekend warrior mountain bike competent for tackling real XC and single track trails. The frame is good enough to build upon. If I sustain an interest in mountain biking over the next few years, I'll likely invest in higher end components. Part of the fun of the sport is the thrill of installing better parts.
The frame geometry of this bike is designed to put the rider in a slightly more upright riding posture than race ready bikes (for ex. top tube is 2 CM shorter and the head tube angle is smaller than the more expensive 6 series Treks). Since I'm on the short side for an 18" frame (5' 8.5"), the top tube length suits me, and my riding posture is perfect. A slightly taller rider may feel too upright for aggressive trail riding. Check out how the 6000 feels by comparison, but be prepared to pay $300 more.
Bike Setup: Stock, except for Planet Bike ARS comfort saddle for non-downhill riding.
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Submitted by
DSRB
a Weekend Warrior
from DFW Texas
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2011
Strengths: Gearing is great and brakes stop very well. Looks awesome with the design and tough frame.
Weaknesses: 34lbs off the floor. It is a heavy bike which does help with absorbing vibration but takes away the agility of the bike and the freedom of movement. The shock is cheap and not as great on bumpy trails when it keeps clunking. For the price I was hoping a little more quality. My old 08 3700 trek felt more solid then this bike. Very bulky bike but does feel more forgiving and luxury in the ride. Not something I want.
Bottom Line:
For a 600 dollar bike I was hoping more out of it. These newer bikes now day have step out of heart pounding rush days into more comfort luxury ride style which is pure stupid. The quality is somewhat there but it just feels cheap compare to older bikes unless you step into the very expensive bike. Also at 34 lbs (Measured it on a weight scale) this bike is heavy!!!!!!
Great for beginners who has confident but not for people looking to upgrade from. My old 08 3700 trek was more solid and even my carbon giant feels and rides better.
Similar Products Used: Trek 3700
Many other custom built bike.
Bike Setup: Stock
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Submitted by
Nick
a Cross Country Rider
from Spartanburg, SC
Date Reviewed: March 1, 2011
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. Besides needing regular adjustments, it hasn't given me any problems. I've had it on the trails 2 or 3 times a week over the past two years without any issues. Given the option of upgrading this bike or finding another, I believe I will be upgrading.
Submitted by
McFrizzle1659
a Weekend Warrior
from ivoryton, ct, usa
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2011
Strengths: good geometry,good rims
Weaknesses: fork has no rebound control at all, heavy, paper weight. also the brakes are annoyingly loud, tires wore out in a month, need constant tuning and adjusting.
Bottom Line:
will get you to where you need to go, good exercize, but wont last you all day on the trail. i would reccomend this bike for anyone on a very tight budget, and not willing to spend anything towards quality.
Bike Setup: 2009 Trek 4300 Disc, WTB Race Kevlar Seat, Titec Post, Velociraptors
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Submitted by
JeffRock
a Weekend Warrior
from Troy<Ny USA
Date Reviewed: September 4, 2010
Strengths: Nice entry level. Frame is solid.
Bought this because i didn't want to spend over $1,000 on something that i didn't use.
Weaknesses: Forks, Drive-train. but i knew this going into it. disks are Ok.nothing V-brakes work better.
Bottom Line:
Not a bad bike, not a great bike. good for a beginner, or someone who wants to get back into the sport, but wants to make sure they dont drop major cash, and not stick with it.
Nice because i didn't want to spend to much on something i might lose interest in. But I do not think that will happen. Bought it because i know i can make upgrades over time and make it a sweet ride!
I gave up BMXing, and riding dirt bikes which were my favorite past times to buy a house, now i long for a hobby again.
i am replacing a 1994" Trek 8700 which has seen a lot of use through the years, So i am not new to MTBing. just put it off for awhile.
good beginner bike, with potential to be a great bike! but
Strengths: the only thing that i like about this bike is its look and the seat post
Weaknesses: the whole drive train is crap the disc brakes are rubbish and squeek alot. the quick realease on the front wheel came loose and i fell off. the forks are cheap and ugly. the derallier hanger broke and i jumped off a kerb. the rear wheel buckled after goin down 4 steps. im 13 and i ride pretty hard and if your gonna use this bike everyday dont get it. it isnt a good jump bike and it cant take wheelys.
Bottom Line:
its a crap bike and trek could have done a lot better. it would be ok for road use but not a good mountain bike i will be selling this and buying a spezialized rock hopper or stunt jumper
Similar Products Used: trek top fuel, ticket 30 carrera vulcan appollo scrambler( this was my first proper bike and it took everything and lasted about 5 years with me and i sold it good bike for 10 yr old)
Bike Setup: all stock components rst gila shimano disc and alivio dealier
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Submitted by
joe shmoe
a Weekend Warrior
from greenville SC USA
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2010
Strengths: Premium Name
Weaknesses: Everything other than the name. I bought three with the good intention of trail riding. Well they really never made it to many trails just roads around the neighborhood. Everything wore out quickly. Cables, sprockets, brakes, bearings. These bikes are garage kept and have less than two hundred miles on them. I took them to the official TREK shop and was appalled by the estimate to fix the bikes. WHAT A SCAM. When I said that the tech just smiled and said job security. The bikes have set in my garage since. I would never buy this name again-ever.
Bottom Line:
Buying the name. Giant rip-off. TREK market statagy has to be sell the name- who cares about quality if we can "skin" each consumer one time we will be rich. AND.......if they're stupid enough we can get them a second time on repairs.
Submitted by
torrent7043
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia PA
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2010
Strengths: Good entry level bike, really nice frame (about all that ive left stock so far) great for climbing and cross country riding five-seven days a week for the past year
Weaknesses: Components are best, but are good for an entry level bike and have held up well so far
Bottom Line:
Great Bike for an entry level, amazing frame lots of upgrading potential really holds up to daily riding on wissahickon trails and others in the area
Favorite Trail: Wissahickon, White Clay Creek, French Creek, Marsh Creek
Duration Product Used: 1 Year
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At: Human Zoom Manayunk
Bike Setup: 2010 Trek 4300, Rock Shox 318 Front Fork, Mavic Wheelset, Kenda Tires, Bontrager RaceXlite 110mm stem, Kore Flat Bar, future upgrades include new crankset
