Submitted by
Jace Kuyper
a Racer
from Phoenix, Arizona USA Date Reviewed: November 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
National, Trail 100
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Used
Strengths:
Light weight bike for the amount of travel. Climbs well for a full suspension bike. It takes a good amount of abuse. Descends like a champion. Best bike I have ever owned. 5 1/2 inches of travel lets you have fun exploring any trail, while the light weight lets you ride a longer day.
Weaknesses:
None, this bike does anything
Similar Products Used:
Trek fuel EX.
Bike Setup:
Fox float RLC front and back. All XT. Brake shifters, The only way to go!
Bottom Line:
Buy it. Totally worth the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allan H
a Weekend Warrior
from York, England Date Reviewed: November 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Black Craigs
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
no free ads here!
Strengths:
Really struggled to get this bike set up for the 1st few weeks but soon realised that a little plusher than normally expected worked for me. Also had the dreaded squeeking issue which drove me mad at first but I learnt how to service her up every 3-4 months, which takes about half an hour. All this rubbsih about replacing the bearings 3-4 times a year is not true - you need to shorten the axles by 2 mm and use plent of anti seize compound and that will keep her sweet(even through the 9 month long British winter). Its a truly awesome ride and I have at times considered changing her but for what? I use the bike for marathons, trailquest, trailcentres and moorland hacks - its just a blinding all round bike. Maybe when SC finally wake up and make a Blur 120mm travel I will change!!
Weaknesses:
The rider!!
Similar Products Used:
Sc Heckler and Spesh Rockhopper
Bike Setup:
2009 Talas 140, rp23, full xtr, hope pro 3 with dt 4.2 rims with a nic on the front and ralph at the rear, juicy carbons, thompson, easton and sdg finish off. 28 pounds in all.
Bottom Line:
Probably in the top 5 best frames ever made!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cgerald1
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst, NH, USA Date Reviewed: October 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Hogs Back
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2789.00
Purchased At:
Souhegan Cycle
Strengths:
Light weight for full suspension, climbs great, goes down even better.
Weaknesses:
Price (but I guess you get what you pay for). I also wish the build kit came with a shorter stem, the 110mm is just too long for me. I also bent the rear XT axle the first week I owned it. No clue how that happened.
Similar Products Used:
SC Heckler, SC Chameleon, Kona Kuhanna Deluxe
Bike Setup:
Rock shock dual air fork, Sram X7/X9 mix, XT hubs laced to mavic wheels, Fork RP3 Shock, Juicy 7 brakes with 185 front and 160 rear rotors
Bottom Line:
Overall, this is a great bike. I thought it would ride similar to my Heckler but was I wrong. It actually feels very different. The Heckler felt very stable and things happened much slower on the Heckler. The LT is super quick. I may go to a shorter stem (i.e. to a 70 or maybe a 50). I hope this will make the bike feel a little more stable. I couldn't believe how light the LT felt compared to the Heckler. The LT is definitely a step up from the Heckler (both in performance and price). If you have the cash go with the LT but if your pinching pennies and want a bullet proof single pivot the Heckler is also a great ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
taukappamu
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore Date Reviewed: October 3, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very nice to climb on. Light-weighted for its class.
Weaknesses:
None yet in this short duration.
Similar Products Used:
Commencal Meta 4, Salsa Caballero
Bike Setup:
2010 Fox Vanilla RLC 15QR, Hope Pro II hubs, Mavic 819 rims, 12.85 kg : RP23 with boostvalve, Thomson X4 50mm, XT cranks, dees & shifters, Hope Mono Mini brakes, Kenda Excavator 2.1
Bottom Line:
This is a first impressions review. The good things mentioned in the previous reviews are true (I confirmed my temptation after reading the reviews). I love esp that it can climb so well with 140mm susp in front. I could actually sit much more upright climbing the same trails compared to my other bikes. The rear really just sticks to the trails while I climb. The downs are definitely more fun now as well. Now I do not have to pick lines too carefully. Going for the direct line is becoming a first choice. Of course the fork plays a part, but the overall combination is just great. Gives me more confidence overall. Now the limit is not the bike, but the guts & skills of the rider. It will most probably be true to be the one bike if you can only have one.
(Note: I do not do drops)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nordic09
a Weekend Warrior
from Date Reviewed: August 9, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Finland (frame only)
Strengths:
Climbs extremely well, and holds traction over roots and rocs. Stiff rear end. Low centre of gravity. Perfect geometry for all mountain use.
Weaknesses:
Low bottom bracket when lot's of rocks and roots. Decreasing SAG from both ends helps. Another thing: changes rear gear while climbing uphill, and rear suspension dives on roots or rocks. Haven't able to fix that.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel, Giant VT.
Bike Setup:
140RLC / QR15, Medium liquid blue frame RP23 2010, syntace riser, thomson stem/seatpost. XT cranks and others XTR. SLR XC, No Tubes Arch / dt supercomp / Hope Pro II's. Rubber Queen 2,2 UST + some stan's. 12,4 kg.
Bottom Line:
After Giant VT, this is great bike. It climbs much better and also over roots and rocks. It uses all the travel from back, while does not bob at all. I don't normally use pro pedal at all. Rear end is very stiff and you really notice diference VS. flexy giant VT. It makes me think, should I have put 36 Float RC2 to front in 150mm mode, to get higher front end and bottom bracket, also would use closer to 140mm of travel!? Anyway that present fork works fine as well but with higher SAG does not use all travel. First I was thinking about tracer, but not anymore. This is very well built frame, which I believe takes 5 years without problems. And if you get bearing problems, there is ready made tool to open and change those. Good long term thinking when designing this product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
youngt2
a Weekend Warrior
from Hamilton. Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: August 4, 2009
Rear Derailer hanger breaks like glass ( better carry an extra)Never did receive the 'included' grease gun as promised. Can't fit a bottle in the 'opener'on the hanger either.
Similar Products Used:
SC Super light for 6 years
Bike Setup:
SC factory XT LT groupo upgraded Tubless 2.35 wheels Fox Talas 32 etc. 3rings up front with rock guard.
Bottom Line:
Around here If you see an impressive rider chances are he/she is on a Santa Cruz'something' Even though customer service/communication is not so hot this far from California. The blur LT 2009 for me is a light allmountain but a heavy X-country/racer ( I've still got my superlight too for racing)
Rockgardens & climbs are a breeze but when the suspension compresses you'll smash peddles (2nd set in 2 months). I'm on rear derailer hanger #3 too.It breaks before you feel a snag on the drive train. These seem like insignificant gripes but I shopped hard, did my 'due dillegence'& paid BIG BUCKS! & walked the bike out 3 times in 2 months - The devils in the details- Awesome do all design but let's hope Santa Cruz refines their components
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtn_freeride
a Racer
from Auburn Date Reviewed: June 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Clementine
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light, Responsive, Efficient, Strong, VPP
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Prophet, Giant Reign, Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, FOX Float, Formula R1, WTB XC Team Kit, PO1NT 70mm Stem, Crank Brothers ACID Pedals, Full Ti Kit
Bottom Line:
This is an absolutely amazing bike, super fast, strong in all situations...the quintessential AM race bike. I have loved this bike from the beginning and it excels in all types of riding
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rideguy
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonds, WA Date Reviewed: May 29, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Kessel
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great Bike, does it all, climbs better than anything I've ridden and can take a medium hit to boot. Handles great. This bike makes me a better rider.
Weaknesses:
A little suspension creaking but you know that going in when you buy one
Similar Products Used:
A lot
Bike Setup:
Basic, SRAM drive train, Fox 32 fork, RP23 shock
Bottom Line:
Love this bike. Good solid value, I'm told that the new one's don't creak as much. I wish I had bought it sooner instead of balking at the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sashinka
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney Date Reviewed: May 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Rotorua Forest NZ
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Brookvale bike facto
Strengths:
Great climber, descender, hardly any bob from suspension.
Looks sweet. Versatile do anything- XC to all mountain.
Weaknesses:
CREAKS LIKE A 100 YEAH OLD ROCKING CHAIR. Have replaced all the bearings with the pro kit..first ride still creaks. Think
lube will fix it. Does need a lot of TLC though. Thats just the price you pay for a high tech suspension design - that works brilliantly.
Similar Products Used:
Kona stinky, KHS, GT zaskar.
Bike Setup:
Light. Fox float RLs, RP23, Tioga wheels, carbon hubs etc.
Bottom Line:
KIller bike if you dont mind wearing ear plugs on flat long climbs for the creak. Expensive little sucker too. Overall all though the best bike I have ever ridden hard on technical trails. Get the Blur LT2 as it seems to have better bearings and grease ports for the creak.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Page 449
a Cross Country Rider
from Burlington, KY Date Reviewed: April 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
England-Idlewild
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
Light, strong, well built. Climbs great. Excellent swooping through tight single track.
Weaknesses:
Decals suck, paint is weak (scratches easily). Limited rear tire clearance and mud builds up pretty easily where the chainstays and seat tube meet.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Joker X/C
Bike Setup:
All XT, Chris King headset, Thomson stem/post, Fox RLC 140, RP23, Easton Havoc wheelset, WTB tires, Fizik saddle
Bottom Line:
This review is for an '08 BLT1. This is an excellent bike and it lives up to the hype. It simply owns anything technical or uphill and it's at it's best ripping through tight wooded singletrack trails.
I notice some suspension movement when I'm out of the saddle climbing, but the real wheel stays glued to the trail during the climb. I could probably lesson the movement buy upping the shock air pressure and using the 3 position on the ProPedal. I wouldn't hold this against the bike because you could tune the suspension to be as stiff or plush as you want. I choose to run it more on the plush side.
The only thing I had difficulty with was the sizing. I'm 6'0" and I'm right in the middle of the LG range of the Santa Cruz sizing charts. Like others, I initially found the cockpit to be too tight for what I'm used to. I'm using a 110mm stem and my seat is about as far back as I'm willing to mount it on the seatpost. I really considered getting a setback post, but the more I ride it the more I'm adjusting to the fit. I think it's just different from my other bike which had a really long wheelbase. It's growing on me. I'm finally convinced I did get the right frame size, but the jury's still out on whether or not I need a setback seatpost.
Kudos to Colorado Cyclist for a killer deal. When the BLT2 came out they seriously discounted the BLT1s they had left. When you add in their discount for combining a framset with a buildkit and their 25% discount for adding a fork it ends up being an awesome deal. $2700 delivered to my door. I just don't see how I could pass up a deal like that on a bike this good.
All in all, the BLT1 is a great all around bike. You could tune the suspension for whatever you ride and be extremely satisfied. If you can still find a leftover BLT1, BUY IT! Don't worry that it's not the latest and greatest. In it's day it was arguably THE bike to have. Just because they came out with a newer version doesn't mean the original BLT1 is no longer a wonderful bike. The BLT2 may be better, but I doubt if it's $1000 better. If money is burning that big a hole in your pocket just pony up an extra $1500 over a BLT1 and get the new carbon BLT. That would probably be worth the extra cash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nnosek@excite.com
a Weekend Warrior
from laguna niguel Date Reviewed: April 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
anything with flow
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Helens
Strengths:
Great handling, efficient climber, light weight
Weaknesses:
OE stem and handlebars
Similar Products Used:
GT, ellsworth, schwinn(by yeti)
Bike Setup:
Fox float RLC, X9, RP23, gravity dropper adjustable seatpost, thomson stem and monkeylite carbon 27" bars
Bottom Line:
Best bike ever- sure there is more and smoother travel out there but the bike has amazing control/stability in any position.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alfonso17
a Racer
from Barcelona, Spain Date Reviewed: April 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Collserola
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Strengths:
The Blur LT is a really handle bike. The geometry is just perfect for almost any kind of riding, from a cross country light cruise to a tough enduro trail. Easy for pedalling with no pollution, and reliable for steep, technical both down or uphilling.
Weaknesses:
The VPP works well and it's a significant value, but after some months of intense riding, the rear triangle can make noises due to the lack of lubrication in the pivots. Because of that, the VPP system needs some manteinance that you don't need with any other Santa Cruz.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler'99
Haro Shift 7.0
Kona Stab, Manomano.
Bike Setup:
Fox RP23, Pike U-Turn, Race Face cranks, Shimano XT, Thompson, Easton.
Bottom Line:
The Blur LT offers the best of the classic line of the Santa Cruz, added with a major technological step like the VPP. As a result, the bike makes the best experience of riding that I had.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
crappermd
a Weekend Warrior
from San Luis Obispo, CA USA Date Reviewed: March 14, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Any trail with dirt
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
The frame geometry is very good and the bike handles incredibly well. The bike frame is of highest quality. The VPP has no pedal bob, really good engineering
Weaknesses:
The bike gets a little pedal feedback when hitting bumps at times, but It's not a weakness but something to get used to
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, Trek Fuel, Mountain cycle zen
Bike Setup:
Fox 140 RLC up front, fox RP23 in back, x9 shifters, xt crank, ultimate brakes, easton xc one wheelset
Bottom Line:
The bike handles like no other bike I've ever ridden. The bike uses its rear travel fairly linearly. I used to have a stumpjumper but it went through its travel way to fast. Needless to say that I sold the stumpy after riding the LT. The LT is more bike for me which is how I like it, Its fun to be in the process of trying to tame the LT. Buy this bike, I wasted to much money buying a stumpjumper, fuel, zen searching for a good all around bike, the LT left me searching no more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BLURPILOT
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Aliso/Whiting/STT-Luge/Backbone
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Switchback Cyclery
Strengths:
Excellent all-arounder. Great handling ride- rips technical descents, twisty singletrack while being a great climber. VPP suspension rocks. Made in the USA frame with excellent build quality. Plus, great customer service by Santa Cruz.
Fox Talas 32 RLC fork and RP 3 custom tuned shock with high capacity canister; 2008 Shimano XTR derailluers, shifters, pedals; RaceFace Deus XC cranks/rings/bottom bracket; SRAM PG 990 cassette and PC 991 Hollopin chain; RaceFace Next SL Carbon riser bar; OURY ODI Lock-ons; Thomson Elite stem and seatpost; Selle Italia SLR Gel Flow saddle; Avid Elixir CR brakeset; Maxxis UST tires- 2.35 High Roller front with Larsen TT 2.0 rear; Chris King ISO wheelset with DT Swiss Supercomp spokes laced to Mavic X819 rims; Chris King headset.
Bottom Line:
The best all-around XC trailbike ever,IMHO. If you are undecided about which 5.5" trailbike to get, just buy a Blur LT. mtbr.com Best Of Award Winner-- that pretty much says it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slipry
a Cross Country Rider
from Dayton Ohio USA Date Reviewed: December 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
MOMBA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
EBay
Strengths:
Light, good balance, steers accurately, quick in twisters and on straightaways! Climbs like a mountain goat!
Weaknesses:
None found yet.
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback hard-tail
Bike Setup:
Magura front fork, hydraulic brakes & wheels Fox RP23 rear shock, FSA carbon crankset, Syntace carbon seatpost & handlebars.
Bottom Line:
It is a great bike and I got a screamin' deal! The bike came with a few problems that the seller was good enough to reimburse me for. I had purchased and ridden a couple of inexpensive hardtails for the past 2 seasons and although I enjoyed riding them, there's no comparison with this, my first serious mountain bike! I went from back in the pack to the front with the group I ride with. Rocky, technical stuff I used to have trouble with has gotten much easier with the Blur LT. It is light, quick, and responsive! Most of my riding is fast XC single-track with some technical climbs. I'd recommend this bike to anyone who wants to dramatically improve their riding! Good equipment makes a word of difference! My thanks to this website and all of the reviewers who helped me make a great decision when I was looking for a new bike! I can't wait for warm weather and better trail conditions!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CEB
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: November 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Spur Meadow
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Direct from Santa Cr
Strengths:
What a SMOOTH ride! Absorbs all the big and small hits. A very balanced and solid feel.
Weaknesses:
Doesn't have a built in sirus radio....... serious.........
Similar Products Used:
1996 Catamount MFS, 2004 Santa Cruz Blur Classic
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla R 140 (PUSHED) Fox Float rear (PUSHED), all XTR, MAVIC X517. Thomson Stem & relaxed seatpost. SDG saddle.
Bottom Line:
It seems to me the LT is the result of the evolution of the BLUR from customer reviews and complaints as well as real time testing. I can't see anyone buying an XC or Classic. The LT is the way a BLUR should be.
This is a replacement frame from my 2004 Blur Classic. After MANY MANY hard beating miles over the 4 years 10 months owned, the frame finally snapped on the top tube, one inch behind the headtube (under the gusset). With SC's original owner no fault frame replacement program, I opted for the LT. What an upgrade an LT really is. This is a VERY different bike than the Blur I used to ride no doubt. That additional inch of travel makes a huge difference. If you are a BLUR owner, and looking to upgrade to something a bit more "all mountain", the LT is for you! Today I rode a trail I have just about memorized, I know every undulation. I could ride this trail much better with the LT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
weldo
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Junction, Co Date Reviewed: October 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
any and all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Grassroots Cycles
Strengths:
great climber and descender, solid feel and stiff overall
Weaknesses:
well, I will start with the headbadge peeling off before it hit the trail, next the powdercoat sucks, chain suck and chain slap - took out a mucho links , still dealing with chain slap...santa cruz finish work needs an overhaul..dented the downtube above the bb...sux, but o-well...still rides schweeet
Similar Products Used:
misc other duallys
Bike Setup:
AMR kit - swapped to a king headset , took off the wimpy wheels - DT 1750's ft and rear , saddle swap, smallblock 8 rear 2.35 and WTB 2.55 weirwolf LT front
Bottom Line:
this bike rips..from cross country riding to all day epic rides..and the bike park with a shorter stem, flat pedals -it does it all well...
only 4 chilis because Santa Cruz need to put in some extra
effort on the finish work
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joveylee
a Weekend Warrior
from Malaysia Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
http://www.bikehash.freeservers.com/
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
(Frame only) Malaysi
Strengths:
Its a Stallion ! Strong build, and geometry fits me naturally. XL size frame with RP23 suspension weights only 3KG. Its 1KG heavier than my previous 19" hard tail frame. But i do not feel the weight when riding, especially uphill. As compared to hard tail, I can now pedal smoothly even on uneven road.
Weaknesses:
Seat post diameter is not common with bikes that i know. Although its an excellent bike, and good things dont come cheap. I wish i could have been more affordable for many.
Similar Products Used:
Da Bomb Tora Bora 19" hard tail
Bike Setup:
Shimano + SRAM + Truvative + FSA. Transferred from my Da Bomb.
Recently bought new Suntour Epicon (remote adjustable 180-120mm), Air + Hydrolic suspension. Fits perfectly well. Yet to test offroad. 40% of Fox Talas cost. Hope it performs decently.
Bottom Line:
Quick Facts about rider:
- 105 KG gorilla
- 6'1" height
For the first time i feel "naturally" seated on a bike.
The frame handles well, from downhill and uphill. Very
stable. The pro-pedal from Fox RP23 is excellent. I have
a regular trail, I can now ride up the hill easier than
previous bike (same components, just different frame).
Well, i must also admit my stamina builds up everytime
riding since i started last 3 months.
If you are big, tall and potentially handsome, buy LT :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scampscamp
a Weekend Warrior
from Delmar, NY, USA Date Reviewed: October 7, 2008
Favorite Trail:
SMBA [Saratoga]
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Purchased At:
Berkshire Bike and B
Strengths:
Awesome bike with a pretty good groupset. The suspension soaks up the trail great but it still climbs well too. What I will say is that I am glad that I upgraded to the adjustable talas. I'm not the best climber and always reduce the travel for extended climbing. With it fully open I can't climb too well at all. Best upgrade ever over the float fork if you can afford it.
Weaknesses:
Haven't figured out any yet. The hub/pawls have loosened a little but that's not Santa cruz, that's shimano. I could probably reduce the rear rotor to a 6 inch, 7 is a little overkill for me. Expensive, but what price do we place on our hobbies? When your girlfriend and her parents are encouraging you to spend the money [and they don't ride at all] you have to go with the flow. You only live once.
Similar Products Used:
Had a Kona the King until the frame broke, replaced with a Kona Kikapu. That's pretty good but there is a clear and OBVIOUS difference between the four/faux bar linkage suspension system and a DW/VPP style of suspension. There's a lot of hype out there but through my experience, DW/VPP or whatever the cool kids are calling it nowadays blows the older suspension systems away. For those of you who disagree, you'll notice that Turner has now moved to a DW style linkage too.
Also have Tomac buckshot but can't find a hanger to fit it for love nor money. Thinking of getting a Banshee viento frame to swap parts over.
Wish i had bought this bike the day my kona broke instead of wasting 2 months of the summer umming and ahhing about whether to buy it or not.
Ended up buying it the day i got my Kona replacement frame back anyway. God I wasted half the summer, idiot!
Also i tested a Pivot Mach 5, Felt Compulsion and Titus Motolite at the same time.
Felt has way too many pivot points/bearing points. Motolite did not compare.
The pivot mach 5 rocked too and I would have considered buying it but it was ~$1500 more expensive and the frame is made by giant [as is the SC Blur]. Maybe next time.
Who should buy this bike? Aggressive trail riders/light all mountain riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
markrods
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Canada Date Reviewed: September 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
glen major
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1199.00
Purchased At:
ebay nomade20000
Strengths:
Amazing climber
5.3" of travel
Great decender
Fox DHX 5.0 air highly adjustable
Weaknesses:
Was missing the head badge and paint had a very slight smudge when I receieved the frame. Perhaps that's why I paid $1,199 cdn. No worries, I installed a head badge and it's all good.
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC air, Giant atx 970, Specialized fsr,
Bike Setup:
XTR pretty much all around, with Race Face Duec XC Crank bros Acid pedals, Mavic 717 w/DT Swiss hubs, Easton Carbon low rise, Race Face 100MM stem w/6 deg rise,fox vanilla rlc fork. 26.3 lbs.
Bottom Line:
This is an amazing trail bike that climbs really well, and can handle high speed root and rock decents with no problems.
I came off of a Giant AC Air Lite @ 29.5 lbs. Great at decents, but harder to climb with than the Blur.
I fly with hills that used to kill me. It made that much of a difference. VPP and stable platform shocks are a good combo.
Buy one and have fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kiwijames
a Racer
from Lafayette, CA Date Reviewed: September 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Joaquin Miller Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3445.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
It does everything I ask of it w/o any hesitation on my part :-) It's a stout ride that can handle a huge range of riding terrain and you can get it under 29LBS no problem with 5.5 inch travel at both ends. Serviceable lower linkage pivots with zerk fittings and a grease gun with grease supplied. STIFF!!!!! No sign of flex period. VPP is king.
Weaknesses:
XO Trigger shifters lost gears on the fourth ride, SRAM's issue not SC. Cockpit seems short at first.
Black Med LT2, Joplin remote, Talas 32 RLC, Race Face Deus XC, XO Shifters, XO RD, XT FD, Easton Havocs, Kenda Nevegals, FSA XO 150, FSA SLK riser, Juicy Carbons, North Shore ODI grips.
Bottom Line:
First off Colorado Cyclist gave me a screaming deal on the 2008 display bike..saved huge ($1200), kudos to them! I'm so stoked on this bike even though it took a bit of time to get used to the upright seating position. Reality is that 5 inch has become the "standard" for Trail/XC ride/race. For the 4 LBS in equipment I added on when this replaced my Scott Spark, I overcame it with the RP23 Pro-pedal and the Lt2's climbing and descending ability. I get the XC config at 100-120mm for climbing and the technical tight single track and when coming down the other side at speed, it's 140 and Pro-Pedal OFF. The bike will inspire confidence in any rider whether your a seasoned trail mongrel or new to longer travel rigs, the trails and obstacles that you've hesitated on before will all become faint memories. If your considering a 4.5-5.5 inch you owe it to yourself to put a Blur LT2 on the list of bikes to Demo.
Can't wait to get this into a 12-24 race before Winter!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kjellterskelter
a Weekend Warrior
from Central Point, Or. USA Date Reviewed: September 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Wagner Watershed
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Private Seller
Strengths:
Great climber, confidence inspiring descender.
Weaknesses:
Mine is a little noisy. Sounds like the bushings in the suspension are a tad creaky??? easy to get over it though.
Similar Products Used:
Kona King Kikapu, Kona Stinky, GF Hi Fi.
Bike Setup:
Revalation fork,RP23 shock, xt drivetrain, noir cranks, Nevegal front and rear.
Bottom Line:
Believe the hype! This bike inspires me to get out and ride more, it has helped develop me as a rider, because you feel confident that it will handle whatever you throw at it(except for serious DH stuff)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kramersdad
a Cross Country Rider
from Kelowna, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: September 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Keystone Standard Basin Trail, Fred/Skull trails, Holy Pail Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath, Kelowna,
Strengths:
Climbs amazingly well, very stable at speed downhill, nice standover height, very efficient suspension, nicely- shifting XT. A great do-everything bike that thrives the more you demand of it and makes you want to ride more often.
Need a dozen more hard rides on this bike to really get to appreciate its capabilities. It lives up to the hype and price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pakdoc
a Weekend Warrior
from Mountain Brook, AL USA Date Reviewed: August 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Red BUMP Oak Mnt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
SpeedGoat.com
Strengths:
Smooth quiet links, grease fittings, light, durable, laterally stiff and fast for 5+inches, a good looking bike.
Weaknesses:
tight cockpit(5'10" on a Med), more upright positioning, grease fittings not threaded but pressed and can get clogged with debris.(need to cap), Fox RP23 "wheezes" with PP off.
Med ANO BLK BLT2 with Fox RP23 '09,RaceFace Next bar/seat post, Dues X-type Crankset,SRAM XO shift/rearD, XTR FD, X819's with CK Isodiscs, 2.3 UST HighRollers, Juicy 7's 7"/6", Nixon 145 Super Air Plus "devolved" 20mm TA
Bottom Line:
You can build this bike @26-27lbs easily but still not as fast as xc b/c you will want to run bigger tires and more sag to use the "fun factor" aspect of this bike. Had to remove hs spacers and may go with a setback seatpost if needed as I am not use to the upright position. Started with a Thompson but switch to a less straight post...better, stem at 90mm and might go 100mm. Suspension has been a little trial and error as well but may settle on SC's rec. psi for the rear and since modifications of Nixon to "devolve" and adding Enduro seals, liking it more and more. I think most will be real happy with the bike but you will need to give it a couple of months to dial in everything unless coming off a BLT1. If you are boarderline on the size...move up if you like a shorter stem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
StraightBlur
a Downhiller
from Auburn Hills, MI Date Reviewed: August 19, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Pontac Lake for XC, Bloomer for FR
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5500.00
Purchased At:
KLM Bikes
Strengths:
Plush, Plush, Plush on XC trails, off 6 foot drops, or catching 15ft. of air off dirt jumps. Very stiff and ultra responsive handling on the single track. Light enough to climb about anything climbable. (is that a word?)
Weaknesses:
Price, but worth every penny. A bit heavy for XC racing, but the bike doesn't go well with spandex anyway.
Similar Products Used:
Blur Classic, Blur XC, Nomad
Bike Setup:
Black Ano Blur LT2 XO AM
REAR DER - SRAM X0 long cage
FRONT DER - Shimano M970 (XTR)
SHIFTERS - SRAM X0 triggers
CRANKSET - TruVativ Noir
CASSETTE - SRAM PG 990, 11-34
CHAIN - SRAM PC 991
BRAKES - Avid Ultimates w/ 185mm rotors
BRAKE LEVERS - Avid Ultimate
BARS - Race Face Atlas low riser
STEM - Thomson, 31.8mm
GRIPS - Lizard Skin lock on
HEADSET - Hope (color - gold)
SEAT POST - Thompson Elite 30.9
QUICK RELEASE - Hope (color - gold)
SADDLE - WTB Pure V Stealth
WHEELS - DT 5.1d rims laced to DT 240s hubs w/ DT 14/15 spokes, alloy nipples
TIRES - Kenda Nevegal 2.1 folding
TUBES - Kenda Freeride
REAR SHOCK - Fox Float RP23
FORK - Fox 36 Talas RC2 QR20
PEDALS - Crankbros Mallet 3 (color- gold)
Bottom Line:
The best all around bike I have ever ridden. I am a light 140lbs. so I can get away with the rp23 and Talas 36 for fairly big hits. A heavier rider may want to go with the dhx 5.0 if doing larger drops. Anyone over 200lbs. I would recommend the same set-up on a Nomad or Heckler for anything more than All Mountain riding. I would definitely recommend this bike to anyone who wants to shred single track. For the lighter riders, this is plenty of bike for big dirt jumps, 15ft. drops, and DH riding with the right build. Eventhough the bike can be built for a 26lb. XC machine, it would seem like a waste of travel. I would say no to spandex for this P1mp ride. Peace.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Loll
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2899.00
Purchased At:
Passion Trail Bike
Strengths:
Climbing Technical hills, All mountain~ish riding,
Weaknesses:
Long fireroad, super technical decent that req'd much body english, Tail-whipping oriented mid air moves
Similar Products Used:
Bullit, Giant AC-1, Intense 5.5 FRO (Demo), Specialized full line of S-work,trail, and enduro bikes (Demo)
Bike Setup:
R-AM kit
Major change is a Fox Van 36 upfront
Some other parts to keep the weight down to 31 pounds
Bottom Line:
This is for a review of the BLT2, aka the new BLT.
After coming from 2.5 yrs of riding a Bullit, and another 4 months on a Single speed while waiting for this bike, I think the BLT2 is happy in the middle. Neither does it give me the all out feel when decending or DJ-ing from the bullit, nor does it climb as good as a hardtail. But the bike answered to what I was lacking for a long time. A bike that can ride most trails, but can still be good enough to take on a few long road rides when dirt time is not available.
I initially gives it a B, but after really reviewing other comments on the Santa Cruz forum, I think I discovered the strength of this bike is at technical climbs. For other uphills, take your hardtail instead. On the decents, I found that I need to be a bit cautious over the rock gardens, then and only then, I carefully let it go. Haven't taken the BLT2 to FR yet.
So far I found table topping and tail whips a bit hard. I tried the Intense FRO during Sea Otter and found this cousin of BLT a bit easier to whip around. However, if you launch it straight on, it is surprisingly great.
My shop had the bike set up with Van36 and a few extra stem spacers. With the steering this high, I found myself hucking alot of the ledges at the local jump parks, instead of launching off the lips. It jumps decently. I think I give this area about a B+. I dont feel as comfortable taking this bike to the doubles like the old bullit I had.
Wheelies were pretty easy, again with the high setup I have.
Somehow, on the really technical decents, I found it not as easy to move around on the bike. I rode my buddy's Ventana during part of the downhill and found that compare to the BLT, the Ventana had much more room to move around. May be I am not getting used to the geometry yet. Again, I felt better on the bullit.
But not too many bikes out there can go hard overall on the trails on Saturday, and be great on the road on Sunday.
Time will tell. I have only had the bike for about a month.
One thing is true though, never in a long time had I enjoy riding a bike so much overall. I found myself wanting to sneak morning rides in before work. When I was on the bullit, I dreaded the bike path and uphills, while on the single speed, I enjoy the uphills and simplicity, but cannot pedal distance efficiently. Perhaps the BLT2 is the answer. So far so good.
BTW, I got a heck of an amazing deal on it. 2008 pricing before the increase, plus 10% shop annual sale discount. On top of that, my shop worked with me to switch out parts I dont like and install parts I already have.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tdeeds
a Weekend Warrior
from Simi Valley, Ca Date Reviewed: June 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Peak/Chumash Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Cycle World in Resed
Strengths:
VPP, stable platform, plush suspension, very good on climbs, great downhill bike, Santa Cruz Bikes Co.
Weaknesses:
High maintenance
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS 2000, Tested Specialized Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
RP23 Shock, Fox Float 32 RLC fork, DT Swiss rims, Shimano XT components, Kenda Nevegal 2.35 tires, Race Face handelbars and stem
Bottom Line:
The Blur LT is a great all-around, do-everything bike. While climbing there is very little bobb with the Fox suspension, which makes for a very smooth, efficient ride. The short cockpit puts you in a more upright position, which felt a bit unusual at first, but after a few rides I got used to it. Because of the bike's suspension and geometry, I have become much faster on the climbs.
You realize the value of this bike on the downhills. I find that it performs best on tight singletracks and rough, rocky descents. It can handle just about anything you throw at it. I rode Porcupine Rim twice and the bike handeled wonderfully.
I'm not really sure why this bike is in the XC category. I feel it should be in the All Mountain category because of the way it handles and the fact it has nearly 6 inches of travel. Either way, it's a fantastic bike and I highly recommend it. I'm waiting to read the reviews on the newly designed Blur LT.
Santa Cruz Bikes has been OUTSTANDING!. I've called several times inquiring about parts and service. They have always been very responsive and have done a great job answering questions and shipping replacement parts. I want to say a special thanks to Tim in the Parts Department. Keep up the good work guys!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jchap30
a Weekend Warrior
from El Dorado Hills Date Reviewed: June 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Big Boulder, Paully Creek, Lloyds, Manzanita trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Frame only from CBE
Strengths:
Climber, Excellant trail rider and plush when it goes DH. This is the best "all around" bike built. Fast on the XC, excellant tranfer of energy and can slap on the fat tires for some DH action.
Weaknesses:
Just having to do seasonal maintence, but it's not really an issue.
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC, Intense VPP, Iron Hourse, Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
Marz Z-1 thru axle 130,Sram XO, Avid Juicy carbon, King hubs/headset, XTR bottom braket/crank, differing tires depending on terrain.
Bottom Line:
I stomped first downieville pass of the season last thursday with michellin 2.5's on this "classic BLT" that in all seriousness is perfect for Downieville, as I blew passed a few dudes on nomads with huge tires and Fox 40's. I rode straight to Yuba expeditions knowing they had the new BLT2 in stock for rentals, peddled around the town and did some curb ollies, not impressed. It felt exactly the same and maybe it was not set for my personal tweeks, but that linear feel SC describes reminds me of their single pivot offerings. I won't be changing frames anytime soon.
But also when I rode my local XC trail (salmon falls) with lighter tires -WTB's 2.4 mutano raptors the bike reminded me how much I love its abilties to accelerate for quick climbing needs but also it climbs so well when seated and just spinnging circles which in all honesty is the week link in my personal riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Lake Tahoe, CA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Prizma, Hole in the Ground, Flume Mnt Hood, OR area
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
C/L
Strengths:
Great balanced bike, plush stable, climbs and desends well slow speed and high speed. Fairly light, good build. Good re sale,nice clean simple graphics.
Weaknesses:
To expensive, frames are small. Test size before you buy.
XTR cranks, Thompson stem, post Race Face oversize carbon bar, 32mm Talas, Juicy 7 disk brakes, Mavic wheel set, Sram XO shifters and derailure, Time peddals, Navagels 2.35 and 2.1 rear Fisk seat
Bottom Line:
Hi,
The Blur LT is a great balanced bike one of the best all mountain trail bikes and a great one bike quiver. I had a Blur XC and didn't like it. I then purchased a Giant Trance that I preferred to the Blur XC. I also bought a Giant Reign great bike. This season I wanted to simplify and I'm selling the Trance and Reign and keeping the Blur LT. It's sort of in the middle of both bikes. The Blur may be a little better than the Giants but not by much. If your into Bling names you may think the Santa Cruz is superior but it isn't. The Blur LT is a perfect one bike to have in rocky areas with lots of climbs like Colorado, BC and Idaho. I live in Tahoe and we ride from 5500 feet elev to 9000 elev in rocky silty terrain. I'm 6 foot 195lbs and I need the XL size the large is way to small for me, yes I have a short 30-31" inseam and long torso long arms wide sholders, APE like in design :-)). My old Blur was a XL as well I tested both sizes via renal bikes for a few days. The XL fits me perfect and I think it would be to small for a guy 6 3" so do yourself a favor and test ride prior to buying. I think Santa Cruz's sizing charts are off, Giants are the same, Trek and Specialized and Fisher are correct. My bike weighs 28 3/4 lbs pretty light for a 5" travel bike, one pound less than my 6" travel Giant Reign with this build; Frame size XL Fox 32mm Talas, light Mavic wheels, XTR cranks Race Face carbon bars, Juicy 7s Time pedals XO shifters and Navegels. The LT climbs a tiny bit better and is better in the tight technical stuff, but the Reign is more stable and slightly better on fast descents. They're both great bikes. If your on a tight budget buy the very nice Giant Trance XO prbably better than the LT or Reign if you want a light great climbing 6" travel bike. If you work hard and want a bit more custom build and a little Bling buy the Santa Cruz. I raced Motocross and Enduros in New England for years and raced a few XC mountain bike races and did Tris for a year years. Just trying to explain I know alot about wrenching, geometry, build quality, suspension set up and frame design. If you have the cash and want a nice bike buy the Blur LT. I wouldn't buy a 2008 Blur LT 2 unless you have lots of $$ and money isnt an issue. Sure the older BLUR LT may need slightly more maintaince, big deal replace the bearings once a year vs every two years. The bikes will climb and descend just about the same and you will save $1000 on the frame, you can get great deals on new 2008 standard LT frames. I bought my new 2008 LT black Ano frame for $900. You will spend $2000 for a LT 2 frame, yes it's a beautiful bike. I would save $$ and take your wife or girl friend on a nice mountain bike trip to BC or Tahoe and have an epic trip.
Cheers
Dave
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Lake Tahoe, CA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Prizma, Hole in the Ground, Flume Mnt Hood, OR area
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
C/L
Strengths:
Great balanced bike, plush stable, climbs and desends well slow speed and high speed. Fairly light, good build. Good re sale,nice clean simple graphics.
Weaknesses:
To expensive, frames are small. Test size before you buy.
XTR cranks, Thompson stem, post Race Face oversize carbon bar, 32mm Talas, Juicy 7 disk brakes, Mavic wheel set, Sram XO shifters and derailure, Time peddals, Navagels 2.35 and 2.1 rear Fisk seat
Bottom Line:
Hi,
The Blur LT is a great balanced bike one of the best all mountain trail bikes and a great one bike quiver. I had a Blur XC and didn't like it. I then purchased a Giant Trance that I preferred to the Blur XC. I also bought a Giant Reign great bike. This season I wanted to simplify and I'm selling the Trance and Reign and keeping the Blur LT. It's sort of in the middle of both bikes. The Blur may be a little better than the Giants but not by much. If your into Bling names you may think the Santa Cruz is superior but it isn't. The Blur LT is a perfect one bike to have in rocky areas with lots of climbs like Colorado, BC and Idaho. I live in Tahoe and we ride from 5500 feet elev to 9000 elev in rocky silty terrain. I'm 6 foot 195lbs and I need the XL size the large is way to small for me, yes I have a short 30-31" inseam and long torso long arms wide sholders, APE like in design :-)). My old Blur was a XL as well I tested both sizes via renal bikes for a few days. The XL fits me perfect and I think it would be to small for a guy 6 3" so do yourself a favor and test ride prior to buying. I think Santa Cruz's sizing charts are off, Giants are the same, Trek and Specialized and Fisher are correct. My bike weighs 28 3/4 lbs pretty light for a 5" travel bike, one pound less than my 6" travel Giant Reign with this build; Frame size XL Fox 32mm Talas, light Mavic wheels, XTR cranks Race Face carbon bars, Juicy 7s Time pedals XO shifters and Navegels. The LT climbs a tiny bit better and is better in the tight technical stuff, but the Reign is more stable and slightly better on fast descents. They're both great bikes. If your on a tight budget buy the very nice Giant Trance XO prbably better than the LT or Reign if you want a light great climbing 6" travel bike. If you work hard and want a bit more custom build and a little Bling buy the Santa Cruz. I raced Motocross and Enduros in New England for years and raced a few XC mountain bike races and did Tris for a year years. Just trying to explain I know alot about wrenching, geometry, build quality, suspension set up and frame design. If you have the cash and want a nice bike buy the Blur LT. I wouldn't buy a 2008 Blur LT 2 unless you have lots of $$ and money isnt an issue. Sure the older BLUR LT may need slightly more maintaince, big deal replace the bearings once a year vs every two years. The bikes will climb and descend just about the same and you will save $1000 on the frame, you can get great deals on new 2008 standard LT frames. I bought my new 2008 LT black Ano frame for $900. You will spend $2000 for a LT 2 frame, yes it's a beautiful bike. I would save $$ and take your wife or girl friend on a nice mountain bike trip to BC or Tahoe and have an epic trip.
Cheers
Dave
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Armstrong
a Cross Country Rider
from Wakefield, quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: May 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
cockpunch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
built it off pinkbike
Strengths:
Suspension design.
Weaknesses:
chainstay length a bit long. Chain suck.
Bike Setup:
High end Fox/xtr.
Bottom Line:
Amazing pedaling bike. I wanted more travel without sacrificing climbing efficency. It still climbs as good as my M4 but i had to flip over my stem to bring me more over the bars. Mine ways 28lb with a 140mm vanilla rlc and 2.1" nevegals. Downhill's very well but this is a climbing bike with long legs. VPP* has no pedal bob. Super fun bike. I put every single part on this bike, set it up and had no problems with anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, CANADA Date Reviewed: April 11, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Strengths:
Frame geometry, VPP, stiffness, responsiveness,
Weaknesses:
Make sure to check the pivot points within the first month, mine loosened... very bad.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth, GT i-drive, SC juliana (friends bike), first full suspension I've owned.
Bike Setup:
XT derailers, shifters, cranks, old KORE elite stem, WTB saddle, Thompson post, avid juicy seven 6" brakes, dt wheels, Fox talas 36 up front fox rp 23 in the back, kenda nevegal rubber. Crank brothers mallet pedals
Bottom Line:
The fox suspension is beautiful and matches the geometry of the bike to a T. This bike handles ANYTHING you throw at it. Downhill course in Canmore Alberta "the Redeamer". Long epic 6 hour cross country trails through the rocky mountains. Ups, downs, 6' drops to flat ground. It loves it all. I've had it out in the mud and sand and clay and snow. You seem to have endless travel and it is great in tight technical roots and rocks. Gives you the confidence of a 8" downhill beast but handles like my old 21 pound solid aluminum hardtail... only it climbs much better. I kept my last bike for 15 years, I hope this will survive the test of time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derek Fray
a Cross Country Rider
from Thousand Oaks, Ca Date Reviewed: March 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Guadalasca, Sycamore Canyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Cycology, Sherman Oaks, Ca
Strengths:
The most plush, stable, solid, bike I have ever ridden. Instills an unusual sense of confidence when bombing down big hills. Climbs like a goat. Handles well at high speeds and at walking speed. So far,(after 1 year the bike has been virtually maintenance free.
Weaknesses:
Very little to complain about.. The rear suspension arm was creaking and made me a little nervous, but after a quick check with an allen wrench, I discovered the shop who assembled the bike left almost every bolt loose. Since I tightened them, no more creaking. I have not experienced any bearing issues.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar 3+, Cannondale Super V 900, Ellsworth Epiphany
Bike Setup:
SRAM 9X shifters, deraileurs, chain and cluster, Ativ cranks, Fox RP23 rear shock, Fox Float RLC 130 fork, Juicy Seven brakes, DT Swiss 340 hubs, Mavic 321 rims with Kenda Nevegal front and rear tires (they came with the bike)
Bottom Line:
I ride a whole lot and this bike kicks some serious A$$. Smooth as silk on the downhill runs, infinitely adjustable suspension including lockout if that's your thing. Absolutely zero pedal bob and when you get the suspension dialed in to your weight, it rides like a dream (I'm 225+ and the bike handles my ample size flawlessly). The feeling you get from this ride is pure confidence and stability. I find myself looking for something to bounce off of or over on the way down the hills. Climbs almost like a hard tail and rides very light. This bike is certainly not for beginners (it would spoil them)it is designed for serious riders who really use their equipment.. I have beat up this bike on trials all over Southern California and I can't wait for my next ride. The frame and overall feel of the bike is quality all the way. This bike should be on your list of top 3 choices in the all mountain class.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vince
a Cross Country Rider
from Eugene, Oregon, USA Date Reviewed: February 24, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Paul's Bicycle Way of Life
Strengths:
Climbs better than any hardtail. Stiff solid feeing frame. Super efficient yet plush suspension is so good you don't even notice it's working. Back end feels like there are little rockets pushing your rear tire on the ground. Really takes the edge off without sucking power away.
Weaknesses:
Steep price. Complex suspension needs regular maintenance to work right. Not too great as a wet winter bike. Given the handling characteristics and price I would say this is not a beginners bike.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose Amplifier(the older high end XC FS bike), 2008 Trek Fuel EX-8, 89 specialized Stumpjuumper, 92 specialized hard rock, 94 specialized Stumpjumper, 03 specialized hard rock.
Bike Setup:
07 Blur LT, LX/XT mix, fox RP23, rock shox revolution 426 fork
Bottom Line:
Amazing bike rides like a dream. There is so much grip from the rear VPP suspension. Suspension remains active wile peddling over huge rocks or hard on the breaks. You can set the VPP so soft that it cancels out even normal pavement chatter and the dammed thing still dose not bob! Turn on pro pedal and you have a hard trail to hammer with. Not that you even need it though. It really takes a experienced rider to be able to appreciate and use the VPP suspension 100%. This bike likes to be pushed hard up hills and threw corners. This is an ideal bike for epic riders like myself. Really lets a person ride stronger/longer. This is not a newbee bike though. It likes to be ridden very aggressively by an experienced rider. All new riders should spend at least a year on a hard tail learning to ride anyway. The pivots will need to be serviced and replaced often if you ride in very wet conditions. Say 1-2 times a year for racers and once a year for heavy winter riders. (so make sure you've got a good local shop to do the work) Summer riders should get at least a couple of years out of them. It's a very sweet bike. If you've got the money and the love of mountain biking test one out. Tried out a 08 Trek Fuel EX-8 and it was a total joke compared the the Blur LT. Even though the Blur weighted more. It is that good. The fuel would be great for casual riders or flat trails. Alas far out in the mountains king Blur reigns.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bond007Jms
a
from SLC, UT, USA Date Reviewed: February 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Green Valley
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Similar Products Used:
Turner Spot, Santa Cruz Blur LT, Intense 5.5 and 6.6, Yeti 575, Specialized Enduro, Cannondale Prophet MX and 1000
Bottom Line:
This is a review for a 2007 Blur LT.
This is an amazing bike! The geometry, coupled with the suspension design, make this bike. It climbs amazingly and descends just as well if not better (Yes, I am a VPP believer).
I demoed this bike on several trails in Moab. From the first ride, to the last, it was very confidence inspiring. I can honestly say that I hit parts of the trails and cleared obstacles that I never have before (I realize people say that all the time in these review, but it was true for me in this case).
The spec can be whatever you want it to be due to Santa Cruz's build kits. That is a bonus in my opinion. However, Santa Cruz, just like any other boutique brand, is expensive!
So, with my gushing over this bike, why didn't I buy it? Two reasons: 1. The bearings issue (I asked several shops about it and I consistently got the "replace every six to nine months" feedback) An expensive bike just shouldn't have that issue! 2. Customer Service. Again I asked several shops, read the reviews, and I just didn't feel comfortable spending a lot of money on a bike built by a company that has less than acceptable customer service.
So, all that said and done, if I had enough money for a stable of bikes, would this be one of them? Without a doubt, Yes! Of course, if I could own a stable of bikes I wouldn't be worried about bearings or customer service. If you are in search of "the one bike," and have less hesitation about bearings issues and customer service, then this one should be on your short list.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C
a Weekend Warrior
from Lompoc, CA Date Reviewed: January 24, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great Customer Service! Went off a small jump and broke the rear axle of the shock in the middle. Twisted out one bearing and trashed the other three connected to the rear axle. Emailed Santa Cruz about replacement parts for this 3 year old bike. Tim gave me info for that, but said he would warranty replace all the broken parts, if I preferred. I did, of course. Parts were sent immediately and I was back on the trail in time for Christmas. This bike was clearly out of the warranty period...and the maintenance probably wasn't done as it should be, but Santa Cruz came through with the replacement parts anyway. Great all around bike. Keeps up with the cross country set, while allowing you to race in some limited downhill (I'm the limit!) The gravity dropper is great on this bike as it really is a different (i.e. much more stable) bike on the downhill. Keep up the maintenance (including greasing the pivot/shock axles) and the bike hold up well to punishment...even if you never wash it!
Weaknesses:
Me
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Blur
Bike Setup:
Deore XT group, Avid Juicy brakes, GRAVITY DROPPER post, Kenda Nevegal 2.35 tires, gore-tex left forearm cast
Bottom Line:
Great all around bike backed by a company with "above and beyond" customer service in my first direct interaction with them. Great choice if you want a "fun" bike...reasonable cross country performance while still being fun on the downhills. It has the ability to carry you through most of those inevitable lapses in judgment :-).
PS: gore-tex casts are MUCH more comfortable than the plain fiberglass ones!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roy
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco CA Date Reviewed: January 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Santa Cruz... name one.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
???
Strengths:
I am 6-1, and the bike effectively makes me smaller so to speak. It is a large frame, but still feels compact, so it corners like a dream. With the VPP suspension design, and the rp123 shock, the bike almost climbs like a hard tail, but better, cause it will give if you want it to, so a bumpy climb where I would spin out on the hard tail, this stays active and keeps traction. When you get to the twisties, this bike finds its home, it loves the decent! It loves locking into a corner, this bike will make me better, and more bold. I am already hitting things I would have never tries to hit at speed on my old bike. The trails in Santa Cruz county are what this bike was designed for I think, perfect cause that is where I ride.
Weaknesses:
I have found none. I will see what I feel like when it is time for maintenance…
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enuro Comp, Santa Cruz Blur, Kona, and the ever faithful DiamondBack z-Tech (98) that I had loved all those years, now destined to be honorably cast off a cliff to a rocky grave in Moab
Bike Setup:
The basic complete kit set up.. Low end lx componants mostly, but they threw in a Rock Shox fork, RP123 fox shock, Juicy five breaks, LX cranks, mavic rims with great tires, but I forgot what they are called, just check it out at SantaCruzmtb.com
Bottom Line:
Best bike I have ever ridden in 12 years of XC riding. now, who needs to ride a technical line when you can just mash over the top of everything?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Parker Perkins
a Weekend Warrior
from Cary, NC, USA Date Reviewed: January 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Harris, Anglers Ridge
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3195.00
Purchased At:
Spin Cycle
Strengths:
I am riding longer, hitting more logs, downhills than I ever did on my old bike. This bike has elevated my riding and I am trying stuff that would freak out the wife.
Weaknesses:
None so far except for the rider.
Similar Products Used:
1998 Specialized Rockhopper Pro Comp, GF Cake, 2007 GF Procaliber
Bike Setup:
Sram 9, Juicy 7, Fox Fork, Fox RP 23,XT CRANKSET, XT CASSETTE, XTR shifters, Chris King Hubs, Maxxis tires
Bottom Line:
Love this bike, should have bought it earlier this year. Quality item, very well made. Feels solid and inspired me to ride harder and try things that I wouldn't ordinarly try. I am addicted to riding and I have now found the bike for me. It also saved my bacon once or twice. The Spin Cycle in Cary, NC was a great place to buy this from. Very helpful in dialing in my bike and making recomandations.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doug lewis
a Cross Country Rider
from ssf ca usa Date Reviewed: December 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any trail at el corte de madera
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
american cyclery
Strengths:
rippin frame geometry.santa cruz reputation.anodized frame very scratch resistant.6069 aluminum
Weaknesses:
NONE!!!! nothing even close
Similar Products Used:
trek and specialized
Bike Setup:
spx xc kit bike;dt swiss wheels xt components race face bars and stem etc added odi ruffian lock on grips crupi pro square cage pedals eventually i will put on a chris king headset tho i have not had problems with my cane creek s-3
Bottom Line:
far better than expected when i bought it. its hard to tell when you testride on pavement before buying.the bike is happiest hauling ass on trails or whatever dirt,going up or down.very easy to tune suspension.very forgiving throw it into a turn which you are thinking that you are going too fast and the bike pulls it off to your suprise i never need to use the propedal or front fork lockout it does not bob but that may be due to my riding style.some people have a hammer type riding style out of the saddle they may experiece bobbing if they dont use the lockouts but otherwise set it and forget it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yogiwolfman
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO, USA Date Reviewed: November 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Mojos
Strengths:
Stiff, buttery smooth, descends like an anvil and climbs like nothing I've been on.
Weaknesses:
Creaks and the bearings can be a pain to change without the expensive tool SC sells. I can't seem to get rid of pedal bob (I'm big and thing I'd need to invest major $$$ in a Cane Creek Double Barrel shock to get rid of this).
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 90
Bike Setup:
Ano black (bada$$), Juicy 5's, CK Wheelset with Mavic 717 rims, Easton carbon post, Fizik Gobi saddle, XT Shadow Rear der, XTR front der, XT hollowtech cranks, Fox 32 140mm RLC fork, etc, etc.
Bottom Line:
I bought this as a frame (screaming deal) and built it from all the awesome parts I had on my crappy Fuel.
This is more bike than I will ever need, since I prefer flowy singletrack to downhill rock-garden hell. Travel feels bottomless with the rear shock (RP3) set up right. I do have minor pedal bob on flats, but that's only a problem when I stand and mash, which makes my friend laugh at me and my bouncing bike.
My BLT has made my descending so much more confident. I pick a line, my bike says "cool," and the VPP does the rest. Very forgiving, plush and I sometimes feel like I'm cheating on the downhills.
Climbing is great, and I can really feel the rear wheel adhering to the trail. Suspension is still active while pedaling.
The cockpit feels perfect for me and I feel like I have plenty of room to move around and put a little "body English" into turns. No problem lofting a wheel on a technical uphill section.
Whenever I see a Nomad, I drool, but you can find the BLT for around 1500 less than a Nomad. For my buck and what I use it for, going with a Nomad would just be money down the drain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SinRider
a Cross Country Rider
from Jericho VT Date Reviewed: October 23, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
factory
Strengths:
The Classic Blur was sweet - the BLT is magic.
Weaknesses:
Still gets the Santa Creaks, even on the first ride straight from the factory. Nothing that a few dribbles of lube in the crotches won't silence though...
Similar Products Used:
Classic Blur
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla 125RLC front, Fox Vanilla R rear (yep - SC said "our engineers don't recommend a coilover", but it works great - way better than a clunking AVA), Hayes Mag hydraulic brakes, blahblahblah...
Bottom Line:
I beat on my Classic Blur for years and finally broke it below the front derailleur (more common than SC lets on, but they replaced it for a reasonable price - if it happens to you, ABSOLUTELY spring for the BLT rear triangle - otherwise they only replace the front). The overall feel is similar, but they fixed everything the Classic was lacking. It's way stiffer laterally and much more solid and better balanced. Suddenly I'm cornering like Bode on his race skis, uphill and down - it can't be me, so it's gotta be the bike. Absolutely amazing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hainesy
a
from Bangkok Date Reviewed: October 9, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Quality of build, looks (classic), lightness Climbing ability Precision
Weaknesses:
Heard the pivots can require regular maintenance.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose Teocali Elite
Bike Setup:
Fox Float RLC 140mm fork, Fox RP23 shock, XT 2008 groupset, Avid Juicy 7 brakes, Mavic Crossmax ST wheelset, Thomson seatpost, FSA K-Force Carbon riser bar, Ritchey 4Axis Stem, WTB Rocket V Saddle
Bottom Line:
Built this bike at 12Kg = 26.4lbs. Superb for a 5.5" travel bike. Initial rides on agressive singletrack and fast rock strewn fire-roads have made me certain this is an outstanding machine, and very pleased with my purchase and spec. Handling is precise, tight, and responsive. Climbing ability, especially over rocks and roots, is superb - maintains traction through the VPP very well. Can be blasted downhill with absolute confidence. A perfect compromise of XC handling with high speed all mountain stability.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slartiblartfaster
a Cross Country Rider
from Hampshire UK Date Reviewed: October 6, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
The blend of climbing agility and downhill poise; cunning VPP suspension really works; with adjustable forks and Pro-pedal the beast can be set hard for fast XC or full travel for mental Afan-style singletrack downhill - quite a range of operation
Weaknesses:
Definitely high-maintenance, has needed a lot if TLC, shreds drivetrains in winter(but maybe that's the rider), RP3 failed and replaced under (Fox) warranty with RP23 (not SC's fault)
Similar Products Used:
Older GT4000 dually with suspension upgraded to Fox
Bike Setup:
Blur LT with Fox Talas 32 fork, RP23 shock, Hope Mono Mini discs, XT drivetrain and shifters, Thomson stem, easton carbon bars and post, Mavix Crossmax SL wheels with tubeless Michelin XCR ATs
Bottom Line:
Prompted to write this review after recent trip to Afan Argoed in Wales, where gradually increasing bravery (and body armour) finally allowed me to get somewhere near the exalted zone this bike can get you into. Once you've got it set up right, if you let it this does downhill singletrack at mental speeds, smoothing out the most demanding trails.
If you want one bike with the widest range from XC to seriously fast trail-based downhill, one of these properly fettled is still going to be hard to beat. Just accept that it's probably even higher maintenance than your partner, and as other reviewers have said have another bike available for those tantrum days. If you're going to do a lot of the downhill that the bike encourages, consider twin-caliper brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Grooters
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder Date Reviewed: September 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
White Ranch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2450.00
Purchased At:
Sport Garage
Strengths:
Excellent climber. Excellent efficiency. Great balance between weight, travel, and head tube angle. I replaced a traditional Blur with the Blur LT and the difference is remarkable. No more feeling like front tire will slip out, no more feeling like I'm about to Endo. This bike has significantly less pedal inefficiency than the 2003 traditional blur I had. Full 6 months in very dusty conditions and no sqeaking (YAY)
Weaknesses:
Pricy.
Similar Products Used:
Stump Jumber M2, Blur (traditional)
Bike Setup:
Fox Float 140 mm. Juicy 5 brakes, low end everything else. Nevegal 2.35 tires (SUPER awesome and hihgly recommended).
Bottom Line:
Very Very satisfied with this purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grout Boy
a Weekend Warrior
from Ketchum Idaho Date Reviewed: September 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Sturtos
Strengths:
Great all around ride replacing a shorter travel XC bike with ease.
Weaknesses:
It will probably squeak sooner or later.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Element, Specialized Epic
Bike Setup:
Fox Talas RLC, mostly XT
Bottom Line:
I was afraid the bike would be too soft and inefficient for my style of riding because I was used to more of a XC race bike. Not so. It climbs great and is a gas down hill. No more feeling like I could go over the bars at any moment. I've done three short (8 mile) rides so far and it is getting better every time. I'm surprised at how versatile it is. It better work for that much money. It does. I think it could be raced in at least sport class without any real disadvantage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from Mukilteo, WA Date Reviewed: August 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great suspension, solid handling, very versitile, and came with good parts spec's
Weaknesses:
None - Other than it seems to take time to get your ordered bike from Santa Cruz.
Similar Products Used:
Superlight, Klein, Giant
Bike Setup:
XT group, Juicy 7 brakes, DT Swiss wheels, Fox 32 Talas fork, and RP23 rear shock.
Bottom Line:
I rode a Superlight for over 5 years prior to getting this bike, and thought the BLT might be a more capable, well-rounded trail bike, without sacrificing too much of that light and efficient XC feeling. For the most part, that's exactly what it did.
It isn't as snappy under acceleration as the Superlight, but it's suspension is much more capable, and has more stable handling combined with very good trail manners. It isn't heavy or sluggish, but it still is clear this is a trailbike that weights a couple more pounds than the XC oriented Superlight.
The Talas 32 fork is great, the RP23 shock with its various settings works very well, and the part, from Avid brakes to DT Swiss wheels, all work quite well so far with no problems (after 14 or so rides anyway).
Excellent bike for someone wanting more than a XC bike but doesn't want the weight and sluggishness of those longer travel bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David M
a Weekend Warrior
from Springfield, OR Date Reviewed: July 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
Paul's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Climbing is astounding on steeps with the Fox Talas 32 and RP3. The bike has amazing stability and balance and is the tool for slow, technical riding through rocks, roots, stumps, tight switchbacks, ect.. It's great on the steeps and handles moderate drops with ease. It's balance makes riding logs and tight lines easy.
Weaknesses:
When this bike is set up with all the goodies it's a high maintenance machine if you ride it hard in all conditions. After only 13 big rides I encountered the notorious creak which is really distracting on a 12 mile climb. I was very disappointed I had to change the bearing out already. I brush the thing clean, wipe off with a damp rag, no hose or sprayer has every hit the pivots or frame though maybe driving 80 miles an hour through rain had something to do with it? Santa Cruz gives a life time warranty on the bearings though they have to have your old bearings in hand and probably inspect them before they'll send you a new set. No one is going to wait for this process during the riding season so just buy yourself another bearing set when you get this bike, be ready to switch out ASAP when needed and than send your old ones back and let Santa Cruz take their time. This way you always have a good set to go. The XTR cranks takes special tools to take apart and the tools didn't come with the set up so you're kind of a victim in a pinch. You can't mess with the lower pivots on the bike with the cranks in place. My local shop also didn't have the special new tools so make sure your shop has them before you drop your bike off or you're in for a wait. The geometry isn't as slack as you'd expect from an all mountain ride and the LT has about an inch of added chain stay length so you're a bit more pitched forward on the frame than you may be used to if you're coming off of a Blur or Superlight or old school Heckler. Once you adjust it's all good though takes awhile to change the riding style as the front doesn't pop up quite as easy.
Similar Products Used:
Have a Kona Stinky and rode my last old school Heckler (pre-superlight) for 10 years so maybe my adjustment to the new ride is tougher than what most will go through.
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, Talas 32, RP3, Avid juicy 7, tubeless wheels with regular tires and Stan's No Tubes solvent to reduce weight from regular tubeless tires(Tubeless really is amazing technology, the tires are more graby, mold around rocks and roots better and no pinch flats. Go tubeless, it's for real).
Bottom Line:
This is an amazing ride though with all this technology and the pivots below the bottom bracket she's high maintenance and I think you better have a second bike for when this one's in the shop. It's really amazing and does everything extremely well, but you are going to have maintenance issues. I knew this going into it and am happy I made the purchase because when this bike is on it's euphoric. I've been riding and cleaning all steeps and technical riding on all my trails locally. I feel like I'm cheating and there's a part of me that misses the challenge of trying to clean things on my last ride. Though, it's worth it and it's a blast and when it's in the shop I have a blast on my Stinky or hardtail. I'd give it 5 flamers though gotta stick with 4 due to the maintenance issues. It's no great value, it's expensive but what amazing thing isn't.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: July 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Gold Bar to the Portal
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
This beast climbs like a champ. The VPP technology really works and eliminates pedal bob, even when the RP23 suspension setting is wide open. But don't buy this bike for it's climbing capabilities, buy it for the fun you'll have on the descents.
I graduated from a 4 inch FS travel bike, and the extra inch and a half makes a huge difference on the downhill. I'm at least 15% faster.
Overall, I smile a lot more on this bike.
Weaknesses:
I have a 160mm fork on this bike, which has made the front-end feel a little squirrely to me. On tight singletracks, I've locked the suspension down to 130mm, which allows me to hold my line much better. That's more a function of the chopper-like fork than it is the bike.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel, IBEX Apogee XT, Yeti 575.
Bike Setup:
I built up the anodized LT frame with Marzocchi All Mtn 2 fork, XT drivetrain, Avid Juicy 7 brakes, Sun hubs / rims, Easton bars & seatpost, panaracer tires.
Bottom Line:
I admit, I felt buyer's remorse after ordering the frame. I couldn't believe I spent $1700 on a bike frame. That quickly faded after my first ride. This bike is worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dedy simhy
a Racer
from Israel Date Reviewed: July 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Beery
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
wonderfull
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick Yates
a Weekend Warrior
from Congleton, cheshire england Date Reviewed: June 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Marin (north wales)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Strong frame, light enough for cross country use,climbs well, fantastic going down hill at speed, great cornering stabillity, geomitry is spot on.
Weaknesses:
when in the grany ring, the chain catches on underside of frame, chipping the paint work. Other than that nothing
Similar Products Used:
Gary fisher team sugar
Bike Setup:
xtr rear derailleur, xtr front derailleur,xt chain set,xtr dual control shifters and brakes thompson seat post, eastern 50mm stem, bontrager xxx lite bars and bontrager race lite wheels, fox rp3 rear shox (with more air in than advised to stop pedal bob), rock shox revelation dual air uturn forks
Bottom Line:
After riding the sugar for the last year i wanted a bike with more travel, but not much that it would slow me down on the climbs. The LT Does this very well. My mate has got a sugar also and we used to be as quick as each other going down hill. Now im much quicker and i also have more confidence to tackle bigger drop offs, jumps and i am taking corners at much faster speeds. The only problem is to keep enough of the trail in sight before your at it. The 130/5.5" travel is a good all rounder for all mountain, cross country or downhill. Especailly with the rock shox revelation dual air uturn forks that are on it. If i no theres a big climb coming up or im just road riding, i'll wind it down to the 100mm and its climbs and rides like a cross country bike. If you want 1 bike that will do it all then this is the one. I love it and its deffinatly worth the money, compared to the specializeds. get it bought!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank
a Weekend Warrior
from Prescott, Az. Date Reviewed: May 28, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any Sedona singletrack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
bikeangel (an eBay merchant)
Strengths:
This bike is a great confidence builder because it is such a solid feeling bike. I can't believe how much this bike has improved my riding. It climbs easily and flys down hills. High resale value.
Weaknesses:
Stand over height, but what do you expect with five inches of travel?
Similar Products Used:
The bike that I replaced was a K2 Razorback Team.
Bike Setup:
X9 AM set up from Santa Cruz. Fox Float RP23/ Float 32 RLC, Juicy 7 Brakes, Sram x-9 rear derailer, Shimano XT front derailer, DT Swiss hubs with Mavic 321 wheels. Around 28 pounds.
Bottom Line:
I have ridden this bike on the rocky single track in Prescott, Sedona, and Flagstaff (that's all we have in Northern Arizona) and have yet to be dissapointed. Climbing or down hill this bike handles great. I'm also impressed with the durability of the bike after a couple of crashes in those rocks. I was really concerned about spending so much money on a mountain bike but figured with the high resale value of the Blur I could afford to try it. I'm glad I went for it and am totally happy with the purchase. If you want a killer trail bike that will improve your riding and inspire confidence the Blur LT is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brandon Marshall
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, Ca Date Reviewed: May 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
American Cyclery
Strengths:
This bike is lightweight and climbs like a rocket with no hint of bob. But where it really shines is pointed downhill on twisty, technical singletrack. This bike reads your mind.
Weaknesses:
umm, well. umm, it doesn't bar-b-que after a ride.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized fsr-pro, Cannondale rush, Santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
Black anno, Fox Float RLC 140, Rp23, X-9 gears and XTR 970 rings, juicy 7s
Bottom Line:
If you like to climb technical track and decend on the attack, then get the blt and don't look back. If you can only get one bike, like me, then this should be it. It is expensive, but dman does it perform. I have had this ride for a little more than 6 months and the goofy grin this bike gave me on the day I rode it home from the lbs is still pasted across my face.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, wa, USofA Date Reviewed: April 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Purchased At:
Montlake Bike Shop
Strengths:
Very quick and responsive and climbs well with little bob. The bike overall seems to fit me well and has nice balance. I don't race, but this bike is so fast, I imagine the XC version would work very well for racing.
Weaknesses:
I don't think Sram shifts as quickly or as smoothly as the Shimano, but I like the thumb only style, so I hope I can get used to them.
Similar Products Used:
Rush, FSR, Ephipany, Fuel 6, Blur XC, Heckler
Bike Setup:
Float RP23/ Fox Fork RLC 32, Juicy 7 Brakes, Sram x-9 rear derailer, Shimano XT front derailer,
Bottom Line:
Compared to the above listed bikes, this bike really seemed to be the quickest and best fit for me (5'7", 165). I rode it yesterday and was amazed at how fast and responsive it was. Very little bob and climbs like a billy goat.
I also enjoyed riding the Rush and the Trek Fuel 6. If you are on a budget, either of those bikes seems like a great ride for the money, and you should ride them.
The Blur LT, unlike the Ephipnay, lives up to it's reputation. I was blown away with how easy I made sections of my local trails yesterday, which were always a struggle on my 6 year old bike. It really is amazing how far the technology of mountain bikes has come in 6 years.
I like the adjustablility of the Fox shock/ forks, and it didn't take long to get them dialed in enough to have a responive agile ride. I can't wait to take the Blur to a real mountain next week, where I can use the lock-out features and test the plush down-hill at high speeds. Great bike- if you are around my size and not as concerned about the price tag- give it a go...........MTT
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Pembroke Pines, Fl. USA Date Reviewed: March 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Anything Technical
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Big Wheel Bicycles
Strengths:
Weight for a trail/xc bike is great for those all day rides. Anodized paint job is wicked nice. RP23 completes the feeling of coasting on a cloud
Weaknesses:
Still have yet to experience any. Let's hope it stays that way.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpy FSR, Trek Fuel, Jamis Cross Country 2.0
Bike Setup:
Rear Shock: Fox RP23 Fork: Fox 32 Talas RLC Seatpost: Thompson Saddle: WTB Rocket V Crankset: Shimano XTR '07 Pedals: Time ATAC XS Front And Rear Derailleur: Shimano XTR '07 Wheelset: Mavic Crossmax ST rims with Maxxis LUST tires Brakes: Avid Juicy Sevens Headset: King Stem: Thompson Riser Bar: Race Face Carbon
Bottom Line:
Simply put, this machine puts confidence in you just from climbing on. It's nimble and solid feeling on the trail makes you want to do more and more until you have nothing left. The combination of the Talas RLC and the RP23 just hands you the means to blow through small stuff and still handle those bigger drops and obstacles with ease. Mavic Crossmax ST with it's lightweight and strength technology are a must on this machine. This bike is like jekyll and hyde. Killing the trails for leisure one second, shooting through a xc race the next. If you want to fly like a bat out of hell but with all the control and confidence a trailbike should have, climb on the BLT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ben
a Cross Country Rider
from san jose Date Reviewed: March 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Takes bigger hits with ease. Pedals like a harder tail. Light for a trail bike. VPP technology. Highly sought after bike. Can't find any used.
Weaknesses:
Expensive. Higher maintenance on the bearings near the bottom bracket. Took a while to get used to and pretty difficult to dial in. Can't find any used.
santa cruz blt, fox float rear, fox vanilla front, xt everything, dt swiss w/ onyx hubs, etc....
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike w/ heavy price tag. VPP technology is nice and bike likes to take some hits. Hammers well and sucks up most stuff with ease. Light and nimble. Don't think I will be giving this thing up any time soon unless something comes out that just better at everything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roberto
a Weekend Warrior
from OC, CA Date Reviewed: January 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Any with Dirt
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Company
Strengths:
Loads of travel. The RP3 is great.
Weaknesses:
None so far. I guess it doesn't climb as well as the Blur Classic
Similar Products Used:
K2 Proflex 5000, Santa Cruz Superlight, Santa Cruz Blur Classic
Bike Setup:
XO, Easton, Thomson, Race Face, Chris King, Manitou
Bottom Line:
Greatest bike I have owned thus far. It actually improves the ride of the original Blur (except it's a little more sluggish on climbs). The weight is great for a long travel trailbike (27.5 pounds). Worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Etienne Sales
a Cross Country Rider
from Barberton, Mapumalanga, ZA Date Reviewed: December 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Climbing with a downhill home
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2449.00
Purchased At:
Xtreme sports
Strengths:
Great bike climbs like a goat and desends like a scud missile. No pedal feedback soaks up bumps while climbing, very good traction in technical climbs, not to heavy for AM bike 31.9 pounds including pedals
Weaknesses:
None, maybe creaky noise!
Similar Products Used:
Scott reflex25, Giant trance demoed, GT idrive4 1.0 demoed, scott hardtail
Bike Setup:
Fox float 130RLC, Fox RP23, XT/LX group, time pedals, XT hubs on 819 mavics, Kenda Nevagals tubeless
Bottom Line:
This bike runs on rails!
It is really a great confidence builder, the annodised orange is a beatifull colour, with lazer etched decals it really looks good.
You will need a downhill bike to go any faster down hills. This bike loves singletrack, steers like a dream be carefull of to long a stem, this could make it feel sluggish.
Climbs like a mountain goat with no bobbing or pedal feedback over rough technical climbs, excellent grip in these conditions, well worth the extra 5 pounds.
I have done a 4 day stage event two weeks ago this bike really made a tough race comfortable, with no mechanical issues.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Collins, CO Date Reviewed: November 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
My Backyard - Horsetooth & Lory
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Full Cycle Old Town Fort Collins
Strengths:
Suspension design, geometry, lightweight & long travel. The 7 inch rotor up front makes a huge difference - especially for bigger riders.
Similar Products Used:
2004 Blur (the "Classic") & 2006 Nomad
Bike Setup:
I'm 6'1, 210 lbs. I'm riding a Large with 100 mm stem. I swapped up to new Mavic ST wheels from the XM 321's. Loved the 321's but WOW am I impressed with the ST's - unbelievable ride. Best wheels I have ever ridden - including XL's and SL's.
Bottom Line:
After a couple of quick test rides I decided to trade-up from my 2004 Blur classic - an awesome ride but kind of XC for the riding around here. I already own an orange Nomad XO AM and am very happy with it but really liked the way the Blur LT felt & fit in the shop - so this is my new XC / trailbike.
I have owned this rig for about three weeks now and have had it out for a bunch of 1 - 2 hour loops on the local mountain but finally had the time on Thanksgiving Day to put together a four hour sufferfest with more than enough technical climbing and descending. We covered every type of terrain imaginable - long, steep fireroad climbs - rocky, technical singletrack descents with tons of switchbacks, drops and jumps - twisty, hardpack XC trails and a long steep downhill section of superloose rocks and sand that, once you commit, you have to stay in it or you're going to get hurt.
I reluctantly have to admit that I like this bike a little better than my Nomad.
While the geometry and suspension are, obviously, similar, I feel much more centered over the Blur. I feel like I can put more power down on the Blur and that I can "stick" the rear wheel more easily just by changing my stance on the pedals - on the flipside I sometimes felt like the Nomad was taking me with it rather than letting me control it. Maybe it's just the extra five pounds and the resulting fatigue from putting in a long day on a 33 lb bike... probably a combination of both. Obviously, the Blur is much easier to climb with and is almost as mistake-proof on the downs as the Nomad. Lateral stiffness was comparable - the only noticeable difference was front end stiffness. It's hard to compete with a FOX 36 and a 20MM thru axle but the Fox Float RLC and the new Mavic ST wheels felt stiffer than any other standard QR, 130 mm fork / wheelset combo I have ridden.
Anyway, I have had the pleasure of owning a lot of very nice bikes including custom made ti racers, Ellsworth Moment & Id, Santa Cruz Heckler, Blur & Nomad and much more going back to 1987 when I first started taking bikes on dirt trails. I'm going to have to say that, honestly, this one is fast becoming my favorite bike ever. I realize that my length of ownership is suspect for a five star review but I have had enough dealing with SC customer support (Hi Willy) that I know durability and warranty issues are not going to be a problem.
Here's the best trailbike so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: November 7, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very reliable, amazing at going downhill and up, simply the best bike I have ridden and it has vastly improved my riding. It is the perfect balance for my riding, light and fast enough for a bit of racing and bombs down the hills. Well worth the money.
Weaknesses:
sometimes a bit of squeak from the suspension, but lube fixes it.
Similar Products Used:
GT I drive 5 - It was a dog
Bike Setup:
Fox Float 130 RLC, RP3, Bontrager race lite wheels, race x lite stem, thompson post, xt dual control groupo, xtr chain and cluster, FSA 190 bars, chris king headset. Larson TT 2.0 tubeless tyres
Bottom Line:
This bike is worth the money, I have done 2000km so far without a single problem. To go faster uphill I would need a hardtail, to go faster downhill I would need a downhill bike. If you only have one bike this is the one to get. Comfortable and efficient enough to ride all day.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brooks
a
from Moab, Utah Date Reviewed: October 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Any new techy trail - Ex. 2 tortoise
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
At a claimed 27 pounds this bike is amazingly stable. The suspension is supple over rough rocky terrain, yet it pedals with authority. It is well balanced.
Orange Blur LT with the SPX XC build kit (see the Santa Cruz web site for specifics). The only thing I changed was swapping out the Race Face Deus 25" low rise bar for a 27" Easton EA70 Monkey Bar. Time Z-Control Pedals (but will soon get Time ATAC's)
Bottom Line:
This is one of the finest all mountain bikes I have ever ridden - the Ellsworth Epiphany that I demoed this summer at Deer Valley was a fine bike and I wish I could have ridden it more for a better comparison.
Notice that I said "all mountain" even though MTBR has it in the cross country section and the build kit is an XC. My first ride was on the Slickrock trail in Moab and I was absolutely astounded at how supple the ride was over the rough sections of rock. The new 140mm Fox TALAS and the Fox RP23 seem very balanced and more plush than I would ever expect from a cross country bike with air suspension. Yet, the thing is light and takes off like a rocket when you mash on the pedals - no slight hesitation of a shock compressing and no mushy feeling, just get up and go. It is much more responsive than my Nomad and doesn't have the slightly dead feel in the pedals that I experience with the Nomad. I'm not knocking the Nomad - it's just a different animal. I took the Nomad on Porcupine Rim this week and absolutely hammered the trail. The Nomad took it in stride and allowed me to do amazing maneuvers with ease - I would not have ridden the Blur LT nearly as hard on the trail or tried the big jumps. I have tried a few small jumps (2-3 feet) with the Blur LT and the bike absolutely took them in stride - no sweat.
I was also particularly impressed with the balance of the bike. While riding the 24 hours of Moab race course (just for fun), I did a track stand right in the middle of an extremely ugly rock section to quickly find the best line to the bottom and the bike was absolutely stable. I will also mention that the 27" bars are a big help when performing technical maneuvers. The stronger leverage makes the bike much less twitchy than most XC's and helps you power out of tough situations on the trail.
This appears to be the start of a long and happy relationship (don't tell my wife!).
My only negative regarding this bike is the company itself (the bike is a jewel). It's always sad to me to see companies experience some measure of success and forget that to succeed you not only need to have a good product - which Santa Cruz does - but you need to treat the customer well. When I got my bike I was quoted one price for Anodized and another price for Powder Coat frame. I ordered the powdercoat frame, but when I got the bike, Santa Cruz had charged the price of an ano frame. When my dealer called Santa Cruz, they basically said "we're not going to do anything - you got a good price". I did get a good price - that's not the point. The difference in price was not a large amount of money - in fact I don't blink an eye at spending that amount of money on a set of pedals or a helmet. It's the principal of the thing. If you get quoted one price by the company, they ought to stick with it. A deal is a deal. I've never had this experience with other bike companies and certainly intend to look at the great bikes other companies make when it is time to get a new one. Therefore, I am rating the bike down on value. If the company had just treated me like a valued customer instead of a lowly serf coming before a king, they'd be getting a better value rating. I have read other reviews and have talked to other people who have had the same type of experience with Santa Cruz - that's a shame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Bridges
a Weekend Warrior
from Menlo Park, California Date Reviewed: August 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Not telling, keep off!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3100.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Connection
Strengths:
Frame appears to be very stiff yet reasonably light weight too. The four-bar VPP linkage is very effective at ironing out the rough stuff whilst allowing strong up-hill pedalling without 'bob' (though it's not perfect - see weaknesses) - makes light work of 2000ft+, rough ascents. Doesn't apear to be too floaty at all. I really hope it has the longevity too. I enjoy aggresive riding and was a little concerned initially that this bike would be too 'relaxed' for me - but thankfully my fears were not realised: This thing is incredibly fast, accurate and aggresive, whilst also being comfortable enough to ride for hours on end. On undulating, variable, roller-coaster-like single-track I have been having repeated zen-like experiences on this amazing machine. Added to that this bike actually urges you on to hooligan-like behavour when doing big down-hill. The best bike I've enjoyed in a long time.
Weaknesses:
Nothing serious that I am aware of so far. Minor gripes: There is a little torque through the pedals occasionally when you're climbing over rough stuff, but what you loose there is made up for in incredible pedalling efficiency: You CAN actually sit and pedal over the rough stuff! Whilst the bike is a little on the pricey side I also believe (and hope) that you get what you pay for. I tend to treat a bike pretty hard, however I'm only 170lbs and I've only had it 3 months. I will report back if anything changes, and I will be keeping a close eye on the linkage bearings.
Similar Products Used:
Last bike was a Woodstock 505 - a very accomplished and high value hard-tail. Similar specified bikes tested from Specialized, Marin and Trek. I also use a Specialized Allez road bike.
Bike Setup:
Upgraded the forks to the 2007 32mm Fox Talas with 100 to 140mm travel - plush when you need it and it's absolutely brilliant to be able to drop the front end during those steep ascents. The rest is mainly standard SRAM X.9 XC setup with RP3 rear shock, Juicy 7's, Mavic rims, Easton bits and tubeless-converted 2.1" WTB Moto' tyres.
Bottom Line:
Having gone from a hard-tail to this, I've had a very enlightening experience on this thing - rear suspension is not what it used to be, and that's a good thing - as someone else said, it's almost too confidence inspiring. I have lost the smallest smidgen of up-hill pedalling efficiency, but it's gone unnoticed since that only occurs on smooth flat inclines: The setup is so good you CAN actually pedal up rough, boulder strewn hills without the challenges of your rear tyre hopping out of control like it does ona hard-tail! For those that want a single mountain bike that will offer them near-uncompromising performance across a wide variety of terrain, I highly, highly recommend the Blur LT. But be warned, this bike makes me wish I didn't have to work - I want to ride everyday!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Brainard
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, Ca. Date Reviewed: August 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Vail downhill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Factory
Strengths:
Steady as sh*t. VPP actually works. Light for it's size. Impressive downhill geometry.
Weaknesses:
Slightly odd geometry for climbing. Started with cb eggbeaters; bad idea. stock truvativ cranks suck. Swinger 3way kind of sucky as well.
After putting there stuff in a movie (See The Tripper next year) I fine gentlemen at SC Bikes hhooked me up with this LT after my Gary Fisher was stolen the first day there. God works in mysterious ways. I had no idea how far full suspension had come. This bike is damn near heaven. Some components are poopy, 3way leaks, truvativ cranks bend too much under my 205 poound weight, but other than that I could not believe the performance and steadyness of this machine. When not riding it, I just like to look at it. One slight complaint is that for my height, 6' 4", when the seat is properly adjusted, I feel a bit too high off the ground. As in my feet won't touch down when sitting which feels a bit off-putting. Makes climbing weird.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Cross Country Rider
from Grass Valley CA USA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Tahoe Rim Trail to Marlette Peak
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Great Deal at Zion Cyclery in IL! Thanks Kurt and Mary
Strengths:
Geometry is excellent for all day riding, bombing down singletrack, climbing like a goat, ano orange is very Dutch speedskating cool, Components, overall Fun Factor.
Weaknesses:
Wait...Wait...Wait.
Similar Products Used:
Klein Team Palomino
Bike Setup:
Xtra large XO AM with Avid JCY 7, Fox FLoat 130 x trail tune and rp3 Race Face Next SL Speedplay frogs althought thinking about candy ti!
Bottom Line:
After my lower back suffering with the geometry of all of my Kleins-mantra, Adept Pro, and then finally a Palomino, My BLT gives me the geometry that is good all day. My back has never bothered me on my Blur LT. This makes riding so much more fun and enjoyable...so I ride more and suffer less. The bike handles extremely well in technical situations, climbing--I climbed from spooner lake to marlette peak last sunday and was truly amazed at how well this bike handled on the more technical stuff. Then after all the climbing and suffering, the Blur showed up big on the way down the 2500ft descent. The fox set up works very well. Although on the first ride my rp3 blew out. Fox told me 2-4 weeks and the boyz at SC told me 2 days. Thanks Guys! The bike is truly a joy to ride. Great for Nor cal like Tahoe, Downieville, and anything else that tries to eat up the hardtailers. I could race this if I wanted to and have chosen to spend more time riding than driving to and from events on weekends(even thought I miss my racing buddy Kevin) Blur blessings to all
t
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Golden Fillmore
a Cross Country Rider
from Summit County, Colorado, USA Date Reviewed: August 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Colorado Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Mountain Sports Outlet
Strengths:
Great Geometry Weight (light for an All-Mountain) Great stock set-up (X-9)
Weaknesses:
None so far...
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper Cannondale Rush 1000 Kona Dawg Primo
Bike Setup:
SRAM X-9 Avid Juicy 7 XT Front D Flox Float R23 Rear Fox Float RLC 32 mm Fork
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike because I wanted an upgrade from my 2003 Stumpy. I wanted disc brakes a suspension that could be more modified and soemthing that had more travel, but was more like an XC bike than an All-Mountain bike.
This is it. I don't notice the weight difference after moving from the Stumpy and I love the brakes and suspension. Fox Float has come a long way. I can adjust almost everything on the shocks - it's wonderful.
I really enjoy the VPP suspension. I don't notice pedal-bob going up hills, but enjoy the cushion descending. It's a great bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis Hogan
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago Date Reviewed: August 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Noble canyon (san diego)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Richards bikes
Strengths:
Climbs like my classic blur, corners on rails and keeps a great line when pointed down hill(not jittery). Strong frame, no weight or fork restrictions
Weaknesses:
Santa Cruz screwed the polished finish and wouldnt do anything for me
Similar Products Used:
My old blur has some things in common but doesnt really compare.
Bike Setup:
Big Mike at Richards really hit the nail on the head setting up this bike. avid carbon brakes, Hadley Hubs on stans rims,X.o grip shift carbon rear ,xtr front,stylo cranks,q-rings,speedball seatpost,pike fork,x-4 stem,king headset
Bottom Line:
I love the way the bike rides ,up ,down ,over, etc. This bike can handle anything short of total downhill and huge drops but rides the flats just short of a cross country racer. The set-up, hooked up by mike at richards, really added to the bikes already versatile platform. On principal this is my third and possibly last Santa Cruz due to the lack of cooperation and compassion, or even interest in my problem, shown by Santa CRUZ. I have a new polished frame that out of the box looked like someone took sand paper to it.No discount ,no replace ,little communication. Richards helped me remove some of the scratches and was helpful in keeping me a satisfied customer but no-longer a santa cruz loyalist
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Sterrett
a Racer
from Daventry,Northants,England Date Reviewed: August 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine rim,Moab utah
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
Stif sports uk
Strengths:
Drops like a rock,tracks so well while cornering and heavy braking.Climbs out of this world for a all day descending machine.You could race DH on certain Uk courses in the winter if it was really muddy.Awesome tyre clearance on the rear,I'm running 2.35 maxxis high rollers,no issue with rubbing.
Weaknesses:
Uk prices are so much more costly then in the USA,puts alot of uk riders off.
Similar Products Used:
Used Standard Blur in Colorado and Moab last year while on holiday,LT is a step in the right direction.Pedals better while rear end is active.
Bike Setup:
Fox DHX Air 5.0 rear shock,Fox 130mm RLC,Avid Juicy 7,Sram X0 gears and shifters,Thompson seatpost and stem,Mavic Wheels(gives awesome tire profile)
Bottom Line:
The best all day bike on the market(better than Intense 6.6 and 5.5).Easy to clean,all bearings are simple to check and replace.Works like a early Dh bike(santa cruz super 8)on the descents and climbs like a XC bike,very nimble and changes direction with ease.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil McQuillan
a Weekend Warrior
from Ulverston, Lake District Date Reviewed: July 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Red Trail Peebles
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Biketreks
Strengths:
Amazing plush travel. Fantastic compared to the two Hecklers I've owned. Fox RP3 is amazing - better than the older coil shocks I've ridden. The ability to reduce the platform effect is welcome as I hate the feel platform shocks give a bike. The Pike's were a suprise - I've ridden Bombers and Pace forks including the newer RC40's and RC41's and the Pike's where right up there.
A bike which can be hucked off drops without a second thought.
Weaknesses:
Perhaps felt a little floaty at speed. Might have been the WTB tires but it didn't feel as stable as my Heckler at high speeds. I didn't really have time to mess with the damping, so I think was more a setup issue.
The normal SC slightly rough finishing in certain areas.
Similar Products Used:
Heckler old and new style. Running 5th Element coil on the newer rig.
I'm in the market for a new bike after be Heckler was stolen. I'm a big fan of SC kit having owned a pair of Hecklers and a Chameleon.
The Blur was mind altering across technical terrain allowing me to jump boulders and drops I would normally avoid. It climbs well for such a capable bike as well. I'm stunned by how far suspension design has come along and the options this is opening up for riders now. The only draw back I can see is the fact that we share a lot of our trails with walkers in the Lakes and the speeds a bike like this could maintain once it was properly dialed in is a real worry. More dedicated trails required I believe.
Anyway a fantastic bike which anyone on an older suspension design should test ride to see how far things have come along.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J
a
from UK Date Reviewed: June 28, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This bike rules. Go up, down, around, over - you choose. The suspension turns every rock and root into butter. Ace.
Weaknesses:
Paint rubbing aound chainset.
Similar Products Used:
Orange Hardtail
Bike Setup:
Fox Float RP3 shock Fox Float 130 XTT fork XT front & back Hayes 9 XC hydros WTB Speed Discs WTB Weirwolf tyres
Bottom Line:
Moving from a hardtail to the BLT is like moving forward in time 10 years - feels like it was made for me. The ride is smoooooth - VPP gives you complete control, no loss of power on the ups, but flies over the bumps like they're not there. My trail riding is getting much better and I'm enjoying it loads more after just 3 weeks. Great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Kramer
a Weekend Warrior
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: June 25, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Deer Creek Trail, Crested Butte
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Smooth, unstoppable, plush sweet suspension, killer handling, climbs like a mountain goat, descends like a rock.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Superligh, Trek Fuel 100
Bike Setup:
Full 05 XTR (including disc brakes), Fox Float 100 RLC, Mavic Crossmax Rims, Easton bars seatpost etc
Bottom Line:
This is by a wide margin the best all around bike out there. Climbs like a beast, and the decents are as smooth as railraod track. The VPP makes for mad efficency, and you can do just about anything on this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Cincinnati, Ohio, USA Date Reviewed: June 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
too many to list
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Montgomery Cyclery
Strengths:
Looks very sexy. Very rigid. The handling is phenominal. The suspension is awsome and gives a smooth buttery ride everytime.
Weaknesses:
The powder coat paint is kinda weak. It seems to rub off and scratch easily. Cable rub is a problem but if you put clear packing tape under the cable, then there will be no issues with cable rub on the paint.
Similar Products Used:
04 Specialized fsr xc
Bike Setup:
Thompson handlebar/stem, 06 Fox talas rlc, 06 Fox rp3 shox, shimano xt drivetrain, ritchey seatpost, specialized avatar saddle, and panaracer fire xc tires.
Bottom Line:
This is by far one of the best bikes I have ever ridden. I have owned a specialized 04 fsr xc, and done alot of riding on a specialized enduro comp. They don't compare to the BLT in anyway. The suspension is so plush and active that it makes the ride so smooth even over extremely rough terrain. I am very pickey when it comes to suspension and when I bought the bike I did so under the impression that this would be the type of ride wheere you don't feel many bumps. It does that and much more. I am very happy with my choice to buy the BLT b/c its everything I could want in a bike and more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay Banes
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton, Alberta, CANADA Date Reviewed: May 17, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
River Valley Cycle
Strengths:
She bangs along as hard as you want to give it to her for all mounatin riding.
Weaknesses:
None based on what this bike is designed for.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stump FSR
Bike Setup:
X9 Santa Cruz Package
Bottom Line:
This is one sweet unit.....versatile, to say the least....you end up looking for the bigger hits, stumps, and rocks just because this bike eats things up so well...confidence inspiring ride..it allows you to push the envelope of your abilities because its so stable and controlled when things get rippin'...you point this bike into turns at speed, and it just grabs and sails.... The Santa Cruz VPP suspension is truly amazing....it simply remains active under heavy braking and virtually elimates pedal feedback....on top of that, it climbs...so this bike is truly a great all round bike...like specialized says of their FSR bikes..."is this a XC race bike or a fast all-mountain trail bike?"....to which this narcissistic bike would answer, "YES...but better....."
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fabricio Fracchia
a Weekend Warrior
from Venezuela Date Reviewed: May 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
all of my country!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
SC venezuelan dealer
Strengths:
very good climber as long you saty seated, good downhiller at high speeds
Weaknesses:
need carefull with the maintenance
Similar Products Used:
stumpjumper comp, cannondale prophet
Bike Setup:
Blurt LT, size M, black anodized FOX TALAS 36RC2 150 mm Fox Float RP3 Race Face Diabolous handlebar,FSA FR230 stem,Crane Creek S6 headset Truvativ FireX cranks, FSA Platinum ISIS drive bottom bracket LX hydraulic disk brakes with Dangerboy levers 185mm Avid Poligon rotor front, 160mm Avid Poligon rotor back SRAM X-9 Rocket triggers XT front and rear derailleurs, XT 11-34 cogs Mavic XM117 rims, Marzocchi 20 mm TA front hub, DT spokes Kenda Nevegal Stick-E tires (2.35 front and 2.1 back) with Stan’s No Tubes system WTB Laser Team DH saddle, Thompson Elite seatpost Crank Brothers Mallet M… orange ones! Lizard Skin Logo grips
Bottom Line:
first of all: REMOVE THE BLT FROM THE XC TYPE IN THIS PAGE!!!!!. Is an all mountain bike!!!!..(xc sucks!) this is a post from my entry after the first month of the purchase, is amazing how you can change your handling skills with this bike, you dare more the hard lines on the trail and the obstacles are like ramps at high speeds, going uphill you just need your MP3 music and keep seated enjoying the trail, don't try to hammer too much, that's the difference with the skinnies and lycra dressed xc runners, they think that just because you go seated are slow.. but like I do here: ask them pull over when the hill turn upside down. See ya...ALL MOUNTAIN RULES!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, UT, USA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Great Weastern Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Guthries
Strengths:
Great travel. Quality. Stability
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy for the price.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Full XT with Fox Float RLC and RP3. Avid juicy seven brakes.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. Great travel and control on downhills. Seems heavy on uphills.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque NM U$A Date Reviewed: April 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Faulty Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3050.00
Purchased At:
Sport Systems
Strengths:
Loves to Jump as well as Climb. Best feeling and riding mountain bike I've owned yet.
Weaknesses:
Metal bouncing around inside right chainstay.
Similar Products Used:
Ironhorse DW-link Hollowpoint- snapped seat tube, but received full refund from Performance. Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, Merlin Ultralite, Univega Full Suspension with full XTR, Mongoose AMP
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla RLC fork, Fox RP3 rear shock, DT hubs, Avid Juicy 7 discs, etc.
Bottom Line:
Best bike I have ever ridden. She takes jumps wonderfully, makes you want to pop off of every rock, root, whoop-de-doo, whatever and be in the air. It is like snow boarding without the expensive lift ticket. This frame has put a smile on my face every ride. I am so glad I broke my other frame and am on this bike now. I will ride this one into the ground, if I can. I even froze up and locked up the brakes off of a jump the other day and was able to ride out of it instead of eating dirt like I would have on my last bike. Thank you Santa Cruz you have created a wonder!! Buy this bike if you enjoy mountain biking and trying to ride lines and trails that challenge your ability. I do not know if I will ever be able to get to the point where my ability surpasses the bike's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dana Forseth
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: April 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
El Prieto-JPL Pasadena, CA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1251.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse
Strengths:
Feels like it was tailor made to fit by body dimensions. Instant "At home feel" in the saddle or attack position. Climbs great and descends even better.
Weaknesses:
Standover height (not a major gripe for my riding style) Provides a false sense of security that makes you think you are better then you really are! (maybe that should be classified as a product strenght)
Similar Products Used:
None (prior bike was a 1995 GT Team RTS that rocked during it's time)
Bike Setup:
FORK-Fox Float X TT-130mm travel REAR SHOCK-Fox Float RP3 REAR DERAILER-Shimano XT M751 SGS FRONT DERAILER-Shimano XT M760 SHIFTERS-Shimano XT M750 Rapid Fire CRANKSET-Shimano XT M760 (22/32/44) BOTTOM BRACKET-Shimano XT M760 CASSETTE-Shimano XT M760 (11-34) CHAIN-Shimano XTR HG 93 BRAKES-Avid Juicy 7 BRAKE LEVERS-Avid Juicy 7 BARS-Race Face Diabolus STEM-Easton EA50 GRIPS-Lizard Skin Lock On HEADSET-Cane Creek S2 SEAT POST-Easton EA 70 SADDLE-WTB Rocket V Comp WHEELS-WTB Dual Duty FR rims w/ Onyx DT Swiss hubs w/ DT 14/15 black spokes and alloy nipples TIRES-Kenda Nevegal TUBES-Kenda Freeride PEDALS-Primo Pro Magnesium Sealed COMPUTER-Cat Eye Micro Wireless
Bottom Line:
This bike shreads! Climbs like a monkey and swallows bumps like ant eater. Takes hits on the chin and keeps on grinning. Flys downhill like a madman, yet you feel always in control. Who said it is impossible to have only one bike for all riding terrains? This is the best all round (XC/AM/DH) bike I have ever had the pleasure of riding. This bike makes you a better rider by making one feel bullet-proof. Many times the hype and marketing that surrounds a product can often overshadow the true affect. This is definately NOT the case for the Blur LT. I was forced to purchase a new bike because some dilnig stole by old bike. But after getting over the emotional trama of losing my old but faithful companion, I have come to appreciate new technology. This spice content on this badboy is absolutely 5 chili's all the way.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Weekend Warrior
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: March 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
Handling, handling, handling, suspension performance, full front triangle design (for dropping seat, racking etc.), nice build quality, fairly light, good value for money.
Weaknesses:
Radial rear tire clearance on mud rides (minor).
Similar Products Used:
Jekyll 1000, S/C Heckler, Ellsworth Moment
Bike Setup:
Med frame (5'9" rider), RP3 shock (large volume), Pike 454 Air U-Turn fork, King hubs & headset, 819 rims, XT/XTR drivetrain, Race Face Deus stem & post, Ritchie oversize carbon bar, Kenda Nevegals - 2.35 front, 2.1 rear.
Bottom Line:
By far the best all round bike I've ridden. Handling is mind blowing - the connection with the dirt simply lets you rip corners faster, the steering is perfect (nimble but stable), and everything feels balanced. Suspension is so good you never think about it, climbing is great, descending better than a 6" Ellsworth and quieter. I can ride some DH trials as fast as my DH bike (Stinky Dee-Lux)and it only weighs 28.5 lbs. The handling is so mistake-proof it gives you confidence to launch off just about anything you can see the landing on. At the shock setting for best all round performance (160psi for a 170lb rider) it will bottom out on even moderate drops with flat landings if your weight is even a bit rearwards - adjust your weight forward a bit & it's not an issue (the Pike does a great job). I wouldn't bother going to a DHX Air on an LT frame - if you want to hit stuff hard, get a Nomad with a DHX Air & a Fox 36 (next bike maybe??) Frame price is reasonable here in New Zealand and support is great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
NATI FRENKEL
a Cross Country Rider
from KAZIR- ISRAEL Date Reviewed: February 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
XC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
METZMAN& MERUTZ
Strengths:
LIGHT,GRATE GEOMETRY,VPP,AND A LOT OF CHARM.
Weaknesses:
NON SO FAR
Similar Products Used:
TRAK FUEL 90
Bike Setup:
FULL XT, MANITU MINIT 3 (130 MM')
Bottom Line:
NICE & CLEAN LINE OF GEOMETRY. THE RIGHT COMBINION OF XC & ALL MAUNTAIN. I LOVE IT !!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
el monstro
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Date Reviewed: February 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
RNP
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Brookvale Bike Factory
Strengths:
- weight - pretty light for a 5" travel trail bike - suspension - the VPP combined with the propedal on the RP3 combine nicely to make this a pretty efficient XC machine when required. Then flick off the pp and head downhill and it just floats over the rough stuff. This makes the bike very versatile and confidence-inspiring. - cornering - rails high-speed and flat corners superbly (might also have something to do with the 2.35 rubber...), I've doubled my cornering speed because of this extra traction - ordered the AM X9 build kit and loving it. The Juicy 7s are awesome, drivetrain is smooth as
Weaknesses:
- cost - once it gets to Australia I suspect that quite a few parties have made some good coin out of my purchase - bearing and linkages - these are going to need some monitoring and maintenance. I've already had a loose bolt actually fall off the upper shock linkage, that's a bit scary! With loctite and regular checks should be good though.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Reign, Spec StumpJumper, Scott Genius.
Bike Setup:
SC 2006 AM X9 build kit, Fox Float 130.
Bottom Line:
Like some of the other reviewers here I went from a hardtail to this - whoa nelly! Already my riding style has changed completely and it really is now a matter of bringing my skills up to somewhere near the capabilities of this bike.
The guys at BBF in Sydney were great, they know and race Santa Cruz bikes, ordered and built it within about three weeks and set up the suspension expertly.
The Blur LT gives me the efficiency and lightness to pedal hard all day combined with the strength and travel to bomb heavy technical stuff. There are plenty of great bikes in the 5" travel space now, even some of the 6" bikes are really light and versatile. I chose the BLT because of its proven design and because - well its pretty bloody sexy!
Value wise, there's no doubt you can now pick up a much cheaper 5" bike with good performance, the new Giants are an excellent package for example.
But this bike had to be something special and the BLT was the ticket. I've had it for about a month and done about 130km on it so far in widely varied conditions. Last weekend I rode my first endurance race and I have another one coming up soon. The Blur handles it all no problems. It's the rider that needs improvement now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Luna
a Cross Country Rider
from Laguna Hills Ca. usa Date Reviewed: February 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
telonic at aliso
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
warranty
Strengths:
more crank clearance for earlier pedaling out of turns and avoiding rock po-go. Steering is very stable at higher speeds. Ability to use up to 163mm of fork without warranty issues. Climbs like my blur classic without as much pedal tug when I'm just cruising. My blur classic cracked. I emailed Santa Cruz on a January Sunday night. Willie over there replied an amazing twelve hours later with a personal call and traded my cracked classic with my choice of an xc or blt. The blt arrived less than two weeks later. Warranty cannot replace the fox shock so they returned it with the old one. Even though my blt is only at 4.5 inches of travel until I get the right rp3 on, the bike's new geometry has the right stuff. I was sad when my classic left, but not anymore. The blt begs to be ridden agressively.
Weaknesses:
Nitpicking, but the powdercoat had to be scraped off the bottom bracket shell so I could feel confident that the outboard bearings would seat evenly. Cable braze ons so close to front gusset that install is tough, but shifting is still "on the money".
Similar Products Used:
blur classic jamis dakar giant trance Yeti 575
Bike Setup:
04 Talas 125mm. Wtb on 717s sram 8spd x-9 with twisters. xtr cassette xt cranks juicy brakes
Bottom Line:
Wonderful warranty surprise. I've seen this frame at bike shops with an rp3 shock for 1291.00 regular price! The blt is for people who want to step up the speed, the drops, and the intensity without loosing any climbing ability. If it bombs the way it does with a 125mm fork, I can't wait to see what it does with something up front like a Pike 454.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr.Tickles
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto. Ca Date Reviewed: January 31, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Private HK sale
Strengths:
Relatively light. Fabulous suspension. Antibob. Strong head tube junction. Much the same strenghts as everyone else mentioned.
Weaknesses:
I had a problem with ghost shifting initially. Not the frames fault. It was tracked down to an extremely stiff link on a new SRAM chain. Problem is allieviated now. No weakness to date. Bike is new and I have yet to take it on the trail.
Similar Products Used:
I can't say similiar. My old bike was a Cdale 4000 sl. Rock shock psylo xc
I'm extremely excited to ride this baby on the trail. So far I've only ridden in town, down stairs, small jumps and stuff. It feels great so far. This is my first full suspension rig and I'm just getting used to the setup. Very plush thus far. Just waiting for the spring to come. I'm surprised at how well the nixon is working. It's not too soft. In fact my old psylo's seemed to pogo more than this one. There's no rebound or lockout feature in this fork,but, the wait is light at 4lbs. I can't complain about anything on this bike. I received this bike 2nd hand so therefore I did not have to pay full price. It was only a couple of months old. The colour is anodized black. My ratings are based on futre sessions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from New Hampshire Date Reviewed: December 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Fort Rock
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Wheel Power
Strengths:
Excellent ride. I just switched from blur to blur lt. Compared to the blur, it has a much more 'fun' feel. I have only rode it one ride but I noticed that the slightly shorter top tube/chainstay and front fork pushed more out front... had the overall effect to make you sit a bit more upright, makes bike more fun to throw around, wheelie, etc... blur felt like an xc style bike, in contrast the lt more free ride. I did not notice the extra weight. On the blur I had the 100 rlc fox and the 130 is much more plush. If you want a bike that is more comfortable then the blur then buy the LT blur. If you wanna do some XC racing then get the regular blur. Someone wrote before that the suspension was harsher then the blur. I had the opposite opinion, feels great!
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Original Blur.
Bike Setup:
130 Fox float.
Bottom Line:
Buy it if you want a more free ride version of the original blur.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R B
a Cross Country Rider
from Fairfax Date Reviewed: December 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Northside
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Summit Cycles San Rafael
Strengths:
burly frame, santa cruz quality, instant confidence and "at home" feel
Weaknesses:
nada, zero, zip, none
Similar Products Used:
superlight, old schwinn s20
Bike Setup:
fox 130x fork & rp3 shock, xt cranksks, xt r/f der, formula k24 disc brakes, thompson seatpost, wtb rocket 5 saddle, cane creek s3 headset, easton ea50 stem and bars, onyx hubs, mavic 321 rims, kenda nevagal tires, salsa seatp clamp, xt skewers... enough friggin detail for you?
Bottom Line:
First ride on this bike was great. Instantly felt at home without much tweaking beforehand. Rode Deer Park-5 corners-Eldridge Grade to the top of Tam...2500' climb, totally nice, great climber. Conditions were nasty... riverbed, running water and rocks, all handled oh sooooooo well. Downhill was most confident ever. I absolutely love this bike and cannot wait to take this bike on sick technical everywhere. Nothing but 5 chilis all the way
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Swan
a Weekend Warrior
from San Carlos Date Reviewed: November 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Northstar Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Connection
Strengths:
Climbs great, flies downhill, turns like a champ, and comes with one year of tune ups from the dealer.
Weaknesses:
Price and it would be nice if it came with a manual.
Similar Products Used:
None: Used to ride a hardtail with Judy Shocks.
Bike Setup:
XT Components, Small Frame (I'm 5'7"), Dirty Dog Skull Brake Rotors, Egg Beater Pedals
Bottom Line:
This is a great all around bike. Climbs great, flies downhill eating up everything in sight, turns great...Makes me a better rider. I love this bike. I can't believe I waited this long to upgrade from my lame ass hard tail.
This is the perfect bike for those that only want one bike. I love this bike, but still wonder if I should have gotten a SuperLight and bought a used Kona Downhill for $1,000 for my adventures to Northstar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ace Brown
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Rivers, KY Date Reviewed: November 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Nearly all of them
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Wood-N-Wave
Strengths:
Quality build, nice welds, good finish.
Weaknesses:
So far I am not happy with ride/handling.
Similar Products Used:
Built this bike after my 2003 SC Blur broke the seat tube.
Bike Setup:
All XTR plus Avid mech discs (8 & 6"), Fox Talas 130 Fork, Fox DHX Air shock, Mavic CrossMax SL, WTB Mutanoraptor 2.4s. I weigh about 190 and am 5-10. Generally I like long epic rides with reasonable comfort.
Bottom Line:
I used to love my 2003 Blur until it broke. Replaced with a 2005 Blur LT size large. So far I am very unhappy with the ride and handling. It is absolutely hammering my butt and arms. Works well on the big hits, but small stuff is bouncing me all over the trail. I have had more crashes since I built this bike than I had in the past year of riding my old Blur. I have set the suspension as soft as possible and still can't find the plush ride my old Blur had. I just am at a lost to explain the difference between the two rides. One specific item that is causing trouble is the Fox Talas 130 Fork. It is very sticky in the first 1/2 inch of travel. My LBS says it will break in soon. I have never experienced this in any other fork I have owned, including the Fox Float RLC 100 that was on my old Blur. I aslo am having some trouble setting up the Fox DHX Air shock... too damn many variables.
Maybe in another month of use I will leasrn to love my Blur LT, but as it stands right now I wish I still had my old Blur.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto,On., Can. Date Reviewed: November 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Last one of the day
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Silent Sports, Toronto, ont
Strengths:
Orange anodized is amazing, frame is stiff even in XL, arguably one of the best rear suspension designs
Weaknesses:
To date I can't think of a single thing I would change.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
XL frame, XT drive train, XT crankset, Easton post, Fox RP3, 8" rotors, king headset, candy SL, Marzocchi Marathon SL 120mm
Bottom Line:
I was a bit hesitant in the selection of a Santa Cruz due to some of the horror stories. You should really think of the xt crank set as mandatory if you are building this bike. It is super strong, smooth, and it offers the correct chain line and clearance to the chain stay that may not be possible with some other arms and BB. So here’s the skinny. At 6’2” tall, 255 lb and good legs to boot this thing flies. My first thought was the XL frame would be like driving a bus on the tight single track. It couldn’t be further from the truth. Turns are smooth and accurate. One pound of air per pound of body weight worked well in the shock. Run the PP on firm to eliminate bob completely and switch to the middle position while climbing if you need more traction. Climbing! What can I say, amazing. Consider a travel limiting fork as a must. Without one switch back up hills will quickly lose their appeal. Slamming logs and rock gardens is a blast. For my application I don’t think I could have made a better choice. I would without hesitation make this purchase again. If I didn’t already have the fork I would have selected a Marzocchi all mountain. I think the folks at Santa Cruz have a winner here and their after sales support has been second to none.
Big boys now have something they can rejoice about.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fabricio fracchia
a Weekend Warrior
from Caracas Venezuela Date Reviewed: November 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
all around my city
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
venezuelan dealer
Strengths:
climb like a goat, with the rear shock well tuned is amazing how ride, and going down can take any obstacle in the trail
Marzocchi AM SL 130 mm Fox RP3 Race Face Diabolous handlebar,FSA FR230 stem,Crane Creek S6 Truvativ FireX cranks, ISIS drive Team SL Bottom bracket LX disk brakes 203mm front 160mm back Dual Control Levers XT front and rear derailleurs, SRAM PG 970 cogs Mavic XM117, Xt hubs IRC trail Bear 2.25" tires WTB Laser Team DH saddle, Thompson seatpost Crank Brothers Mallet M orange ones!
Bottom Line:
i loved this model (the Blur) since it appears on the market, but whe the BLT was the final word to purchase a custom bike.. i just can say that climb like my stumpjumper and downhill like my prophet..... no mo words the real trailbike!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Weekend Warrior
from Flagstaff Date Reviewed: October 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Flagstaff
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Strengths:
smooth ride, great climber.
Weaknesses:
delivery.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 98.
Bike Setup:
complete bike package from Santa Cruz. XL Blur LT
Bottom Line:
The bike has exceeded my expectations. Great product. The company was worse than I feared. I don't know how they stay in business with such a poor business model. The 5 month delivery time was bad enough, but never getting a straight story from them was worse. It was always 'almost ready'. Finally came, but with no brakes. Still waiting for them... luckily the LBS finally hooked me up with a pair out of pity. Very poorly run business.
Only buy this if you have a bike to ride in the mean time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Duluth, Georgia, USA Date Reviewed: October 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
401 Trail, Crested Butte
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1652.00
Purchased At:
Colorado cyclist
Strengths:
Frame build quality, Lateral stiffness, Full use of travel, versatility, excellent rear tire grip
Weaknesses:
None!
Similar Products Used:
Litespeed Niota AL, Ellsworth Moment
Bike Setup:
06' medium chrome frame, 06' Talas RLC, Mavic Crossmax Sl, Kenda Negeval UST, Full XTR disc, Thompson Stem and Seatpost, Candy Sl pedals, Easton Monkeylite Riser Bar
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that this bike ROCKS! I recently broke my Niota Al frame and decided to buy something new. I did my research and for the money nothing could compare to the Blur LT in the 5" all mountian catagory. I just built the bike up about two weeks ago, so i've had limited time thrashing it. But, I took it to Tsail last weekend and put it through the paces. First thing I noticed was the improved smoothness and lateral stiffness in the linkage over my Niota. The quality of the frame and welds is superior to my Niota, so i don't think i'll have any issues with broken welds. The travel feels endless and compares identically to a Ellsworth Moment i trashed in Crested Butte recently(but much lighter). On climbs i was amazed at how you could actually feel the rear wheel gripping the lose soil below you. I spent a little cheese on components, so my bike only weighs about 25.6lbs. At this weight it climbs exceptionally well and decends like a rocket. Do the research and test ride a Blur LT, you won't be dissapointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Moo Shoo Pork
a Weekend Warrior
from Alpharetta, GA Date Reviewed: October 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Cheseboro in CA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Reality Bikes
Strengths:
1) Suspension 2) Lateral stiffness 3) Pedaling efficiency 4) Bad Ass Looks
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse Hollowpoint Expert (Another Great Bike!)
Bike Setup:
Blur LT Black Ano, Full XT Drive Train, Crossmax Xl Wheelset, , Hayes Nag brakes w/ Mud Cutter rotors, Fox Rp3, Fox Talas RLC, Race Face Seatpost, stem, and handlebars, and UST Hutchinson Spiders.
Bottom Line:
Bottom Line? Bottom Line is that this bike is great! For the past 2 1/3 years I have been riding a un upgraded Iron Horse Hollowpoint Expert w/ the DW-LINK. I will say that the Iron Horse line of DW-Link bikes are awesome. But, I was looking for a light weight 5" FS ride that had similar suspension ride characteristics but that I could customize and be light wieght. Well, my bike weights in at 26.5 lbs w/ pedals. This bike weights 1 1/2 lbs less than my 4" Hollowpoint. The Blur LT just rides and pedals great. The VPP suspension works very efficiently but gives a plush ride. The wheels do a great job of tracking to the terrain. This is very evident when I stay seated thru rock gardens. This bike just instills confidence when riding thru very technical terrain. It ascends and descends like it is no one's business.
I will also give some props to my new LBS here in Georgia, Reality Bikes. These guys were awesome to work with, especially Chris who helped me spec the bike as well as build it. If you want an all-day epic riding bike that you can customize in terms of components, look no further than a Blur LT
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bernard
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: October 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Seamless rear suspension action. Overall the bike felt "right" from the first turn of the pedals. Seems to suck up the little trail irregularities as well as the really ugly stuff in a compotent unflappable manner.
Weaknesses:
For what it is, (A 5 inch travel trail bike) it is fabulous. It could be said that the rear suspension moves a bit under power, but it feels efficient, and as I demoed the bike for 3-4 hrs on Porcupine Rim trail in Moab (For those of you who don't know, It is about 45 min of fairly technical climbing followed by 2 or so hours of varying types of downhill from fireroad to 3-4 foot drops and a small section of slickrock). As far as some of the "reported" VPP weaknesses: I consider myself to have a fairly sophisticated knowlege of rear suspension, though I am not Pro level. Regarding Brake jack or stinkbugging, I could detect none. Additionally, I couldn't detect any stiffening of the rear suspension with the application of the rear brake. However, it should be noted that I am typically in the "Attack" position during any significant braking which places the weight in a somewhat rearward bias. Additionally, I could detect no pedal feedback when hitting bumps, nor did I have the sense that my pedal stroke caused stiffening of the rear end to the point of making it less supple - even in the granny ring. Perhaps with extended riding these issues could be noticed, but in the time I rode the bike, I couldn't notice any of it, so my assessment of it is that if it exists, it is very very mild. The bike did feel a bit sluggish on the pavement section of our ride, but what is the expectation of a 5 inch trailbike? Further, I just had the guys in the shop set the rear shock pressure, so presumably, it could be better dialed in with some fiddling. Having said that I thought it felt great overall, and on the trail, the sluggish feeling was not noticed.
Similar Products Used:
(Own) 1998 GT STS. (Demo or rented) Turner 5 spot Trek Liquid, Klein Palomino, Stumpjumper 120. (Of these, my opinion is that the Blur LT and the 5 spot are on a level above the rest... (I would love to test them each on the same day to draw comparisons, but this is a review for the Blur LT)
Bike Setup:
XT grouppo, Avid Juicy 7 brakes Fox Vanilla RL fork, Sturdy if not overbuilt wheels and WTB tires, Mutanoraptors I think and probably about 2.35 size or so. I suspect that the weight was in the 28 to 30 lb range. I figure that this bike could be built up to a sturdy package at 26 lbs or less for a bit more of a spritely pedaling bike, but it would not be cheap
Bottom Line:
I was really astounded by the quality of this bikes ride. For what it was designed, I think that it heat the mark perfectly. It may not be the perfect bike for everyone or for all applications, but for an all arounder - for a 5 inch trail bike - it is my opinion that it is one of the best offerings of our current time. It is a great time to be a mountain biker! As far as value, I believe that this is an instance of one getting what is paid for, BUT I really don't give much validity to my answer because Value can only be measured over a long period of time, and I rented the bike for 4 hours... Overall rating 5 chilis. As mentioned, I was astounded by its overall performance. On the descent of Porcupine rim trail, I was grinning uncontrollably and just enjoying the ride - nothing about the bike detracted from my enjoyment, and many aspects of the bike added to my enjoyment... I hope that this helps anyone looking for information. I should say that I am a scientifically minded health care professional, and have tried to apply an objective mindset to this review. I have been an avid mountain biker for 20 years (For those of you who know, my first mountain bike had "bull moose" handlebars). Additionally, I would love to hear from anyone who could provide an objective comparison of the Blur LT and 5 spot...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
terry brown
a Racer
from barrie Date Reviewed: October 3, 2005
Favorite Trail:
sidewinder
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
the bike zone
Strengths:
This is the best bike EVER it rides so smooth. I race ever friday at hardwood hills and this smokes every one.
Weaknesses:
none its absolutly perfect.
Similar Products Used:
rocky mountian ets x-30. santa cruz blur xc
Bike Setup:
rock shox pike hayes el camino fox dhx air and so on.
Bottom Line:
if you can find one for under $5000 you got it set.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shane
a Cross Country Rider
from Goshen, NY USA Date Reviewed: September 24, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Darkhorse Cycles
Strengths:
Light, Built USA, Anodized Black, climbs great, very active suspension, VPP, 5" front and 5.3" in rear, just rides awesome!
Weaknesses:
Price as always. Bought as a frame and swapped most parts from old hardtail, had to adjust my right cleat so my heel wouldn't hit the rear upper chain stay
Similar Products Used:
none except Giant AC-1 2002
Bike Setup:
Large Blk ano w/ RP3, Fox Float 130, Hope Discs, Mavic/XT wheels, XT/XTR, Tru Vativ, Thomson etc...
Bottom Line:
Great bike that just rides over whatever you want but climbs well, very comfortable that you can take out all day but built tough enough to handle drops. I can't think of a better bike. There's something I can't put my finger on but it just goes and goes where you want it to fast and furious. Key note: don't put any less than 130mm front fork. I swapped a 100mm RS Psylo Race 2002 on it, great fork but the geometry of the Blur LT is set to handle up to 160mm so the geo. is too far off to use anything less than 130mm in front. I put a Fox Float 130mm and it unleashed the bike into new realms of performance. Buy it, ride it, love it, hold on to it for years b/c although newer bikes will come out nothing is going to top this one for about 5-6 years that's worth spending another a couple of grand on. Enjoy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne Australia (Living in London UK) Date Reviewed: September 10, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Mojo Wheels (Denver)
Strengths:
Weight (light), good climber, inspires confidence, value (compared to the UK), great all round bike
REAR DER Shimano M750 SGS (XT) FRONT DER Shimano M760 (XT) SHIFTERS Shimano M750 Rapid Fire (XT) CRANKSET Shimano M760 22/32/44 (XT) BOTTOM BRACKET Included w/Crankset CASSETTE Shimono M750 11/34 (XT) CHAIN Shimano HG 93 (XTR) BRAKES Avid Juicy 7's w/6" rotors BRAKE LEVERS Avid Juicys BARS Easton EC 70 MonkeyLite XC STEM Easton EA 50 GRIPS Lizard Skin Logo HEADSET Cane Creek S2 SEAT POST Easton EA 70 SADDLE WTB Rocket V Team WHEELS DT XR 4.1d rims laced to DT Onyx hubs w/DT 14/15 spokes TIRES Kenda 2.35 folding
Bottom Line:
I submitted a review 2 days ago but is not posted, so will try again.
This bike is an upgrade from my trek liquid (of nearly 2 years). I spent some time deciding what bike to purchase and in the end came down to the Stumpy FSR, Reign and Blur. I am tall (6'5") and weigh about 90kgs so wanted something strong and light for mostly XC/trail riding with the possibility of a trip to the alps. After test riding the bikes the Blur felt the most comfortable and best fit, so when the BLT was announced it seemed perfect.
Normally the BLT would be out of my price range as they are approx 2500 quid here in the UK, but a trip to the US gave the opportunity to get one at a decent price. The guys at Mojo Cycles did a great job organising the bike and getting it in on time for my trip (I ordered it nearly 4 months before arriving and Mojo only received it from SC 2 days before I arrived). The complete bike cost me $3000 which is just a few hundred more than the frame and shock costs here in the UK. As this price I think the bike is very good value for money.
I went for the XL, due to my height, I think I need a longer and steeper stem to lift me up a little at the front; however the position was fine for 2 weeks of excellent riding in Colorado/UTAH.
Excluding the componentry upgrades/quality, the biggest differences I notice between this and the liquid are: *Suspension. Peddles much much better, especially up hill. The suspension visually still compresses while peddling; however it is not noticeable through the peddles and does not feel like it is zapping energy like the liquid. On the downhill side the rear suspension feels a lot more then it actually is soaking up all the bumps. Like any FS bike you need to play around and set up the shock/fork to personal style, and this combo offers plenty of adjustment. *Confidence. I just seem a lot more confident on this bike, which is probably due to how well it rides or suits my riding. *Weight. This bike is lighter then my liquid; however it feels super light. My XL is 28.5lbs.
While in Colorado I used this bike for everything from long trail rides (Colorado Trail), short trails up and down a mountain, slick rock of UTAH to the lift assisted black runs (lots of rocks, etc) at Keystone. The bike performed perfectly the whole time and I felt at home when I first climbed on. The only time I made any adjustment between different train was 10 to 20 psi out of the fork and shocks at keystone, apart from that did not touch it. After 3 runs on Cowboy up and TNT (at Keystone) my body could take no more but the bike was fine, which I was a little worried about given the bike (especially the rims, etc) were not designed for this type of riding.
This bike really feels like a can do it all bike for me (XC, trail and occasional ALP's trip) and I cant wait to get to Wales. The only upgrades I would possibly make are: *Brake upgrade for serious DH (or ALPs descents). The Juicy's are fine for XC/trail riding, and possibly lighter riders at the ALPs; however I would feel a little more confident with a larger rotor brake for something like the ALP's. I discoloured the rear rotor a little at Keystone; however the performance was always fine. *Longer travel fork again for more serious downhill, etc. Once again the Fox Float RLC forks are perfect for their intended purpose; however on some of the steep descents I felt the front of the bike could have been a little higher and done with a little more travel. This could also be part resolved with stem change as mention above.
All said could not be happier, if you have questions feel free to send me an email. I will send another update in a few months.
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Submitted by
LUIS FERREIRA
a Weekend Warrior
from PORTUGAL Date Reviewed: September 9, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1820.00
Purchased At:
LOJA DAS BICICLETAS
Strengths:
IT'S A SANTACRUZ, IT'S NOT A NEW MODEL, CORNER, CLIMB, DESCENT BETTER THAN MY CHAMELEON (TRDE ONLY THE FRAME)
Weaknesses:
ONLY WEIGHT MORE THAN MY CHAMELEON
Bike Setup:
FULL 2003 XTR, MAVIC CROSSMAX XL WITH HUNTCHINSON SPIDER, THOMSON, EASTON CNT, WTB PURE V FOX FLOAT 130mm
Bottom Line:
THAT IS AN INCREDIBLE BIKE, BEAUTIFULLY BUILT (ANO/BLACK). I WAS HURRY ABOUT THE CLIMBING AND GO TO TEST ON A VERY STEP TRAIL TO KNOW ABOUT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE CHAMELEON, IT CLIMB MUCH BETTER. THE ONLY THING I NOTICE WAS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE WEIGHT, MY LEGS ALMOST NOTE THAT ISSUE. SUPER ON THE DOWNHILL, MORE SPEED WITHOUT THE HURRY OF AN ENDO, THE REAR END ABSORB EVERYTHING AND I CANNOT FIND BRAKE JACK. CARVING CORNERS WITHOUT THAT OOP OF THE REAR WHEEL. BUY ON IF YOU CAN IT IS A PURE TRAIL BIKE!
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Submitted by
Brad Fulkerson
a Cross Country Rider
from Bradenton, FL Date Reviewed: August 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Alafia River
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
AJs Bikes and Boards
Strengths:
Great on the climb, awesome on the descent, fast on the long flat straight aways.
Weaknesses:
Sensitive to setup. This bike rides awesome if you have the right length stem set at the right height. Very sensiteive to variations in rider position. It took me several rides and tweaks to get it to ride, climb, corner, and descend like I wanted.
Similar Products Used:
None. I was a hardtail rider sick of getting his a** beat up all day on the rocky and root filled trails in Florida.
Bike Setup:
Fox TALAS on Front, RP3 on rear. SRAM x9 components. Race Face 110mm stem. Avid Juicy 5 disc brakes. Race Face XC Cranks, Time pedals, Mavic Crossmax Enduro rims w/ Continental Vertical Pro UST tires.
Bottom Line:
Awesome cross country bike. I was concerned about riding technical cross country trails on a full suspension bike, but the Blur LT is a true performer. After going through several adjustment rides, I finally got the bike set up the way that I want. It performs flawlessly and I am yet to find any real shortcomings. This bike is fast becoming the bike of choice at my "Home" trail as I see another new one seemingly every week. I am 5'11 170lbs and ride a large frame. This bike was very expensive, but worth every penny. Great for people who want one bike that will handle anything.
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Submitted by
Robert aka BobL
a Cross Country Rider
from Silverado Canyon, CA Date Reviewed: August 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
piss n moan
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Geometry, weight (light), suspension design
Weaknesses:
Finish: welds, machining. Engineering?
Similar Products Used:
Superlite, Intense 5.5, Maverick
Bike Setup:
06 Talus RLC, Mavics stuffed with Kings wrapped in stan-ized Stick-e Kendas, Magura Martas, ControlTec OS carbon bolted to a Thompson, spinning Turbine LP's w/ Ti 'Beaters, Race Face xy post holding up a Terry Ti Fly: 28lbs/5oz
Bottom Line:
After loving my Superlite for 4 solid years, on my big 5-0 I decided to treat myself to a nice upgrade: something a little plusher, a little less twitchy. Demo'd a 5-Spot and an Intense 5.5; 5-Spot bushings scared me, but bike handled great, Intense head angle just a bit steep, so along came the BLT. hadn't seen one in person, but it looked great "on paper". Plopped down the bucks and waited, and waited. It finally showed up and I proceeded to build it. Looked at the BB threads, very cobby, chased but it was almost like cutting new threads. My wrench said "yep, typical for SC". Spent over an hour cleaning shavings out of frame and facing everything. Annoyed at front derail cable stop being so low I was forced to use a Shimano derail (had a black x-gen already)Got it all built and went for a ride. Hit the steeps, went to put seat down, but no go. It dropped all of 2 inches. "WTF" said I as I struggled down the trail. Sent it back to SC with assurances it would be fixed. Came back to me very much the way it it left, with me being told by SC that the seat post does not go down all the way due to internal butting in seat tube. Funny, but the seat post stops right wear the welds are for the linkage on the outside of the seat tube. OK, time to re-assemble and possibly chop the seat post down. Spend more time cleaning shavings and crud out of the frame. Go to re-install the BB, and notice threads in BB shell nicely gnarled. As it is Friday night and LBS wrench is home and I don't own a BB tap, I give it a shot with plenty of lube, but no go (screw up the BB cup threads tho...swell!). So, no bike to ride and I'm going on week 5 of owning it. Bottom line: This bike rides great, no two ways about it(although I'd go for the Swinger over the Fox ProPedal): the overall geometry is much more forgiving than the Intense BUT, the Intense HAS THE SAME SUSPENSION (Willie and Rob of), Santa Cruz, SO WHY DOES THE SEAT POST GO ALL THE WAY DOWN ON THOSE FRAMES? And the Turner has welds on it's seat tube, but the post can be buried on that frame as well. And the BIG question is: why would one have an "all mountain" bike if one cannot ride "all of the mountain"? I live in a canyon; everything is either straight up or straight down. THis bike does the up great, but with a seat post and saddle in my way, the downs are tough. And why, at 1500 bucks a pop, does a guy have to clean and chase everything on a frame? And do it again after "customer service" is done with it? Sorry, but the bulk of the value chili's just got flushed, and they nabbed a couple of overall flamers on the spin down. After all is said and done, I'll get this bike up and running, but if I were to do it again, I'd go with another brand that has more empahsis on QC. If you're considering this bike, I'd give SC some time to get the bugs worked (and let's hope they do) 'cause I think it has great potential. It just ain't now...
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Submitted by
Michael White
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Daley Ranch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2999.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse
Strengths:
The bike is very light for a 5" travel bike. Tires grip the trail. Climbs great. Great crankset.
Weaknesses:
The manuals for the FOX shock and Fox Fork do not help in tuning for the riders weight and style.
Similar Products Used:
Currently own a Giant NRS and AC1. This Blur LT is a perfect all around mountain bike.
Bike Setup:
REAR DER Shimano M750 SGS (XT) FRONT DER Shimano M760 (XT) SHIFTERS Shimano M750 Rapid Fire (XT) CRANKSET Shimano M760 22/32/44 (XT) BOTTOM BRACKET Included w/Crankset CASSETTE Shimono M750 11/34 (XT) CHAIN Shimano HG 93 (XTR) BRAKES Avid Juicy 7's w/6" rotors BRAKE LEVERS Avid Juicys BARS Easton EC 70 MonkeyLite XC STEM Easton EA 50 GRIPS Lizard Skin Logo HEADSET Cane Creek S2 SEAT POST Easton EA 70 SADDLE WTB Rocket V Team WHEELS DT XR 4.1d rims laced to DT Onyx hubs w/DT 14/15 spokes TIRES Kenda Nevegal 2.1 folding TUBES Kenda Ultralite
Bottom Line:
This is a great all around Mountain bike. It has helped me bring my riding up to the next level.
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Submitted by
Benja
a Cross Country Rider
from San Frandisco, CA Date Reviewed: August 23, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
CyclePaths
Strengths:
Incredibly plush, totally usable travel, light weight, great climber. Great bike for fast technical riders.
Weaknesses:
Pricey...?
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR and a ton of older, wacker bouncy bikes.
Bike Setup:
Med black ano, Fox front and rear, Juicy7's, XT drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
So amazing to ride a bike that climbs this well yet handles hits small and large like such pure velvet. I rented it for a long weekend in Tahoe and was sold on the first ride. The bike hooks up and climbs like a goat, but is just rediculously plush going down. We put in two 30+ mile days and this bike upped the fun factor by a huge margin. I've been a hardtail riding weight geek since 1986 and I can say for certain that the Blur LT will be the first FS bike I own. Part of me says I should check out the XC, but really, why bother. The LT does it all so well.
Props to Cycle Paths in Tahoe for the sick rentals!
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Submitted by
Carlos
a Weekend Warrior
from Scarsdale, NY Date Reviewed: August 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Somewhere in Santa Cruz, CA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
Sierra
Strengths:
Lightest most efficient long travel bike ever. Beautiful finishing details and build quality. Ability to drop down seat post all the way. Perfect dual XC/FR bike
Weaknesses:
Price?
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Pro, Enduro Pro, Enduro S-Works
Bike Setup:
Fox 36 RC2, XTR derrailers, XTR shifters, XTR brakes, Chris King hubs and headset, Avid rotors. Thomson Elite Stem and seat post. Truvativ 31.8 Carbon handlebar. Fizik Gobi seat
Bottom Line:
I was a Specialized loyal fun but after trying the Santa Cruz Blur LT, I converted!! Rides better than the new S-Works Enduro (i use same fork) and comes at 4lbs lighter. I haven't found anything better for an agresssive XC/FR rider like me (6'1" 200lbs) that likes to pedal all the way up too.
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Submitted by
Pat Sansbond
a Racer
from Newburgh Ny Date Reviewed: July 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Cron-bonamer
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Darkhorse cycles
Strengths:
Durability,versatility,weight,warrenty, and overall evolution of virtual piviot point technology associated with santa cruz/blur
Weaknesses:
?
Similar Products Used:
trek ex9, y33 superlite, specialized s-works
Bike Setup:
reba up front, rp3 in the rear...top notch race face crank,bars stem, 04 xtr all ove and 05 mavic xl 's wit kenda nevagals
Bottom Line:
BOTTOM LINE LINE IS I WORK BIKES FOR FUN!I AM 5"8 AND A LEAN 170 AND I HIT 5 AND 6 FOOT DROPS AT SPEEDS MOST DONT DARE ON STABLE DOUBLE-WIDES....I'LL HUCK THESE DROPS ALL WEEK AND THEN CRUSH 20MILE NORBA SANCTION'D RACES ON THE WEEKEND WITH THE SAME SNUG AGILE FAST FEEL THAT IT HAD THE DAY WE MET....I HAVE YET TO CASE THE SUSPENSION OR FEEL ANYTHING REMOTELY UNEXPECTED. I SIT AND MASH ON THIS RIG ON A DAILY BASIS, WHETHER ITS INNER CITY 7-10 FOOT CEMENT STAIR CASE DROPS OR ORANGE COUNTY'S MOST TECHNICAL DOWNHILL DECENTS. IM DO'N IT AND DO'N RIGHT ON MY 05 BLUR. IF YOU HAVE PLATAUED OUT ON YOUR CURRENT RIDE AND YOUR LOOK'N 2 BE ON SOMETHING THAT FAR EXCEEDES YOUR EXPECTATIONS COP A BLUR AND BUILD IT UP RIGHT!
$
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