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Submitted by
joel marlenty
a Downhiller
from usa
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | suncoast | | Strengths: | everything, just needs a easier back shock to adjust. and when you jump or drop, it has a very solid rebound.. so you dont sink and bottom out, or you dont fling back up and bounce. | | Weaknesses: | bottoms out on 10 foot drops, im 120 pounds, thats it. | | Bike Setup: | Completely stock | | Bottom Line: | Great bike!! looks great, for its weight, it is a very easy bike to push around. awesome bike even when fully stock. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jeff
a Downhiller
from ellington, ct
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Case Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bloomfield Bike in 2001 | | Strengths: | until this year - highly reliable | | Weaknesses: | Rear Shock really hard to set | | Bike Setup: | Post broke first year - the one they replaced with is great. Just changed saddle to Azonic love seat - it is mint. | | Bottom Line: | until this year bike has been awesome - but repairs this year are killing me.
Had to replace the shock. Broke the frame in half yesterday. need to replace the pedals - the platform broke off both. The Hanger went. Front shocks are leaking.
For riding the way I did for the last 4 years - the bike owes me nothing - but its just wierd that EVERYTHING went over the course of 3 months. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from United Kingdom
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | For frame and shock only | | Strengths: | THIS IS FOR A 2002 AC TEAM FRAMESET WITH 2004 Manitou Swinger 4way coil shock.
Weight for travel. Solidness over rough stuff. Kickass paint job. | | Weaknesses: | Ugly asymetric chainstays. And Rear heaviness, compared to the front the back end weighs a tonne. Bit of brake Jack. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Hecklar, Titus Switchblade, Marin Wolf Ridge, Specialised Enduro. | | Bike Setup: | Psylo Race's, Hope stuff all round, and a pair of M4's for stopping, bit of race face in there too. | | Bottom Line: | THIS IS FOR A 2002 AC TEAM FRAMESET WITH 2004 Manitou Swinger 4way coil shock.
^^^^To make that clear.^^^^
Rides well for weight, as I said a bit of brake jack but then thats expected (not as bad as the enduro I used to own), also makes quite a heavy back end (thats with a Hope Bulb on a 317Disc rim) but all up weighs around the 32lb mark (thats with 2.6" Nokian gazzaloddi tyres, it would weigh more like 29lb with some sensable trail tyres on).
The Manitou shock makes it soo much more ridable with the 4way adjustability and the SPV valve. I either run it with a high pressure in the SPV chamber and high volume, for general trail riding, as it makes it pedal very well, but lacks small bump responce and does not bottom out. And for frequent DH runs I drop out 40psi from the chamber and lock it right down to max bottom out resistance, which makes it very supple, and very responsive but no use for climbing.
Bottom Line (seriously) I like, have riden a fair few 5-6" rigs and this I like, (mainly the paint job).
I give it 5smoking Chillis for value (I paid £200 for a used one, they were only £900 new back in the day).
And 4Smoking Chillis overall, as the back end does require some set up for different things.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a Weekend Warrior
from Wales UK
Date Reviewed: December 1, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | Strong, adjustable and reasonable weight | | Weaknesses: | Interupted seattube | | Similar Products Used: | i-drive | | Bike Setup: | AC-1 frame, Psylo SL's, Hope M4 Mono's, Raceface Turbines, XM519's on XT hubs, 850lb eibach spring, controltech stem and blackspire triple rings. | | Bottom Line: | When I decided to change frames I wanted one bike to do all reasonably well rather than purchasing two or more bikes. Having ridden it a few times I feel the AC-1 specced with mostly XC parts does the job admirably and exceeds my expectations in certain areas.
I've set the spring rate to my weight in 6inch mode as I thought that I would just leave the bike in this setting. How wrong I could have been. When moved to the 4 inch setting the suspension stiffens up so much that it feels like a short 2 inch travel bike and as the rear end is so stiff laterally the bike accellerates and climbs far better than I expected. It feels like a 26lb softail when climbing. The little give there is just right to give you the extra traction of a susser but there is no noticable bob at all.
I usually ride with a mixed group of riders, XC whippets, trail riders and newcomers of various fitness levels, and whilst never first to the top, I'm a lot closer on the Giant than I was on my GT.
At the top I put it into the 6 in setting (20 secs) and then blast down the hill. All the posts on here more than cover the DH abilities of this bike.
On road is also reasonably fast, I close the rebound damping on the back and lock out the front. After the bike sags, it feels just like a hardtail.
If your solely into one mountain bike discapline then there are better bikes around, however, as an allaround bike I can't fault the AC-1 and for the price it's fantastic. I've managed to build mine up with high end parts for around £1000, if I was in the states it would probably cost the same in dollars.
All in all I'm delighted. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cnt._Huckula
a Downhiller
from NB
Date Reviewed: April 25, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Rockwood Park | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Works | | Strengths: | -Pedals decently
-flows through rolly terain,pumps well
-a capable climber | | Weaknesses: | -Eats derailures for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
-Tends to bob if you dont conciously tame it
-A little weak for hucks, and big drops | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX970, Da Bomb Mindbomb, Kona Stinky | | Bike Setup: | Jr. T, Ryno lites, Avid mech. up front, Deore mech. in the rear, Truvativ hussefelt cranks, xt/lx group | | Bottom Line: | I paid for this frameset to replace the lifetime warentied frame i previously owned, so this review can only aply to the frameset.
I think this bike finds it self on a very fine line, does it apeal to the free rider or is it the xc rider looking for a softer rear end. I would have to contend it be the later.
For me, a 190lbs freerider i found the bike to be a rocket ship through a rough single track or buttery off of 5 footers. The frame did have noticable flex on skinies when body english was involved.
I bent or broke the bolt holding the top end of the shock more then once, and managed to blow a weld on the chainstey. Derailures and dropouts where getting to be a bi-weekly purchase. All of this has led me to beleive there just isn't enough of a bike there for the burlier of freeriders.
However this bike would be an excellent purchase for the xc rider looking to move up to a softer ride, or mabe a freeriders cross country.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jos baldewijns
a Cross Country Rider
from antwerp, belgium
Date Reviewed: March 11, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | el signor,lake garda,italy | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | its all in the name "All Conditions"
a very versatile bike
good climb, smooth going down | | Weaknesses: | what every owner says: the damn seatpost ( for 2004 giant solved this problem ) | | Similar Products Used: | also own an nrs air and a cube ams, but those are xc and enduro | | Bike Setup: | bought as a frame set, marzo Z1 FR QR20,north shore DH cranks,diabolus stem and bar, XT 205mm brakes,DEEMAX wheels | | Bottom Line: | this is a freeride light bike, with 16 kilos,a machine that climbs ,relatively,like a goat. very good for the work in the alps or at lake garda, italy.
altough, i doubt he could handle the really heavy (downhill)stuff.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wade Kellogg
a Downhiller
from Denver, CO USA
Date Reviewed: February 16, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Golden Gate Canyon State Park | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Westside Cycling and Fitness | | Strengths: | Pretty good stock set-up | | Weaknesses: | Grips, seat, post, stem; I don't understand why Giant didn't put more travel on this bike (they have gone to more travel on the '04 model) | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain RM7; Rocky Mountain Switch | | Bike Setup: | Azonic Hammer stem; Azonic Love Seat; Azonic A-frame platform pedals; Stan's tubeless conversion (this is a GREAT product); Lizard Skins chainstay guard; Marzocchi '03 Super T's; SGF Components 7" rocker arms (SGF will replace these if you break them and they guarantee that the 7" of travel is the maximum amount you can get without bottoming-out, unlike the BETD 7.5" rocker arms which will bottom-out on the seat clamp. Go to SGFcomponents.com to get them); Odi lock-on grips
| | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike to start out with. It handles well. The Hayes hydraulic brakes were my first experience with hydraulic brakes. They are good brakes. Overall, the bike performs well stock. It climbs like a mule despite the weight (that is until I put on the extra travel). You really can't go wrong with this bike unless you are looking to do some serious corss-country or are a hard-core downhiller/freerider who does 15' + drops. I, at 185 lb. found that I bottomed-out on 7' drops before I decided I needed more travel. I've yet to ride this bike on a professional downhill course, however, I have ridden some pretty serious stuff and it is a really plush ride. Bottom line if you are someone who is really hard on sh*t and breaks stuff, this is a great bike to start out with. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Shiels
a Weekend Warrior
from Kamloops
Date Reviewed: January 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | anything and everything | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | fun stuff | | Strengths: | way stronger than the Warp ds3 i broke. got the frame under warranty and there is pretty much nothing stock on the bike, plush ride good shock adjustment. | | Weaknesses: | a bit too much chain slap but i will probably get some kind of guide down the road, otherwise perfect. | | Similar Products Used: | 02 Giant warp ds3 | | Bike Setup: | 04 Marzocchi Drop Off II, Sun Rims Doubletracks, Stout 2.6 on front, Wtb Motoraptor 2.4 on rear, deore derailers, stx shifters,Avid Discs 8" with avid levers,yeti lock on grips, axiom seatpost with NRG saddle. only thing that remains from my warp is the sh%^@y cranks and the stem and bar, but not for long. | | Bottom Line: | great bike for any conditions, i havn't ridden much but it seems perfect for me, i might get an 850 spring for the pro delux, i'm a little on the heavy side at 6'4, 225. I would reconmend that if you have a warp that may be broken, trade it in for the Ac. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Brant
a Downhiller
from Canmore,ALberta,Canada
Date Reviewed: December 19, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Whistler | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Rebound Cycle(prodeal) | | Strengths: | Awesome all round bike thats great for free riding, I would not use for DH racing. | | Weaknesses: | not very happy with the Hayes Comps. Saddle a little uncomfortable. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX DH, MCM 990 | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock. New paint job and custom decals. 888 up frontwhich makes the bike a little raked. Hope to get Hope Brakes Mono 4. LOve my Michelin tyres(had them siped for better traction) 2.8 up front and 2.5 in rear. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great all round bike that is not afraid to go big.
I have raced at the pro level, but after I had quit Idid not want something that was as heavy. I ride mostly free ride now and I ride hard. Have put a couple a days up at Whistler and the bike took everything I threw at it. This past summer I had a Super T 03, now I have upgraded to 888's
Can't wait to ride those next year. I know Giant says they don't warrenty these bike if you put A Dc fork on it but oh well. If they don't I'll try another bike from a diff. company and they'll lose my business.
But this BIKE rocks and I hope it lasts.
Oh ya would also like to get BETD rear suspension plates to upgrade to 7" in the rear. I'd like 8" in the rear though(stop laughing)
Later | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don
a Cross Country Rider
from Miramichi NB, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Cregan's Gluch @ French Fort Cove | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Incline Sports | | Strengths: | Strong frame, Shiver forks, Hayes Discs brakes, Race Face BB and DH cranks, Shimano Xtr / Xt / Lx comps. Titec components. Excellent controll. Easy to setup. Quick change rear travel. | | Weaknesses: | Rock Shocks Pro Deluxe. Leaked after the 2nd ride. Returned for service and new seals installed. Service dept said a lot of the 2002's with the AC 1. New seal kit will last much longer. Been out on 2 trail rides since and they are working great. I hope they hold out. | | Similar Products Used: | 2003 Giant Rainer. Had 150 miles on it and traded it on the AC 1. | | Bike Setup: | Wellgo's WPD M9 clipless pedals, Maxxis 2.35s, Fox 850lb Spring and 130mm stiff front springs. Rear travel set to 5.15" | | Bottom Line: | WOW!!! This bike rocks. It can really improve your skills and is so stable at going downhill you have to be carefull not to over do it. This bike is so forgiving at going fast that it gives you more confidence in all XC rides. I'm able to go faster and stay out longer on all trail sections compared to the Giant Rainer hardtail. I highly recommend this bike to any of the bigger guys out there who think they can't find or get a full suspension trail bike that can handle the extra weight. If you think your stuck to riding only hardtails because of your weight then this bike is for you. This bike can handle the roughest trails, climbs and downhills with such ease that you'll understand why full suspension is so much fun. I truly admire the Giant AC 1. Bravo Giant, Bravo | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dan cocharo
a Downhiller
from colorado
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | anglefire downhill | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | campus cycles | | Strengths: | it is a great mountain x bike and it has a good suspension design, it has pretty good components on it and it is affordable. | | Weaknesses: | i do not like the shiver on fork | | Bike Setup: | all stock setup | | Bottom Line: | it is a good mountain x bike and is a pretty good price. i would buy one if i was into mountain x. it was my friends but i rode it a little bit. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
trev
a Weekend Warrior
from Fukuoka, Japan
Date Reviewed: May 6, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Mount Takasu, Kyushu, Japan | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Hong Kong | | Strengths: | Very versatile, reasonably light, climbs well for a freerider, good component selection. The travel adjustment on the rear suspension is useful, but not really essential. | | Weaknesses: | Lack of seatpost adjustment, crappy stem, tyres. Seat should be outlawed under the Geneva Convention. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Big Hit, Specialized FSR, Trek VRX400, Giant NRS | | Bike Setup: | Sold the Shiver to a mate and put in an RS Psylo for the adjustability. Changed the creaky little stem for a three bolt job, biffed the seat. Fitted a telescopic seatpost. Swapped to 6" brakes and XC wheels. Biffed the tyres and fitted WTB Motoraptors. | | Bottom Line: | Excellent all round bike. I really liked the Shivers, but they were kinda heavy. I'm more of a rough trail rider than a freerider, so this bike was overbuilt for what I do. I did a deal with a mate and swapped forks, brakes, and wheels, plus a nice pile of cash. That chopped the weight down to under 30 pounds, mostly from the wheels and tyres. Much faster on XC stuff, and still descends ok. On long climbs it's pretty reasonable for what it is. Not an XC racer, but handles any terrain very competently. My mate's Big Hit descends much better, mostly due to tyres and forks, but the Specialized rear suspension is better. The 8" brakes were fantastic, but had to swap them with the fork (would have had to buy a bunch of adapters to get everything to fit otherwise). I now have 6" Hayes, which are more than adequate for what I do.
The lack of saddle height adjustment is a big problem. I made a telescopic seatpost which gives about 6 inches adjustment. Norco sell telescopic seatposts, so I'd highly recommend getting one.
The saddle is up there with the most uncomfortable things I've ever tried.
In the 4.5 inch travel setting I don't really notice much bob, except in the big ring. The 6 inch setting is much softer, and easier on rough terrain. It's well worth spending some time adjusting the damping and trying different suspension setups. On rough climbs out of the saddle, the grip is pretty good.
The stock tyres were simply horrible on anything except dry hardpack. Very heavy to spin up on the road or flat singletrack, and lacked grip. I'm going to try a few different tyres, but the Motoraptors were a big improvement.
As a versatile all round fun bike, I highly recommend this. Not a DH bike, not an XC bike, but handles everything very competently. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Thousand Oaks
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Bottom Line: | Another follow-up:
The AC may be a good freeride bike, but it's no downhill rig. The frame is too lightweight, needs several more pounds of aluminum if you really want to thrash it. Recently dumped the Shiver for a '03 Super-T, talk about a huge improvement. Climbing sucks now (can't keep the front wheel on the ground), but for everything else it is truly awesome. Considering a Chris King Steel-Set to beef up the head tube, concerned the the drops and high-speed across rough terrain that the Super-T allows will split or egg out the head tube. Still very happy with the bike, but starting to wonder if I should have gone with something beefier instead of trying to keep this one together. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DARNICKLE
a Cross Country Rider
from EMERYVILLE, CA USA
Date Reviewed: April 3, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | mammoth | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | craigslist | | Strengths: | This bike is BEEFIE and gives a sense that it and its rider are indestructable. Great component mix! Swopped out the seat post to Easton, Stem to Azonic Shorty, Hubs to Profile 20mm (front and back), pedals to ATAC and clamp on grips. Oh yeah, I swopped the rear shock for an SID air (better for cross country riding). The adjustable rear travel is great and easy to change (would be better with quick release). I wanted a bike that I could use as a trail bike and some moderate downhilling - this is it (GREAT PRICE). | | Weaknesses: | VERY HEAVY! I realize that it needs to be to take the big hits, but is there a "light" big hit bike out there. Not fun going up hill, but coming down is a rocket ride.
Creak coming from the rear swingarms. I found out that one of the spacers under the bearings wasnt set properly. Once set properly, bike is quiet as can be, but it took me forever to find the creak. | | Similar Products Used: | Raven, Scwhinn s-10, Tomac titanium. | | Bike Setup: | azonic stem, race face cranks (set with chainguard), atac pedals, hell bent handlebars. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike, great price!!! Compromise is weight, but is probably one of the best huckster options out there right now. I would recommend it for heavy riders or moderate downhillers. Light riders should go with something a little lighter if you can. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Thousand Oaks CA
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Weaknesses: | Wish the seatpost adjustment had more range (interrupted seat tube), can't drop it as low as I'd like and still keep the seatpost long enough for full extension when climbing. | | Bottom Line: | This is another follow up: don't try to eliminate the shim in the seatpost, you'll barely be able to adjust the seat up and down. Looks like the shim is there to help the seatpost miss the first part of the interrupted seat tube, take it out and you lose at least an inch of the mere two inches or so there is to begin with.
Running a 50mm Azonic Shorty stem (the Titec Big Al started creaking) and Azonic A-Frame pedals now, working great.
Love the Shiver.
The coil in the Rock Shox Pro Delux is rubbing on the shock body, I only weigh 160 so it's not like I'm overloading it. I did have to max out the preload to get the recommended sag though, so maybe it is too soft at the 6" setting. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Date Reviewed: February 3, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | Shiver fork, ride quality, handling (weight distribution and geometry), adjustable rear suspension, tough build on frame, hayes brakes. | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost & shim | | Similar Products Used: | Lots | | Bike Setup: | Stock - so far. A new seatpost isn't far away. | | Bottom Line: | My first duallie, after much messing about and waiting... This bike does everything it should exceptionally. Descending and braking are great. Climbing is good - lockout on fork helps a lot. Weight is the significant factor when the terrain gets steeper. Climbing traction is massive and helps in negotiating technical stuff. Very plush on jumps and controllable in the air - probably due to well matched suspension components and weight distribution between the wheels. Great balance on bike between predictable handling and stability. Might be slightly slow in steering (copared to a hardtailXC), but with the increase in speed, this is not a bad thing. At slower speeds, moving forward over fork works well. The brakes are very well modulated and predictable. The seatpost is the weak link here. On a Medium (18") frame, I have a fair bit of post hanging out of the frame (I am 6') - that is a big lever. The shim only goes so far into the frame and the rest of the post never makes contact with the tubing. This seems to me like a recipie for bending/cracking the seatpost or the tube. Not a hard thing to fix though - get the right diameter post!
The ride on the bike is very easy to get used to. The usability of this bike is huge - there is (pretty much) nothing it cannot do. The AC1 would suit anyone who is serious about challenging terrain and having maximum fun. A change of tyres is all you need for a great all-day-ride. This is not a race bike (either XC or DH) but you could have a hell of a lot of fun trying! Thanks to Chris (and Elenor) in Gladstone for the help! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Thousand Oaks, CA
Date Reviewed: January 28, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1899.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel World | | Strengths: | Almost everything, awesome. Lightweight for what it is. | | Weaknesses: | Didn't trust the Titec seatpost after reading some reviews, replaced it with a full diameter Synchros. Rear derailleur needed adjustment after three months of riding, probably just cable stretch. Bent derailleur hanger somehow, probably skipped it off a rock. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Continental Vertical Pros and Synchros seatpost. | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow-up report, had it for 3 months now. Becoming more nimble the more I ride it (3 mos), starting to increase the rear compression adjustment on the downhills for more precision at speed. It's a damn rocket, I find myself gunning for the rocky sections instead of steering around them. Could be the death of me yet, adding a new piece of body armor about once a month...can see BETD plates and a full motorcross helmet in the not so distant future. Climbs extremely well with the Shiver locked out and the rear compression adjustment maxed out (rebound left on light setting, I'm 160 lbs). I drool just thinking about riding it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christopher Van Hulsentop
a Downhiller
from Townsville, QLD, AUS
Date Reviewed: January 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Oceania | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Tonys bikes | | Strengths: | First off, i brought the frame only so i am going to concentrate on the frame, not the parts.
--> Great Travel Adjustability
--> Nice Rear Shock (A vanilla RC with a different label)
--> Looks
--> Gusseted like mad
--> Great geometry
--> Little bob when sitting down
--> Looks
--> Has chainguide mounts | | Weaknesses: | The only one i can think of is that it is an alloy frame, a cromoloy one would be nicer, but considering what this bike is ment for it wouldn't be appropriate | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first duallie, but as i work at a bike shop i have tested many | | Bike Setup: | D521 Rims, Manitou Xvert T fork (intend to upgrade to 03 Boxxer Race, Hussefelt 2 Guide, XT Levers and Shifter, Deore Hollowtech Crank, Deore derailler and hubs, Hayes CD Rear, XT V-Brake front, Azonic Fusion Pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike feels very nice, rear shock feels as plush as some 8" travel bikes, while i am yet to bottom it out (it has taken a 7 foot drop onto flat concrete with ease). Nothing on the trails slows this bike down it will keep going no matter what you throw at. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Downhiller
from Perth Western Australia
Date Reviewed: January 6, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Dwellingup | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | BikeForce Joondalup | | Strengths: | Though it is not a dedicated downhill bike the frame rocks.
All bits on the bike are non standard . | | Weaknesses: | Pro Delux shock. Though it took a fair amount of abuse for the 1st 4 months now that i am hitting things harder it is not up to the task. One week after rebuild it is leaking. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky.Craftworks | | Bike Setup: | Boxxers up front.Aireal Industries chain device,stem,hubs.(do yourself a favor and use this gear it is tough)Hayse purple mag disc brakes.BETD 7and a half rear linkage.Dice 26 rims.Race Face Prodigy DH cranks. | | Bottom Line: | The frame puts up with more than it should.Rides beautifully and takes jumps with ease.
One word of advice if you go for an aftermarket rear linkage offering more than standard travel be prepared to order a custom wind spring. I am having to get a 1150 lb spring for the back as the 950lb spring bottomed out on the first jump. This could be part way because of the Pro delux shock(get a fox RC)but in 6inch setting it is a rocket :)
With the standard setup it is a first class freeride machine but with a bit of messing around it is a downhill weapon. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Nor-Cal
Date Reviewed: January 4, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything Downhill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Cant tell | | Strengths: | XTR rear components, XT front. Hayes 8" brakes (could stop a train) Even though most people hate it, the RS Pro shock works great, It's very noticable in the adjustments. Marzocchi fork. | | Weaknesses: | Even though it's a Marzocchi, the Shiver has a lot of flex. But I cant feel it on the trail, but missing 10mm from the Z1, and the extra weight does not make sense in my book.
Some people complain about the weight, it dosen bother me, i'm used to riding a singlespeed. | | Similar Products Used: | None, this is my first full suspension bike. | | Bike Setup: | Shorter seatpost, different seat, and different shifters. | | Bottom Line: | This is my first full suspension bike. I am in love with it. I havent had much of a chance to thrash it yet, but it rides like I could never break it. I expected it to be very mushy while pedaling, which it is. I used to ride a single speed, so getting it up the hill is not the problem, having to reset my comfort zone is. The bike is the most forgiving bike when going downhill. You dont need to have the perfect line, if there are rocks in your way, go over them. The other thing that I am having a hard time getting used to is being one of the first to the bottom :) I do wish that the bike had a Z1 on it. I might sell the Shiver for a Sherman or try to get one of the 6" z1's when they come out, but I still love the bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Clarksville, Tn, USA
Date Reviewed: December 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Any with big air and drops | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1899.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel World VIA Internet | | Strengths: | This bike is solidly built. I am new to free riding and intend to use this bike for light trail riding and some free riding. The shiver fork and Hayes disc brakes are unbeatable. The option of 4-6 inches of travel makes the bike very adaptable to different riding conditions. | | Weaknesses: | The biggest weakness of this entire rig is the bike shop and Kyle, the sales person I dealt with, where I bought the bike. I am deployed overseas in support of OEF and cannot get a bike where I am and I really wanted an AC1, so when Wheel World agreed to sell me this AC1 online I was very grateful. Unfortunately they took advantage of the fact that I was away and sent an obviously used and/or damaged bike, probably one the shop could not move off their floor. Neither Wheel World nor Kyle has shown any interest in helping me resolve this situation. My only advice is not to buy from Wheel World. Other than that the seat is kind of cheap but that is expected and will be replaced by the weekend and the front brake line routing sucks and should be routed behind the fork, again it will be fixed by the weekend.
| | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Bullit which now I should have bought. They have better customer service | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike is very versatile for those of us that cannot buy specific bikes to meet different riding conditions. It is one of the most affordable high-end free ride bikes there is and I highly recommend anyone to buy on. Only don't buy at Wheel world. Over all rating also reflects the poor service that was given by the bike dealer. Thanks MTBR | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Thousand Oaks, CA
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1899.00 | | Purchased At: | WheelWorld - Santa Monica | | Strengths: | Love it so far! Overbuilt, but that's why I choose it. | | Weaknesses: | None yet, though a chainstay gouged pretty easy when I put it on it's side (against a rock I suppose) while getting used to the clipless pedals. Shiver fork should have a guide for the front brake line toward the top of the tube, I taped on a short piece of wiring loom. Works great now. Didn't care for the seat too much, traded it for a wider one. | | Similar Products Used: | None, last bike was a Bridgestone MB-3 with early Trek suspension forks. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, though I'll be removing about 1,000g per wheel by switching to Continental Vertical Protection tires and Stan's No-Tubes. | | Bottom Line: | Bobs going up hills, though the fork lockout works great and maxing out the rear compression adjustment calms the rear down quite a bit. I wanted a reasonably capable XC bike that could still take decent sized drops without any fear of breakage, I think that's what I'll have once the lighter tires are installed. The extra weight all becomes worthwhile once you turn it downhill. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tristan Calvo
a Downhiller
from Coquitlam
Date Reviewed: October 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Wood lto | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Sports junkies | | Strengths: | This bike is one great ride my brother has a norco team dh
and it kicks ass compared to his | | Weaknesses: | none not enough time to ride on the weekend | | Similar Products Used: | norco team dh brodie devo | | Bottom Line: | one great bike would not buy or trade for any thing well maybe a Giant team Dh | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JK
a Weekend Warrior
from Hong Kong
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Good platform upon which to build a great trail-rig.
Great brakes
Good component spec except for hubs and pedals. | | Weaknesses: | Regarding the RS Shock...
* Poor sealing
* Inferior damping
* Top-out clunk
* Blew after 6mths / 800km trail riding
Formula Rear Hub
* freewheel mechanism destructed after 2mths / 450km trail riding
Spec Tyres - waaaaay too heavy for a trail rig.
Rear brakes suffer squeal that is almost impossible to rectify
Cheesy plastic pedals | | Similar Products Used: | lots... | | Bike Setup: | Stratos Helix Pro (excellent)
Hope rear hub (excellent)
Mavic 521 rims (excellent)
Shimano 545 SPD pedals
RaceFace 2 cranks less the 44T ring plus 32T rockring. | | Bottom Line: | Service the Shiver SC and use 5wt oil... way less stiction. Use slightly less oil than recommended and enjoy the full 120mm of travel.
Ditch inferior components as they fail and upgrade to bomb-proof ones and lose some weight inthe process.
Other than these gripes, I am very happy with the ride so far. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete
a Weekend Warrior
from Milford, MA
Date Reviewed: October 23, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | weekdays at Vietnam with some weekend downhill trips and Lynn woods if i can get there. | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Milford Bike | | Strengths: | Frame,Hayes hyd w/ 8",Race Face w/ bash , Xt & XTR | | Weaknesses: | Rhino lytes, front and rear shock | | Similar Products Used: | This is my 4th giant, but i would say Tomac six shooter, Stinky five,& (with thinner tires) an Ellesworth ID | | Bike Setup: | stock except: 250lb rear spring, ODI's, heavier weight oil front shock. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike,I've been real satisfied, this is the fourth Giant I've owned. No problem climbing most stuff, although it is heavy. Your not going to follow a xc guy up a real tech incline. The 2.5 Michs are too wide but I love the stable feel and decided to keep them and sacrifice some climbs. The real issue I have is trying to adjust both shocks. The rear is either too soft or too firm, when I finally get it right I get a "ticking" sound from the bobbing. Some day I'll get a Fox but I guess thats how
Giant kept the cost down. The heavier weight spring is great for downhilling (P'kill and Mt Snow) and fr'ing around vietnam. I have never used the 5 and 4 inch settings but I like having them,I keep telling myself I'll use them some day. The front Shiver sc needs a heavier oil and the adjustments are useless. The shock gives you a smooth 5" (and looks cool) but I wish I had the Dirt Jumper or a Sherman.
For real technical rolling trails with lots of drops (3'-5')this is the perfect bike for the money no ones even close. I'm an aggressive rider with limited skills but ride 3-4 times per week. I'm on a large frame, 19" (6'3" 195)and beat the bike up pretty good (crashing and use).
I,m happy I got this model,the 2003 look a little wierd, have not seen one in person yet. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Weekend Warrior
from Katy, TX USA
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1550.00 | | Purchased At: | MTBR Classifieds | | Strengths: | Strong frame, stiff to plush suspension depending on the setup, takes a beating and loves it, descends like a bat outta hell | | Weaknesses: | None so far | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR drivetrain/brake levers, factory Shimano cables/housings, Avid CPS disc brakes, Rock Shox Psylo XC, Shimano 858 SPDs, Monkeylite riser, Michelin 2.1 Wildgripper Hot S, WTB Laser V saddle, Easton seatpost, Sun RynoLite rims | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow-up review. Had the bike for 3 months now with about 40-50 rides on it. You can't go wrong for the money. The bike loves to descend without a whimper. Soaks up the big roots, ruts, n rocks and begs for more. Tighter singletrack is a bit trickier due to the slightly slack head angle but can be overcome with a bit of experimentation with technique and riding position. Took me a bit to dial the twisties in but now I can hang with my XC buddies no prob. Climbs quite well for a dualie...I have to work a little harder to keep up with the XC crew but I can do it (conditioning/technique)...then on the downhills I give them a sneaky grin n wave as I fly by em while they're negotiating the. I can point it downhill and let fly cuz the frame and suspension just eat up the terrain...no particular line needed. Another sweet aspect of this rig is the wide range of adjustments available to the suspension. I use 4.5" in the rear for local trailriding and 4" on the Psylo (The stock fork is a Marzzochi Shiver 5" no adjust). In the 4.5 rear setting the shock is quite stiff and pedal transfer is direct..the thing launches forward with each stroke. The 5.15 and 6" setting provides plush bump sucking and moderate hucking capabilities. I've done 6' drops to level groung and the 6 inches soaked em up no prob. The stock setup leans more to the freeride side but with another fully adjustable for instead of the Marzzochi it can be ridden in a XC setting quite well due to the range of suspension setup options ...really! With the Easton bar, XTR drivetrain/levers, Avid CPS discs, and 2.1s (instead of the stock 2.5s), I've shaved the weight down to a bit under 30lbs (vs 31.5 as noted stock by Giant) so it is now quite light for an all conditions rig. I can honestly say I've made a good choice with this rig. It rides great, has a strong frame w/ a sweet geometry, and nothing has broken. Granted, I've tweaked it a bit to be lighter and more versatile but you can't go wrong even with the stock setup...especially if you are heavier or lean to the freeride end of riding. Go get one if you're considering a great rig but don't want to spend over $3000.00. Still...5 flaming chili dog turds for the AC1. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a Downhiller
from La Vista, NE(unfortunatly)
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Aspen, CO | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain reaction | | Strengths: | Great value for the money! Loves to go downhill! Smooth handling. | | Weaknesses: | Does not climb very well at all. Slugish on sequental up/ downs, and on switchbacks. Seatpost and seat not the best. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary fisher sugar, Klien mantra race. | | Bike Setup: | Eason bars, Kore stem, tompson seat post, rapid rise xtr, michillen hot s tyres. | | Bottom Line: | I am very pleased with the bike overall. Unfortunatly due to where I am the bike does not mesh well with the midwestern trails, or the rider. The bike was intended to go out west on downhills and tech stuff. I have no doubt this is where it will doo well. On the very short downhills here, the bike performs extremly smoothly! It does not like climbs or quick turns due to weight and geometry. I had to invest in a hardtail to be able to do the XC type trails here. The hayes brakes also take a while to break in but are very sweet! I also got a new seat post due to a lot of squeking from the stock post. Soaks up every very large obstacle put in front of it going downhill! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Racer
from Colorado Springs, CO, USA
Date Reviewed: October 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Pipeline | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Marzocchi Shiver SC, XT/XTR derailleurs, Rhyno Lites
| | Weaknesses: | Made in Taiwan, Stupid seat post shim, WTB saddle, Integrated headset BS.... | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain RM7, Santa Cruz Bullit | | Bike Setup: | stock, execpt for shortened seatpost and platform pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awe inspiring when used for its intended purpose (freeriding and light to moderate downhilling). Riding it uphill really sucks due to the heavy wheels and tires. Ride it in the 6" rear mode and prepare to be amazed. If you used to ride a hardtail or short travel FS bike it will take several hours to unlearn the limits that you have previously established to stay alive. The level of confidence this thing inspires is absolutely sick. The suspension is buttery smooth. This bike just begs to be abused, the faster and harder you bomb the thing the smoother it flies. My only concern is the made in Taiwan frame. So far so good, but the thing is only 3 days old. Only time will tell, Ill be sure to update you if I have future problems. For now 5 flaming chilies!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joseph paulsen
a Downhiller
from oyama japan
Date Reviewed: October 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | urban | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | local japanese shop | | Strengths: | this bike took everything i could give it.i am 6'4" 220 pounds and i railed the snot out of this bike. i upgraded to the betd 7 1/2" travel plates and the response from the suspension was better than anything i have ever felt. super light for a long travel, excellent value pound for dollar | | Weaknesses: | horrible warranty service. my fat ass cracked the frame and giant was not even willing to look at the bike.they said it was my fault (has anyone else seen their ad with the guy jumping off the ledge and they say their frames dont crack?) anyway, i got a local welder to fix it good as new. screw waranty. lack of size options. | | Similar Products Used: | rocky mountain dh team only | | Bike Setup: | titec bars, house stem, big boy seat, syncros post, double wide rims on xt disc hubsm hayes mechanical discs, hussefelt cranks,lx, xtr drivetrain,mrp spring,marzocchi wedge with 50 wt oil for slow damping | | Bottom Line: | if you want a great value, buy this bike! definitely! but if you are as big as me, you may want to reconsider, because if you break it, giant will not help you. even though i am out of a frame now, i was still very pleased with my experience and would reccommend this bike to anyone! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimmy
a Downhiller
from palo alto, california, USA
Date Reviewed: October 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | North Star | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Pacific Bikes | | Strengths: | Good for technical trials and big drops, great components for price, the sc shiver is almost as good as the dc shiver | | Weaknesses: | Hard to climb in 6" mode, Wheels heavy for any thing other than DH | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky, Specialized Big hit | | Bottom Line: | If you enjoy doing big drops and technical trails the this is the bike for you. I am 5' 4" and I ride the small (17) this bike is good for any sized person. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan Kochanek
a Downhiller
from Hometown, Ill USA
Date Reviewed: September 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | 3 Ravines | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle n Sport | | Strengths: | Very stable on stairs and anything very tech. Turning under braking very good. Great for any size person to ride. | | Weaknesses: | To heavy for climbing in the 6in mode. Not bad otherwise anywhere else. | | Similar Products Used: | Reminds me of my Yamaha 426F. Very stable at high speeds. | | Bike Setup: | Kona Pedals, serpa grips, 42lbs in tires. | | Bottom Line: | This bike, you should have to pay more money for, for what you are getting. You can give it the beating of a lifetime and it comes back for more. Haven't seen the 03 in person yet, but from the photos, I think I like mine better. Next bike will be Giants DH. Happy shopping... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fred Jorgensen
a Cross Country Rider
from North Vancouver. BC Canada
Date Reviewed: September 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Seventh Secret | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Giant | | Strengths: | Frame only.
Great maintenance free bearings.
Rock Shocks are good (surprise).
Good all round free ride bike.
Good value. | | Weaknesses: | Chainstay angled crossbar broke twice.
Not under warranty! (Beware!) | | Similar Products Used: | Ellsworth Joker (Better product, more money!) | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Black fork; Hayes disks;
Mavic 521 Rims. XTR. | | Bottom Line: | Good value, but lousy warranty! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
cody davenport
a
from prince r upert
Date Reviewed: September 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | cell tower in prince rupert | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | farwestsport and cycle | | Strengths: | evrything | | Weaknesses: | the cross bar on the swing arm | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky dee luxe | | Bike Setup: | rock shox marzochii | | Bottom Line: | ac air | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Byron
a
from Yigo, Guam
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | mostly urban | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | from a friend... | | Strengths: | very plush, loves to fly, and very durable... | | Weaknesses: | it wasn't free... | | Similar Products Used: | 99' giant warp ds 2 | | Bike Setup: | 2001 z1, rhyno lites, xt rear der., xtr dh cranks, avid mechanical discs | | Bottom Line: | my friend bought the frame and built it, i tried it out and i liked it. i been on it for almost 3 months and am loving it... i would like to change out the crank and get a smaller ring and bashguard. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
paul beavel
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver bc canada
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | neds | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle sport pacific | | Strengths: | very plush and great for hucking. the best bike i have ever had.this thing tracks like it is on rails. | | Weaknesses: | the swing arm but they put a new one on so i don't think i will have any more problems with it. | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky d both bikes are very close to the same frame shape and set up. | | Bike Setup: | funn stem ,mamath rims 2.65 tires in front 2.3 in rear,funn seat,funn fat boy slims for bars,jr t's 7 inches . | | Bottom Line: | i have just started riding with in the last year and i feel this bike has realy helped me become a better rider.i'm getting out there and ripping up the trails even though i'm mentaly handy caped. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Glenn Lowe
a Downhiller
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: August 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | any summer ski mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | rock and road | | Strengths: | front suspention rear suspention, change suspention in rear fast bike quick out of turns bes bike i ever had | | Weaknesses: | weight | | Similar Products Used: | giant ac2, giant dh comp, | | Bike Setup: | 6 in in front 5 in rear
| | Bottom Line: | I have had this bike for about 6 months and have found no problems with it. Its fast and you can do anything with it. I dh cc jump and love it in every case. I ride hard and always have and so far this is the best bike for me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a
from Katy, Texas, USA
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | mtbr classifieds | | Strengths: | Frame, brakes, suspension | | Weaknesses: | None so far | | Similar Products Used: | 2001 IronHourse Scout FS | | Bike Setup: | 2002 AC1 frame/shock, Avid CPS mechanical discs, XT drivetrain, Psylo XC (u-turn), 2.1 Michelin Wildgripper HotS front/rear | | Bottom Line: | I went from a $500.00 FS bike to this bad boy (MRSP $2300.00) which I got from MTBR classifieds. Man...you sure do get what you pay for! The gentleman I purchased from (thanx bro) set it up as a true dualie (XC-Freeride) with the Psylo, Avids, and 2.1 Wildgrippers. Just what I wanted as I do mostly XC but wanted more versatiliy if I ever needed it. Just took it out today after reassembly and tuning and this puppy ROCKS! There is no comparison to my previous rig..duh. The frame is rock solid with no flex and the geometry is super quick for an all conditions rig. The brakes work flawlessly and I'll never go back to Vs. The tires roll on rails as I immediately found myself ripping the trails at about 30% faster as soon as I got on it. I started with 4.5 in the rear with mid rebound/damping and 4 in the front with rebound at 6 and small (3-8 inch) obstacles were mere pebbles compared to my other XC FS rig. Bombs away down the trail!! Pick a line? What line. Just point it in the direction you want to go and thrash. I love this suspension. These type of obstacles would kick and vibrate my old rig if bombed but this new puppy didn't even notice em. Geez...the geometry enabled precise directional control, the suspension soaked up all before me, and the brakes were smooth as silk with a sweet feel and no fade, and the tires stuck like glue. All this meant blazing speeds so much so that for the first hour I was overshooting turns that I normally negotiated with no problem! Climbing? Set it up right and have some technique and you'll climb like a bumblebee on crack! Especially for dualie. This bike will make me and anyone on it a faster, better, and fearless rider. I highly recommend this rig. If you XC too, dump the 2.5s and Marzzochi Shiver (Hayes are fine but a little pricier) and go with this setup. You won't regret one second. I did 2 months of research and was gonna nab an AC Air but I'm sooo glad I went with this setup. I'll check back in a while but for the first ride impression...WOW. Buy one.....now! Multi 5 flaming chiliturds on this 2 wheel motocrosser (without the motor). :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Saratoga, NY
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Skid | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Price, Spec, Versatility, "Fun Factor" | | Weaknesses: | I agree with most of the other reviewers on weaknesses (shimmed seatpost, tires), however, these really are minor gripes. | | Similar Products Used: | I can't say that I have used anything similar. My last bike was an i-Drive, and before that I was riding a hard tail. Nothing similar to this bike folks! | | Bike Setup: | Had to upgrade the spring on the pro deluxe. The stock spring is only for riders who weigh up to 160 lbs. and it is impossible to properly set up the rear suspension if you are too heavy. It only cost me $40 for the new spring and if I wanted to I could have traded the old shock in and it would have only cost $10, so, no big deal. Platform pedals. | | Bottom Line: | The AC stands for All Conditions and if you are looking for a bike that can handle MOST conditions well, then this is a good bike for the money.
Here in Toga we have the luxury of being able to ride to the trails instead of having to drive to the trailhead. Guess what? Riding through town is tough! Why? - Heavy bike, big heavy tires, and 6 inches of travel (I personally never take it out of the 6 inch mode). I struggle to keep up with my more cross country inclined riding partners, but I do. And I'm getting in peak riding shape much faster because of the effort!
Once we get to the trails there is pretty much the same complaints on flat single track and hills. I really need to work to keep up. Climbing long grinds sucks, but the bike handles steep technical climbs pretty well. The short cockpit actually puts me in a pretty good position to tackle steep technical climbs (meaning I don't really have to put the nose of my seat in my butt to get the proper weight distribution - you know what I mean).
Eventually what goes up, gets to fly down. And going down is where this bike really shines. All I do is let go of the brakes and GRIN. Too much fun. This bike also handles rocky technical sections like a dream. You can complain about the tires if you want but to without them I wouldn't be able to just roll over everything and not worry about picking a line.
How about drops? Everybody is so dam fixated on drops. I've seen videos of trials riders doing huge drops on hardtails. How about that crazy freak on the unicycle doing 7 or 8 footers? It's not the bike kids, it's the rider. So I ask you: "How about drops?" I will say this though - very stable steed, nice wide handlebars, big tires, this puppy has stomped some pretty big hits without a whimper. Just make sure you're looking where you want to go AFTER you land, don't look at where you are landing. If you're looking at the ground, chances are you'll end up on the ground.
Bottom line - This bike does most things well enough. No bike is going to do excel at everything. I'm more interested in having fun and for my money choosing this bike was a no brainer.
The latest Mountain Bike Action (July) has a long term wrap up sort of article on a 2001 AC1 if you are interested - pretty much a glowing review from them also. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kirk
a Downhiller
from Chicagoland area
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Challenge Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Grand Schwinn Cyclery-Morris,IL | | Strengths: | Great bike for huckin off 8' drops, doin some salom, or screamin downhill out of control. The bike flies through the air with ease, ballanced to make rookie riders look like they know what their doin. For the money, the AC1 delivers right back. The SHIVER works great! | | Weaknesses: | I have broken a few things so far, but that is expected while jumping, as with any bike. The weaknesses are the headset (intergrated), shimmed seat post, and the weight of the bike. | | Bike Setup: | BETD reducer cups with a RaceFace real seal, BETD suspension plates (7"+ of travel) and a 700lb spring added for my 200lb ass! | | Bottom Line: | I think if you are even considering buying this bike, It will prove itself worthy. You might have to do a few additions here and there to tweak it in to your riding style, but the bottom line: I LOVE MINE! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a Downhiller
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Escarpment | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Brant Cycle (Burlington, Ontario) | | Strengths: | Race Face components, Titec bars, big ole Hayes discs, overall design and construction. | | Weaknesses: | Sun Rhyno Lite rims. | | Similar Products Used: | iDrive 1.0, various Rocky Mountains | | Bike Setup: | Stock. | | Bottom Line: | A great bike. A first-time/novice rider might get spooked by the flex on the front fork. Aside from that, it's a great bike, if you're going down. I wouldn't suggest trying to ride this bike cross-country. It doesn't like going up hills too much. Another caveat are the rims. While they are doing fine for me (and I have taken some massive hits with them), they use presta tubes, NOT schraeder. Trying to get a DH presta innertube is a wikked fierce hassle. Either drill the rims out, or make sure that your cycle shop can stock the innertubes. :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Carter
a Weekend Warrior
from Gladstone, QLD, Australia
Date Reviewed: June 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt Archer | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Riders Cyclery, Macgregor | | Strengths: | Sealed suspension pivot bearings, 8 inch Hayes, very positive shifting rear mech, Shiver front forks (main decision why I bought AC1 over AC2), rear sus rigidity and just general all round value for money kicker of a steed. | | Weaknesses: | No standouts here because it is an excellent value bike. If the AC1 did have the following upgrades, I would expect to pay more. So, if I had to be picky I'd say - give her a bit less flex in the front fork, extend seat tube a bit higher (got a slight bend in my seat pole (only 70kgs)and I stay below the mark) and better quality hubs. I snapped my rear hanger the other day with the help of a stray tree and have seen comments in other reviews on the question of hanger strength, but I believe the US$15 hanger is designed that way so as to snap first - before the US$100 XTR rear mech does. I know which I'd rather.
| | Similar Products Used: | GT I-Drive | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Firstly I'd like to thank Mtbreview.com for their site. The reviews helped me with my decision in a big way. The AC1 rocks!! (AUD3900 - around US$2000) I've been mountain biking since I was 12 (27 now) and the last bike I bought was 8 years ago, so being one who doesn't buy bikes often, I wanted to be very sure of my purchase. At first I was leaning towards the NRS 1 but after carefully considering the fun factor I chose the AC1. After riding a hardtail for so long I needed a bike that would exceed my expectations and open new doors so I could use my capabilities to the full (and find some new ones). The AC1 is it - you can point and shoot. The suspension is designed for a wide range of duties. On the second day I was doing 5 foot drops no fuss and she ate it up, yet I was still carving my favourite single trails and serious climbs. Yet to find a 7 or 8 foot drop, but I'm sure she'll take it quite well with a smooth rider. The front fork is a touch flexy but I like its big hit capability. You can fine tune the rear shock well for both drops and downhill and the rear end is very rigid and tracks well. Eight inch Hayes are quite incredible, you'll feel like you're braking in a Formula One. In the 4.5 inch rear setting, especially with the compression adjustment wound to minimum, this baby climbs like a tractor with only a touch of rear shock movement. I was very surprised. The Michelins climb very well and there is so much grip to go steep that the only trouble you have is keeping the front wheel on the ground. Took a little while getting used to the extra weight over my hardtail, but once you realise her potential you appreciate the extra weight and strength in the frame/package. Summed up, this is a steed for someone who doesn't want to be limited by their bike and who wants to be able to throw it around with speed and have some serious fun with over a very wide range of terrain including regular dropoffs. She puts a big smile on my face every time I ride her.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Burlingame CA USA
Date Reviewed: June 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Skeggs | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | performance | | Strengths: | Brakes, NRS design, Color, SID shocks, | | Weaknesses: | Tires, frame flex, time pedals | | Similar Products Used: | Specialize FSR | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Excellent value! Will surely but it again. Time pedals easy to get in even when muddy, however a pain to get out. Scars to prove it. Several times crashed, still clipped in after crash (would be cool if I can pop back up while clipped in and keep going like I do on snow skis). Never had problems with Shimano SPD. Tire (Hutchison Pythons) side walls are cracking all over, however no leaks yet. Had to repair flat, very easy to do. I ride this bike fast downhill(smooth)and hard (no bob)up hill, so far this bikes keeps going. Good all around! Best buy for under $2000. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Leigh Courtney
a Downhiller
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | world cup- Bromont | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Fresh Air | | Strengths: | Fork is super sensitive to everything
good brakes
great spec
really like the idea of the bash guard, as well as the big ring, and chain guide! | | Weaknesses: | Mega 9 speed peice of crap
Formula hub (not much choice)
(possibly) the rear shock | | Similar Products Used: | K2 Beast, Kona Stinky, Specialized Big Hit | | Bike Setup: | Swapped fork for a 6" travel jr.T , 8 speed xt, | | Bottom Line: | The bike really shines! I love the handling of the bike, soaks up everything so far, I swapped the forks in favour of a jr.t, I wanted to balance out the ride a bit. Pointed down a hill, this thing is fantasitc! I have left the Michelins on so far for DH, they really work well for the wet crap I ride here in Ontario, they are pretty heavy though. I hope the rear shock holds up to the abuse.
This bike deserves quite alot of praise for what it is capaple of. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Bunyon
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Broken Arrow - Cathedral Rock Sedona | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Fresh Air - Ottawa | | Strengths: | Excellent value. Parts spec for the money is outstanding. First time as a regular disc brake user and can't believe the improvement of braking performance vs Vees. Able descender and surprised how good a handler it is in low speed technical stuff. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy but that shouldn't be a surprise to anyone - if you want light get a 3" travel bike. The tires are all wrong and the Michelins just weigh too much. I find the grips hard and thin but that's a really minor issue. | | Bike Setup: | Shimano DX platforms and Specialized Enduro front and back. | | Bottom Line: | Can't fault Giant's spec - other than tires - brakes, controls and drivetrain are all first rate and well suited for the bike. Bash guard is a nice touch too. If you watch the fork it looks noodely but it doesn't seem to be an issue when riding - small bump sensitivity and big hit capability are outstanding. Chose to AC1 over the AC2 for the fork and haven't been disappointed. Not a fan of Rock Shox and like others have had bad experiences with their products over the years. Only upgrade on the list would be the shock - wait and see. Makes a good clydesdale trail bike with a definite freeride slant. You won't beat your buds up climbs but you'll have a lot more fun once pointed down. Does what it looks like it should do, does it well and won't blow you bank account to get there.... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Curtis worthing
a
from Oakville,Ontario,Canada
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Strengths: | versitile, can be riden XC if your buddies are slow, takes medium size hits with ease, 7-9'drops to flat. relativly lite, 32lbs, once you replace the Mich slugs. handles well, although you will notice the slow steering in some situations overall this bike great. | | Weaknesses: | doesn't climb that well on steep technical sections, although i've only riden it in the 6" setting, will try the 4" sitting and ride the same trails, will post agian then. the Shiver flexed way too much (replaced it with a Z1 FR QR 20 Plus) Tires are junk for anything but down hill, put them on the shelf for DH racing. | | Similar Products Used: | First FR rig. Only ridden FS XC rigs or Hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Maxxis MOFO tires, Dimondback RMX flats, 800lbs rear spring,Z1 Freeride QR20_plus Green Springs (heaviest), grip shift, axiom telescopic seat post(big plus), Kore bars and stem. | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks, light enough for every day use,even if you don't change a thing, except the tires they should never ahve been put on this bike, Giant must have made smok'n deal with Mich. The Shiver is a good fork if you don't mind the flex, takes BIG hits better then the Z1 Freeride. Perfect bike to XC trail ride with slow buddies or someone who is just getting into MTB the weight and the problems you'll have climbing with this bike levels the feild. This bike can be used for training, the weight and climbing thing will make you rock on a true XC rig. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gov'ment
a Weekend Warrior
from Idaho Springs, CO
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Amasa Back, Moab | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Strengths: | Shiver, XT/XTR, RaceFace DH Crank, Hayes 8" Hyd., Excellent balance
| | Weaknesses: | Titec Seatpost, very strange squeak when cranking hard, Tires blow | | Similar Products Used: | RM6, AC Air, Uzzi SL, Sugar 3+ | | Bottom Line: | This bike is an outstanding bike overall. Haven't weighed it yet but it's a bit heavy. F/R Suspension easy to adjust, takes large hits like a dream, uphills with relative (to weight) ease, Downhills and corners as fast as you care to go. I'm putting new tires on it today. The Michelin car tires on it have to go. They add way too much weight to the bike for little in the way of performance tradeoff. There is a very, very annoying squeak when cranking hard. I stopped ten or fifteen times riding Cache Creek/Game Creek in Jackson this past week trying to find the source of the squeek. I actually think it's coming from the seatpost but still not sure. Will change the bars to a Pro Taper today. Changed pedals to flats because I've never ridden otherwise and don't trust being clipped. Bike is a substantial improvement over AC Air (had that for two months) in the fork and coilover shock (regardless of the fact that it is a RockShox unit)as well as the major upgrade in componentry. I'll ride it some more and post another update. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
The Ernu
a Weekend Warrior
from St.John's NF Canada
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | erle industries | | Strengths: | race face cranks AND bash ring, very la dee da! hayes 8 inch are sweet for when it gets a little too steep. shiver is flexy but you know it's gonna suck it up anyway and always come back for more. | | Weaknesses: | i had this bike for less than 24 hours and the damn pro deluxe starts leaking oil and doing some wierd stuff. needless to say i'm pissed off back to the shop we go. | | Similar Products Used: | santa cruz bullit, RM6 | | Bottom Line: | a sweet bike all over with the exception of the rear shock lets see a fox down there, i know i will be soon. also it would be nice if it came stock with a nice fat pair of flats rather than the clipless pedals, being able to bail is always nice. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Geo
a Downhiller
from NY
Date Reviewed: May 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Earth | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | THE BIKE SHOP | | Strengths: | The Ac 1 is Spec'd out great for the money except for the CT crank instead of thee R/F Crank that its advertised with.
The RS Deluxe hasnt given me any troubles, it has great adjustments - Travel , Compression Etc....
Great Disc brakes | | Weaknesses: | Too flexy in the rear when dropping | | Similar Products Used: | strictly hardtail b4 this | | Bike Setup: | Giant AC 1, Marzochhi Super T Pro , World Force 25mm Risers,MRP Mini-Me (34t) | | Bottom Line: | The Bike was great as spec'd but I rigged it for freeriding
The Super T makes it handle a whole lot better and with the Mini-Me and 34t Chainring make it possible for me to keep up with the XC guys then just blow them @ the drops >= )
BOTTOM LINE - AC1 Rocks! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anthony
a Weekend Warrior
from Adelaide, Australia
Date Reviewed: May 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Lofty- Ewok Run | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Star Cycles | | Strengths: | Godd all round package. Brakes are awesomely powerful. XT/XTR running gear. | | Weaknesses: | Rear Shock. Bolts on Shivers. Rear hub keeps coming loose. Not hard to fix but might explain why I know 3 people who have snapped rear axles inside the hub. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX 970. Various other bikes tried before purchase. Bighit was a contender. | | Bike Setup: | Standard except for Grips and tyres. | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up review to my original post. Bike is running well except I have blown a rear shock. Apparently Rock Shox have had a quality control problem on the main seals and that is why everyone is blowing them. I'm (supposed to be)getting a new shock that has been pulled apart, checked and supplied. We'll hyave to wait and see. Another small gripe is one of the thru-axle bolts on my shivers welded solid into the leg. Bike shop drilled it out, installed new bolt and I applied Ti-Prep anti-seize compound to all bolts on the forks. No probs since. Other than these small probs ( all bike are going to have tething problems ) I'm very happy with the bike. I would definately recommend swapping Michelins with something else. Best combo I have found is Maxxis Mobster 2.7 on the front and 2.5 Highroller on the back, running standard tubes at no less than 35 psi. Nice and light (without being weak) and really hooks up in corners. S^*%'s all over heavy poor corning Michelins. Light rubber also makes this thing a beast to climb considering it weighs aroung 30 lbs with light rubber. All in all I'm a happy customer, we'll see how quick giant gets me a new shock. 4 chilli's cos of blown shock and seized bolt. Otherwise full marks | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
frorider
a Downhiller
from Salt Lake City, UT
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | All | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | My LBS | | Strengths: | Price definitely. Excellent mix of component. Despite the Shiver being undersprung for heavy riders it's a fun fork. It bobs when pedaled but no where near that of a single pivot which makes climbing a bit easier. Speaking of climbing the lock out on the Shiver is a god send. 8" Hayes are powerful, decent wheelset. Didn't try and hide a cheap bottom bracket from the customer. | | Weaknesses: | I haven't ridden this bike for a month and it has developed a nasty creak similar to that of a rusty coffin lid. Came stock with a Rock Shox deluxe rear coil shock: We'll see how long that lasts. Shimmed seat post is annoying. Titec, although priced well need to do something with the finish of their products. If you even sneeze near them they scratch and turn grey. Cable routing near the head tube is rediculously close and routes the cables at a severe angle. I keep my seat post high as I'm tall, but can see where those who want to drop it way down will run into problems. What's up with companies using integrated headsets? Not cool. Cheng Shen tubes. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain, Cove, Santa Cruz. | | Bike Setup: | Nearly stock except the tires, tubes and grips. Who the hell can pedal with those Michelin's? Switched to Tioga DH's and decent tubes. | | Bottom Line: | I'm really bummed about the bike going to pot in less than a month. I waited 3 weeks for my LBS to get it and now it's sitting unrideable once again. I'm not sure about the dealings between Giant and my LBS but at first I was told the the LBS had to pin point the exact problem before Giant would act. I spent a good 8 hours + cleaning, lubing, retighening and trying a variety of things to get rid of that noise and from what I gathered from my LBS, they had no idea what it was. I had to subtly mention that I was going to return the bike for the purchase price if it wasn't resolved asap. Only then was Giant or my LBS ready to make something happen and will send out a new frame/shock. Who's to blame? I don't know but it was lame to have to make threats to get a new bike fixed after waiting so long for it to begin with. The excuse I got makes me laugh: No problems with the AC's but the NRS's shipped to Utah have similar problems due to the dry weather. Dry weather? It's been raining every week since January!
Bottom line: If you can get one that doesn't have problems then it is a sweet deal. The bike is pretty fun despite it being really heavy.
I have to give Giant a poor overall rating for the manner with which they handled my problem.
Giant: all bike manufacturers have problems. Just admit it, deal with it and move on. Making up lame excuses after your customer threatens to return the bike doesn't help with return customers. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JK
a Weekend Warrior
from Hong Kong
Date Reviewed: April 21, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Good price
Great brakes and fork
F&R suspension is perfctly balanced.
| | Weaknesses: | Formula rear hub
Rear derallier hanger is quite weak
Sun Rhyno Lites are pretty soft and get out of round easily.
| | Bike Setup: | Now has Hope sport rear hub laced to a Mavic 521 rim.
IRC Missiles.
| | Bottom Line: | This is a follow-up review.
After 8 weeks the rear hub totally crapped itself. Found that one of the pawls had split and there were small fragments of metal in the freewheel mechanism. Total distance ridden on bike to then, 481km! Now replaced by Hope rear hub.
Sun Rhyno lites are starting to get a little out of shape. Rear was swapped for a Mavic 521 when I swapped to the Hope hub. I've had 521s on my GT for 3yrs and they are still nice and straight.
I snapped the rear hanger on a rock (my fault) but after examining the hanger I believe they are too lightly designed. Could become expensive at USD32 a pop.
RS rear shock is holding up well and with the right spring doesn't make any top-out noise.
All things considered, I suppose Giant had to save a few pennies somewhere. The old saying applies - you get what you pay for!
I have been riding the bike hard and after all that is what I bought it for. However I expected better durability so far therfore I have to drop a chilli from my last review..
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tim j.
a
from parker, colorado
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | DOWN WIND SPORTS, where else? | | Strengths: | shiver sc, raceface north shore dh cranks, titec cockpit, sunn wheels, xtr, hayes 8" rotors, everything | | Weaknesses: | isn't the best climber but nothing like it is | | Similar Products Used: | tried the dh comp, dh team, ac2, special ed big hit comp, enduro | | Bike Setup: | stock, still debating the clipless/platform issue | | Bottom Line: | this bike is very squishy. i love it, it soaks up everything i have thrown at it. it's a huge confidence builder. im now riding things that i would have never consider on my hardtail, and ive had it for five days! this is my first full suspension rig, im trying to get into the freeride scene. i can't wait till summer break when every ride will begin with, "hey dude, is the camera charged?" watch out Bender!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
xc_freerider
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Strengths: | Excellent components, adjustable travel, Hayes 8" Hydraulic Brakes, Marzocchi Shiver SC | | Weaknesses: | None thus far. The huge tires are definately an asset in the wet and mud conditions currently around, wide displacement surface to help maintain traction, but may prove to be too heavy later in the season as things dry out. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain Slayer, trek Fuel 90, | | Bike Setup: | As delivered from manufacturer | | Bottom Line: | Near perfect bike. (I can hear you are saying 'rubbish!') But it fits me really well, l feel totally comfortable with the bike and it almost feels as if it was designed specifically for my body geometry. Laugh if you will, but the componentry is second to none and the Shiver SC rocks. Obviously with all new bikes breaking in/teething period such as run in brake discs and shocks, to adjusting cabling lengths as they stretch.
Good bike for any serious all terrain rider, a bit on the heavy side compared to my old hardtail, but l am a strong lad so it won't take long to come to terms with the weight.
Awesome bike, love it. Buy One! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KarateShnitzel Brooklyn , NY
a Weekend Warrior
from endeffect@hotmail.com
Date Reviewed: April 9, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bay Ridge Bikes | | Strengths: | Good parts setup for the price , builds confidence when youre hitting the more extreme terrain/jumps . Good beginner bike. Pedals well for the weight even going uphill. | | Weaknesses: | Stock Michellin 2.5 tires are too heavy and washout too easy , If your gonna do any trail riding get Less agressive tires . Changing flats is a pain without QR but its a price you pay for stiffness. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky deluxe , trek fuel80 , trek4500 , rocky mountain RM6 , AC2 . | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Azonic flat pedals , and RaceFace Diabolus 50mm stem. Getting new tires soon . | | Bottom Line: | If you want a good do everything bike and dont have much to spend , go with the ac1 . You get an excellent package , Hayes Hydros w/8" rotors , Raceface North Shore cranks , XT\XTR mix , Not to mention the Shiver SC in the front. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
grant
a
from louisville
Date Reviewed: April 3, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | derby city outfitters | | Strengths: | Like butta, both on trails and urban assault. Climbs well, for what it is. Goes down smoother than Catherin Zeta Jones under a lazer. Highly adjustable suspension has me ignoring my xc bike, now I just ride this one for everything! | | Weaknesses: | Stock tires are great if you do nothing but downhill and urban assault, overkill if you plan on doing much trail riding. Mine came with regular Rhyno Lites as opposed to the XL's I thought I would be getting. | | Similar Products Used: | mooched rides on other freeride bikes here and there, bullit, rm6, etc. | | Bike Setup: | stock with wtb wierwolf 2.5 race's, which reduced my rotational weight by about 3.5 lbs! Platforms | | Bottom Line: | If you just want to ride everything and have fun doing it,
If you do not plan on racing,
If you want to conquer some serious terrain,
If you are not a weight weenie,
If you don't care about riding an exclusive brand,
Get one of these. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
HCFRUAAKMF
a
from Indianapolis, Indiana, US
Date Reviewed: March 27, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Good Parts, supposedly more stiff than last year, Very plush | | Weaknesses: | smallest size is 17", SHimmed Seat post, Chain guide isnt that great | | Similar Products Used: | Azonic DS1 | | Bike Setup: | Azonic A-frame pedals, Intense lock on grips, Single ring w/ chain guide | | Bottom Line: | Very good bike for the money. the shimmed seatpost isn' really that big because i am not too tall and need to cut the post down to about 4-5 inches. the fork hasnt' been broken in yet but i can't really tell the difference between the shiver and the Z1 Freeride. I also wish i would come in a smaller size than 17" because i am only 5'4' and get very little to no standover clearence. also not that light (but thats why i have a hard tail also) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nate Schnase
a Downhiller
from Billings Montana
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Sykes Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop | | Strengths: | This Bike comes with some of the strongest parts on the market. RF North Shore DH cranks (ISIS) Sun Rhyno lite 36 hole rims, Titec Ringleader Bar. The Frame is thick, it feels like Im dropping onto a couch even from 7+ feet. I love it! | | Weaknesses: | Comes stock with a Shiver SC. The only time I have ever agreed with the magazines on stuff being flexy. This fork is like a wet noodle, it feels very plush and lives up to the feel you would expect from marzocchi, but it wanders like a Rock Shox SID race mounted to a Super 8. Also the stock spring is way to soft for any serious riders. I recommend at least a 700lb spring otherwise you will have to tighen the preload down to far and trust me anything past 4mm of preload on this shock will tear the seals out on your first bump!!!! Also I would like to see either mag or purple hayes levers and bodies instead of the plastic comps. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Deluxe, K2 Disco Monkey, Santa Cruz Bullit, Super 8, specialized Big Hit, Trek Diesel | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Foes F1 Wet One Fork, Mountain Speed 750lb spring by eibach | | Bottom Line: | This is an awsome free ride bike for anyone serious about riding. There are a few minor changes that need to be made but otherwise The AC1 is on par with bikes like the bullit and Kona Stinky series. If you are an amature downhiller or somone who loves to ride big hits then you should definatly give this bike a test ride!
Ride On
Nate | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Oceanside, CA.
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Warehouse | | Strengths: | Marzocchi Shiver SC; Hayes 8" Hyd. Disc RaceFace North Shore
enough said! | | Weaknesses: | Shimmed seat post???
| | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky, Diamond Bak | | Bike Setup: | stock not much needed to improve this one | | Bottom Line: | Some people want to have it all. This bike can tackle it all. Where this bike really shines is screaming down hill.
You will find your buddies talking about the rocky slopes and big hits they took coming of the moutain. Where your response will be, "What rocks?" and, "Big hits?"
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Garry
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada
Date Reviewed: March 19, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | update to previous post | | Strengths: | Getting better and better. Shiver is unbeleivable. | | Weaknesses: | BUY 2 spare dereilleur hangers if you ride any mud! Trust me Get rid of the Michelins you won't beleive the difference. I can see the rock shok caffing, I'm already getting a top out clunk too, like another post. (crap) Formula frt hub sounds like it's got rocks in it too! | | Bike Setup: | Updates: Specilized BIG HIT tires, Easton 26" scandium, swaped out the 8" rear hayes for a 6" much better! I put a Raceface XO adjustable offset BB on it to cure the chain from falling off the 32 when back pedalling with a 2x9 set-up. | | Bottom Line: | Much Improved, the new tires and shorter bar have dramatically improved the steering imput and control. The Michelins are DH tires, very high rolling resistance very heavy 3-4 lbs. New tires will be the best upgrade possible if you multi-use this bike. This bike will put me in the hospital for sure, going bigger and faster all the time, CRAZY ASS BIG, can't wait for better weather. That's it for now. Peace G | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rocketman
a Weekend Warrior
from Corvallis, Oregon
Date Reviewed: March 15, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything with stunts and big drops | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike-n-Hike | | Strengths: | Everything about this bike rocks. This thing downhills like a dream. Takes big drops with ease and has no detectable flex when your riding it. | | Weaknesses: | Crappy rockshox rear shock,swap it out with a stratos or fox, cause everything rockshox makes is crap. other than that NONE!!!!!!!!!! | | Similar Products Used: | RM6,RM7,Pipeline,stinky's,foes,dh9,..... | | Bike Setup: | I built this bike from the frame up with a 7" superT, Azonic butcher rims, hussefelt cranks, hayes hydros(8"f/6"r), stratos helix expert rear shock, xt/xtr drivetrain, Nokian 2.6f/maxxis mobster 2.5r, and all the other bombproof stuff. | | Bottom Line: | This bike will take anything you can throw at it. I have done 15ft drops on this thing and it lands like a dream. Had the 2001 frame but cracked swingarm so Giant sent me out a new frame complete!!! I have ridden just about all kinds of trails and this bike rocks on any kind of terrain you throw at it. Buy this bike you will not be disappointed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
grant
a Cross Country Rider
from louisville,ky
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | derby city outfitters | | Strengths: | silky and plush. suprising climber and amazing for conquering obstacles. I've only gone on one ride and I already doubled my cajones regarding approach speed and drop size. Much better climber and sprinter than one would expect from a bike with this mass, travel (6" setting), and wheelset. | | Weaknesses: | I could not detect the "twisting" that everyone is griping about, although I only did 4'drops. I did, however, hop onto some off-camber transitions without any noticeable steering issues and I weigh 205. | | Similar Products Used: | Iv'e been riding a Surly 1x1 with 100 mm 'Zokes and platforms as my 'freeride' bike. I have played around on several freeride bikes and rented an RM6 | | Bike Setup: | stock ac-1 with platforms | | Bottom Line: | If you are finding yourself by lines, drops and obstacles that you are scared to try on your xc rig, or you're sick of bending rims and blowing forks, get one of these. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JK
a Weekend Warrior
from Hong Kong
Date Reviewed: March 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chi Ma Wan | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle World - Wan Chai | | Strengths: | Excellent spec for price.
100% sealed roller bearings - easily replaced when worn
Hayes 8" discs - simply awesome braking power
Shiver SC - better than 2000 Z1 BAM
| | Weaknesses: | Slightly flexy rear end - may result in premature pivot bearing wear.
Curved seat tube allows minimal seat height adjustment. - Needs a shimmed seatpost to increase adjustment available.
Came with XT rather than Raceface cranks and BB.
No so much a weakness as marketing BS - the adjustable travel DOES NOT WORK with a fixed spring rate. You would need to adjust the spring each time you adjusted the travel setting to get it working properly. Ideal to leave it in the 6" mode and setup the rear shock / spring accordingly and have a lock-out for climbing. What I will be doing if the RS gives up the ghost. | | Similar Products Used: | Bullit, '00 GT LTS, Kona Stinky, Uzzi SLX etc. | | Bike Setup: | Medium (18") - perfect for 6'2" 88kgs (200lb) rider
Mods to standard:
Raceface Prodigy cranks with 22-34 rings and 34T sized rockring
Thompson Elite seatpost
700lb spring and in 6" mode full-time
545 pedals - came with cheesy cheapo SPuDs
Michelins are too heavy (very good for DH) - to be replaced by lighter tyres such as Kujo 2.25s when worn out. Will probably reduce bike weight by 2-3 lbs! | | Bottom Line: | Have ridden on varied trails from road rides to very technical trail riding.
This bike is not for extended rides on the road although with lighter tyres I think that it would roll a lot better. Easy to wheelie for ages - sweet balance point.
Notice slight bobbing in 6" mode when pedalling on smooth surfaces, however does not detract from bike performance.
No winner uphill but definitely can be ridden uphill in granny ring whilst seated . Just sit and spin - smooth out your pedalling technique and then go for it on the DHs.
Has a good riding position for my intended use, very technical singletrack with fast DHs. Climbs to the top just not as quick as those guys on the FS XCs but wait for the technical stuff and DH!!
Much better for DH than my old GT LTS, alghough the LTS was a better climber.
Rear suspension is PLUSH, trail Buzz is totally eliminated and soaks up large hits / drops nicely.
I definitely needed the 700lb spring to get correct sag without needing to add any spring preload. RS shock is performing better than expected so far with plenty of damping adjustment in both compression and rebound. A slight top out clunk worries me a bit and I think that this may be the undoing of this shock. I have a shock boot fitted which should increase seal life.
The Shiver SCs are the best 5" travel forks that I have ever ridden. Great for technical riding and weekend warrior DH duties. Stock spring suits my weight as I never feel a hard bottom-out but still get 120mm travel. They feel like a they have more travel than they really do. Very happy with them so far.
The brakes are awesome. More powerful than my previous Hope O2s. Cope better with long DH runs without overheating and disks warping.
Swapped to the Raceface cranks mainly because they look better than XT (boring). Pretty much equivalent standard to XT. For technical riding I can recommend the 34T rockring and losing the 44T chainring. Gives much improved clearance under BB for gnarly trail riding. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gaper
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | kelso extreme / The pines | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Remy Sport | | Strengths: | Excellent OEM spec. shiver is wicked, EEC actually works, very stable (smooth), very little pedal force into rear sups. Hayes are sweet. excellent all round do everything beautiful ride !!! | | Weaknesses: | cable routing sucks, awful seat (ouch!) | | Similar Products Used: | Cdale superv | | Bike Setup: | Sram 9.0 , axiom telescopic seat post, Mosh flats, fizkik saddle. 600lbs rear spring. | | Bottom Line: | Big adjustment form old ride. Lots of tuneability, does everything well. Got some work to do to use this baby to it's potential. Looking forward to testing my limits! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charlie
a Racer
from Pittsburgh PA USA
Date Reviewed: February 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | the local frick park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | gatto cycle shop | | Strengths: | THIS F*ING BIKE ROCKS ARSS...raceface northshore dh isis splined! SC SHIVER! Ryhno lite XL rims! 20 mill Axle! ringleader bars! DAUL 8 INCH HAYES HYDRAULIC ROTORS! 2.5 stock tires! Rockshox pro deluuuxe coil! | | Weaknesses: | whats with the 'hayes comp' levers??! and the shimano M545's?? and yes the tricky cable routing too
(PS.lookout for the made in tiawan ect. stickers) | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky deluxe, specialized enduro | | Bike Setup: | stock so far (its been 2 days) except the pedals, i switched to welgo platforms to help me cope with my 'ejectionfrombicycleydiss' | | Bottom Line: | *THIS BIKE WILL PUSH YOU
*6 INCHES REAR 5 UP FRONT; WHEN IT PUSHES YOU YOULL BE ABLE TO TAKE IT WITH EASE
*WHEN YOU SCREW UP IT WIL SAVE YOUR ARSS...
*NO ONE ELSE WILL KNOW YOU SCREWED UP..
*I LOVE THIS PIECE OF MACHINERY. YOU WILL TOO.. IF YOU DONT THEN YOU NEED TO SELL IT TO ME SO THE 2 CAN MATE AND ooo my THE POSSIBILITIES..could this bike actually be improved upon???
-if you like badass riding and no one else but you thinks your a badass, buy this bike..you will go big | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a
from Modesto,CA
Date Reviewed: February 10, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Delta Cyclery | | Strengths: | Burly frame.Fork is super plush and isn't even broken in yet.Rear suspension doesn't bob, even on six inch setting.Brakes rock,Hayes with 8 inch rotors, what more could you want. Component selection is awesome:xtr, Race Face, Titec. | | Weaknesses: | Shimmed seat post, you'd think a $2500 bike would have the correct size post. | | Similar Products Used: | GT xcr 3000 (i-drive) | | Bike Setup: | Stcok,excpet peddles | | Bottom Line: | This is the best bike available for the do-it-all rider who wants to be able to drop off anything and still be able to climb where a cross country bike could go. For the price no other bike comes close for quality. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wally
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, Australia (currently living in Japan)
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Adjustable front and rear travel; great component mix; free bashguard and chain guide; plush; cheap for what you get. | | Weaknesses: | None so far. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona stinky. | | Bike Setup: | Stock (Japanese model) - comes with Psylo SL instead of the Shiver. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a great all rounder. Enough travel for the weekend downhill, yet adjustable so you can still ride XC/freeeride. Haven't really hammered this bike yet, so still waiting to see if any problems arise. But so far this bike has proven awesome. I never liked Giants before (kind of a stereotype thing from the past), but this bike has changed all that. If you want something for all-round weekend fun, check out this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Shortall
a Racer
from Huntington,WV, United States
Date Reviewed: January 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | anything at Snowshoe | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1350.00 | | Purchased At: | Huntington Bicycle Center | | Strengths: | Great Fork, the new Shiver SC works great. Can be used as a freeride or dual slalom bike by changing the rear travel. Great components. Light weight. Hayes Hydraulics kick. Easy to nose manual. Already comes with bashguard and chainguide. Already has a full setup for racing. Great value. | | Weaknesses: | NONE | | Similar Products Used: | Giant XTC AC2, Yeti ASX, Kona Stinky Dee-Lux. | | Bike Setup: | Everything stock except Shimano DX platforms, AC holeshot chainwheel, and Maxxis Tires. | | Bottom Line: | You need this bike if you like doing big gaps and want to race dual slalom, or light downhill on the side. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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