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Submitted by
PurpleRACE
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Wa USA
Date Reviewed: September 27, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Tiger mountain | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | friend | | Strengths: | Very quick and responsive. | | Weaknesses: | NONE.... I have 3 1 inch fork just in case. | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing to compare with. | | Bike Setup: | 1993 Purple Race
Ringle Super bubba(Angry bee)/mavic wheel set
Ringle seat post clamp
Ringle bar ends
Ringle bottle cage
Sakae Titanium handle bar
Syncros Titanium seat post
Syncros Titanium Stem
Syncros Titanium bottom bracket
Salsa Titanium skewer
Topline Anodized blue crank set
Shimano 545 spd
Shimano XTR brakes
Shimano XT 7/8 speed thumb shifter
Shimano XTR derailleur
Shimano XTR 8 speed cassette
Selle San marco Squadra seat
Chris King head set
White Brothers SC70 front suspension | | Bottom Line: | Thank's Keith for making the best bike ever | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Utah
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Gooseberry Mesa | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | Salem Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Smooth as butter. Keith Bontrager new how to build a sweet bike. I bought the frame, used from a bike shop employee that wanted to be able to use discs. I live in utah and don't believe discs are necessary for a XC rider here. If you have the opportunity to get one of these sweet bikes do it, they ride incredibly well with a modern 80mm fork, I actually have a 100mm fork and still love it (with lots of sag though). | | Weaknesses: | not made anymore! | | Similar Products Used: | Many other aluminum hardtails:trek, canondale, specialized, etc. | | Bike Setup: | Privateer S w/rasta paint, Fox F100 RLC 07, Full XTR, Red King headset, Thomson post and stem, Dirt Rag ti saddle by Selle San Marco (looks great and is super comfy), Green and Yellow Salsa grips with red bar plugs, Easton Monkeylite SL bar, Continental Vertical Pro 2.3 tires. | | Bottom Line: | Steel is a great material for bikes, unless your the kind that needs to impress the Mountain Bike Action crowd. i have had my steel bike for over 5 years and it is just as good as the day I bought it. COMFORTABLE, my bike is much more comfortable for even two hour rides than any aluminum bike I have ever ridden, and the fram only weighs a half pound more. Durability over Weight any day. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mattman
a Cross Country Rider
from Harleysville pa
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | almost everything! lightweight steel frame, mostly xt component set, x-ray grip shifters, super comfortable, super reliable! | | Weaknesses: | 1" threaded headset makes it impossible to upgrade the fork! my q21r's finally failed and i had to replace it with an RST fork. even trade if anything. would have liked to get an upgrade out of it. | | Bike Setup: | rst front shock, profile carbon handle bar, xtr v-brakes and levers, panaracer fire xc pro tires, most shifter components replaced with stock. | | Bottom Line: | this is the greatest bike ever! steel frame will NEVER wear out and is lighter then many aluminum bikes, climbs, decends, and goes like mad, ALWAYS ready to ride! i've had this bike for just about 10 years now and like wine, it just gets better! the headset is finally failing which will be difficult to replace because of it's 1" threaded nature...but im sure as hell gonna try! if i lost both my legs in some aweful accident i'd still keep this bike just so i could say i have one and you don't! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a
from San Antonio
Date Reviewed: October 18, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Steel is real. Geometry is made for single track. Its the only MTB that I feel comfortable on (am a roadie.) | | Weaknesses: | Weight, but that's outweighed by the plushness of the steel frame. | | Similar Products Used: | Tried lots of bikes, too many.... | | Bike Setup: | I've two Privateer Comps
First bikes setup: Tange Prestige Switchblade fork, Campy ATB headset,original x-ray gripshifters, Bontrager super stock wheels, the original XT group, those old red shimano DX pedals, and some slicks my city bike
Second Bike: all original except the shifters and rims, shifters were switched to LX 8sp, still has the Quad 21 on it | | Bottom Line: | Get 'em.... then give them to me.... I promise to take great care of them for you.... honest | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Murphy
a Weekend Warrior
from Mankato, MN, USA
Date Reviewed: March 6, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Kato | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | secondhand | | Strengths: | Bombproof frame, intuitive handling, retro-sexy, reasonably light. The toughest frame ever. | | Weaknesses: | Not the absolute lightest frame, but light enough for me. | | Similar Products Used: | North Star Estrella, Balance XR 750, Diamondback Response Sport | | Bike Setup: | Bontrager Privateer S, size medium (15"), maroon, Indy XC, Tange headset, Bontrager bars, quill 1" stem, L-bend bar ends, grips, seatpost, Mustang Rims, Selle San Marco / Bontrager saddle, Deore XT v-brakes, 8 spd shifters, cranks, derailleurs, front hub, IRC Mythos XC 1.9 tires, GT / Hadley rear hub. | | Bottom Line: | I had my most catastrophic crash on this frame. I hit a protruding root with my pedal and went end-over-teakettle, slid into a tree on my head, bike on top of me. The rear wheel came down upside down hard enough to pull it right out of the dropouts; luckily the wimpy XT v-brake pivots folded out of the way, so my brake studs were not damaged. The rim was trashed but the frame is still right as rain; I had it checked for alignment and it's good to go.
Privateers are the low-budget mass-produced version of the Bontrager Race. I wanted a Race, but I wasted my money to pay off my girlfriends bills, so I ended up with the Privateer; 98 percent of the performance at half the price of a Race (Keith's words, not mine). It's just a little heavier, but not too bad. I love my Privateer; both wheels brake evenly into corners, the steel frame is forgiving (it doesn't beat me senseless like an aluminum frame), it climbs great, and it's Tonka-tough. The slim (by today's standards) True Temper tubing is so elegant, particularly with the wishbone stays and no-bridge chainstay. The dropouts are not only heavy-duty, but in the event of a failure (not very likely) they can be bolted back together with a bottle cage bolt to get you home. No aluminum frame could take the abuse that a Privateer can.
I would say this is probably the most durable mass-produced frame ever. It's at least in the top-five, and I'd recommend it to anyone. Anyone.
I bought this frame second-hand six months after I sold it to a guy from the shop I worked at. He was going into the service and no longer had a need for it. I only paid him $280, and I felt a little guilty about it, but he needed the money right away and that was all I could get together on short notice. I upgraded everything to Deore XT over time. This frame will hopefully outlive me; if I ever have kids and grandkids, I hope they fight over this bike. I've got a Marzocchi Comp coil with a 1" steerer I plan to install soon.
I bought another Privateer which I plan to paint this summer; it's got a 1 1/8" steerer tube, so I can stop hunting for 1" steerer forks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mario
a Cross Country Rider
from Randolph, Vt USA
Date Reviewed: November 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Black Mesa State Park, Oklahoma | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Minneapolis | | Strengths: | Beautiful in form and wonderful to ride. Super nimble and agile. Not Clunky like aluminum, but bery snappy. | | Weaknesses: | Only that it's outdated, which limits what upgrades I can get. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, cannondale, iron horse | | Bike Setup: | XTR/XT, JUDY XC, BOntrager components, Raceface cranks/bb | | Bottom Line: | I have the joy of riding a 1994 Santa Cruz race lite which is absolutely the best bike out there. No qualms about it. It handles like nothing else, and there is no F/s that will match the sheer rideability of this machine. Too bad Keith is no longer making these. We will miss them when the last one rusts away a hundred years from now. What a beautiful and pure period in biking history before sensationalized tech took over. A million chiles to this beauty!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Martin O'Loughlin
a Cross Country Rider
from UK
Date Reviewed: July 27, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Purchased At: | Cheltenham Cycles | | Strengths: | The bonty race is one of a kind, the ride is perfect, few bikes compare to the sense of unison that can be achieved on a good day. | | Weaknesses: | no longer made, Magura and pace are about it when it comes to getting a fork. | | Similar Products Used: | various | | Bike Setup: | hope hubs, mavic 517's xt drivechain, HS33 brakes, salsa stem, easton ct2 bars and seatpost | | Bottom Line: | The best. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie Estep
a Cross Country Rider
from Crested Butte, CO, USA
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Alpineer | | Strengths: | Great Smooth Ride. Perfect Bike. | | Weaknesses: | 1" headset and fork combination makes it a b**** to upgrade the fork. Otherwise this is a perfect bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Voodoo Hoodoo, GT, Klein, Cannondale. | | Bike Setup: | Raceface Cranset, XTR derailleurs, XTR Cassette, XTR brake system, AVID flack jacket cables, Chris King Headset, MARZOCCHI MX COMP fork, XTR hubs w/bontrager race light wheels. Raceface Stem w/1" - 1 1/8" shim. Titec Ti handlebars, Bontrager Grips. Time ATAC pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is almost 10 years old and I still have to find a comparable bike. With the exception of the 1" headset, this bike is X country perfection. Total weight is still under 22lbs. If you ride a lot of harsh trails the steel provides a softer ride than aluminum without sacrificing performance. Steel may be old, but it still rules. I will ride this bike until I get a new bontrager or this one breaks. If you can find one of these snag it and hold on to it. I've never met anyone who didn't love the ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
G.
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Collins, CO
Date Reviewed: December 16, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Bluebonnet Bicycles | | Strengths: | Excellent bike. Sturdy, handles well. "Small" frame actually fits a short person--5'5" | | Weaknesses: | would have been nice if they could have seen into the future and put a 1 1/8" headset and Disc tabs on the frame. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rock Hopper | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z.1 Atom Race, XT/XTR drivetrain, Raceface cranks. . . | | Bottom Line: | Grrrrrreat bike. If you've got one and you want to upgrade the fork but are afraid of messing up the handling by changing the fork-rake, don't worry. I upgraded from the stock Judy. It didn't seem to effect the handling, and the improvement in suspension performance is phenomenal. Happy Trails. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan
a Cross Country Rider
from Sedona, AZ
Date Reviewed: January 10, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | llama | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo | | Strengths: | drove out to cali just to get this bike after breaking my FTW alum(ouch)hardtail. no more. steel is my friend here on the rocks of Sedona. Everyone else here rides FS. relativity i guess. remember rigid forks? this bike will steer up a 15% switchback w/o the need for a track stand turn-just rolls through it if you keep pedalin'. on the down it corners like a ferrari! just like those Italiains...design, design, design. it makes all the difference. but, i'm glad it's made in the USA. | | Weaknesses: | mine came with a Judy XC(bontrager offset). after blowing the cartridge twice, i decided to get a real fork and found a 1" marzocchi Z-2. It was like having a new bike! a couple of rides got me used to the new geometry(1/4" offset ). no offense keith, but the bike handles even better with the slack offset. also, the wheels had to go. i replaced the mustang/XT wheels with some 2 cross 3 hand built Mavic 217's(3 years ago my friends). the rear is still going. the front was left at the red canyon parking lot near Bryce,UT in july 2000. if you found it i'll pay a reward! | | Similar Products Used: | nothing compares at the price, but my rigid stumpy set it all up for the future....... | | Bike Setup: | full XTR with Z-2 75mm | | Bottom Line: | i hope this bike lasts forever. the only other bike i haven't broken in my life of mtn biking(13 years) is my rigid '91 prestige stumpy. the bontrager will not become a 'towny'! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder
Date Reviewed: October 13, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Sourdough | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Very good handling - agile, with tight, quick steering
Works best when ridden very aggressively. Handling is best in fast, twisting single track. | | Weaknesses: | In a lot of situations, this bike rides best when you ride it aggressively and shift your weight around. I think this is good, but for an inexperienced rider, it could be detremental. Due to its tight handling, on long sweeping turns the bike can feel unstable in the front end is not correctly weighted. I don't get along with this bike when descending paved mountain roads. If you are a beginner, get a bike that feels more stable with slightly slower steering, or you may fall more often than necessary. For an experiance rider that likes to go fast both up and down hill, get a bontrager. | | Bike Setup: | Privateer. The only remaining origonal parts are the stem and the seatpost. 99 Z2 Atombomb, Racelight riser bars, full xtr drivetrain, Magura HS33, King HS, Phil Wood front hub, time pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This is an amaizing bike, basically the more aggressively you ride it, the better it feels and performs. Ever since I upgraded to a more rigid front end, with a strong wheel on a Phil Wood hub and the Marzocchi fork, the steering when descending has just been phenominal; bike goes when you point it, and holds a line perfectly. Due to the quick steering, you can change direction instantly. Technical sections of trail are also great to ride because you can really through this bike around under you, and change direction quickly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anthony Anzaldi
a Weekend Warrior
from New jersey
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | The mill/illegal to ride now | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | cycle craft | | Strengths: | This bike is handles awsome. What a deal I got I only paid 500 bucks for it. After picking it up I felt guilty,and after riding it I felt even worse. What a steeeeeeeeeeel.If you can find one buy it!!!!! | | Weaknesses: | Handlebar makes my hands go numb. | | Similar Products Used: | Origanally had a Bridgestone then a Specialized. Ah steel a dying breed luckly I found one> | | Bike Setup: | Stock full XT,with rock shock Judy> | | Bottom Line: | Great bike that handles great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gene Choo
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY USA
Date Reviewed: May 8, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Jim Thorpe, PA | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | I have a '97 Racelite. And simply put, it is the best handling, best riding hardtail out there. Beautiful hand-crafted, Santa Cruz-made steel frame. The stock Bonty components are light and durable. From tight, twisty singletrack to steep, technical climbs, this bike can do it all. And unlike aluminum bikes, you don't feel beat up after a rocky descent. Too bad Keith sold out to Trek. | | Weaknesses: | The 1" steerer tube. Your options for fork, headset and stem upgrades are extremely limited. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper
Gary Fisher Pro-Caliber
Cannondale F1000
Schwinn Homegrown
Litespeed Tsali
GT Avalanche LE | | Bike Setup: | Full XT with Bontrager components and Judy XC fork. | | Bottom Line: | If you can find one of these gems...buy it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jan Mork
a Cross-Country Rider
from Stockholm
Date Reviewed: November 3, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Jaerva | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
It´s light and nimble, making you something of a daredevil even though you´re not one really. Seems it´s probably built to last with light but strong components. | | Weaknesses: |
The Crowbar was NOT a fave of mine at first. It made my fingers go totally numb. I´ve got used to it now and maybe the bar isn´t that bad after all. | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek 930 shx ´97
Trek Y33 ´97 | | Bike Setup: |
Privateer Comp ´98, stock w/Judy XC.
Changed cassette and chain to XT. | | Bottom Line: | It´s a blast to ride this bike! I really wanted the racelite but couldn´t afford it(damnit). As substitutes go this is a winner, including the stunning rasta paintjob. It´s a real shame Trek´s not going to build them anymore. Luckily I got one and the smile I had when leaving the store hasn´t faded one bit. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Holme
a Cross-Country Rider
from Wells, Somerset, England
Date Reviewed: September 14, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Flowing Mendip singletrack | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Excellent geometry, well specced, old school steel appeal | | Weaknesses: |
Nowt, although stay alert | | Similar Products Used: |
S-Works steel
Specialised Stumpjumper
Various Rocky Mountains | | Bike Setup: |
Privateer - full XT, Rockshox Judys etc
Present Bonty Race: Pace Forks, King Headset, XT (Thumbshifters!) 517 ceramics etc | | Bottom Line: | I've always had a thing for steel frames: the appeal of other stuff doesn't just pass me by, but I do believe that well made steel frames have got soul. Having ridden Specialised, Rocky Mountain (all nice rides) etc for years and years, I eventually brought a Privateer comp, and it pretty much blew me away handling-wise. The bike is an absolute dream, and, for me at least, is the perfect machine for those all-day rolling rides that take in equal part hard climbing (you have to go up to get down, after-all)and tight, thru' the trees soulful singletrack. I've have the utmost respect for Bontrager, esp. with regard to Keith's stance on the industry and so I was fully stoked, then, when the chance came to buy one of the last (pre-Trek) Bonty Race frames. Like the girl you know whose gonna be 'the one', it's the bike for me. The Privateer, meanwhile, compares more than well, and for the money, nets you one very well thought out bike that's not only got history, but is going to last a long time. No short term consummerism here. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
PJ
a Racer
from Delaware
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Fair Hill | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
geometry, Bontrager/Rock Shox fork, | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek 8000
Trek 6500
Trek Y-22
C-Dale
Jamis Dakota
Gary Fischer (a few models) | | Bike Setup: |
98 Bontrager Privateer(med), XTR Shifters, XT Rear Der, XT Rear Cassette, XT cranks, Bontrager Race Modified Crow-Bar, ICON pedals, Max Flite TI saddle, Avid 1.0 levers and Brakes, Bontrager Race Rims and Bontrager/Rock Shox Fork. | | Bottom Line: | There are many bikes out there that are good buys but if you want one that can grow with your skills than this bike is one to consider. It is truley one of the top single track bikes on the market for the masses. Dont get caught up in the STEEL=TONS of extra weight mentality. The bike that I own weighs in at 25 lb. Remember its pretty much factory so with a change of a wheel set and crank you could easily be riding a 23lb-24lb bike that handles and rides like nothing else. Truley it is a joy to ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dino Martinez
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: July 15, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Bergan Peak Evergreen, CO | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
OX3 frame(steel rules!), stiff and agile, geometry, rims. | | Weaknesses: |
Some might not call this a weakness but I dont like the riser bar for a hardtail(Maybe I just need to get used to it!). | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Sworks, GT Zaskar, Santa Cruz Chameleon. | | Bike Setup: |
I ride a 1998 Privateer Comp with Marzocchi Z2 Bomber, XTR drivetrain and shifters, Chris King headset, and Chris King front and rear hubs on Mustang rims. | | Bottom Line: | The Privateer Comp, in my opinion, is the best hardtail (for the $$) on the market! I've raced, owned, and riden some super sic bikes in the past but none feel as responsive, quick, and stealthy as this one.For a steel frame it is lite, bouncy, and loves to handle tight switchbacks. With a few moderations ( shocks and pedals like I've done) it is a beast and a hella ride on the downhill. Keep up the awesome work Mr. Bontrager and we'll keep riding on your products!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stephen Locklin
a Weekend Warrior
from Green Bay WI
Date Reviewed: July 11, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Bottom Line: | I liked it | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daesung
a Cross-Country Rider
from Northridge
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
riding distance from my house and technical | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Steers like a MAD squirrel, crisp ride, good geometry for single tracks, climbs well, and a good steel ride (unlike aluminums) | | Weaknesses: |
Weight, 1 inch head tube (limits fork selection) | | Similar Products Used: |
CannonDale v400,
GT LTS,
Schwinn Moab,
and basically all the bikes that my friends have and are willing to let me ride (FSRs, Diamond back, super V500,.. etc) | | Bike Setup: |
Race Face LP Cranks,
Judy SL w/ Englund air,
Chris King hubs w/ Mavic 517 w/ DT revolution,
Chris King headset,
XT and XTR components | | Bottom Line: | Bonty -Privateer Frame is very strong and reliable. I fell/crashed so many times and the frame is in great shape.. Nice geometry for Single tracks and I love climbing on this bike. It's a great deal for the price I got it for and is a solid all around bike. Sad to see that no more Privateer frames are going to be made. I'm just glad that I was lucky enough to get one while it was available... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Air Odom
a Cross-Country Rider
from Novato, CA.
Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
I have had a Priviteer for about 3 years and this bike, from the racing seen is very sought after feared, and very respected. I had many people ask me, WOW I have heard of them but never seen one, and I felt like I was dealing with and Antique, but they always said, hey don't get me wrong I have heard only great things about the hard tail animal. | | Weaknesses: |
Some of the components need to be upgraded grips, and on some models breaks/cranks. | | Similar Products Used: |
GF Hoo Koo whatever, Marin and others, but nothing handled so smoothly, rigid, and sturdy, hey don't believe when you come across one take it for a ride YOU WILL BELIEVE.
To all the Bontrager family...they will Believe when I pass them in a race, and say BONTRAGER Lives!!!!!! | | Bike Setup: |
ESP Breaklevers, V-breaks, all XT and XTR components, but I still have the Stock Quadra 21 w/ speedsprings, and I am still charging pass those guys with the Titanium bikes w/Z-1's BAMS. SO DO THE MATH!!THE KID FROM CALI -SENDS- | | Bottom Line: | YOU DONT HAVE TO BELIEVE ME FIND ONE AND RIDE IT, THEN YOU WILL BELIEVE THE HYPE, ITS 4 REAL. KEITH WOULD NOT MAKE A SUB-PAR BIKE, HE KNOWS WHATS UP. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Dingleberry
a cross-country rider
from Rocky Mount, RI
Date Reviewed: March 6, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding my Bontrager Pri-S for a year now and couldn't ask for more. I always feel great after long rides on it. Great Compenents. My only complaint is the Indy XC forks. They don't seem nearly as quality as the rest of the bike. I will replace the innards this spring with something a little plusher. Rating: Five Rhode Island Reds!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Webb Phillips
a cross-country rider
from New York City
Date Reviewed: February 2, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Here's a nice anecdote to add to my previous review. I decided that full suspension XC bikes were probably ready for prime time, and that I was at a competitive disadvantage on my hardtail. I went to a bike store and test rode their $3000 top of the line Specialized S-Works FSR XC. I rode it around and it wasn't half the bike my Bontrager Race is. Something was just not there. I longed for my smooth and agile Bontrager, and the S-Works felt lifeless and slow by comparison. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brian b
a cross-country rider
from aptos/cupertino,ca
Date Reviewed: January 23, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
i have the bontrager race lite and i love it.the only thing i didn't like about it was the grips which i changed for 9 bucks. the bike rides so well and is really light. i highly recommend this bike and would buy it again in a second. it climbs well and has kind of tight steering. it feels pretty bmxy. it is just plan fun to ride. i always come back with a smile. if you can find one go and buy it. now!hi han-yu. :) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JAMES
a cross-country rider
from LAS VEGA$
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought my privateer about 6 months ago. It came down to the GF Hoo Koo E Koo, GF Big Sur or the Bonty. Being short, the Bontrager felt like it was made for me. I've logged over a 1000 miles on it and am very happy. I've ridden other cro-moly frames and even with my 130lbs, I could feel them flex and twist, but the bonty feels stiff and very responsive. My only complaints are the Indy XC's and a blown front hub, which was replaced no charge within a week. Wish I could've afforded a Comp...Tears in a bucket! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a weekend warrior
from Bend, OR
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
About a year ago, I made the mistake of going into Montlake Bike Shop in Kirkland, WA (near where I lived at the time). They were blowing out their '96 Bontragers, including an XL Privateer S with the most incredibly UGLY mud-green paint job I've ever seen. But it was only $685 (!!!!), and it was my size, and I'd heard all kinds of good about them. My second mistake was taking it out for a test ride. Before I'd even gone a block (on pavement!) I knew I had to have this bike. (And this is coming from somebody who's been riding off road since before there WERE mountain bikes.) This is without a doubt the sweetest MB in the known universe. And you know what, that mud-green paint job is looking better all the time (scratches and all). If I could give it a 10-star rating, that still wouldn't be high enough. Keith knows bikes!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Terry York
a cross-country rider
from Santa Clarita
Date Reviewed: August 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought mine a couple of months ago after finding out about the sale at Bicology. Compared the ride to other bikes at almost twice the price, and kept coming back to that sweet spot on the Bonty. After a couple of phone calls to my father-in-law, who is a retired aeronautical engineer, he was persuaded to go take a look at this remarkable cycle deal. He went thru the same thing I did, comparing one ride to another and always coming back to the Bonty which he came home with! Believe me, this guy doesn't buy Anything unless it's simple and sensible! He said the design was as near to perfect as you can get. After being taken (the Bontrager guides itself!) on a first ride, and getting the frame a little dusty, I noticed a small 3/16 gap in the weld material of a chain-stay joint. Called Bicology, took it down to their service dept., and had a new frame within an hour! No question, Bicology is the best bike shop in L.A.! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a cross-country rider
from Texas
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned a Race Lite for two years now (I got orange Dolan but I paid full price). I don't race much any more but tend to ride flat out whenever I am on the trail these days. I could not be more pleased with a bike than I am with the Race Lite. It lives up to its billing as light, fast, strong and durable..period. The geometry took some getting used to after my Fisher CR-7 which was pretty laid back. But the upright angles of the Bontrager make tight single track a joy. The protective stickers/decals used on the top and down tubes do their job well and the paint is far superior in durability to that of any other bike (road or mtn.) I've owned. Many of you have read the debate at other places on this site about steel vs. aluminium vs. Ti etc. I am admittedly a bit of a purist and am convinced that steel is the way to go in a high end frame. Having ridden, and followed the evolution of, mtn. bikes for over 18 years now I am more and more convinced that Bontrager has in fact taken the best tested most durable frame material and engineered it to near perfection for this day and age. If you want a classic hardtail that will last, is within the weight range of the fad materials, accelerates and handles like an F50 then I recommend the Bontrager Race Lite. As you might guess I give it a 5 to me it's the epitome of the hardtail. But then I am a bit biased. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank Duncan
a weekend warrior
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: August 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Bontrager for three plus years and could not have made a better buy. With just a few upgrades this is one of the better bikes in the market place when it comes to steel. With the wish bone backend and agressive riding angles it will out perform just about any rig in its class. The newer version of this bike sadly to say is not quite up to snuff on the componet end. For the older version I give this bike a big YES, for the newer version I say maby with the hold out for a stroner componet kit. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dolan
a cross-country rider
from Culver City, CA
Date Reviewed: July 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I was a bit nervous about ditching my Breezer for a Bontrager. Having spent most
of my MTB life in Santa Cruz (as a UCSC rider) Bontragers were dime a dozen. Now
I understand why. Bought my medium Race Lite from Supergo this weekend for a pinch at $1100. Modified it a bit, and took it riding in Ojai. I was absolutely amazed. I've owned a Merlin, Specialized, Paramount, AMP, the Breezer, and probably some i've forgotten now, and the Bontrager tops them all. It is stable at speed but quick on the singletrack, amazing over washboard, light, and climbs like a personal hi-speed chairlift. Could not recommend a bike more - aside from the red color (I wanted orange!), i'm in love. Now I just need to move back to Santa Cruz... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a cross-country rider
from the Bay Area
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Privateer Series is (was?) a great deal. Not as refined as the Race series, but five chillies in the value-for-money category. I bought a Privateer Comp for $ 900 (incl. tax and some additional parts) at SuperGo some weeks ago. The Privateer is extremely responsive and handles great, the lightweight frame is the best argument for this bike. The XT components are, well, what you would expect from XT components. The '97 Judy XC fork is so-so and definitely should be upgraded (I am trying a type III kit for the time being). I also noticed quite a bit of flex in fast sharp corners on the front brake - any ideas what to do against this? Minor misgivings about the paint job - some paint come off when I took of a sticker. Also, the seatpost and stem could be a bit longer, especially for riders over 6'. All in all however a great deal. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shimada
a weekend warrior
from Japan
Date Reviewed: July 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Do you knou how to discriminate between the Santa Cruz-made Bontrager and BonTreker by appearance? And is there any difference between them in characteristics or performance? I bought my Privateer Comp in Japan last year. Mine is exactly the same color and appearance as pictured here above. I always feel happy on riding it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary Park
a cross-country rider
from Costa Mesa, California
Date Reviewed: July 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The bike: ’97 Privateer Comp, Large ( 17 center to center) I picked mine up four months ago during Supergo’s blowout sale. $870 plus tax. Full XT. Sweet deal. Upgrades and add ons include: bar ends, bottle cages, a Moxey XC suspension seatpost, a Specialized Speedzone computer, Mountainspeed Speedsprings (red-medium), and a Risse Gem damper cartridge. Total weight with heavy accessories: 25.75 lbs.Regarding differences between the Privateer and the Race frame, this was the reply when I e-mailed the Bontrager website:Thanks for writing in !!The Privateer is basically the same as a Race frame. The top tube and
down tube are exactly the same. The bb shell is the same. The headtube
is the same. The stays are the same material only bent in a different
way to allow them to fit onto the new laser miter that we have now. They
have been made since 95 and have stayed the same except for they now use
1 1/8 headtubes and 73mm bb shell instead of 1 and 68mm. These changes
were only on the 98's. Hope this helps.ChrisAs the other reviewers have stated, this is a precise, quick handling, responsive frame that is simply excellent on singletrack and demands full attention and skilled inputs on fast fireroads. It kicks ass! This is a no-nonsense, lean, mean, cross-country machine. A great frame at a great price. I love this bike! When the flexy, squeaky, full suspension, triple-clamp fork, riser bar, ski area, shuttle-to-the-top, fatboy bikes are slowly rotting in garages across the land, the Bontragers will continue to rock’n’roll like there’s no tomorrow! Five scorching hot ones for this bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a cross-country rider
from San Luis Obispo
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Must ... learn ... to use ... V-Brakes ...I just upgraded to a 97 Privateer S ($519 from Supergo! Gotta love that!) after 11 years on my trusty old unsuspended Nishiki (How many of you kids remember U-brakes? Just clamp down on the lever and pray you stop someday). So needless to say, I'm still getting used to this modern tech stuff. After two rides I've only been over the bars twice.But the frame -- o mi gah! This thing rocks. The bike rides like an evil squirrel, and I mean that in the bestest possible way. You gotta stay alert to take advantage of the amazingly quick handling, or it might take advantage of you. That's exactly what I want, though. Quick, beautiful in the singletrack, good climber (better when I add bar ends) and a bit sketchy on the downhill (but that's just me dealin' with my fear).Who could ask for more? I love love love this bike. Wouldn't trade it for anything -- except maybe another Bontrager. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a weekend warrior
from pa
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS BIKE IS AWESOME. I JUST BOUGHT IT A FEW MONTHS AGO AND IT STILL LOOKS LOIKE THE DAY I GOT IT. THE FRAME IS THE BEST EVER IF EVERYONE WOULD MAKE A FRAME THIS GOOD THE BIKE MARKET WOULD BEE COMPETATIVE,.........BUT UNTILL THEN BONTRAGER RULES. DID I MENTION I RIDE 7 DAYS A WEEK 12 HOURS A DAY!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christina
a cross-country rider
from Santa Clara, CA
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just got my '98 Privateer, and it is awesome. I upgraded to XT components, and it is a smooth, fast bike with amazing handling. The geometry of the frame is different from any other bike I've ridden, and it makes for excellent control and singletrack and great climbing. To anyone who is considering this bike, I say go for it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimmy J
a weekend warrior
from Nottingham, UK
Date Reviewed: June 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Rode half a dozen £800 (yes, the base privateer costs $1400-1500 over here) bikes back to back, including Trek, Orange P7 and Klein. The Trek was the only one that handled as well as the Bonty, but the Bonty had the (slightly) better riding position and got the call. Plus it has a funky old-skool paint job. The P7 handled the worst, FWIW. Best bike I've ridden for the price. Not seen any others in the UK yet, anyone else here have one? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Webb Phillips
a cross-country rider
from New York City
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is definately the best material possession I have ever bought. I got a '97 Race for $1400, which I think is a pretty sweet deal. There is no best bike for all people; the bontrager Race is basically designed for singletrack cross-coutry racing. It handles almost too well, feels smooth but accelerates like a panther kitty, and comes with light and durable bontrager components. This is an honest, durable, and light bike that always puts functionality over flashiness. This bike is not designed for looking cool (though it does anyway); it's not a cannondale. It's designed for durability, lightness, and above all, speed.On a side note, I have my own theories about the whole Bontrager - Trek thing. Keith Bontrager answers emails personally, and he writes very honestly and informatively about mountain bike technology on his web site (www.bontrager.com). He thinks high rise handlebars are a fad and are a clear case of choosing aesthetics over functionality. The Race line uses flat bars. But the '98 Privateer line uses high rise bars! Why the contradiction? The Privateer line has, in some sense, been sold out. People who say bontrager has sold out his committment to quality are wrong, and those who say that he has maintained it are wrong. He sold out the Privateer line and kept ahold of the Race line. Don't get me wrong; the Privateers are still the best bikes in their price range. And Bontrager is becomming less stogily conservative than he once was. He's following some good trends: Time ATAC pedals, semi-slick tires, XTR/LX derailleurs instead of XT/XT. But if you want a real bontrager; a bike that puts quality first and always first, get a Race or better.On a side note, I noticed something odd about my bontrager. If I ride with no hands, everything goes fine for about twenty seconds, and then the front wheel starts to wobble back and forth very rapidly, more and more violently, until I have to grab it. On my old 29 lb. Cro-Mo bike I could ride through fields and over fire roads with no hands. On my bontrager, I get nervous on sidewalks. Does anyone else have this problem? I guess it's just a result of racey handling. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a weekend warrior
from Tennessee
Date Reviewed: May 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I love this bike! I got a 97 Privateer S from Supergo for a killer $599. I have had the bike for a month now and it rocks. I put on a Judy XC with Dirt Works Dual rate springs, bontrager barends, and OURY grips. This bike feels so much better than my GT. It is light and agile, I ride so much better. I am 6'2, 195 and 34 inseam and got the XL frame. It is just right for me. I have ridden this bike every weekend and raced once. The XT drivetrain is much better than my old STX and the springs really make the XC into a nice fork. I love this bike and so will you! Gotta go ride... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
stephen
a racer
from seattle
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I am a cross country racer and was absolutely shocked by the Bontrager. Not only did it have the advantages of a steel frame, but it was just as light as an aluminum frame. Componentry and wheels are great. Bontrager makes the best. It stands up to a good race beating | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JJM
a cross-country rider
from will county
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Hello bought the trager priv.-comp for the price and XT-stuff minus wheels for 800$ probably better than any 800$ bike out there yes a 1996 fork that's not so good. but the steel ride compared to a very harsh uncomfortalbe Cannondales there all very harsh, steel is real and plush for a rigid. if you need a new bike please buy this one Made in USA with XT-stuff and not 1300@ either JJM. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd
a weekend warrior
from Portsmouth NH
Date Reviewed: May 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've recently purchased a Bontrager Privateer 2 months ago and I must say , what a great bike! It is very light and extremely nimble handling. It loves to get air and is not bothered by New Englands rooty, muddy trails. Components are decent, xt rear stx-rc front, stx rc crank,indy xc. Shimano brakes feel a little soft. I'm upgrading to xt frt derail and shimano 535 clipless pedals. I also like that it is from a specialty small company, the quality shows.It may not be as flashy as some of the new bikes, but the ride will convince you. 5 chillis all the way! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad white
a cross-country rider
from Oregon
Date Reviewed: April 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my new 1998 Bontrager privateer comp for about a week now. After test riding around 14 bikes, I chose this bike for the handling on the single track. For some it may seem a bit too responsive but all the better for the tight switchbacks. The components are top and the weight is noticeably light. It is hard to find such a good deal on a good chromoly frame these days. The worst thing of the bike is that it makes you want to fly. I flew so hard yesterday going 30 mph and bailed on a landing that sent me tumbling, surprised THe bike emerged unscaved. Ready to continue the beating even though I couldn't! Cheers to Bontrager!!!! Great paint job this year too! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Hardin
a cross-country rider
from Monterey Ca
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my Bontrager Race set up by Paul Sadoff. This bike is full XTR with a judy fork and it is KILLAH. But what I really want to say is that after a few rides on the new bike I realize what a great design the Bontrager is and that even Trek can't screw it up My privateer is still a great bike . If anyone is on the fence about buying a 97 at the closeout price do it! It is the best hardtail deal out there. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jose Rodriguez
a cross-country rider
from Philadelphia, Pa. 19116
Date Reviewed: March 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just purchased a Privateer Comp model an I've got to say that it is a terrific bike. My LBS was having a close-out sale and I managed to get a pretty nicely upgraded bike (Seat, post, bar ends) for $799. When the sales guy told me the price of the standard bike I looked at him as if I thought he was nuts. I mean it comes with XT components, handles like a dream, and can take a pretty nice beating. I'm almost 6'3 and about 230 lbs and I really feel very little flex when nailing bumps. Can't say enough. Thanks go to my LBS. Always wanted a great bike, got one now. Didn't blow $1200 bucks to boot. Thanks Bontrager for a great bike. Hope that Trek doesn't affect the production. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a cross-country rider
from Hemet, CA
Date Reviewed: March 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Beautiful bike. I tried to by from my local bike shops, but they did not really want my business. Unfortunately to put food on the table and pay rent they have to stock the latest fashions that sell on looks, gimmicks. So I drove and hour and a half to Supergo, got Privateer Comp for $870, 980 after bar ends, cages, pump, and taxation. ANYWAYS, the bike is wonderful, very responsive, lively ride, almost springy, though not flexy.(Whatever that means) It is sweet. I'm so glad my GT got stolen. Of course I have 2 minor complaints. I wish it were lighter- XL 26lbs. I had trouble picking the size, Supergo claims the XL is 21 inches. I'm 6ft. 33 inch inseam. I was looking at a lot of 18 in. 19.5 inch bikes. The XL just felt much better than the L. The XL is about 19.5 inches from BB to top tube. The standover height is about 31 inches. that gives me 3-4 inches between the top tube and my future family contrubutions. I'd like to have more, but on the L it felt to crowded, and like I was gonna fly over the bars going uphill. Choose carefully. Have a nice day. P.S. I will support my local merchants when it is time to service my bike. I hope they don't sabatoge me. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Hardin
a cross-country rider
from Monterey Ca
Date Reviewed: February 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've Had a Privateer S for about a Year I love It. First Downhill was a major wake up call. After I got the hang of it no problem, just stay loose and Pay Attention. I never got the Anti chain suck device to work it bent up two chains before I threw it away. I just bought a Race frame that was leftover from the Santa Cruz Factory and Paul Sadoff (Rock Lobster) is setting it up XTR for me. I'll let you Know how it goes. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pym
a weekend warrior
from Richmond, Va
Date Reviewed: February 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought a Bontrager Privateer on close-out this last weekend. I checked out the Fisher Hoo Hoo e Koo, Specialized Stump Jumper, and Klein Pulse. I went in thinking I would buy a Stump Jumper because I borrowed one while riding in Durango last Summer and liked the way it felt. While I liked the ride and feel of the Stump Jumper and the Klein Pulse, I went for the Privateer - in the end it was no contest. I like this bike - it rocks! Nice responsive ride and climbs well too. It's got XT components, V brakes and velociraptor tires. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
a real review
a cross-country rider
from nor cal
Date Reviewed: February 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
stick to reviewing the bikes, not one comment about ride, fit, comfort! review a bike you have or own, not tried in a parking lot! kooks go home. very good bike for the price! hand made in usa, madison is still better than taiwan robot anyday! own two and love them. see you at the top and will be waiting for you at the bottom of real mountains!!. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a cross-country rider
from Half Moon Bay, CA
Date Reviewed: February 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just bought my '97 closeout Bonty Privateer S and love it! Rides like a sports car, other descriptions like point and shoot and singletrack dart definitely fit. Haven't had much experience yet with fast, loose stuff, so don't know how twitchy it's going to be. Only complaints are the Indy XC is a bit lightweight and the headset is non-standard 1 threaded. Otherwise, the LX/XT stuff is a good package, especially appreciate the XT rapidfires ... very smooth. Great value for the buck.
Final comparison came down to it or the Moab 1, but knew within about 30 yards that the Bonty was my bike. If you're in LA, get one of the $599 deals at Supergo (I think) ... too bad they won't mailorder! I had to spend $699. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fred
a cross-country rider
from San Mateo, CA
Date Reviewed: February 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my first Mt.bike, after riding road bikes ( Eisentrauts) for the last 26 years. After doing a lot of research and reading MTB reviews, then comparing to LBS stock, I narrowed it to either a Klien Attitude Comp'97 or a Bontrager Privateer Comp '97. I found the Bontrger better equiped with full XT , and felt
the CroMoly frame would hold up better in the long run. So far after a month of riding it was a great choise! Paid $999.95 and figure the parts without the frame cost more than that. Who cares where its made, when its a quality product!The 1998 Privateer Comp looks to be downgraded on some the parts and the lower MSRP ($1299.00 ) reflects that. So go out and get a '97 !! Diggity-Dank!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
p.t.
a cross-country rider
from santa cruz, ca
Date Reviewed: February 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
stick to reviewing at the hoo koo sight, who needs a triple butted cro-mo frame anyway? a gorilla thats who! had this frame for a year, good welds, nice gusset, and fantastic geometry. goes up with ease, and carves like a sidewinder in the desert! great bike and it will last. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clint
a cross-country rider
from Atlanta, Georgia
Date Reviewed: February 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is one of the very best steel bikes you can ride. Great on tight single track common here in Georgia. Excellent climber and desender in the right hands. Not good on fire roads or anything flat and loose. Not a common bike here but if you look around you can find a deal.I bought a HooKoo E Koo instead however. For the same money as the Bontrager I got an excellent steel frame, all LX and Bomber 3 light bam 98s. The Hoo Koo also comes with a few standard Bontrager parts and has better overall handling. Heavier though.The Bontrager gets you respect from other riders but you'll look like a candy if you get passed in the tight where this bike should shine.Good riding. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rodd Johnson
a weekend warrior
from Baton ROuge LA
Date Reviewed: February 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just completed reading the reviews on Bontrager bikes. I must Agree that it is an awesome bike. I went home for the X-mas holidays and a friend of mine was bragging on his Moab 2. We went riding to togeteher and let me tell you STEEL rules. My bike has all XT and LX and I'm trying to upgrade to XTR. I recomend every one who loves to ride hard.... get one. I got mine of course below cost but, that is another story. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peder Vang Rasmussen
a cross-country rider
from Odense, Denmark
Date Reviewed: January 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the greatest bike in this univers. A green Rase Lite. It fun to raide on a Bontrager in Denmark beacoues there is on one els who ride on (IT). Bontrager sparker røv. Er ud også en MTB freak så kom til Odense for at (RIDE)
Hvis der er en Dansker der læser det her, og har noget Bontrager udstyr til salg så E-MAIL til mig.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Wittry
a cross-country rider
from Palo Alto California
Date Reviewed: January 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I am 6'2, around 190 - 200 lbs. and have been riding a Race Lite for several years in the Santa Cruz mountains and in the Sierra's. This bike excels at everything! Control is almost telepathic. It holds a line like no other bike I've ridden. It will test your nerve on gravel strewn fire road descents but is otherwise flawless! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
pak
a cross-country rider
from Michigan
Date Reviewed: January 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
All Bontragers are great bikes. Looks like there's some confusion in here though - all Privateers are built by a well known Madison, WI bike co. Of the MTB frames only the Race, Race Lite & Ti were built in Santa Cruz. If you have a Privateer, who cares where it was built? Get on that puppy & ride!! Stop all this Bontreker crap! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
reto
a cross-country rider
from swiss
Date Reviewed: January 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a privateer comp in 97. nice steel frame with a dynamic geometry. it's the best you can get for your money. there are some good parts on it, and some parts need to be upgraded (fork, headset, shifters ....) but still, if you exchange these prarts, its realy cheap!!! and great to ride (you can 't kill this machine) too bad that trek eat's up bontrager in 98...... i don't konw if it's still the same.......
im happy that mine is one of the last bontragerframe built in santa cruz!!!!!!
for the 97, 5 chilli's | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam Pantoja
a weekend warrior
from Santiago, Chile S. America
Date Reviewed: January 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My recently stolen Privateer was (is?) an absolutely great ride. Geometry gives you such great control, even if it requires attention. Test-drove a Trek 7000 that felt comparatively like driving a large power steered sedan (kinda boring). The light steel frame is also a bonus. As they are not available here, will go thru the trouble of bringing one home in my next trip. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a weekend warrior
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: January 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Race Lite in Oct. 97 after 15 years on a road bike. Since i had almost never rode mt. bikes before, my test rides were completely judged by my road experience and then alot of reading. After several months riding some of the best off road trails in calif. of which during these rides i had traded bikes to feel what other bikes are like, I am happy to say the race lite bontrager is a superior bike. Thank god i didn't screw up on buying something else! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scotto
a weekend warrior
from Boulder, Colorado
Date Reviewed: January 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Bontrager S for almost two years now and I still love it! I'm 6'3 and 215 lbs and really notice the benefits of a well designed and built steel bike. I had a Manitou 5 installed from the beginning, but the grip shift had to go! I have shimano parts, LX, XT, and XTR because I ride hard and wear parts out very quickly. In fact, I have broken or worn out every non-Bontrager part on the bike! I will be purchasing a Bontrager for my wife, who races, this year. Do not be afraid to upgrade components at the time of purchase, because the frame is well worth it! Do not be fooled into purchasing aluminum. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a cross-country rider
from Ann Arbor, Mi
Date Reviewed: January 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my Privateer Comp about 18 months ago. I love it. It's nicely spec'd with all XT and cool Bontrager stuff where appropriate (rims and seat and whatnot). I'm not crazy about the Rock Shox Quadra 21, though. The dials don't really seem to affect performance and I end up using the stiffest setting I can crank into it.The paint job grows on you quickly. I was put off by it at first. After it gets chipped and builds some character, you'll see how cool it really is.I looked at Klein and GT but Privateer was much better. I also get a lot of respect from others for my choice. Bontrager is a well respected name. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd
a weekend warrior
from San Antonio, TX
Date Reviewed: January 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the Privateer Comp a couple of months ago and I am very happy with it. I like the quick response and ridgid feel, it reminds me of driving a sports car.The all XT package and Judy XC forks are a great compliment to the frame.This bike is a true Bontrager, not a BONTREKER! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Dripping Springs,TX
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I got the Privateer Comp about two months ago and am truly impressed. I have ridden in diferent combinations of terrain. The only problem was my own due to my inexperience with clipless pedals and point and shoot steering (especially off-road). I am an old guy, 6'3, and 185#. I have the large frame and find no fault with any aspect of the bike. I highly recommend this one but make no comment on the Bontrek. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Halliday
a cross-country rider
from Ogden, Utah
Date Reviewed: December 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is the best thing I have ever owned. I have tricked it out a little. New fork, wheelset, BB, cranks, etc. But the frame is what tells the story. Light, quick, responsive, and durable. This bike will take you everywhere and never complain. Race it, ride it, put it on you roof and drive around. This bike will do anything. One small quibble: Sketchy in fast, loose stuff. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
a cross-country rider
a
from battle creek michigan
Date Reviewed: November 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a bontreger privater comp and except geting used to the clipless peddles ie. cant clipout quick yet. every one should try night riding it is like in star wars with the speeder bikes. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Gersib
a racer
from Lincoln, Nebraska
Date Reviewed: November 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have three Bontrager bikes. I came from riding Trek carbon fiber bikes. Comparisons run along the lines of production vs. custom as far as ride goes. After riding both the Trek and the Bontrager, it's obvious that the Bontragers are more limited production bikes, (all of mine were built in Santa Cruz), where the Trek has that production bike feel. Not bad, but not the same as a handbuilt STEEL frame. When Bontrager's catalog says that the bike is a singletrack dart, they aren't kidding. They aren't the stiffest frames around, but that's by design. I weigh 155, and the frame isn't too harsh, but what's amazing is my friend Todd, who weighs 210, doesn't feel that the frame is too whippy at all. He says that he can feel flex, but in the true steel tradition, that flex can be beneficial when you're in the groove, snaking through the trees. The new Trek-built Privateers are pretty nice too. Haven't ridden one for long off-road, but the handling feels pretty close to the same, and any differences could be attributable to parts differences. Check one out. You won't be disappointed. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gershom Birk
a weekend warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I lust spent a week test riding bukes around the city and I have decided to buy the Privateer Comp. I spent all day camparing it to the Kona Kiluea and I found it's responsiveness second to none. It's full XT (all but the headset, bah!) spec and stiff frame made me choose it over similarly priced bikes. The paint job though! John: what are you doing? You can't expect everyone to be as practical as you and I. Get a hot looking paint job and you'll reap the rewards of your design. I'll be riding it all winter (Yep, in canada you're TOUGH or you go south) so we'll see how it cuts through Ice and snow at -30C (um, I'm not sure what that is in Farenheit but yer skin freezes in 60 seconds). I'll get back on about this bike after the winter season. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Masashi Shimada
a weekend warrior
from JAPAN
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Privateer Comp a week ago. I love this green one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a cross-country rider
from Berkeley, CA
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Privateer a couple months ago. I put on clipless pedals, barends, and a quick release seat bolt (at first, I kept sinking sinking sinking). A week ago, I bought a Flite to replace the C10 Plus saddle. Overall, the bike has been great. It took me a week to figure out the skittishness on descents; climbing has been great since day one. Sure, I would have liked higher end components than STX-RC, but they only bother me in the parking lot. The folks at my LBS recommended the Bontrager as bomb-proof and upgradeable; so far, so good. I can imagine a better ride (lighter components; the seat bolt, saddle, and 535 could have come with), but the Priv. gets 5 chilies b/c it outclasses everything for similar dough (I paid 7 bills). I'm no purist; if KB had to become Bontreker to get me onto this machine, I'm all for it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kaos
a cross-country rider
from Kansas
Date Reviewed: August 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Privateer S is some sweet machine. She is nimble and quick and not afraid of a climb. I am 240+ and was worried it wouldn't hold up to the pounding I deliver. Not the case. She acts like I don't weight a thing. Component level is right (except for the shock maybe.) I would like to see a Judy XC instead of the Indy XC on the bike. Oh well. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jörgen Dahlström
a cross-country rider
from Uppsala, Sweden
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just bought a Privateer S and what can I say, I LOVE IT! It is my first bike so I spent a lot of time try to figure out what to buy.Finally I found this exelent bike at a lokal dealer, Bontrager has never been a well known bike in Sweden.It has a lot of BMX feeling and is very fast and nice in hard single track terrain. The shock suits me very good (all though it is only a Indy XC fork) and the rest of the details are very well choosen for this type of bike.I give it the highest rank Five stars (Ten would have been more suitable). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jed
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Why doesn't Tim, below , just try one with a longer top tube (i.e. maybe the next size up - duuuuuh!) or get a stem that's a bit longer. Why say that the top
tube is too short when you aren't on the right size bike? If you tried on a pair of pants that were too tight in the waist, wouldn't you try on the next size up to see if they fit or would you just categorically say tht this brand of pants are too tight in the waist? With Bontragers, standover clearance is not much of an issue since the top tube slopes a lot, so top tube length is how you should select the right size anyway! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon Jaroslawsky
a cross-country rider
from Germany
Date Reviewed: May 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great Bike for a fair retail price! Easy to drive and faaaast! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a cross-country rider
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: May 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I guess with the handmade facility closing on the west coast, all frames will be made by Trek. Too bad. This is a nice handling bike for tight singletrack but , for my tastes, the top tube is way too short for anything but short rides. I can't stretch out and jam. Works real well thou' for women and shorter people. Better try before you by, especially if you like to ride all day or are a hammerhead. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
I. Wood
a racer
from Nashville , TN, USA
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Great bike except for the fork. The fork need to be upgraded to a indy or better. I loved the weight and the pirce. Overall one great bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George Lin
a cross-country rider
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: December 3, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought it for $899 plus tax. The seatpost clamp is a cheap Trek piece which
never really held the seatpost in place. I eventually broke it trying to crank
it down and replaced it with a Salsa piece. Parts are hard to get. There's a
lots of attention to detail. For example, the rubber gasket which keeps water
out of the seattube was thrown away by my dealer, and I have yet to receive a new one. The chain deflector plate has been on back order for months, luckily
I found it somewhere else. Unluckily, it doesn't always work. It is definitely needed. No clear directions on how to mount it in the manual. The Shimano chain broke my first time out. Other than that, I think it's great. Pretty light for the price, although the Klein which cost the same was probably lighter. It came with great components. Too bad they didn't have v-brakes when I bought it. Handles great, climbs great. My friend who has a real Bontrager says it feels the same as his. Comes with cool bontrager parts. It's a piece of
history: the bike which resulted when Keith sold out. Just kidding. I love it. The only other alternative would have been the Klein Comp, also $899. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Niels P. Nielsen
a cross-country rider
from Denmark
Date Reviewed: November 26, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I think it's a very nice bike and I enjoy very much my rides on it. The only problem is the support and sparparts delivered from Denmark it doesn't work well. I waited 4 months for chain chock device (I don't know the way to spell it). Can't there be done something about the service level? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pico
a racer
from Belmont, MA
Date Reviewed: November 3, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Bontrager,. Quick steering bike
. Great climbing and very stable, rider’s weight is well distributed on the bike.
. Pay attention on descend (downhill), very responsive and does not allow any mistake (you’ll get used to it!)
. Grate handling for single tracks on the east coast but is a little too expensive.
*** Unusual great add value : welding is really different, they will never weld tubing joins across tubes (this help preventing weakness joins)Great job on this bike! Tried 3 hours with XT Groupo and Judy XC
(Attention it's beast, If you get to much excited it's a downUgo bike)Pico
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matthew Fife
a weekend warrior
from Delphi, IN
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Wow! Thats what I said when I got off the bike. This bike had everything I
was looking for XT/LX component set, Rock Shox Quadra 21, the works. They didn't
skimp in any way that I could tell on the components. It's a steel bike, but
was very light and handled like a beauty. The bike took some of the best lumps
I could dish out while easily maintaining beautiful control. This bike was
screaming that it wanted to come home with me! It puts a very aggressive forward
lean on the rider, but you felt very much in control of this bike. You feel
very solid while riding, but that later became its downfall for me. It didn't
seem to have the ability to lean very much. For some reason, I compared to a
Stumpjumper A1, it just wasn't as agile. I am also a little personally biased
towards aluminum frames.
If I wasn't getting a great deal on a Stumpjumper, this would have been
my choice. This is one of the best built bikes I've seen yet. The only thing
that is a little bad was the paint job. It just didn't seem right for the bike;
it didn't feel like it said I kick @ss!!. The decals, are a little overdone,
said ugh to me. With a much cooler paint job, this thing would have been in
my living room! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tracy clark
a weekend warrior
from athens, ga
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
model:race
I bought the privateer and added a judy dh and so far the bike is great!. My last bike was a cannondale f700 and the bontrager feels soooo much better, more predictable if that makes since. This is my first steel bike and I now wish i had tried it before I spent my money on other bikes. I do not know what else to say except that the bike is great and when I emailed bontrager about some questions KB himself responded, now that is service to me. In the future I plan to try my hand at racing so I will have to update you later.
| | Overall Rating: |
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