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Submitted by
johnnym85
a Cross Country Rider
from uk
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | all | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$15000.00 | | Purchased At: | a mate | | Strengths: | This bikes a billy goat climbing up a mountain. Its light, fast and really needs no rider when it'll happily climb a hill on its own steam. Gotta admit that going downhill can be a little scary when all it wants to do is race F1 cars or atleast match their speed. | | Weaknesses: | She's a damn bright colour and seems to attract punctures on a weekly basis but that might be due to the area i live in. | | Similar Products Used: | muddy fox | | Bike Setup: | the norm | | Bottom Line: | I've had this bike for 2 years now and though i don't get as much time to ride her lately. everytime i go out on her she offers me so much joy. I mock those slow riders and laugh at the fools pushing their bikes up hill when all i need do is just shift my weight and by beauty does all the work. The Mt Tam is a very fast and very sexy feeling bike. if only my girlfriend was a little bit the same. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Maestas
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn, NY
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | KS, CO, MO, NY, WA, OR | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Sunflower Bike Shop, Lawrence, KS (1997) | | Strengths: | Light, fast, well-balanced, has been reliable for over 10 years | | Weaknesses: | slightly tight cornering, stock Judy front shock isn't very stiff | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale full-suspension, Specialized RockHopper | | Bike Setup: | stock: chain, crank, deraileur, front shock, wheels
upgrades: carbon-fibre seatpost and handlebars, aluminum bar ends, better stem, racing saddle, super-lightweight calipers and different brakepads | | Bottom Line: | I have been using this bike exclusively since I bought it in 1997. Being my first real mountain bike, it has a special place in my heart. I wouldn't trade it for anything! If you're a bit of a gearhead and you like to tinker, this bike responds very well to upgrading. All qualms aside, this is (was) one of the lightest and most enjoyable hardtails out there. I'm gonna have to get something else eventually but I just can't bring myself to do it. I'll be riding this one until it's a pile of shavings.
Not surprisingly, it benefited greatly from being upgraded. I have never replaced any of the major components but I got some noticeable improvements with just minor upgrades, mostly regarding the weight. New CF handlebars, seatpost and saddle and super-lightweight calipers brought the weight down quite a bit and the bike became more responsive and swift. The stock front-end is too mushy, even at its highest setting. What can I expect from a low-end shock from 1997, anyway? I am going to give it a complete overhaul soon and I think it'll be as good as new. Frame is still solid. I haven't abused it much so it's held up just great. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Van Elderen
a Weekend Warrior
from Grand Rapids, MI
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Deep Lake Unit | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | from a friend | | Strengths: | Genesis geometry
Wango Mango | | Weaknesses: | Frame creaks a bit | | Bike Setup: | XT front/rear, Marzocchi EXR Pro, Bontrager/Velocity wheels | | Bottom Line: | I'm a big guy (260 lbs) and I was a bit skeptical about an aluminum frame. It was a good deal from a friend so I had to get it. This frame has held up incredibly. I just overhauled the whole thing, replaced all of my drivetrain and brake components and finally retired the Future Shock Pro that I've run with for 7 years and two bikes. Its a pretty light frame, but still beefy enough to handle some rough stuff. Although I will probably go with a steel frame next time, I don't regret buying the Mt. Tam.
If you can find a used one for a reasonable price, snag it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Danick Archambault
a Racer
from Montreal
Date Reviewed: June 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Hardwood Hills, Ontario | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Genesis Genesis and Genesis. The geometry is just the best out there...at least in my opinion! And after 5 years of racing, the frame is still strong. | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager components. I hope that Bontrager improved their products since 1998! Thus the reason why the overall Chilis is at 4. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized M2, Mongoose NX7.2 | | Bike Setup: | XTR Braket set and levers, XT Crank and Shifters, Mavic Cross Ride wheelset, Duke XC Fork | | Bottom Line: | I Purchased this bike at the beginning of the 1998 race season...and have been racing with it ever since...Why? Why change something great? Oh sure, most parts have been replaced over the past few years (the Bontrager Race wheels had to be changed after two years, the SID this year) but the overall performance of this bike made it unnecessary t change.
So if you are looking for a good second hand bike, a Gary Fisher will do the job! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Fogarty
a Cross Country Rider
from Minot, ND
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | medora | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | I love the way it climbs. Really smooth | | Weaknesses: | The icon pedals suck, they don't work for me anyway | | Similar Products Used: | specialized stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | Manitou SXr fork, rock shox seat post, XTR XT components, avid 2.0 brakes | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. i bought it for 900 bucks in november of 98. It was brand new so i couldn't pass it up. The ride is super smooth, especially with the seat shock. the bottom line is if you want a quick hardtail and you find a good price i would buy it. If you want to rip downhills it is good, but not the best. The fork absorbs and rebounds very well. I would however, change the pedals and maybe the siguno 700x crank- why is this on it.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richart Bridge
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
forest ridge trail | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
everything mama...I love this bike. The mango color goes with my cultural background...Mexico...definitivo... | | Weaknesses: |
the sugino crankset sucks... I need to have a tune up often mainly because of the crankset. | | Similar Products Used: |
specialized stumpjumper or something | | Bike Setup: |
XTR/XT components, Manitou XC fork, mavic crossland wheels/rims | | Bottom Line: | I love riding on this bike. The mavic rims do not bend at all...excellent...wow | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick P.
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: July 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Too many | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
Climbs like a bandit
Nearly indestructible | | Weaknesses: |
Must pay attention on cornering | | Similar Products Used: |
Kona Explosif
Cove Stiffee | | Bike Setup: |
Judy XC's
all XT componentry
V-brakes
Maxxis Mofo on Sun Rhino lites both ends | | Bottom Line: | Simply awesome. I rode (and crashed and bailed) many on the North Shore trails and at Squamish and I don't think I can break this thing. It survived a 30mph crash into a concrete bridge abutment that left me dazed and confused with only a bend in the front deraillur guide. Makes me climb well and I'm only now getting some skill at it. Only drawback I can think of is its cornering in switchbacks. Turns real tight, but the long top tube lets the front and back end do different things if you don't pay attention. also it (or I ) seems to be merciless on rear tires. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a Racer
from Springfield MO
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Sac river | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Climbes freaking smooth love the color and better shok than the 99 | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
Kona muni-mula, Haro Dx 2 | | Bike Setup: |
Mt. Tam, Manitou SX r, crossland's basicly stock. | | Bottom Line: | I bout mine at Ozark Cyclist in Springfield MO. It climb's like a goat on staroids, with great plush downhill. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James Henry
a weekend warrior
from Salt Lake City, Utah
Date Reviewed: March 4, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Got this bike used, but with King/Bontranger wheels & Ibis handlebar. Paid $1200. Not too light, and not too heavy, which I like. The ride isn't bad for Aluminium. The Sugino cranks have to go, I got replacement chainrings when I bought it, and broke them in a week. Probably going to get RaceFace Next, XT 98 ( I hate the way the new stuff looks), or XTR to replace it. The Avid brakes are good, but I'd have preferred XT or XTR becasue they use a bearing instead of a bushing. Overall, I am very happy with the bike, taking off 1 star for the cranks. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JAY McGRENEGHAN
a racer
from GREAT BRITAIN
Date Reviewed: December 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I BOUGHT MY TAM AT THE START OF THE NATIONAL POINT SERIES IN MARCH THIS YEAR.INFACT, I TOOK DELIVERY THE DAY BEFORE THE FIRST ROUND AT MARGAM PARK ,SOUTH WALES.IT WAS A FOUR HOUR DRIVE FROM SHEFFIELD AND THE BIKE WAS STILL IN THE BOX.ON ARRIVAL I EMPTIED MY NEW TOY OUT OF THE VAN (TRUCK TO YOU YANKS), AND OH NO , SHOCK HORROR!!!!!! THAT STEM WILL HAVE TO GO! FAR TO LOW, IS THAT!! SO ,TO COMPROMISE, ON WENT AN X-LITE RISER.THE BIKE CLIMBED SUPPERBLY, AND WAS SURPRISINGLY GENTLE ON THE DOWN SLOPES.ANYHOW I CRASHED OUT ,COMPLETING JUST TWO OUT OF FOUR LAPS.THE REASON? TWO REASONS.FIRSTLY,THE ICON PEDALS FITTED TO THE BIKE ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SHIMANO CLEATS, CONTRADICTING THE INFORMATION I WAS GIVEN BEFORE THE RACE .SECONDLY , SUGINO 700 CHAINSETS WOULD SERVE A MUCH BETTER PURPOSE BEING THROWN OUT OF A PATHFINDER SQUADRON OF B17's OVER BAGDAD.THIS PIECE OF FERRET DROPPING SERIOSLY LETS THE BIKE DOWN. THE CHAINLINE WAS WAY OUT,THUS CHAIN GAMES ARE INEVITABLE.YOU CAN'T TUNE THIS PROBLEM AWAY.SO MADISON, THE, THEN IMPORTER OF FISHER OBLIGED ME A FIVE ARM XT JOBBY. SUPER DUPER ,PROBLEM SOLVED. £1695 IS FAR TO MUCH FOR THIS BIKE AND IT WILL NOT SELL IN THE NUMBERS IT DESERVES BECAUSE OF THIS . INFACT ALL OF MR.FISHERS BIKES FOR 98 WERE PRICED OUT OF THE MARKET. IS THIS TREK'S DOING?
I'D EXPECT XT V's ON A BIKE OF THIS PRICE ALSO .
THE WHEEL'S, WHICH ARE SUPERB TRY TO MAKE UP FOR THE HIGH PRICE.
XTR UPSIDE DOWN, BACK TO FRONT REAR MACH REDUCES THUMB ACHE ON A LONG RIDE.
THE 27.2 BONTY COMP SEATPOST GIVES ENOUGH FLEX TO OFFER A RELATIVELY COMFY RIDE.
THE FRAME IS A NO NONSENSE NO FRILLS (APART FROM THE STAYS AND YOKE)GOD SEND!!!
IT'S LIGHT, STIFF IN THE BEST AREAS ,YET COMFY.(YES, I DO HAVE A BAD BACK ,re;CAR ACCIDENT)
THE FORKS COULD BE LIGHTER. FIONA WILSON, EX FISHER/MADISON X-COUNTRY RACER (ALSO MY GIRLFRIEND) HAS A 98 PARAGON FOR WINTER,WHICH IS EMBARRASSINGLY LIGHTER THAN MY BIKE.
CURRENTLY ALL I NEED IS A FRONT MECH AND B.B. / CHAINSET TO COMPLETE MY FULL XTR CONVERSION.
A LIGHTER FORK FOR RACING WOULD BE NEXT.IT HAS TO WITHSTAND THE RIGOURS OF THE BRITISH CLIMATE , AND BE SERVICE FRIENDLY.
THIS IS THE BEST HARDTAIL I'VE RIDDEN.
JUST AHEAD OF A 97 KONA EXPLOSIVE.
I'M BIDING MY TIME ,HOWEVER FOR THE ULTIMATE FULL SUS X-COUNTRY STEAD.
I'LL KEEP THIS BIKE , BECAUSE IT DOES EVERYTHING I COULD ASK OF A HARDTAIL | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin Coldiron
a cross-country rider
from California
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is O.K. If you race you need lighter stuff. this bike is a rip off at $1799 which is what I paid for it. The XTR rear rapidrise deraileur works great but the LX front is crap! It comes out of adjustment every 5 rides. The cranks, where's Gary Fisher, what kind of idiot is he putting Sugino cranks on an $1800 bike? What is Sugino whos ever heard of them. These cranks suck. There heavy, there ugly, they shift terribly. An XT crank would have been much better. The frame bent after one month but they replaced with a 99 Paragon frame which I like better. dont get this bike. Buy either the Supercaliber or a Trek 8900.It goes uphill really well but descends so so. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a racer
from bridgeport, CT
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased a 98 Mt.Tam and I'm stoked! This bike handles great and its climbing capabilities are amazing. I love to climb and love it even more on my Mt.Tam. Descending is not my greatest attribute but this bike has such a solid feel I find have more confidence coming down. The mango color is sweet too! If you can find a Mt.Tam on closeout GET IT! I can't wait for next race season. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Travis Tufte
a cross-country rider
from Menasha, Wisconsin
Date Reviewed: September 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm looking for a new bike and can't decide between the Mt. Tam and the Ziggurat. I was wondering if its worth paying the extra money for the Mt. Tam, because I think ROCK SHOX suck but I really like Manitou forks. I also want to know if the Crosslands are worth the extra bucks. E-mail me at sykosmurf8@aol.com if you have any suggestions. Thanks for any help you can give me. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a weekend warrior
from Santa Clarita, California
Date Reviewed: August 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I picked up a 98 Mt. Tam for $899 in June and I think I got an awesome deal. All they had left was a size XL, but I'm 6'2 so it fits.
This bike rides awesome. On the downhills the fork asborbs a lot of the impact and I'm not on the brakes as much as I used to be. With the lighter frame, I fly up the hills that I used to crawl up. This new geometry takes a little getting used to, but the steering is more precise with the shorter stem.
Gary makes great bikes, but why did he put Sugino cranks on them? I haven't even put 200 miles on my bike and one of the teeth on the middle chainring has already broken. Everything else on this bike--Mavic crosslands, XTR/LX components, SXR fork--are killer.
Even with the junk cranks I still have to give this bike 5 chilis. I got a great deal and if you are looking to spend $1000 or more, don't forget to check out the Mt. Tam.
This bike rules and looks better than most out there. Buy it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete Lacny
a racer
from DuBois, PA
Date Reviewed: July 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Mark,I work in a Fisher dealer in my hometown, and I bought a 96 Tam when I first got my job. I totally dig the frame and am still riding it. The bike is now full XTR with Crossmax wheels, but I still kept the killer Bontrager seatpost that came stock on the bike.Best thing to polish the Easton Elite frame with? Definitely MOthers Aluminum Polish, You can pick it up at Wal Mart and it is pretty cheap. One can of it lasted me an entire two seasons of regular polishing.
Peace. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a cross-country rider
from New Hampshire
Date Reviewed: June 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the '96 Mt. Tam in the spring of 1998. Found it for $975 and I think it was a hell of a deal. I had been riding a tank, Giant Iguana, I can't even explain the difference. It climbs so well it unbelievable. The only problems I've had are that it had sitting in a warehouse or showroom for such a long time I had to replace both tubes and one tire. What does everyone reccommend to shine up the polished aluminom frame after a hard ride. Someone told me furniture polish? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a racer
from Littleton CO
Date Reviewed: June 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I initially feared that I had settled in buying this bike- as a roadie (with deep mtn bike roots-really!), I thought I might want a little more XTR or maybe a Ti frame. The super great price deal I got on this bike persuaded me to take a chance on it though, and I really dug the fact that it came with Crosslands. While I initially had no opinion on the geometry, I have come to think this is a good design. It is a great climber. My descending skills prohibit a meaningful opinion on the bike's downhill capabilities. I kinda miss the aesthetics of the longer stem, but maybe size doesn't really matter after all, as long as the bike fits properly... That weight number up top? I weighed mine (it's a large) before adding cages, etc- 24.8 lbs. I mean, that's nothing to be embarrassed about, so why exaggerate so? Oh yeah, the fork handles far better than my old Judy XC- the steering is way more precise, much less torsional flex. Perhaps the narrower crown? My previous rides have been a Scott Elite Racing 96, a Bridgestone MB1 93, and a Bridgestone MB4 91. This bike compares favorably to any of them. Oh yeah, and I think the Sugino rings suck. They shift nicely, but wear absurdly quickly. And since they're 4 arm cranks, I can't put really nice rings on it (to my friends at Real-Design). I'm gonna give this puppy 4 stars, but like Steve Gogolak (I couldn't EVEN make up a name that sounds that cool!) says below, the Mt. Tam is an excellent entry level racer. What does it say about cycling that an entry level race bike costs like, $1700? When I have kids, it's BMX for them, I guess. Or is that exorbitantly expensive, too?
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Gogolak
a cross-country rider
from MA
Date Reviewed: June 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is an excellent entry level XC racer. It is light enough for the Pros yet affordable. I own one myself, and I love it. It is an excellent climber with its low weight, and fun to ride because it is fast! With a few upgrades, such as a SID and some component stuff, the weight will be featherlike, and it can be a top quality bike, and any Pro would love it. Buy it, Fisher Rules! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bug
a cross-country rider
from palatine, Illinois
Date Reviewed: May 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Heyyyy. Wow. I love this bike no...I loooove this bike it is so sweet to ride and I mean...just LQQK at it !!!~ I's a girl and I used to ride a Bridgestone CroMo that weighed a bit more. I sat on this brushed aluminum feather light dream machine and it was like riding on rails through the single track.I cant believe the handling. :)~ I find myself on higher gears now going up the same hills I used to have to granny gear on. I compared my Mt Tam to my hubby's Trek 8000 and I think they are both good bikes but I feel faster on my GF over all and more centered on the corners. My abillity to attack tougher courses has improved incredibly and I cant believe the higher speeds I am achieving on my Mt Tam.... I feels like I gots rockets on me now. ....Of course I would be happy riding a rusty 'Peewee Herman' cruiser as long as I am ON THE TRAIL! ~ (yeah rite)~ I just love to ride and the Mt Tam makes me love it even more. I urge you to test this bike out , you wont be dissappointed. I give this bike five Smoochie ' Make -Yer-Lips-Tingle' Chile Peppers.!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl
a racer
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: April 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i have the 98 model this bike is a good bike stock but some things hold it back from being a great bike but they are minor, the sugino crank and icon pedals have to go! other than that it is a great bike and the ne genesis geometry really works | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a cross-country rider
from Westchester, NY
Date Reviewed: April 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I picked up my 98 Mt. Tam ( $ 1749 ) on March 26,1998 and have ridden at least 20 times in varying conditions / terrain to really get a fair and accurate evaulation ofthe bike. At first I think I suffered price-related buyer's remorse. This bike is more than twice the price of my last bike ( before numerous upgrades) '90 Bridgestone MB-3. The Mt Tam's approval rating has since steadily increased. I think the bike is a good ride and a pretty good value;
I wanted to buy as much of a bike as I could afford upfront, to try and stave off the upgrade fever. So far so good. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
e.m.
a weekend warrior
from los angeles, california, USA
Date Reviewed: February 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Mt. Tam with the Genesis frame is an excellent all-around bike. I wasn't even looking to buy a new bike when I took the '98 Mt. Tam for a spin, but I was immediately hooked. My frame of reference is to a Specialized Stumpjumper M2. The biggest differences are weight and handling: the weight is such that I can do climbs in one higher gear than on my M2, and the Mt. Tam is much more stable, especially at slower speeds on tight single-track and steep climbs. I feel completely in control in all sorts of tight spots. The components work well together (I replaced the rapid-fires with gripshifts), and the Manitou fork is really smooth: the bike feels like it's one piece, it all clicks! I HIGHLY recommend the Mt. Tam. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a racer
from New York
Date Reviewed: February 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got my Tam From Fisher as part of the GrassRoots program Thanks FISHER. This Bike is SWEET,light.fast makes my old bike feel like a tank.Genesis geometry fits like a glove.Crosslands are SO LIGHT i'am afraid of them.I go 220lbs WE will see if they can handle me.SX TPC is the fork for me getting the frim ride kit from answer.Raced on gripshift for years so I have to get some time on XTR SGS before I rate them .THIS BIKE IS SWEET E-mail me if you have ???.Fisher will answer ? at there Web site 2 they get back to U fast. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Careman
a racer
from Mass
Date Reviewed: February 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Well I guess this is the best way to get some info. I'm not sure whether to get the Fisher Ziggurat or the Klein Pulse Pro. I like to climb and ride technical singletrack. I like gripshift but want something cool looking too. Please e-mail me with your opinion and I'll be glad to help fellow cyclists. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dayna Glaspie
a cross-country rider
from Burlingame, CA
Date Reviewed: February 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a great bike, I got mine last night and went on a 15 miles ride it was wonderful! It climbs like a dream and the shock (manitou SX-R) is great! I didnt think I'd like the Mango color but it surprised me. I feel so fast and quick on it that I cant wait to race on it this March! I also love the new genesis geometery! If you are coming to the S.F. Bay area or live around here, drop me a e-mail, lets go riding, later, I'm off to Skeggs! Dayna *S* | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil
a cross-country rider
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: January 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Yeah, this is me again. I just wanted to mention again what a great bike this is, and you will definitely be pleased with it. If you are getting ready to purchase a new bike then look into this one. It has great everything and definitely has my choice since I am going to get it in July. Check it out! I definitely give this bike 5 chilies ( Would give it 10 if they allowed me to ) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil
a cross-country rider
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: January 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I think this is a great bike and I'm getting it in July of 98'. It has great shocks, components, is light, and has everything you need a great hardtail mountain bike. I would recommend this bike over any other bike besides the Gary Fisher Joshua Z0. It has an XTR rear derilleur, LX front derilleur, XT Rapidfire SL, Manitou SXR with 70mm of travel, WTB Greaseguard AHeadset, Mavic Rossland Rims, and Avid 20 brakes!!!! This bike is awesome, and make sure you check it out if you're going to buy a new bike, it definitely has my choice! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Superdave
a weekend warrior
from Orlando, Florida
Date Reviewed: January 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the '96 model about 1-1/2 years ago and I love it. Great specs for the price, lightweight, great handling, looks good, great climber. The stiff ride (aluminum frame) took a little getting used to after riding cro-moly for years, but I would never go back. Rides better than the stumpjumper or any yuppie Cannondale P.O.S. Only problem I have had is the mavic 221 rims getting out of shape. I plan on upgrading to better rims and V brakes soon. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Graeme
a weekend warrior
from California
Date Reviewed: November 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is the bomb. Hella lite. Kick ass. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Humphrey
a cross-country rider
from Seattle
Date Reviewed: November 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS IS A FOLLOW UP-Nearly a year ago I posted a little review about the Mt. Tam and every word I said is still true! While some things have been replaced in favor of XTR like the brakes shifters and levers and some Race Face cranks the frame itself I have really been pleased with. the best thing of all is that it doesn't hold me back. Every day I feel like I'm becoming a better rider. I'm unfamiliar about the new Genesis geometry, but the Tam is back this year after a year of being squeezed out by the double boinger craze. The new Tam has some hot hot stuff (like crosslands spec oooooh). If the old Tam speaks anything for the new, anybody considering buying an amazing ride should at least check it out.-peace (five chilis bc. they don't offer six | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
cheasa
a cross-country rider
from USA
Date Reviewed: October 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike kicks ass | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sean
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: September 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Damn!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ElPhantasmo
a cross-country rider
from DC
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
LOVE IT | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a weekend warrior
from Montana
Date Reviewed: July 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
It really stinks that Fisher dropped the Mt.Tam for 97. The Paragon pales in comparrison. I had my 96 Mt.Tam stolen last week and cant replace it with another :-< It was great while it lasted!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom R
a cross-country rider
from WI
Date Reviewed: April 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I shopped around a lot until I decided on the Mt. Tam because of specs for the money. Have been riding it for a little over a year now and have raced it several times. Its all held up realy well except for the mavic rims witch didn't last long, but part of that could be because of my riding style and 180 pound weight. It will fly up hills, but you pay for that with a stiff ride. Is very quick and responsive. Also would suggest switching brakes to V's very big improvement. Its not quite a 5 because of rims and brakes but its better than a 4. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh
a weekend warrior
from Idaho
Date Reviewed: April 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I love this bike. Rides and feels great. Havn't had any probs with it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jared b
a weekend warrior
from IDAHO , U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: March 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Love this bike! Best feeling bike i have ridden. Built for hard trails. Never have had any problems with it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steven owen
a
from west bend
Date Reviewed: March 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS IS A GREAT BIKE. AFTER TWO YEARS ABUSE, NO PROBLEMS. LIGHT WEIGHT, DURABLE AND COOL LOOKING. WHAT MORE DO YOU NEED? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Allen Speedy Gonzalez
a racer
from Cupertino
Date Reviewed: March 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is awesome!!! The components are good. This bike has a good response on the trail. I have a 96 Mt.Tam it jams on the trails. You can't beat this bike for the price you pay for. What makes this bike is the frame. I highly recommend this bike if you're looking for an above average bike. I recently upgraded to XTR and it's even lighter than before. This bike should be considered the bike of the year. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dylan
a cross-country rider
from nevada
Date Reviewed: February 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
the two fisher/trek mt tams in my life were mediocre for the $1500 spent.
mine has misaligned seatstays that no shop could get the flexy lx
cantis to brake without pad dive. the geometry is terrible, climbing
is quite a feat, anything steep and the frnt wheel leaps off the ground.
my friend's tam developed a crack under the headtube after a 2 seasons
of casual riding, his lbr told him fisher doesn't have any more
frames and to ride his till it breaks! that may partially be
the dealer's fault but he still has a broken frame. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Havelka
a racer
from Greenwich, CT. 06831
Date Reviewed: February 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great Bike, nice handling, could use a better saddle, also could use an Judy SL, a stiffer front hub, nice light siff aluminum frame is cool stuff | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Carrott
a cross-country rider
from Chicago, IL
Date Reviewed: January 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I rode all last season on a specailized, rockhopper. However, after that
bike, failed to survive the trip to Winterpark a new bike was needed.
I demoed and test rode just about every high end hard tail out there, and couldn't
find any stifer, lighter, faster, or cooler looking than the Tam. I don't
know why but fisher is no longer making this awesome bike for '97, I was able
to get one of the last ones ouut of the fisher warehouse, or so I was told
I don't care, I've already put stud tires on it and rode up the Kettles in
December (pure ice) but this bike raced up the hills and had no problems
on the big drops, all it needed was XT-V brakes for more stopping power.
The best bike I ever rode, can't wait for spring. I would give it 6 stars
if they let me!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dylan Crotty
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: January 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Mt. Tam is awesome. I love the control I seem to have over the bike. The bontrager rims work very well and I am yet to bend one after a year. (I weigh 230 lbs.) The Judi Shock is smooth as hell. I got the bike for $900 on a year end close-out. Can you believe that?? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gerald ung
a cross-country rider
from fairfax, virginia
Date Reviewed: January 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
mt. tam kicks serious ass. looks sweet, and rides real good. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
vegar jensen
a downhiller
from norway
Date Reviewed: January 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
you are the best
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Ritchey
a cross-country rider
from jax, Fl
Date Reviewed: December 19, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Tam in Mar. of 95. It was definitely more nimble than my GT tequesta I had before. The Mt. Tam is a great bike if you are looking for a quick turning ride that climb like a rocket. The only down side is with chainstays so short and aluminum tubes so large the Mt. Tam can be quite abusive to the rider. I found that 40lbs of pressure in the rear tire can offset this but compared to a steel bike it is very stiff. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Humphrey
a weekend warrior
from Seattle, Washington
Date Reviewed: December 1, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
After riding all 30+ lbs of a Univega Alpina Trail for the past 6 years, I couldn't take it anymore. The stock tread had long worn thin, the paint was thoroughly chipped, the deraillieur was busted, dragging my feet worked better than the plastic brake levers, and every time I wanted to convert from ascent to descent or vice versa I had to dismount and beat the shifters to bloody submisson. Summer mission: attain a new set of wheels at all costs. You know there are a lot of bikes out there, and unfortunate for most of you out there, the Mt. Tam is thoroughly glossed over in preference of the Stumpjumper. SUCKERS! Not only are you getting a mass produced bicycle but you're paying for substandard goods. In relation to the Tam that is. The Mercury Dream ship will blow the competition out of the water.The geometry is great for climbing. A friend of mine has a $4000 S-Works and he whoops my ass on the descents. Last time we raced it didn't make up for the Mt. Tam's climbing prowess. Granted my lungs are better than his, but the Mt. Tam leaps up some pretty steep stuff with ease. The stock 535's are great pedals. I have absolutely no complaints. The bike is light as air, the shifting is more crisp than Kentucky Fried and it's got the most kick ass finish on the market. (polished). For '97 the bike should realy have XT V-brakes, but in short, the Mercury Dream ship is worth every penny. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DJ Sagadraca
a cross-country rider
from Hawaii
Date Reviewed: October 28, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned my Mt. Tam now for over a year and a half and still treat it as if I bought
it yesterday. Needless to say I really enjoy riding my investment. The geometry of
this bike is excellent, not to mention the components that came with it...pretty
tough to upgrade. So there... :-)
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Casey
a cross-country rider
from Rhode Island
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
When my year old Gt Avalnche LE was stolen in the beggining of the summer, it was a blessing. Don't get me wrong, I loved my GT. It was a real heavy duty bike. But from the moment I saw the empty rack out side a resturant in Martha's Vineyard, the search was on for a new bike. I tried the Trek 8000, the GT Zaskar and Stumpjumper. Then I rode the Mt. Tam. There was no comparison. I knew I was going to buy this bike. This bike is standard with 535 clipless and Judy XC's. The other bikes mentioned did not include such goodies and were still in the same price range. There is something to be said about the geomerty of a Fisher Frame. They love to climb. The frame is also very stong. I'm 6'1, 205lbs and spend alot of time off the ground , this frame can definiatly take the abuse I shell out. So if you have around $1400 to spend on bike,( or if you plan on spending more, don't),check out the Mt. Tam, It's worth every penny. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brett Ter Smitte
a weekend warrior
from Canada
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Wow! After working all summer, raising the coin I looked everywhere for a bike.
I asked everyone for their opinions, including racers, and store owners. This
brought me to a small bike store ( the only one in the area that carries Gary
Fisher bicycles ) where it was explained to me why this bike is better than the
other bikes I had looked at. After a test ride, and a change of underwear I
decided that I couldn't live without it.
I've ridden everywhere, on trails, the street, and down more stairs than I can
count. Standard on the Mt. Tam is the extended travel package on my Judy's.
This makes for a great ride, that lets you go anywhere. The components that come
with the bike are great, and I've had no problems with the bike whatsoever for
over a year. The ride is worth the price of admission!
This bike is very light and handles great, racing parts work like a charm
and I can take out all of the wanna-be's anywhere they'll follow.
This may not be of interest, but my father who is 230 lbs. saw how much fun I
was having, and bought the exact same bike. ( the biter )
| | Overall Rating: |
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