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Submitted by
Jamin555
a Cross Country Rider
from Hopkins, MN
Date Reviewed: September 24, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | The one next to my house... | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$360.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Frame | | Weaknesses: | Components | | Similar Products Used: | Had one of the first Schwinn's marketed as a "Mountain Bike". | | Bike Setup: | Purchased new in 1988. It was on sale because it was an 1987 model. Installed fenders and rack before the first ride. In 1996 I replaced the fork with a Rock Shox, replaced chain, all cables, tires, seat and handle bars. This summer I purchased a used GT MTB as a parts bike. Replacing the rear rim and gear set with one that is straight and has teeth left, has made riding this beast fun again... | | Bottom Line: | During the 21 years I have owned this bike, I have never regretted the purchase. The GT frame is what got my attention first because it appeared to be designed to actually take on a mountain. I have bent rims, seats and handle bars, but never the frame. The GT looked very alien back then and for a few years I used to get a lot of questions. I only wish new replacement parts were easily obtainable. This old Tequesta still keeps me flying down that trail... | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
floyd_england
a Weekend Warrior
from Coventry, England
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | The one I'm on | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Second hand in '91 ( | | Strengths: | Bullet proof, it was ridden for 5 years when originally purchased, then thrown to the back of the garage. One day 3 years ago I rediscovered her, she was ridden standard for a while then evolved as Singlespeed (horizontal dropouts :o) ), fixie, then recently the carbon fork arrived and a 29er front wheel. I know I've thrown good money at an old bike, but I don't care, it's a pleasure to ride and always gets people talking at the trailhead! | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | You expect me to remember the bikes from 25+ years of riding!!! | | Bike Setup: | 1989 GT Tequesta, original Dia Compe X1 Rear levers and XCE U brake, Raceface Deus XC riser Bars, Deore Crank, DXR / e-thirteen Chainwheels, DXR / Gusset SS sprockets, London Fixie ISO sprocket, ASDA (Bell)Universal 1/8" chains,
Mavic Crossride rear using slime tube with reversible rear Wheel, SS freewheel or ISO Disc Mounted Fixie :o) Exotic Jump Creature carbon forks, with Mavic 29er front wheel, stopped by Hope M4 DH brake setup..... So in summary the only original bits are the frame, plus rear brake lever and caliper! :o) | | Bottom Line: | She's now 20, OK not a lot of the original bike remains, but nothing that has been replaced broke, it was just worn out.
Last year I put her back as close as possible to original, rim brakes, gears, original forks, 26in wheels etc and rode the 48k in the Marin Rough Ride......and came 27th out of 600....(a 43 year old on a 19 year old bike)...who needs the latest and greatest???? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
drab
a Weekend Warrior
from Everett,WA USA
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Interurban | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$25.00 | | Purchased At: | Craigslist | | Strengths: | Solid | | Weaknesses: | No complaints so far | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Standard stuff, previous owner had installed old school bull horn handlebars | | Bottom Line: | This is an early 80's model, not sure which year, but I paid only $25, and all I did was air up the tires and lube the chain. I am converting it into a commuter, and other than the big frame, everything is grand. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
myspace.com/rttu
a Weekend Warrior
from portland,oregon, usa
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | mt. tabor | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | used | | Strengths: | very good bike, all original but i did change the chain. very light, quiet, strong. for some reason mine has front shocks. | | Bottom Line: | this bike is good | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
RickO
a Weekend Warrior
from Knoxville, TN
Date Reviewed: August 19, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Haw Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$540.00 | | Purchased At: | Wets Hills Bicycle | | Strengths: | Durabilty. I've ridden the bike for around 13 years and just replaced chain, rear cassette, and brake shoes this year. Everything else is original equipment. Well besides tires. | | Weaknesses: | Shifters and brakes are one assembly. Wanted to switch to v-brakes and was told it would cost more than it was worth to do. | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose | | Bike Setup: | Original components except added Rock Shox and seatpost shock. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. I love mine. It's great on or off road. Would probably cost double what I originally paid for it to purchase a comparable replacement so I'm taking care of it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rawze
a Weekend Warrior
from maryville tn
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | greenbelt | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | the bike shop | | Strengths: | well built | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | cannondale and trek | | Bike Setup: | like new, stock. added a few things to personlize it. | | Bottom Line: | great bike i got a great deal on it in like new condition. bought new pedals,race face deux stem, hellbent riserbar, wtb team headset. not that it needed any of this stuff, just wanted it...lol
also looking at crank sets | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Q
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, Az
Date Reviewed: May 5, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | nothing in particular | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | BICAS | | Strengths: | Cro-mo frame, cool cable routing groove in the frame. Solid wheelset, light as heck. | | Weaknesses: | Needed a lot of work, sanding, etc. Some of the old parts were difficult to remove. | | Similar Products Used: | GT i-Drive(s) 1.0, 4.0, Backwoods | | Bike Setup: | Originally all STX stuff, the brakes and the wheels are all that remain (STX hubs and Mavic rims).
KORE stem, Soma handlebar, Specialized Strongarm II cranks, WTB Laser V saddle, Avid levers | | Bottom Line: | Can't beat this bike for $60. I've converted it to a SS bike and it's a blast. Nice stand-in for my fixie if / when we get bad weather. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from dallas, tx
Date Reviewed: March 3, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | village cycle, brea ca | | Strengths: | indestructable. 6'3" 200+ and VERY hard on bikes. It can take a crash | | Weaknesses: | weight | | Bike Setup: | suntour baby, suntour. you can keep the shimano, I will take xcpro anytime | | Bottom Line: | bought new in 92. rode the bejeezus out of it for years. sat for 4 years in the back yard of my apt at the beach and still worked. Loved it so much I just bought all NOS parts off ebay and am rebuilding it now.
side note: sent it to the powdercoater and examined once the frame was stripped, not a broken weld or crack anywhere. I love this bike and will keep it forever. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve watkins
a Weekend Warrior
from uk
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | dave mellor cycles. shropshire | | Strengths: | Strong. Very respoinsive. Very reliable. | | Weaknesses: | They dont make them any more | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 750 - poor in comparison | | Bike Setup: | Shortened zoom bars | | Bottom Line: | I have riden and abused this bike for 17 years - Bought in 1990 and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT. When the chain broke and my wheels finally gave out, chainrings worn down to stumps my heart broke. Seems too expensive to replace parts and am wondering if the Avalanche can match this impressive bike. This bike cost me (not counting tyres etc)less than $50 per year. What a blast for less than $1 per week.
Goodbye old friend. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Fourer
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago, IL
Date Reviewed: October 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere I can get lost | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$475.00 | | Purchased At: | Some little bike shope | | Strengths: | Strong frame and fork and wheels. Shimano STX components durable and serviceable, especially the cantilever brakes and brake lever/index shifter combos. | | Weaknesses: | rims cheap and heavy, bottom bracket wore out, rear derailleur wore out, pedals wore out, cable housings wore out. Headset wore out but I should have serviced it. Stem broke after 7 years and I could have got killed, but most of bike is very strong. Heavy heavy bike. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock until things wore out. No shocks. Replaced rims with aluminum. | | Bottom Line: | I'm finally getting rid of this bike after 11 years and thousands of street and trail miles around the USA. Lots of sun and dirt and mud and rain and snow. I have 1994 model that came with threadless headset and no shocks. This bike is at it's best in challenging off-road conditions because frame and wheels are strong and it handles well. In the city with 1.5-inch slick tires it's responsive and durable but not comfortable (too large frame for me maybe). Most of the time I had no money and depended on this bike. Never broke a spoke in 12 years and frame and fork will last 100 years. Lots of memories! | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Balazs Magyar
a Cross Country Rider
from Budapest
Date Reviewed: October 9, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | used market | | Strengths: | Stable, strong, looks good even when it is at least 8 years old | | Weaknesses: | For my height of 6 feet, the 22" frame is a little bit large, but for riding it in city conditions, is not so bad. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Caldera | | Bike Setup: | Grey coloured Tequesta, STX front der, now Alivio rear der. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is at least 8 years old, with its Cro-mo frame it is strong, but somteimes the rigid fork is not so good for my arms. With its slick tires I can ride with quite fast speed, so for touring and city purposes it is great for me with rigid fork as well. Unfortunately some original parts are replaced on it, like wheels, rear derailleur but the bike looks quite retro, and this is good. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
M
a Cross Country Rider
from Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Clean Machine | | Strengths: | I've had this bike for seven years now, and the frame is still structurally solid. I've broken most of the rest of the parts though... | | Weaknesses: | Shift gear is not that accurate - needs an upgrade from stock to be 99% reliable - stock its 95%. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale, Trek. | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock, Shimano upgrades, various seats. Blackburn riser to make the bike more comfy for my 200 lbs. | | Bottom Line: | Even after so many years, this bike is worth the $250 retrofit to bring it back to life. If you can find an old Tequesta for cheap, its a good frame.
One thing I love about mine is the paint - never seen another Tequesta with the red to black paint with the flames decal. Its a unique bike that gets me around without complaint. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from huntington beach, ca,usa
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | village cycles | | Strengths: | durable, durable durable, I have tried to kill this bike since 1992. still works | | Weaknesses: | heavy, if you are a little girlyman | | Similar Products Used: | trek, mongoose, giant. | | Bike Setup: | pedals, seat blah blah, componentry all original (suntour xcpro) | | Bottom Line: | this bike has been crashed, jumped,jumped and crashed ridden fast (and crashed) and crashed some more and held up. I am 6'3", 230. I put it on my apt back porch for four years in Hunt Bch and it still works well. I love this bike and will never get rid of it. good for anyone who is looking for an all around monster of a bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
meshach singleton
a
from portland
Date Reviewed: January 26, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | anny where | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | comuty.cicling center | | Strengths: | the strogest bike I've oned | | Weaknesses: | not weak at all, but is hevy | | Similar Products Used: | shimano,speshlised | | Bike Setup: | fully loaded bike | | Bottom Line: | I got it for $200.00 and now is wrth $2000.00 and is wrth evrey penny.if you take good care of it, it will last you forever. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Weekend Warrior
from Wollongong, Australia
Date Reviewed: January 26, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Wilsons Bikes | | Strengths: | Bullet proof frame. Deore gears go great on this bike. Great feel on the track. Great brakes. | | Weaknesses: | It's heavy. You notice the weight when you have to lift it over objects. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Rincon | | Bike Setup: | Standard setup. Deore gears. | | Bottom Line: | I have used this bike over 10 years. It's been over all soughts of terrain and conditions and is still going strong. This is one tough bike. It's very easy to control whether downhill or X-country and the brakes are powerful with good feel. It's on the heavy side compared to todays aluminium frames. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Mahalik
a Downhiller
from Columbia
Date Reviewed: July 21, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | ozark trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Carbondale Cycles | | Strengths: | Strength of frame is unbelievable ... I've stump, rock, and creek jumped and dropped the bike with aluminum Cannondales and Treks in my dust. | | Weaknesses: | The years (10 years and dying) couldn't keep up with technology (aluminum frames, rock shocks, speed shifters, and high gears) . . . yet, I take it into the bike shop with pride and gusto. | | Similar Products Used: | Looked at the Trek, Gary Fisher, Cannondale in a state of denial . . . I'm not in a race but realize that I'm no longer part of the pack. | | Bike Setup: | Deore LX rear, STX front . . . no rock shock, ride it real. | | Bottom Line: | Even though I know my bike's time has come, I can't help but love the fact that it was a steal 10 year and gone with it's name still known . . . a classic in mountain cycling. Thanks, GT and Southern Illinois terrain! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Andersen
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, Idaho, US
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Greenbelt | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$15.00 | | Purchased At: | Police bike auction | | Strengths: | Awesome frame very strong. | | Weaknesses: | A little heavy | | Similar Products Used: | Other Gt's | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a monster, it will take whatever I dish out. I have just started riding again and a good friend bought several GT's for me at a police auction bike sale. They are easy to work on, comfortable and incredibly strong. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tiago Santos
a
from Portugal, Aveiro
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Eixo, Aveiro | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Bike Setup: | Marzzochi xcr, v brakes Shimano Lx, Cassete Shimano Lx | | Bottom Line: | Tenho esta bicla à quase 10 anos e, tirando a mer.. dos pneus que estão sempre a furar, nunca me deu problemas! Realmente é resistente e com uma excelente posição de condução (para subir, rolar, e mesmo trilhos técnicos)...
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mattias
a Cross Country Rider
from svall,västernorrland,sweden
Date Reviewed: August 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | south mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | moped&motor ab | | Strengths: | Really strong frame, no flex at all, love it. Good brakes (avid ad-1.0, avid 20), good tires(wtb enduro raptor) | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | marvil cola and so on | | Bike Setup: | all LX, alivio, XTR. onza bar ends etc. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike, a little bit heavy. I've driven it to school and in the woods, you can jump real high and do anything with it, you never stop going. If you need a bike, buy this!!!. It's my first GT but I'm going to keep buying GT. IT RULEZ. bought it at sale, 20% cheaper + half price (1200$, original price). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darren Durrett
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, TX
Date Reviewed: March 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Cameron Park in Waco, TX | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | "The Bicycle Store" OKC, OK | | Strengths: | Good Price, VERY strong | | Weaknesses: | A bit heavy! Also the Rock Shock XC that is came with is a glorified pogo stick. I had to replace virtually all of the guts to make it ride okay for me. Oh yeah and I am supposed to say that the pedals stink. | | Similar Products Used: | Various Treks, Gary Fisher Pro Caliber '92 | | Bike Setup: | Gutted XC Fork, Profile Stem, Onza Bar-ends, Kalloy Seat Post, Yeti Grips, Specialized Saddle, ritchie pedals (a must) | | Bottom Line: | Great Bike for the price. I used this bike all summer at a Christian Sports Camp leading and teaching mountain cycling in central Texas. This bike was ridden everyday off road for the entire summer. Over the past 4 years, the stem, seat, seat post and numerous chains have perished, yet the frame is still rock solid! Bottom Line is that is is bomb-proof and a great bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Arthur
a Weekend Warrior
from Roswell, GA, US
Date Reviewed: March 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | local | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$140.00 | | Purchased At: | pawn | | Strengths: | This bike is a beast. This thing can handle anything you throw at it. I have this bike for around five years and ride around 8 hours a week and have only ever had it tuned once and only had 2 blown tires. Its a tank I've done drops 20 foot jumps ect. Even though its not mad for that kind of maddness it can handle it. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Gt rebound | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | If you want a dependable bike that will last a life time this bike is for you. Trust me it can handle anything you dish out to it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rat
a Cross Country Rider
from toronto, ontario, canada
Date Reviewed: March 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | anything that used to be a railroad track | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$425.00 | | Purchased At: | ramsays | | Strengths: | great stock part selection for the price
better than average acceleration
rapidfire
extremely versatile and durable - I've ridden this bike hard for 5 years
| | Weaknesses: | brakes never grabbed hard enough, couldn't fix them but maybe that's just me.
Chainrings a little small for my taste (22-32-42)
Reach slightly too long for its size | | Similar Products Used: | giant iguana | | Bike Setup: | stock parts, have used with continental town and country slicks | | Bottom Line: | after about 10,000 km, all that I replaced was the cassette once and chain (several). I have used this bike for singletrack, courier work and loaded touring. It was a steller ride on all areas. still completely solid, but going into retirement, making way for a new road bike. Will still use for city and trail. This is really more of a tribute than a review | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam Coxhill
a Weekend Warrior
from Hucknall, Nottingham, England
Date Reviewed: November 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Sherwood pines | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$469.00 | | Purchased At: | Halfords | | Strengths: | Really good frame and components, I really like the GT agressor 2.0 feel of the steering due to the angle of the head tube. I also like the seat position. | | Weaknesses: | The only weakness i found with this bike was the boumcy fork. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Arrowhead. | | Bike Setup: | The set up is Accera Groupset suntour cranks and WTB headset in which I'm all impressed with | | Bottom Line: | In all I think the GT aggressor 2.0 is a great little bike with it's looks and being made by a well named brand it's a great bike for the price. The bike is really cool especially for kids its not a top end Downhiller but i've put it through it's paces and nothings bad happened. This bike is aimed at entry level racers and weekend warriors or kids. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Delaware
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Purchased At: | A Friend | | Strengths: | The bike is surprisingly light for a chro-moly. Tough as sh*t. Only upgrades needed are pedals. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6000 | | Bike Setup: | Time ATEC carbon pedals, XT, Race Face Stem, Easton Monkey Lite riser | | Bottom Line: | The bike is awesome. Of course you have to put stuff on it but that is half the fun. It takes one hell of a beating, and asks for more. Factory components are actually not to bad except for the profile stem. An awesome sub $900 bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Portsmouth, NH, USA
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Geometry is great, bike is extremely nimble, and balanced pretty decently. | | Weaknesses: | Hmmm...would have been nice to have a sus. fork from the beginning...but hey, it lets you choose your own, I guess. Needed a major component upgrade after about two years or so, which was a drag, but there was at that point about 3,500 miles were seen over the tires. | | Similar Products Used: | The list goes on... | | Bike Setup: | UPgrade to all LX (Except rear derailleur which is XT), ROCKSHOX INDY SL, Velociraptor Kevlars, lots of love | | Bottom Line: | This bike has lasted in al coniditions, from wet and muddy with studs, to dry, hot and sandy. The stock components won't last too long, as you would expect, since riding this thing is an addiction. Expect to replace the fork with your own favorite front shock (INDY SL with Eglunds are great). Takes a beating with its head held high (not much stress that I can feel at all). Loves cruising the single-track, and stays very steady to pick its own trail, while allowing the rider to nimbly navigate almost any obstacles. Great for portaging, traditinal triangle geometry makes it easy to go over the sholder. Take good care of her, and she will go with you until you realize you actually want the 4,000 dollar bike... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kurt blattner
a Weekend Warrior
from philly, pa,usa
Date Reviewed: September 23, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Purchased At: | from my friend | | Strengths: | LOVE THE RAPID FIRE SHIFTERS, I LIKE THE BRAKES TOO, THE PERFECT BALANCE OF GRABBY/WONT PUT YOU OVER THE BARS | | Weaknesses: | THE TIRES, MAN THEY JUST DONT GRAB, TIOGA PSYCHO'S BLOW, THEY REALLY CANT HOLD ON TO ANYTHING, I WAS RACING MY FRIEND DOWN HILL , ON PAVEMENT, AND THEY STILL WHERE ALL OVER THE PLACE | | Similar Products Used: | TRECK AND DIAMOND BACK EQUIVALENTS | | Bike Setup: | I HAVE A HUGE FRAME ON MY BIKE, IM NOT SHURE THE DIMENSIONS BERCAUSE I GOT IT FROM A FRIEND, BUT ITS BIG, I LIKE IT THOUGH, UM PRETTY MUCH STOCK, I HAVEN CHANGED ANYTHING, EXCEPT BRAKE PADS, AND SOON TO BE TIRES, THEYARE DRY ROTTING | | Bottom Line: | I LOVE THIS BIKE, AND I GOT IT FOR A GREAT DEAL FROM A FRIEND, WHO GO INTO ROAD RACING(WHAT'S HE THINKING?) BUT IT WORKS WEELL, THE ONLY MAIN COMPLAINT IS THOSE DAMN TIRES, THEY DRIVE ME NUTS, I DONT EXACTALLY HAVE THE BUCKS RIGHT NOW TO GO OUT AND GET NEW ONES, BUT THEEVE GOTTA BE REPLACED | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vidar
a Downhiller
from Norway
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Grefsenkleiva, Oslo | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Strong frame, geometry | | Weaknesses: | nope | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 930 and 7000, Scott Boulder | | Bike Setup: | Manitou SX, XT shifters, XT front and rear, LX cranks, Shimano spd's and Tioga factory XC | | Bottom Line: | This is the best bike you can get for about 600$, including upgrades. It handles anything from lazy Sunday riding to hardcore downhill! You can make this bike a fun trailbike or a fast cross country machine - you decide. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Cassopolis, MI
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Ft. Custer | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Excellent bike for the buck. I've hammered on it for almost 5 years now and it's begged for more. I'm suprised that there isn't more flex in the frame (22" frame size). | | Weaknesses: | Didn't come with a shock fork. | | Bike Setup: | Mavic rims, Bontrager Jones AC tires, Shimano STX rapid fire shifters and components, Vetta speedo | | Bottom Line: | A nimble bike that has taken anything the trail can throw at it. Definitely one of my better purchases. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe B
a Weekend Warrior
from TN
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Haw Ridge | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Good entry level components. Comfortable geometry. | | Weaknesses: |
WEAK FRAME. | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
std rock shok upgraded all comps to xt/xtr | | Bottom Line: | Big guys listen up! If you weigh over 200 Lbs this bike (97 Tequesta) is not for you! The 20 will flex at the rear so much under load (hill climbing) that the chain will wander across 2 or more gears. After 2 years and about 500 miles the frame fractured at the right rear above the dropout. The material is way too thin here. This was bike NOT abused but it was ridden in some challenging terrain. Cr-Mo bikes are strong but only if they are designed properly. I'm giving it 2 chili's because it was a nice ride while it lasted. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary
a Cross-Country Rider
from Rochester, MI
Date Reviewed: September 27, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Stoney Creek | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Very responsive frame, decent stock components, good geometry, reliable ride | | Weaknesses: |
Front Deraileur | | Similar Products Used: |
GT Tequesta, misc. other mtb mf;g's | | Bike Setup: |
Indy C, Shimano M515, velociraptors, Post Moderne Susp. Seapost | | Bottom Line: | Purchased this bike about 1 year ago. Have riden in both WA state and Michigan, and some MMBA races. Although not the lightest ride, it is not bad and the cromoly frame is very forgiving. The Indy C shocks, properly lubed, perform OK, but I will be upgrading to SpeedSprings very soon. The addition of the PostModerne susp.seatpost was a plus, and lots cheaper than a FS bike. After lots of miles on all kinds of terrain it still performs well. Very upgradeable. The only weakness is the front deraileur, an easy upgrade. I will probably keep this for a while and upgrade. Steel still has some advantages in feel and forgiveness over aluminum. For the money a great deal. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from chicago,il
Date Reviewed: September 9, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
paols (bullfroglake0 | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
many | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
trek 930, 8000
performance aluminum | | Bike Setup: |
very little original left.
manitou fork, white industry hubs wtb rims, kore stem, strong arm cranks, xtr shifters, xt rear, lx front, upgrade to 8 speed, tioga carbon aluminum seat post, coda bars & onza cwa bar ends, xt bb | | Bottom Line: | Great bike fun to ride easy and fun to modify, great for the price. had it 4 1/2 years and has not given me any trouble can beat it and it doesn't care. it never stops going | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben
a Cross-Country Rider
from hooksett,nh
Date Reviewed: August 23, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
strong frame | | Weaknesses: |
none yet | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
97 tequesta,indy xc | | Bottom Line: | good bike for price (got it for $450). it goes through just about all conditions and the velociraptor tires hold on all but very lose sand. added indy xc works even better | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from Gothenburg Sweden
Date Reviewed: August 18, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Yes | | Weaknesses: |
None so far
Heavy | | Similar Products Used: |
Many other this is the best for its price | | Bike Setup: |
Tequesta the last edition STX RC | | Bottom Line: | If you dont have it buy it !
You wont regrett it ! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick
a Weekend Warrior
from Thornhill Ontario
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
strong | | Weaknesses: |
a litle heavy | | Similar Products Used: |
khs | | Bike Setup: |
99 tequesta
judy c/ lx, stxrc, avid | | Bottom Line: | the bike is amazing
great components for the price
nice feel
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dhino
a Downhiller
from Bonn, Germany
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Hardcore downhill dirt tracks | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
I bought my bike way back in 1988 and it lasted 3 hardcore downhilling years...until it got stolen. But as far as I can remember...this bike is an awsome introductory bike for the begining MTB enthusiast. It gives the rider a firm grip and handle of the bike, especially if it is 1 or 2 sizes smaller then the size fitted for one's body. It has oversized fork tubes and a decent line of introductory components. Rides pretty well on the road but Rocks on the dirt road. Has reinforced head tubes by Ritchy and nice sets of rims too!.. | | Weaknesses: |
As far as i can remember, i had none. Back in the old days they didn't come with any shocks so i guess that's a draw back...otherwise a great tough bike. | | Similar Products Used: |
Haro extreme, GT Avalanche, MuddyFox, GT Zaskar. | | Bike Setup: |
I changed mine to mostly TX/DX components. Had a Manitou fork on it, Onza Porcupines front, Farmer John's Muddy Dogs on the back wheel set up. Onza barends | | Bottom Line: | This is the first bike that i have ever had and I loved it!...I rode it downhill uphill over rocks and mud, it flew over a 7 foot cliff too! It broke my stock fork and exchanged it for manitou shocks. Other wise this is a tough durable bike to own believe me! I tried everything to destroy this frame setup and the 3 years that i have ridden it, it hasn't failed me once!...Too bad it got stolen when i upgraded everything..damn that person! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Burt
a Weekend Warrior
from New Hudson, Mi.
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
dirt | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
It's 9 years old, I weigh 270, it hasn't failed yet! | | Weaknesses: |
It hasn't failed yet (giving me the only reason to replace it!)! | | Bike Setup: |
'91 Tequesta (18), old DX crank, old LX derailers, old exage Brakes (including the U-brake!), old exage hubs with old Ritchie Vantage comp rims, smoke-dart classics, 25 year old brooks leather saddle, push-push rapid fires, old control tech bar ends, scott bar and finally the second best part (the first is it's a GT), a well preserved Manitou III. | | Bottom Line: | I'm a big guy.When I bought a mountain bike in '91, I researched what was availible out there, and bought the rugged and dependable GT. I cannot kill this bike. I do not ride it on road, I do not baby it. Over the years I've done the sensible upgrades, but they've been evolutionary, rather than revolutionary. Doesn't climb very well, but go back to the size of the rider, I wouldn't climb well with electric assist! If you can still find one, buy it. Good frame, it now has ok components. Change 'em out when they need it. Ride, ride, ride!
P.S. GT, if you read this, I would be glad to donate this frame to you for research in trade for a new psyclone frame! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Ruggles
a Cross-Country Rider
from Lapeer, MI
Date Reviewed: June 17, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Stong frame, cool paint scheme, the GT name, reliability | | Weaknesses: |
very few | | Similar Products Used: |
various Schwinn models, Raleigh, Kona. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike a couple of years ago. Shortly after I bought it, my friend and I came up with the idea for the trip of a lifetime: a 1,000 mile trip through lower Michigan, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Wisconsin. This is the ultimate test of a bike's reliability and strength. Needless to say, both the bike and I survived and did quite well. I was disapointed to find that the Tequesta was discontinued from GT's 1999 product lineup. I suppose they have other bikes to take its place but it was kind of sad not to see my bike's name in the shop. If you ever come across a Tequesta and are thinking about purchasing it, take it from me. This bike has served me well for thousands of miles. It is well worth buying and riding. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver British Columbia
Date Reviewed: June 10, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Anything on Burke Mtn | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Very stiff bike for chromo, can take one hell of a beating | | Weaknesses: |
It's a bit heavy, but the strength seems to make up for it. | | Similar Products Used: |
Bravado LE | | Bike Setup: |
Manitou xvert r, full XT, riser bar, mavic d521 rear, mavic 222xc, Rokko tires(highly recommended), rock ring | | Bottom Line: | After snapping my bravado I was given this frame. The frame is a bit heavy, but it can take a severe beating. It is the perfect bike for someone who enjoys both trials, and downhill riding. I ride the bike daily, and it is still strong and plush. It has got 2 dents in it and is still plush. Therefore, if you want a descent frame that you don't want to have to be to easy on, get the tequesta. Minus a chilli for the weight | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard Eisenbraun
a Weekend Warrior
from Sherwood Park AB
Date Reviewed: May 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Anything near Canmore | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Great bike for the price
It is all around a great bike, even though experts say that the RS Indy C isnt good enough, i think they rockThis is an excellent bike for mountian bike beginners who are thinkig of really getting into the sport because it is a great deal, and it is very easy to upgrade. I am just getting into mountain biking, and i love this bike. This summer, I plan to fool around with it a bit by doing some minor adjustments and upgrades where I see fit (even though it doesnt need any upgrades, I just love playing around with the bike and i have lots of spare money on my hands). From my experience, I think that this bike is almost as good as the Avalanche LE (GT), and it is only about half the price. | | Weaknesses: |
NONE | | Similar Products Used: |
GT Avalanche LE
GT Outpost (totally upgraded)
Kona Cinder Cone
GT Timberline | | Bike Setup: |
Read others
im upgradeing from the STX, and I want some Kick-ASS Riser Bars | | Bottom Line: | GREAT BIKE
EASY AND FUN TO UPGRADE
YOU'LL LOVE IT
10 STARS OUT OF 5
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James Mattson
a Cross-Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta
Date Reviewed: May 11, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Good bike for the price! | | Weaknesses: |
None that I know of! | | Similar Products Used: |
The only other bike I tried was Trek 820, heavy as Elvis before he was abducted by Aliens. | | Bike Setup: |
Gt Tequesta, Judy XC, XT front & rear Derailer. | | Bottom Line: | It's the first bike I have owned in a long time, I may buy a new Zaskar frame by the end of next year and strip the Tequesta frame. Only time & money will tell. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: May 3, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
harris hill | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Frame, componentry, stem , brakes and everything elese!! | | Weaknesses: |
I think not! | | Similar Products Used: |
all the 99 GTs between the Rebound and the Karakoram | | Bike Setup: |
98 Tequesta, RS Indy C | | Bottom Line: | I just got the bike today. The tequesta is one sweet ass ride. i dont even think it has one weakness. here's my review:Frame: pretty stiff for chromaly and very strong. I think the seat tube is butted Reynolds but the rest (stays and all) is 4130. Nice color too!! 5 chilliesFork: Everbody says the RS indy C sucks. well, maybe it does if you are the racing type and thinks you need 8 inches of travel to enjoy a bike then yeah it does suck. But if you are a begginner like me (well sort of intermediate) then its fine. I think is a good fork.5 chillies for that!!Componentry: full stx rc. Nice. exept for the alivio front derailer it suxxxx bad ass. upgrade to stx-rc.NOW!!!!! 41/2 chillies
stem and handle bars brakes and all the other stuff: KORE LITE stem and handlebars came stoch on my GT. Avid 20s hault my ass to a stop. nice brakes, no flex. i dont know about the wheels yet cuz havent ridden long enough but i have a feeling they will hold up just fine!! saddle is NOT wtb sst 98 its a wtb sstk. still pretty nice.
5 chillies!!!!!over all rating (drumroll please) dummmmmmmmmmmmm
5 flamers. and a word of advice: take off the front reflector cuz it rattles terribly when riding on rough terrain. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: April 11, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Harris Hill | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: |
frame, components everything | | Weaknesses: |
NONE!! | | Similar Products Used: |
99 Trek 6000
99 GT Rebound
99 GT Backwoods
99 GT Karakoram | | Bottom Line: | i dont exacly own this bike.I have a 1998 GT Tequesta on layaway at my LBS. it was $700US origionally and it was marked down to 500!!! great deal. it has mostly stx-rc c0omponents and a KORE stem Mavic wheels and a WTB SST 98 saddle. the thing kicks soooooo much ass. The frame is great(full chrolmaly w/reynolds 525 tubing)and lighter than i thought and the Rock shox indy C is great. the color is really cool too. its like a dark blue. the avid brakes are great too. IT was alao such a great deal i couldnt pass it up. it is almost part for part the same as the 99 karakorum. I am so pleased and cant wait to get it.
IF u live in W ny go to Canalside bike shop
GREAT BIKE GT. why are there ONLY 5 stars?? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JACQUELINE hogan
a weekend warrior
from baltimore
Date Reviewed: February 14, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I'M A CHIC!!! purchased the sweetest peice of machinery i've ever owned for a mere 500 bucks. it was the end of the season and i ride a 14.5 inch frame. lucky me!!! saw the exact same bike for $775 a month later at some rip off shop. learning how to ride offroad and it comes so easy with my bombproof
STXRC componentry and VELOCIRAPTORS!!! i haven't had even the slightest problem with it. cool green color too. the bike just ROCKS. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Julian
a weekend warrior
from Ohio, USA
Date Reviewed: January 5, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my '97 Tequesta since July of '98, when I got it on sale. Immediately, the guys I ride with all commented on the handsome red-flame-black paint job. The components are smooth, and the overall finish is fine. I'm pretty light, so I don't expect to encounter any flex in the frame, but even so, compared to my (much longer) road-riding experience, this frame is rock solid. The WTB saddle is ideal, as someone below remarked; and the WTB Velociraptor tires constantly surprise me with their grip in difficult bits of trail.I'm so pleased, I just bought my Tequesta a Marzocchi B-2 Bomber fork, and a Postmoderne seatpost. Next I'm thinking of upgrading the stem to a removable-front design, probably in red; and hope to add a Mavic Crosslink wheelset as well -- my rear wheel has been 'saved' from potato-crisp shape a couple of times, after dramatic slo-mo endos, and I suspect that its best days are past.I have ridden a couple of other bikes (belonging to friends) since I got the GT, but I haven't found one that matched it for robust smoothness.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mikael O
a weekend warrior
from Sweden
Date Reviewed: January 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
It's a great bike! I equipped mine with RS INDY XC and that combination fits me just fine. At -8*C the fork gets a little stiff...but so what. The Tequesta is a very good allroundbike and superb for climbing (not in trees:-)). I'm about 5,84' and my tequesta is a 20 and fits me just fine as I just said. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan Quay
a weekend warrior
from London
Date Reviewed: December 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased my new 1998 Tequesta for £250 sterling. I am now one of three owners of Tequestas in our family - need more be said ! Great value - great colours - great spec.
PS for the best kept secret of all MTBs the Tequesta 18 weighs in at 12.4kgs or for our American friends 27.3lbs on the road fully equipped. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a weekend warrior
from Columbus, Ohio
Date Reviewed: October 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the Tequesta this Spring for about $375. I feel it was money well spent. I have had over a million dollar's worth of fun on the thing. It has great componentry on it and has a good combination of on road and off road manners. The only thing that the jury is still out on are the Mavic's on it. I don't think they were put together right because when the pad goes over the seam, it catches a little. Oh well, good excuse for new rims! I recommend this bike for someone just starting their mountain bike career or a seasoned verteran! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Woody
a
from EU
Date Reviewed: October 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I use the Tequesta in my work as a bike messenger. Great durability, it works for me 8 hours per day, day out, day in. Great handling in every situation. Idon't think it's possible to get a more allround bike for this kind of money.
With minor adjustment this bike should fit most riders. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Drinkall
a weekend warrior
from Ann Arbor MI
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is great. I am rambling about a bunch of stuff because I have to have 50 words or more in my review...hmm...
lets see. I like this bike, it has not broke yet. I have owned this bike for 2 years. I ride trail ALOT...
The bike gets muddy and is awesome looking.
My many years of bicycling knowledge and reviews of hundreds of bikes shows that this bike is the best ever bike ever made. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a weekend warrior
from PA
Date Reviewed: September 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I need a little help on this.. After reading all the reviews, i've noticed that all you people got your bikes for really great prices. i went to the bike store today and saw a 96 tequesta with rock shox and stx-rc. it was a great looking bike, so i put some money down on it. the problem is, this guy is asking $625 and i saw in one of these reviews that anyone that pays 600 for a 96 is dumb. i do live in a college town, and everything is expensive but even so, am i making a mistake if i buy this bike? i really like it, and it seems to be a good bike from what i hear. quick responses will be much appreciated. thanks! oh, and one more thing. if you think i am stupid to pay this much, what can i do to get this same bike for cheaper without traveling? is there some way i can say hey! these people i talked to said not to pay this much! somehow i don't think that will work... ;-) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a cross-country rider
from Nashua,NH
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had this bike for a little more than a year now and I think that it is one of the best bikes I have even seen. My godfater just went out and bought a new '98 modle GIANT aluminum mountain bike with the Grip Shift and my Tequesta is even ligher than it. And mine is crome. And the action on the single track trails is awsome. I don't even need Rock Shox with this bike. This is just a good all around bike. Some people have even offord money for my bike like 1,000$ and I won't even give it out for that much.Bottom line if you need a good, light, easy-to-use mountain bike this is the one for you. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Wilson
a cross-country rider
from Austin, Texas
Date Reviewed: August 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had this bike for over 1 yr. and have been very rude to it. It has taken all the abuse and keeps delivering a great ride. I bought it because it was the best bang for the buck on the market for a steel bike. I wasn't wrong. The WTB SST saddle is great, easy to get off the back, and I have never hooked short with it (would like to have the kevlar version, I have some corner rips from wrecks... lots of wrecks). The Velociraptor tires and Mavic 235 rims are great, lots of traction on hardpack, loose rock and bedrock and no problems with rims. V-brakes rock, don't leave home with out them. The rapid fire shifters are trick, and the RS XC fork is enough for me. Lube those shock elastomers, even if new! My fork was stiff when new, a bit of grease made a dramatic difference in plushness. The elastomers must soak up the stuff...The front derailer has been a bit problematic, but is now better once I figured out how to adjust it myself (I'm finding out LBS's are great for general maintanance, but the fine tuning is better done oneself). Still has problems under heavy load. I might upgrade it to LX soon (~$20) Rear derailer is great, smooth and quick. I've added bar ends and speedplay frog clipless pedals.You can get a better bike, but not at this price! If your going to ride hard trails, bang it around on the rocks, this bike won't let you down. Five flaming habanero's! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matthew grant
a cross-country rider
from halifax
Date Reviewed: August 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Hello, my name is matt.Im a hard rider and i havent had a problem with the tequesta. Its a very solid bike and light weight.Very good handling with rock shox 21 r {added to bike by myself} and the frame is very sturdy.If your looking for the right bike this one is pretty near perfect! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MT
a weekend warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: August 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is a super mountainbike i am an all around biker i will go all around the world biking and this bike has shown incredible dependabilityi have owned higher better bikes but to me this has shown to be the best bike with the great new rock shox xc and rapid fire shifters this bike has AWESOME potental
I have had the choice of taking my 94 cannondale with an aluminumframe and front susp. to a race i went to but decided to go with my wifes new tequesta. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a weekend warrior
from Hill AFB, Utah
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a 98' 22 incher. What a wonderful bike. I am 6'8 and pushing 285 pounds. This bike handles everything I give it and waits for more. The only complaint I have is that its saddle kills, get a bad case of numb ass for a couple days after a weekend of fun. And riding gloves are a must. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Benedict Bryant
a weekend warrior
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm Australian, twenty years old and i used to race semi-professionally. Mountainbikes in Australia are a hell of a lot more expensive than in America, and when i bought my 98 tequesta for $1225 i was'nt whingeing like you cheap individuals. I was unfit when i bought the bike as i hadnt been riding much. My custom made raceline mountainbike had just been stolen and i was planning on going on a mountainbike tour with my friend in a couple of days. When it came to the crunch of buying aluminium of chromoly i decided on chromoly for its property long term rigidity, sure you dont get that initial great stiffness of a new alliminium frame, but in a years time ..whose the best cop then...hah?!!, so i got the tequesta and i was impressed. My first days riding was 120 kms of coastal road and despite my lack of fitness i had to stop every 20 minutes and wait for my friend who would be lagging obscenely behind. For mountainbikers in the know, chromoly is the go and the partial reynolds tubing in the frame is a nice touch for a sick rider like me...
ps: replace the seat for crying out loud, i havent got an aluminium undercarriage!!!!!!11
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jono
a
from weekend warrior
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Not a bad bike for the buck. Decent components. Great geometry. Mine came equipped with the Indy XC's, which compliment the ride nicely. My LBS had it on sale for $450. This was an upgrade bike from my previous one so its hard not to appreciate the features, even though they aren't top of the line. The only complaint that I have is the STX-RC front derailleur isn't as smooth on the Gaga crankset as I think it should be. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Dywlska
a weekend warrior
from Windsor/Ont
Date Reviewed: July 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had this bike for three months now, and it has been great no failuers
of any kind yet,It rides and climbs well,And looks great too in this electric
yellow,The frame dose have some flex but I am larger than your average rider
6'5 235lbs and I ride as hard any 36 year old out there. I have put in alot
of miles on in this short time,The raptor tires have been good, the indy C
is ok,The araya rims are also still true, I put a Giani post on it for back
problems,The stx rc components are all working great.Over all a great bike
and it gets five flamers aswell as Courtesy Bicycles where thet set me up
with it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
The Flaming Viking
a cross-country rider
from Norway, Europe
Date Reviewed: July 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Tequesta for 10 months, and have only good things to say about it. For its price it preforms extremely well in the rough norwegian terrain, and you have to be a rather extreme rider to wear it out. Good value for your money, a perfect all-round bike. I'm not planning to get rid of it for a while! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a weekend warrior
from Placerville,CA
Date Reviewed: July 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I Just Picked up a 96'Tequesta for $450 with Rock Shox Q21r forks and Shimano STX all around. I've already banged up the Mavic rims, but other than that it is an awesome bike! It handles very lite and the fork is super plush, although the rebound is a little quick. To anybody looking for their first bike, this is the way to go. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike OConnell
a weekend warrior
from Falmouth, Ma
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently bought the bike. It has a Indy C Fork and Wtb Velociraptor tires. I bought it for $700. It is a good entry level bike and it has a good component mountain mix. I reccomend this bike to anyone who needs a bike for both road and off road use. Although the seat hurts your butt after awhile and the grips eat up your hands if you ride it enough, I LOVE IT!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fellow Biker
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike, like all, has it's flaws. I am happy to say this bike has served me well without any major failures. Instead of listing it's features, I will list it's flaws. The weight isn't what I wanted, and the brakes need upgrading. The tires wear down quickly on street. Otherwise this bike is excellent. Also consider the Specialized Hardrock FS. It is roughly the same price, but it has a shock with similar components. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a racer
from Alberta Canada
Date Reviewed: June 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Whats the deal with all of you picky weight people?????? you complain that the tequesta is like 2 more pounds (or whatever) heavier than your c'dale. well heres news for you buddy, you and your cannondale head shock's belong in the bargon basement of sears. you want a skimpy little aluminum frame that dents on the car rack on the way to the trails?????? steel and chromoly frames are stronger and stiffer, sure it might take a little more power to bring them up the hills but hey...if you cant pedal a few more pounds up a hill then you better hit the weights at the local Club Fat.hey, not only does the head shock look ugly... but ALL cannondale bikes have to use the ugly head, because of your HEUGE HEAD TUBE you can never trade that ugly mono-shock for a decent Rock Shox, manitou, or Bomber. NICE PLANNING CANNONDALE. GREAT BIKES GT !!!!! 5 HOT ~TAMALES~ | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cynthia
a weekend warrior
from California
Date Reviewed: June 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
In need of a little advice....I'm holding an Automic Grape 1998 Tequesta at a local bicycle shop. I've been quoted $545.00. I've done a little shopping around and have found this to be the best price in the area. Any suggestions as to if the price is a good deal or if I should continue to look elsewhere? Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for all your reviews! They were great and I can't wait to hit hills!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jordan Beaulieu
a weekend warrior
from Red Deer Alberta Canada
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Last Year I bought a Tequesta for 600$ canadian. It's how do the french say comme si comme cas. The STX cantaleiver brakes are not that great, because I am constally finding myself ajusting them and tighting them. And the derailers have been giving me some trouble. It isn't the worst bike but it is alright for its price. I like its climbing albilty, but it's frame placement for desents is weird and makes you feel like you're going flip over you're handlebars. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a weekend warrior
from massachusetts
Date Reviewed: May 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
TWO WORDS KICKS ASS!!!!!THIS BIKE IS THE BEST BIKE I EVER BOUGHT.I HAD AN GT RTS-3 BUT IT WAS TO HEAVY. I LOVE THIS BIKE AND WOULD RECOMEND IT TO ANYONE.DEFINITLY WORTH THE MONEY.IT RIDES SMOOTH,IT'S TOUGH,LIGHT,AND IT LOOKS GOOD COVERED IN MUD. OVERALL IT'S BETTER THAN ANY OTHER BIKE FOR THE MONEY. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a weekend warrior
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: May 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What's with these three complainers from the Old Dominion? I know I should post this in the Karakoram reviews, but after reading the previous posts I felt a need to answer them. First, if you paid that much for a '96, you have reason to be bitter. If you even paid that much for a '97, you still get the sucker award. Just down I-81 in Waynesboro, VA, CycleRecycle has '97 Tequestas (FS) for $499. I recently picked up a '97 Karakoram there for $599, buth that's another story.I've been a Cannondale owner for years and am very much aware of their strong and weak points. They make (or should I say made) strong, light, corrosion proof frames. However, they really beat your fillings out on anything but the smoothest pavement and Cannondale is notorious for hanging the crappiest components on their low and mid-level bikes. I looked at a '97 F700 for $699 at the LBS before I decided on the GT. It's level of componentry wasn't even as good as the Tequesta's! Much less the Karakoram.Yes, I'm still riding my rigid M-600, but I think the GT is a great bike, too. I really enjoy the steel frame and it's riding character after years of bone-jarring aluminum. If you can't make it up the hills this time of year, I'd suggest you spend some more time in the weight room and on the trainer during the winter. Like someone said to me before, why get so upset over a pound or two of extra weight on your bike when you're probably walking around with more than that hanging over your belt! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl
a weekend warrior
from Battle Creek,MI
Date Reviewed: May 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm new to mountain biking, but after a lot of research this bike was the obvious standout. I got the '97 Tequesta FS for $489 which was by far the best bang for the buck. With STX all around and the Indy XC up front I figured I couldn't go wrong. So far it's handled everything I've thrown at it very well! 5 big ones for this bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott
a weekend warrior
from toledo, oh
Date Reviewed: May 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
the three reviews following this are obviously posted by canondale sales reps distrought at the fact that people like a bike made by someone else. first of all, if someone really paid $600 for a 96 model they are dumb. i got a 97 for $550, and the 98 only retails for $589. duh. and i don't see someones desire to own a bike with a front shock that is totally against the accpeted norm. why reinvent the wheel canondale with that nasty looking headshock thing? and last, it doesn't feel the same as my aluminum bike. i thought everyone knew that cromoly and aluminum had different feels, and different characteristics. oh well, i guess commom sense is a luxury that some people can't afford. i think toys'r'us had a real nice full suspension aluminum baike on sale last week for $350.......... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Maria
a cross-country rider
from Fairfax, VA
Date Reviewed: April 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Terrible terrible bike. I had never been on a GT, and being used to an aluminum frame from cannondale, I think that this bike is the worst. The Cro-mo frame may be durable, but you have to have He-Man legs to get this thing up a hill. The components are not that great, and for the price, I would definately kick in a few more bucks for a low end aluminum c'dale. Sorry GT! | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a downhiller
from Haymarket, VA
Date Reviewed: April 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently went to a bike shop with a friend, we looked at late model bikes. My good friend decided that he couldn't get the same bike that I did, so he decided to go with the tequesta. he paid $600 for it, and for $70 more, I got an all aluminum frame in a Cannondale F700. He is now really dissappointed, and wishes he had bought the C'dale. Too bad for him! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russell
a weekend warrior
from Manassas, VA
Date Reviewed: April 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently bought a liquidation '96 tequesta. I went to the shop with a friend, and we were looking at the late-year models. The only two they had availible were the Tequesta, and a Cannondale F700. I argued with him and decided to go with the GT at $600 with the rock shox. He spent just $60 more and got the Cannondale headshok in his, plus it's an aluminum frame, and it's an overall better bike. I'm really sorry that I decided to go with the GT :( | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Bostelman
a weekend warrior
from Toledo, Ohio
Date Reviewed: April 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just picked up a new '97 for a real good price. After looking at numerous bikes in the same price range I purchased the Tequesta because of the superior components it has over the others (in the $500 - $600 range) . Definetly the best bang for the buck I found. My only complaint is the stem. I'm 6'5 and I purchased the 20 model. However the stem doesn't provide nearly enough rise to get me into a comfortable position for technical riding. I'm upgrading to a 25 degree Kore (135mm) this week. Other than that, the bike has been great. No other complaints. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a cross-country rider
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: April 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My friend was showing me his entry about his diamondback outlook out performing my GT tequesta, I laughed at him. Now way he could out perform me on the bike. The bike is lighter than his, has STX components, and is pretty much cooler than his, he even agrees with me. Tequestas rule!!!!!! I give it five flaming dead horses. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clive Jones
a weekend warrior
from South Wales UK
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Not really a Weekend Warrior - more of a playbiker!
Anyway, I have just purchased a '98 16 Tequesta FS and it is MEGA. I've just added Pace Grease to the Elastomer stack & dialled in (Out) the Spring preload and have found out what Front Suspension is all about! Riding on some technical singletrack located in my local forestry (Hopkinstown, Pontypridd), tree roots presented no problem.
The bike is reasonably light and responsive, the AVID brakes doing a good job of stopping it under all conditions. Twenty four gears mean that there is always one there for any occasion. Rapidfire Shifters have the edge over SRAM's Gripshift in my opinion. The official GT site specify Mavic X138 rims, mine are not. (Why GT?).
Overall, Five hot ones. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jed anderson
a downhiller
from reading berks england
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
XT V brakes are brilien and I dont know why people would spend loadsa money on XTR when XT work just as good.And you dont need sharp front brakes when your going down an all most verticle hill well i should say drop in.I all so like a bit of cross country but i wasnt` alowed to choos two styles of riding. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edward B.
a cross-country rider
from Berryville, VA
Date Reviewed: February 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got mine in August of '96 with the AWESOME Afterburner paintjob. GT RULES! But we already knew that, right? I have just upgraded everything on my beast except for
the stem, headset, and handlebars, which may go soon. Now I've got XTR V's and lever/shifter setup, 220 rims on XT hubs, Thompson seatpost, and a BOMBER Z2!!
The new setup on this bike rules! Though it may be a little heavy, it'll make
us stronger riders. The only complaint is that there is no rear brake hanger,
so when you put v-brakes on you will need to zip-tie a full cable from the
brake lever to the rear brake--mine work great! This bike is very responsive
and bombproof! Cro-Mo rules! Keep up the exceptional work GT! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JonS
a cross-country rider
from Texas
Date Reviewed: January 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Excellent tough bike. I have a 94 rigid-fork Tequesta and its put up with everything that I've thrown at over the last 3-4 years. I weigh about 180 but its never missed a trick.Only criticisms: shifter cables run under the BB (like most hardtail GTs) and can get gummed up in the mud. Plus I find the old-style bars are a little thin to grip comfortably, but I suspect that changed a long time ago.The 94 model had STX throughout, which always performs flawlessly. Only upgrade has been some SPDs.Next bike perhaps a Karakoram... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
GTrider
a cross-country rider
from Michigan
Date Reviewed: December 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I can't say enought about this bike. I bought the bike in 95 and it has taken everthing I have dished out. I upgraded the bike with Q21r fork with englunds, XT rear der, XT 8 speed shifters and V brakes, race face BB, spd 636 clipless, and specialized team master/control tires. Even at 29 lbs I have raced this bike in some killer UP (upper pennisula) terrain and found it to be a excellent beginner racing machine. All praise to the Team Scream machine! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BIG DAVE
a cross-country rider
from MARYLAND
Date Reviewed: November 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my GT Teq. for three yrs and have really beat the shit out of it. Although it's definitely on the heavy side, the bike is great for any beginners. At 6' 5', 240 lbs I can wear a bike out. I've replaced some components including the rear derailler and both rims but this is to be expected with the amount of miles I've logged on the MULE TOUGH & DEPENDABLE | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Brody
a cross-country rider
from Long Beach, NY
Date Reviewed: November 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a 95 Tequesta. I started Mountain biking on a Cannondale m500. I loved the Tequesta the minute I started riding it. Now that I've had it for a while I've practically changed everything except the frame and drivetrain and rims. The bike whales!!!!. I put on it, a Dean titanium stem , Manitou Mach5 w/ Englund Total Air Cartridges fork, King sealed headset, Titainium BB, 535 SPD's, Specialized Fear control (R), Team Control (F), Vetta Vandanium Tri-shock seat, Control Tech Easton Aluminum post, Titec Bars w/Control Tech ends. As you can see the bike is MODIFIED. Rims are next on the list. I'm also looking for either a GT Zaskar LE or LTS-1 as my next ride. Right now cash is low. My bike weighs in @ 26LBS. Not bad, Since the forks are heavier than the stock ones. I bought the bike for $ 650, Now I've been offered $ 1200.00 with the upgrades.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Victor Tolgyessy
a weekend warrior
from Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my Tequesta in '91 and it still has that wonderful blue base colour with white dots and black streaks randomly placed throught the frame which seems to give it a personality of its own.
After having trashed the rear deraillier hanger last winter against some unforgiving log last winter which also prezelled the rear wheel somewhat, I had to replace the drivetrain with Shimano components from the original Suntor stuff which, of course, is no longer available. Anyway, the shop was able to fix the hanger and it works like new. Good 'ol Cro-Mo! Slice it, dice it, shake it, or break it; you can always repair it. Can you do that with unobtainium or al 'u' min 'e' um?
It still rides great - even with a rigid fork. Yet what I really need is rear suspension. Perhaps a suspension seat post? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich Walter
a weekend warrior
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: October 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Like for many others, this is my first bike and it is so solid! Great component set and awesome tires (WTB Velociraptors on my '97). Highly recommended for entry level riders. Plan to upgrade the fork to Judy XC's, otherwise keeping it stock. After almost 2 months, not a problem yet with anything. I'm sold on GT, next bike will be a Zaskar.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel Orille
a weekend warrior
from Auburn, AL USA
Date Reviewed: October 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my first mountain bike. I love it. I was considering a Mongoose or a Schwinn, but after riding a friend's Pantera I fell in love with GT. The Tequesta rocks. Its quick, responsive and everything I needed as a newbie to MTB. The new chameleon paint job kicks butt too. If you are looking into getting your first MTB look no further. BUY a Tequesta! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Al Costello
a cross-country rider
from Colorado Sprins, CO
Date Reviewed: September 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My first mountain bike. Bought it in Summer of 95 and proceeded to bash the hell out of this bike. With some of the country's greatest trails so close, I quickly fell in love with my bike and what it could do. No problems EVER. STZ components worked flawlessly, and still do. Upgraded with clipless pedals and a Judy XC. Recently bought a Zaskar, since the Tequesta had sold me on GT products. Only drawback is the cable routing--when it get gunked up under the bottom bracket, shifting can become difficult. This only happens in sloppy conditions, though. GT rules. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a weekend warrior
from State College PA
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Got my '97 Tequesta FS about a month ago, have about 100 miles on it and its great. The Indy XC is great for the price and the LX v-brakes are great. I added a pair of Scott twin cam clipless pedels. It's an excellent climber and downhiller.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a racer
from Zimbabwe, Africa
Date Reviewed: August 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I rate the GT Tequesta very highly having just taken it on a ride some of the toughest country in Zimbabwe. 500km over 4 days to raise money for a charity event. The rapid fire shifters worked really well and meant that I did not have to fiddle around whilst shooting downhill. I had no mechanical problems at all. The one thing that I will be changing is getting an adjustable stem height as my back took flack. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a cross-country rider
from South Australia, Australia
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 94 Tequesta and it's been bloody excelent. It's done about 7000kms with only one service. The LX components seem to be more robust and stay in tune better than the newer stuff on my Avanti Agressor. Although it's a little bit weighty,but I don't think I've riden much better in a cross country bike!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Barry A. Scott
a weekend warrior
from Connecticut
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a Tequesta FS and have ridden it a few times on some easy to moderate trails. I am a newcomer to mountain biking. I come from having ridden only on the road for the past five years on a Marinoni Special. I think this bike is an excellent value for the money, having a lot of goodies that are only available on bikes costing much more. It is very comfortable and responsive. The LX V-brakes are superb, the IndyXC fork is real nice(for me) and the WTB is very, very comfortable. The steel frame, while not being the lightest in the world, has just the amount of flex that I like. A great bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
K. Williams
a weekend warrior
from Wappingers Falls, NY, USA
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned mine for three years (this being the third) and I have beat the hell out of it consistantly! Aside for some adjustments, it has been a true mountain bike. I continue to be one of the few hard frame riders left- shocks are a luxury. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a
from weekend warrior
Date Reviewed: May 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just got my bike, a 97 tequesta and I am very impressed. at this
stage I have only had about 4 hours of riding but I love the bike. If you
came from a bike that was a bit flexy you may be as surprised as I was with
the stiffeness, it's bone jarring stuff! I can't understand the review below
that criticises the bike as 'too flexy on the uphills', no way!
I fitted Marzocchi Bomber Z3 forks (which I was lucky enough to win) and love
the combo. Components are great, with LX v brakes and STX or STX-RC all over.
A nice bike at budget level!5 chillies for value for money and great fun! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter Holst
a downhiller
from Denmark
Date Reviewed: April 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The frame is great on downhills but too flexy on uphills. The bearings suck! During two years of hammering I have trashed both hubs, the headset and the freewheel twice. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mad Dog
a racer
from NC
Date Reviewed: April 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great Bike.... Love the new colors... Keep on making'm, but should get a rock shock judy dh.... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Jones
a racer
from Virginia
Date Reviewed: April 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
So far so good, I am having a litlle cognotive dissonance though. I believe the rims are out of true... Although it seems to be the best components set up for the money, definetly recommend the 97 version STX-RC... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tequesta man
a weekend warrior
from Da united states
Date Reviewed: March 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had this bike for a year and ahlf and i have totally trashed it put it back to together and rode it again. Very good on uphill stuff. When te cain and stuff get dirty it really stinks(REALLY REALLY BAD) other thatn that this bike kicks some major butt!!!! Also new wheels and a suspensoin fork are necisary for takin this thing through PHAT stuff!!!! 5 STAR!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
r6i
a weekend warrior
from ri
Date Reviewed: March 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
6r7ir67i | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Carruth
a cross-country rider
from Norman Oklahoma
Date Reviewed: March 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 1995 model and it is awesome .I have ridden it on everything from the
fire roads of Red River New Mexico to the technical trails of Slatyfork West
Virginia (wich both kick booty)and it has held up great. I have a 1995 Manitou
EFC on it.I am saving for a new frame but you can be sure that I will be riding
the Tequesta for a long time even after I get my new frame.I will have 2 bikes. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matthew Widdop
a downhiller
from England
Date Reviewed: February 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Tequesta a few years ago and it's still in working condition. It is a superb machine and I think GT should put some Judy's on it because it can be a bit rigid on the hard ground. A full STX group set compliments it nicely and I hpoe GT continue making this beauty better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Annette Kvandahl Johansen
a cross-country rider
from Norway
Date Reviewed: February 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Singletrek TREK 930 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
richard schiffman
a cross-country rider
from Marin County California
Date Reviewed: January 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My 1st Bike. Upgraded from shifters to LX, and put VP clipless pedals on it. Added a Judy XC front shock soon thereafter. Have been riding it a great deal for over a year, and am very pleased with how it is holding up. Bike handles very well (once I got rid of the Tiogy Psycho K tires that came with it). Components get very sluggish when dirty. Good value for the $. | | Overall Rating: |
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