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Submitted by
Mr Les Wolgamuth
a Weekend Warrior
from York, PA . USA
Date Reviewed: September 30, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | york county trails/rail trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$175.00 | | Purchased At: | consignment shop | | Strengths: | I have been riding this bike for 10 years now and still going strong.Needed to weld the front fork tube due to a little to much mountain riding down hill and hit a boulder and go head over hill. No wonder it broke, and yes it hurt! Other than that,2 tubes and 2 tires 4 sets of brakes.1 chain. best 150.00 I ever spent and it is a sx just tune ups every year and cleaning of the bearings and chain, still have the original cables.Original Mongoose Rocks, Murry bought them out. So hang on to your Goose's You cannot buy them no more! | | Weaknesses: | None with mine.Wish it would have a rear shock,but o well cannot have everythig | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | after the mountain accident I gave that up and use it on trails. Original sx with Quadra 21R Rock shock,original STX rc derailer and front and rear brake system Shimano Altos SLR BR CT90-M and accesories for riding | | Bottom Line: | I have allways been hard on bikes, and with this one you push it to far it will break. But now with moderate to light extreme riding when needed it is the best bike that I have had. Now with the arrival of disc brakes makes my eyes wonder, But they will figure a way to convert the old brake sytems to the new ones. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
César Villa
a Cross Country Rider
from Chihuahua, Chih, México
Date Reviewed: November 1, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | fast singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | a friend | | Strengths: | -Look
-Durability
-Light suspension fork
-Geometry | | Weaknesses: | -Shimano Acera, Altus
-Simple fork
-Tha paint scratches very easyli | | Similar Products Used: | xc bikes borrowed from mates | | Bike Setup: | Changed Bontrager saddle, xt brakes and brk/shift levers, 0ª stem, Ritchey pedals everything else is stock. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike when I was getting "serious" into racing. Well, the bike had a killer look and was in range for a 16 yr old kid. At first rides, i thought it would be nice to change some (almost every) components, but as in relationships you fall in love with every part of the significant one, so years go by and when you look back you have spent 9 years racing, commuting, adventuring, training -with the bike obviously-.
Right now the parts that would be nice to replace, are needed to replace. And the curve $/benefit has no nice "slop" anymore. I hope I can find a nice shelter for her to stay her final years.
Was the best bike to start (and stay) with. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
peter mitchell
a Weekend Warrior
from geelong vic. Aust
Date Reviewed: December 13, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | life | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | a mate | | Strengths: | strong reliable | | Weaknesses: | fiddly cleaning spots | | Similar Products Used: | many | | Bike Setup: | urban transport | | Bottom Line: | my most consistant favourite bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zak Winter
a Weekend Warrior
from Virginia Beach
Date Reviewed: October 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Rockbridge | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Strengths: | Frame is quite tasty, Lovely bike to build on, a true "beater," This bike can take the worst you can dish out. | | Weaknesses: | Components are hoopty.........Acera/Atlus | | Similar Products Used: | TREK 4900/Cannondale F800/Fisher Tassajara/Marin Bear Valley | | Bike Setup: | Rock Shock Judy, Bontrager, WTB Saddle, Shimano Acera Drive Train | | Bottom Line: | The Alta is sturdy bike it can take the worst the East Coast "Technicals" can dish out on it. The frame is straight up money, it is hearty and provides a very stout ride. Upgrade a few components and you have yourself a very capable hardtail. This bike is a lot of fun for someone looking for a backup or just wants a bike they can abuse and keep their premier ride for special occasions. Tough Tough Tough; well worth a couple hundred bones if you don't mind upgrading the bootleg Shimano Acera components. A very fun bike especially on technical terrain and downhills | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami, FL
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Markham, Oleta | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Mt. Bachelor Bike - Bend, OR | | Strengths: | -durabiility
-strength
-solid feel
-multi-purpose
-light
-comfortable | | Weaknesses: | -clearcoat scratches | | Bike Setup: | -Easton carbon MonkeyLite riser CT2 handlebar
-Shimano Deore XT Vee brakes
-Manitou '00 SXR front fork
-Chris King NoThreadSet
-Kore Lite 3 stem
-Oury Grips
-Icon clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | This bike has lasted me for over 5 years of hard XC riding from the long Oregon epic rides to the super-technical singletracks of Florida! Granted I have upgraded a few things, this bike has never failed me ... I can only say great things about her. This bike has taken a beating, and has the scars to prove it - but never stopped pedaling. I am writing this review for the Alta SX to give her the credit she deserves, as I will be building a Sugar 1 this week to take her place in the lineup. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Cadiz, Kentucky, United States
Date Reviewed: April 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | North/South Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$30.00 | | Purchased At: | A Friend | | Strengths: | I bought the frame, bars and shifters off a friend tight for cash at 30 bucks. the frame is extra stout and i am racing XC with it this season | | Weaknesses: | The Clearcoat... | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Rincon, Wal-Mart Specials, | | Bike Setup: | Mozo ML-30 fork, XT Front and Rear Derailleurs, suspension seat post, Specialized Headset, Zoom stem, Specialized flames saddle, the works! | | Bottom Line: | If you are a Weekend Warrior, Commuter, Light Freerider, or an all out XC racer, this bike can be set up any way you want it to be. My frame is 4-5 years old, ive been riding it for a few months, and i know im going to be riding it for a long time to come. DEFINATELY WORTH YOUR MONEY. No Nonsense, Just a sweet ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave hindley
a Racer
from billings mt usa
Date Reviewed: January 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | street | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | a place | | Strengths: | well this is the first bike I had for a year and I havent snapped te frame yet every other brand I have especally dimondback. | | Similar Products Used: | shwinn powerglide, dimondback, harro, specialized fat boy | | Bike Setup: | mongoose hoop d gt handle bars gt forks front and rear canalever breaks sx 3pc crank gyro2 gt mag rims front and rear pegs | | Bottom Line: | Ive had a lot of fun with this bike it is the only bike to hold up to what I do on and of road. On road I grind jump bunnyhop over benches, garbage cans and fire hydrents. When I am offroad my friends built about 20 jumps and none of them are smaller then 5feet high and there workin on one now that is about 9-10 feet and a 45 foot ga. I know that I will hit it fiest because I am the only one that is crazy enough to without seein if it is even possible but most of the time it is. this mongoose is the best and strongest bike I have ever owned. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Johnson
a Cross Country Rider
from Sheffield
Date Reviewed: July 11, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Moss Valley | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | I have owned my Alta for nearly three years and hav't found one fault yet, the frame is superb, it rides well, it is comfortable and very light | | Similar Products Used: | GT LTS 2000 | | Bike Setup: | I have upgraded it and now have, RST Mozo Pro front sus, | | Bottom Line: | I love my Alta, I have owned quite a few bikes but have been very impressed with this one, it rides very well, is very light and the colour makes it look a million dollars. I have recently upgraded mine, I wouldn't have done this unless I thought it was worth it, and that frame is. I have owned it for nearly three years, I ride it regulary, well not at the moment cos i have a broken arm. But I ride daily in some local woods, and the bike is all I need, it hadnles brilliantly, the light frames has made it good for climbs and trials and good quality components keep the maintenance to a minium
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a Downhiller
from Calgary
Date Reviewed: November 12, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Alpine Mist | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Good solid feel, holds tight. | | Weaknesses: |
Clearcoat damaged easily. | | Similar Products Used: |
Raliegh Tarantula TX
Gary Fischer Joshua FX | | Bike Setup: |
Mongoose Alta SX High polish clearcoat finish, Rock Shox Judy SL, Hanz / Franz Front and rear downhill tires. | | Bottom Line: | I have owned my Alta SX for about a year now and I tell you, I've never had a bike that holds those sharp corners like this one. Its light frame and comfortable design make this a real masterpiece. I usually get a new bike every 6 months, but this one is a real keeper and sure to be in the fleet for time to come. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris kerry
a Weekend Warrior
from nottingham
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
a fast and fun bike that can be used for trails | | Weaknesses: |
how the paintwork can be damaged so easily | | Similar Products Used: |
mongoose supergoose bmx | | Bike Setup: |
answer manitou x-vert triple clamps (orange) | | Bottom Line: | mongoose bikes are ultimatley the best in mountain bikes | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Martin
a weekend warrior
from Hyannis, MA
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Alta SX from a friend for $250. The bike is in very good condition and was hadrly ever used off road. The components are OK except for the Acera canti brakes which I had to upgrade to DiaComp 937 Vbrakes, I got them for $25 the complete set including levers and cables from supergo.com. The difference is amazing, it's like night and day. The aluminium frame is definitely the best part of the package, it's very rigid and light and the weldings are very nice. Just the frame is worth the $250 I paid for the bike. Overall, I love my Mongoose and for the money I wouldn't be able to get better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mrty Melton
a racer
from Ca
Date Reviewed: February 3, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
i love my Mongoose because i can go on just about anthing mud, dirt, blacktop, jumps it is good on jumps it lands so smooth. it gos so fast and front and back pegs its so cool i love it its GREAT!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patricia
a weekend warrior
from vt
Date Reviewed: December 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I take my bike on old logging roads and it always surprizes me were it can go. I makes a good transition from muddy trails to paved roads. I love my mongoose alta SX!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Keamy
a weekend warrior
from Andover, MA
Date Reviewed: October 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I can't believe that I bought this bike for $225. used. I feel like I got the deal of a lifetime. The only person cheaper than me is my brother, and even he likes it. It is very light and gives a more than average comfortable ride. It is perfect for around the town or light trail riding. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Parson
a weekend warrior
from Niceville Florida
Date Reviewed: August 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is such a fun bike.I picked this bike for $100 off the price because it was a '97 bike and Ive had a blast with it.If I could give it a gazillion stars I would ,but I am only limited to 5.This is a great bike to start out with!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Love
a cross-country rider
from Orange County, CA
Date Reviewed: August 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
98 Mongoose surge, upgraded comps, shock. A GREAT starter bike. Wanted to get into the sport with God, Wife, Surf, Bike.........things I love | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shua
a weekend warrior
from nj
Date Reviewed: August 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Got this bike after riding Stumpjumpers for 14 years (an '83 and a '90). The quality doesn't compare to the Specialized, but it was a lot cheaper. The frame is great, sturdy and light. The components suck. If you can afford it, get a Stumpjumper. If you can't, this is a decent compromise. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a racer
from mtb city
Date Reviewed: June 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the Mongoose Tetra SX, and I love it! I hate all these butt-holes who get on here and trash Mongoose just because its Mongoose. They make some kick butt bikes. The Tetra is about 26.5 lbs Indy C's STX/Alivio comps,and a 6061 alu frame. It feels really great! it is light for a 500 $ bike and climbs like a cat. It is extremely stiff, and climbing, it seems to add traction on technical climbs that my friends on multi million dollar bikes can't even get halfway up. That has to do with the riders, too heh heh. It is a bit twitchy on sketchy dh, but that is because of the short chainstays. Oh and all of Gary Fisher's hype about Genesis Geometry — its bull! My tetra has almost the same dimensions as a large 98 fisher, but a SHORTER STEM! A killer upgrade candidate. I am going to get xtr bontager wheels, time pedals XTR vees and a mix of XT and XTR parts maybe some ESP 9.0 and hopefully a shock upgrade. The only things that I would replace is with are a Klein or a Litespeed, because the Tetra is such a great bargain. Too bad 'Goose dropped its 97 bikes, although it may be the same, just with a letter and digit name now. Buy it if you are a canny buyer. Oh yeah and I raced on it - 5th out of 65 18 and unders beat all but 18 year olds! Yeah baby! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Keith
a weekend warrior
from Winnipeg, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Mongoose ALta kicks ass. It is decevingly light and there has never been problems with the componentry. This bike hasn't failed me once It performs extremely well on tight single track and long uphill climbs. So for all you people who are saying false sh_t about it, you should get off your asses and try riding it before you start dissing it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Niran
a
from Chicago, Illinois
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I would like to start riding, particularly mountain biking. I was wondering whether the Mongoose Alta SX is worth the investment. I checked one out this weekend and it seemed to ride pretty well. It had an aluminum frame with a grip shift. I personally favor the rapid fire shift myself. Any input good or bad is very much welcomed. Thanks in advance for the input. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Burke
a weekend warrior
from MN, USA
Date Reviewed: May 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
`98 Surge: Affordable / Great fit...(which is what I was sold on) Upgraded Pedals to Performance Topo DH clipless. The Weinmann rims have a bad rep but so far so good. The surge could lose a few, but the smooth ride makes up for it. I'm riding Minnesota Valley Adventure singletrack, rated as
intermediate/expert level by Twin Cities Bicycling Club. Surge holds its own, even with mean Stumpjumpers not too far behind. In all, a great bike to get started on. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Duncan
a weekend warrior
from Largo
Date Reviewed: April 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I love the bike. A friend sold the frame to me and I put it together
from parts I was able to get. Its an outstanding bike and very strong.
I've riden the bike in mud, sand, and rain and it keeps coming back
for more. I personally wouldn't ride any other type of hard tail. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris silva
a weekend warrior
from EASTON, MA
Date Reviewed: April 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I RIDE A 1996 MONGOOSE ALTA, AND IT KICKS ASS. I BOUGHT MY BIKE FOR $200.00
IN 1997 AS A STOCK BIKE WITH A ROCK SHOCK INDY C. I TOOK THE ROCK SHOCK OFF AND WENT WITH A MANITOU SX SHOCK. I STRIPPED THE BIKE OFF MOST OF THE STOCK COMPONENTS AND UPGRADED ALMOST EVERYTHING, INCLUDING LX V-BRAKES, 600 GRIP-
SHIFTS, SRAM 7.0 BRAKE HANDLES, XT DERAILIERS, CODA DOWNHILL BARS, CODA SEAT,
TRICOR SEATPOST, YETI GRIPS, VELOCIRAPTOR TIRES, AND A FEW OTHER THINGS.
I'VE GOT ABOUT $600.00 IN TO IT AND IT RIDES LIKE A $2000.00 BIKE. MONGOOSE MAKES A VERY GOOD BIKE, AND RECOMMEND IT TO EVERYONE THAT DON'T HAVE ALOT OF MONEY TO SPEND ON A BIKE. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
moriarty
a weekend warrior
from georgia
Date Reviewed: April 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Good entry level bike, however everything except the frame needs replacing once you get into the sport, so spend the money up front ya cheapskate!
Buzzman...you've got me rolling on the floor dude. You think maybe somebody went biking sans helmet when they kissed that rock! Oh yea, hats off to our educational facilities in this country...those tax dollars are really paying off!... NOTTTTTT!!!!!! | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tight pipe man
a weekend warrior
from usa
Date Reviewed: March 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
yeah, my Mongoose Alta is cool...seeing the only remaining stock part is the frame! After spending $800 on upgrades,and doing away with the stock boat anchor gearing, Gripshit,cantilever crap I've got a total investment of $1300! for an LX equipped, front shock bike!..spend the frigging money up front and save!...
the tight pipe man says...buy cheap, get cheap! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
greg may
a weekend warrior
from Richmond, Va
Date Reviewed: March 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
all you who say that mongoose sucks are idiots that need to get a life. I am talking from years of experience and know facts so stop giving mongoose a hard time I would like to know what all you people who say that mongoose suck what you ride odds are you pedal a huffy | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed Buchan
a weekend warrior
from apex, north carolina
Date Reviewed: March 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my 96 goose for $370 at the beginning of 97. First off, my dealer upgraded a lot of the components (like Sugino crank, Deore brakes-although still not good) But, I found the stock tires suck in pretty much everything and the GripShift 400 is crap and the brakes sucked until I put on Ritchey pads. I went through a rear cassette, BB, 2 chains, front chainrings, rear wheel (tacoed), & a seat in no time. Now, with the Ritchey pads the thing stops in a real freakin hurry-but V-brakes are still on the way and I also got a Panaracer Smoke rear tire which makes the bike climb like a demon. Also got a Judy XC shock which has been great and upgraded rear cassette & chainrings but the STX derailure still is mediocre at best. Needs rapid fire shifters, V-brakes, & clipless pedals (and maybe a XT derailure) and the bike will be perfect. By the way, unless you can afford real high grade aluminum cassettes & chainrings (e.g. White Bros.) go with steel even though it is heavier, it will last a hell of lot longer than the cheap (albeit lighter) low grade aluminum stuff. For $370, the bike is a great deal considering it has an outstanding frame, but like any bike under $500, it needs significant upgrades as the rider's skill increases. When I am done upgrading (if there is such a thing) I'll probably have spent close to $1,000. But for a beginner, who doesn't want to drop $1,000 on their first bike-instead choosing to get a good frame and try the sport out for a while and make modest investments as needed, the goose rules! Also in my last race, the bike performed great (until the brakes got wet), but I can't say the same for more cardio-vascular system....(ps:No one in their right mind should pay $700 for this bike with stock components) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mellow
a weekend warrior
from maryland
Date Reviewed: March 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
mongoose is the wack-ass bike I seen in my life. So throw that shit away and bring back the Haro and Gt Performer back so the real headz and roll in pack!!And I like to give a shout out to my ROC family. Beyace (word to ya mother) shitty ass mongoose, I mean it for real that is the wackass bike that always have a flat.... | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lawz
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: January 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I would say I bought the Mongoose Surge DX 4.1 without knowing anything about it. I paid S$500 for it and its ride extremely smooth. It comes with mostly mongoose's own parts, STX rear derailer, Alivio front derailer, killer Rapid Fire shifters, only things are the rest of the parts are not so good. But the ride is extremely smooth. I added a front fork from an old TREK 9500, it rides like a killer. Go Mongoose | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C. Gantt
a cross-country rider
from U.S.of A.
Date Reviewed: December 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The frame is a good stiff aluminum frame. Everything else sucks. My bike came equipped with bottom of the line Alivio componets, the very inexpensive RockShox Q21R, and Mongoose brand seat,post,and handlebar. If you like to upgrade componets then this is your kind of bike. I love my frame but save yor money and buy abike spec'd out a whole lot better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
FEMALE TRAIL RIDER
a weekend warrior
from WEST VIRGINIA
Date Reviewed: November 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Mongoose Alta SX - I'am 5'-4 130# The Bike Fits Great,Handles Well,And Looks Great...Love It. Everything You Could Want For The Price. A Well Made Good Looking Bike.Durable And Stable...Can't Go Wrong With This Bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vikram Arora
a weekend warrior
from Blacksburg, VA
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great bike for tough trails. I've modified it with an INDY XC shock, STX-RC deraileurs and cranks, and V-brakes. The C(a)2 frame is great under extreme pressure and horrible tracks but i wouldn't recommend doing the stuff i do with the original factory installed ALTA SX. With factory parts, it holds its ground on not-so-crazy trails. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vince
a weekend warrior
from Largo, FL
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
If your looking for a rugged hardtail at a good price I found this one hard to beat. It's made of a special aluminum composite and is very stiff, lite enough for ammature racing, and handles great. I've gone through a lot of rough areas that I'm sure I would have wiped in on my cromo bike. After seeing some of my friends waste money on bikes that don't perform any better than my Mongoose, I give this one high marks. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
T. Robertson
a weekend warrior
from Norfolk, VA
Date Reviewed: June 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Update; I'm still very happy with my Alta (not the SX). I had a problem with the stem nut striping, but my dealer took care of it. Since then I've had no problems. I mostly ride in the city, but have done some trail ridding. I have found the limits on my Conti. Town and Country tires. not good for climbing. I love the Goose. How about some updates guys? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christian Jørgensen
a downhiller
from Denmark
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I must say that I´m a bit impressed that this bike is still running when you consider the rather cheap and heavy drivetrain and hub section. It actually lasted more than one nukehead hammering down the Tremalzo downhill. One more thing. DON´T strain the factory fork too extreme ´cause it´ll kill it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric Hove
a weekend warrior
from Mankato, Minnesota
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Writing this after buying my SX last weekend..... woo woo
I really dig it, it has been a while since I rode, (used to have a
trek 8500 Al, got ripped off...lock em' up folks!)
I think this bike is pretty slick for the 450 I paid for it,
got the quadra 21r's with it and been pedalin' ever since.
I am thinking upgrade on the drive train after a season, but other than that
I love it.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a cross-country rider
from York, PA
Date Reviewed: March 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a '96 Alta SX, aluminum, Q21R shock. At first, I loved it.
It was my first real bike and it blew away the old Schwinn I was riding.
The frame is light, stiff and durable and the Q21R soaked up all the bumps.
The more I rode, though, the more frustrated I became with the inferior
components. Not even a full summer of riding and the STX rear deraileur
was shot. Never liked the tires, they sucked rain or shine. The Alivio
brakes inspired no confidence. No complaints about the GripShift 400's,
though. My biggest problem is that I think the $700 I paid for this bike
was WAY too much! It's stocked mostly with Alivio components (except the
STX deraileur) or stock Mongoose parts. Most other bike company's offerings
at this price at least started with full STX drivetrains. The frame and
the fork are fine, but I feel like I'd have to sink another $400 into
this bike to get it where I want it. Should have just spent the $1100
right from the start and gotten something better.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
T. Robertson
a weekend warrior
from Norfolk, Virginia
Date Reviewed: March 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just picked up a Alta SX. I love the frame, and plan on upgrading the brackes to XT vbrakes. Pedals need to be changed before your first ride they are the cheapest I ever seen. The brakes work fine if adjusted right. Installed a XT rear derailler love it, shifts light years better then the one that comes on the bike. Installed Conti Town and Country tires. these tire are great for city and any off road that I have yet done. Love these tire's. I think this is a great starter bike for people new to mountain biking. I paid 400.00 for mine, its a 1997 model. If you can find one the 1996 model comes better eguipped. LOVE THE GOOSE! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mark
a weekend warrior
from South Africa
Date Reviewed: March 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My question is is the mongoose iboc comp a good bike to do road cycling or is it
better to get the mongoose iboc . | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rudy Hernandez
a weekend warrior
from Mcallen T.x
Date Reviewed: February 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I wanted to look at the new madelsof the mongoose freestyle bikes like the 97 villan and manace. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jackson locken
a racer
from winnipeg,manitoba
Date Reviewed: February 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a mongoose alta with Q10 rock shox , stx hubs , chro-moly frame . I have one question whats th differnts of my bike and the alta sx | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jackson locken
a racer
from winnipeg,manitoba
Date Reviewed: February 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a mongoose alta with Q10 rock shox , stx hubs , chro-moly frame . I have one question whats th differnts of my bike and the alta sx | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
amy
a cross-country rider
from El Dorado, KS
Date Reviewed: January 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my alta since 93. It's excellent and has held up to tons of falls. I'm a heavy rider and have abused it well. Have had to upgrade everything but it's well worth it. Though if I were to continue racing, I'd want shocks and better componetry than what I have. I love it and will ride it till the Goose don't fly no more. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dallas
a weekend warrior
from Australia
Date Reviewed: January 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased a Mongoose Alta SX with Rock Shox Quadra 5's.
The thing that really made me look at the bike was the cool polished Alumimiun frame. The Bike handles really well and is stable in the air. The Rock Shox give a very stable feel over rough terain.
The brakes have a really strong feel to them even under hard braking.
Overall this is a really cool bike with very cool looks. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carlos F. Pardo
a racer
from Bogota, Colombia, S. America
Date Reviewed: January 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Cool bike, cool colors , nice handling because of its short top tube,
and a fair price. Also, I think it's light. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Duma
a weekend warrior
from New England
Date Reviewed: January 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just recently picked up a polished aluminum Alta SX with a Quad 21r front shock and I am really happy with it so far. I was initially drawn to it because of its looks, and for the money you can't beat it with a rubber chicken! It is a super-sturdy looking frame with better than average components. This is the kind of frame you can build around. I recommend upgrading the tires and pedals right away. If you are an average rider looking to step up to the next level, then this bike is worth looking into. I plan on upgrading components to this excellent frame and riding my goose for years to come. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edward Carter
a weekend warrior
from Orlando, FL USA
Date Reviewed: January 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Alta SX. Great intermediate/weekend bike for a great price. ($540 Bikes USA) It was such a good deal for Shimano Alevio & Front Rock Shoks ... I bought one for my son as well. Fast, rugged, stable. I probably upgrade the brake pads soon. Great looking silver/grey finish. It still looks great after doing those 'high speed soil samples'. My son and I say TWO THUMBS UP! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Stone
a cross-country rider
from Lanoka Harbor, NJ USA
Date Reviewed: December 22, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Mongoose Alta, it is a great bike it weighs 27.1 pounds. It is very fast
but it is also good for off road trips. I payed only $459 for it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam Mollet
a weekend warrior
from blue springs, MO
Date Reviewed: December 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
My Alta SX is my first 'real' bike. Being my first bike, it has endured a lot of punishment and held up very well. The Alta is very responsive and durable. I do recommend upgrading the brake pads (I went with Richey) and the tires. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Wilson
a downhiller
from Brisbane, Australia
Date Reviewed: December 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I think that this bike is one of the best deals around. Optioned up, it can become one of the meanest bikes around. I layed this bike down over 100 times and still it refuses to break. THIS IS ONE HELL OF A BIKE!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Martin Korzonek
a cross-country rider
from Wroclaw, POLAND
Date Reviewed: December 16, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is very good, and not expensive.
It is light (ALU), but the breaks are only shimano altus !
It is my third (3) mountain bikes
And at the end it looks very nice be happy ! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a weekend warrior
from Honolulu, HI
Date Reviewed: December 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought a 1996 Alta SX with Q21 fork for $520 as my first mountain bike. I've since learned much about mountain biking, and have come to realize why Mongoose makes excellent frames:1) Best designed replaceable rear dropout (not too wimpy or off-the-wall)2) Beefy rear brake clevis, not plastic, and pivots on stud mounted to frame3) Upper and lower ventilation/drain holes already drilled into bottom bracket shell; the lower hole comes with a plastic plug (can be tapped for a bolt when servicing BB)4) Beefy chainstays, seat post clamp, and bottom bracket shell5) Dense, ovalized Al tubing is not too bulky6) Lifetime warrantee on frameMy Alta SX is very stiff and carves single track well. Bike easy to handle: had no trouble learning how to do bunny hops, endos, 90 degree pivots, and wheelies. Maybe it's the small frame, but the bike rides very smooth and steering is precise. Altus brakes are terrible though, quick fix is to use Richey or Kool Eagle II pads (I'm upgrading to XTR Vs).If you're like me and waiting for the dust to settle with FS, the Alta SX is an excellent entry-level bike, or hardtail to upgrade. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis Vidler
a cross-country rider
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 19, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
After a good solid 3 months of constant punishment over spine cracking single tracking in the Canadian Rockies I would have to say that this bike is awesome.
It's so good that I'm going to spend mega bucks to send it home and perform further life threatening tests on the streets of Sydney.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
erik voldengen
a cross-country rider
from portland, Oregon
Date Reviewed: November 19, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding my Alta for 4 years now. It stood up to a lot of harsh
riding. I put on some Quadra 21R's and it rode quite nice. Just recently
the frame broke, and I'm awaiting the Mongoose rep's word on the frame replacement. In all, most components held up great. I have not had to replace any of the drivetrain (except the chain of course). Oh, actually I destroyed the bottom
bracket, but that's the only componentry that croaked.The bike's quite durable and won't let you down. It is a wee bit heavy, though.
This makes the cyclocross races a little more ... challanging. Perhaps the later
models are lighter. 27lbs is pretty good considering what a rugged steel frame
you're getting. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darin Pearce
a weekend warrior
from Toronto, Ontario
Date Reviewed: November 3, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Alta last May and have hammered it all summer. No problems at
all. Definetly a bike to keep and upgrade as needed. Great value! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KEVIN MORAN
a weekend warrior
from USA
Date Reviewed: October 30, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I JUST BOUGHT AN ALTA SX ABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO . I AM VERY HAPPY WITH MY
PURCHASE THIS BIKE IS AWESOME . | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenneth Brink
a weekend warrior
from Kansas City,Missouri
Date Reviewed: October 10, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a ALTA SX a couple of weeks ago and i love it so far
its also a very sharpe looking bike | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Braun
a weekend warrior
from Janesville, Wisconsin, USA
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike a little over a month ago and I love it. For its price it is an excellent value. The C[a]2 (aluminum metal matrix) frame has teardrop shaped down- and top tubes, and rectangular chain and seat stays, so it is stiff and extremely efficent. The Rock Shox Quardra 21R is a great performer, although a tad flexy. The Shimano Alivio/STX components are ok, i had the front derailer break on me, but i don't know if it is a problem with all of the alivio front derailers. The Altus breaks are weak and heavy, and are going to be one of the first things i upgrade. The rest of the components are Mongoose brand components and work great. Overall, the excellent shock and frame make it an excellent platform for upgrades.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a racer
from Chicago, IL
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my Alta (not sx) three months ago and raced with it for the first
time. On a slick, steep, single track, mud hole, it performed pretty
reasonably. Tires need to be upgraded, they plugged immediately with mud
and never shed it. The frame felt great even with the all the punishment
it felt pretty rigid, though I am a light rider (160lbs). I will replace
the rigid fork with suspension but it feels nice and stiff with good
handling. The saddle is a bit uncomfortable. The components (all STX)
are a good value for the price, but need to be upgraded if you plan
to do any serious riding. They are a bit heavy, but when many other
light weight components on other more expensive bikes were hanging useless
my STX components were still shifting and breaking adequetly even after
several crashes (most of which were due to the lack of grip with the
tires). For a $450 you get a lot of bike! A good frame to build upon. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brandon Cariveau
a racer
from Oceanside, Cali
Date Reviewed: July 4, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
OK! Come on folks. Talk about a frame to build on! Check it... Got the Alta about three months ago...and now its nothing but upgrade upgrade. Its not that the components are bad; its a great mid-range bike, but for racing, nope! So thats why I tossed on some upper end components, X-rays, and a Pro-Forx. But even when I did the first race on it before the upgrades, it was great. I had no problems with the shifting or getting the speed cranking. So, there is my two bits...anyway....love the Goose...ride it hard! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don
a cross-country rider
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Alta on sale for $390 about nine months ago. I bought it with the intention of getting an entry-level MB that was fairly competent on singletrack. With a nice Tange DB cromoly frame and a good mix of STX and Alivio parts, the Alta has proven to be an excellent value. The frame is compliant and responsive at the same time and the geometry allows for good handling on tight singletrack. The finish on the frame could have been better, as the faux ti paint/decals scratch easily. The drivetrain consists of heavy, but reliable STX crank, derailleurs. Front end shifting can be a lot quicker and that is no doubt due to the Alivio Rapidfire shifters. The brakes are horrific (Alivio canti's). In anything but warm, dry conditions, they are useless. It might be due to frame flex though. The same Alivio cantilevers work great on my friend's stiffer Cannondale frame. Mongoose saddle equally bad...wide enough to seat two. I swapped it for a Vetta Trishock. Another up!
grade you might consider are the tires which are pretty poor in muddy conditions. Overall though, it is an excellent value, dollar for dollar. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan Dorn:
a cross-country rider
from Boise, ID
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The saga goes on... Today (day 2) I tested five bikes in the $450-$650 range.
Same strenuous conditions as yesterday- short cliffs, gravel, sand, steep climbs.
Results:
Note: This is the low-end Alta, which retails for $450, not the more
expensive SX.
This was the least expensive bike in the range I tried today, so I expected
to be riding stuff significantly inferior to the Fisher mamba/aquila/KaiTai
Cannondale M400, and Bianchi Osprey. I was actually quite surprised and
impressed.
The first thing I noticed was some of the best components on any of the bikes
I'd ridden today- a full STX drive train and derailleurs, very surprising
given the sticker price. The stability in lateral handling was excellent
for a bike in this price class, I was quite impressed. One thing did
feel a little bit strange, however- I couldn't pull up very well. Literally,
I couldn't lift the front wheel more than three or four inches, which made
climbing embankments and small boulders difficult.
That one thing aside, though, I was quite impressed with the handling,
comfort of ride, and quality of components in a $450 bike. 4 stars. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JEFF VENGLASS
a downhiller
from rancho cucmaonga CAL.
Date Reviewed: June 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I THINK THIS IS A VERY NICE RIDING BIKE.
IT'S GOOD FOR ANY RIDING THE PARTS THAT COME ON THE BIKE ARE O.K.
BUT IF YOU GET THIS BIKE AND GET MORE INTO IT YOU CAN AND BETTER PARTS.
IT'S A NICE FRAME. | | Overall Rating: |
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