Runs on needle roller bearing, at the pivot that connects the linkage to the frame.
Kit is supplied with a new 8mm bolt and a set of bushes to fit your lower shock eye.
Fully cnc machined from a single billet of 6000 series alloy, and anodised black or silver as standard colours
Works with the standard shock, Fox, Manitou, Rock Shox, Stratos and other popular shocks. The spring rate may require adjusting to suit you riding style and type of use this Linkage is complemented with our needle roller bearing kits. The bearing kits are available for the 97 to 99 bikes.
Submitted by
mburgess_nz
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: March 23, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
Excellent suspension component. Beautifully machined and fits in as a perfect replacement.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2004 Specialised Expert FSR
Bottom Line:
I waited a few weeks for delivery of this part as BETD were out of stock. Well worth waiting for. Completely changed the ride of my bike. The bike is riding the best it ever has with this part on. My stock suspension link was welded out of alignment from the factory (something I did not realise until I attempted to change the bearings myself) so I decided to replace with the BETD link on reading the previous reviews. One area I have noticed a considerable improvement in is climbing. Previous hills I could not ride up with the stock link on are now possible to ride from bottom to top. The bike feels very stable when climbing. Overall the suspension feels very solid and I feel much more confident when attempting technical sections of trails. Excellent value product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terry
a Weekend Warrior
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: September 7, 2006
adds a bit of weight. 240 gm compared to 100 on original link
Similar Products Used:
nil
Bike Setup:
99 FSR comp. Rockshox 318 Tora air shock, XT gear, Alex rims etc.
Bottom Line:
Set on 6 inch travel. Using a 950lb spring on original RS Coupe shock. This thing really adds to the old bike. Balances out the 5.1 inch front nicely (even a bit much) & adds BB height. What I noticed is less bob. there was very little with that spring, but now less. Only reason I can guess is that it makes the seat stay closer to 90 degrees. As the resultant force along the seat stay from pedalling is the pedal force X the Cosine of the chain stay/seat stay angle and as the cosine approaches zero as it gets to 90 degrees, this must reduce the induced forces on the shock. At any event there is none on road or trail and the added traction climbing rough stuff is really noticeable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: August 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
excellent quality, increases travel and bottom bracket height
Weaknesses:
increases leverage ratio on shock, if you are a heavy rider, consider changing to a coil spring shock or incrasing the shock lenth by .5 inch and travel by .25 inch - this will accomplish the same thing
Bike Setup:
2002 Stumpy FSR w/ 120mm fork
Bottom Line:
You should also increase the front fork travel to keep the geometry and steering feel balanced
I ended up going from a 6 x 1.25 air shock to a 6.5 x 1.5 coil spring shock. I am much happier. The air shock had to be run at such high pressure that the rebound dampening could not control the return and the rear end would 'kick'.
I am still using the BETD link in the shortest travel setting and getting 120mm of travel.
NOTE - I am a 225lb rider
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver, CO, USA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Walker Ranch outside of Boulder
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$209.00
Purchased At:
BETD website
Strengths:
Not sure.
Weaknesses:
Let me explain....
Similar Products Used:
Original Factory Linkage
Bike Setup:
2004 Specialized FSR-XC in the USA (yes there is a difference).
Bottom Line:
BETD – absolutely screwed me out of money… to the tune of over $300.00 USD.
I ride a 2004 Specialized FSR-XC that I wanted to increase the travel on using a BETD linkage. All of the reviews here on mtbr.com say how helpful and responsive BETD is. I have a story contrary to that notion.
Because BETD’s website shows somewhat conflicting information regarding my specific bike I emailed them to ask specifically which linkage to purchase. It took BETD three days to respond to my request for clarification. Someone there named Dan emailed me back and explained that indeed I needed to purchase the ’04-’05 linkage for my bike. Great I thought, and placed the order. If you are not aware, all BETD products are sold at a cost in British pounds and then converted to US dollars based on the current exchange rate. It cost 115 British pounds (including 15 pounds for shipping to the USA), or $209.00 US dollars for the new BETD suspension linkage. Not cheap. I waited with great anticipation as the new linkage flew over the pond. When it arrived the shipping cost stamped on the package was actually 8 British Pounds, not the 15 that they charged my credit card, and after inspection of the link itself it was obvious to me that it was the wrong link!!! The linkage they sent me could never fit my bike. The linkage I really should have purchased is the 01’-03’ linkage because in Great Britain Specialized discontinued the FSR-XC frame ’04 type one year earlier than in the US.
My 2004 US frame is actually their 2003 frame!!!
Besides being disappointed I could not upgrade my bike I was upset that it was BETD who advised me to purchase the wrong product. Incurring long distance phone charges I called their shop and explained. They didn’t seem too interested in the details and simply told me to ship the product back to them for a refund. I then paid $33.00 US dollars to send this hunk of metal back to Great Britain. After a few days my UPS tracking number search showed that the package had been denied acceptance by BETD…. Why? WTF was going on I thought. Well, it’s because the Great Britain wanted to charge me sales tax on a product entering their country. I tried to explain this to BETD over email and they have ignored me completely. I’ve tried to explain the situation to UPS shipping that this is a return item and should not be subject to any sales tax however they say there is nothing they can do to change the minds of the import authorities in Great Britain. So in order for me to get the linkage back to BETD I now have to pay sales tax on a product that I already paid for. The duties are estimated at an additional $70.00 USD. Consequently BETD has not refunded me the $209.00 dollars for the linkage because UPS won’t deliver it to them and has it held in a warehouse somewhere. As it stands I’m out $312.00 dollars and I have nothing to show for it but headache.
What a mess. BETD has been absolutely non-responsive regarding this issue and in my opinion has stolen my money.
Be warned… BETD is a horrible company to try and purchase products from overseas.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan C
a Downhiller
from Tacoma, Wa Date Reviewed: March 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
SeaTac Freeride Area (Flow)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
used from another rider
Strengths:
This is for the Enduro model. Well made and burly! Easier to put on than stock link. Ultra plush feel from stock shock. Just add about 20lbs more and your goog to go.
Weaknesses:
Nothing other than a few more ounces (cry you weight weenies) and of course the price.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing like it.
Bike Setup:
03 Specialized Enduro Pro frame, 05 Marzocchi Z3(150mm)with 20mm axle, Fox RL w/Itch switch, wheels and stuff.
Bottom Line:
Expensive but well worth it if you need more and smoother travel out of your 02-04 Enduro frame. I'm using the 6 in. travel setting and it simply make the bike a very capable freeside/all mountain bike. 4 flames only because off the $$$. Now go ride your butts off!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
HOFFMAN 223
a Weekend Warrior
from coral gables, fl Date Reviewed: April 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
amelia earhart
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
BETD online shop
Strengths:
Incredible machine work, very solid, no weak spots or thinly machined areas, perfect fit to frame and seat stays, beautifully anodized (gold), bearing kit fits perfectly, and shock eye bushes are the nicest I've ever seen. Adjustable from 4 to 5 to 6 inches of rear travel and buttery smooth operation. Incredible quality, can't stress this enough!!!
Weaknesses:
None except for the depreciation of the U.S. dollar compared to the British pound. It was a little expensive, but regardless, more than worth it
Similar Products Used:
Just the stock linkage that gave 4"s of travel.
Bike Setup:
99' FSR, RaceFace cranks, Avid discs, XT ders., Manitou Shermans, Rhyno-lite XL wheels, atomlab stem, protaper bars, dk iron-cross pedals, FUNN saddle, FSA Pig pro headset.....you get the idea, extra burly.
Bottom Line:
What more can I say that I didn't mention up top? I ordered the linkage along with the seatstay bearing kit and the "A" link kit, which is for the "horst link". The whole package ran about $300 US, but was more than worth it, my six year old frame rides like a brand new bike, and that is no exaggeration. The bearings fit perfectly, and stiffened up the rear end considerably, the old pivot bushings were shot and I was getting some side to side play. As far as the linkage goes, I usually run it in the 5" setting, but it feels like 6"s compared to the old linkage and the stiction I was getting in the pivots. It raised my bottom bracket a bit so that helps with ground clearance, and it certainly helped to balance out the travel with my Manitou Sherman. Bottom line is this...would I do it again? In a heartbeat. Was it worth the money? Yes, and possibly more $$$ considering it completely changed the whole ride and feel of my bike. Would I reccomend it to other FSR owners? Absolutely, if you love your FSR like I love mine, then this is the perfect upgrade. Not only does it bring the bike up to the level of all of the "newest and hottest" suspension designs out there, but it also helps to extend the life of the frame simply by replacing an underbuilt, worn out linkage with a super functional piece of art. Lastly, the customer service at BETD is the best of any company that I have ever dealt with. They respond to any e-mails immediately, will work with you over the phone, (I had to call for some tech support), ship faster from England than most US companies ship within the US, and will make sure your order is exactly what you wanted. I only have supreme praise for both the company and their product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dwayne
a Weekend Warrior
from rochester, MI Date Reviewed: February 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
the one that leads to my girls house
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
BETD online shop
Strengths:
build quality, appearance, adjustability, customer service
Weaknesses:
??????????
Similar Products Used:
stock link
Bike Setup:
99 FSR-XC, the link, Fox TALAS RLC, Avid juicy 7 brakes, Raceface Dues crankset, SRAM XO rr der and shifters, hugi hubs wrapped in 717 hoops, easton carbon bars and post
Bottom Line:
this thing is like a piece of art. the extra ground clearence allows me to run 180 mm cranks, between the fork and the link, i haven't got the tuning sorted out yet, but first impressions are favorable. like others, i was contemplating buying a new frame, no need to now. you can't touch the performance that this link with a longer travel fork provides for twice the money. so with the money your gonna spend on a new bike, get the link and an adjustable fork, pimp out your ride a little, and still have dough left over. Bob is the real deal, as mentioned several times before. 10 stanley steamers
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Scottsdale Date Reviewed: August 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Trail 100
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$170.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
easy to install, good manufacturing quality and aesthetics raises bottom bracket height (soemthing stumpjumpers need), adjustable travel and bottom bracket height
Weaknesses:
should have come with all 4 pivot bearings. If you are goin gto take the link off you might as well replace all the bearings. One of the bearings I took out to put on the betd link was trashed. If you are at or above the bike's max weight limit (215lbs), the link puts too much leverage on the shock to run it in the 120mm setting. Actually it should only be run in the A or B setting.
Similar Products Used:
stock link
Bike Setup:
2001 Stumpjumper pro w/ Roxkshock Duke 100mm
Bottom Line:
A decent improvement for the price. Adds much needed bottombracket height. Adds some travel or lots of travel if you are a light rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Scottsdale Date Reviewed: August 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Trail 100
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$170.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
easy to install, good manufacturing quality and aesthetics raises bottom bracket height (soemthing stumpjumpers need), adjustable travel and bottom bracket height
Weaknesses:
should have come with all 4 pivot bearings. If you are goin gto take the link off you might as well replace all the bearings. One of the bearings I took out to put on the betd link was trashed. If you are at or above the bike's max weight limit (215lbs), the link puts too much leverage on the shock to run it in the 120mm setting. Actually it should only be run in the A or B setting.
Similar Products Used:
stock link
Bike Setup:
2001 Stumpjumper pro w/ Roxkshock Duke 100mm
Bottom Line:
A decent improvement for the price. Adds much needed bottombracket height. Adds some travel or lots of travel if you are a light rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Miller
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, ID, USA Date Reviewed: August 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
three bears
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
BETD online
Strengths:
Looks great, designed well
Weaknesses:
extra weight (minimal)
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Stock 99 Specialized stumpjumper fsr xc pro, mostly xt and xtr. Only upgrade is rear Fox float rl shock
Bottom Line:
Was ready to trade in the 5 year old bike, but ordered the betd linkage and bearing kit to try. They were out of stock but made some for me six weeks later. Totally changed my bike from an outdated nice ride to one that competes with any of my buddies $4,0000 rides. I could not believe how the suspension changed my bike into one plush, road eating machine. Specialized never offered this upgrade as they knew you would never trade in your bike. Fairly easy to install, but hard for me to fine tune. Once I got it right...unbelievable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Prop's
a Weekend Warrior
from Nantes, France Date Reviewed: May 25, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
betd online shop
Strengths:
The high quality needle bearings.
Weaknesses:
The poor quality of the provided screw and bolt. Some play in the lower shock ring.
Bike Setup:
S Works M4 FSR 1999, Fox Float RC rear shock, Marzo MX, XT/XTR, 517 ceramic / DT240 hubs
Bottom Line:
This kit is great, but just be very carefull with your rear shock. As you may have read on the other reviews, air pressure has to be increased to compensate the gain of plushness and travel. I usally ride with the lowest travel position (90mm). I wanted to use the intermediate travel position (110mm), and after a 3h epic ride, the oil seal of my rear shock litteraly exploded !
Actually I recommend to use the 110mm travel only with a new or recently revised shock, and avoid using the 130 mm travel with an air shock.
Excepted that point, there is nothing to say about this product... Once it is set up on your bike (can be a bit long, especially with the lower bearing kits), just forget it and ride. It only needs to be greased once a year for an optimal rolling.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan dougovito
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver,CO Date Reviewed: May 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
dakota ridge, apex
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
www.betd.co.uk
Strengths:
works exactly as described and gives you a much better bike. gives great BB clearance and plush travel
Weaknesses:
have to increase the pressure or the air shock considerably. not really a weakness tho.
Similar Products Used:
stock link
Bike Setup:
2002 stumpy pro, fox float in the rear @ 120mm, psylo in the front at 125mm.
Bottom Line:
probably no difference in performance if you don't ride technical, rocky trails. if you do, you'll climb better and have a much more stable ride on the downhills. I had it in my hand 7 days after betd shipped it. very fast for a good product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anand Mehta
a Cross Country Rider
from Lansdale, PA ,USA Date Reviewed: April 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$260.00
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
The ride
Weaknesses:
The Cost and the leverage ratio
Similar Products Used:
Stock
Bike Setup:
1998 FSR with BETD link and bearings, XT drivetrain with Grip Shift. Mavic 517 with XT hubs. 2004 Black Super up front and a Fox 6.75 x 1.75 Vanilla R in the back.
Bottom Line:
Well, it has been close to a year and I can now say the link is worth it. The ride has only gotten better with the addition of the Fox Vanilla R. With the 1.75 stroke unit, I get either 4.6, 5.8 or a whopping 7 inches of travel from the shock. This is both theoretical travel based upon shock stroke and leverage ratio and actual travel based upon removing the spring and seeing how much wheel travel exist. It is everything that is claimed. With a 120 mm travel shock up front, the bike has a nice smooth ride to say the least. I am 200 lbs and use a 900 lbs spring in the 4.6 inch setting. Although the bike originally claimed 4.3 inches of travel, the travel with the BETD link is much, much better. The BETD link is a dramatic improvement in all settings. With the full bearing kit and the lively shock, climbing is a bit of a chore but I am hoping PUSH industries can help with that. Overall, I am happy with the link and bearings from BETD. As stated by most people here, they are a friendly bunch at BETD and are always wiling to help. Would I do it again? Yes. Would I recommend it to a friend? Yes, without a doubt. The cost issues are still a bit hard to swallow but the ride (and time) make up for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred Randle
a Weekend Warrior
from Ceres Date Reviewed: March 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Red Hills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Betd online
Bottom Line:
This a six month follow up to my earlier review. STILL LOVIN' IT. I added an '03 Psylo in Dec. and the bike (and rider) have taken on a whole new attitude. My confidence level just keeps growing. We are taken 2ft drops in the trails and having a terrific time. I know 2ft isn't much for you youngsters but for this 51yr old kid, it looks like 2 stories. The part is holding up flawlessly. I really appreciate the flexabilityof switching from a freeride bike to a XC bike in just minutes. I still feel it's overpriced but I would still pay for it again. If your thinking of an enduro style bike, you want to go this route instead.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred Randle
a Weekend Warrior
from Ceres Ca USA Date Reviewed: March 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Red Hills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
BETD online
Bottom Line:
This a six month follow up to my earlier review. STILL LOVIN' IT. I added an '03 Psylo in Dec. and the bike (and rider) have taken on a whole new attitude. My confidence level just keeps growing. We are taken 2ft drops in the trails and having a terrific time. I know 2ft isn't much for you youngsters but for this 51yr old kid, it looks like 2 stories. The part is holding up flawlessly. I really appreciate the flexabilityof switching from a freeride bike to a XC bike in just minutes. I still feel it's overpriced but I would still pay for it again. If your thinking of an enduro style bike, you want to go this route instead.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mark ehrenborg
a Cross Country Rider
from santa barbara, ca usa Date Reviewed: October 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
romero canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$170.00
Purchased At:
BETD online
Strengths:
Very well made, easy to install. Awesome.
Weaknesses:
Seem a bit pricey at first (until you hit the trails), and some instructions would have been nice, but nothing else so far.
Similar Products Used:
The stock suspension link
Bike Setup:
2001 FSR XC, Rock Shock Psylos SLs, all else stock
Bottom Line:
This is the'01/'02 BETD link. I purchased this suspension link mostly based on the positive reviews that proceed mine. I can say that, as most have already said, it rocks! It took two times out to get the pressure in my shock close, and what a change!!! Very plush, but still pedals really well on the climbs. I'm running 280# in the shock for my 200# load, didn't bottom in the rock gardens, and it is really smooth on the small fast double track stuff. Between the link and the forks it's a whole new bike. I would highly recomend this to anyone who's got a FSR.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred Randle
a Cross Country Rider
from Ceres, CA USA Date Reviewed: September 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the one I'm on
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
BETD on line
Strengths:
well designed, quality machine work and finish
Weaknesses:
cost seems high but cheaper than new bike. In my case, the bolts in the dropout bearings had to be wrapped with thin shim stock to remove excess play. Kit should include new bushings/bearings for upper shock eye.
Bike Setup:
2000 FSR XC Pro, XT,XTR SID, Mavic 517 or Rhynolites depending on terrain w/WTB Mutanoraptors 2.4
Bottom Line:
When it came time to replace rear bushings I opted to go to an aftermarket rear link and bearing kit. One of my trail buddiies has been running the Mountain Speed rear link for over a year with no complaints. I wanted flexibility in travel and BB height so I went with BETD. So far I'm very gald I did. I'm a 200# semi-agressive trail rider who's getting more comfortable pounding through Nor-Cal rock gardens. This link made a huge difference in bike stability. The current setup is in the short travel setting as to not upset the geomettry. As soon as I decide which 5" fork to run, it will be fun experimenting with travel and ride height to suit my weight and riding style.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Niklas Spitczok von Brisinski
a Cross Country Rider
from Munich, Germany Date Reviewed: August 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Fimberpaß
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$115.00
Purchased At:
Directly from BETD
Strengths:
THIS THING ROCKS!!! I replaced the lame SID XC fork that my Stumpjumper originally came with in 2000. The once 80mm travel have been reduced to about 60, and despite a paid service during winter the fork did not work at all. After the last transalp I had to decide: The new Enduro with way more travel, or upgrading my beloved Stumpjumper. It was just one view into the Specialized price list when I decided NOT to buy the new Enduro... I got one of the last Psylo SL with cantilever sockets and mounted it to my bike. I felt like riding a shopper: The front rose up to the sky, the rear seemed to hang somewhere far down behind me. Now I had enough travel, but the bike was hard to ride. I few months ago I changed the bearings and bushes in the rear to the sealed berings from MacBike (Swiss). On the search for replacements of the original Specialized bearings I stumbled across BETD, but decided not to buy the thing because it would wreck my geometry. Now with the new fork I read mtbr and decided that I need to have it. Yesterday was test-drive at Munich's Isar trails. Far from being world-class trails they nevertheless allow to ride with very high speed through bumpy but not too difficult trails. This thing really rocks! Compared to my former rides I rode with very high speed, smashed through curves and took downhills with no fear. How will it be once I got used to it? That thing will frighten my freinds :-) The setup requires some time, as the Fox Float RC needed about 2,5 times as much pressure as it needed before!
Weaknesses:
Not recommended with less than 100mm front fork travel. I use it in combination with the MacBike (Swiss) sealed bearing set, which had a very effective bearing construction for the bottom part of the Fox Float. This construction is replaced by a cheap plastic bushing that comes with the BETD set. You are required to use the BETD one, because it is designed to work with the BETD link. It might also be that the much higher pressure in the Fox Float might cause trouble. I will see... The screw for fixing the damper into the link looks very cheap, the whole thing flexes a bit and it weighs at least two times as much as the original (but who cares?). Rather expensive, but cheaper than getting a new bike. Poor instructions for fixing the thing, don't do it if you have no experience in handling the required tools.
Similar Products Used:
none - I considered the one from Shock Therapy, but it doesn't allow as much flexibility as the BETD one.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR XC Pro 2000, SID XC replaced by Psylo SL, Ritchey WCS Rizer Bar, Shimano 959 pedals, Continental tires, Fox Float RC, MacBike sealed bearings for the rear damper, and new BETD Link
Bottom Line:
Get it if you have enough travel at your front. Works very well with the Psylo SL. Very good email service from Bob from BETD, reliable delivery.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Walt
a Cross Country Rider
from Vermont, usa Date Reviewed: June 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
resevoir
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Nicely machined; good response from BETD before the item was shipped.
Weaknesses:
XC version: doesn't do much practical good. Very little extra travel or much steeper head angle (73deg). To be fair, the bottom bracket height is raised at the steeper head angle, but the handling then becomes too quick for cross country riding.
Similar Products Used:
Standard links that came with the 5 FSR bikes I've owned.
Bike Setup:
2001 S Works FSR, Hayes hydro
Bottom Line:
BETD also sent me a needle bearing kit, the wrong one. There are no instructions of any kind with the link or the needle bearing kit. I struggled for a long time trying to figure out how the (incorrect) needle bearing kit is supposed to fit on my bike. BETD finally answered just one of my several emails, just to tell me that the needle bearing kit was the wrong one. Don't waste your money on the XC version of this link.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Simon Davis
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: May 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
rowdyflat
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
BETD online
Strengths:
adjustable, fits well,strong, very plush suspension and higher bottom bracket with a long travel adjustable front fork like a psylo
Weaknesses:
difficult to use in maximum travel position without a new shock and the spring rate of the shock is tricky to estimate
Similar Products Used:
none except original
Bike Setup:
00/01 stumpjumper FSR w. psylo fork w. U turn
Bottom Line:
excellent every one should buy one
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Mason
a Weekend Warrior
from Winnipeg, Mb, Canada Date Reviewed: May 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything down
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$241.00
Purchased At:
BetD online
Strengths:
Easy to install, looks great, Quality workmanship, Best Custumer service in the world
Weaknesses:
None what so ever, Well my rear der. is hitting the chainstays more because I drop everything insight and in between the drops I am launching off any little bump I can find. You may call it a weakness I call it a streangth.
Similar Products Used:
Stock link
Bike Setup:
99 FSR, Jr T fork Mavic D521 Front rim, Xt Front disc brake and hub, Crow Bar handle bar, Intense lockon grips, Avid speed dial rear brake lever, Tioga Multi Control II seat, BetD Link, stock Rock Shox, Rhyno Lite rear rim, Stock rear huband brakes, Maxxis Highroller 2.5 front tire, Maxxis Mofo DH 2.35 rear
Bottom Line:
I just got my link today and put it on right away. This thing rocks. I have only taken a quick test ride on it to set the preload, but that test ride turned into a 3 hour drop session. I just couldn't belive how a piece of Al could improve the action of the rear of the bike. I decided to give the link a maiden flight on a small 3 foot drop to a fairly flat landing. This small drop would bottom out the old set up harshly because of the flat landing, as a test I purposely landed it straight legged to test the suspension fully. The grass landing was wet and I landed leaning to one side a bit. I have seen others land this drop in dry conditions in the same manner and get slammed hard. With the link the suspension sucked up the bad landing and keep me on the bike. After hittin a few other drops I hit the biggest drop I have done yet a 6+ footer to nice tranny. I nailed it, even though the shock bottomed lightly, it was still like floating on a cloud. The bottoming was due to a soft spring (750lbs) and not to the link. I may put the link into the 6" mode for the ride to work just to see how much more of a spring I will need to get, I am guessing that I should be running around a 800-850 in the 5" mode, and a 900-1000 in the 6" mode. Iwill say though that in the 5" setting with the 750 spring sidewalk cracks are not felt at all, I hear them but don't feel them, and thats with my tires at 55 psi. I can't wait till next month when I get my Risse Jupiter 5R. I am giving the link a 5 in value because although it was expensive to get it was worth every penny and cheaper then buying a new bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anand Mehta
a Cross Country Rider
from Lansdale, Pa Date Reviewed: May 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Fair Hill, Wissahickon, Coyd Brennin (Wales)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$260.00
Purchased At:
BETD.co.uk
Strengths:
Ride. That is what it is all about.
Weaknesses:
Cost. The whole thing cost me close to $300 (with full bearing kit). BETD are really nice but they charge alot. They don't exclude VAT but claim to use that to defray oversea's shiping. However, they charge 35 pounds ($50) to ship a package that the shipping label says cost 9 pounds or $15. Oh well.
Similar Products Used:
Just the stock set-up
Bike Setup:
1998 FSR, Stratos Helix Shock with 700 lbs Spring and 200 LBS air, Mavic 217 wheels, Grip shift shifters, 8 speed rear, XT hollow tech-cranks, Panaracer fire pro tires, X-lite 24 inch bar with specialized bar ends, LX V-brakes.
Bottom Line:
Several suprising things so far. The first, the ride in the 5 inch position did not blow me away as being the most plush. I thought I would be blown away but rather the effect is that it is just more of a refined ride. Much smoother all around. Small bumps What has shocked me the most is that my climbing has improved greatly. This bike climbs like mad. The change in linkage changed the head angle just enough to make th bike a great climber. In addtion, the bearing kit and linkage did not change the bike weight to much. I am now at ~29 lbs - which I can live with as I weight 200 lbs.
Overall, the this is a much nicer bike. Is it worth it. I want to say yes as I like my bike and see no reason to dump it. However, only time will tell.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: March 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD.com
Strengths:
FSRXC -01/02 - Increases travel, well made, easy to adjust, cheaper than a new bike. Easy to install.
Weaknesses:
quarter pound heavier than stock linkage, but the added travel is worth the weight penalty. Increased shock pressure required.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2002 Stumpjumper FSRXC, Fox Talas RLC Fork, King Headset, S-works wheelset, XTR/Race Face Drivetrain
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 01/02 FSRXC linkage. I was looking for a light weight longer travel bike than my 2002 Stumpjumper FSR Pro and the BETD linkage was the perfect solution. It was much cheaper than a new bike and works as advertised. The linkage makes the frame feel out of balance with an 80mm fork but works very well with a 100-125mm fork. I tend to ride the linkage in the 117mm postions with the TALAS fork set at 112mm. I was able to build a sub 26lb 4.5-5 inch travel bike as a result of the BETD linkage. You do have to run higher air pressue in the shock which could be a problem for heavier riders. (I weight 165 with gear and run 210-220 Psi versus 155psi with the stock linkage). The bike with linkage is very plush with out a huge increase in pedal bob. Bottom line - this is a great upgrade for any FSRXC owner looking for added travel from their current frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego Date Reviewed: March 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
BETD ONLINE
Strengths:
Bombproof, super-plush travel. Moto look (I got the gold finish which matches my Psylo sliders).
This product will give you a new bike. I went from a nice, smooth XC bike, to a super plush freeride machine. I never bothered with the 4 inch setting. I went straight to 6 inches. PLUSH! but the bike still does not bob very much. At the 6 in setting, the bottom bracket was raised about two inches. It is high to swing your leg over, but I never hit a pedal in the rock gardens. It still tracks like a trail. I did have to get a higher rate sping, but I'm heavy (180lbs with gear). I'm now trying the 5 inch setting to better match the 5 up front. Still feels plush (not super PLUSH, but plush). The head angel is more relaxed at 5in. I'll let you know if it is better. Get this if you have en Enduro. It transforms the bike into what it should have been all along. $130 is cheap for this kind of quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Plexus
a Downhiller
from Odense, Denmark Date Reviewed: December 10, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
added travel, stiffer rear end. with the needlebearings supplied by BEDT - virtually no stiction. it comletely changes the ride to the better.
Weaknesses:
only one: you have to get a new spring for your shock, if you are running a shorttravel shock. this is due to the added momentum of the link.
Similar Products Used:
the stock link, with the crappy nylon bushings.
Bike Setup:
98' FSR elite with shimano xt disc 6"rear 8"front. RF cranks vertical ProTection tires, SRAM 9.0 gears and a Marzocchi Z1 Drop Off 2003 fork.
Bottom Line:
I'm a freerider, and this is one of the best investments i've don to my bike. it has eliminated the stiction and added 2 hole inch' to the travel. if you have an FSR, do you self a favor and by this kit - a bought the needlebearing kit as well, and it was worht every penny!!! BUY IT :-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sylvestre Fink
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: November 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Gatineau, Kanata, Chelsea
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Bike Setup:
2001 Special-ed Enduro, Hayes, 4" Marzocchi Air
Bottom Line:
This is more of a question really. I'm interested in the link but I'm worried it will change the angles of the bike too much. I like the bottom bracket where it is, not too low, just enough to keep the pedals from smashing into things but keeping the centre of gravity nice and low. I also wouldn't want to steep a headset angle, I do lots of aggressive trail riding and don't want to be over the bars too much, yet don't want to lose that good riding position for the occasional pure x-c riding (and one 24hour race a year I do).
Can anyone tell me what happened to their geometry and handling when they put it on a 2000 or 2001 Enduro?
Many thanks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Taylor
a
from Golden, Co Date Reviewed: November 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
What ever I'm riding
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
betd
Strengths:
Beefy, well designed, very well engineered. Specialized should seriously use BETD as a accessory outfitter.
Weaknesses:
none.
Similar Products Used:
MRP X-rated FSR link for 9 months now.
Bike Setup:
2000 S-works FSR, Psylo Race (125mm) in front, BETD link in rear (130mm). Trans-am saddle, riser bars. 2.3 conti vertical pro's. still, right at 26lbs.
Bottom Line:
This shock upgrade is awesome. Get it. If you feel like your getting beat up in the back end and wonder why, then you need this part. I won't go into the details, but read other reviews below.
I'm a front range rider. This means that in the Denver, Colorado area, I go uphill for the first half, and then downhill the second. Very few 'cross-country' rides. You need something light for the uphill, and something with some suspension for the downhill.
I wanted a 5 inch travel ride for cross country / front range riding. All of my options left me with a 30 lb bike. I don't want to freeride, necessarily, but want something that will track well, and take the bumps better. This product did it.
I feel tons safer on rockier sections. The bike tracks better downhill. The part fixed my 5 inch front shock geometry issue for climbing. I climb better, descend faster, and have a larger smile on my face than ever before.
GET IT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian (in London)
a Weekend Warrior
from London Date Reviewed: November 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
BETD Direct (BETD.co.uk)
Strengths:
let me think.....the fact that you get six travel options out of an FSR!!
Weaknesses:
The bolt for the shock eye could be as neat as the rest of the link
Similar Products Used:
there aren't any, the MSP kit only gives two options and is rediculously expensive
Bike Setup:
FSR XC 2000 frame, BETD link and Horst Link bearing upgrades, Fox Vanilla 125 forks, XT, discs, nice bits and bobs
Bottom Line:
Well, the FSR (all years) is one of the best all round designs available, but is highly limited in the 75 or 90 mm settings that Spech gave us. The Enduro frame was better, but heavier and more relaxed geometry, different ride really. The FSR XC with the BETD link allowed me to run the following geometry: 1. 125mm front and 130mm back with 70/73 angles, and a 13" BB height (unweighted), 12.6" BB sat on bike. 2. 100mm front and 110mm back with 70.5/73.5 with 12.75" BB (12.2" weighted).
You can also steepen the angles if you like, or to accomodate the different stack heights on different forks, or to adjust the BB height. Mine is the Fox front fork, which is slightly lower stack height than some other 125mm forks, so my angles are perfect in the "slack" angle setting (i.e. with the link facing upwards), but if you run another fork, you have the six options to chose from.
I use the bike, 90% of the time in the full 125/130mm setting, using all five inches front and year all of the time. However I only weigh 138lbs, so I am not heacy on my kit even though I ride hard. If you were a 160-180lbs rider, I would worry that the bike is really too light and weak to be running as a five inch travel freeride bike, mine is more like a razor sharp XC bike for light guys with tonnes of travel that allows you to ride way outside of the bike's original intentions. I love it to bits. I think that in the 100mm/110mm setting, that is perfect for XC/trail riding for most people, but 125/130mm is just fantastic if you can get away with it. Mine is now almost a "freeride-light" machine without the weight.
Anyone with an FSR, get this kit before you buy a new bike. I was going to get the Titus Switchblade, as I love the design and the bike but found 2.75" travel a joke.....now the FSR isn't the build quality of the Titus, but for £90 ($125) you really do get about 90% of the Titus performance!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Racer
from La Mirada Date Reviewed: October 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anything to get away
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
BETD, UK
Strengths:
My BETD Link is the FSR '01 link. It made what was an efficient short travel full suspension bike an even more efficient longer travel machine. The link looks good, it's well made, easy to install, offers FOUR travel settings, and raises my BB to a better technical riding height. The bearings are butter smooooth and quiet. The tech support from customer service is one of the best I have experienced
Weaknesses:
I wish it was less expensive.......(But is worth the price)
Similar Products Used:
OEM 98 and 01 FSR XC link
Bike Setup:
01 Stumpy FSR Xc Pro, Psylo SL, Thomson St&Po, Answer ProCarbon Riser, Stylo Team SL and XTR drive stuff.
Bottom Line:
Just when I was thinking of purchasing another bike with longer (rear) travel, I ran across the BETD website and figured Y-not. Now I have a light FSR XC (under 26 LBS)with adjustable travel both front and rear (5 inches max). Pretty good for an (longer travel)XC bike. My first ride with the link made me tired,,,,from smiling. It was so satisfying to have longer travel on my FSR. (I was not happy that I only had 3" on the rear while having 5 " up front). The rear suspension still stayed active and the pedal bobbing was the same as with the OEM link (minimal). My BB can be raised another 1+ inch (which I prefer) and now clear more obstacles on the trail that I used to hit my pedals on. Like the previous posters state, the money spent on the link is like getting another bike. It didn't take me long to get used to the different ride height and geometry (it's not drastic). But it does help that I can chage my front end geometry by adjusting the travel of the psylo. One word of warning......Take it slow on your first downhill. I rode the new link on a familiar singletrack (downhill) with numerous stuuter bumps that used to get me to go slow. I didn't realize how much faster I was going because the sweet link soaked up the bumps so well that I almost lost it. I am now a happier rider and a great fan of the BETD link. You'll love this thing. BTW, I found the prvious reviews (although for the links on the 99's and 00's) very helpfull and influenced my decision to buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SCUBAPRO
a Weekend Warrior
from Aliso Viejo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: September 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Santiago Trail/Vulture Crags
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$165.00
Purchased At:
BETD.co.uk
Strengths:
Looks great, well designed, fits perfectly, 8mm shock bolt, very easy to install,
Weaknesses:
Weight; can't use the 6" setting with my stratos-I have to switch to Fox Vanilla Float for the 6 " setting.
Similar Products Used:
Original FSR link
Bike Setup:
'99 Specialized FSR, Fox Vanilla Forx 125 RLC, Stratos Helix Expert, MRP (bearings, bash guard, springs), Avid Mechanical Disc Brakes, King Headset, Thomson Stem, XT Sun Rhyno Lite Wheels, XT/XTR power/drivetrain...
Bottom Line:
This link works; period! Buy it if you want to get more rear travel. Best if used with a 5" fork. Gives you very plush travel (WOW! I really didn't expect this). Well worth its price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Peoria Date Reviewed: September 16, 2002
I love this link. For 9 months I had it in the middle setting, 4 inches, I think. Well I just maxed it out to the last setting, (5 inches ??). I added a psylo 125 mm up front and could not be happier with the whole setup. My rig is plush and sticks to the trail. I still recommend getting this link rather than getting a new bike. The bike is much much taller now and took some getting used to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Downhiller
from Alaska Date Reviewed: July 22, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my earlier review. My bike started to make the familier creaking sound that I have been fighting since '98. I replaced my BB but the sound remains. This has always meant something with the linkage. During my tear down tonight, I decided to measure how much travel I was getting out of the three positions with the spring removed and the shock bolted in place. Well it isn't 4",5" & 6" listed at the top of this review. More like 3", 3.75" and 4.5". This is after subtracting the approxiate width of the rubber bottom out bumper.
I'm a bit disappointed. I thought about it some more and remembered that the BETD ad showed the MAX FSR frame and not my lower end frame. Specialized orginally listed the MAX frame with 4.5" of travel and the regular frame with 4.3". The 4.3" was horsesh!t as it was closer to 3.5" but none the less my BETD link has less travel than I thought I was getting. Another thing to think about, my bike is a small frame. Maybe with a larger frame you might get more travel?
Someone else check you link and post back your findings. I measured with the rear wheel removed right at the drop out. It was easy to do. Let me know what you find.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: July 6, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD (online)
Strengths:
Stiffens up the rear laterally. Changes the travel and generally messes with your mind... (see below)
Weaknesses:
Uh... a little pricey here in Canada. It's a hunk of metal for chrissakes...
Similar Products Used:
Nuttin'
Bike Setup:
2000 FSR Comp Disc. Thomson post/stem, Time, WTB headset (hey, I was on a budget that month), RF rings, the rest just near stock. (other slight upgrades)
Bottom Line:
This thing is real cool. I noticed a difference right away although the fact that my BB height changed siginificantly. That in itself was just too weird. Imagine riding a what-you-though-was-perfect set-up for a while and then change the whole geometry on the same bike and WHAM... It's orientation day all over again. Don't get me wrong though - it's absolutely PERFECT. I would recommend this thing to anyone who needs it. Drop the cash and get a whole new bike. I mean, I practically changed my XC ride instantly to something that can handle a more aggressive terrain. And of course, everyone is just goo-goo over Rob at BETD so I might as well put my 2 cents in. Ya he's good. He responded quickly to my emails too. Except when the link showed up scratched to hell he became a little suspicious. Apparently "all links are inspected before they are shipped". Well, my bottom line is - stuff doesn't get scuffed inside virtually untouched bubble-wrap. Someone sent me a piece of metal with gouges in it and it looked like s**t. It looked used but Rob assured me that it was perhaps the last of the bunch to go out and it slipped past inspection. Ok that's fine. At least he credited me the cost of shipping. Still, one thing to keep in mind is - there's a helluva lot of Specialized FSR's out there but FEW have this good of an upgrade on them. Show it off when you can because you'll never get the resale out of it anyway!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Downhiller
from Alaska Date Reviewed: June 25, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
Very well made, nice to look at, performs as advertised.
Weaknesses:
Not really a weakness but you will have to change spring rates to utilize all three mounting positions. My bike had an 800 lb spring which was good for the 4", soft of the 5" and unuseable in the 6". I now use a 1050 lb for the 6" and love it. The 1050 lb is too stiff for the other positions.
Bike Setup:
'98 FSR Extreme - Psylo SL, BETD link + full bearing kit
Bottom Line:
I am really happy with the link. Rob responded to all of my emails even after I purchased the product and was having difficulty in finding a stiffer spring. The ordering was easy to do and it was shipped in less than a week to Alaska from England. I was impressed with the prompt delivery.
The link transformed my bike into what I have wanted for teh past 4 years. There is no comparison with the stock link unless you use it in the 4" of travel with too soft of a spring. Then the ride is the same. In 6" the bike floats over everything, gets awesome traction while climbing and lets you bomb downhills that you simply couldn't do with any contraol on the stock bike.
I'm really pleased and have not had any problems. The bearing kit makes the rear suspension much more plush and laterally stiffer as well. The bearings are a bit of a pain to install as the directions could use some pictures but everything comes loosely fited together so it isn't a big deal as long as you are patient.
Like somebody said earlier, if you like your bike and just want more travel this is the way to go. 6" rear and a new front fork you will completely transform your bike for 1/4 of the cost of a comparitively priced new bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a
from Edinburgh, Scotland Date Reviewed: June 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
Quality, design, looks
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Stock link
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper FSR
Bottom Line:
Excellent product, transforms the feel of your bike. Go for the bearing kit as well, as mentioned in previous reviews with the shock removed the stock bushing setup would stay where you left it, with the bearing kit it virtually frictionless. Fitting the linkage is pretty straightforward.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from Costa Mesa, CA UA Date Reviewed: June 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
El Moro, Santiago Truck Trail, San Juan, Aliso Woods
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD.com
Strengths:
Quality of materials, quality of workmanship, fit, customer service, does what it is designed to do.
Weaknesses:
Weight (that's being extremly critical)
Similar Products Used:
Stock link
Bike Setup:
S-works FSR, XT/XTR, Duke Race, Koobi AU, Mavic
Bottom Line:
Here's the deal. This link does what it is supposed to do. Its quality is exceptional. Its performance is wonderful. Rob at BETD responded to EVERY email (about 20 total). The link is made extremely well, and it fits and works better than OEM. Installation is straight forward: You will need a good vice with soft jaws. You will need to lengthen your rear derailleur cable housing and probably your rear break cable housing as well. You will need a small amount of grease and a little patience. You will also need to adjust your shock pressure and maybe your rebound as well. With that, it is simply a great product. Thanks, Rob GO BETD!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Weekend Warrior
from Foothill Ranch, CA Date Reviewed: May 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
SanJaun Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Adjustabilty of 4",5",&6" of travel, No brainer to install, looks great
Weaknesses:
A little heavy, but worth the extra weight
Similar Products Used:
Stock linkage
Bike Setup:
98 FSR Extreme, M1 MCR 5" travel, Helix Pro with lockout, MSP Bearing kit, XTR
Bottom Line:
You can buy a new bike for big bucks, but install this on your bike and you will have a new ride. Save up to buy this linkage if you have to,but you wont be disapointed, WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aaron bolton
a Racer
from columbia mo usa Date Reviewed: May 22, 2002
great upgrade. waiting to get get a bearing kit to complete the package and a new fork to balance out the travel and slack out the ht angle. thats the major concern with this kit. you need a taller fork when you buy it otherwise you will be on top of your front wheel all the time. rob was a lot of help when i bought the kit and was really quick on returning emails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a
from AZ Date Reviewed: May 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
S Mountain
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Added travel BB Height
Weaknesses:
Horizontal play
Similar Products Used:
Stock link
Bike Setup:
99 FSR XC, Race Face, XT/XTR/Sram, Z2 Atom 80 ect
Bottom Line:
The link still rocks. However, I am having some horizontal play between the link and the Fox shock. I have wraped the alu bushings with teflon tape to increase the snugness between the bushings and the shock. This seems to have cut down on the play. The unwanted horizontal play has not effected the performance. By far this adjustable link is far better that the stock link and has saved me from spending 3K on a new bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pablo
a Downhiller
from Xtreeme@btopenworld Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
BETD Direct
Strengths:
Adjustable 4,5,6", overall strengh+finishing-remember to uprate your spring to allow for travel!!!! Ask Rob!Price-cheap for new bike=that is what you get with this!
Weaknesses:
none yet....apart from lil bit fiddleyto fit, but if I can do it-so can you.Choice of colours,haha! I got a Blue one!
was planning to buy new frame,but there wasnt anything wrong with my FSR-I do likemy bike suits me for everything-apart form the lack of travel-then saw this..mountain speed do kit=I couldnt justify spending that much on parts, so I called Rob-very helpful guy!turned my FSR into the bike I could only dream of!-soaks up everything-plush etc,
Question=why didnt Specialized think of this sooner?BETD got it right,talk to the guys, they are very helpful+good after sales to-Thanks guys!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from AZ Date Reviewed: March 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD Direct
Strengths:
Adjustibility Latteral Stiffness Roller Bearings
Weaknesses:
Need a vise to install bushings On the 110mm setting the Fox valve stem is too close to the seat tower. Can't get the shock pump on.
Similar Products Used:
Stock link
Bike Setup:
1999 FSR XC, Z2 Atom 80, XT/XTR/Sram, Race Face, Fox Float R Yadda, Yadda
Bottom Line:
This link rocks. Specialize missed the boat on this one. Not even the stock links on the 2001 & 2002 FSR XC can compair. The added BB height is a super plus, wasn't expecting a full 1.5 inches. Couppled with the Bomber and a 2.3 front tire, my FSR XC is now the trail bike I have always wanted. I was going to drop 3K on a new Titus, but now I have what I need. If you are thinking of getting rid of your FSR XC because you want more travel, give Rob at BETD a call, he will do you right.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: February 25, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
betd online
Strengths:
Added travel w/ the option to change from 4-6", increased stability, raises bottom bracket.
Weaknesses:
none yet. A little spendy but cheaper than a new frame.
I was seriously thinking about buying a different frame, more along the lines of the rocker arm type of rear suspension (Giant AC, Ellsworth ID). I had become annoyed w/ the low bottom bracket of the FSR Enduro. My pedals would hit stuff that I felt they shouldn't have been hitting. My Fox Float R needed to remained pumped up to 250 lbs. (I weigh 230lbs.) so my BB would be at it's highest with the stock link. After having put on the BETD link my BB height was considerably higher and the lateral stability at worst was the same as before (I think it may even be better). For $150 shipped I got a new bike. I'm even able to run my air shock a little lower pressure because my BB is raised by the link. If you've had an FSR for a while and feel like a change try this upgrade before you buy a new frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Mansfield Center, CT Date Reviewed: February 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Case
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
betd
Strengths:
Adjustable travel. Workmanship. Stiffness. Price.
Weaknesses:
NONE.
Similar Products Used:
Stock linkage.
Bike Setup:
2000 Enduro Pro frame. Rock Shox SID rear shock. Psylo SL front. Avid discs. RaceFace Next LP. Mavic wheels with Specialized hubs.
Bottom Line:
I originally bought this for my 99 Enduro. I recently bought a 2000 Enduro frame and fit the link to the new frame. Only minor adjustments needed to the rear of the bike to make it work with the 2000 frame. The weather has been great in southern New England this winter. This has given me the opportunity to ride the new set up a lot. In my opinion, the link works even better with this frame and the SID rear. I was using a Cane Creek air shock in the rear and never felt I had the full benefit of the link. I urge anyone with a 2000 Enduro to call Rob and see what he can do for you. My riding buddy has a brand spankin' new Big Hit comp and my bike rides like a lighter version! The only thing I could see making this better would be a coil spring in the rear but that would limit the adjustability you get with air. The balance with the Psylo in the front and the six inches in the rear is the ticket!! i have recommended this product to friends that have FSR bikes and the ones that have taken my advice cannot believe how their bikes ride!! i have ridden an FSR XC with the link for that bike and love a 24lb trailbike with 5 inches of travel!! That may be my next project!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vic Sutton
a
from Camberley,Surrey,UK Date Reviewed: February 6, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great piece of engineering.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Standard link
Bike Setup:
99 FSR Expert, Judy SL, SID rear, link with additional seat-stay and swing-arm bearings.
Bottom Line:
See my earlier review covering fitting and initial impressions.
Having had it installed for a couple of months, I’ve done a few miles on it and can honestly say its been worth every penny! BUY ONE NOW IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY. I have played around with various pressures in the SID and have fixed on 175 & 155 (+/-) on middle link setting [I'm 81 kg]. This seems to allow the shock to respond to the trail chatter as well as roots, ruts, rocks etc. The bike seems finally to have that front/rear balance that makes it easy to go fast on the rough stuff. The suspension is no longer intrusive; it just does its job soaking up the bumps. I find myself deliberately looking for obstacles to test the suspension, so far no complaints.
No complaints about the durability of the link, bearings etc - nothing broken,seized etc yet !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Cross Country Rider
from Tulsa, Oklahoma Date Reviewed: February 2, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
Improves trailbike characteristics of FSR XC. Quality of construction and workmanship.
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
2000 FSR Stumpjumper FSR XC (Large), Manitou X-Vert Air, Fox Air rear shock.
Bottom Line:
This link combined with a long-travel fork makes the FSR XC an excellent trailbike. More specifically, the fork and link combination increased the bottom bracket height and travel (I use the middle travel setting (approx. 4" of travel)) and improved the ability of the bike to negotiate rocky sections. My biggest complaint about the stock bike is the low bottom bracket height. The stock geometry is nice on smooth trails but it's inadequate on rocky trails. The longer front and rear travel also makes the bike a more agressive downhill machine. My bike is set up with the link curved up (i.e., smiley face); I prefer the slacker front end.
I haven't used any of the other travel settings yet because I've been so pleased with the middle position. The weight to travel ratio of this bike is outstanding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Peoria AZ USA Date Reviewed: January 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$170.00
Purchased At:
BETD Direct
Strengths:
Plush, Plush, Plush Added BB height Rob is way cool
Weaknesses:
Price Directions are hard to follow A vise is needed to press the new bushing in
Similar Products Used:
Stock link
Bike Setup:
99 FSR XC, Z2 Atom 80, mix of XTR/XT/Sram 9.0, Crosslinks, Race Face cranks, Fox Float R, Easton Monkey carbon riser bar.
Bottom Line:
After two epic rides I can tell you this. It is soooo plush. Put the shock on the 100mm setting and you have turned your FSR XC into an unstoppable trail bike. It is so plush I thought I was riding on a flat tire. Coupled with a Fire DH Pro 26 X 2.3 front tire, the added travel will allow you to carve turns like never before. Get this link if you are thinking of getting a new bike because you have out grown your FSR XC. I will add to this at a later date. I have more shredding to do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anders Nilsson
a Downhiller
from Sweden Date Reviewed: January 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Vättlefjäll
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
www.betd.co.uk
Strengths:
It works, gives more travel. Stronger then the stock link. Looks. Works with the stock shock. Easy to mount.
Weaknesses:
I had to change brakecable hose and derailleurcable hose. I also had to change spring to a stiffer one.
Similar Products Used:
Stock link.
Bike Setup:
Fsr Enduro -99, Z1 Drop Off -01, RooX stem, 636M
Bottom Line:
I use my enduro for DH and freeriding. First i had to change spring because the stock was to soft with the new link. But when i had done that it was almost like a completely new bike. 8 foot drops is easy and link copes with it really good.
BUT it has some faults. You probably have to change spring and brakecable... In the long run these are nothing compared to the strengths. Everyone with a FSR should buy one. My friend has the XC version an he loves it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
graham sanson
a Downhiller
from sydney. australia Date Reviewed: January 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
betd
Strengths:
soaks up everything up to three foot dropoffs very nicely. it made a noticably nice change to the feel of my bike.
Weaknesses:
i'm a 14 stone rider. i like to do abit of aggressive street riding on the those summer nights. in the process i have bent a total of 3 bolts running through my linkage plate including the travel adjuster bolt. keep it off the streets and in the woods!
Similar Products Used:
standard fsr linkage plate.
Bike Setup:
r/s psylos sl, 321 fr, 521 rr, rs 7's, hope enduro f.b., xt rest. usually run 5" travel on rear.
Bottom Line:
i am going to replace my bent bolts because i simply can't wait to get back on my bike. i won't however be treating my bike in the way i did when i first fitted my new linkage plate though. my confidence to try big stuff is slightly dashed.
if you are a light and modest freerider it will suit you just fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kell
a Weekend Warrior
from IL, United States Date Reviewed: December 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$152.00
Purchased At:
direct from betd
Strengths:
Adds much needed travel, super strong design, ride height adjustability, 3 travel settings
Weaknesses:
pretty expensive for a block of aluminum and some bearings.
Similar Products Used:
MSR link for FSR XC
Bike Setup:
2001 Rockhopper with Duke SL 100mm fork
Bottom Line:
this is a review for the FSR XC link. I purposely got a 2001 rockhopper so I could increase the travel and have a good trailbike for a lot cheaper than an enduro. This link is great, my brother has the MSR on his 2000 FSR XC pro and the BETD is much better in my opinion. It has adjustability to go from 90mm-110mm-130mm. I like it on the 5" setting. Didn't even bother trying it on the lower ones. Super plush and linear travel. I was worried it might ramp up at the end of its travel but it works great. putting a taller fork and this link on got my bottom bracket up off the trail also. It really stiffens the back end up, and its way overbuilt compared to the stock garbage. I am very pleased with it, like I said before, I tried out the MSR and liked it but this link is much better in my opinion unless you are trying to save a couple of grams, in which case you shouldn't be riding full suspension anyway. I was worried about ordering overseas but it went real smooth and got here in 2 weeks even over a holiday. worth the wait! $152 included shipping is a little high but no higher than the msr.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vic Sutton
a Weekend Warrior
from camberley, UK Date Reviewed: November 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Stength & finish. You won't believe how good it is compared to original link. It just oozes quality ! DO NOT BOTHER ABOUT THE WEIGHT GAIN. THE OTHER ADVANTAGES FAR OUTWEIGH THIS DISADVANTAGE !
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
original link (enough said !)
Bike Setup:
99 FSR Expert with SID shock; A-link & seat-stay bearing kits (a must with the link)
Bottom Line:
Buy it now!
I have the link + bearing kits installed. I cannot believe how good the bike feels (& looks). Installation requires some thought as its not obvious how the seat-stay bearing kit fits into place. I am quite capable of doing most of my own bike fixes, but this one fooled me for a while. Rob at BETD was very happy to answer any questions I fired at him (Thanks Rob). Basically you have to drift the original core from the top seat-stay tube in order to press fit the new bearing races and put through the new core. I just replaced the original bolt into the core thread, turned it over and with some pliers around the bolt shank, tapped it out with a hammer. The core is held in place by the original ptfe bush sleeves. It is easier to work with the seat-stay detached from the frame as fitting the bearings can be done more easily.
Only small problem concerns the MY SID rear shock mounting . The valve shafts which project horizontally from the housing (some models have them at 45 deg from horizontal and are OK), come pretty close to contacting the link at full extension in the middle (5") position. In the 6" position it touches. When I told Rob about it he advised me to invert and rotate the shock to achieve some more clearance. At present I have not experimented with this and I'm quite happy with the 5" setting. I prefer XC to downhill anyway.
With the extra leverage and plushness, the SID required some extra pressure; I went from 150 psi to 190 psi in the +ve chamber, but am still experimenting with this. This certainly felt pretty good straight away.
First thing you notice is how plush the travel has become compared to the original link/bushes. Just lean on the saddle and the rear starts to compress; no more stiction. On riding the bike the lateral stiffness becomes very obvious. I took it for a spin on the road and soon found how much more efficient my pedalling had become. Previously, it felt like your had to keep pushing just to maintain your speed, but now its more like my hard-tail/road-bike, in that you reach a point where maintaing a constant speed is easy and you can 'back-off' slightly. I found that bigger gears could be pushed on the flat and that 19-20 mph was very easy to achieve. In fact, out-of-the saddle sprints could now figure in my riding style !
Need to get off-road to get fuller evaluation of the upgrade, but judging by the way it goes up/down curbs, without feeling a thing, I won't be disappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Amierica Date Reviewed: November 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
grahm hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$170.00
Strengths:
none!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Weaknesses:
snaps, bearings, and everything else
Bike Setup:
fsr xc marzocchi z1 x fly fox float
Bottom Line:
don't buy it sucks. it increses your travel but almost breaks your bike. several of my friends have them and they also snapped under preasure. We only rohde them of a 3ft jump.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nicke
a Cross Country Rider
from Sweden Date Reviewed: September 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Statoilstigen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
BEDT
Strengths:
Made a good bike (Fsr XC-00) awesome, plusher but still fast.
Weaknesses:
Well, if i have to say something, the bearing seals is not extremely good. Was riding in HEAVY rain though. Front bearing in the link got (almost) stuck. Easy fixed in a couple minutes.
Similar Products Used:
Stock link
Bike Setup:
Link at 110mm, Psylo Race (100mm), Formula B4, XTR stuff...
Bottom Line:
A GREAT product. One thing, if you have some play at the link fore and aft (as I had...) throw the stock linkbolts away, they are to thin! The shank (non-threaded area) has to just go trough both sides of the framebracket where the link is mounted, (maybe has to add a washer or two) then the play was gone. Was the same for the stock link, and i guess many links on many bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Picard
a Cross Country Rider
from W. Hartford, CT, USA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
www.Betd.co.uk
Strengths:
Machining and bearing quality - Travel and ride height options
Weaknesses:
None - but you will need some technical abilty to install
Similar Products Used:
Original Link
Bike Setup:
Stock FSR-XC full XT and XTR. Added Manitou x-vert, Time Pedals, Black Spire XC Ring guard, and Botrager FS2000 saddle, Panaracer Fire XC tires.
Bottom Line:
I put a ton of research into this purchase so if you are on teh fence between this link and the Mountain Speed X-rated link read on. I purchased a used 2000 FSR-XC stumpjumper which had its frame replaced due to inproper BB installation. I got a 2001 rockhopper comp frame which has an upgraded swing arm with full sealed bearings and rear IS disc mount. I was looking to purchase this bike(frame) with the intent on using one of these links for added travel out of the box. I emailed many of the owners of this link which have posted reviews and did the same with the X-rated owners. I also spoke with Rob Lewis at BETD direct. This guy is incredibly nice and really cares that he is making an excellent product. He has made well over 200+ of these links and has tweaked it to be a good match of strength and light weight to satisfy the XC riders. You could really tell he enjoys talking to customers. He stated that he only knew of 4 links that have broken in the field - all due to those 8ft or more drop offs from stairs and stuff. The kind of thing most XC riders don't do or should do with a XC bike anyway. As stated by another reivewer he did get his link replaced for free - but Rob insisted that the owners all honestly tell him how the link broke so he could make it better - and he did! He tweaked it a little to gain 20% more strength and has not had anyone break one yet. But this link is still not meant to do sick dropoffs. Get an overbuilt freeride bike for that. When I called he had only a small inventory left and all were special colors. He had a sweet red one which goes so well with my frame - all at no extra cost. Well I finally got the BETD link upgrade and installed it before the weekend and got to ride it today. My first impression is excellent. The link offers 3 travel positions and is assymetrical. It is curved. Have the curve facing down and you get an increase BB clearance. Flip it facing upward you still raise the BB but not as much. I set it up and measured it so I could give you an idea on the settings. The travel is 90, 110, and 130mm. In the curved down setup the BB height is 13.25", 13.75", and 14.25" respectfully. Curved down the BB height is 12.75", 13.25", and 13.75" respectfully. Bear in mind that I have a long travel fork and non-stock tires that also factor into ride height. The link settings also affects the head tube angle. I set it up both ways and I like the upward curve and the slacker head tube. The change in ride is really nice. I am not sure I have the shock pressure dialed in just right but I can definitely tell I have an extra inch of travel and its quite plush - noticeably better than stock. It really stiffens up the torsional rigidity of the entire swing arm. I set mine up for 4" right out of the box. Its awesome.
The link is wonderfully machined and the bearings are all top quality. The only bearing I needed to replace was the one in the shock eye. My frame had sealed bearings in the horst link already. It really requires a good vise preferably with brass plates so as it will not mar the shock or the new bushings that go into it. The shock eye bush is incredibly a tight fit. Rob warned me of this upfront and you will need to work the bush back and forth while clamped in the vise. At first I was pretty upset that it was so much work to get it to seat but I have been conversing with another FSR owner via email who already had a BETD link and he said the same thing too. In fact he had to send his fox shock for unrelated maintence and they were totally impressed with the bushing. They even called him about where he got it. He gave them Rob's information and they gave him free service on his shock they were so impressed. Apparently they are looking for better bushings than what they offer now and Rob's are real good. Once on the bike they will break in and offer an incredible ride. This link is so much more than the Mountain speed X-rated kit. It only offer two setting and the holes that correspond to them are right on top of each other and I think is a weaker design than the BETD link. Don't be put off by the fact that you have to order it from England. The price is incredible for such a robust piece of machining and engineering. My hat goes off to Rob and BETD. This is truly a product I whole heartedly recommend. Be good to your bike and yourself and give Rob a call and buy one. You will not be dissappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from White Plains, NY, USA Date Reviewed: July 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
local stuff
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
betd.co.uk
Strengths:
Great machining. Exact tolerances. Perfect fit...Does exactly what it was designed to do and does it very well. The best of all upgrades of this type.
Weaknesses:
none...
Similar Products Used:
stock link
Bike Setup:
2000 FSR xc pro...Psylo SL...BETD Link and Bearing kit
Bottom Line:
This product truly is awesome. It works very well and is extremely sturdy. With the addition of my new Psylo SL, I have a 'new' bike that is more appropriate for the riding I have been doing. I changed my lightweight xc bike into a lightweight freeride bike for very little investment comparatively. I can truly recommend this product to anyone looking for a serious travel upgrade. This bike, which used to be relatively stiff for a full sus bike is now super plush...Thanks BOB, You rule!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Loch Miwa
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, IL Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
www.betd.co.uk
Strengths:
It's the RIDE!!! (The production quality is also amazing.)
The difference is absolutely amazing. Almost like the difference between a hardtail and FS! Anyone with a Spec FSR used for anything other than XC racing will benefit from this.
I checked out the Mountain Speed linkage kit as well, but I prefer being able to choose my own shock and the multiple travel options the BETD kit allows. I got both the link and the full replacement roller bearings set.
My original linkage had the stock bushings everywhere and was so stiff that with the shock removed, I could move the rear suspension to any position and it would stay there. Now, it immediately drops back down. Friction gone!
Although the 4" setting should replicate the original link's TRAVEL, there is a noticable change in the ride QUALITY. The 5" and 6" settings make it a new bike altogether!
The linkage installation is a snap. Even my kids could have done that. The bearings are another story. While not terribly difficult, they take patience and a little thought (not to mention a press or a vice). Order it, and if it looks too tough, have your LBS do it for you. After putting it all together, I reinstalled the original shock (Fox Vanilla w/ 600lb spring). While it worked acceptably at the 4" setting, it was totally overwhelmed at the 6" setting. I think tar strips bottomed it out!
The variable travel also means variable leverage applied to the shock. I now have two shocks and four spring weights. Depending on the riding I will be doing, I choose the travel setting and install the appropriate shock / spring combination (a two minute swap). The Stratos works well at the 4" and 5" settings with either a 600lb or 700lb spring and air pressure adjustments. The Fox works well at the 5" and 6" settings with either an 800lb or 950lb spring. For both shocks, I also adjust the damping settings depending on terrain / travel. As reference, I'm 6'3", weigh 200lb, ride hard, but no huge drops. Let me say that "works well" really means "beyond all reasonable expectations!" I could probably get away with a Vanilla R and one spring. It would be a little stiff at 4" and a little soft at 6", but still WAY better than stock.
For me, the kit's weight isn't an issue, since every change I have made to the bike has increased the weight (and the strength, durability, capability, etc.)! This is easily THE BEST mod I have made so far.
Rob is THE GREATEST, call him!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron Randall
a Cross Country Rider
from Marlboro Date Reviewed: May 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything challanging
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
betd online
Strengths:
This thing looks too good to get dirty.The machine work is outstanding and it really changes your ride.I can sit and crank now.The bearings for the drop outs work great and are a cinch to install. Thanks to Bob at BETD I have the ride I have been looking for.I just have the link set at 4"and that does the trick.
Weaknesses:
Ha
Similar Products Used:
standard link
Bike Setup:
s works fsr ,xt, xtr, raceface stem and bars, 517 with hugi hubs,original strongarm cranks (Soon to change)thompson post,manitou cl fork(still ok)
Bottom Line:
Anyone with a fsr don't even think about weight when it comes to the transformation this piece can make.Smooth comes to mind.These items are a great value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
iain russell
a Downhiller
from ABERLADY Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Innerleithen,Scotland
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
BETD mail order
Strengths:
Strong,looks good and completly changes the bikes handling feel and changes the way you ride.
Weaknesses:
NONE AT ALL
Similar Products Used:
Origional link
Bike Setup:
98 fsr,mx6 forks,hope 4pots,azonic bars and stem,hope bulb/d521 front,goldtech/d521 rear.
Bottom Line:
This product is a must for any fsr owner,it will change your bike and your style of riding for the better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Downhiller
from Woodbridge, Suffolk, UK Date Reviewed: May 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
It was like purchasing a new bike. This link is amazingly plush and smooth even when using the original cheap shock. I was amazed at the difference, and it definately helps having six inches of insurance underneath you. I also got a custom colour which was particularly cool, a new and spangly piece of kit that gives you a new ride on the same bike!!!
Weaknesses:
Makes you wonder if you could ever cope before!
Similar Products Used:
Standard one which is stiff and jerky.
Bike Setup:
full DH setup, 6in all round.
Bottom Line:
Go and get this now. If the price is putting you off think of this, you get a brand new feeling bike for the price of a machined lump of metal. Not bad considering the price of DH frames at the moment. Rob at BETD is tremendously helpful before and after you have purchased anything and I got a really cool customised colour one as they had run out of stock! You will lead a new life of biking with comfort and fun thrown in to the bargain. Go and phone them now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: April 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
BETD
Strengths:
Bike geometry becomes super adjustable, can change BB height, more travel.
I changed my FSR XC Pro into a lightweight, extreme trailbike for steep climbs, slogging through mud and over logs. Some added travel and higher BB make the bike much more fun for technical, rugged trails. No more mashing the pedals on roots and rocks. I can easily change back to near stock XC setup by lowering the ride height on the link and doing a tire change back to my narrow XC racing tires. The BB height with stock link is too low for really rugged trails. I highly recommend this product along with the bearing kit. Buy this if you tend to ride more extreme or technical than normal XC racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Owens
a Racer
from Fresno, CA. Date Reviewed: April 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
BETD Direct
Strengths:
Weight, Design, Quality.
Weaknesses:
The lighter the part the easier it breaks
Similar Products Used:
NONE
Bike Setup:
The way I like it
Bottom Line:
This product has tuned a average bike into a stellar performer. If you buy this item get the bearing kit that is available for all the pivots. This product will not disapoint you.
You will never find another company that is so dedicated to customer satisfaction as BETD. This is a company that stands behind their product 100%. I say this because I broke my first link. It was a bad landing of a large drop/jump.
BETD Replaced the link at no charge. However I tell ya if I break another link it will not be free. The original product was designed to make a XC bike better. Not turn it into a Free Ride machine. I learnt this the hard way.
If you are a lead foot and have to jump higher and go faster each time out. I would recommend that you upgrade the air shock to a coil over, Stratos, or Fox. I use the Stratos Helix Pro. Ride smooth and remember That the FSR XC is a Cross Xountry bike (XC) and should be riden as designed. It was not made to jump the 6 foot truck loading ramp at work. If you want to get into this look at a stinky from KONA or get a big hit.
If you get this link you will not be diapointed. Great service Exeptional product!!! Don't find the two together these days
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
WOODY GRATKOWSKI
a Cross Country Rider
from TULSA, OK USA Date Reviewed: April 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
THE POWERLINE
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
ROB@BETD.CO.UK
Strengths:
THE SOLID QUALITY AND ASTHETICS ARE JUST THE START TO THIS WELL THOUGHT OUT SWING LINK. THE CHOICE OF TRAVEL OF 4,5,AND 6 CAN'T BE BEATEN EITHER. THEN THERE IS THE PRICE, MAN I THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO HAVE TO DROP THE 400.00 FOR THE MSRP BUT THANKS TO ROB I ONLY DROPPED LESS THAN 160.00 INCLUDING SHIPPING AND INSURANCE.
Weaknesses:
IF THERE ARE TO BE ANY WEAKNESSES I WOULD HAVE TO SAY THE ONLY COMPLAINT WOULD BE THE OVERALL WEIGHT OF THE LINK WHICH IS EASILY OVER LOOKED AS SOON AS ONE GETS A REAL TEST RIDE AND FINDS OUT JUST HOW PLUSH THIS GIZMO IS, I DON'T EVEN NOTICE THE EXTRA WEIGHT.
Similar Products Used:
THE CRAPPY STANDARD LINK THAT CAME STOCK ON THE BIKE
THE BOTTOM LINE IS THAT THIS LINK OFFERS A GREAT DEAL OF TRAVEL FOR THE BUCK. I TAKE DROPS OF 4-5 FEET AND THE BIKE ABSORBS THE IMPACT SMOOTHLY WITHOUT BOTTOMING OUT, AND THAT IS JUST FOR THE 5-INCH SETTING. IT ABSORBS SMALL BUMPS SO WELL THAT MANY OF THEM I DON'T EVEN FEEL AND THE LARGER BUMPS THAT I CONNECT WITH AT HIGH SPEEDS ARE NO MORE THAN A FLUMP UNDER MY FRAME(THANKS TO THE SMOOTH ROLLING ACTION OF THE BEARINGS THAT COME WITH THE LINK). PLUS ROB DID ME A FAVOR AND CUSTOMED ANODIZED A GREEN LINK FOR ME(WHAT A GUY). I HAVE BEEN SO PLEASED WITH THIS PRODUCT IT HAS HELD UP TO ALL MY EXPECTATIONS AND SURPASSED ALL OTHERS. BUY THIS PRODUCT IF YOU WANT TO UPGRADE YOUR BIKE FOR A HIGHER QUALITY RIDE, IT WILL BE AN INTELLIGENT CHOICE FOR AN UPGRADE. I GUARANTEE YOU WILL BE PLEASED.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rhys Owen
a Weekend Warrior
from Wales,UK Date Reviewed: April 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anything Muddy and Fast
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$175.00
Purchased At:
www.betd.co.uk
Strengths:
Strong and good looks, excellent travel and much smoother..
Weaknesses:
A Little heavy and can prove difficult to install, especially the dropout bearings. Highest setting a little too high for the bike!
Bike Setup:
2000FSR XC Comp various modifications including: FSA OrbitXLII headset, titec short stem, Orange supercross 2 bars etc..
Bottom Line:
This suspension link and bearing kit is an excellent upgrade if you do anything other than smooth trails. I do quite a lot of downhill on my FSR XC, and this link makes it far more ridable on the fast bumpy stuff and big hits. The highest setting is a little too high and the air shock (Fox Float R) has trouble supporting me (I weigh 14st) even when pumped up really hard. The bearings are much better than the originals, they should last a lot longer than the 6 months the original ones did! Rob at BETD is very helpful and I would buy off him again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from Belgium Date Reviewed: March 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
www.betd.co.uk
Strengths:
The link is a nice piece of engineering. The overall quality is great. Installation and maintenance of the link is very easy. The rear suspension is now so plush! The bike is also stiffer. Finally, you have the choice between six configurations (3 travel options and 2 head angle option). You can also choose the color of the link: Rob@betd has more than 5 color options! Rob is a genius and his link is a must-buy if you have a Specialized FSR-XC. The bike is now completely better!
Weaknesses:
I ordered the link with the needle bearings for the dropout pivots and they are not easy to install, but plushness is now perfect. The installation of the link required new cable housing (cable were long enough). Actually, weaknesses occured only during installation. The link is not very light, but who cares...
Similar Products Used:
I did not try the MountainSpeed X-Rated Kit, but the BETD link has more travel options than the MS one (only two head angle options). The BETD link has needle bearings with removable sealings, while the MS link has industrially sealed ball bearings. The MS link is probably lighter than the BETD one, but I prefer to have the travel options!
Bike Setup:
Stock Specialized FSR-XC model year 2000, with black BETD link and dropout bearings.
Bottom Line:
The BETD long travel link is really a good upgrade to any Specialized FSR-XC (StumpJumper '99 and '00, and RockHopper '01). Although they are not easy to install, the needle bearings for the dropout pivots also improve plushness. All in all, the BETD link is a good idea, so good that Specialized has now designed a similar link for the 2001 StumpJumper FSR-XC. Buy this link!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tycho
a Weekend Warrior
from Southern California, USA Date Reviewed: March 5, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
BETD's website
Strengths:
First and formost, Rob@BETD is a great guy just like everyone says. The build quality of the link itself is really nice. The adjustable travel is a neat feature. You can get the link in silver or black.
Weaknesses:
It's hard to find fault with the link itself. The leverage ratio is now like 4:1 on the shock, so the shock rebound damping is now a bit too soft. The shock bushings I got were a little loose compared to the stock items.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
98 FSR ground control w/ 100 mm z.1 bam, stock rshx coupe deluxe mounted in the six inch position.
Bottom Line:
This is a really nice addition to my FSR. I really like the added travel, and it doesn't seem to degrade the performance of the bike in any way.
The value proposition is kind of dependent on your particular situation. If you already have a nice rear shock, then the BETD link is definitely the cat's meow.
I have a plain-jane coupe deluxe with no rebound adjustment and it feels a little under-damped now, so now I wish I had a better shock... You also might have to get a different spring because of the different leverage ration of this link over the stock one. So, yeah, you can use your stock shock, but you may not want to. That's the reason for my value rating.
But still, $150 for the BETD link plus $250 for a nice shock is about the same price as the Mountain Speed FSR kit. But with the BETD link you get the adjustable travel (probably more useful than the adjustable head angle, IMHO) and you get to choose your shock. Or you can stick with the shock you've got. I like having the options, thus the reasons for my overall rating.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil Moses
a Weekend Warrior
from Downingtown, PA, USA Date Reviewed: February 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything steep
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
betd.co.uk
Strengths:
My god, this thing is amazing! The ajustability of the travel is great. I can switch between 4, 5, and 6 inches in about one minute. It has so much more room then the stock link. This allows you to put in almost any shock that you want. If you were thinking of putting a shock with an external resevior that didn't fit on the fsr frame its no problem. You can flip the shock upside down. Rob at betd couldn't have made this link any better.
Weaknesses:
You could sit down and stair at this thing forever and you will never find a flaw. The only problem with putting the link on your bike is the stock shock. When you put the shock in the four inch hole it makes the suspension stiffer, in the five inch hole its about the same, and i the six inch hole its a lot softer then the original. You really need to get a shock that is ajustable or get yourself a set of springs. With an ajustable shock and the betd link you have an unstoppable combination.
Similar Products Used:
The stock link, which is nothing compared to the betd link.
Bike Setup:
98' Specialized FSR, Marzocchi Z.1 MCR, SRAM shifters, Shimano disc brakes in front, XT and XTR components, Betd suspension link, Stratos Helix Pro
Bottom Line:
If you have an FSR you are wasting your time riding without this link. Its amazing the difference that this link makes. A must buy for anyone with an FSR.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Vernon, CT Date Reviewed: February 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Case Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
BETD website
Strengths:
Super high quality work. Adjustable travel. Great looking.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Stock linkage.
Bike Setup:
99 FSR Enduro.Monkey Lite bars.Next LP's.Avid Discs.Noleen Mega Air fork.Grip Shift.Thompson seat post.Crosslink wheels.Cane Creek air shock.
Bottom Line:
I just installed this link. I have only given it a short test ride due to the snow conditions here in CT. The first thing you will notice is the lateral stiffness. Unbelievable difference from stock. Travel is plush and there is plenty of it. Total custom job. Rob @ betd does amazing work. Fits like it was made by the factory. Only issue I had with installation was to lengthen cables going to the rear of the bike. More than happy to have do that! Once the snow clears I will really hammer this thing and post an update. Until then I will daydream about what this thing will do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eurosac
a Cross Country Rider
from wichita ks Date Reviewed: December 29, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
betd web site
Strengths:
quality product,ajustable travel options and cartridge bearing
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
risse racing "gp" link crap 1st one bearing self desructed after one ride 2nd one had to file to fit and align bearing to get bolt through
Bike Setup:
s-works fsr
Bottom Line:
This is one great upgrade for any one with a fsr and rob at betd is the bolx, one of the few people who give a dam about mountain biking.The complete kit(link and horst link bearing)will bring your fsr to life like you would not believe making it so plush and with travel options you can't go wrong.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
guy wharton
a Cross Country Rider
from nottingham, england Date Reviewed: November 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Dark peak area
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
betd.co.uk
Strengths:
supple suspension with no bob, durable, inceased travel if you want it, sealed bearings, Rob at BETD is unbelievably helpful and will do one off jobs to solve particular problems
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Original FSR linkage
Bike Setup:
FSR comp XC with bomber Z1 Xfly lights, hope closed 2 pot pros
Bottom Line:
If you're pissed off with the FSR plastic bushings and their short lifespan, contact Rob.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SDbomber
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego Date Reviewed: October 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Nobel Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
www.BETD.co.uk
Strengths:
Quality, Quality, Quality. One look at the machining of this part, and you know you have something special, made just for your FSR.
Performance, Performance, Performance. Words cannot describe the new plush, smooth 6.3" of travel. Laterally feels much stiffer now, too. with the BETD Full roller bearing kit, it's like riding on a cloud...
Rob Lewis: someone who truly cares about his riders, and it shows. He sets the benchmark for quality customer service. He will answer all your questions, WITHOUT any attitude, then give you the single best product you could ever buy for your FSR.
Weaknesses:
What weaknesses??? If you strung some of these together, they would work as M-1 Tank tracks.
I thought it would compromise climbing ability; I was WRONG. It climbs as well as ever, the FSR design rules. I only used my lockout a few times at first, when I remembered to... now I realize I don't even need the lockout.
Similar Products Used:
Are there any?? My LBS tried to sell me on the Mountain Speed kit. I've heard the MS kit requires grinding the frame at the seatpost area (say bye-bye to your warranty); It only works on Large/X-large frames; will not work with your stock shock; Isn't as adjustable; it sells as a kit for $400+. AND it doesn't look nearly as good. No comparison. BETD is the hands-down winner.
Bike Setup:
custom FSR MaxBB, Z1CR, XTR, Kore B-52, bonty Crow bar, King HS, BETD 5"-6" long travel kit, Stratos Helix pro, Thomson, Mavic x317, Grimeca Sys8 front and rear.
Bottom Line:
If you've had your FSR a while, and are thinking about a new bike, you should really consider this instead. If you are lucky enough to find an FSR in good shape, build one up. Take an already great design, then kick it up about ten notches with Rob's link. It's a thing of beauty, AND it works.
I built up my new bike from scratch, and this link is one of the major reasons I went with the FSR MaxBBone design. In 3 minutes, I can switch from 4+" to 5+" to 6+" of travel depending on where I'm riding. Its the heart of the frame now. Worldcup Downhill travel, without the slack headtube angle makes for a very rideable, tuneable bike that can still climb well. The ultimate weekend warrior machine.
Also, the comfort is UNREAL. I've ridden 1-2 hours every day since I finished it. I used to ride 1-2 times a week. ...anybody wanna buy a couch?? cheap?
If you get this, you will love your 'new' bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary Puttock
a Weekend Warrior
from London, England Date Reviewed: October 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Coed-Y-Brenin
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
www.betd.co.uk
Strengths:
makes the rear end behave how you want. Super supple.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Orginal fitted to the bike
Bike Setup:
'99 FSR Comp, Z1-Xflys, Fox Air RC, Hope xc4, Easton carbon post and bars, XTR\XT, race Face stem, Sun discotec, Hope TI hubs.
Bottom Line:
Well the best thing you can by for your Specialized. Cannot believe the difference. Run it with a new Fox air RC at 5" and just do not feel anything through it. Makes the back end behave and complements the shock. The best upgrade you can make. For the money you will think you have new bike. As I said I run it with 4" X-flys at 5" this does raise the bottom bracket height slightly but that also is great as the original clearence left little to be desired and the Xfly counteract any negativity in the setup. Also Rob at BETD is a top fellow if more companys took a leaf out of his book the world would be nicer place!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Rosenberg
a Cross Country Rider
from Pompton Lakes, New Jersey Date Reviewed: October 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
www.BETD.CO.uk
Strengths:
Top Notch Quality, customer service
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
1999 FSR XC Comp-Not many original parts on it
Bottom Line:
An excellent upgrade to my bike. My rear tire is always on the ground, no bouncing around. I have the bearings and the long travel link too. I also upgraded to a 2000 Fox Float RC. The link is set for the least amount of travel. When I get a longer travel front fork I will increase the travel. The quality of the products are second to none. Rob at BETD is a great guy and he is willing to help you in any way that he can.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cory B
a Downhiller
from Iqaluit, Nunavut Canada Date Reviewed: September 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
everything on Baffin Island is a trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
Rob Lewis @ BETD
Strengths:
Super Strong and Beefy, Well made. Wicked looking. Works with stock rear shock. Adds tons of personality
Weaknesses:
pppfff, weaknesses?????
Similar Products Used:
Stock FSR Linage
Bike Setup:
99 FSR Extreme, 00'Z1 Dropoff, Blackspire Shock Tower, Nokian Gazzaloddi 3.0 front and Tioga 2.3 rear with custom parts too boot.
Bottom Line:
If you own the FSR frameset, you need this linkage, Plush as, well, use you imagination. Rob is cool, not one of those people who just wants to sell his product. A real Person, about time someone in the industry took the step.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: September 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Owyhees
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Rob@betd
Strengths:
BETD has two options...I went with the linkage that has 4, 5, & 6 inch travel settings (the other has 5 & 6). Well designed and constructed. The black ano looks cool too. The linkage allows you to use your own shock. In my case the stock Fox Vanilla R or an aftermarket replacement. Needle bearings in the pivot that connects the linkage to the frame, stock bushing in the rear. I also went with a needle bearing kit from BETD at the main pivot (next to the bb). With the BETD linkage set at 5 inches and a Marzocchi z1 CR with a 5 inch heavy spring installed, I now have a balanced bike that climbs well (for a 29 lb bike) and decends like a bomb.
Weaknesses:
Can't think of any except that it didn't come stock with the bike.
Similar Products Used:
Haven't tried the MSR products......didn't want to have to buy a new shock.
Bike Setup:
98 FSR Elite, Marzocchi z1 CR, Time Carbons, Race Face cranks, Thomson sp, Chris King headset & ft hub, xtr brakes, ft & rr derailleurs, cassette, r hub, mavic F519 rims, Easton Scandium dh bar, Titec stem, and a 950 lb spring for the Fox shock.
Bottom Line:
The FSR MAX BackBone frameset is overbuilt for the stock 3 3/4 inches of travel front and rear. The BETD FSR linkage allows you to take advantage of a stiff, strong frame and add travel to your bike with no shortcomings. I now have a FSR on steroids. Bunny hops are effortless and I look for things to jump off.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerome
a Weekend Warrior
from Quebec City, CANADA Date Reviewed: June 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lac des Roches, Charlesbourg
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Big, bad, indestructible, well-made, adds personality to your bike... Plus, Rob at BETD is one of the coolest, easiest-going, friendliest and helpful guy you'll ever meet in the MTB business.
Weaknesses:
What weaknesses ?
Similar Products Used:
Of course, none.
Bike Setup:
98' FSR Elite w/Stratos FR5 front (and lots of custom parts).
Bottom Line:
I started with the 6-inch setup to balance my front end which, with the Stratos FR-5 was a lil' more slack than stock. I feared that so much travel would be too much but you get used to it very fast and start enjoying your " new " bike almost instantly. My only advice is to change the spring, since the added leverage (especially in the 6-inch position) makes for a very soft rear end with the stock one. I went from a 800 lb with almost no preload to a 850 lb with a lot ofr preload but I still wish for a 900 lb (which is actually B/O at my LBS...). Apart from this, this is by all means one of the best investments you can make to get a lot more travel (around 50 % more) for not a lot of money. Plus, you'll have the chance to know Rob (rob@betd.co.uk) who is a helluva guy !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Orang County Date Reviewed: April 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Santiago Oaks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Easy to install and super plush I have a new bike! The linkage is set a the five inch mark right now and the travel seems endless it handles the large and the small hits much more active than the stock linkage. The Quality of the linkage is second to none Rob @ Betd takes care of You!
Weaknesses:
None Yet
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
FSR with Z1& Moutain speed bearing kit and Stratos Helix Pro shock.
Bottom Line:
If you own an FSR You need this Linkage Hands down one of the best up grade I have ever done, But if you are not into Long travel and a smooth ride don't buy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pup
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: December 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
911
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Easy to install SUPER plush travel Needle bearing at frame link; heavy duty shock bolt Works with your stock shock Avail in custom colors Reasonably priced!
Weaknesses:
Maybe 200g more than standard link You'll want to use a long travel fork (duh)
Similar Products Used:
FSR standard swing link
Bike Setup:
98 FSR Z1 stock Coupe Delux shock
Bottom Line:
Super handiwork! The machining is clean and sturdy, the tolerances are exact, installation is easy. Comes with teflon bushings for seatstay bolts, needle bearing for frame bolt and an extra-heavy-duty shock bolt so you dont bend it.Im using the 5 position right now; it pushes the head angle back up a little and evens out the travel against my Z1 (reduced to 4). Nice balanced travel, and levels position on bike out again so you dont feel that kicked-back chopper position so bad with a long fork. And it works with the original shock.Plusher than plush, like riding in a hammock. I like it!Rob at BETD is a very personable guy, and the link arrived from London in four days flat. Not bad! Five chilies for service, product quality and the ride.
Overall Rating:
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