The Banshee Scream comes in 4 sizes:
As you will notice these frames have fairly long top tubes and head tubes, to help coax you into a smaller size. If you're going to do a lot of pedaling and climbing to get where you want to go, get a bigger one. If you're dirt jump hucking and freeriding, get a smaller one.
Submitted by
Thomas Furjel
a Downhiller
from Topolcnay Slovakia Slovakia Date Reviewed: April 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
DH
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$9000.00
Strengths:
On 99.5% indistructible.Only weakness....rider.
Weaknesses:
Havent found them yet.
Bike Setup:
Frame: Banshee Scream Fork: Marzocchi Shiver DC Brakes:Hope M4 front and Magura Gustav M rear Rims: SunRims S-Type front and 24 inch Doule track rear Stem: Marzocchi for Monster Shiver and Super/Junior T Derailleur: Sram x9 Shifter: Sram x9 Chainguide: Truvativ BoxGuide Spokes: DT Swiss Hubs: Marzocchi front and Banshee factory rear Rear Shock: Marzocchi Roco RC Cranks: Truvativ Husefelt Bottom Bracket: Truvativ Hovitzer XR
Bottom Line:
This is the probably strongest frame on planet(not homemade tank).If u want to go big you can count on it.It will never let u down.It is so much fun riding this bike.It doesnt matter it weights so much.You will be heathier :).I think that this is the frame for those who want to have some fun in woods,dirts...probably anywere u take it.And now for those who want to win the DH wold cup...there is plenty of lighter frames but if u want to have a lot of fun,go for Banshee Scream.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Burk
a Weekend Warrior
from Lakeland Fl. USA ! Date Reviewed: July 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
all of em!
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Now out of business.
Strengths:
Indestructable frame! Solid and Heavy.
Weaknesses:
Solid and heavy.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing else like it!
Bike Setup:
Shimano xt fr. and rr. Kenda front Specialized rear. WTB freeride seat. Serial Killa head. Truvativ gigapipe DH BB. Truvativ Hussefelt cranks. Azonic a-frame platform pedals. Rockshoxx Race Triple clamp front end. 26" (in place of stock 24" rear wheel) Mag 30 rear wheel. Specialized Big Hit rear Hub. Formula front hub. Hayes 9" Hydro-discs fr. and rr. Shimano Trigger shifters. Iron Cross grips. 90mm stem to stretch the cockpit for better off the seat (as well as seated), climbing ability.
Bottom Line:
Almost four years on this bike. Only the "components" have failed. Same frame, Same set of bearings still functioning as designed. Took about a year to build up the stamina and leg / lung power it takes to make this thing go. There area a lot of bikes out there..but this one is certainly the most "fun" to ride! And the bonus is a killer workout built in to every ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler
a Downhiller
from Colorado Date Reviewed: June 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
1600.00
Strengths:
Smooth operation Strong Strong 10 year warranty (means it durrable) sexy strong
Weaknesses:
nothing yet
Similar Products Used:
vp free
Bottom Line:
Nothing better for freeride but also is one of the best dh bikes i have ever ridden Perfect operation and you never have to worry about breaking it because you cant but even if you do you got a better warranty than on on a car
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Nighthawk
a Weekend Warrior
from Lakeland Fl. USA ! Date Reviewed: March 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
ALAFIA AND CARTER
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Strengths:
Durable! Indestructible a two wheeled Hum-Vee.
Weaknesses:
A two wheeled Hum-Vee! (but tons of fun!)
Similar Products Used:
nothing else like it.
Bike Setup:
Set up for extremely aggressive trail riding. replaced 24" rear with the 26".(intense mag 30). heavier rear coil spring. dailed in forks (Roxx Shocks Race). 2.8 wide front tire, (kenda kinetics) 2.5 wide rear.(Specialized Roller, very soft).
Bottom Line:
4 yrs on this bike now. Same (original)bearings in all positions. (And this bike does NOT sit idle.) Gone through 3 bottom brackets, 6 sets of pedals (go with Azonic!) Chain and cogs set , (two rear to one front). Still strong and true! A real tank, not a trail racer by any means! You will not go fast..but you will go! Anywhere you point it! Will work you hard on the climbs! They say you cant turn a freeride bike into a trail bike...Funny, but Ive been doing it for 4 years now, and just refuse to play bt "their" rules. Of course I made some custom adjustments
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff Bayldon
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne Victoria Australia Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
at the moment the abandoned quarry in hallam
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Dbike
Strengths:
Ergonomically perfect, it feels like my Scratch with big wheels. Adjustability, low bb for better DH cornering or high for dirt jump or freeride and if you shorten the wheelbase it manuals like a BMX. Burl, by far the most over-engineered piece of freeride machinery on the market, I mean you don't stand on top of a cliff with a Scream and ask yourself "will the bike take it?" And god damn dose the Josh Bender edition look sweet. I tip my hat to the boys at Banshee
Weaknesses:
Ha ha ha ha haaaaa! Ooooooooh Haa Haa ha ha ha ha haaaa! (chuckle chuckle) ha ha haa... Oh your serious? thats even funnier!
Similar Products Used:
Had a Stinky Dee-Lux and various Norcos but I've ridden just about everything
Bike Setup:
888's, Mag 30's, Hayes, Dice, Truvativ, Sram
Bottom Line:
Everything else is a toy!
Dropped six feet, didn't feel it. Dropped twelve feet, didn't feel it. When i get the balls to drop twenty four I'll let you know but the bike sure as hell isn't stopping me.
The weight thing is crap. I mean its about the same weight as my mates Demo 9.
Ignore the review by the guy who was unable to set up the bike and look at all the other satisfied customers.
If your looking for the last bike you'll ever buy than this is it. If your looking for excuses than ride XC
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
james g
a Downhiller
from ottawa Date Reviewed: January 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
anything super hardcore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
cyclesmith
Strengths:
extremely dominant, good for downhill, it makes it easier to say your better then some ome else
Weaknesses:
a bit to heavy for my weak bone structure
Similar Products Used:
devinci ollie
Bike Setup:
888, sun rims , hayes 8 inche , easton bars
Bottom Line:
better than anything jarek will ever have
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
EDDIE BURK
a Weekend Warrior
from LAKELAND, FLA. USA! Date Reviewed: January 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
ALL DIRT!
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
B.C.I.
Strengths:
INDESTRUCTABLE!
Weaknesses:
NONE FOR ME!
Similar Products Used:
NOTHING ELSE LIKE IT!
Bike Setup:
XT DERAILEURS, XT HUBS, HAYES 9" HYDROS. SERIAL KILLA HEAD. INTENSE MAG 30 REAR WHEEL WITH DT SWISS STAINLESS SPOKES. TRUVATIV GIGAPIPE DH BB. CAT EYE ODOMETER/SPEEDO. KENDA 3"FRONT TIRE, SPECIALIZED ROLLER REAR TIRE. GUNMETAL PAINT. HOME MADE FENDER KIT (MY OWN CUSTOM CREATION).
Bottom Line:
I WANTED SOMETHING TOUGH AND HEAVY! I GOT PLENTY OF BOTH!!! 2 YRS ON THIS BIKE NOW, AND NOW THAT I HAVE DEVELOPED THE LEGS AND LUNGS TO PROPERLY POWER IT...I HAVE UPGRADED EVERTHING AS TIME WORE THEM OUT. KINDA BORING THOUGH..NO PROBLEMS TO TALK ABOUT! SO, IM GOING RIDING! LATER!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad Tamas
a Weekend Warrior
from kamloops,b.c,canada Date Reviewed: November 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
mount 7 10 km , golden b.c / tied with rose hill kamloops
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
pink bike
Strengths:
everything its so fricken beefey . like dahm any one who doesnt think so is retarded . ps norco sucks
Weaknesses:
the rear deraler cable blows out . ive gone threw alot of them
Similar Products Used:
norco aline, santa cruz bullit, kona stuff, kona stinky , norco rampage
Bike Setup:
med frame 03 jr t , funn fatboy slim bars , 24 rear mag 30 , 26 mavic 321 , maxxis high rolers , truvitive crank, avid mechanical 8 inch roaters
Bottom Line:
this bike is awsome it does everyhting and the weight isnt that bad mines only 42 pounds , sure the frame weighs 13 pounds compared to a karpiel armegedon witch is 10 pounds but the pos would brake . bender rides one of these bikes nad he still hasent broke it . i havent ever herd of any brake but who cares warrantee kicks ass on theses things. i cant buy a diff bike now cuz i love mine to much . likke its just awsome i love it . is it wrong ot give want to give ur bike a hug , not when its a banshee . norco sucks buy a banshee for freeride u will love it . ps banshee rules
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
danny boy
a Downhiller
from weare, nh, usa Date Reviewed: September 29, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
goodailes
Strengths:
the best bike out there if you are a rough one. i have had m fair share of biek that had to be worked on everytime you take it out. but this thing you will never need to thouch
Weaknesses:
no a one. some may say its heavy. but if you are woried about that go back inside and play video games. biking is a work out and you will get on if you are a ride that needs this frame
Similar Products Used:
speacalized bighit
Bike Setup:
frame-banshee scream fork-marzocchi monster t wheels-halo sas rear shock-progressive 5th element breaks- Hayes hfx-9 handle bar-azonic ultra cross seat-azonic love seat chain guide- mrp mini me/ flawless cranks- travite husfet pedals- sun ringle stem- race face diablo tires- maxxis drive train- xt grips- intence lock jaw
Bottom Line:
if you love to ride your bike and love to go big then go out there and pick one of these up and you will never look back to what you had. you will be doing 90mph in the right direction
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jody
a
from Victoria, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: August 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
2250 Cdn.
Strengths:
2004 - big and burly, fixed weak spots of 2003 Frame. - Been riding a scream for almost a year now, and still have to admit, most fun and versatile bike I have ever rode!!! - 10 year warranty. - Based in Vancouver - Specifically designed for Freeriding (Though I\'m still passing everyone at Whistler, didn' t know the medium size could go so fast.) - 16.75" chainstay ability.
Weaknesses:
No ability to shift derailleur forward or back with the 3 rear axle positions. That's okay, I only use 1st and 2nd anyways, so not really that big a deal. Find the 3 position just too long for freeride.
Similar Products Used:
Everything, this is probably my 20th bike.
Bike Setup:
02 Monsters, Hope Mono M4s, Hadleys, etc...
Bottom Line:
If you FreeRide. Get one. Best FreeRide bike on the market. Period.
All I can say is a BIG FAT THANKS to Banshee Bikes for warranty of my 2003 and uping me to a 2004. Cracked the front and rear triangles of the 2003, and they warrantied my with a 2004.
Kiddies, if you want a big fat frame for 2004 and beyond, get the Scream, I promise you it will not dissapoint you. Friends try mine and are SOLD!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geno
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort Polk, LA, USA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Adrenaline Bikes
Strengths:
Awesome welds and attention to detail. Strength beyond words to describe. Huge headtube and Chainstays
Weaknesses:
What you are joking right?
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinky
Bike Setup:
Super T pro, 5th Element, Chris King ISO laced to Mavic 321 (built by Gravvy!)
Bottom Line:
Alright bottom line....When you were a kid dreaming about a bike that would do all the things you wanted, well this is the one. Its huge and heavy. If you have the legs and lungs you can climb anything. Going down? Well this baby well crush ANY obstacle. Drop offs and chutes? Time to stand up and tell em you are my Beeotch!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LONDON GEEZER GEEZER
a Weekend Warrior
from PLANET EARTH Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
PLANET EARTH
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
A PAL OF MINE
Strengths:
"SUPER-DOOPER BAD-ASS HARD-CORE RIG"
Weaknesses:
NONE!!
Similar Products Used:
A FEW OTHER RIGS!
Bike Setup:
READY TO RIP!
Bottom Line:
WELL WHAT CAN I SAY BUT...THIS RIG IS MADE FOR "RIPPIN THE PLANET", SO....TIM L. I DONT KNOW WHAT YOURE TALKING ABOUT; I BET YOU DONT EVEN HAVE A BIKE MATE,OR YOU SPEND ALL YOURE TIME IN FRONT OF THE TV (SAD MAN!!)TO ALL THE "REAL TROOPERS"OUT THERE,"RIP_HARD" AND DONT LISTERN TO "PLUMS" LIKE MR;(TINY)TIM.L.
Well, it's been 6 months since my last review of this bike. I've now had it for a year.
The only weakness that I can think of is the weight. I went with some lighter wheels after my first set of rims blew up and this dropped a few pounds. It really made a huge difference in the percieved weight of the bike though. The bike is feeling just about perfect now at 43lbs.
Predictibly, nothing on the frame has gone wrong. The headtube, pivot bearings, suspension bolts, and frame materials are all really bombproof so I don't foresee any problems arising anytime in the next decade or so.
There were a few set up changes that I made that I feel really make the feel more dialed for DH type riding. I lengthened out the adustable chainstays a bit past 17", went with a lower rise handle bar, and traded out the rear spring for a lighter one.
I'm still totally stoked on the bike. The frame itself is really over engineered, so there's nothing worth worrying about there. The only real questions you need to figure out when looking at buying this bike is what parts will work the best for you, and then getting everything dialed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Thomas
a Downhiller
from Prince George B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: February 10, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Anything with big drops
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2900.00
Purchased At:
MB Racing
Strengths:
Man I don't know what you could say is not strong on this bike. It is absolutely indestructible. Componentry is of very good quality as well.
Weaknesses:
Ummm......... I don't think that there is really anything that could be called weak about this bike. It is so tough. Only downside is the weight but hey, it isn't going to break.
Similar Products Used:
I have ridden lots of fs bikes as I work at a bike shop. Cannondales, Jamis, Da Bomb, etc. Nothing compares in my mind to a Banshee.
Bike Setup:
The way this bike is setup is totally cool for the way it rides. Even though my bike weighs over 50lbs I can pedal up hills that I couldn't on my VPS. It is a super efficient pedaling machine. The suspension setup is very well designed as well. There is barely any bob to rob you of that much needed pedal power when it counts.
Bottom Line:
For the price of the bike I couldn't belive how tough that it all is. I am not a gentle rider by any means. I have thrown this bike off of houses(with me on it) and it totally soaks up anything that I can dish or ever will dish out. If you break bikes or just can't find something that you don't trust on those big drops, GET A SCREAM. You can't go wrong with this bike. I luv it so much that I'm getting a '04 model this year and have two.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Nighthawk
a Cross Country Rider
from Lakeland Fla. U.S.A. Date Reviewed: January 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
B.C.I.
Strengths:
Everything! One tough machine!!!!
Weaknesses:
Try to find one...........
Bike Setup:
Stock Journeyman package..with bottom bracket up-graded to a Truvativ Gigapipe splined.
Bottom Line:
One year on this bike now. Except for the bottom bracket upgrade, and a few bent pedals(rider error), no problems to report! Have put this machine through its paces. I ride like a man with sox on fire! Cant say enough positive about this bike! If you want a tough heavy, 44lbs.(but the weight is barely noticeable)reliable bike. Buy It. Contact the guys at Banshee, and be ready to be amazed at the attention they will give you! Very helpful bunch of guys! Just try to contact any other bike mfgs Designers,,and good luck! This bike is a huge attention grabber...I get questions and compliments from someone every time I ride. This is the closest you will get to a four wheel drive two wheeler. Ride over anything!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JP
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria Date Reviewed: December 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Whistler
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Russ Hays / Banshee in North Van
Strengths:
Big beefie frame, fat horizontal dropout. Killer Free ride machine. Ummmm... 10 year warranty. Due to this bike, finally got the manual down... only took 32 years ;0) Pedals lighter then it feels. Can run 2 chainrings w/ derailleur.
Weaknesses:
Suggested Cable routing doesn't work. 6" rotor on back makes brake-jack feel funky. Getting an 8" rotor seemed to help.
Similar Products Used:
Balfa BB7, Norco VPS.
Bike Setup:
Shivers, 24" rear, 8 " Hydros
Bottom Line:
Get this bike if you are tough on bikes. Get this bike if you like free riding. Get this bike if you like to pedal. Get this bike if you like jumping. Get this bike if you love riding. Get this bike if you love trials. Get this bike if you want 10 year warranty.
Don't get this bike if you race downhill (Buy my BB7 instead). Don't get this bike if you decide not to go with the 5th Element option. Don't get this bike if you... can't think of anything else.
GET THIS BIKE! If you don't, you are nutzo. Most fun bike I have ever owned! Will make you an instant super star.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Dick
a Downhiller
from California Date Reviewed: December 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anything steep
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
a bike shop
Strengths:
evrything
Weaknesses:
nothing
Bike Setup:
totaly stock 03
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for downhillers and/or freeriders. I did a 15 foot drop the other day and this bike soaked up the landing like a sponge. I fall a lot and i havent changed a part on this bike yet, except the bars. I love this bike, If someone offered me a million bucks for this bike, i wouldnt sell it... maybe i would for that much money, but thats not my point. If you dont buy htis bike your crazy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Branden Lawson
a Weekend Warrior
from Fair Oaks, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything With Huge Drops
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1175.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Emporium-Auburn, CA
Strengths:
This frame is extremely heavy duty in all areas, not just in the key areas like other bikes.The main bearings are huge, and all the other bearings on the linkage are standard skateboard bearings. This bike is clearly ment the be beat. I am a person that destroys parts and frames, I have broke my RM7 3 times, snapped the headtube clean off my New Jack Flash, and cracked the head tube on my 2003 Le Toy 3 (not so unbreakable, is it). I ride the hell out of the Banshee, and I've only had slight issues.
Weaknesses:
I ride a medium frame and originally I set the cables up for the rear brake and derailler as Banshee sugested, and I pinched my hydro line and gear cable. I fixed this by roughting the cables like the kona stab does.
Similar Products Used:
Rm7
Bike Setup:
2003 Medium Scream frame, 2003 Monster T, FSA Pounder cranks, Evil guide, Intense Mag 30 rims, Gazz 3.0 Front, Intense 909 Rear, Hayes HFX-9 Brakes, and a few other random goodies. My bike weighs 56 lbs and plows everything, and will survive anything (to a point). The main lesson I've learned about bikes is that it will break no matter how big or bad, but at least with Banshee you have a 10 year warranty.
Bottom Line:
Buy this frame if you are hard on bikes, the perfect canidate for this bike is someone that is expecting their bikes to break and they're always looking for weak spots. Luckily on this bike you won't find any weak spots and will most likely have a frame that lasts a long time. I haven't had a frame last more than three months and I think this is a frame that will.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob cole
a Downhiller
from London, England Date Reviewed: October 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
esher shore
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Freeborn Bikes Esher
Strengths:
Very strong frame Great suspension system for freeriding Sweetest geometry i've yet ridden Well finished Rides really light for heavy bike Great spares package
Weaknesses:
*suspension seems to squat a little under high pedalling load (like going over peak of ladder trail) *paint is a bit flimsy *cable routing not ideal *difficult to setup *cr&ppy telescopic seatpost
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Big Hit DH 2002 ridden RM7, V-10, M1, Bullit, etc.
Bike Setup:
03 Super T Pro, Sun Singletrack 26" on Hope 20mm bulb, Sun Doubletrack on Gusset Jury 12mm/10mm bolt up, DMR Chieftan Mk2 cromoly cranks and Gusset chaindisc 38T, 11-30T XT 8 speed cassette, XT shifter, XT mech, Mr. Dirt Gizmo ISCG chain device, Nokian Gazz 2.6" tires and tubes, Race Face Diablous 31,8 bars and Diablous 30,0 seatpost, Marzocchi 55/67mm integrated stem, ODI lock-ons, Hayes HFX-Mag 8", etc.
Bottom Line:
amazing!
having ridden a big hit for 1.5 years, loved the big hit but was finding it a little too tall on the skinnys (even though i'm 5'11" and riding a medium), the front end was too high with the long head tube and the frame was getting tired after lots of hucking abuse...
...wasn't sure about going from 4-bar to "faux-bar" (i.e. no horst pivot but pivots on seatstays) well i need not have worried it works a treat. theres a little squat if you're going up and over a steep peak on a skinny trail compared to the Big Hit which felt "mushy" at low speed but always found traction. the Scream doesn't feel like its lifting but it doesn't get the same traction...well the bikes is for me to go DOWN not up so its a tiny negative. the brake jacking thing hasn't been a problem despite big Spec's constant advertisign about the superiority of the FSR? i could't feel any chain tugging either, the pivot is in the perfect location for the power take off point on a 38T chainring so it pedals quite neutral.
the pedalling is better than the big hit, it doesn't have the soft mushy feel of the big hit but goes forward quicker which is good because it weighs 50lb compared to big hit at 46lb with same parts (only changed the seatpost). on the high skinnys it feels great, on drops it feels really good the rear is SO progressive on the shortest wheelbase setting. i'm running it with 24" rear and it works great for our local "shore" type riding and play riding
easiest bike i've ever had to manual roll on...top tube is MUCH shorter than my Big hit which gives me more control and the frame feels smaller and more flickable despite it being heavier.
10 year warranty, lovely easton northshore tubing, great CNC work really tough frame parts (dropouts!!!).
it takes time to setup. you need to convert your shimano hub to the solid axle, i had a Gusset Jurt trials hub from my Big Hit with solid 12mm axle machined to 10mm on dropout flats works a treat!
cable routing is a bit worrying, read some reviews criticising it but you can experiement with tape and cable ties so its not all bad
my best riding bike yet and looks the b*llocks! peoples jaws hang open and riders HAVE to come talk to me and dribble over the bike..lol
at last don't feel shame of riding corporate brand (had black tape on Big Hit logos)...
cheap too for "boutique" brand..only GBP£1100 compared to "budget" Spec Big Hit GBP £750, Orange 222 GBP£1300, Intense M-1 GBP£2500
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Nighthawk
a
from Lakeland, Fla. USA Date Reviewed: October 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
all of em'
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
BCI
Strengths:
Everything! One tough assed bike !!
Weaknesses:
None relly worth mentioning. Anything negative anyone could say would only amount to a matter of personal opinion.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fischer Joshua f-4, (a long outdated design!) . Klien, Trek Feul.
Bike Setup:
Bone Stock ...Journeyman Package
Bottom Line:
over 500 hard miles on this bike and not one real complaint. A few bent pedals, one broken brake line (firewood strike) And Tons of fun! Absolutely the best 2 wheels Ive ever slung a leg over.! This bike has proven to be very tough and reliable! The stock bottom bracket has just been replaced with a Truvativ DH Gigapipe. (slightly wider) And has provided a much better chain line match than did the stock setup. Smoother shifting now, If that was possible...never any real problems shifting. But now its like an automatic transmission. I use this bike for mainly trail riding and the phosphate pits here in Florida. Also own a 2003 Giant Iguana which has been totally upgraded from stock, but has been relegated to my backup bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Enlaverdad Untipoblanco
a Downhiller
from the BCG at the BYC Date Reviewed: October 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
GMG
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2679.00
Strengths:
Pippin is a cool guy (owner). Give Banshee headquarters a call on the North Shore and he picks up the phone. I like that in a bike company.
The bike has GREAT North Shore geometry.
High quality construction. Excellent welds and beautiful machine work.
Great warranty and warranty service.
Weaknesses:
Hmm.
Similar Products Used:
Demo 9 (knockoff!)
Bottom Line:
Great bike. I have yet to find something I don't love about it.
For a lot of the riders out there (ya you know who you are), this is the only bike made that is going to hold up in the long run.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AKRida
a Downhiller
from pg Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
frame is insanely strong, virtually unbreakable, has a great Warantee.
Buy this bike if you want a reliable, Unbreakable, Burly bike, that you will never have to worry about if your bike can handle the drop. it's got a 10 year warranty so you dont have to worry about it wearing out, or stressing. my bike weighs in at 46.2 pounds but pedals alot better than it's weight. If you want a durable bighit bike this is the one for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Favreau
a Downhiller
from Vegas (baby) Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Sasquatch
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
-Stiff -Good rear suspension design-progressive with very little chaingrowth (no ghostshifting) -Freeride geometry to a T- Super nimble thanks to the short wheelbase, freeride head and seat tube angles (steeper than DH), and small frame sizes. Seat angle that is still comfortable on the Fromme climb. -I especially love: The "Keggar" head tube. Ridiculously thick head tube eliminates even the slightest possiblity of ever even pondering ovalizing a headtube again. Also provides a large surface area to make stronger welds on the down and top tubes. Icing on the cake is that the tubes are Easton Rad and there is a huge gusset to back up the back at this critical junction. Nice engineering! Only from a designer on the North Shore.
Weaknesses:
The bike becomes very very progressive as you move the rear wheel to it's shortest wheelbase positions. It becomes so progressive that it even begins to rebound slowly and this really hurts the performance at full speed on the small hits. It becomes sort of a Josh Bender bike, designed to survive stoopid big drop without bucking the rider or breaking the bike, but it's a trade off.
On the up side, as the wheel is moved further back in the longer wheelbase positions the rebound gets quicker. The ride also gets more stable, though it's slightly less nimble in the really tight stuff.
Similar Products Used:
The Scream is very different from the rest of the offerings on the market right now. RM-7 feels slightly similar, Kona Stinky feels totally different, Norco Shore rides kind of like it a little bit. The Demo 9 from Specialized looks like it might be up the same alley.
Bike Setup:
Measurments I've taken for my 16" frame with current set up (26" wheel, 7" Super-T): 15" BB height, 43.9" wheelbase, 67 degree headangle, 22.8" level top tube, 29" standover max, 31" realistcally. 16" is perfect for a me, 5'10" rider. 800lb spring on Fox also feels perfect, weigh 180lb. Total bike weight on my cheapo scale: 43lbs. Frame and shock: 13lbs. (Build is with Laserdisc DH wheels, XC saddle, FSA v-drive cranks, 2.5 Maxxis tires, etc) The Turner DHR, and Santa Cruz V10 also weighed 13lbs on my scale
Bottom Line:
Undoubtedly the best freeride bike on the market.
The only thing you need to know is that the bike is tricky to set up. The set up that I liked the best when I bought the bike on the Shore was a 24" rear wheel in the short setting (about 16.7") with a Super-T (7") front fork. I am no longer living on the Shore. I found that my old set up sucked on the terrain I'm riding now.
On faster terrain the bike was totally out of control with the short wheelbase set up. I have now switched to a 26" rear wheel, set at 17.1" (from BB) back in the dropouts. The bike is still nimble, but a lot more stable. Also the rear suspension reacts faster on the small stuff, but is still progressive enough on the big hits.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pekka Alasuutari
a Weekend Warrior
from Rovaniemi, Finland Date Reviewed: October 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Mäntyvaara to Lehtojärvi
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Purchased At:
R-Tech suspensions
Strengths:
Bomb proof, looks rad, gives you a total body workout when riding it all day long.
Weaknesses:
Jorneyman package sucked pretty good. You should be smarter and go for the Gucci. Tight rearwheel clearense when trying to run shorter wheelbases on 2,6wheel. I hate the stupid logo.. Hayes cables are weak(have broken 2 and they are very expensive). Needs alternative rear cable routing(outside the swingarm). Kenda tyres are ok only if they could make them straight. Single track rims are ok only if they would stay straight(pour wheel build?). Pedals, or one of them broke after 3 rides. If your a shy dude like I am you will probably hate the attention it gets when pedaling in the city. Takes time to get it tuned in. I bought the 2003 bike but there still reads 2002 on the frame.
Similar Products Used:
None...
Bike Setup:
Jorneyman,. Super T Pro, Vanilla R, Hfx-9, Black Spire DS-1, Single Track&Kenda 2.6 front, Mavic 321&Nokia Gazzaloddi2.6 rear, Shimano XT short gauge, PedalPro Flatpedals
Bottom Line:
Good frame. Banshee should only be sold with the best parts avaible. When you want a strong if not the strongest frame look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hobit
a Downhiller
from Prag Czech Republic Date Reviewed: October 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Dookie
Strengths:
Super strong, good in every detail, solid. Very sweat drop and air machine but surprisingly good uphiler :) Vannila RC :) Super tough Kegger headtube. Feels like BMX in air - its not a downhiller its freerider! Its first really freeride bike on market. It looks heavy, yes its heavy but it feels light. And its cheap. I dont believe on 10yr warranty but it could be plus.
Weaknesses:
Paint is comin down veryquickly Its heavy if you goin uphill. Idont like banshee logos. You cant get the seat down - the stayyoke will crash the seat :(
Scream03 with VannilaRC, JR.T02, Hayes, Easton bars, Nokian gazza2.3
Bottom Line:
Its for every rider who like dirtjump drops gaps. Its not a proffesional dh bike but i think its a proffesional freeride. Its heavy fullsuspension bike and dirjump ht in one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jw boucher
a
from St. Paul, MN, USA Date Reviewed: September 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Test of Metal
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
This is actually a review for Banshee's new Chaparral frame/bike. I had no place to place my review. The Chaparral is a 5 or 6" travel bike. Still built to take it. Frame wieghed 9 lbs without shock. I had a test bike for a few days. Color. It is a dark metallic grey.
Weaknesses:
Couldn't find anything major flaws with it in the few days I had it. If I have to nit pick, the frame won't allow any rear tire larger than a 2.5". That isn't a big deal to me, but to some it might. Also, the frt triangle has no bottle mounts. Again, not a big deal, but I live in the MN and need to ride at night for several months of the year. I like to have both a bottle/bar light and a helmet light.
Similar Products Used:
I have ridden lots of freeride bikes and owned (or own) several including Santa Cruz, Intense, Titus, & Rocky Mtn.
Bike Setup:
Psylo SL fork, new SRAM X.9 drivetrain, Hayes brakes, Mavic F219's & a few race face bits.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. You can set it up with an air shock at 4 or 5 inch or use a coil at 5 or 6" I rode it with a Romic coil shock in the 6" mode with the Psylo set at 120mm. It can be an epic XC bike or set it up with a Z150 or dual crown fork for freeride. The frame certainly can take it. I plan to purchase one in a different size and set it up as a freeride bike to replace my old RM-6.
The other cool thing is that many mfgs are missing the boat and building cool bikes that are not dual or triple ring compatible. The Banshee Chap' uses a standard shimano non top swing front mech, so you have your choice of Deore thru XTR. C'mon Mfg's. We need to ride these things uphill.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Weekend Warrior
from Zurich,Switzerland Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Lenzerheide
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Hibike
Strengths:
Indestructible, smooth and good looking
Weaknesses:
Nothing so far
Similar Products Used:
No one like this
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Dirtjumper I, Fox Vanilla RC, Shimano XTR/XT, Magura Louise FR, Huegi FR, DMR,.....
Bottom Line:
I haven't ridden it so many times yet, but it just feels supersmooth and it takes any trail, even uphill! Don't worry about the weight, because it feels much lighter when you ride it. I highly recommend this bike for any downhiller/freerider!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean
a Downhiller
from Sherman Oaks Date Reviewed: August 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Helens Cycles, Santa Monica
Strengths:
Everything! I have never been on a bike that 'Screams' to drop everything...!! The reviews below are correct. When you get on this bike it feels about 10 lbs lighter than its actual weight. I got mine down to 45.5 lbs, which isn't too bad. The 5th Element rear shock is unreal. Takes some time to dial it in. But, once you figure it out, it's SMOOTH riding...
Weaknesses:
Need to mess with the cable rfvsdouting in the rear. Have folded a couple sets of dr and brake cables.. Once you figure it out, no problem
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC, Stinky Deluxe, Turner RFX
Bike Setup:
Mavic UST 3.1 wheels laced to DT Swiss hubs Hayes hydros w/8" rotors XTR front and XT rear dr Marzocchi SuperT Pro Shimano 646 platform pedals Maxxis Minion 2.7/2.5 RaceFace Northshore Evil DRS chainguide
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike!! I have gained much confidence while I've had the Scream. Every jump/section of trail that used to keep me on my toes are now a cake-walk for me. For someone who breaks a lot of equipment and doesn't want to ever break a frame again, buy the Scream. You will not be sorry!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cooper Flynn
a Downhiller
from Salt Lake City, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: August 15, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1730.00
Purchased At:
Pro Deal
Strengths:
Super Strong Frame 10 year Warrantee BMX Cranks Optional BMX style bolt on rear axel Full FSA components, Bars, Headset, Stem. Hayes full hydro disk brakes 8" disk brake rotors Full XT drivetrain: XT Short cage Rear derail Uninterrupted seatpost unlike the FSR 4 bar link bikes No Noticeable Peddle bob
CUSTOMER SERVICE: My emails to the owner of Banshee were replied to within 30 min at 1 AM! The only bike company where you can call the one of the owners and ask them a question about their bikes.
The Gucci package is the best deal I have seen anywhere on any site. Stock it comes tricked out with the best parts!
Weaknesses:
This beast set up with the Gucci and a Super T weighs in at 51 LBS.
The paint could be a little better, it does chip easily. Make sure before Downhilling put a Downtube guard on, the Maxxis Tires really throw rocks onto the the downtube.
Other than the minor weight and paint issues I haven't found any.
Fork: Marzocchi Super T Rear Shock: Fox Vanilla RC Headset: FSA PIG Handle Bar: FSA DH-400C 50MM RISE Stem: Marzocchi Super T Intagraded Stem Grips: ODI Lockons Saddle: VELO VL-1071 Brake Front: HAYES HYDRAULIC HFX HD 8" ROTOR Brake Rear: HAYES HYDRAULIC HFX HD 8" ROTOR Brake Levers: HAYES HFX MAG Bottom Bracket: FSA X-DRIVE EXTREME Rim Front: SUN DOUBLE TRACK 26" 36H Rim Rear: SUN DOUBLE TRACK 24" 36H Spokes: STAINLESS 14G Front Hub: FORMULA DH/DC91 DISC 36 Rear Hub: SHIMANO DEORE XT DISC 36 Front Tire: MAXXIS HIGH ROLLER 26 X 2.5 Rear Tire: MAXXIS HIGH ROLLER 24 X 2.7 Crankset: FSA X-DRIVE EXTREME W/B Shift Lever Rear: SHIMANO DEORE XT Shift Lever Front: SHIMANO DEORE XT Front Derailleur: SHIMANO DEORE LX Rear Derailleur: SHIMANO DEORE XT Cassette: SHIMANO DEORE LX 11/34 Pedals: WELLGO WAM-B37 PLATFORM Chain: SRAM W/QUICK LINK Seatpost: PRAXYS TELESCOPIC 7075 Seatpost Clamp: KALLOY XC-63 QR
Bottom Line:
This is a Killer all around bike! Great for Downhill, can keep up on the XC climbs, great dirt jumper, and great for urban.
This is by far the best deal in DH and freeride bikes I have ever seen.
Seatpost: PRAXYS TELESCOPIC 7075: This seatpost is the best I have ever ridden or seen. It is telescopic so it can go twice as high as a normal seat post. It looks just like a regualar seat post but has an extra quick release in the middle and raises it twice as high. WHEN AT MAX HEIGHT IN FRAME IT IS 17" ABOVE THE FRAME!
Pedals: WELLGO WAM-B37 PLATFORM: These things are great! They have 10 replaceable pins per side, they have the best grip of any peddle I have ever used. They are on par with peddles twice to three times as much. A guy I work with rides $60 peddles and after riding mine hes getting a pair of Wellgo's for half the price.
Crankset: FSA X-DRIVE EXTREME W/B: This is a super strong monster of a crank. They are BMX style cranks and bottom bracket. Much stronger than a MTB BB. The FSA BB has 30 something splines where a MTB BB has 4 to about 6 splines.
Rear/front Tire: MAXXIS HIGH ROLLER: These things roll better than any other tire I have ever used. I went down a paved mountain road with my XC buddy he rides 1.9/2.1" tires at 50 PSI. He had trouble keeping up with me. There is a down side they wear VERY fast.
Rim Rear/Front: SUN DOUBLE TRACK: These things are super strong! And fairly light. In Kranked 5 Super T takes an at least 30' road gap drop and lands sideways rips all the spokes off his wheel, but his Double Track doesn't look even out of true.
Brake Front/Rear: HAYES HYDRAULIC HFX HD 8" ROTOR: This is a great disk brake! I used the Magura line on my XC bike and they suck, they constantly leaked and were not good at all. The Hayes are 100 times better! They have super good stopping power, and are very easy to bleed.
Handle Bar: FSA DH-400C 50MM RISE: These things are huge! They have no flex even on big stuff.
Rear Shock: Fox Vanilla RC: This is a great rear shock; I like it because it doesn't have all the adjustments like the 5th element. I didn't have to touch it out of the box w/ a 800 lb spring, it works great for my weight (185 LBS).
Headset: FSA PIG: The Pig Series is great; maybe a Pig Pro or DH would be better. But I doubt it will ever brake.
Everything I didn't comment on is not that major like the seat and the XT drivetrain speaks for its self.
DOWNHILL TRAILS: This thing Screams! Super fast on the smooth trails and can take the super tech trails with ease. After getting the Scream I was hitting all the jumps, drops and floaters on the trails with ease. It also gave me the courage to get air of things I used to role.
ROAD RIDING: The Scream surprisingly is very fast on the road, I can go the same speed as my friends on XC bikes. It's no road bike but on steep MT roads it goes faster than any biker I'm riding with and with no peddle bob its great on flats too.
XC RIDING: Yesterday I took my scream up to a XC trail with my fiend riding a Specialized Rockhopper, he had triple ring and clipless shoes. The trail has 3 miles uphill all at once, and pretty steep in parts. I could keep my friend in view the whole time. It did great for a 51 LB bike, then we ate lunch at the top and came down the same trail I hit 32 MPH in places.
TRIALS RIDING: Don't even think about it. :) No, it hops well I could hop my hardtail about 2’ I can hop the Scream a bit over 1’ it just takes some time getting used to and you have to use the suspension to your advantage. It takes wheelie drops well and I can pogo it.
DIRT JUMPING: The Scream is great on dirt jumps, I hit jumps from 5' gaps to 15' step down tables and handled them much better than my P.3.
If you get this bike which I highly recommend, be prepared for many looks and finger pointing when riding around town. The guys in the bike shop I work at didn't really think that the Scream was going to be a good bike. Now they can't stop saying, "The Scream of Banshee!!!" They like really it! Fellow bikers and Downhillers can't believe how over built and tricked out the Scream comes. I get, "Is that a 1.5 headtube?" A lot because the headtube is just so massive and strong.
I highly Recommend this bike for anyone who wants a killer deal and a killer bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Beau
a
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: August 12, 2003
Frame weight requires a gram counting build. (Although mine is 43lbs with a heavy build). I know no one who has had any drive chain issues.
Similar Products Used:
Big Hit, RM-7, Shore
Bottom Line:
Feels like a BMX with full suspension. Super nimble, tight goemetry. The smallest feeling big bike I've ever ridden. It just makes you want to tweak your airs and style out every move. The funnest bike on the market right now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Downhiller
from Campbell River, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: August 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Dirt Merchant
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Simon's cycles
Strengths:
EVERYTHING! OMG! This bike is gusseted and re-inforced up the ying yang!
Weaknesses:
insert cricket noise here
Similar Products Used:
Nothing even compares to this bike so it would be an insult to even mention that a bike is even close to this bike
Bike Setup:
03 Banshee scream, Jr. T's, vanilla R shok, single track rims, husslefelt cranks, funn handlebar and stem and deore rear derrailer
Bottom Line:
Unbreakable, gobs of travel, can suck up anything you throw at it, so, in conclusion, BUY THIS BIKE! You will NEVER regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from halifax Date Reviewed: July 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
cyclesmith
Strengths:
everything weight is also handy going down the hill
Weaknesses:
bike should be available in more colors
Similar Products Used:
nothing
Bike Setup:
8"r r/c fox shock 03 monster mrp minime hayes 8"hydrolic fsa bars pig headset fsa serial killer stem fsa x drive crank, xt hubs derailer shifter,welgo b52 flats funn lauch pad seat glow in the dark grips
Bottom Line:
if you dont buy this bike after seeing the fram i dont know whats wrong with you unless your a girlyboy whos picky about weight and color the bikes undestructable trees cant even get in the way of its over builtness
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dm sd
a Downhiller
from toronto Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
store
Strengths:
every thing
Weaknesses:
no so far
Similar Products Used:
nothin as good
Bike Setup:
gucci package
Bottom Line:
u guys must have sand in ur v a g i n a
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sebastian
a
from Scandinavia Date Reviewed: June 6, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Build, components (Gucci), price, looks, feel.
Weaknesses:
The weight puts many down, but it`s definitely worth it on your way down the hill.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stab and Stinky, Santa Cruz Super8
Bike Setup:
Monster T, Gucci package, with changed seat, pedals and added MRP .
Bottom Line:
This bike gives a first impression of a small, but heavy bike. However, when the bike`s set up for your taste, it gives and gives. The ride is supersmooth and your abilities as a rider will progress on this bike. I`ve never had such a bike before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from Canada Date Reviewed: June 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The muff
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2139.00
Purchased At:
Bow cycle
Strengths:
the frame...especially the beefy stays
Weaknesses:
none that ive come across
Similar Products Used:
2003 kona stinky
Bike Setup:
funn serial killa stem,rhyno light rims,2002 zoke DJ1(soon to be a 2003 Super T)Fox vanilla R(5th element by next year hopefully)truVativ Hussefelt cranks with bashring,avid mechanical disks
Bottom Line:
this is the narliest bike ever a big 8 inches of plush travel in the back it takes every single thing i hit, extreemly solid frame Easton RAD kicks ass baby!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
llkoolkeg mtb
a Downhiller
from Frederick, MD Date Reviewed: May 27, 2003
weight(on a digital scale rather than perceived) chainguide set-up(on '02 model)
Similar Products Used:
None...I have never ridden a bike quite like the Scream.
Bike Setup:
XL Scream in 6.65" travel setting with: '01 Super T, Thomson 50mm stem & 30.0 seatpost, Azonic 2.5" DW risers, SRAM 9.0SL shifters/derailleurs, ODI locks/Yetis, Hayes 8" Hydros w/RazorRock levers F/R, custom LRP-type chainguide, 20/32/Evil Bash on RaceFace ISIS NorthShores, Azonic A-Frames, Tioga MCXL seat, 32H Hayes/521/14GA F, 36H XT w/solid axle/Atomic DHR/14GA R, Intense 2.7 F/Maxxis Mobster 2.5 R, Blackspire DH Headset, Woodman Capsule or Hopey dampener(depending on conditions).
Bottom Line:
My favorite bike so far. Mine weighs in a 44# and is a great, reliable bike. I give it hardly any maintenance and it hasn't let me down. Absolutely love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Banshee
a Downhiller
from Tropical Island Date Reviewed: May 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Banshee Scream is simply the best freeride bike ever.
Weaknesses:
Weekness???No,unless you're not a serious downhiller and say this frame is heavy.
I'm really satisfied with it. It's the best free-ride bike I've ever owned.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
EDDIE NIGHTHAWK
a Weekend Warrior
from LAKELAND, FLA. USA Date Reviewed: May 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
EVERYWHERE
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
B.C.I. INC.
Strengths:
STRENGTH, HANDLING, GOOD LOOKS.
Weaknesses:
NONE FOUND YET.
Similar Products Used:
GIANT IGUANA, GARY FISHER JOSHUA F-4, KLEIN.
Bike Setup:
BONE STOCK, JOURNEYMAN PACKAGE.
Bottom Line:
THIS IS A FOLLOW-UP TO A PREVIOUS REVIEW. 6 MONTHS ON THIS BIKE NOW AND ONLY PROBLEMS HAVE BEEN A BROKEN REAR BRAKE LINE @ THE CALIPER CONNECTOR.(REPAIRED @ LOCAL BIKE SHOP FOR 75.00 INCLUDING NEW PADS.) AND A BADLY BENT LEFT PEDAL (STRUCK IT ON A LARGE ROOT). REPLACED WITH ODYSSY TRIPLE TRAPS. NO OTHER PROBS. AT ALL. DID TAKE ABOUT 4 RIDES TO GET THE SHIFTING DIALED IN, AND IS NOW SMOOTH AS SILK! CANT SAY ENOUGH ABOUT THIS BIKE. TOUGH, SOLID, HEAVY (BUT NOT AT ALL A PROBLEM!) HANDLES EXCELLENT ON TRAILS, HILLS, ROOTS, LOGS, AND SEEMS TO ACCELERATE AS THOUGH IT IS POWERED BY AN ENGINE WHEN HEADING DOWNHILLS. AND ACTUALLY CLIMBS MUCH BETTER THAN YOU WOULD EXPECT A 44 LB BIKE WOULD. A SURE FOOTED MONSTER WHICH BOOSTS CONFIDENCE IN YOUR OWN ABILITIES AFTER JUST A FEW RIDES. GET IT!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
woody
a Downhiller
from canada Date Reviewed: May 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Burly, but does not ride to heavy. Adjustable, speced well(gucci). Jumps and drops well, Handles good, even with monster. Climbs ok, for a huge bike. Warrenty if it is what it claims.
Weaknesses:
Chain line, rear wheel issues, not a huge deal and not a concern if you want a chain guide. May need different spring for rear shock depending on setting, and body wieght( fith element would be better). Some extra paint protecion is not a bad idea.
You would not buy this bike if your wanted to do xc, or dh race( although it could be used for dh race, with 26 rear wheel and long wheel base setting). It is a big, fun, freerider. Huck, jump, steeps. Stiff on skinnys, and narrow chutes. Seems very strong, and forgiving. Not ready "out of the box" unless you have fith element and know you want a chain guide, but this is a great bike for what it is designed for. diging it so far. Good value, Canadian made, brutish bike. If you know you want pure freeride bike, this is tuff to beat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan m
a Downhiller
from halifax canada Date Reviewed: May 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anything fast
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$6300.00
Purchased At:
cyclesmith
Strengths:
everything the head tube is massive the whole bike is overbuilt
Weaknesses:
none that i can see or feel bike is completely solid
Similar Products Used:
none people should not compare this with any bike unless its a motor dirt bike
Bike Setup:
fox vanilla r/c with 03 monster t hayes 8 inch mavic d 321 rims maxxis mobster tires mrp mini me chainguide xt components funn full throttle seat fsa x drive crankset fsa the pig headset
Bottom Line:
this bike with monster t is a tank i cant imagine what i would have to do to break it and it also has the best proven rear shock design for north shore very plush travel bike likes to stick to the ground being 53 lbs of north shore beast. people who are looking for a stronger then usual bike to huck off whatever they want (maybe even the moon) should buy this bike and i find unlike alot of other bike companys banshee bikes acctually cares about their customers and will take time to answer any questions in full detail and are very friendly people.
if the guys at banchee see this review i would just like to say thanks alot keep up the good work and your bike is an incredable unstopable monster of a ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
logan
a Weekend Warrior
from oregon Date Reviewed: May 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3069.00
Purchased At:
santiam bikes a way of life
Strengths:
can't feel loading docks or twelve stairs. pedles well despite weight. looks good. i'll break before it does.
Weaknesses:
dirt jumping and difficult up hills
Similar Products Used:
stinky dee lux
Bike Setup:
19" scream jr.t pro sun double track wheels 8" hayes maxxis high rollers
Bottom Line:
go for the gucci package if you have the money and don't look at the weight you wont notice it unless you're use to riding a cross country bike then maybe you should look at something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Limestone Cowboy
a Downhiller
from BC Backcountry Date Reviewed: April 15, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Mt 7
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Selkirk
Strengths:
Super stiff, plush feel, fast and stable w/ long wheel base setting, warranty, simple proven design, slick look. This is a serious dh bike definately for a full-on rider lookin to up the ante.
Weaknesses:
Paint chips, drive train hard to dial.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz, Norco - similar series
Bike Setup:
2003 shiver w/ integrated stem, 5th element, 24/26 inch wheels, Hussefeld cranks, mrp, headbanger headset, hayes 8 inch hydros.
Bottom Line:
This bike handles like no other and really Inspires confidence and jumps/drops with ease. Wheelbase adjustability is fine, but beware of hitting frame with a 26 inch rear wheel (mine hit on centre setting) - I love the 24 rear at the long setting for everything. The drive train is a universal problem for most Banshee owners. After talking to others, the universal word seems to be to run a chainguide/tensioner on the front (I machined down my MRP to fit and it's great), and a short-cage LX rear d. I've abused her since setting it up this way w/out a single problem. True, it takes a bit to get dialed, but once yer there you'll be livin large.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Francesco
a Weekend Warrior
from Italy Date Reviewed: April 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Free Bike, Biella
Strengths:
Frame, stiffness, easy to drive
Weaknesses:
paint job
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, Specilized Big Hit dh, GT I-drive...
Bike Setup:
Super T 03, Hope disc brakes, 26'24' Double wide rims, easton Race face components
Bottom Line:
It's really the best freeride bike I've ever owned. I can drop 10 feet more drops, I can air double of 25 feet and rhi bike ( weight around 45 lbs) really flies trough the air like anything I've tried before. I run a double 22/32 with bush ring and LRP and, with my 3 piece cr-mo cranks, I've got no problem of Chain hookin tyre with mine Intense 3' rear wheel. Some of my friends rode a double chainrings front with Shimano 118mm Bottom braket and still no problem. But the bike is super easy for freeriding and high jump and drops: easy to do anything with the wheels on the grounf and super confidence inspiring through air. Paint is a little bit fragile: but I use a good wax on frame and covered the point most subject to damage with 3M scotch and, after six month, my paint seems new!! Really the best bike for free-riding I've ever rode!!!!!! If you're an hard core freerider simply buy it ( yup and perhaps you can save some money from other brands!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim L
a Weekend Warrior
from BC Date Reviewed: April 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
GMG
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
A shop
Strengths:
Looks good. Heavy?didnt really notcie it
Weaknesses:
Everything...where do i begin?
-cant put a decent chainguide on it. its gotta be an envy or a truvativ. blackspire or mrp wont work.
-if you do get the guide on your chainline gets super messed and shifting will be horrible not to mention you cant have a guide on it and then you have to run longe bbs which means more money
-whats the point with having all the room for a 24x3.0 when the chain already rubs on a 24x2.7?
-they cheaped out on paint cause after 1 ride the bike looked like absoulte sh1t.
-threw on gussetes everywhere but forgot some places where they can crack.
-they have all those shock mount adjustments but you cant run some of them which is pointless.
-shock bottoms out so much even with a stiffer spring and smacks the linkplates living one big ass dent.
all this can ruin your ride or trips. i can say i spent many hours trying to get this stuff to work but didnt.
Similar Products Used:
Vps series.rocky serire.santacruz series.
Bottom Line:
this is a real review. They need to go back to the drawing board on this one.maybe in a few years it will be good when they take these bugs out of it. for now stay away. also look into the warranty. you may be suprised
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
EDDIE NIGHTHAWK
a Weekend Warrior
from LAKELAND, FLA. USA. Date Reviewed: February 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
B.C.I. (Bicycle Co. Inc.)
Strengths:
10 year warranty, Incredible strength, excellent geometry, top components, extremely rideable!! It seems to know what your thinking! Silky Smooth operation.
Weaknesses:
It is early...but none yet!
Similar Products Used:
Klien, Gary Fischer Joshua F-4,and XC'S. Giant Iguana hardtail.
Bike Setup:
jOURNEYMAN package. Truvativ Hussefelt,Rock Shox Boxxer triple clamp front end, Fox R Vanilla shock, Shimano Deores all around, Kenda Kinetics Tires. Sun Single Track wheels. Funn head. Hayes Hydro. brakes. (Stock).
Bottom Line:
Whoa!!!!! Only 8 hours in the saddle so far. This bike lets you ride like superman! Doesn't take long to become fearless! My rig weighs out @ 44 lbs. I swear to you, it may as well weigh 10 lbs. You will not notice its weight! Not a "high speed" bike,(unless your heading downhill, then its a "Rocket")! But peddles effortlessly on flat trails, roots, rocks,(boulders),tree stumps, and amazingly even uphill. I can actually outclimb my own Giant Iquana hardtail easily on the Scream, and my ass never leaves the seat! Forget about riding the "line" or "track" this bike doesnt recognize the groove. Wherever you aim it that IS its "groove". The 24" rear wheel is not the problem I thought it would be. (larger wheels roll over obstacles better, right?). This bike disproves that theory. Rolls over anything and everything. And is really comfortable even on flat boring trails to boot. (I was told this would not be a good bike for trails, by someone who obviously hasn't ridin one!!) This bike is good for ANYTHING!!...trails, phosphate pits, water holes, sand, gravel,rocks, roots, stumps,hills (up or down), dives, drops, and even grocery getting. The guys @ BANSHEE are the best. Answered all my phone calls, e-mails and questions promptly and honestly! And the bike comes with all sorts of extra parts (dont think Ill ever need them) and even a bottle of touch up paint! One more note worth mentioning: The main pivots use GM transmission bearings (the biggest and toughest in the business warranteed for 5 years hard use) and readily available skate board bearings (warranteed for 3 years hard use) in the linkeage pivots! Too Cool! Buck up and shell out the bucks! Dont do what I did and waste money on an "entry level bike". GO BIG!!! P.S. This bike turns heads, and want it or not..Grabs Attention! If you ride one be ready to answer questions on the trails. Will update later after Ive tortured the bike some more. YAHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!! FUN BIKE!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob --------
a Weekend Warrior
from BC Canada Date Reviewed: January 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
AnyTrail On The Shore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
OT
Strengths:
Adjustable travel(6,7,8inches),Ultra plush landings off big(8 ft plus)drops,Adjustable rear end for different riding conditions(freeride,downhill)etc.All the extra parts you get when you buy the frame(drop out,du bearing,frt derailler.even though I dont use one I sold it for cash so that helps).Awesome for fast tight trails,great on ladders,and better when doing monster drops!!!!!!!
Weaknesses:
My rear brake cable pinched around the back end but I used conduit to cover it.Not to pretty but it works like a charm.Well thats the only thing I can come up with.Not much!
Similar Products Used:
I cant say that it reminds me of anything Ive riden but my old,old Brodie Bigshot was a hard tail and it reminds me of it on STEROIDS.
I cant say enough about this frame.It can transform from a downhill Whistler machine to a Northshore skinny ladder ridin huge huckin monster.Its basically the Jeckell and Hyde of all long travel bikes.Its easy to pedal and heavy enough that you can feel safe doing that big huck without the frame snapping in two.Ive ridden three other big bikes and this one by far is my favorite(This year anyways)That was my wife!! Ha Ha Ha!I give the Banshee Scream five smokin hot chili's for a bunch of guys in Westvan with a great idea to build a Beast....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Simon Hirota
a Downhiller
from Hamilton Date Reviewed: January 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Golf Course Deer Leg Loop (Dundas)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Eastside's Cycle in Kitchener
Strengths:
Sound construction, travel adjustments, parts kit (telescoping seatpost, fr. der., bolt-on rear axel), adjustable wheelbase, long toptube with plenty of standover.
Weaknesses:
Steep headtube angle can become sketchy at speed. Changing the travel setting will alter leverage on the shock. This necessitates either one spring weight for your selected travel setting or two springs, one for the shorter setting and one for the longer setting.
Similar Products Used:
Rm6 (2000, 2001)
Bike Setup:
2003 medium Scream set up in 6 inch travel setting w/ Stratos MX6, Race Face Prodigy DH cranks (two rings + bashguard), 8 sp XT (old school), front 26 Rhinolite TCB, rear 24 Doublewide (for downhill) and 26 Rhinolite TCB (for trailriding).
Bottom Line:
I have had my Scream for around 3 months now and can give an early review. Most of my riding on the Scream has been trailriding to date. The bike handles very well and climbs reasonably well despite its weight. I have mine setup in the 6 inch setting with a 700 lb spring (I weigh about 210 lb). In order to use the longer travel settings I'll need to get a heavier spring (not really a big deal if you want the correct setup without a dangerous amount of preload risking coil bind). I have done some small drops on it so far (max. 3-5 to transition) and it the suspension ramps up very nicely. I plan on using this as my primary trailbike for the season and racing DH on this bike also. Being a heavier, and oftern less-than-smooth rider, I think this will be the ideal bike for me. I'll let you know how it feels in the summer time. I would recommend the Scream to anyone who is A) hard on bikes due to riding style or size B) someone who is looking to invest in a frame longterm (10 year warranty) C) someone who is looking for one bike to satisfy trailriding and DH needs.
Simon
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
reinhard lin
a Weekend Warrior
from taipei, taiwan Date Reviewed: January 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Wu Lai
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Ta Fu Go
Strengths:
long travel , Extreamly strong,easy to handle
Weaknesses:
very heavy about 23KGS, change the wheel will take you a lot of time
Similar Products Used:
stinky ,giant ac2
Bike Setup:
hayes , monster t 2003, double track wheel,...
Bottom Line:
I am not a super biker, But this bike let me feel I CAN do more than I dare to do . mamy thing I thought it is BIG Problem before , now seems "nothing". Even it is a havery, But you feel very easy to control seems just only 17kgs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chad peterson
a Downhiller
from NOR CAL Date Reviewed: January 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
downieville
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Caesar's
Strengths:
Burly, indestructable, design, sit in not on it design, solid folks behind company, price, telescopic seatpost plus extras. 5th element shock makes this rig ride lighter than it is. 10 year warranty.
Weaknesses:
banshee gave me a 2002 frame in 03, they say its the same frame, besides the 02 sticker, also some of the little washers that surround the mounts for the shock were cracked, banshee did send new ones though my shop had to install them. It is a new/small company so you never know if they will be around in ten years to live up to their warranty,
Similar Products Used:
psycle werks screamin demon, bullit.
Bike Setup:
white bros dh2, hayes hydro, white bros ti bar, thomson stem, atom lab trail pimp pedals, xt, xtr.
Bottom Line:
I think this frame will be around for the long haul, it seems virtually bomb-proof, Its not the lightest but it still pedals very well. I love the design, it feels like you are one with the frame, you feel like your sitting right inside it, I highly reccomend the 5th element. I like it, I like it a lot. Buy this frame if you like to have fun with your bike, not for dh racing,
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from Louisville, KY Date Reviewed: December 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Cherokee , Duffield
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.BIKEHELL.com
Strengths:
Frame construction, engineering, finish, stiffness, beef, horozontal dropouts, head tub, ride-ability, warranty, and great company.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinky, Santa Cruize Bullit
Bike Setup:
Jr.T, Raceface, mix of other parts.
Bottom Line:
This bike is hard to top. Many people let the weight of the frame scare them away. But i ride this bike for everything. Urban, Freeride, Shuttle runs, and even mild Cross country. My build weighs 46 lbs but it feels like a much ligher bike on the trail and in the air. All that said, i weigh 135 lbs and have NO problem riding all day on this beast. The thought and engineering that went in to this frame is staggering. Nothing has been overlooked. I purchased this bike as frame only and was very supprised to see what "frame only" meens to Banshee. The frame included a front derrailer, telescopic seat post, extra derrailer hanger, misc. pivot bolts, solid thru axel w/ nuts for the rear hub (if you are into that sorta thing), and even a bottle of paint to touch up any chips or scratches. I wish all bike companies would think about the costomer like that. Also i would like to say that Terry @ www.bikehell.com was also excellent and made my purchase that much better. This bike is a great choice for people that just ride. You can hit stair gaps, drop off anything, stomp the local dirt jumps or go to the liquor store in style. Banshee does it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Jepson
a Downhiller
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: December 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Fernie Ski Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Bow Cycle
Strengths:
thickness of the head tube,Can handle any fork.Funn bike2 ride on everything.Easy to bunny hop and manuel for how heavy it it.
Weaknesses:
I have snaped one frame at the bottem of the seat tube and another frame was about 2 snap in the same placein just riding the bike for a bit over 4 munths.Over bult in places in not enoguh in others
Similar Products Used:
kona stinkys but lighter
Bike Setup:
2002 monster t, dual double track 24" rear 26" front,dual 8" hayes haydros,fat boy slim bars,sirial killer stem,arrow racing tires,FSA craks,profile bb,funn seat
Bottom Line:
For people who arn't that hard on there bikes or dh.Funn for dirt jumpin and huckin.The bike is good for everything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich Wilson
a Downhiller
from Dale City, VA USA Date Reviewed: December 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
I Cant Believe its Wintergreen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Direct from Banshee prodeal
Strengths:
Very burly, very stiff, nice welds. The bike rides and jumps like its WAY lighter than it is. Very flexible in its setup. 6, 7, or 8" of travel. Also you can slam the wheel all the way forward in teh drops and have it be perfect for drops or you can have it all the way back and have it be better for DHing. I have it in the middle.
Weaknesses:
Cant use regular chainguides without Hurculean efforts and comprimising chainline. 03' is supposed to be better about this. Also, if you are over 22lbs you will need a custom spring for the Fox shock (call Pohl Springs). The bike is short in wheelbase so its more skittish at HIGH speeds than my Tomac 204(duh! thats a DH race bike). The weight is a small weakness if you are a small rider. My bike weighs almost 52 lbs. This is 1 lb more than my Tomac weighed and if you rode both bikes you'd think the Banshee was 10 lbs lighter trust me. The weight isn't an issue unless you are under 170 or so.
If you are a big guy (200+) doing drops of any size...RUN to this set-up. Period. The bike is nimble as hell, it jumps great and its so burly. I was freeriding on a Tomac 204 and I will still keep that bike for racing DH but the Banshee is way better suited for freeriding, playing in the woods, pedalling to the fun spots etc. The bike has a long TT but a short rear end. Its so easy to pedal kick and manuever throw the slow speed sketchy stuff. Also, the US dollar is pimpslapping the CDN dollar so this frame is one hell of a deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TOM
a Weekend Warrior
from CANADA Date Reviewed: December 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
STARFISH NS
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
OT
Strengths:
REAR SWING ARM IS INDISTRUCTABLE(LOOKING)SHORT FRAME SO MAKES IT EASY TO TAKE SHARP TURNS QUIKER THAN MOST BIKES.I'VE YET TO BOTTOM THE BACK END OUT BUT I'VE ONLY GONE OFF 9 FTERS AT MOST.
THIS BIKE IS HEAVY AND DURRIBLE.I WEIGH 185 AND THIS IS THE PERFECT BIKE FOR MY LIKINS.I CAN ONLY HOPE IN A COUPLE MTHS SOMETHINGELSE DOESNT COME ALONG THAT ILL THINK IS BETTER....CANT AFFORDIT.BOTTOM LINE THIS IS A TANK AND I LOVE IT
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JD Roth
a Downhiller
from Victoria, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: December 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Water Tower
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
United Cycle, Edmonton
Strengths:
This bike has one of the toughest and stiffest DH and Freeride frames that i have ever ridden. Good overall components: Sun Double track, Jr. T's, hayes hydraulic 8" discs, XT deraliers and Funn head set make the reliability of the bike is sufficient to say the least. Boasting a pretty good 8" of travel in the rear and 7 in the front this bike is ideal for big drops by big riders. Weighing in at around 50 lbs all said and done the frame is the least of your worries. Finally, the company has great customer service; with a policy to replace parts now and ask questions later accompanied by a 10 year warranty nothing but the task at hand needs to be on your mind when droppin a 15 footer.
Weaknesses:
The bike is not a fast one, its strengh lies in its freeride abilities but not in its speed. The Fast action tires are great gripping but slow as hell. Being a free ride bike made on the north shore its 50 lbs weight is hampering when trying to make quick turns and manuver the bike. Its not exactly a pretty bike
Fast action tires, wellgo pedals, Funn head serial killa set, Xt derailers, Jr T, Fox RC, Sunn Double track, Hayes hydraulic 8" brakes.
Bottom Line:
A great free ride bike not questions asked
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt stibler
a Weekend Warrior
from london Date Reviewed: December 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
first cycle works
Strengths:
very stiff frame! good welds and gussets all over. thickest head tube i've ever seen (14mm thick)
Weaknesses:
none execpt the boxxer
Similar Products Used:
2001 nocro buzz,2001 launch,2001 kona stinky dee-lux,2002 kona stinky dee-lux,2002 bordie devo
Bike Setup:
stock with boxxer race
Bottom Line:
this is the stiffest frame i've riddind so far ,i think that i going to have to get me one of these in the spring but i'll be running a monster t on it. this is the perfect bike to take ur ridding to the next level!
to all u ridders out there keep the rubber side down!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alec
a
from Renfrew, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 7, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2150.00
Strengths:
Extreamly strong, adjustable wheelbase, easy to handle, climbs very good, adjustable travel from 6" to 8"
Weaknesses:
somewhat heavy, changing rear wheel can be a hassle
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Hayes 8" F/B, 02' DirtJump 1 , 5th Element, Funn stem/handlebars, 24/26 Rhyno Lites, Hussefelt II Chainguide,
Bottom Line:
Extreamly nice ride, can take anything, very very strong, rear triangle very stiff, handles corners smoothly, weights alot(13 pounds for the frame) but doesn't feel like it when pedeling.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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