Submitted by
noahwass
a Downhiller
from F, WA, USA Date Reviewed: June 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
anything on Galbraith
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Division Cycles
Strengths:
Great frame, great components, strong cross country bike and good enough for some medium drops.
Weaknesses:
Rear shock is a little springy if you're jumping anything. The lack of a full down tube for your seat leaves you wishing that you could lower the seat for more clearance while you're downhilling.
Similar Products Used:
nothing...
Bike Setup:
All stock. It's a great bike right out the gate.
Bottom Line:
I just retired this bike after 10 great years of riding. It's an amazing bike. I've ridden it 26 miles in part of a triathlon and have used it as a downhill bike taking it off 4' drops. I even purchased a set of road rims and stuck some 1.9" slicks on it and used it as a commuter! I rarely bottomed the front fork out and the frame has been flawless for me. I still have the original components and everything works like a champ.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtbordie7787
a Downhiller
from Oregon Date Reviewed: May 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Blackrock Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
Craigslist Oregon
Strengths:
Great sturdy frame, some what light for a older bike.
this bike is hella dope no mattter how you set it up, strong all around bike, nice frame set. I would recomend this bike for Cross country or downhill depends on your taste and seet up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chipbox
a Weekend Warrior
from Holloman Date Reviewed: August 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
BX
Strengths:
VERY strong frame, good reliable components. This was my first full suspension bike. I bombed this down every trail I possibly could. Components have worn over time but the frame seems to be indestructable. Marzocchi Z3 Long Travel has served very well over the years too.
Weaknesses:
Bushings for the shock have worn out and I'm having trouble finding new ones. It's 8 yrs old...Things happen.
Similar Products Used:
Currently Ride Giant AC1, have ridden many diferent Full Susp. bikes, many miles.
Bike Setup:
04 Giant AC1, Nixon, Fox RP3, Hayes Nine, Gravity Dropper, XT der, LX sftrs, 2.5 FreedomCross IRCs....
Bottom Line:
This bike is a keeper...even though the components are finally starting to show some wear I'm keeping it and bringing it up to date with disc wheelset/Manitou Stance Flow fork/Hayes MX1s etc. My son was just a toddler when I first started riding this bike and now as a young teenager he is riding it and putting it to the test again. I have been impressed over and over with this bike and would recommend it to anyone who doesn't want to spend an arm and a leg for a bomb-proof bike that will go up and down just about any trail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SlyOne
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver, CO, USA Date Reviewed: April 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Pork Rim
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
6 Years Ago
Strengths:
Super tough frame
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Replaced everything on the bike except the frame. It's the special black one!
Bottom Line:
I've been riding this frame for the last 5 years and swapped out the parts when things wear out. The frame has been killer!
I just purchased a Fox Vanilla RC and I have not installed it yet. I've replaced the suspension bushings but not the original Fox Vanilla. Will this work? I noticed the picture for the 1999 DBR-X10 has the RC but I'm concerned about the different linkage (check out the pictures). Will the X10 linkage work on an X2 frame (It looks a little different on the picture)? Any suggestions?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Micky frye
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: April 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Vienna, Austria
Strengths:
Goes downhill good...good stock parts for the price.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
Stock LX/XT stuff
Bottom Line:
I also had the black one for a year while in Austria. Sold it for 500 bucks to a fellow Marine stationed there. I lovede this bike...wish I had it back. It must be a special edition for EU??? All black frame w/silver "X2" on the down tube. Black and blue Zocci Bomber fork. Black TOPO stuff on it. Awesome bike.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Victor
a
from Vienna, Austria Date Reviewed: April 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
You can't know it ;)
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
1600
Strengths:
very good setup of components, excellent front suspension/fork, bulletproof frame, looks and RIDES! much more expensive than it is.
Weaknesses:
i can't configure my rear suspension because of that simple fox-damper, bike is really heavy (~13kg)
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Level betty SE 1999
Bike Setup:
SPECIAL BIKE SETUP: Bike is completely BLACK, some special european edition (?!), fox damper 100mm (rear), Marzocchi Bomber Z3 Ultra Long Travel 130mm (front), Shimano XT&XTR gear/components, 190mm MAGURA GUSTAV M diskbrake(front), Magura HS22 (back).
Bottom Line:
Great bike, but too heavy. Wonderful for CrossCountry and "light" Downhilling.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a
from Dallas, Texas Date Reviewed: November 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
City Park (Emma Long-Austin)
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Oshmans
Strengths:
Great value, bombproof frame & bearings, easily upgradable, beautiful black & silver frame.
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy, a lot of pedal induced bobbing by today's standards.
Similar Products Used:
Scott Comp. Racing, Scott Elite Racing, Scott Endorphin, Haro Escape A4, Iron Horse MT400, K2 Team Zed
Bike Setup:
Upgraded parts almost immediately to Rock Shox Sid XC fork, Hugi/Mavic 517 wheels, Panaracer Fire XC tires, Chris King headset, Race Face handlebar & stem, Dean ti seatpost, & Shimano DX pedals.
Bottom Line:
Over 3 years of hard XC, freeride, & DH pounding without one single problem from the frame, bearings, or Fox Vanilla shock! I have broken 2 other aluminum frames and 2 carbon frames, and all four of those other bikes combined did not last this long. This bike even survived crashes I didn't (broken ribs, broken hand, 3 concussions). The OE part spec. was uninspiring, but for an $800 clearance full-suspension bike it was a hell of a deal. This bike is on the heavy end of XC, but it is perfect for moderate freeriding (drops under 8'). Five Texas Flamin' Chilis for never letting me down!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Sample
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO, USA Date Reviewed: November 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Colorado Trail/Roxborough Loop
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
The Spoke
Strengths:
Great frame, takes anything you can! Good components for the money. Handles like a dream. Geax tires were great..but boy those things are expensive.
Weaknesses:
A little on the heavey side. Stock front fork Bomber Z5 fly light, leaked oil like mo-fo after a good ride..blew out the seals 6 times..fork is gone now. Bolt on the rear shock does not fit right..really loose. has not broke yet like a few others I have read. Lots of chain slapping on the big hits, doesn't come off too much.
Similar Products Used:
GT, StumpJumper, Santa Cruz Superlight.
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Pyslo SL, Rock Shox Deluxe rear shock, LX drivetrain with Deore Hollow tech crank, Avid disc brakes, Mavic 223 disc wheels with Formula hubs, Kioski bars and stem, WTB headset. IRC Back Country tires, Slime tubes (well worth the extra weight, no flats yet).
Bottom Line:
Great buy, bulletproof frame, with some minor changes it can be a really good bike. I have been waiting for the frame to wearout or break so I can try a new one..but it hasn't happened yet. I have about 3000 miles on mine. Heavy on the climbs (29lbs) but going downhill makes the climb worth it. The disc brakes help give you the stopping power you need when you are barreling down the mountain. I really like the 4 link suspension (over the single pivot designs), it doesn't seem to "give" as much while pedaling up hill, and real takes the washboard bumps and quick terain changes around here a lot better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mikel stevens jr
a
from rochester, New Hampshire, United States Date Reviewed: October 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any trail will do
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
tri city mt bike
Strengths:
great geometry and handling
Weaknesses:
other than beeing a little heavy nothing
Similar Products Used:
97 khs fxt team 97 fxt khs comp 98 khs fxt trail 02 k2 launch 4.0 (witch is a load of bull)
Bike Setup:
deore shifters deore front deralure deore rear hub with wtb rim marzocchi qr 20 front hub with sun rihno lite rim shimono crank 2000 marzocchi z3 qr 20 fork and stock fox vanilla rear shock
Bottom Line:
i use this bike for downhill/cross country and ive tried to break it i cant i can usualy break a frame on my favorite trail but i just wont die if u cant find this same frame u diamondback just started using the same frame design for the 2003 dbrs and i think ill get one ps.. ive only been able to keep a frame for 3 or 4 weeks so i should have this one for a wileso if u come across one buy it trust me u will love it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Dana Point Date Reviewed: July 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
E101
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
The Kook @ Buy My Bikes!
Strengths:
Big hits, Diggers, Climbs, Mud, Sand, Snow, Heat, Rocks, Ruts, Roots Reggae - This Rig does it all!
Weaknesses:
THE BOLT - Many Cans-O-Beer to shim in there. Nothing Else.
Similar Products Used:
Anything FS over $1000.
Bike Setup:
Virtually Stock. Went to XTR downhill rear hub and Z1 after Z3 seals blew.
Bottom Line:
Bike Jams!!! If you can find one buy it. Won't break!!!!!! Trust me 6'2 250+ the true Clydesdale!!!
Very bummed DBR has gone away - Well at least not making rigs like this anymore. Companies that make and sell bikes like this should hang around forever. Love kickin the crap out of my buddies that ride the sub 30lb bikes. Remember it is the rider, the bike is just a tool to get up and down the hills.
Ride hard and respect the trails. Later
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Isaac
a Weekend Warrior
from Milwaukee, WI Date Reviewed: July 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim, Moab
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
West Allis Bike
Strengths:
Can't kill the frame, big drops or anything you can throw at it wont hurt it. Stock fork (z3 lt) not too shabby. Setup is key, a few mods will make this bike rock. Get rid of the fork and put on a new one w/ newer disc mounts, magura brakes bolt up nice, just replace the rear caliper w/ a front - you'll be running a front caliper on both ends and you'll stop on a dime.
Weaknesses:
Keep breaking the bolt off where the shock bolts to the frame, went through at least 5 bolts so far. Stock shock weak for anyone who rides hard or weighs over an ounce and a half. Somewhat of a tank to ride up hills, get a shock w/ lockout and it would help a lot.
Similar Products Used:
k2 evo 3.0, gt xcr le, gt lts, fsr xc/elite/enduro
Bike Setup:
2002 Marz. z1 Wedge (awesome fork), fox float r off a specialized enduro (w/ itch switch, great add-on if you can find a shock, check ebay), tompson elite post, answer dh bars, lx splined bb, lx front der, xt rear(not original), sun rhyno lite rims w/ xt disc hubs(36 hole), magura louise discs, tioga factory dh 2.3 tires.
Bottom Line:
For if you can find one of these frames or bikes, pick it up, parts to upgrade to a downhill bombing bike aren't too expensive and will give you the ride of your life. Love the bike, gonna keep beating it to death.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dumpster Brown
a Downhiller
from Taunton MA Date Reviewed: August 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Vietnam
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Crossing Cycle
Strengths:
THE FRAME...Strong,takes big hits. My X-2 has taken 2 yrs of hard abuse ( big gaps,hard crashes,flat-ground landings ect.) the bike has stood the test of time.
Weaknesses:
THE PARTS...Basic entry level components.The coil-over shock with a 950 sping upgrade and the XT r/derailuerare the only stock items left on my bike.The Z-3 fork is okay depending on your type of ride-style
Out of he box the bike is good for the average weekend warrior,but the frame is a strong freerider worthy of upgrades. Im 6.2 225 lbs and I like to jump. This thing has taken countless hard flat-ground landings. The people I ride with have bikes with 2x the travel I have. Basicly ,if I snapped this frame in half today Id still say I got my moneys worth out of it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adi yariv
a Weekend Warrior
from israel Date Reviewed: August 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
croos/ downhill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$925.00
Purchased At:
haifa
Strengths:
strenght, plush ridin,price
Weaknesses:
a loot of damm noise on heavy decents, and its f*&%&^% heavy on the up- hill!!
Similar Products Used:
gaint warp,spec' fsr-pro.
Bike Setup:
lx/xt/deore, r.s."judy", continntal pro tires,
Bottom Line:
this bike rock!! even throgh the rigged carmel mt. serrounding the fly away without any problem - i'm so glad i got this bike- good job d.b !!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
darren jones
a Weekend Warrior
from sac town Date Reviewed: April 5, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
oarngvale pawnshop
Strengths:
bad ass bike. I had never ridden a fs bike. The x2 was great. I have never jumped a bike like I do now, I feel totally in control. THe bike is a dream downhill, I gave almost killed myself three times already
Weaknesses:
Tires suck, cranks suck, and the headset won't tighten
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
race face cranks, besides that stock.
Bottom Line:
I traded my free agent cruiser for one of the tightest bikes I have ever ridden. Needless to say I am stocked.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a
from California, USA Date Reviewed: March 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$980.00
Strengths:
For the money I spent, this bike is awesome!!! It's everything I wanted in a FS bike. Although the version I got is geared for freeride or DH, it still makes a very good XC bike. Although a little on the heavy side, I'm thankfull for that weight when I'm hitting rocks and when I'm jumping off of small cliffs.
Weaknesses:
after the rear shock (RockShox Deluxe) broke in, it felt squishy and the whole back end feels like it's gonna slip right out from under me. Some chain slap from bigger hits, but i think that's to be expected.
Similar Products Used:
GT I-Drive 4.0,3.0; different Haro FS's
Bike Setup:
My bike is step up a little different than the what the other have described. i have Mavic X-223 Disc wheels, ProMax Discs with Avid 1.9 levers, Geax Sedona 225 tires, Koski stem and handle bars, RockShox Judy XC in front and A RockShox Deluxe in the rear. On top of that, My version is all black. I didn't know they made versions in different colors.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line, for the money, this is the best bike out there. I recently started racing DH with it. And though I only have 4" of travel front and rear, I still can hang with the big boys. Very nice bike. nice balance. Reminds me of the days when I used to ride motorcycles. I love the way it handles. Very predictable bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Quincy, MA Date Reviewed: December 22, 2000
This is my first dual suspension bike, and I gotta say...I love it. I must add, the dealership was excellent, I mean, I walked in, and this X-2 fell prey to the newer '00 models and had it's price slashed to move it off the floor. Needless to say, A couple of thorough glances and subsequent investigation, led to reaffirm what I had originally thought...this is one hell of a deal (brand new, $799). This was the changing moment in my cycling life. After I had paid for it (a couple of weeks later thanks to a lay away plan), I took it to a couple of hills that I knew near by. I did my best to ride to the top of the hill, turned around to eye what lay before me, a monsterous drop, with some whoop-dees at the bottom, and a crevace seperating to whoops. I strapped my helmet on, prayed to The Almighty, and made my way down the hill. Can you say "trial by fire"? The first thing I noticed was the control of the bike. I love downhill stuff, and have been doing it since I could ride, but on a dual suspension bike, it's different, and to add to that, on an X-2, it's an experience that will leave a smile. I never once felt that it lose control. The suspension did it's job to the point where I wasn't noticing that it WAS working. That's about as good as it gets. I love the components...the only upgrade? Maybe new wheels (read: lighter), and possibly disc brakes. The rear shock, a Fox Vanilla, while lacking in adjustment, more than adequetly gets the job done. The Z3 100 fork is excellent, but as with the rear shock, lacks any serious adjustment besides preload. In all, I love this bike, and as my skills grow, so too will the X-2. There are no other four bar linkage suspension set ups, with a Horst link, that could EVER compare in price and performance. Add this to the mix...2 generic parts - riserbars and seatpost. That's it! Try finding that on a sub $1000 bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darin
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Clara, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 13, 2000
Heavy (with my thorn-proof tubes, it is about 33-34 pounds). It is a chore to go on a long ride with much uphill. Rear suspension linkage is beginning to get sloppy - if I tighten it too much, it squeaks.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR (also a nice bike)
Bike Setup:
Stock, but I cut 3/4 inch off each end of those ridiculous handle bars and got stiffer springs front and rear.
Bottom Line:
I love my X2. It's heavy, but it's plush ride has saved my skin more times than I'd like to admit. It climbs like a school bus towing a yacht, but it descends like a cadillac. When bombing down hill on this thing, I can hit bumps, rocks, roots and ruts that would toss me over the handlebars of the Specialized FSR (forget about a hardtail!). It is just a really fun bike. I took it up to Northstar (a ski area in Tahoe) a couple times and beat the living hell out of it, with no ill effects. If you can handle a little extra weight on the uphill, your efforts will be well rewarded on the way down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Max
a Downhiller
from Sweden Date Reviewed: October 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Nice frame - riding position - good descender- awsome value -nice slack head angle. Fox shock.
Weaknesses:
Ugly stickers, but they´re easy removable. Not to good a climber. frame a bit heavy for xc, (stable for descending though.)
Similar Products Used:
Mano Mano Gary fisher f3 ...
Bike Setup:
JR:Ts. Louise discs.mavic x321rims. amoeba stem. XT hubs. IRC KUJO:s . shimano DX flatties. ODI lock ons. Chain guard.
Bottom Line:
Nice bike to upgrade . Riding position is fantastic. The linkage Looks a bit naff, but still a lot better then a Mano-mano or moko-moko- work´s good though- but I doubt it will last forever(funny noises have started to occur). You get a lot for your money although there might be better bikes out there - so far I´m really happy with mine. The fox and JR:T really work amazing together.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Felix the Cat
a Weekend Warrior
from Walnut, CA Date Reviewed: October 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Incycle, San Dimas
Strengths:
i know, i've written a review on this, but heres a long term test...
the Bomber still kicks major ass, and i still havent maitnenced it yet(hahaha). the drive train works great, even though my third ring is bashed. the bike is pretty stiff ecxept for the hubs, cranks, and handlebars(these bars are WHACK!) its great for all around riding. it climbs very well and goes downhill even better.
Weaknesses:
the front hub is so damn flexy! like i said before, the handle bars suck. the stock tires are also pretty worthless for anything besides light XC riding. this bike is semi-fat, its not that noticible when your riding it, but its heavy to pick up.
Mobster front tire, azonic shorty stem, odi grips, shock links flipped around(makes 4.5 in. or travel), S&M platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for the money. The only major problem is that the bolt that connects the shock to the frame keeps breaking! damn, i hate that. and if you decide to get 4.5 inches of travel, you'll probably need to get a stiffer spring. and the Bomber KICKS ASS, buttery smooth i tell you
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yonz
a Downhiller
from Gaithersburg, MD Date Reviewed: July 28, 2000
Bushings over bearings Seat - Titec Beserkr Seat post - Kalloy
Similar Products Used:
K2 4000
Bike Setup:
Azonic riser bars, Marzocchi seat, EA50 seat post, SpeedSpring (900 rear), Marzocchi firm fork springs, T.H.E. front fender.
Bottom Line:
Good bike for the price with a decent frame. Picked it up as a left over at an odd shop in Amish country PA. The seat and seat post are low quality cost-cuters that fold up on the first ride. Also, the bike is way undersprung for clydesdales. Other components seem to be fine...a good ride for light freeriding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reuben rodriguez
a Downhiller
from nyc manhattan Date Reviewed: July 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything downhill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
the fork is extremly sensetive and eats up almost about everything you throw at it
Weaknesses:
the screws that hold the actual rear shock keeps breaking .the way the rear shock is positioned put to much stress on that one screw , be advised i already broke it about 5 times and it's very hard to find another
Similar Products Used:
first
Bike Setup:
rst high 5,azonic shorty stem, azonic ultracross handlebar, sun mammoth with xt sealed rear hub , azonic kevlar seat,triple trap pedals, factory front rim
Bottom Line:
IT'S AN EXCELLENT BIKE EXCEPT FOR THAT DAMN SCREW
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Felix
a Weekend Warrior
from Walnut, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
bang for the buck. VERY GOOD DEAL. awesome shifting, fork, and rear shock. climbs ok, but this bike shines going downhill. very durable, i've had no problems with bushings on this bike. small amount of flex in swingarm. very durabel scratch resistant frame.
Weaknesses:
faulty headset( it kept on getting loose). i agree with Colby, the Tioga tires suck. the tires climb ok, but cornering and dh traction is no good. heavy swingarm.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Super V500, Schwimm Moab 2, Mt. Cycle San Andreas, Cheeta DH bike, Cannondale F700, GT Rebound.
Bike Setup:
stock ecxept azonic shorty stem, S&M platform pedals, Maxxis Mobster(2.35) front tire, Panaracer XC Pro rear tire. also flipped rear shock link to obtain 4.5" of rear wheel travel
Bottom Line:
very very nice bike and its a blast to ride. the tires MUST be changed, but other than that there isn't much more to complain about. 13' dropoffs are ok if you know how to ride them. if your going to be doing big stuff, a new wheel set will be needed if you don't know how to make the wheels stronger. high quality components and a good frame make this bike the best bike for $1000. the great frame allows you to upgrade. it would be 18 flaming chilis, but 5 is the max
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Fisher
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlottetown,P.E.I. , Canada Date Reviewed: April 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything on P.E.I.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
price,great parts, frame is very very good,front shock is realy nice, paint is good
Weaknesses:
the rear pivots will begine to have play after a couple of weeks.
Bike Setup:
better rear wheel, carbon riser bar, better pedals,
Bottom Line:
this bike is very good for what it is made for,it is made as a free ride bike. I got this bike because i broke my leg in january and couldn't train for racing so i had to take a year off. this bike made me very happy i could still ride anything that i tryed that suprised me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent Haeseker
a Cross Country Rider
from Florida Date Reviewed: March 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great all around value.
Weaknesses:
Brakes are squeeky.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I love this thing. This is my first full suspension bike and it's shown me what I always knew biking could be. It's incredibly addictive. I have a big smile everytime in hovers over a big log or cuts through rough terrian. There's alot of massive sugar sand in Florida and although I still sometimes get stuck, it does 10 times better than my old Schwinn hard tail. Very good for the money - I didn't think I would ever be able to afford a pro-quality full suspension bike til I found this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colby
a Weekend Warrior
from North Carolina Date Reviewed: February 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
All at Tsali
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
PRICE. component selection. Fork(marzocchi Z3LT). Excellent first bike. More then I imagined for the money.
Weaknesses:
A little to plush for my taste. A few suspension bolts broke soon after I bought. Heavy. Sqeaks like an old set of boxsprings(even after oiling). TIRES. No real complaints. Excellent bike for the money.
Similar Products Used:
First Bike
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock. Replacements:RF air alloy riser. UN72 BB. Specialized Body Geometry seat(please replace the seat for the sake of mankind). Panaracer Fire XC pro(please replace the tires for the sake of your knees and elbows. Tioga, whats up with these tires? No traction at all.) Sram 9.0sl drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
The bike is an excellent bike to start on. I was a little reluctant to spend that much on my first bike, glad I did. The components are great(made a few changes, see Bike Setup section above. The XT/LX worked fine, but it didn't take me long to find out I prefer Gripshift.) Went headfirst into this sport full blast. Hooked up with guys that ride five days a week. It didn't take long to realize I had to push my limits to even think about keeping up. This bike took anything I threw at it. Wasn't the best climber, but neither am I. A lot of bobing. And Sqeaking. But held its on with all my friends bikes. I am now moving on to a Santa Cruz Heckler, but would recommend this bike to all new riders wanting a kickass ride or experienced riders on a budget. Five flamers for the DBR X2. thx for thinking about the little guys Diamondback. Good luck with Raleigh merger.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
FreakRider
a Weekend Warrior
from Anchorage, Alaska Date Reviewed: February 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Price, component spec, very active rear and a bulletproof frame.
Weaknesses:
Some parts are worhtless, but at this price it is to be expected. I bent the cheap bars with my bare hands. Bushings were dry from the factory so I greased em up and now they are smOOOOth.
A great package to begin with and a totally upgradeable frame. I already had a Z-1 BAM so I traded the stock fork for an Easton Monkey Bar, Thompson seatpost, XT BB, XTR front der and some Plasma shifters. That alone took over a pound off of the 31 that my large started with and it was stronger in all the right places and it shifted SO amooth! The wheels didn't last long with such a bomber frame so I upgraded to a trick set of Hope discs with a BULB front and Ti-Glide rear. That along with a set of kevlar Contenental Vertical Pro's and a light set of tubes dropped another pound. The Vanilla in the rear gave way to a very nice Stratos Helix Pro that has all of the bells and whistles. I rounded things out with a FSA sealed bearing headset, a better seat and a real post clamp instead of that crappy quick release and the DBR is now totally trick. The REAL weight of my ride now is 28 pounds 5 ounces, not bad for such a bomber freakride. Now the ride. For a 28 plus pound ride this bike climbs very well. A smooth pedal stroke is all it takes to fly right up any hill, and we have some pretty awesome ones in Alaska. After moving to the Vert Pro's traction is unbelievable. They are about 2.2" (claimed width 2.3") and they grab everything. A Kevlar bead keeps them light and they roll really well for a fat tire. This thing just plows through technical trails with lots of roots, rocks, mud, bear poop or anything else that is on the trail. I call it a "point and shoot" ride, it mows over anything as long as you have a little speed. This is definately not a finesse ride, the rear is so plush and the Z-1 eats everything in it's path you don't have to choose your line, just keep cranking and the suspension does the rest. As you might guess it really shines when pointed downhill. Going from a Mantra to this is like going from rigid to a KX250. It bombs like nothing within twice the price, the rear eats everything to a dangerous point. I have never had so many hard crashes until I bought the X2. It is so smooth, you don't feel like you are going as fast as you are. Your buddies are the only ones that truly know how fast because they are always going to get left behind this baby. Plus, you can get even more out of the rear by switching link plates, something around 6", but this is considered illegal by DBR because the extra leverage puts a lot of strain on the rear shock, that is why I upgraded. I'm not a speed freak, but it sure does make DH runs alot more fun. I also bought a used Boxxer for $300 off of the MTBR Marketplace this winter, I really can't wait to get it out now! I am totally happy with my DBR, I rode everything in the $1000 price range and nothing within $700 even came close to the ride and spec. I have upgraded almost everything since I bought it except for the XT rear der, lx cranks and no name clipless peadals and I have just a little over $2000 into mine total. Besides, upgrading is the most fun you can have while not riding. This is really a frame that can do it all, if you are not a high level XC racer and you need a great bike to hit the trails with give the DBR "X" bikes a look. Be warned though, you will go faster with this bike, five flaming turds for my X2!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jock
a Cross Country Rider
from Evansville,IN,USA Date Reviewed: February 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything technical
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame is extremely well built. The component list is outstanding for the price. I paid $699.
Weaknesses:
The bike has a high rolling resistance compared to my hardtail,could be the Tioga tires. The bike came with the shock eyelet bushings totally locked up! The shock linkage plates did not have the proper clearence either, which left the rear end very rigid. Not a good climber.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the seat.
Bottom Line:
The bike is an outstanding value even with the initial setup problems. I am going to replace the tires to see if I can get my trail speed back up to my hardtail levels. I am quite perplexed with the lack of pedaling efficiency compared to my $100 Target special. Downhills are this bikes forte, the bike stayed straight over any obstacle, good stuff! If your looking to race XC like I am, this might not be the bike you want, but for everyday trail riding this bike is a good ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Doelle
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, Texas USA Date Reviewed: February 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The ability to take anything you throw at it and smooth it out. 10' sheer drops are taken in stride - you name it the DBR can make it easy.
Weaknesses:
Frame gets squeaky when you really "work it.
Similar Products Used:
Diamond Back V6, Cannondale Raven
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi forks, Titec, Mavics, the whole standard setup
Bottom Line:
This bike is made for work and it makes work seem like play. Even the most arduous task is made fun while spinning on this smooth bike. Add that to the fact that the black color with blue highlights will give anyone "frame envy" and you can see why I am so proud of parading this bike around on my roof rack. I am sold on DBR.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Waterloo, Canada Date Reviewed: February 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sweet Street/urban assault
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Extremely good value. Looks and rides much more expensive than it is. Extremely versatile. Rear suspension does a good job of isolating pedaling/braking from bumps. Fork just plain kicks ass. No maintenance for a year of stair drops and it works like new. Very nice bike overall
Weaknesses:
Frame durability. Some of the people that designed this bike aught to be shot! They speced the skinniest shock bolts I've ever seen. My mechanic said they reminded him of bottle cage bolts. I've broken and severly bent like 10 of them. The shock mount on the frame got bent my first downhill race. It's not too bad, but not exactly confidence inspiring. Pivots are very easy to work on, but they are very poorly designed. Lots of stiction and flex and they wear out quickly. The brutal rear wheel contributed to the flex. The fork, as kick-ass as it might be, weighs 4.8lbs, and yes it does bottom even with the preload set to full tight (I weight 138lbs). Could use adjustable damping for winter riding (it's too slow). All these things kinda suck, but then I remember the bike costs a thousand bucks and they seem to evaporate.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y, Treck VRX, Ellsworth Dare, Norco VPS1, Specialized Enduro/FSR XC, GT I-Drive, LTS, Kona Stinky
Bike Setup:
Urban Assoult set up: huge Black Spire rock ring, very short seat post, Bontrager FS+10 Race seat, Sachs PC-61 chain, stem pad, always long travel, always full tight.
Bottom Line:
This bike is a huge skill builder. When I got it, I was racing XC (2 wins), but now I'm content with 6 foot stair drops and North Shore type riding. Overall, excellent bike but it wears out fast. After a year of thrashing, it's worth nothing. Buy one every year and don't upgrade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Amin Latif
a Weekend Warrior
from Evansville,IN Date Reviewed: December 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Scales Lake...
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush Ride... Good Handling Stiff Super great price...$699 at Bicycle Loft...
I really like this bike....it perform almost same as my schwinn moab on climbing and better on descending......this bike can handle Scales Lake trail(i consider it very technical trail)I'm totally satisfied with this bike....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Alarid
a Cross-Country Rider
from santa maria, ca Date Reviewed: November 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Happy Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
strength handling comfortable cockpit
Weaknesses:
little heavy cable routing rubs on leg
Similar Products Used:
Klein Fervor Schwinn S-20
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Atom Bomb White Ind Cranks XTR Ders, Brakes, Shifters Nuke Proof/217 Wheelset, XTR cass Thomson Post Syncros Stem Salsa Ti QR's
Bottom Line:
This bike is a huge improvement over the URT design of the Sweet Spot I was using and light years ahead of my Klein hard tail. Awesome handling, goes where I point it in (almost) any trai situation. White Ind. cranks a little under-geared for the XTR cassette but the 20t front cog is hard to beat for pure granny situations. The Atom Bomb fork is shorter than the Z-3 and it shows. All in all I love this bike, it's a shame they were only in production for one year.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Weekend Warrior
from Albany, NY Date Reviewed: November 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Thatcher Park
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Price, front fork.
Weaknesses:
Rock hard seat, tires (too slippery), handlebars (Uncomfortable) .
Similar Products Used:
Sorrento SE
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Can't beat the price, quality, and fun ratio. I have never ridden a full floater before and love it. I just could not pass up the rediculous price of $699.00! The bottom line is that this bike is a blast to ride. I don't have to go around rocks, or logs anymore...I just go over them, without effort. The sus. just soaks it up. I can't wait to get back out there in the woods.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David in Austin
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: October 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
listed in previous post
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
$$$, componentry, handling
Weaknesses:
weight, seatpost, saddle, riser bars, rims, tires
Similar Products Used:
see previous post
Bike Setup:
stock, except for Thomson seatpost, Specialized Body Geometry saddle, Mythos tires, better Mavic rims, clipless pedals, cat-eye computer, non riser bar, w-bar ends, new chain
Bottom Line:
Took about 1.5 lbs off from previous set up. Got the cheap specialized V-seat, will relace with the comp model, lighter, skinnier. Keep a set of 2.1's for semi-downhill rocky stuff, change out to 1.95's for hard pack xc. Great bike. Ffor this price, even with a few minor upgrades, you can't go wrong. Ii don't think the 2000 models will be near as plush for the $$$....just wish I could have found the black model.......
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Babbar
a Cross-Country Rider
from Long Island, NY Date Reviewed: October 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Syosset greenbelt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Bullet proof pretty much sums up this package. That durability is not without a price, however. The package weighs in at 30+ pounds for the small, but with the $$ savings over comparble rides, you have plenty of room to (lighten) customize the package at a later time. $ 950 is a ridiculous price to get quality (lx/xt) drivetrain and Avid (better than Shimano) components. It eats anything I throw its way. Seems to almost like it. Great geometry when you find out how to ride and carve the trails.
Weaknesses:
Weight. Simply, think light when replacement comes around. XC riser bar has to go- and did. Save a third of a pound here for $25.
This bike kicks ass!!! I hit the trails (almost everyday) *HARD* and this bike sucks it up. The z3 is fab (aside from weight), climbing is great, steering great (for 100mm). Quality parts and a ridiculous price.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross-Country Rider
from Albuquerque Date Reviewed: October 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Lone Pine @ Cedro Peak
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great Geometry Bullet Proof Frame
Weaknesses:
Heavy compared to my DBR V-8
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Diamondback V-8
Bike Setup:
Noleen Carbon Crosslink front shock, Marzocchi Boss rear shock, Action Tec Ti BB, Topline Cranks, Hope Ti/517 front wheel, Hugi Comp/217 backwheel, XTR Drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
This review may not be the best for this particular bike because I bought it as a new frameset right here at mtbr.com. It does though show you how well this website works for building a superbike. All but the cranks,Easton handlebars, and tires were purchased on this website. With sales at Supergo and Cambria, I built this for $1680. It is $27 pounds of the most controlled pandamonium you could ever imagine. For the frame: 4 1/2 Chilis (heavy), for this website 5 chilis!
Overall Rating:
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