Submitted by
dangerous dan
a Cross Country Rider
from san mateo, ca Date Reviewed: December 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
love 'em all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
used from a friend
Strengths:
Good looks, moderate weight, durable, well balanced, fun to ride! Climbs, turns, and descends well. Good for beginners to experts.
Weaknesses:
Nothing major. Could use another inch of travel and more control out of the forks on fast and bumpy trails.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Shimano Deore cranks, LX shifters, brakes, and derailleurs, Rock Shox SID forks, Fox Float R Shock, Cane Creek wheelset, Mythos XC tires.
Bottom Line:
AWESOME bike - especially for the price i paid (bike was practically unridden). I'm no MTB pro, and have little experience on mtn. bikes, but have tons of experience on two wheels. I took to this bike like a duck to water. I ride the most technical and aggressive trails i can find and I LOVE this bike. I bought it as a cross trainer for motocross riding and roadracing, and have now gotten hooked on pedaling. I'm sure there are better bikes out there, but all in all, this bike does it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
che campbell
a Cross Country Rider
from denholm Date Reviewed: November 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the three brethern
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
second hand - frame + shock £300
Strengths:
Takes anything you throw at it. Great adjustability. Fast as a ferret down those hills and not too bad up them.
Weaknesses:
Bought mine second. Think the bushings were already worn. Have upgraded rear suspension bushes to a bearing kit. What a difference. Plusher, with less play on rear wheel. Stuck a psylo on the front and hope minis. No-one can touch this bike.
Bike Setup:
Float rc rear shock. Psylo on front. Hope minis. Mavic F519's on deore disc hubs.
Bottom Line:
Although I have had a lot of trouble with the bushings, I'll put this down to buying second hand. Cannot fault performance. This bike eats the trail and with a psylo on the front makes it an excellent free-rider. For an all rounder, look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Niko Reyer
a Downhiller
from Benicia Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Rockville
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
From a friend who wanted a better bike
Strengths:
Sweet color-sweet fork-sweet setup handles great on jumps and drops. Won't break too often but hey, it's cheap. Endos like none- other. Great for fast, sketchy, jumpy trails.
Weaknesses:
I broke the frame within a coule of months of buying it from my friend. Got it warrentied and replaced for free! The bike has a skrewy geometry so you can't pull up so good. The balancing point for wheelies is hard to master. The brakes and wheels are bad and I just replaced them (well, my friend actually did).
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Chris King hubs, Hope and Hayes disk brakes, titec stem, sunbeam rims, Bomber fork.
Bottom Line:
Sweet on jumps and drops. What my friends do with 9" travel bikes, I do on my '99 DBR XR4. Great for endos and on trails. Not to bad as far as having to maintain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Gilmanton, NH Date Reviewed: March 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Piche's Ski and Sport
Strengths:
Lightweight, good suspension, great trail bike, good price, good component selection.
Weaknesses:
Stock rims, handlebars, brakes.
Bike Setup:
Formula B-4 Hydraulic disc brakes, Titec Hellbent Riser bars, Mavic X317 Disc rims w/XT disc hubs, new XT front derailleur (broke original by random rock hitting it).
Bottom Line:
Excellent all-around trail bike. Get rid of weak rims as soon as possible though. I originally bought it as a starter bike because of the low price, now I do everything with it. Buy it if you want a good all around trail bike. Might not be the absolute lightest, but it's not heavy. Be carefull if you want to put disc brakes on there is some problem with the rear end that require some adjustments.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
FacePlant
a Racer
from San Mateo CA Date Reviewed: March 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs point
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Talbots Bikes
Strengths:
Supurb XC racing Platform. excellent trail bike too. great handling, climbs like a billygoat on meth, carves singletrack like a straight razor through butter.
Weaknesses:
not one I can think of yet...
Similar Products Used:
specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Full ESP, Race Face Next LP, Chris king HS, Magura HS33, Sinergy SPOX, LP bar. very very very light for a bike that has up to 41/2" of travel in the back, weighs 24 and change.
Bottom Line:
this frame set is the bomb-diggity. in it's stock configuration it was excellent, now with the upgrades... whoo boy. I set the bike up as my XC race bike I won't ride her on a daily basis anymore ( I have an X2 for that now, heavy bike- good for training. same frame tho) the bushings lasted for two years, the only reason why I replaced them is I work in a shop and I managed to aquire a set for free. the rear end had no play in it at all. I just felt like doing it for fun. the bushing kit should retail at around 40 bucks the key to making the bushings in the X links last is to MAKE ABSOULUTLEY SURE the piviots are Tourqued down to Manufactuer's Spec. if they leave the shop a little loose, the bushings'll die in no time. this is the responsability of the shop not Diamondback, (the rear shock is shipped seperate to the frame in the box) any negative review on the bushing life of these bikes is a reflection of the person that assembled the bike. bear in mind that Though I do work at a DBR dealer I bought this bike before I worked there. if you are looking at one of these in the 2000 model year, grab it- different spec than 1999, but still a sweet bike at a sweet price
Five Flamin huffys for the XR-4!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allan Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from NY NY USA Date Reviewed: December 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Huber Woods, Hartshorne, NJ
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1099.00
Purchased At:
Dsports in Poughkipsee NY
Strengths:
lightness handling color nimbleness durability no p bob
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Hard tails, Spec Enduro, GT dualies
Bike Setup:
stock, tenacious D bars, toooth fairy ring protector,
Bottom Line:
I did not like this bike at first, then after many rides ( and ability getting better ), I now love this thing, steers great, the rear lockout is sweet going uphill. Can scream downhill on single tracks. It takes alot of punishment. The Downhill bars and shorter stem make the large(20") frame very manageable....i am 6'1/2" and 215pds(yeah i am losing weight- was 235 when i bought it)... it is my first dualie and now i have more confidence than before. Thinking of putting discs on it.......but it is so much $$$$$$$$...... may wait and get a bike with them on already ......the price was right on this $1700msrp bike...and it won MBA mag "trail bike of the year in '99" ....so ....i learn about the bike capabilites each time i go out...2x/week...they have the '00 DBR XR-4 is $999 at Supergo now......diff part this year(read= cheaper). no Atac pedals, no lockout, no SID fronts....still it is a very goood buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: August 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Everything with big rocks
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Strengths:
Shocks, Frame, Stability, Control, Climbing, Hovercraft feature on downhill
Weaknesses:
Factory wheels with the alloy nipples and lightgauge spokes snap on third ride, tires crappy, but who cares.
Bottom Line:
ANYBODY WHO SAYS THIS BIKE IS TOO HEAVY IS F***ING OUT OF THEIR MIND. SPEND THE MONEY YOU SAVE ON LIPOSUCTION, BECAUSE YOUR FAT ASS IS 90% OF THE WEIGHT.
This bike is perfect. It is hard to imagine anything better. It climbs like a bat out of hell, especially over the rocky streambeds and trails we ride. It goes downhill with awesome control and contact with the ground even when riding over baby heads at 30 mph. You absolutely can't go wrong unless you think spending thousands more to save half a percent of the total weight is worth it.
Us coloradans have no trouble riding up steeps, maybe its the thick air down at sea level that makes you west coasters such whiners.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arnold
a Cross Country Rider
from MN Date Reviewed: June 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
slick rock
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good climber, Good handling, Good price, Light, Good parts
Weaknesses:
Takes a bit to get used to the long frame, but works great when you adjust to it.
Great bike, much better than Cannondale or GT F/S design, light (especially after upgrades), very fast, best climber yet, best bang for the buck, picked mine up for $1090, and now is about 24 lbs. This bike just flat out hauls up and down hills. Great handling in the twistys. Ya the paint chips but who cares! No problems encountered yet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: May 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything scary-fast
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Components, shocks, overall weight, long tt makes for easy climbing, ability to tune exactly to rider needs, price, design allows for efficient pedaling
Weaknesses:
decals are poorly applied, very low availability,
Similar Products Used:
FSR,Mantra,Jackyl,raven
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike, very resonably priced, solid, no pogo effect even on strong sprints, very lite for a full suspension,real fast. If you can find one, buy it quickly. Best bargain one can find on this caliber of bike. Comes with great equipment. This is what some would refer to as a Dream Bike. If you are looking for a great all-around race readt sled, this is the one to buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jo black
a Cross Country Rider
from sedona az Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
stout frame and rear triangle very solid square/rectangle bar construction like you find on custom jobs,fox float,long wheel base,long toptube
Weaknesses:
sid,tires,radial laced front rim,pathetic grips,hoooorable flaky paint on rear triangle
Similar Products Used:
fsr pro,extreme,prolfex 756
Bike Setup:
stock the,5 " z1bam,r kujo on a 36 hole rlite,f tioga factory dh mavic 221,risers.angled stem,serfas duel density saddle
Bottom Line:
tough litte freeride machine.@ 31 lbs a bit heavy for straight xc on packed dirt trails.the seat stay rear linkage gives an amazingly plush ride.more power loss than the horst link for example.bombs dh.terrific traction.sids a joke blew it after a few tame rides.fox float is perfect.have over 4000 + hard pounding rocky trail miles since may 99.need to use the long travel cause the short makes a ridiculous bb of 11.75".rear triangle exhibits no flex in turns. bushings are sloid low maintainance and precision made.jumps well.a little slow (turning) and heavy for straight xclite.70 degree head angle is just right for rugged xc/freeride.bike takes everything i can dish out.screams for more.long tt make it a stretch for short folks.the small is almost a medium.if your a medium to large guy who has power to spare and enjoys a safe comfortable ride over the nastest terrain, it'd be hard to find a better buy or ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave elton
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver Canada Date Reviewed: January 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
alpine ridge, Paul Hogan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Weaknesses:
Those silly tires
Bottom Line:
I've ridden this bike now for about 5 or 6 months and this is my second review. I'm a very poor student who has no money and so this bike really hit the spot, and I am more than satisfied with the product. I would however like to make a comment upon the unsatisfying nature of the tires:
OKAY TIRES, YOU'VE WIPED ME OUT ONE TOO MANY TIMES. YOU INSIST ON GOING SO FAST, AND THEN YOU WIPE ME OUT ON THE CORNERS!!! *&!!!@@#% OUCH!. THE ONLY THING THAT I CAN THANK YOU FOR IS WEARING OUT SO FAST SO THAT I COULD REPLACE YOU. I'VE THRASHED THIS BIKE BECAUSE OF YOU, YOU BASTARDS!!
Now that I have found new tires, I must say that my riding is indeed pleasant. I take the corners with more confidence, and they are not wearing out instantly. DBR, find another tire to put on you bikes, those tires suck. The bike jamms, five chilies. I wish that there were ten chilies to choose from, I would give it a 9 1/2.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gabe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: December 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Backbone
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Overall weight Long top tube Price
Weaknesses:
Air shock Steep swithbacks Tire choices
Similar Products Used:
Spec FSRXC
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z-1 upgrade
Bottom Line:
This bike is very stable at high speeds. Climbs the steeps well & very comfortable on the drop-offs. The long top tube makes it harder on the steep switchbacks. The air shock isn't as smooth as a coil-over, but does save some valuable weight. Overall, in the last year, i've enjoyed it thoroughly, with no major complaints.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stu
a Cross-Country Rider
from W. Orange, Nj Date Reviewed: December 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Secret Trails of the infamouse South Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light weight! out of the box @ 26lb's for 16 hungh. Can't beat it
Weaknesses:
I do find that on the rocky, rooty trails of N.J. where I ride, the pedals hit objects frequently. I find that I must over inflate the rear shock to compensate. I have also found that going from Shimano 636 pedals to the slightly smaller 545 pedals has eliminated most of this pedal drag I am experiencing
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Homegrown Full suspension (sweeet spot design). DBR V-Link V-6
Bike Setup:
out of the box!
Bottom Line:
This bike and its suspension design is one of the best you can get for the money. If only the pedals would not hit the ground as frequently as I find they do,It would be the best all around bike, worthy of any upgrade.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kirk
a Racer
from miami, fla Date Reviewed: November 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
for the price, original componentry delicious.
Weaknesses:
frame design, rear shock, headset.
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr, klein mantra, intense tracer
Bike Setup:
oem
Bottom Line:
while most of the components are among the industry's finer products, the frame looks like a compressed pretzel that adds one too many inches of unnecessary tube weight. a cane creek ad-10 rear shock would have been a better fit for the same cost if only diamondback had contracted with them. since the cost value of this range of compenentry is not unique, you can do better with frame weight and design with most other factors assumed equal.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gabe Haley
a Weekend Warrior
from Idaho Falls, ID Date Reviewed: November 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
enerything that's rideable
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
every thing, the Fox rear shock, the Rock Shox SID, the climbing ability of this bike, it's ability to do anything any everything that you want it to, as long as you have everything set up right, 3 inch or 4.5 inch travel setting
Weaknesses:
with the standard componentry of the bike, it's wheels, tires seat, grips, can't leave it alone outside anywhere, not even locked up, it's going to be stolen, the extreme weather changes that I experience here (hot to cold) overnight makes the air in the shock and fork expand and contract, there for, losing air
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR and FSR-XC, Diamond Back DBR X-10, Schwinn Factory Homegrown, Gary Fisher Joshua F-2, Everything that Trek Makes, Cannondale Raven 1000
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox SID, Fox Floar R with lock-out, new Specialized body geometry seat, Specialized S-Works, rims and hubs on the front and back, Specialized team tires, Specialized S-Works grips, Control Tech stem and headset, new blue fender, I love it, keeps the mud out great and looks cool, TIME ATB pedals, Specialized team shoes
Bottom Line:
No, I'm not another bike shop posting this review. I love this bike. Yes, there are better out there, but nothing even comes close with the componentry and price. I love the adjustability of the travel, the climbing ability, when I have to go into a sprint, I reach down and lock it out, and the power seems three times what it was earlier. I took this into the local bike shop to get some air put in the shock (not the same one I bought it from) and within five minutes there was a group of ten workers around it. This was a Specialized and Trek shop and they started commenting and pointing out everything. They loved it and it blew them away when they heard the price, $1600. This is an excellent bike that anyone, even a pro racer can appreciate. I'm planning to put a lot of miles and hours on this thing, many of them on the race course. I will update again in a few months whem I have more off-road experience with it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
G-MAN
a Racer
from Santa Barbra VA Date Reviewed: October 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
tunnel trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great price great componets great ride
Weaknesses:
rear shock,tires
Similar Products Used:
FSR xc I-drive
Bike Setup:
mavic wheels STRATOS shock with lock out
Bottom Line:
love the bike its fast up and down and it will not brake in half like ever santa cruz that iv seen
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
davey crockett
a Cross-Country Rider
from vancouver canada Date Reviewed: September 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Paul Hogan, Cypress mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great components great shocks great frame design
Weaknesses:
can't find any, not with the price I paid
Similar Products Used:
team marin kona hot
Bike Setup:
shop
Bottom Line:
I haven't bike shopped for a long time when I bought this bike and figured that I would just be buying a nice h/t. I never really did like the way f/s rear pogos, but i saw the rear shock lock, the nice components and price, i went with the xr4. It hasn't let me down in the slightest. my old h/t was lighter, but only by about three pounds, I gladly take the weight. I also was locking off the suspension at first, but after some hard-core rides, I just peddle nice and steady and it just cruises, up or down. The tires have little to be desired, but i fixed the brake set-up and the gears and there is no other problem. the ride is the best I've ever experienced. If you only want to spend 1500, this is the bike, no question. I researched all the other bikes, and this was the freak that gave me all the value for the buck. I guess they are all gone now, I got the last one.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from Utah Date Reviewed: September 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great shocks, Value, color
Weaknesses:
small is a medium, could loose a pound
Similar Products Used:
all
Bottom Line:
Very nice value for the money. would be nicer with Mavic 517 revolution spoke with Nukeproof, xtr crank. Love the color.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Buck
a Cross-Country Rider
from Cincinnati, OH Date Reviewed: September 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ceasar's Creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Nimble, and not really all that heavy for a full sus. bike
Weaknesses:
Paint Chips, as before, could lose a pound, should come with a decent pump for the shock
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale, Schwinn
Bike Setup:
Stock except for nuke proof wheels and cane creek saddle. I also added bar ends
Bottom Line:
I raced this bike for the first time (bike and rider) yesterday. My buddy who always busts on me for riding a full sus. bike had to really hammer to stay 1 second ahead of me at the finish. Learn to pedal smooth and you can't tell it's full suspension (unless you lock out the shock and let the bumps remind you they're there.) I agree that the paint job needs work, although it looks great despite the chips. Oh well, can always get it repainted. I'm only posting this to stay objective about the bike. It isn't the lightest, greatest bike, but if you have a budget and want a real race worthy, fs bike, you ought to at least give this one a look . . . if you can find one. I think it says something that there are few around (they don't stay in stores long.) Any prospective buyers having trouble finding one may want to call West Chester Cyclery @ 513-777-9742. They have one in stock last I checked (I feel they're charging too much @ MSRP + $100, but maybe they'll work with you to move it.) Enjoy, I know I do. I haven't found a product that is perfect therefore probably won't give 5 stars.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross-Country Rider
from Escondido, CA Date Reviewed: August 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Isrial
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Fron Shock, Rear Shock, Frame, Handling
Weaknesses:
Tires, SOMETIMES the brakes
Similar Products Used:
GT, Jamis, Access, Voodoo
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
An overall great bike. Tires need to be changed out, though, because they are Geax brand. This means that they wear down quickly and have an overall bad tread to begin with. On another note, I would like to comment on how this bike is by no means too heavy. All the reviews that make this claim are either hardcore racers who are used to their $5000+ bikes and forget to see that this is a superb bike for the $1200-1400 price range, OR complete idiots who like to trash other bike reviews to further their own egotistical outlook on their own rides. This bike isn't even mine; it's my friends, and I love it. I myself ride a GT Full suspension thermoplastic w/XT.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: July 30, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Perfectly well balanced bike. Very predictable handling and clibes like a dream.
Bottom Line:
I've had the bike now for a little over 6 mo. This is the best ride I've ever had. I've owned many bikes, still own many bikes, and this one seems to get the bulk of the action. -And the price is right too! The one big negative with this bike is that if your not at least 5'10, the small XR4 would be too big. I am 5'10 and the small size fits perfectly. DB should do a bit more work on the sizing of this bike. But overall, I'm all smiles and no regrets.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe
a Weekend Warrior
from indiana Date Reviewed: July 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything that presents a challenge
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
good frame, suspension plush and reliable climbs like a champ downhills better,on single track it was great, I smoked my friend on his Y 33 and my brother on his Ibis Szazbo
standard diamondback xr-4 with sid xc fork and fox air vanilla RC with lockout rear
Bottom Line:
I am a novice, a weekend warrior, I don't work at a bike shop of any kind. I have raced three times placing respectably each time but not winning. I have just recently deciced to get a new bike and I am shopping around right now. My choice will for sure come down to the xr-4, The Klein Mantra, or the xr-8. riding this bike was a pleasure and an adventure.The suspension is plush but it is true that the Rockshox Sid xc is high maintenance in some ways it is good and reliable and absorbs the hit incredibly well. I got on this site to post this review and to look through other peoples bike reviews. Now the Diamondbackxr-4 is a great bike not perfect mind you but as close as you get for the money. I would personally recommend that anyone looking for a good full suspension bike that is race worhty and will get you in and out of the single track backwoods day in and day out take a serious look at the xr-4, the xr-8, and the 1.0.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lou
a Cross-Country Rider
from Brattleboro, VT Date Reviewed: June 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bellows Pipe
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light weight, good climber for FS, Great quality, good value
Weaknesses:
none found yet, though may upgrade to disc brake & sacrifice some weight
Similar Products Used:
DBR X-6, numerous GT's
Bike Setup:
Size med., rear shock @170lbs pressure
Bottom Line:
Fantastic bike for the money, suspension very adjustable and relatively easy to set up. Highly recommended if you can find one.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chase
a Weekend Warrior
from Friday Harbor Date Reviewed: May 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
PHX has the best trails
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
cost, rear lock out, weight, rims, XT LXparts
Weaknesses:
SID light but bombers are better if you don't care about wieght
Similar Products Used:
X2, trek VRX, gaint DS1
Bike Setup:
tested a large am buying a med
Bottom Line:
this is the best FS bike on the market for the price/perfomance ratio period
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: May 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Walker Ranch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great all around bike Climbs well Descends better Sweet suspension once set up
Weaknesses:
9-speed more fussy than 8 Avid brakes stop quick, but need frequent adjustment
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR-XC
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
The bike is great all around. I've been surprised how well it climbs and how well it does on road sections: very little bobbing. The overall feel of the bike is more cross-country on steroids than downhill . Very strong down washboard fire roads, single track, water bars.If you are looking for an ultra-light racer buy a Litespeed or a Homegrown hardtail. You will save 4-5 pounds and zip up everything, but on the way down, you'll have less fun. If you want an all-around bike that is a great value, this is the bike. This bike is race-ready for the beginner or sport class rider. Sizing: I am 5'9 and I demoed a medium and bought a small. I made the right choice. The small fits about the same as my 17 Trek hardtail. I would guess folks up to 5'11 could ride a small.Settup: I followed the directions in the manual for my weight, and it was pretty close for all around riding. I'd suggest getting the air dialed in first then using the damping adjustments for particular rides. Front and rear shocks have held air fine, though the Supergo shock pump is not good: the coupling leaks air on the fork.If I could change anything, I might shell out some money for better wheels and upgrade the brakes to Avid Arch Deluxe, XTR or disc in front.If you can find one, and you want to spend less than $2000 for full suspension, it is hard ot beat. If you have more $$, buy the Stumpjumper M4 or the XR-8.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Slade
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Diego,CA Date Reviewed: May 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
Paint chips off super easy everywhere. Blew the sid up twice the last time it has been at rock shock for a month. The bike does not handle properly with the shock set with no sag because the head flops pretty bad. Besides let's face it, the sid sucks, flex is very bad and the thing is so unreliable that you have to carry a pump on your rides. Do yourself a big favor and put on a fork worthy of the bike like white bro's a or a bomber. I highly recomend a 70mm travel fork over a 80mm or at least set up an 80mm with lots of sag, if do you will have to settle for a mushy front end but the bike will carve sigle track much much better. The difference in handling is quite considerable. With the lower head tube the bike turns into a single track screamer. After all, the xr-8 comes with a 70mm fork and it corners way better than the xr-4. I love the ride but dealing with all of the problems has become a drag. First I had to wait six weeks for the bike when dbr kept saying that I would get this week. The sid has been nothing but a flexy unreliable piece of _ _ _ _. So now I have not been able to ride the bike for a month. The paint chipping is so bad the bike looks like its been sand blasted and my lbs wants to send it back to db to get it repainted and that will take yet another month.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Canoga Park, Ca Date Reviewed: May 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Excellent price. Great shock combination.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS 2, LTS2000
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
At first I thought Diamondback, no way. But after a couple test rides and then noticing the price, this bike can't be beat. I needed a large frame with at least a 43 wheel base. Besides being one of a handful of bikes that meet that criteria, this bike has the added bonus of excellent control in the single tracks and a great shock combination, including the lockout on the rear. Would highly recommend a test ride on this bike. No regrets on this purchase.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sedona, AZ Date Reviewed: May 7, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
This bike is super stable uphill,downhill, gnarly cliff hanging boulder, root and ledge infested powdery trails. All that equipment for $1500? I love the machined walls on the rims for smooth braking, yummy.
Weaknesses:
Walmart bikes don't have grips this cheap. To take them off all you have to do is peel. The tires would be happier on a ten speed. I would not recommend this bike to someone under 5'5 It just won't fit because of the super long top tube on the small. Dumb 5 chillie rating. No product deserves a 5. The rating should be 10 flamers then people could be a little more objective. Sidney is a pain to set up and is flexy but you will notice and appreciate the light weight and hit absorbing capacity.
Similar Products Used:
K2 3000 Marin East something Proflex Beast DBRVlink Cannondale something 900 Jamis ? specialized FSR xc Schwinn urt o rama Breezer urt o rama A few others along the way.
Bike Setup:
Riser bars super wide for lots of leverage. But I do tend to eat bush with my arms. So what.
Bottom Line:
Man oh man sweeeeeet ride ! I've only had this baby for 2 weeks and 8 killer rides but let me tell you this bike kicks. Today I went on a 3 hour ride with 7 other guys and this baby allowed me to jam ahead and stay ahead. Up hill; The long top tube comes in real handy here because it keeps the front wheel glued to the trail and going in the direction YOU want it to go. The rear suspension (which I have set up pretty stiff) is active enough to soak up knarly trail anomalies and keep the rear wheel down and gripping and not deflecting you all over the place. This is the time when you will feel most of the power loss due to rear suspension but when you keep your power smooth you climb with the best of them. Weight is not an issue because it really does climb up and over stuff with impeccable balance and handling. Also, pick the bike up. Does it feel heavy to you? No it doesn't. But then maybe you are used to a flimsy sub 23 pounder, in which case I personally recommend that you not test or buy this bike. However, I can't stand the freaking crying by people who don't even ride!Downhill; Watch out drop offs and switch backs here I come. Oh yeah baby, this bike eats up scary super slippery and tight tight tight switch backs. You know the kind; you're on the edge of a thousand foot cliff descending through super powdery rock and drop off strewn single track 20 miles from the nearest ambulance. Cross country; Every single full suspension bike saps some energy through the pedaling effort. Every one. But I'll tell you what, I have ridden hard tails that sap more energy than this bike. It took me two rides to get the pedaling technique down (smooth and constant) and now I jam. The rear just squats down and your off with near zero pogo. At first I had to get used to the longer wheel base but I find that it is so stable through tight single track that it's a breeze to pick a line and hold it. Here in Sedona the average trail is a walk on the wild side and this bike just jams jams jams. I ride roads to trail heads and at first used to use the lock out on the rear shock but now that I have the pedaling tecnique down I don't bother because the cush is so nice and I can still fly. I'm giving it a five cause this rating system is kinda cheesy. The product deserves a good solid 8 to 8.5. A note to all nine speed newbies: The rear derailleur shifter will take particular care in set up and the adaptation of technique because the thumb shifter takes a lot of throw to shift even one gear up. Also, I have zero chain skip in rough terrain. The stickers come off easy but the paint job looks to be very good. The pivots are massive and feel solid lending to no lateral sway (the bane of many fullies). Actually the more I look at the machineing on the rear swing arm the more I'm impressed, it is really cool. The whole bike is really cool to look at. Especially after a ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
neo
a Weekend Warrior
from baltimore, MD Date Reviewed: May 7, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light (27 lbs for my large w/some upgrades), plush as hell, built like a tank
Bike Setup:
I got the bike almost-new (10 hours of use) from an ex-DBR employee. It was upgraded with XTR, carbon hadlebar, mavis crosslink wheels, and more. It weighs 27 lbs in large size. What kind of fool would think that is heavy for a FS bike?
Bottom Line:
I've owned this bike for three weeks and love it. My Klein hardtail hasn't hit the dirt since I got the DBR. It's funny, the one idiot (who goes by lots of names) with a vendatta against DBR is hurting his own cause. His baseless poor reviews have only managed to bring out all the true XR-4 owners to sing the praises of the bike. Take a look - at last count this bike had 65 reviews, almost twice as many as the secon-most-reviewed full suspension bike. Anyone who bothers to read the reviews can easily sort out the true XR-4 owners from the bozos who just want to slam the bike, so in the end this is probably the best-reviewed bike on the list. What kind of fool could think the MBA trail bike of the year actually is not good? Maybe you don't agree with MBA that its the best, but to go completely the other way and say it is not good is obviously the work of someone who either hasn't ridden the bike or is just a liar.Get one if you can find one.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sid
a Cross-Country Rider
from Danville, CA Date Reviewed: May 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any cool singletrack
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Great bang for the buck SID on the Front and a Fox Vanilla with lock out in the back, way cool.
Weaknesses:
Seemed a tad long in the top tube. Needs a Riser Bar
Similar Products Used:
I own a Intense Uzzi XC
Bike Setup:
Factory- Stock
Bottom Line:
Slap a riser bar on this bad boy and a shorter stem and I would take this bike in a second. Frame geometry is very similar to my Intense Uzzi and you get the whole damn bike for the cost of my frame. This would be a fun bike to ride just about anywhere.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peter
a Cross-Country Rider
from new york,ny Date Reviewed: April 27, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
great bike, great price, great ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Downhiller
from usa Date Reviewed: April 26, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Weaknesses:
wheels, brakes
Similar Products Used:
proflex, cannondale
Bike Setup:
switched to mavic 517 xtr brakes
Bottom Line:
Got this for $1,385. Except for the wheels and brakes, everything is works as it should. It rips going down. Some minor kink to work out but ride like a smooth limo.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Julie
a Cross-Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, Ca Date Reviewed: April 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
It begs me to ride it hard everyday.
Weaknesses:
I ride it hard so much that I'm always tired. Hard to find one.
Similar Products Used:
All of those big strong fullies
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
The bike is such a sweet pleasure to ride that I just can't get enough of it. I ride about 100miles a week and wish I could ride more but I have to go to work. This bike is very well balanced in low speed technical maneuvers. It is very similar to my Bonty in that you turn the bike, at slow speeds, by turning the handle bars rather than leaning. This gives you the advantage of cleaning super nasty switch backs, up and down hill, easier because you are able to stay upright through the turn missing trees, boulders etc. at the trails edge. Lets face it the bike is not a hard tail and wasn't designed to be one. However, it is so damn plush (i.e. active with A++ damping) that you can stay in the saddle all day long just ripping up the trails. Nasty rocky, ledgy drop off sections that usually beat the hell out me on my ht are so sweet that I actually go back and do those sections over again and look forward to hammering through the other nasty sections. I climb so well on this bike it is not even funny. On my ht I used to have to stand to keep the front end down and tracking straight while climbing and very often, because of my light weight, I would get boinged off the single track while jamming up steep rocky stuff. On my xr-4 though, I can stay seated and just pound up the roughest sections while staying in control the whole way. The peddling action on this bike is so smooth its kind of earie, honestly. I wish my Bonty felt this smooth. The rear shock is so cool that you can hammer on the peddles really hard and not have to worry about finding a cadence to match the suspension action. The SID front shock is a really nice piece of equipment because it is so plush and you can set it up any way you want (really hard or nice and soft). TBL is that this is one killer dude. Gotta go ridding.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Lee
a Cross-Country Rider
from Long Beach CA Date Reviewed: April 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Bang for the buck.
Weaknesses:
Tires
Similar Products Used:
FSR XC comp FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Best bike for the money. Can't beat the front and rear shocks plus LX/XT all at about 28lbs. Looks great too. Other bikes with similar specs at least $600 to $1000 more.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a Racer
from Snoqualmie Date Reviewed: April 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere I can ride!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Out of box race ready Price!Price!Price! Weight
Weaknesses:
Haven't found one yet!!
Similar Products Used:
FSR-XC Mantra Comp LTS-1 4-Bangar
Bottom Line:
Whoever gives this bike one chile is an idiot!! If you guys think a 25lbs bike is heavy than you need to be riding more. I think that you are all just out of shape. For $1600 there isn't a better bike out there that comes set up as well as this. Why don't you single chiliers go out there and spend an extra grand for a 24lbs FS and I'll be waiting with my XR-4 and the trophy at the finish line.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sam
a Cross-Country Rider
from wa Date Reviewed: April 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
pitty
Weaknesses:
super pitty heavy pitty weak frame pitty wheel
Similar Products Used:
marin, gt, santa cruz, ibis, specialized, cannondale
Bottom Line:
Pitty bike. I agree with some of the comments about this bike being Heavy and Weak. negative 5 stars. Funny how the DBR dealers post multiple 5 stars rating trying to sell this pittyfull bike. It's like the lemon car dealer of Yugo or Ford Escort posting multiple 5stars to try to trick the consumer in buying a lemon. What a pathethic joker of those pathethic DB dealer. What pisses me is the the DB dealer badmouth those with negative comments. Notice that the DB are being sold in TOY stores.. that's where they belong....just a bunch of cheaply made toy bikes for little kids. Before you go out and shell out more than a grand for one, demo it for a day or 2 and you will know what a sorry bike this is. 1st try to sprint with it, then climb a hill. Notice it doesn't peddle efficiently. Very much like riding a bike with weights dragging you down. Notice how the gear slip on own on rough terrain... Very dangerous. For those dealers yahooing this bike, try jumping off a cliff. Even the dealers do not own this sorry db bike. The dealer said it himself. For those that are not satisfy with this bike, post your comment and don't let the pittyful db dealer talk you out of posting your true opinion. You have the freedom to express. we even welcome comments from those pitty db dealer who are posting multiple 5 stars trying to skew the average higher increase their sales. Shame on you.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross-Country Rider
from Taiwan Date Reviewed: April 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Efficient Climbing, solid downhilling
Weaknesses:
It is said the yoke of the main pivot is not strong enough... but haven't found yet
Similar Products Used:
FSR Comp, ATX1200
Bike Setup:
RST Delta, DNM coil shock
Bottom Line:
I am originally a FSR fan. But now I am getting closer to XR-4. Though the bike is not as light as FSR, but the solid feeling while uphill or downhill is unbeatable. The longer top-tube helps climbing as well. Beautiful XC fully !!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DBR Dealer
a Cross-Country Rider
from USA Date Reviewed: April 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
component spec, WEIGHT (27 lbs is great for FS in the $1600 range), suspension-plush, active, and efficient
Weaknesses:
lightweight SID not for clydesdales
Similar Products Used:
How could anyone shave 5 lbs off this rig?!?! I wouldn't want to if I could!
Bike Setup:
Keep riding that Muffy or Roadblaster, and bring it back to Toys-R-Us when it breaks, not a bike shop.
Bottom Line:
Why does that person dislike this bike so much. Obviously most, if not all, of those negative reviews were written by the same ass. I'm sure he has never even thrown a leg over this sweet ride. Bottom line: IF YOU HAVEN'T RIDDEN THIS BIKE, KEEP YOUR COMMENTS TO YOURSELF!! The rest of us real riders have to wade through the shit to find honest, accurate reviews. I do not own this bike, but I am a DBR dealer, and have demo'ed it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bullwinkle
a Cross-Country Rider
from Reno, NV Date Reviewed: April 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Peavine
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
great components and weight for the money
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR XC gt xcr2000 Santa Cruz Heckler Rocky Mnt Element Race
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Been following this discussion for some time now and really don't get the hacking on the weight of this bike. Is there another f/s bike out there in this price range that weighs considerably less? The XR4 I demoed weighed in at just a touch over 27 lbs (size medium) The FSR XC came in about a quarter of a pound less, the Santa Cruz the same weight, the Rocky Mnt. was a bit over 28 and the GT was nearly 30. Am I missing something? If you want to spend three grand you can definately get a sub 25 pound f/s racing bike, but for those of us who can't the XR4 seems to be an awesome value.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
henry
a Cross-Country Rider
from nevada Date Reviewed: April 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
shocks
Weaknesses:
excess weight
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher, khs
Bottom Line:
5 stars for ride, Really negative-4 star for excess weight. Great flying downhill, can't argue with that!!! Not a cross country bike or racing due to the lbs. Sorry guys, but you can't have it both way.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alan
a Racer
from salinas, ca Date Reviewed: April 16, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
has brakes
Weaknesses:
heavy cheap wheel cheap frame
Similar Products Used:
gt
Bottom Line:
Can't ride this bike, too heavy. DB go back to your drawing board. For those that are stuck with this sorry-bike. drill holes on the frame and tire to make it lighter. Don't forget to bring your sails or a tow truck cuz that's the only way you can move this heavy thing.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross-Country Rider
from Provo, UT Date Reviewed: April 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
clementine loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
geometry, good standover clearance disco colors, good bike for $, can be a light bike, adjustable travel
Weaknesses:
disco colors, fork, 9sp drivetrain
Similar Products Used:
FSR, Kona
Bike Setup:
Z-2 fork, Fox rear
Bottom Line:
I will probably keep this bike for a while. I have it all tricked out w/ an LP bar, Plasma rear der. Tioga tires Bomber Z-2 fork. You can actually get 5 1/2 travel as long as you can keep it from bottoming out without going over the 300psi limit in the rear shock. Very nice ride. If I could give it six chilis I would.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ibeam
a Racer
from la, ca Date Reviewed: April 14, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
smooth ride
Weaknesses:
over weight sluggish
Similar Products Used:
GT, Cannondale, east peak, FSR, trek
Bottom Line:
If DB could shave off 5 pounds from this bike, it would fly. Nice ride going downhill, but not too excited about average trail blazing or going uphill. For those price conscous buyer, $1,350 is not bad for this type of bike, but true, there are others for less for about a grand. If you can wait until year end when they usually drop the price to around $1,100. Diamondback dropped their last year's V8 from $2,000 to $1,000.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtn hopper
a Cross-Country Rider
from sf ca Date Reviewed: April 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
all
Similar Products Used:
specialized, trek, cannondale, klein
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great value bike. Despite their grievance, I do welcome their view regardless of their weird remarks.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Heavy G
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Jose Date Reviewed: April 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I was lucky enough to find a used X4. This bike is superb. I can't wait for my next ride. The handling is crisp and confident inspiring. I see a chute that I would normally putt-putt through but now I bomb ahead.The bike is a bit heavy in climbing, no doubt about that. But everything in life is a trade-off. If I want to accelerate like crazy, I get on my hardtail for a while. But I've been spoiled by the comfort. For a long X ride, the X4 is the one.This bike is getting flamed alot by twerps. If weight is your primary driver, look elsewhere. By the way, I've test rode a Santa Cruz and it could not be hammered...it poggoed like crazy. The single pivot design is a poor comprimise in my opinion.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Arizona Date Reviewed: April 11, 1999
Proflex 856 (owned) Fsr-xc (demoed) Marin east peak (friends')
Bike Setup:
stock except for Rhyno lites.
Bottom Line:
This is a frame that is going to last a long time. IT IS NOT A SUPER LIGHT AND FRAGILE BIKE! I've seen and owned lighter bikes that could not take even moderate abuse before bending like an overcooked noodle. So if you want a lighter bike I challenge you to find one with these spec's at this price. Sure you could find one that weighs two pounds less but what are you paying for? A noodly frame and for $1400 you are going to get a cheapo fork and a cheapo rear shock. So... go ahead and spend well over a coupla G for a bike you have to baby until you want to sell it because the wheels don't line up any more.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stage
a Cross-Country Rider
from Westchester, NY Date Reviewed: April 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
I can tell you, but then I'd have to kill you.
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
XT/LX Mix Rapid Fire Shift Levers WTB Saddle SID & Fox Shocks
Weaknesses:
Shimano 9 Speed Jumping occasionally Geax tires for East Coast riding (Rocks, Mudd, Short & Steep climbs)
Similar Products Used:
Ibis, Cannondale, Voodoo
Bike Setup:
Shop Set up for my 145# weight.
Bottom Line:
Jamie, Upline(?), and the other Santa Cruz lovers have it all wrong. I think THEY WENT to K-Mart to buy their bikes because they didn't understand how much of a DEAL the Diamond Back XR-4 really is. I guess if they are only riding back and fourth to the 7-11 for Cigarettes, then they aren't real riders.The bottom line...The XR-4 responds superiorly to everything that I can throw at it. It decends with ease, climbs like a Goat, and soaks up the biggest air like a SPONGE!!! I don't think I could ride a hardtail again after this bike. For those of you that think this bike is Heavy, what can you get that's lighter in the same price range with the same or better components???
To the person who broke his frame...something happens, and no bike is perfect. Sorry to hear about your loss; But if it were a Cannondale that you were riding, you would have to check it for cracks after EVERY RIDE. If you broke a Cannondale after one year of owning it, that would be your tough luck. At least Diamond Back stands behind their product.
The only thing that I would really change on this bike would be the doughnuts (Geax tires). They are not aggressive enough for East Coast riding, and tend to slip and/or spin easily. Other than that, this bike is AWESOME!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
johny
a Weekend Warrior
from ny ny Date Reviewed: April 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
This bike is just a heavy siet.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paul
a Cross-Country Rider
from ma Date Reviewed: April 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Similar Products Used:
Trek
Bike Setup:
shop
Bottom Line:
It kicks, but a little too heavy and expensive.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Buck
a Weekend Warrior
from Cincinnati, OH Date Reviewed: April 4, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Solid, nimble
Weaknesses:
Could drop a pound
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale
Bike Setup:
Stock everything except Nuke Proof wheels and Cane Creek saddle
Bottom Line:
Don't listen to the Santa Cruz reps who're bad mouthing this bike. It's nimble and feels solid. I weigh 200+ lbs. but feel like I fly aboard this bike. For the price, you'll love it too.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento, ca Date Reviewed: April 2, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
trek, specialized
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Extremely nice bike. Very well designed and made to handle all type of terrain. Great for climbing as well as descending. Very plush both front and rear. Even though the weight is on the heavy side, doesn't feel like it. Mine's is around 27+lb. Could change to a lighter wheel/tube/tires to shave off a pound or two. Go buy one.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a Racer
from orange, ca Date Reviewed: March 31, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
paint very light compared 38lb huffy from ward
Weaknesses:
expensive junk $1.5k
Similar Products Used:
pacific huffy
Bike Setup:
luny toone setup ...the price that is.
Bottom Line:
Expensive overpriced junk at a local bike store. Only a few lbs lighter than my 38lb huffy. My Huffy out rides it anytime. Kmart is coming out with a similar model for only $150.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a Cross-Country Rider
from witchita, ks Date Reviewed: March 29, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
whole bike
Similar Products Used:
cannondale, klein, specialized, santa cruz
Bottom Line:
Tried it and hated it. Except for the shocks, everthings is not good big time. Only good for trip to local supermarket.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
troll
a Weekend Warrior
from La. Date Reviewed: March 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Lincoln Parish Park
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
frame build parts spec.
Weaknesses:
wheel set
Similar Products Used:
98 DBR v-link 99 DBR X-10 C-dale super V Trek Y5
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Very good bike. Belongs to a friend I ride with. I got a X-10. The XR-4 rides very well and climbs great. I really like the adjustability of the fork and shock. Should have come with better wheel set. other than that it gets 4 chi chis
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross-Country Rider
from So. Calif. Date Reviewed: March 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Wilson
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Components, handling, Ride.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
DBR X-2, FSR XC, XCR2000 & 3000.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike! Rides up & down everything I throw at it. I don't even notice the x-tra 1-2lbs. They probably don't even ride. The XR-4 did't make Trail Bike of the Year for nothing. Get one while you can.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trail Blazer
a Cross-Country Rider
from Carmel Date Reviewed: March 26, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
design shocks climb nice
Weaknesses:
heavy for xc shift jumping cheap wheel rear linkage tolerance
Similar Products Used:
cannondale, specialized xc, marin, santa cruz, klein, mongoose, trek
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Very decent bike. Takes time to adjust the shocks, but once set, it works great. If they would make this bike 2 lbs lighter or just make it at the listed weight of 26.5 instead of 28 or so. Periodic gear slippage, drawback of shimno 9sp maybe or rear linkage alignment freeplay problem. overall decent bike for a diamond back. I 've to agree with some of the commentator here about santa cruz and specialized xc as alternative to xr 4.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
upline
a Cross-Country Rider
from colorado Date Reviewed: March 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
this bike is not good, don't buy it cuz it's so heavy like a tank. All the Diamondbk lovers are whimps who buy their bikes from Toy R US....DiamondBack is good only for trip to 7-11 store. Don't buy db cuz you will be so sorry. Much like K-mart bikes but at a super expensive price. Go buy Santa Cruz like Jamie said. Go Santa Cruz go...the best mtn bike!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross-Country Rider
from CA Date Reviewed: March 14, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike, cant beat the spec for the price! As far as Jamie's review a few entries down, just look at the spelling. Maybe an indicator of that poor slob's intelligence. Substandard parts? I consider a SID and Shimano LX/XT as top drawer. Where do these people come from, Uranus?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
blazer
a cross-country rider
from ks Date Reviewed: March 5, 1999
Bottom Line:
Extremely nice bike. SUPER SUPER great out price at $1,350. Very plush and climbs like a charm. Very pleased and highly recommend this bike to anyone without concern for a slightly heavy bike 27-28lb bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jack
a
from ohio Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999
Bottom Line:
I agree with Brent that the bike is about 1 to 2 pound heavier than listed. I wish DBR would stop false advertising. Overall xr-4 has decent parts but it's HEAVY and it doesn't handle and rides as good as the new 1999 Specialized FSR XC which is on sale now for $1,100 (regular price $1,500) . I return xr-4 for a specialized fsr-xc. It rides like it's big brother $3,000 S-works M4 fsr. It's lighter and better handling and very good component XT and specialized. I rate xr-4 a below average but I would rate specialized fsr-xc A++++.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent
a
from cross-country rider Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999
Bottom Line:
This is my first foray into the dual suspension world and wow, what a difference. It makes riding seem so easy compared to my now relinquished hardtail. I bought this bike because it has the right parts, price, weight and looks. I’m not planning on replacing any parts soon, they’re just too good-SID, Mavic, Titec, FOX, LX-XT, Time, Avid. It seems like you’re going slower downhill because it’s so plush, yet it climbs so nimble uphill. It really surprised me going uphill because it’s so efficient, you can just sit and spin while it soaks up the bumps. There’s a lockout on the rear shock, but I’ve never used it, there’s no need to. This ride is as balanced as a tight-rope walker. I went for a 4 hour technical ride yesterday and my body feels fine, credit to the XR4. The bike frame is built to take punishment for the long-run; the downtube is gussetted and ovalized, check out the bottom bracket and pivot it’s one piece. This results in a stiff frame that doesn’t flex. My only complaint is availability, frame sizing and weight. None of the shops have them in stock. My size small 16 is really a medium as it has a 23 top tube, the measurements are off from what DBR claims. The weight is claimed at 26.5 lbs, but it must be a pound heavier. This bike isn’t intended for one specific type of riding (XC racing, downhill) because it’s built to do it ALL. DBR doesn’t hype this product (like other companies) because it speaks for itself. All in all this is one great bike, no wonder why it’s the Trailbike of the Year!Thumbs up: Frame build Product Specs Price Balanced RideThumbs down: Availability Frame Measurements Claimed Weight
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a cross-country rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: February 25, 1999
Bottom Line:
I guess I was right!!, This back did make trailbike of the year. As far as the lady that seems to hate this bike, and has a phoney return address, she must work for Santa Cruz or Kline,nNot a good way to sell bikes. Update: While adjusting my rear brake, I backed a screw out so far as to destroy it - oops!, so the new replacment XTR brakes look and work great. Also while climbing Cardiac Hill, I bent the rear cassette - oops again, I opted to go with the XTR Ti set up which ment I paid the differance (about $50.00) thanks Shamono!, Bascially, the bikes gets better and better, and lighter and lighter, So now not only do I have the Trailbike of the year, let's just say it's been enhacned.... 5 very hot chilies.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MBA
a cross-country rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: February 25, 1999
Bottom Line:
Read the article just below this. Jamie, a cross-country uninformed idiot from our good old USA, says that the XR-4 is a tank, well, mine weighs the same as the Heckler (not the superlight flimsy expensive model) and the same weight as the Klein at the same price which is $1600 not $1200 even though we all wish that it was that price. Jamie, with the false email address, I would like to ask if you rode the bike or if your are some dork gram counting roadie with a trust fund??? As for the parts, how do you explain the components alone add up to more than the bike costs without the frame included, huh, tell me??? Do a little riding a research before you fly off the handle and call the MBA '99 trailbike of the year a piece of scrap, let's see your hardtail.I have to give this bike once again 5 chilis due to the fact that I love mine, and the fact that this website lets us address uninformed people about the true aspects of a product.Talk to ya all later, hope that jamie never meets me on the trail, XR-4 will tear him a new one.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike H.
a cross-country rider
from PA Date Reviewed: February 25, 1999
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, I will never ride a hard tail again! This bike climbs better than my Trek 8000 hard tail, My friend bought a heavy Fisher and he hates it. IF you can find one buy it, you will love it. I love this bike !!!!!!!! I love mountain bike riding. Life is good!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jamie
a cross-country rider
from usa Date Reviewed: February 24, 1999
Bottom Line:
DO NOT BUY THIS BIKE!!! Weights a ton and along with many pittyfull problems. cheaply built. Climbs like a anchor and ghost shift. What a waste of $1200. Return tthe xr-4 for scrap metals and get a Santa Cruz Heckler or Klein. DBR xr4 S---S BIG TIME. Don't buy DBR XR4 cuz they most likely use substandard parts.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Smith
a cross-country rider
from CA Date Reviewed: January 27, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have had this bike since December 1, 1998, I wanted a full suspension bike that handled and felt like a hard tail. The FSR were way too mushy for me. This bike hit the spot!!, I love this bike from the first ride in the parking lot at the bike shop. I let go of the Geax tires which Diamond back must of gotten a a great price, there bad, really bad. I opted for the Volocerators 2.1, they work perfect!, I replaced the rims with the Mavic 517's another good move and I also put the Time Attack carbon peadels from my hardtail which makes the bike a ture 26.5 pounds (med frame). I am 5'9 and this bike feels like my hardtail on steroids. My hardtail has a Bomber Z2 on it, so to get the SID to work as well took a few weeks of adjusment, I have 55psi positive and 90psi negitive, the trick to making this shock work well is the rebound and compression adjustments, you will need to slow the rebound down so it does not catch in the ruts. the shock now works great but it's a little weak, but worth the wieght trade-off. The rear shock works really well too, at 180 lbs, I have 115psi which works well in all condition. I used the rear lockout once and loved it, but you should hardly ever need to lock this unti out, since the bike is so perfectly balanced. I love the colors and as the last of all my friends to buy full suspension bicycle they are drewling with envey. This bike kick butt! I expect it to be bike of the year... I have kept my hardtail just to hang on the wall as a piece of art.... sorry Stumpjumper.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a racer
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: January 20, 1999
Bottom Line:
This replaces my stolen 96 DBR V-Link ProOK I have had it 4 weeks and done 264kms on it and done one Expert level XC raceNice bike and well speced excellent value for money...My only issues are a) the claimed vs real weight b) no bar ends. The frame seems a liitle over built for a XC race bike so prehaps more weight could have been saved here c) prehaps a choice of more than one colour !Therefore I give a 4 star rating for these reasons and the fact there is always room for improvement.Otherwise I am very pleased with it. Its better than a Specialised FSR XC because it has more bang for buck, has more travel and has a disc brake mount on the rear
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a cross-country rider
from Calif Date Reviewed: January 18, 1999
Bottom Line:
very nice bike (for annop, mine is a 20.5 and it's 27 lbs). the rear shock is the best available for xc riding and the front fork is close to the best, and this is only a $1399 bike($1599 retail)! it's got a long, long top tube, decent parts, and it was almost ready to go from the shop. i switched from the time pedals as my other bike has spds, and i switched the geax tires after one day to mythos as they were the worst tires i've ever ridden. it handles very, very well. we'll see how well it holds up. i'd give it 5 chilis if it came with full xt and better wheels, hell i am going to give it 5 chilis as for the price it can't be beat.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Annop
a
from Thailand Date Reviewed: January 18, 1999
Bottom Line:
Dave, I wanna know the exact weight of yours. Heard xr8 is almost 28 ibs!!! Anyway, I'm waiting to get one in my country. Hope my importer is working on them!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M.B.A.
a weekend warrior
from Aurora, Colorado Date Reviewed: January 18, 1999
Bottom Line:
Finally got my new XR-4, I've been waiting about a month and a half while my friend stomped my ass with his Stumjumper XC Comp. But now its my turn, so look out Phil. So far I am the only one in the region with this new XR series bike, and all I can say is that it rules on the climbs and the downhills. So long hardtails, time to become relics of the past as far as my friends and I are concerned.Both the SID and the FOX are top of the line shocks and both perform extremely well, I have the medium sized bike and I upgraded the wheels to Mavic Crosslinks (on the XR-8) and swapped the pedals for a set of Frogs. The bike now weighs 26.5, the brochure claims this weight without upgrades but that must be the small framed XR-4. Marketers are idiots and can't read scales. Shimano? What the hell is your problem, the nine speed skips a gear or two and I havn't been able to tune the rear derailleur so that it won't jump on me, anyone got any suggestions, write my email and tell me the trick to getting this thing to work flawless. The nine speed idea is great but I think the chain is too narrow and the tolerances are too close, thats why it jumps around.Well, once again, the future bike of the year is finally starting to show up in the dealers show rooms, only the stumpjumperXC has any hope of beating it out, hell I could be way off in la la land also. What do you guys think. Price and components can't be beat, and the ride is very nice. Five chiles from me. Hope the guy in Thailand gets his, he will be the talk of the Country !!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a racer
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: January 14, 1999
Bottom Line:
I've had the DBR XR4 for 3 days. I'm 5'11 and this bike is size small 16' and it fits like a glove. My previous bike was a 96 GT LTS 2 18'(to big)with DH judy's. This bike kicks its asre both uphill and down. This front sids are plush as hell! Flex? I have no brake rub up hill so its not to bad (as good as my DH judy's but way plusher). The rear shock is the top of the line fox air lockout shock!!!!!!! HHHMMMMMM nice! the adjustment on the rebound is so much you can have is super tight for cross country or super plush for DH without adjusting air pressure. The lock out mech on the shock is a novelty, but it does make it easier on hill were a Hardtail is fast. The best thing about this lockout mech is if you dont have time to unlock it before a big hit it has an inbuilt blowoff valve (that mean the shock with move and it wont get destroyed like other lockout designs). If I had to pick one word that describes this bike I would pick:- NEUTRAL The wieghting of this bike is so neutral its not funny, it just does things so effortlessly without fuss. This front doesnt kick and the back doesnt buck its sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet. Its time to go too much typing and not enough riding. Later.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank
a cross-country rider
from Edwards, CA Date Reviewed: January 3, 1999
Bottom Line:
I'm looking into buying a DBR XR-4. I only see one rating in here. If you own one, please email me and let me know what you think. There are no bike shops around here to test ride one, and I don't want to spend so much money without knowing what I am getting. Thanks!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M.B.A.
a weekend warrior
from Aurora, CO Date Reviewed: December 2, 1998
Bottom Line:
Just got back from the bike shop where the fist one in Colorado has been sited!! Sorry guys and gals it now has my name on it. Fast, nimble and at an incredible price. The longer top tube gives the cockpit a more comfy feel for those with longer torso's that like to climb the steep stuff. On high speed singletrack its as fast as a motocrosser,and corners like a crotchrocket. Need I say more, well maybe later after I've had it for a few months. One complaint, DBR needs to make more for the public so that it can be FSbike of the year!!!!
Overall Rating:
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