Submitted by
jskopil
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: August 26, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$810.00
Purchased At:
Bike Gallery
Strengths:
Rim and frame strength, comfort, asthetics, design, frame flex
Weaknesses:
No matter how it is tuned, front derailer rubs in all three front gears when chain is at either extreme on the back cartridge.
Similar Products Used:
'96 Scott Yectora. Test rode: Gary Fisher Marlin, Trek 6000, Cannondale F5 and 29'er, Specialized Rock Hopper 29'er
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Shimano SPD M324 clipless pedals
Bottom Line:
Great bike. I really enjoy riding it. I am a 6 ft. 275 lb. rider. I have jumped it, down hilled it, road it down train track ties, and the bike has never faultered under my weight. I am more comfortable on it than any other bike I have owned or test rode. Very happy with it so far. This is my first 29'er, and I could not be more pleased.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bikelover
a Cross Country Rider
from Euless, TX, USA Date Reviewed: May 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Any with smooth climbs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$865.00
Purchased At:
Bicycles Inc.
Strengths:
Frame, Tires, Shock/Fork, Front Deraileur, Wheels
Weaknesses:
Lower end components, weight
Similar Products Used:
Full Suspension Mongoose, GT hardtail, Gary Fisher 26" hardtail
Bike Setup:
Everything Stock + Kevlar tire liners.
Bottom Line:
Only been on the bike 1 month, but have enough experience on other rides to give a preliminary evaluation.
Weigh the price point with the package and you get a stellar bike. Sure the Dart 3 fork, SRAM 4 components and Bontragers Ranger Rims leave a little to be desired, but look at what you get for the price. Everything on the bike is tough, each part is just a little heavier than an upgraded version would be. Put all things together and you have a few extra pounds on your hands.
The frame of this bike is is top notch. Yes, it is the same excact aluminum used on ALL Gary Fisher 29er models(excluding the 1 top end carbon model). Components are the only thing necessary from taking from trail ready to race ready.
Let me sum it up... This bike is tough, real tough. For training it is phenominal and not bad at all for racing. Its stable yet nimble, fast yet solid. A heavier bike is good for training and the wear and tear of everyday use anyways. If you want, have an upgraded set of tubless tires and rims on race day and you will be and feel lighter. A better set on race day makes them special...magic. I will post again after I have put a considerable amount more time on the bike. Look for the next one below.
*The 3 Chilis on overall rating is because this bike is what it is, but takes the cake on value.*
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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