Submitted by
Tim 51 year old
a Cross Country Rider
from Marion Ia US Date Reviewed: November 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
columbine climb
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
mountain sports outl
Strengths:
smooth on the flats and makes me much better on the techy downhill stuff,big enough for a guy over 6'3"
Weaknesses:
heavy , this thing is a tank, I'm 6'3" 180 and it fits great,
(21" frame) but I feel there's better options out there, they get to much for the name.
Bike Setup:
stock,hutchinson pythons
Bottom Line:
I rode this thing at Leadville and got under 12 hours, but feel I could climb so much faster on my old 26er, yea I felt much more confident on the downs, but I'm a roadie riding in a foreign environment, but that being said my strength is climbing and I just felt like I was riding an albatross. If your a climber ,spend a little extra cash and get something that really goes on the ups , I'm still not convinced that 29ers are the answer, look at what all the horses ride at leadville, mostly 26 inch hardtails. Do your homework and get more bang for your buck, I wish I would have got the Motobecane TI on bikes direct, much lighter for only a couple of hundred bucks more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Xcal
a Downhiller
from Riverside, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
anything with dirt and jumps
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Riverside Cycle
Strengths:
crazy fun bike to ride
Weaknesses:
some say the seat is the worst part. just work through the pain..it gets better. it at least better than the old school UNI seats!!....have had a slight problem with the derailers but who cares, shop adjusted and all good.
Similar Products Used:
former BMXer....
Bike Setup:
stock for california
Bottom Line:
this is my first big boy bike since a teen and a 20something racing BMX. Im 39 now, all i can say is all the former BMXers...buy this bike. obviously the set up and dimensions are different, but just as fun. You can get crazy going down hills and very strange how fast it goes up hills. the fox forks are great. you can turn them off for the street and adjust the tension for the dirt. Bottom line.....kick azz bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wheelzmalone
a Cross Country Rider
from sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: September 25, 2009
Favorite Trail:
How could I decide!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Strengths:
Fast!! Amazingly nimble handling coupled with big wheelz to roll over those dips and twists that used to send stupid riders over the bars if not handled perfectly! Amazing looks and just great fun to ride..
Climbs like crazy too!!
Weaknesses:
Would have preferred Shimano shifters..
Similar Products Used:
KHS Alite 2000, Gary Fisher Aquila,
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Huge amounts of fun. Monster wheels and perfect handling. What more could you ask of a bike??
On a practical note. I'm 6'1 and about 80 kilos and the 29er is a much better size for me. I'm on a 19" frame and the fit couldn't be much better. I Can't comment for smaller riders...
The bottom line..?
29ers are awesome and the 09 xcal is one of the best of them all. Don't think about it. Do it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David K in Indy
a Weekend Warrior
from Indianapolis, Indiana, United States Date Reviewed: September 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Town Run Trail Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Station - Co
Strengths:
My first 29er and I can not see ever going back to a 26 inch wheeled mountain bike. Could not find an XL Paragon so I got the X-Caliber - Same frame (build and geometry) and fork. Corners and simply rides faster than all of my previous 26 inched wheeled bikes.
Weaknesses:
Perhaps some of the parts are not as good as the Paragon's. Fingers crossed relative to the frame.
Similar Products Used:
26 inched wheeled XL Gary Fisher Ziggurat and Tassajara with a Fox 100 RL as well as a 20 inch Access frame with a RS Duke.
Bike Setup:
Stock except - Ergon grips, converted to tubeless.
Bottom Line:
Wow. I am now a true believer/convert. Its as if all my skills suddenly vastly improved. It rolls faster on the straights and for the first time ever I can actually lean into corners at speed and keep my momentum. I have experienced no drawbacks at slow speeds or in tight situations when compared to my old mtbs. I think that if you ride a Large or XL mtb you ought to at lest try a 29er.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Andrews
a Cross Country Rider
from Eastbourne, East Sussex, Great Brittain Date Reviewed: September 14, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Coed y Brenin, South downs way, Friston Forrest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Pearsons Cycles (of
Strengths:
FAST, light, sublime forks (fox f29 rl 80mm) feels more like 100mm travel, great components for the price, climbs like nothing else I've ridden, looks great, gears have been flawless, feels very stiff to me considering the size and weight of frame.
Weaknesses:
Stock saddle (bontrager race) was nasty, some people swear by them, just not me. I swapped that out before it left the store, and I'm still undecided on the bars. I find the turning circle is on the wide side, but it is a huge bike (I went for the 21.5" frame, I'm a big dude) so not too bad considering.
Also have had some trouble with the brakes, front one bled out, but I put together a home made bleed kit, and all is good again. If I were to replace the brakes, I'd probably go for some elixirs with a larger disk on the front.
All in all though, These are small niggles. The seat and bars are a matter of preference.
Similar Products Used:
Kona kahuna
Bike Setup:
mostly stock
Specialized BG Indie saddle, heavier, but sooo much kinder to my spuds.
Welgo Magnesium Platforms (damn feet are too big for clipless shoes :( )
Bottom Line:
I Love riding this bike, I took spent a long time trying out bikes to fit me. I'm 6'8, and the 21.5" frame feels roomy to me. Since I've had this bike, I've found myself geting out and riding twice as often. I feel like a better rider, pushing myself harder, faster and taking on hills I wouldn't have bothered with before.
I would recomend this bike to my freinds, especialy tall ones.
I'm not sure the 29 inch thing is for smaller riders.
Also dont be put off by the hard tail, this is so much faster than any full sus I've ridden.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bikerbbbbb
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: September 10, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Freewheel Bike
Weaknesses:
Frame Cracked after 250 miles, just above the seat post weld
Similar Products Used:
This is my third x-cal.
Bottom Line:
Disappointed the frame cracked. However, Freewheel and Trek got me a new frame in 36 hours. Let's hope this frame does not crack.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
keltnera
a Cross Country Rider
from Tallahassee, Florida Date Reviewed: August 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Red Bug
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1450.00
Purchased At:
Liberty Bikes in Ash
Strengths:
29er, G2 fits great, Fox Shocks are awesome, great brakes, head turning bike
Weaknesses:
Grips and Front Derailleur
Similar Products Used:
First 29er
Bike Setup:
Added Shimano PD A530 Pedals, Changed Grips to ODI Rogue Lock-Ons, About to go with a Blackspire 1X9 Setup and Tubeless
Bottom Line:
For $1450, excellent value. Life-time warranty frame, Fox Shocks, Nice Wheels, Hydraulic Brakes, Reasonable components, etc. Can't build that for $1450.
The ride is awesome. Uncanny excelleration up hills. Fox Shocks really smooths out the trails and the wheels run right over everything. Even in the rain, I can stop on a dime with the Avic Juicy hydraulic brakes, love my clipless pedeals.
All this means I love going to a ride!
My wife is hating it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jigmechopa
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder CO Date Reviewed: July 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Walker Ranch
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
University Bicycles
Strengths:
Lightweight after upgrades, SCARY FAST, stiff, responsive
Weaknesses:
Had to upgrade to get a desirable weight, the stock seat and handlebar really suck
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper M2, moots, niner
Bike Setup:
Thomson stem and seatpost, Easton monkeylite SL low rise carbon handlebar, Stans Arch rims laced to Hope Pro 2 hubs set up tubeless, SRam X-O gripshifters and a WTB Rocket Race seat
Bottom Line:
This bike is the most fun that you can have with a hard tail. With a tubeless set-up, the bike feels like it has about 2 inches of rear suspension. Climbs like a goat on steroids and descends like a dream. The G2 geometry is perfect and I'm about 5'10" and 155 lbs. A new wheelset will greatly improve your acceleration and climbing abilities if you're looking to race, which I do. I'll never go back to a 26" wheel after this bike (even full suspension! well.... maybe a fisher 29er hifi pro!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tcsbgdady
a Weekend Warrior
from Pittsburgh, PA, USA Date Reviewed: July 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Bavington
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Trek
Strengths:
Great overall quality. Great suspension. Good components. Great balance. Great overall feel.
Weaknesses:
Needs better brakes...maybe Juicy 7's. Could use a nicer seat.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4900...on second thought....nothing like it!
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I was going to rebuild and replace components. The price points were close. I decided to ride the 29 and loved it! It feels great, is balanced well, and my bike loves it! I am 6' 1" and 230 lbs so to say those things means a lot. I will enjoy miles and miles of fun on this thing. And I can always upgrade the brakes this winter!!! I needed something to do anyways besides ski.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cardamonfrost
a Weekend Warrior
from Barrie, Ontario Date Reviewed: April 14, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Spoke O Motion
Strengths:
Great components for the money. I was skeptical, but really like the 29er. For a bike as big as a 29er, its light at 28.5lbs. The Ceramic White paint is beautiful! This bike is very fast, it rolls forever and still handles great ( I assume thats thanks to the "G2" geometry). The Fox shock is seemingly infinitely adjustable.
Weaknesses:
The seat is a torture device. I am sure it was jointly developed with Sadam. The thin vinyl strips that are used to stop chainsuck damage are too thin. I am not happy with the valve stem on the Rhythm 29 wheels - it is loose and floppy, there is no recess for the nut to tighten into and the shape of the rim (like a 'v') doesnt allow the nut to tighten on the surface. I am a little worried it may get torn out.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Kula 29, 97 schwinn homegrown
Bike Setup:
2008 X cal, 19 inch, I am 6-2 and 165lbs. For whichever reason, my 2008 frame came with the 2009 SRAM X9 f/d (instead of Deore), and a crane creek headset (instead of noname, same on used on the superfly). Crankface egg beaters.
Bottom Line:
I like it. A lot. So, Im not a racer or anything, although if I can get myself into good enough shape I may consider it. The retail on this bike (1750) was more than I had to spend, but when I found a NIB last years model it made perfect sense. It is fast, stable and looks great. I bought a chainstay protector, because after one reasonably gentle ride there was already one mark on it... the sticker that they provide is not thick enough to prevent damage if there was a real derailment etc. I think the value on the Fox fork is outstanding. I am not looking forward to buying a lighter wheelset, as the 29s are still quite expensive. All that being said, i love the 29er and I like the setup on the GF X-cal. The SRAM X9 setup is a little noisy, but the shifting is ok. I look forward to upgrading the brakes (although I like the idea of environmentally friendly mineral oil in the Shimanos) to Juicys. The seat has to be changed, im sure if you race, the light seat is great, but I need something that resembles comfort..beleive me when I tell you that the Bontrager Race seat is brutal. Anything else... nope, I still think that I would have had to spend at least 500 more (if I bought it retail) or 1000 more on what I spent to get a better bike. Highly reccommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
klrmtn
a Weekend Warrior
from Byron, IL Date Reviewed: February 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Rock Cut
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Rockford Bicycle Co
Strengths:
Lite weight, 29" wheels, great traction and good hard tail ride. Will go over trail obstacles much easier than before. Confidence inspiring.
Weaknesses:
stock brakes, seat, grips
Similar Products Used:
Diamond Back Topenga SE (aluminum)
Bike Setup:
Cane Creek Thudbuster, Ergon gp1 grips
Bottom Line:
2008 model. My first "real" bike. 29" wheels offer great traction and a good ride without the expense of full suspension. (Not a full suspension ride, but much cheaper and better power transfer). Good component mix with the exception of the stock Shimano brakes (2009 upgraded to Juicy's). I expected more from the brakes, I will upgrade them when the pads wear out. My first ride was a learning experience, after that, I won't ever go back to a 26". My son will have a 26" on his way to a 29". It goes over rocks, roots steps much better than I thought it could. The new bike gave me the confidence to ride over log rollers on the trail. The larger wheel gets better traction going up and over these obstacles. I know I am still the weak link, but the bike has made riding a better experience for me. I have had no frame cracks, I am 5'11", 180#, frame seems stiff and responsive to me. Fox fork responds well to set up and offers a good ride. The seat rails creak in the Thudbuster, still trying to quiet that down. I would highly recommend this bike to any weekend warrior.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
too_tall
a Cross Country Rider
from Montana Date Reviewed: February 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Rims
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Strengths:
The Xcal seems on the light side for the 21" frame I got. Once up to speed, the bike just keeps rolling along. Feels plush for a hardtail.
Weaknesses:
I'm 6'7", 210lbs. The frame seems to have serious issues with flexing. Handling is slow and imprecise. Not a great climber. Chain suck/broken chain has been a major issue. Bonty wheels are constantly breaking spokes and won't stay true. Frame is now cracked at the seat tube/top tube weld.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
New Race Face drive train, Mavic 719 rims with 14ga spokes and Maxxis tubeless Crossmark (new wheels helped). Otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
I've come to not like this bike very much. The handling is poor and flexing in the frame is super noticeable to me and really bugs me. That may be due in some part to my size too but if you build a frame to fit larger riders the frame should be able to handle larger riders! The chain suck issues seem to be uncurable. Upgrading the wheels helped but didn't cure the basic issues. The cracked seat tube means a new Genesis 2 frame is coming but it's going on Ebay as soon as it comes in. It'll help pay for the new El Rey!
Since the Gen 1 bikes are no longer made, I'd have to recommend staying away from these bikes. Not much value in a bike with a frame that cracks. Also makes it not much in the overall rating too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andrewthrift
a Cross Country Rider
from Kennett Square, PA, USA Date Reviewed: November 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Middle Run's Happiness @ White Clay
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
Bike Line, Newark DE
Strengths:
Good quality with the stock components... while friends have needed to upgrade things like tires, seats, or brakes, the stock components on my x-cal have served me well. I really do give my bike a good spanking too.
Weaknesses:
Can't think of any to be honest. I've got at around 1000 miles on this bike and I've only had one major tune up ($150 worth of minor replacements). If I had to pick something I'd say weight. I spend an hour weighing bikes at Bike Line and the stock x-cal (19") weighs 29lbs, the paragon weighs 27lbs, the cobia 31lbs. I'll probably grab a orbea next, their bikes seem to way 2 lbs less for the same price. You can grab a 29er orbea weighing in around 25lbs for under $2000
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is phenomenal... I've already recommended it to friends, they've bought it, and they are happy with it too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sully
a Racer
from acworth, GA Date Reviewed: October 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
anything off road
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Free Flight
Strengths:
great fork, components, geometry, brakes are ok (would recommend upgrade to juicy's)
Weaknesses:
seat tube clamp, and just had to send back the bike because top tube cracked by the seat tube. Hopefully the replacement will be much better and corrected.
Similar Products Used:
rig, paragon, niner rip
Bike Setup:
stock with a few upgrades
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price but when you hear a creeking noise check the top tube and seat tube. I thought it was noise from the crank but turns out to be a crack....
I ride at 6'1" 210 lbs. and should not happen.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kpk3n3
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbia, Mo Date Reviewed: October 8, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Sunset Cyclery
Strengths:
Fast......Fast.......Fast......Climbs like a champ......flies over everything......pretty light also great suspension setup
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4500
Bike Setup:
stock (07)
Bottom Line:
fast was looking at a trek fuel ex 6 and wanted to spend no more than 1500 on a bike
u really need to test drive a 29er as compared to a f/s bike the 29er makes everything so much faster when i first rode the bike i felt like i was a little kid at christmas the tires are phat and it rolls its like a caddilac i thought i got a lot out of my 4500 but im glad i switched to the 29er community and i never plan on switching back to 26 b/c thats like riding a little toy compared to this bad boy
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rookie Racer
a Weekend Warrior
from Dallas, Texas Date Reviewed: September 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Erwin Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
B&B Bicycles
Strengths:
Big wheels roll and ride great.
Weaknesses:
Tubeless setup - Hard time finding Bontrager strips and valves. Finally went with Stan's strips and no issues so far...
Similar Products Used:
Kona Hoss 26" hardtail, Mavic 819's Thomson stem and seatpost, full SRAM X-9 drive line, Race Face Atlas Cranks, Kenda SS8's
Bike Setup:
17.5 Medium - Upgraded to external BB Raceface cranks, Thomson stem and seatpost, Maxxis Crossmarks w/stan's tubeless system, X-9 shifters and Rear D
Bottom Line:
First new complete bike and I feel is was a great deal for what you get. FOX fork was major selling point and the SRAM items worked smooth. Never ran the stock tires as they didn't have much to them. 3 months and close to 300 miles and being that I'm a clydesdale, the bike is in great shape. Used a spoke wrench a few times to check the wheels and only one spoke required more than a 1/4 turn. Added some air to the fork to help out the ride. The 12 degree sweep flat handlebars feel good and I've never used flat bars before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pynis McDermott
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: September 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Dry Lake Hills, Flagstaff
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Slippery Pig
Strengths:
Big advantage in the 29" tires, great geometric design, good component package for mid range price. Great transition bike to the 29er world.
Weaknesses:
Chain location/Chain suck - I broke the chain on first ride, and have had some issues since. Chain is located very close to the frame, and it appears as if even the slightest deformation of a ring will cause faulty shifting, and chain suck. This has caused the bare metal to be exposed on the frame, which really pisses me off. The tubless ready system is not a perfect system. The stems are a major leak point. But in AZ, you are crazy if you think you can go with tubes.
Similar Products Used:
First big bike purchase. Previous bike was an early to mid 90's rockhopper.
Bike Setup:
SRAM X7 rear D, SRAM X9 front D, Bontrager Wheels/Tubeless Tires, Upgraded to Race XLite Stem/Bars
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I initially wanted to buy a Hi-Fi F/S, but with the components and the fact that I had always ridden a hardtail, I was sold on the X-Cal. The initial reaction was like I had purchased a skill upgrade. I have put some serious miles on this bike in the past 8 months, and have recently started racing. I am attempting to drop weight in the bars. Before I spend the money on the lighter wheels, I might sell & buy a used Superfly.
This bike has all the advantages and disadvantages of a hardtail. I am faster than F/S on the flats and the climb, but HT's are limited in their downhill ability and when I push it I have to use more brakes or crash, which gives up my lead to similarly skilled riders. The chain problems and the fact that my bike now has exposed bare metal on the frame from the chain suck really disappointed me. The chain is located very close to the frame rails, and this could be re-engineered.
Because I am now racing a bit more, I am looking into 26" competition F/S (maybe the 09' Fisher Roscoe). I think that if one is looking at a hardtail, the 29er is an advantage, and the X-Cal is an awesome package. If you are looking at Full-Suspension, the 26" tires are just a bit faster.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vitamin G
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: September 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
HPT
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
www.smithsbikes.com
Strengths:
(2006 X-Cal) Big wheels roll over everything, fast, carves corners well, easy log crossings, stable, BB7 brakes easily adjustable.
Weaknesses:
(2006 X-cal) tight switchbacks are tough, front wheel will flop over, uphill switchbacks hard to keep weight on the front wheel in order to make the turn. Bonty Superstock wheels are heavy, hard to get up to speed. Grips are bad. No need for riser bar on a 29'er, bars are high enough already.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock, except replaced riser bar with flat bar.
Bottom Line:
The 29er series from Fisher should be your starting point when looking at a 29er hardtail. The improvements to geometry with the G2 series is supposed to address the slow speed handling. I bought the old geo because the price was right... but the new would be better.
the big wheels give you an extra amount of confidence and wiggle room when riding over roots, logs, rocks, sand, etc. It's worth the extra weight to be able to bomb through the rough stuff. On downhills and carving corners the big wheels seem much faster because they roll better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BoomingSooner
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmond, OK, USA Date Reviewed: August 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Bluff
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Al's
Strengths:
Great mix of components for the money. I was planning on spending $1000 for a new bike. After looking at the Cobia and Specialized Rockhopper Comp and Cannondale F4, I went with the X-Cal. For $350 more than I was planning on spending, I got a fox fork, SRAM X-7 rear D, SRAM x-9 front D, Sweet Hydro brakes, upgrades across the whole bike that would have cost $900 bucks individually?
I fly on this bike and stop on a dime. Love the color.
Weaknesses:
Seat collar can't be tight enough. and needs replacing
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper comp, Cannondale F4
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Shimano pedals
Bottom Line:
Great Great bike for the money. After feeling a bit bad not buying from a buddy of mine at the Specialized store, he finally said, "I don't blame you a bit".
There is no Specialized mid range bike. It is either a grand or a jump to 1800. X-Cal fit that mid range bill.
Too bad for anyone reading this that the price jumped to 1750 for 09 but there is a reason for the jump!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sctrix1
a Weekend Warrior
from albany Date Reviewed: August 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
SMBA, 909, Kingdom
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Down tube
Strengths:
This bike is light. The components seem to be very durable for a wet Northeast season and hold up well in all conditions. The bike really handles better than all of my previous 26ers.
Weaknesses:
The seat clamp sucks!!
Similar Products Used:
All 26er fullsuspension from Cannondale
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I would not steer you wrong on this bike. I weigh 200lbs and this bike takes all of the technical trails that I throw at it. It is just as good as any full suspension I have rode on the same trails. As a matter of fact, it is better. You will not be disappointed with this bike and it looks great!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
agabrielj
a Racer
from Louisville, KY Date Reviewed: July 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Waverly
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Sport
Strengths:
I can't think of anything that is a weakness. Overall it's the perfect bike for the money. The Geometry is excellent.
Weaknesses:
Not as light as the Superfly, but hey.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper, Giant NRS
Bike Setup:
Stock, except Thomson seatpost-stem. Truvativ Stylo 3.3 crankset, and Chris King headset.
Bottom Line:
This bike (medium) is long and fast. The overall wheelbase is longer than most of the other companies' "large" sized frames. The head angle is a little over 69 degrees compared to the usual 71.5 - 73 degrees other companies use. It tracks like no other and the handling in tight, technical areas is fine indeed.
Great bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
knoxvegas
a Weekend Warrior
from Knoxville, TN, USA Date Reviewed: June 24, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Haw Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1399.00
Purchased At:
Cedar Bluff Cycles
Strengths:
I would like to start off by saying I'm a pretty new rider. The bike fits great (5'10' 175lbs). I was hesitant at first in buying a 29er due to my size, but the G2 geomotry is great. I think for the price and what you get for the componets it's a great buy. Being my first true mt. bike purchase, I didn't want to over spend. I feel with the X-cal I definatley got my money's worth.
Weaknesses:
The fox fork went dead on me within the first 20 miles of riding this bike. Fox is curently taking care of this. Getting used to the Scram shifters.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4500
Bike Setup:
As is but it did come with a Scram x.9 front deralier and I put on some crank bro. peddles
Bottom Line:
This is a fun bike to ride. And that's what it's all about, having fun on what you ride. Full supension, hardtail, 29er, whatever just ride and enjoy it. Like I said above I think this bike is a great buy for what you get and I didn't find that with anyother bikes that I looked at(salsa, specialzed). Great bikes but too much cash for my wallet. I would suggest this bike to anyone who might be thinking about getting on a 29er but isn't sure. This bike handles much like a 26 bike (I rode a 26 hardtail for about a year before this purchase). Enjoy
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kpmull
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise Date Reviewed: April 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Shane's Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$995.00
Purchased At:
George's Cycles (Downtown Boise)
Strengths:
Big. I prefer a big bike and this bike feels big. "Hope you got a lot of room in your trunk for my bike." This thing floats over sand. I breezed past several more fit and capable riders during a race because they got bogged down in soft sand. My bigger tires floated on top. Check out the race video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2jqhZu3avY
Another Strength: All the guys I ride with are jealous of my big tires. Size matters.
Weaknesses:
It takes uphills well altho on steep sections I have to lean over the front tire to keep it from lifting off during the powerful pedal strokes. Not sure if this is due to more traction in back or different geometry of frame. Tight turns are more difficult on this large bike. I have not had the problems with the front brakes that other bigger guys have written about. BTW you can NOT switch to 8 in. Rotors (for more stopping power) on the stock Rockshok Reba Forks. It voids the warranty on the RockShok forks. You have to upgrade to Fox 29er forks which cost more than than this whole bike. While changing a flat, I noticed the tires have a lot of "play" in them. They have to be seated in the rim EXACTLY right then inflated properly or you risk them coming of the rim. It happened to me. Lesson learned. No injuries to me or the bike.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing Similar. I was riding a 20 year old Trek Singletrack 930 before I made this HUGE leap in technology.
Bike Setup:
I got rid of the clip-less pedals that came with the bike. I put on Kore platforms. I may raise the stem on the handlebars a little in the future. I'm 6'1" 220lbs. I was riding a 21" frame but with the larger tires I was able to drop down to a 19" frame but the bike still feels big and comfortable for a bigger rider.
Bottom Line:
If you are over 6 ft. 200lbs. you NEED to be on a 29er! Riding this bike makes riding more FUN so I WANT to ride more, isn't that what it is all about?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: April 23, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Croydon Cycleworks
Strengths:
As a preface to this interview I'll just say that I've only ridden a few other 29ers and I can only compare to these and 26" bikes that I've ridden before.
Firstly, this bike is great value. Originally I planned to by it just for the parts and swap out the frame for a dual suspension design, but I like it so much as is that I've stuck with it. The frame is the same as the Paragon and the Cobia, just the parts and colour schemes change between them.
The Fox fork is excellent, and can be modified to 100mm travel by removing an internal spacer.
Shifting and breaking is as you would expect. The tires are an excellent all rounder and do well on most surfaces except loose gravel. The wheels seem reasonably light for the size.
Weaknesses:
Chain suck. Has occurred a couple of times and due to limited clearance usually results in the chain becoming jammed against the frame. This happened so severely during a race (2km's from the finish!!) that I had to take apart the chain to free it. I may have to add a chain saver if this keeps happening with the new chain.
The rear bearings cones have become loose occasionally, and there is some creaking- seeming to come from the seat post.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Paragon, Kona Kula 2-9
Bike Setup:
Stock '08 plus barends and new KMC chain. Time ATAC XE pedals.
Bottom Line:
Seems to be the best value of the three similar Fisher bikes (against the Paragon and Cobia).
Doesn't feel like a 'big' bike, handling is great and for some reason the big wheels make it feel like you could trackstand for days.
A very solid, fast, fun bike to ride- with only a couple of niggles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roger Amey
a Weekend Warrior
from Canberra, ACT, Australia Date Reviewed: April 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
rogeramey@grapevine.com.au
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Bike Culture
Strengths:
Love the bike now that I'm used to it, able to do things I wasn't game to try before
Weaknesses:
Initially the big problem was chain suck which Bike culture has tried to address with a new chain and is now better but not entirely fixed. But now the prblem is the crack that has appeared where the top tube meets the seat tube. I understand another two bikes in our area have had the same problem.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Standard
Bottom Line:
Great bike but trek who sell the bike in Australia do not have any warranty frames and have to send to the US to get more. I will be without a bike for I don't know how long. If Garry Fisher/Trek are going to sell bikes they need to be able to address problems so that their clients can stay on a bike. I'm not happy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan McGuire
a Cross Country Rider
from Huntington Beach, Ca Date Reviewed: March 19, 2008
Favorite Trail:
rattlesnake
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$132900.00
Purchased At:
jax's
Strengths:
This bike is a great climber compared to the trek 6000 that i had earlier in the year. I love the 29' tires that role right over everything. the Fox f29 air shock that it came with makes it a breeze to adjust on the trial for changing conditions.
Weaknesses:
i have only had a little problem with the brakes not breaking in correctly and the chain slipping once or twice
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock other than i switched to the crank brothers 50/50 pedals
Bottom Line:
this was a great buy and all my friends who i have let ride it love it. They are wanting to get one as well. I love this bike wont be trading it in for a while.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a Weekend Warrior
from acworth, GA Date Reviewed: March 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
blanket's
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Free Flight Bikes
Strengths:
The Fox shock is far better than the Reba as far as travel, weight, and ease of use. The X9 rear derallier and X7 front area a great combination for any trail surface. Hyd/ brakes have great stopping power for a +215 rider. Frame is light and color is sweet. Wheels and tires are a perfect combo for climbing and going over logs, rocks, etc.
Weaknesses:
No stock pedals but not a big issue.
Similar Products Used:
GF Paragon, Niner, 69er, Specialized Rockhopper or stumpjumper 29er.
Bike Setup:
Great for the price..... Sram X7 front and triggers, X9 rear, Deore Hyd. brakes, Rythem rims w/ Jones tires, FOX 33 shock, Oh yeah Bontrager seatpost, seat, stem,etc. etc.
Bottom Line:
Bike rides smooth and handles anything I have given it. Took a while to get use to the bigger wheels (29er) but after a few rides no comp. vs. a 26er. For the price you get many upgraded components over similar bike models. If you are looking for a bike just under $1500 you cannot go wrong with the X-Caliber.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: March 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Yarra - You Yangs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Very nicely put together bike. Great colour. Great Fox fork. Good specs for the price. Good quality Bonty parts.
Weaknesses:
I have had a few flats already. A couple from paunctures through the Bonty Jones tyres and a couple because the rim tape was poorly applied (easily fixed).
Similar Products Used:
Kona 2-9, Haro Mary XC
Bike Setup:
Stock but upgraded cranks to LX ones I had lying around
Bottom Line:
OK, so this review is for the 2008 model with the Fox F29 (G2) fork and Deore hydro brakes. I love this bike. I have been very tempted to buy a full sus 26er for a while as that is what most of my riding buddies ride but decided on the 29er so i could pull a trailer and do some camping trips with the kids. I am really glad I did. I love the way this bike feels. The steering is much more resposive than my cross bike or rigid ss 26er (bordering om twitchy). It did take a while to master the steering on the bike too as I seemed to oversteer corners on my first few rides but I have it sorted now and love the way it feels. Low and high speed stability is great. And the bike just fits well.
It is a bit harder to get the 29er wheels rolling (compared to my cross bike anyway) but once they are going nothing seems to stop them.
I recommend this bike if your riding needs are varied but you still want a competant trail bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paul
a Cross Country Rider
from reading, pa. Date Reviewed: October 31, 2007
Favorite Trail:
blue marsh
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
spokes hamburg, pa.
Strengths:
great climber, alot of speed on any descent. goes thru water, mud, logs with ease. like having a 4x4 mt. bike. you'll never want to go back to a 26" bike. took out my full suss trek when my 29 was in 4 a 6 month tuneup, it was like a tricycle. i love the cockpit of a 29er
Weaknesses:
would go with hydraulic brakes instead of the bb7 mechanical brakes that come stock.
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
i love this bike. great ride. simply sweet. get a29er.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray W
a Racer
from Puyallup Date Reviewed: August 28, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Skookum Flats
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Rainier Cycles
Strengths:
Quality of construciton. Reliable components, Well spec'd for the price. Genisis Geometry
Weaknesses:
???
Similar Products Used:
this is my first 29'er
Bike Setup:
Stock, no reason to change anything
Bottom Line:
It was a big decision to try a 29'er for me. Glad I did. I have not experienced any of the negatives you may read about, (slow accerleration, slow cornering, whatever). This bike climbs. Actually it outclimbs. The longer contact patch from the bigger tires provides noticably better traction in corners and climbing. You can even get away with standing up on climbs in lose dirt without spinning out and foot dabbing. You'll also cruise through deep sand and water while maintaining more momentum. You'll notice a lot more momentum going over / through roots, logs, and rock gardens. As far as the components go, I've been very pleased. I already have Sram on my other bikes. I haven't been able to cake enough mud on the cassette to keep it from shifting. It shifts everytime. I really like the fork, had a problem with an inner seal a few laps into a 24hr race but the folks at RockShox took very good care of me. The only thing I would consider changing is 7 or 8 inch rotors. The bigger wheels could use the extra stopping power. The wheelset is actually nicer than I expected. The spoke tension is higher than I've seen from other wheelsets (mavic). I did end up tensioning them up after the first few rides. I think this is critical to avoid the problems folks have had with the tire rubbing the frame. I raced this bike in a 24hr. earlier this year. I was riding 1hr. 12 min laps, blew a seal in the fork and had to switch to my back up bike (with standard 26inch wheels) I ended up riding 1hr. 20min laps on this bike. I ended up doing half my laps on the 29'er the other half on my back up bike. I realize this isn't a scientific test but I think it is indicative of the difference in momentum between the two wheel sizes. The best part of all though, I always smile when I think about riding this bike, and it's all grins out on the trail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Cross Country Rider
from Wakefield, Ma, USA Date Reviewed: August 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Private Sale
Strengths:
This bike climbs and descends very well. Much better than I expected. The Reba fork is also a great performer. I had a 100mm 26" version on a previous bike, but the 29" 80mm feels much smoother.
Weaknesses:
Front derailleur clearance. Chain suck (Bonty crank). Handling at very slow speeds.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first 29er.
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock. I put a WTB Motoraptor 2.1 on the rear and it has eliminated all the tire clearance issues it had.
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great value for an avid mountain biker looking to try bigger wheels. Handling at slower speeds isn't exactly quick or sharp, but get these wheels rolling and its a blast. The faster this bike goes the more fun it is. Climbing is decent as well. The big wheels dig in and hold on. This bike puts a smile on my face every time I'm on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Cullen
a Racer
from Grosse Pointe Date Reviewed: August 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anywhere i can get
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1150.00
Purchased At:
American Cycle and Fitness
Strengths:
29er, in combination with the Genisis technology
Weaknesses:
rear tire clearance
Similar Products Used:
all fisher xc bikes as well a trek xc bikes
Bike Setup:
X-cal 185mm front disc conversion xt front derailer x-9 rear lx cassette
Bottom Line:
This bike and I have been through alot. Im extremly tough on bikes (i'm 6'7").
I stretched my chain the first day I rode the bike. It was SRAM if that means anything. I switched it out for a Shimano, then the next day the rear derailer went, turns out the SRAM cassette in the rear had plastic spacers, and the were toasted after the initial construction of the bike. I went LX because the guys at the bike shop got me it for free. Next thing to go was the front derailer, it had to be bent in order to shift. After that I rode and raced it a little, and managed to over torque my middle chain ring and bend the hell out of it. I got fed up and spent my next pay check on a few up grades. Nothing ever was wrong with the brakes I just wanted the big rotor look and stoping power up front. So with the purchase of the new toys, X-9, XT new rings... my bike turned out pretty well.
The thing is an absolute beast I have been over boulders and logs that would have eaten up and beginner rider like myself on a 26 inch bike. Water is also no object. It crosses 3 ft of water like its riding hard pack.
As for the geometry... The inch longer top tube and shorter chain stays tuck the rear tire well underneath the seat and create a ton of traction. No longer do I slip on every little incline or sand/gravel patch I hit. The 29er specific geometry change is the drop in bottom braket placment. The big wheels allow for the drop and it lowers the center of gravity. It feels more comfortable balance wise then a 26".
The bike is perfect. Everything works now. And you cannot beat big tires, and Genisis geometry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wesley Williams
a Cross Country Rider
from Fayetteville, AR, USA Date Reviewed: July 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Kessler's
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Fayetteville Bicycle Company
Strengths:
The greatest strength of this bike is the fact that it's a 29er. Climbs, descents, and pedaling are made so much easier with a bigger wheelbase. After riding the 29er, it's highly unlikely you'll ever go back to a standard Mt. Bike. When I first starting riding the X-Caliber, I felt like I was on an actual Mt. Bike, something that was made for trails. On my old KHS, I've had several problems with clearing logs, rocks and roots. Stuff I had never been able to clear is now made easy with my new bike. It's very plush and the fact that it's a hardtail doesn't really matter. I've ridden full-suspension bikes, and the X-Caliber feels every bit as plush as anything I've ever ridden for a hardtail.
Weaknesses:
I've only had this bike for a month and am already wanting to switch out the pedals. I'm not too hot on the shifters, either. I've ridden about nine times and am already have problems with the front derailleurs.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Caffeine 29er
Bike Setup:
2003 KHS ALITE 500, 2007 Gary Fisher X-Caliber
Bottom Line:
I would definitely buy this bike again. 29er is the only way to ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Weekend Warrior
from scituate,ma.usa Date Reviewed: June 6, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
cohassett cycle sports
Strengths:
Fast,Cool looking,Good fit for a tall guy,Great value. Its a 29er!
Weaknesses:
not alot of rear-tire clearance. speced tire rubbed sometimes and didnt get enough traction in the conditions i ride. replaced tires and pedals right away. paint has chipped a little too easily.
Similar Products Used:
none...my first mountain bike
Bike Setup:
mostly stock except tires, better Shimano pedals, new Race-Face Deus 180mm crankset(I have long legs).
Bottom Line:
I am new to mountain biking. After monthes of test rides and reviewing, this is the bike I chose as my first. I am 6'2" 195lbs. The 26" bikes I tried felt like kid's bikes to me,perhaps being used to road riding. I decided a 29er was the way to go for me. Mostly looking to trail ride for fitness,and wanting a versitile ride,I decided to go hardtail. The X-cal fit into my budget and the large size I test rode fit me nice. I don't have alot of experience and my riding isnt very technical. But I have been riding hard and fast 4 times per week for the last year...sun,rain, and snow. This bike has yet to fail me once. Slippage issues went away with a tire upgrade and I am planning on a few more upgrades to lighten 'er up a bit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from West Bend, WI Date Reviewed: June 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Ice Age
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
Pedal Moraine
Strengths:
Excellent climber. Stock set up will easily keep you on the trail. Front suspension handles rocks and roots even for a heavier rider.
Weaknesses:
Rear wheel not centered in frame and rubbed paint off frame. Returning to shop for diagnostics, possible new frame needed. A problem with some 29er's is the flex that will cause the wheel to rub, even if it is centered, on hard climbs. One of GF/Trek fixes is to change the tire size from a 2.25 to a 2.1. Grips are slippery when wet. Electrical cable ties holding down cables to fork and frame, very hillbilly.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock except replaced grips with Ergons.
Bottom Line:
I've ridden a FS for eight years and was contemplating a new FS but fell in love with 29er. I love being back on a hard tail and the climbing capabilites of the bike is awesome. This bike has really increased my confidence on trails and hills. The frame problem is definitely a bummer and hope my shop/GF will get it fixed quickly but I love the 29er and so will you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from rhode island Date Reviewed: May 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
lincoln woods
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
goodales bike shop, nashua NH
Strengths:
A good bike for climbing, especially in loose conditions.
Weaknesses:
Of all the mountain bikes I have owned (listed here), this is by far the most unstable. It performed well on the flats and on mild terrain. However, it did not handle well at all on the tight, twisty, rocky, and steep terrain that I ride. Moreover, keeping the rear wheel aligned was a real problem. The rear tire (which came with the bike)would rub against the frame and eat away at it. In terms of design, there is very little space between the rear wheel and the frame. The bike shop I bought it at also recognized that other x-calibers had had difficulty in maintaining the rear wheel aligned.
A good climbing bike for mild trails (in part due to the 29er wheels), but an inadequate one for agressive technical riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a
from Milwaukee, WI, USA Date Reviewed: March 20, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
World Cycle, Boise
Strengths:
29" does have its advantages, especially for us over 6'. The weight is decent for this price point, and the componentry has been suitable as well. I have had a bit of rear derailluer (sp) missing, but that ought to be easily fixed. The X-Cal is the bargain of the bunch when it comes to 29ers. I compared this to the Paragon and really didn't see the advantage of $300 more cost. The shop I bought from was also very helpful. I highly recommend World Cycle out of Boise. VERY knowledgeable and passionate about biking.
Weaknesses:
None Yet.
Bottom Line:
Best bang for the buck I could find. Highly recommended. World Cycle, too!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Temecula, CA USA Date Reviewed: February 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
cychopath bike shop-Temecula, CA
Weaknesses:
*updated* Seems that the front derailleur is "NOT UPGRADABLE". GF/Trek would not take an XT front derailleur from stock for the Paragon and sell it as a replacement for a Deore that i wrecked. I cant blame them for that actually, especially since apparently there are NO MORE LEFT. According to the bike shop i purchased this bike from, not only can you not upgrade the front derailleur on this bike (because shimano/sram no longer manufactures one that fits), the Paragon will now be issued w/ a Deore front derailleur as well,instead of the XT that they advertise. ....WOW, is this bad design/planning on the part of GF/Trek.
Also: The cassette on this bike is junk. It failed and was replaced after one month of heavy use.
Bike Setup:
.......well, guess what kind of front derailleur i'm using (insert heavy rolling of the eyes here).
Bottom Line:
As i said in my previous review, its a great frame. I really like the genesis geometry, but Ive gotta admit, Im pretty disappointed in the fact that im stuck w/ a Deore front derailleur for the life of the bike, or at least until a manufacturer designs/re-issues a better one that will fit this bike.
Ive tried to contact GF about this several time through their online site and got no response. I guess they feel that if they cant offer an optomistic answer, the question isnt worth answering at all.
...Would i buy this bike again? No, i would not.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Temecula, CA USA Date Reviewed: January 19, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
cychopath bike shop
Strengths:
A great feeling 29'er. Im 6'7" tall, and was looking for a big bike that handled like a small one. This fit the bill. It has a great frame, love the geometry. Great fork. Ive had no problems w/ the brakes, or the seatpost, as described in other reviews. Overall, a great mid-range bike w/ lots of potential given improvements in componentry.
Weaknesses:
...my first upgrade was a front derallieur that i wrecked. Turns out upgrading to the xt wasnt possible because the model that fits the small rear wheel space (space between the seat tube and rear tire) is no longer being made. ...even though its the stock item on the paragon. Fortunately for me, the shop i purchased the bike from convinced trek/gf to take one off of the paragon assembly line (which is the only place they exist) and send it to me. ..GFisher says they are in the process of an agreement for a sram upgrade that will fit, but not until next year. ...whatever.
Bottom Line:
Great bike, questionable upgradabilty in spots where 29'ers are known for being difficult.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Collins
a Cross Country Rider
from Athens, GA, usa Date Reviewed: September 6, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
@thehub bikes, athens
Strengths:
Great frame and fit (for me); nice fork; price; mostly good mid-range components; zero snob appeal
Weaknesses:
pedals are awful; wheels are form over substance with no weight savings
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale hardtails
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock, except switched out pedals for Shimano 520's, replaced wheels with "normal" 32 spoke wheels, selle italia flite saddle, old easton carbon seatpost.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. It's the '07 model, which I think is about the same a 06 except for color. After riding hardtails since 1990, I was looking to drop alot more money on my first full suspension bike, but didn't find one that fit me in any of the local shops. For the hell of it, I tried out the 19" X-Caliber and it fit me perfectly, so I bought it. It feels just as nimble as my 26" cannondales - none of the sluggishness that I have heard 29ers have. I had thought that the supposed benefits of 29ers was just hype, but it's true - the bike climbs better and deals with roots and logs much more easily. It's no magic bullet, but it's definitely an improvement over my past hardtails. The only major problem with the bike is the pedals (shim. 505's I think) - these are no good for off-road riding and are throw-backs to the days of the original SPDs with no mud clearance which locked you feet in when there is just a little mud built up on the pedals. The bontrager superstock wheels also did not excite me. These are clearly designed to just look racy. I have never had many problems with wheels, but I didn't want to take my chances with 28 spoke wheels, so I replaced these right away with sturdier 32 spoke XT/Salsa Delgado wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Casey Schlaegle
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh pa USA Date Reviewed: September 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Bavington
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Trek of Pittsburgh
Strengths:
Great frame, Great climbing bike, Solid fork with lockout, great wheelset, overall great bike
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
paragon
Bike Setup:
XTR shifters, X-lite carbon bars, XT rear der, XTR hydraulic brakes, x-lite stem, race lite cranks, m-520 pedals, odi lock on grips
Bottom Line:
great bike, i am not a fan of sram shifters (personal prefrence) go out and buy one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike hatfield
a Cross Country Rider
from Manassas, VA Date Reviewed: August 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
one i can ride
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Lane, Burke, VA
Strengths:
I am an average rider at best but log a lot of miles and on various trails. this bike makes me a better rider and it effortlessly rolls over stuff and climbs like a maniac.
Weaknesses:
rear derailleur? I was riding today and twig got caught up in the rear wheel somehow and before I could stop the derailleur snapped off and the chain was wrapped around my foot.
Similar Products Used:
specialized enduro, trek 7500 (ha!) cannondale rush, santa cruz blur,
Bike Setup:
right off the shelf
Bottom Line:
I have ridden most of the trails around here in NoVA and effortly roll over terrain I was a little scared of to be honest. Just got back from a weeks worth of riding i the poconos which is nothing but freaking rocks everywhere. (I never knew rocks came in so many angles) I have a little trouble in tight turns or switchbacks but i think that is my inexperience as a rider more than the bike. bottom line i would reccomend this bike to all entry and intermediate riders. I did just break my rear derailleur but I walked into the bike Lane and they fixed it on the spot as well as giving it a quick once over for me. GREAT shop!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from New Gloucester, Maine Date Reviewed: August 14, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
CAPE ABLE KENNEBUNKPORT MAINE
Strengths:
first 29er and bike fits and handles extremely well, nice frame weight and finish quality (handmade in USA) Reba fork performs flawlessly at 85mm (adjustable to 115mm)and 150lbs pressure- soaks up stutter and big hits equally well, bb7 brakes, nice tyres (Bonty Jones)
Weaknesses:
rear bonty housebrand hub tough to dial in- it's not centerlock, crankarms are scary close to the chainstays, stock seatpost nothing special. I should mention the plastic headbadge is weinerish and was quickly replaced with my LBS logo sticker- Cape Able!
Similar Products Used:
Klein- similar frame in 26"
Bike Setup:
2007 stock except: Bonty 118 ti bar, race stem, and foam grips, thompson post with race lite ti seat or USE ti xc suspension post with litespeed saddle, replaced rings with FSA 32-22and custom bashguard-(a machined down racelite 42t) srp bolt kit, 540 pedals, sram hollow plate chain, xt cassette.
Bottom Line:
Excellent trailbike or xc racer (with a few small changes), Smart design. Superior handling and performance- really nice frame, mix of some nice and some generic parts- awesome fork- no regrets. This bike is as capable as an aluminum hardtail gets. The service at the Fisher dealer (Cape Able), represents and backs the product very well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Humber Thumper
a Cross Country Rider
from North East Lincolnshire Date Reviewed: July 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
River Humber South Bank
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Berkshire Cycles
Strengths:
The frame and fork are fantastic! Capable of far more than I am, but still make me feel confident and competent. I ride 20 to 30 miles every day in all weathers, I feel part of the bike rather than 'riding on it'. The geometry is very forgiving, the whole 29er thing is all about stabilty and speed - it just eats up stuff that I struggle with on a 'normal' bike.
Weaknesses:
The bike is quite long. I had to adjust the reach with a short stem and raised bars. This is probably more to do with me than the bike.
There are few dealers in the UK making test rides and fitting all but impossible.
These bikes are expensive in the UK. £900.00!
Similar Products Used:
Claude Butler Hybrid, much loved, much modded, much stollen!
Bike Setup:
Shorter elevated Bontrager Race Stem, raised Bontrager Race bars, Specialised BG Sport saddle Big Apple tyres for fast dry weather rides. Specialised BG Grips.
Bottom Line:
This bike will make you look good and annoy the b'jesus out of 26" purists. Buy one for that reason alone.
Frame is great, fork is the dog's.
Componentry is good without being exotic.
'Ave it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Raleigh, NC Date Reviewed: June 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Beaverdam
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1249.00
Purchased At:
Trek Bikes of Raleigh
Strengths:
This bike comes with a great set of components, especially for the price. For a BIG bike, it is prety light and rolls over anything. The increased contact patch of the 29" tires makes for better traction, especailly while climbing. The performance of the Reba front fork is also fantastic. Buying from Trek of Raleigh was great too, good staff.
Weaknesses:
The new geometry and bigger wheels take some getting used to, but worth the time investment. Throw away the stock grips, they are slippery when wet!
Similar Products Used:
No other 29" bikes.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for a 8" front disk.
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike. It is a lot for the money straight from the factory. I am not a stellar rider but the capabilities of this bike have allowed me to greatly improve my riding, and it's a blast to run over everything without slowing down!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from Roseville MN USA Date Reviewed: June 14, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1150.00
Purchased At:
Freewheel
Strengths:
The sram x7 drivetrain and the avid bb7 brakes perform flawlessly. The Reba fork is fantastic. The 29" wheels roll over everything.
Weaknesses:
The gel seat has mushy feeling and the hubs seem to have a bit a resistance, although they are not noticeable on the trail.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first 29" wheeled bike although I have owned and ridden many hardtail and full suspension 26" wheeled bikes.
Bike Setup:
Bike is set as it came from the factory with the exception of a Rockshox suspension seatpost.
Bottom Line:
If you have never ridden a 29" wheeled bike it takes a few turns to get the feel of it (as in any time you change to a new bike). But once you get used to it the bike is fast smooth and an outstandidng performer. The 29" wheels really do make a difference in smoothing out the rough trail and climbing is a snap because of the larger contact patch, slipping on loose climbs is a thing of the past.
If you have not ridden a 29" wheeled bike you are missing out. While it may not be for everyone's riding style sprinters specificlly, for the majority of the riders it will make a huge difference in your speed and control.
I have raced this bike a few times and my lap times have come down while feeling less fatigued at the end of the race.
I am converted.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew G.
a Cross Country Rider
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: April 18, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
Improved Genesis Geometry is fantastic. 29ers are awesome. The increased contact area and wheel diameter make for greater momentum, improved climbing, and the ability to rol over just about anything. 29ers are as advertised. Not to mention, very comfortable compared to my 26" hardtail. A great compromise if you don't want to spend the money and have the hassle of maintaining a full suspension bike, while getting the benefits of a more comfortable ride. Not to mention, you get the climbing efficiency of a hardtail. The Avid Mech. Discs are awesome and low maintenance. The Reba SL is a dream so far.
Weaknesses:
None really other than it's a bit on the heavy side, even after swapping out some parts. The bontrager superstock 29" wheels are most likely the culprit.
Similar Products Used:
1st and only 29er I've ever ridden, so I can't compare to some of the others.
Bottom line this is a great bike. I actually have the '05, which is black metallic, but I got a sweet deal. The stock bike ran me $1000, and I put on parts from my old bike and some new stuff from ebay, put me just over $1300. The performance of this bike was so fantastic, I just have such a blast riding it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Weekend Warrior
from Kansas City Date Reviewed: March 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
China Camp
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1150.00
Purchased At:
Bike America
Strengths:
Fisher frame with good components (Reba fork is amazing), 29 inch wheels and at the right price
Weaknesses:
ISIS BB
Similar Products Used:
Paragon
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike if you're looking for a great value in the 29er market
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alex cronmiller
a Weekend Warrior
from rocherter,ny Date Reviewed: January 31, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
towpath bikes
Strengths:
light,overall sweetness of everything
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
all
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike for anybody who wants more speed,better climbing and overall sweetness
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trent
a Cross Country Rider
from Collinsville Date Reviewed: January 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Turquoise Lake
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
Overal spec, frame is well developed(light)
Weaknesses:
For the price, none except some componennt weakness such as ISIS BB.
Similar Products Used:
Lots of other brands
Bike Setup:
XT, Bontrager, rigid front fork, On-One Mary bars
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is that this is a very solid bike on a very solid platform(the frame). I shopped around a good deal before purchasing this bike, I didn't want to go custom or super-high-end with my first foray into 29 inches and this bike fit the bill. One additional thing I found is that this bike was AVAILABLE while others like Niner were not. Also, after I got the bike I stripped it down to get a frame weight and was pleasantly suprised to find it was 3lbs. 7oz. Very respectable. Bike rides great. Sure ISIS is the worst development in cycling in years, but, sell the stuff on Ebay and replace it with something better. I really wish folks would review the correct products in the correct forums. I appreciate the fellows comments above, but don't rip on a complete bike b/c of one component. Rip the component in it's proper category. THIS IS A GREAT BIKE, especially for the price. Price of complete bike is worth the price of the frame, fork and wheels alone in my opinion.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Mills
a Cross Country Rider
from Tallahassee, FL US Date Reviewed: January 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Munson Hills
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Great Bicycle Shop
Strengths:
I like the adjustability and dependability of the air shock, and the paint job has held up well over a couple years of riding.
Weaknesses:
I had to have a new set of wheels built up almost immediately. Most maddening: I've been through 5 bottom brackets in two years! They always get water in them, regardless of how careful I am. I'm 6'4", 250 lbs, but this bike just has NOT held up well.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bottom Line:
Mediocre product, unless they've improved a lot in the last two years. If you're a heavy rider and have a bottom bracket problem, bite the bullet the FIRST time and upgrade to a stellar quality component. I've spent almost half the cost of the bike in the first two years just replacing bottom brackets, and I've only done it when the LBS says I have little choice if I want to keep riding. I'd say with all the new 29er options coming out, stay away from companies like Fisher that are just cranking the bikes out .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott hargrove
a Cross Country Rider
from alexandria, LA Date Reviewed: January 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Lincoln Parish Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
River City Cycles/ Shrevport, LA
Strengths:
overall speed, effortless climbing compared to my 26", tremendous momentum, overcomes inertia w/ ease, handles corners great, rather light for its size. my bike (19" frame) is under 29 lbs. rides smoother than my 26" full suspension bike.
Weaknesses:
I don't know yet
Similar Products Used:
nothing similar to the X-cal
Bike Setup:
Factory stock w/ exception of a few alterations I made to pimp it out a bit. this bike is not orange(thank God) it is actually red w/ yellow glitter flakes. very pretty! I have added a little more color to it by adding a blue & red selle sa marco saddle, blue grips, blue bar ends, blue quick release seat post clamp, blue water bottle cages & blue valve stem covers. looks awsome! although my other bike seems a little blue w/o its blue.
Bottom Line:
for anyone who wants more speed w/ more control & less effort, then this is the bike for you. i do some offroad duathlons and i offten feel that i use so much excess energy during the mountain bike portion that my last run suffers a lot. i have not raced w/ this bike yet but i am confident that i can pull at least ten minutes off of my time. riding the x-cal is so effortless that i think i'm going to train on my 26" just so i don't decondition. every offroad cyclist should own one but i hope nobody else gets one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Weekend Warrior
from sunny london Date Reviewed: November 16, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
1400
Strengths:
FAST, CHEAP (ISH), LOOKS GOOD AND RIDES WELL. VERY COMFY
Weaknesses:
BIT HEAVY, SOME BITS ARE ON THE CHEAP SIDE
Similar Products Used:
NONE. 26" before that (Giant and Cannondale)
Bike Setup:
As out of the box but sinny road tyres and just about to add a Rohloff
Bottom Line:
I really like it. It's a 2005 which is black. The 2006 is a horrible canary yellow (my last bike was yellow so I'm sick of that colour) so I'm glad it got it when I did. Compared to my old Giant ATX 890 it is not nearly as fast off at the lights but it is much, much more comfortable. It's pretty good a slower speeds in London and when it gets moving it's fast. Not much bad to say, really. I am 6' 6" so I don't think that I will ever go back to little wheels...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian Plummer
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: September 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Sour Dough Trail, Boulder
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Full Cycle, Boulder, CO
Strengths:
Seems light weight for its' size. I love the 29" wheels. I'm able to roll over stuff that I could not before. I also get a bigger "foot print" that does a better job at grabbing the ground when I'm loosing it. The shock is great. I like the fact that it has 6 more speeds than my old bike. I really like the way the bike looks. Unfortunately, I'm making it look old very fast.
Weaknesses:
I have got some of the chain suck stuff people talk about with Fisher. I've never delt with that before now. It really screwed up the side of my frame when I had to yank the chain out a few times between the front chain ring and the frame. I can't get the seat post to stop from sinking. Every time I ride I slowly sink down. Other than that it's great.
Similar Products Used:
The only other bike I have used was a 1999 $600 (when new) KHS Crest.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I love the 29" wheels and the size of the bike. It weighs as much as my old bike but it seems twice as big. I don't like the occassional chain suck problem and I don't like the seat post falling. I'll bet I could fix the seat post if I really torked the screw in the holder. I am happy with my purchase. It's a very fun bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from Kansas Date Reviewed: April 7, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Trek Bicycle Store
Strengths:
frame...brakes....SPEED! It really smoothes out the little bumps...and did i mention that it's fast.
Weaknesses:
little heavy...wheels and hubs are questionable...not used to the shifting.
Similar Products Used:
Giant ATX 770.....from the 90's
Bike Setup:
I plan on getting some carbon pieces to get her to loose some weight.
Bottom Line:
This is the sweetest bike I have ever ridden. 29ers are the real deal, I will never go with a youth size bike again. The avid breaks are pie to set up and adjust. The sram shifting is a little weird(it does shift well though) and I kinda miss my old shimano rapidfire stuff. Go with the X-cal if you want a great bike to step up to the 29er level. The frame looks awesome and has great build quality. Now I just need to pick out some lightweight goodies to make it perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from Gardnerville Date Reviewed: March 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
sandbox
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
LBS, Reno
Strengths:
nicely built. the price is a bargain. the parts alone are worth it. The REBA fork works very well. Brakes aren't as touchy as some have indicated in other posts the large wheels make the hardtail feel like full suspension on rocky downhills. the hardtail climbs better than any suspension bike.
Weaknesses:
not super light compared to 26er.
Similar Products Used:
trek fuel 98 Retrotec custom bike
Bike Setup:
stock, XL Frame - this bike is huge compared to a 26er
Bottom Line:
I'm very pleased. I was ready to ditch my suspension bike for a hardtail and the 29er really fits me (I'm 6'4"). oddly, I am more comfortable pedaling while standing and spend a lot more time out of the seat (by choice) because it feels right. the bike has everything I need right out of the box. I don't feel I need to customize it at all. I figure I'm the most unique guy out there already since everyone else is pimping their rides.
Haven't got a flat yet, sicne it's not thorn season, but hope that it's not too hard to get tubes at the LBS.
I recommend 29ers for anyone over 6ft. comparing 29ers to 26ers is like comparing a 26er to a bmx bike or 24". they roll over stuff way better. I also rode my bike through bottomless sand as a test and it made it. my 26er would've sunk. 5 chilis for value, 4 overall - I think some better wheels would get me to 5 overall. the stock ones came with somewhat loose spokes (all factory built wheels are too loose in my opinion). I tightened them up myself, no sweat. Also the bike creaks a little in the seatpost/cranks and the seatpost QR doesn't hold tight enough. I had to crank it down with a wrench to keep the seat from slipping.
The SRMA shifters work great, but I'm not really into the all thumbs shifting. Shimano index finger trigger is more my style, but they got the patent so SRAM has to be different. I do like the SRAM just for not being shimano, however. It's not good when one company owns the whole scene.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy Lines
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, Mo Date Reviewed: February 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Greensfielder
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$860.00
Purchased At:
Route 66 Bikes (Rolla, Mo)
Strengths:
This bike moves. It just rolles along with very little effort. Takes big rocks and what not very well. Just goes right over it. One word... Stable
Weaknesses:
This is a entry level bike I know but the SRAM cassette is junk. I have upgraded this bike quite a bit and it never really shifted well until I tried a OLD XT cassette. Other then that this bike is very solid for its price.
Bike Setup:
Bike is far from stock now. Race lite disc front wheel with avid 185mm break, Race lite v-brake rear wheel with avid ultimate brake, XT shifters rear and cassette, LX 571 cranks with XT BB.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is that if you want to go 29er and want to pimp out the ride over time this is it. I have changed just about all my bits over but the seat post, stem and bars.... and those will go soon. I am at 28 lbs with a 185 disc on the front. I think I can get to 25 with a little more work.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a
from kirkwood, missouri Date Reviewed: February 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
This bike is a go anywhere do anything setup. I climb technical stuff now that I would have never climbed on the 26 inch.
Weaknesses:
The components pretty much suck on this bike. I will spend the next year or so upgrading the components and will end up with one of the nicest rides on the planet.
Similar Products Used:
???
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike if you want something different than the rest of the crowd. I have owned at least ten mountain bikes and this is my favorite
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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