Probably the best bike I've ever owned, granted I've only owned 3 decent bikes. The price up there is what the guy bought it for, i paid $300 for it. basically an insane deal. For any XC rider this bike will work great for you with a few upgraded components and fork. not loving the rear shock but have no money to replace it at the moment.
Great Handling bike, extremely comfortable and easy to control, especially for beign 6'5". Love fast trails, great climbing bike, lets you stand and crank up the steep ones.
Weaknesses:
From factory, the factory crank blows (ended up changing to an XT), as do the hubs on the race wheels (rebuilt several times, gave up got new wheels and hubs). Weak frame (I cracked it after 2 seasons), warranty was awesome, got a new frame no issues. Like my new Sugar 2+ frame better than the original
Similar Products Used:
2003 Sugar 2+
Bike Setup:
As delivered.
Bottom Line:
Good bike, great geometry, but weak frame, crappy hubs and crank. Go for a new Sugar 2+, I have that frame now (2003) after my original frame cracked. Fisher was great with replacement, no questions asked.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bram
a Weekend Warrior
from Assen, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: January 31, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
See earlier review
Weaknesses:
see earlier review
Bike Setup:
GF Sugar 2 2001 L frame Rond Pro Ahead Set Bontrager Race Cranks BBB Chainrings XT cassette SRAM PC69 chain Rond Magura O24U fork with 80mm Magura Martha Disc Brakes Selle Italia Flite Trans Am IRC Mythos XC (2.1 front, 1.95 rear) Acor Bar ends Time ATAC pedals Shiman BB-UN 52 (still going strong!)
Bottom Line:
So I made a decision; stick to the Sugar frame and spec it with new components. In spite of the disc brakes it is even lighter now. The brakes are adding more stopping power. The saddle I chose because the WTB was to wide for longer rides (inner legs started irritating) The O24U is an amazing fork. I can't believe it's no more famous at your side of the ocean! Over here in Europe Magura is getting more and more famous for there forks. Great stiffness and very low friction, so it eats small and big bumps.
The Sugar performs great. I was planning to get me a new one (Team Issue) I was scared off because of all the mis alignment issues. Sure I experience chain suck every now and then but this is mainly because of the extreme mud conditions I sometimes bike in. The frame was looking still very good. I decided to change the bushings and add disc brakes (bushings and adapter $ 100!)I'll wait and see how the new Sugar Race is doing. The increased frame stiffness and added travel (3.5"instead of 2.5")are plusses! If it proofs itselve I'll consider buying it. However the travel of the 2001 Sugar is enough for Dutch conditions.
I considered many times buying a new bike. However after comparing the specs and adding the increadible Genesis Geometry I still think that the Sugar is the best FS. i expect the new Sugar Race to be the non plus ultra in X country FS bikes. When it proofs to be, I'll have one later on this year!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bram Bos
a Weekend Warrior
from Assen, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: January 14, 2003
Standard except: - Front Shock: Magura/Rond Quake C85 (great coil fork) - Time ATAC pedals - IRC Mythos XC 2.1 - Magura HS33 - XTR shifters
Bottom Line:
I was worried when I learned on this website that some bikers cracked their 2000 Sugar frames. Since I'm a 210 pounds (not all muscles unfortunately) I was afraid it would happen to me to. Then something else happened. Since I'm using Magura HS33 brakes I also use their standard brake booster. The lbs when mounting these on the bike, didn't take in account that this would limit the rear shock. When driving through a deep ditch the booster made contact with the seat tube... A dent in the tube was the result. The lbs apologized but couldn't do anything for me.... The salesrep from Trek said (and I can agree with him) that I had to settle with my lbs. Anyway 2 months later the frame cracked. I stripped the bike and took the frame to my lbs. This was February 2002. He expected a new frame within 6 (!) weeks. We agreed on me buying a 2001 Sugar 2.
The bike feels the same as the 2000 Sugar 3. The components are a bit better. I like the fact that I can dial in the rear shock. I now use less pressure and more compression damping. I didn't find the 100% setup yet. Sometimes the bike literally kicks ass, and since it's mine I dont't like it! The Magura/Rond is great. I've used Rock Shox (Judy), Manitou (SX and MARS) but like the Magura the best. It's very plush and super stiff.
I'm reading a lot of the complaints on the Bontrager stuff. I myself only have problems (so far of course) with the rear hub. It feels good when you feel it, it doesn't sound that way. On my hard tail Merida Matts Comp (1999 model all Deore LX) were Deore LX hubs, never had any problems. The handle bars, the stem and the seatpost are ok. They look good and survived my weight. The rims are good also! Haven’t had to true them till now. The front hub looks ok too. The crank set I'm not sure about. In a 50 kilometers tour through very wet and muddy conditions I experienced chain suck twice. Of course the chain stays got damaged. When I'm shifting from the large to the middle chain ring it's always smooth. Vice versa also. The little one you almost don't need under typical Dutch conditions so I've almost no experience with it either functioning or malfunctioning.
Since 2000 a lot of manufacturers are offering advanced 'no-bob' fullies. Next year I probably will trade in my Sugar 2 for a new one. I'm not sure if it will be a Sugar again. I'm impressed by the Fuels, NRS's, EPICS , Scalpels, Elements, ETSX's and lots of others (Merida LRS, Gazelle SkyStar FS, the 'old' but still very famous FSR) So I'll see. But this I think is a problem for any manufacturer; lots of MTB'ers like to try new stuff. For the design and the performance GF earns 4 chili’s. For selling these expensive (in Europe anyway) bikes with some 'suspicious' components only 3.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Basalt, CO Date Reviewed: August 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Boy Scout Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
rental fleet sell-off
Strengths:
fit, climbing, components
Weaknesses:
occasional chainsuck
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Marlin, Specialized Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Standard
Bottom Line:
This is a very good bike for a larger rider. I am 6'5" and the effective top tube length is comfortable and efficient. The bike climbs well and tracks exceptionally well in single-track descents. I obtained the bike after a 4 month rental season and have had no problems except a chain failure which ripped my rear derailleur and its hanger off. This problem I attribute to rental abuse and lack of chain lubricant service while in the rental fleet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Racer
from Las Vegas, NV Date Reviewed: August 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Navajo Lake Loop, Utah
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Genesis geometry, XTR & XT components, Crane Creek AD-12 rear shock, light weight Manitou front shock with lockout.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager pedals (garbage), all other Bontrager parts are somewhat of a compromise, but not significant.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 98, Fisher HKII, Specialized FSR....
Bike Setup:
Thomson Stem (needed longer and the Thomson is the sweetest stem around!), Eggbeater Pedals, Flite Trans Am saddle, replaced the Mars shock spring to accomdate my weight, the rest is stock because there is no advantage to changing anything else.
Bottom Line:
My biggest concern with this bike was its ability to climb, well after a few rides, I'm amazed. This bike climbs like a dream, as good as or better than my hardtails! While the Bontrager components are a compromise to the ego, they are nonetheless on par with more generally accepted components regarding performance.
I have to laugh at people who bash cranks……com’on cranks either break off or are fine. If the crank bolts loosen, then your bike shop needs to learn how to use a wrench! Same thing with seatposts, if it loosens, it probably wasn’t tight to begin with. If you have a bunch of issues, then you should have bought it from a more component bike shop. Take it to a shop where people have a clue. Even if the best bike in the world is set up crappy, the bike will be crappy.
I’m about 200 so not light weight user by any means. I did switch out the spring in the Manitou Mars shock to the “Firm” spring, as it should be for my weight. For a light weight shock, it is very stiff and responsive. I have literally tortured the front shock, and I have no complains. Most complaints regarding this fork are obviously due to incorrect set-up and user error, people need to take the time and set it up properly for your weight and preference.
I would highly recommend this bike for anyone looking for an excellent spec’d bike. No matter what bike I buy, I’m probably going to swap out the stem, saddle and pedals, that’s a fact of life for a picky rider. The components that need to there (like XTR and XT drive train and brakes, Cane Creek AD12) are not compromised, while other components that make no difference but can save huge amounts of money are swapped (cranks, seat post, bars, etc.). If your ego needs full XTR groupo and you don’t care what the cost is, look at the Sugar1 or another bike. However, there are no discernable differences between these bikes on the trail. That’s the beauty of the Sugar2, save some cash, and keep the ride quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from Halifax, NS, Canada Date Reviewed: August 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Moirs Mill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
T&L
Strengths:
Comfortable fit, lockout fork, light weight for the money
Stock except replacing Bontrager components as they break
Bottom Line:
My experience started when I noticed an o-ring on the outside of the rear shock. I assumed that it was supposed to be inside not outside so I took the shock apart. I could not see anything missing so I wrote Cane Creek. They got back to me the next day saying that Fisher had requested the extra o-ring be placed on the outside so that they could check the operation in the factory. Good idea, AS LONG AS YOU TELL SOMEONE!!!
On my first ride, my left crank arm came loose. Not off, but it required 4-6 rotations to get it back tight. My second ride was uneventful. On my third ride I had my first experience with chain suck (in over 30 years of riding), and bent my small chain ring going up a moderate hill on pavement. Fisher says could "VERY easily be set up". With over 50 kms on the bike and countless shifts, why is it suddenly "set-up". Did I mention that I have been riding and fixing bikes for over 30 years? The Bontrager wheels were out of true at the bike shop but I have built wheels, so was not concerned. Let's hope they hold up. The Bontrager seat post seems to slip. This might be the clamp but others I have owned in the past didn't slip. The seat post seems way too long for a medium size bike. People spend so much money lightening their bikes, then they go and put this long thing in there. Bikes come in different sizes, why don't seat posts? The forks work well but they do seem a bit flexible from side to side. The seat seems like a compromise between putting a real cheap seat that people will replace immediately and one that people will change after a month. The pedals would not have been my first choice either, but so far no problems. The Shimano derailleurs are great. The brakes howl but I'll take care of that.
I bought the bike because it was a steal at 33% off, rode well, and it fit well. I guess I'd like this bike more if Fisher's "customer support" had not so quickly blamed "set-up" for the chain suck problem with the Bontrager Race cranks, when so many others have complained. I read the bad reviews and just thought that someone had it out for the Bontrager gear. I guess I was just too trusting. I'll probably sell the thing this winter and try for a better bike with better components in the spring from a company that supports their product rather than tell the customer that they don't know how to set up their bike. I suppose it would help if the owner's manual had some useful information in it rather than one manual for every bike they make.
Finally, the customer support at Tommy & Lefebrve in Kanata is excellent. They switched out the Bontrager cranks for free, no questions asked once they saw the damage the chain suck had caused. They were very friendly and not bike snobs like many shops are.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
shawn Malloy
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston, MA, USA Date Reviewed: July 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
International Bikes, Boston
Strengths:
The geometry, the weight, ascending and descending capabilities, tight technical handling... basically everything
Weaknesses:
Manituo mars, bontrager
Similar Products Used:
pro-flex, cannondale, trek
Bike Setup:
Rolf propel, Rock Shox SID race titanium, XT/XTR drivetrain, Easton carbon risers and seatpost
Bottom Line:
This bike has made me a better rider by giving me the confidence that it will not fail under any conditions (short of full-on downhill). It practically begs to go faster and faster. I ride technical northeast boulder strewn trails all day and this bike hops up, climbs up and over, jumps off, and noses down everything. The Genesis geometry has you in the perfect position for everything. It will take a few rides to dial in the suspension. The front end changes helped this bike alot(risers and sid race) I got my bike as a demo from the LBS so the upgrades were affordable. I would recommend buying a Sugar 2 since the frame is the same on the sugar 1 and 2 but the components are different. The money saved is better spent on upgrades and to get rid of bontrager and Manitou. BE SURE TO BUY THE NEXT SIZE DOWN FROM WHAT YOU NORMALLY RIDE. Genesis geometry has a long top tube and the smaller size give great bike control.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Karen S
a Cross Country Rider
from Watertown, MA, USA Date Reviewed: July 15, 2002
Stock, will be upgrading cranks to 175mm XT's and XT bottom bracket, perhaps adding riser bars, longer stem
Bottom Line:
This is my dream bike...I love it. I really cant think of anything I would change except for the bontrager parts. It shifts beautifully, I have plenty of standover but am stretched out enough. I used to own a Trek WSD medium, which I found was very comfortable lenghtwise but I wanted more standover. The mens sugar small and trek medium WSD have the same top tube length, but there is more standover on the sugar (15.5" frame vs 18" frame). The mens small fuel was too short (top-tube). Fisher geometry is right on, bike climbs like a dream. I love Gary Fisher bikes, they are the best...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Cross Country Rider
from Massachusetts Date Reviewed: July 4, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Alley
Strengths:
Its a great bike. it climbs confidently and actually decends unlike some race hardtails.
Weaknesses:
As if it hasn't beeen said a million times in these reviews the tires, they suck! And how are you supposed to get them of the rim, with some DH tire levers? And the chain broke on me, because it blows.
Similar Products Used:
.
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock.
Bottom Line:
This bike is great. Ive used it in the muck of the east coast and the fast hardpack of California, and this bike has been comfortalble, easy to control, and alot of fun. if you can sitll find this model year I say buy it, but if not look into the new sugars they are all great bikes you will enjoy them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a
from Rochester Hills, MI, USA Date Reviewed: June 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Pontiac Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Whahoo
Strengths:
Tracks well on all surfaces and climb well for an FS. The rear suspension eats up a lot of the chop that usually gets to me on my hard tail.
Weaknesses:
The tires are not that great and were replaced after my first wipe out on slightly loose ground. I also replaced the flexy crank and cassette with XT. I then swaped my XTR rear hub / 517 CM wheel with the weak Bont race. This solved that rear creak when cranking hard
Great bike, can't wait to see how it helps me place better at the next 24 race.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AZ XCRDR
a Cross Country Rider
from AZ USA Date Reviewed: May 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any Singletrack w/out Horses !
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Strengths:
The Geometry, the ride, perfect for XC use !
Weaknesses:
Bontrager spec'd parts...
Similar Products Used:
Many...
Bottom Line:
Okay, I cheated, I had my LBS swap out the Bontrager _rap for an XT crank, cassette, and bottom bracket, and I also upgraded the wheelset to a crossmax UST wheelset. I rode that for six months and never really felt comfortable or happy w/the flexy Manitou OEM fork so a couple of months ago I sold the Manitou on ebay and put on a Marz. Marathon S 80mm. The bike now just rides AWESOME and has whole new personality w/the Marz. on the front. I will say that I weigh ~ 195 pds so for you heavier guys out there getting a stiffer fork would probably be worth your time... Overall w/the upgrades this bike is a SOLID five chiles colorados !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hans Raven
a Cross Country Rider
from Harderwijk, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: February 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Bouillon, belgium Ardennes
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Geometry, climbing, fassst, weight for full suspension, No Pumping, both good for racing as marathons, just ride-rock-and-feel-good. saddle is comfortable. Did I mention fast?
Weaknesses:
Bike set-up: wheels bontrager race are not durable (walls) and weak, also trouble with body. Mars is weak and no rebound option. breaks are cheap, but they work.
Similar Products Used:
Giant xtc NRS, Trek Fuel (this one is more adjusted to marathon riding in stead of hard core racing/single track use in which the sugar is more suitable). The Giant suspension works good, but I didn't like the way the bike steers and feels on the track.
Bike Setup:
XTR Breaks, Crossmax wheelset, Manitou Black Elite Air.
Bottom Line:
Do you like to rock single tracks, climb fast, drive comfortable without energy-loss? This is your first choice bike. Take some rides to adjust the suspenions as you wish, and you'll gonna like biking like never before. With the Mars CL Fork I had some trouble, and during the fixing-time I got a SX-R fork as a replacement. I found out this fork was much stiffer, and I dindn't need the lock out with this one. After getting back the Mars CL, the bike didn't feel as good as it did with the much stiffer SX-R, model '00. So after a few diappointing rides, I decided to buy the Black Elite Air. This fork is Awesome: stiff, stiff, only 200 gramms more weight as the Mars (which you won't feel), plush. All this makes the bike steer and descend much better, it also responds better to bumps. The wheelset of Bontrager sucked: though it's light, I had to replace the body after only six months, it sounds like a coffee-machine, the rims are not durable and they are far from stiff. So I gave myself (as a christmas gift) the Crossmax Wheelset, and they are superb!! The bike rolls much better including excellent acceleration, it feels stiffer en steers even better than before! And they look cool, but are expensive. Last, and only disadvantage of the bike: when you use wide tires (2.0) in very wet and muddy conditions, like Michelin Wildgripper Sprint, mud will settle between the frame on the place where the rear brakes are and the tire, causing your back wheel to stop rolling. Smaller mud tires (panaracer trail blaster 1.8), and problem is solved. 2002 model has other bridge with more space between bridge and tire. Conclusion: after more than a year of hard an intensive riding, in all conditions (single tracks, fast tracks, hills, mountains, road, races and marathons) I can say that this bike made me love mountainbiking even more! 5 bullets for both. The replacements I did are worth it, but I liked the bike also when it came out of the box.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
K. Holden
a Racer
from the "kan", WA Date Reviewed: November 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Dump Victoria, BC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Trek Industries
Strengths:
Hard-tail feel with the edge taken off in the ruff or cranking down your favorite trail. Light race ready machine. Shimano XT/XTR drivetrain, mars, wide bar!, reliable bontrager parts.
Weaknesses:
The lack of a firm spring, manitou took care of this nicely at Nationals. Light and styling but flexly and short cranks. Grips need to be beefier. LX cassette makes a nice training cog, races need the XT 11-34. Nice wheels but they are not the race-lites/hugi240.
Similar Products Used:
Supercaliber, hairy-gary hard-tail, ooh so sweet!
Bike Setup:
Ahh who cares. Everyone whines about their bike and I don't think the problem is in the bike or its weight. Instead of buying $500.00 worth of new swag to get better, look cool, or lose weight, just go out and ride. hell I race and get my ass kicked by the best of them and it has nothing to do with what i ride. It's about the knowledge that everyone out there has the same twisted, rooty, knawrl decent and same sweet course as the next guy so just enjoy it all.
Bottom Line:
Sweet bike for racing at nationals to railing with the bros up at the local dropfest.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
P.O.D.
a Cross Country Rider
from AZ Date Reviewed: October 30, 2001
This is for the Sugar 2+ until they get it posted. I was riding a Mongoose hardtail, which I named "sluggo" cause it was beating me senseless. What a change /w the Sugar+! It's like riding a lounge chair! I had hit South Mountain yesterday, and rode all over the place, including some serious down hill trail. The statement on the bike design keeping your weight balanced on the back wheel is so true. Nice tight steering, cockpit tight but comfy.I have had problems at first /w shifting under load, the front seemed like it couldn't decide which ring to stay in. A visit to Supergo, a quick adjustment, now it works great. (I have noticed the rear dr buzzing a bit still on climbs though) The Bontranger Race crank is the new n improved for 2002. We shall see. I will keep this updated as time goes. 4 value for the Bontranger parts, 4 overall
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff J
a Cross Country Rider
from Pullman, Wa Date Reviewed: October 29, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
B&L Bicycles
Strengths:
Weight, looks, componentry (finally xtr thanks gary), geometry is the best on the market, xlnt stock componentry (mostly), yeah
Weaknesses:
Whats up with that seat? Put it on a hardtail and you realize how shibby it is. Still skimping on bottom bracket and cassette. SHame shame, gary. My fork flexed like a... a... flexy thing. The upper stantions became off balanced, 2 times after sending it back, otherwise its a VERY plush fork and the lockout is fantastical.
Similar Products Used:
'99 Big Sur, 2001 sugar 3, 2001 procaliber (or supercaliber whatever it was last year), GT I-Drive
Bike Setup:
Stock except for: Race face cranks, SRAM Rocket half pipe shifter (BEST ON THE MARKET W/ XTR REAR D.) xt cassette, xt bb, narrower bar (xc bike w/ a dh width bar?) Bontrager FS 2000 (first model, all embroidered stitching and all. It looks pretty) Rock shox sid XC (2000 model, black)
Bottom Line:
This bike kicked my a§§age. I bought it with the intent of racing, but when i started training in late winter i kept getting sick and getting behind. then school started. I didnt even go to the mountain once with this bike.
Around town this bike is spectaculamazing! I highly reccomend this bike to ANY professional racers.
I am a bike mechanic dood and i give this thing 5 thumbs up! 2 stars! Or something like that. Anyways i love working on my bike, beings i've been doing steep climbs, my new calbes will stretch, and i'll just pop down and re-adjust my rear der (XTR) and hop back on, within 2 seconds delay i'll be back at it.
Beuatiful technology, dump the XT shifters and front fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Bolton, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: October 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Three stages
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
end of year sell off
Strengths:
Great confidence builder in the rocky,rooty, slippery stuff.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz ultralight
Bike Setup:
Stock except tires: XT front, XTR rear Velociraptor back tire, Panaracer Front
Bottom Line:
Great Atheletes make difficult stuff look easy. This describes the sugar 2. It rides responsively like a hardtail untill you need the rear suspension to work. It really shines in the rocky technical trails. Technical slippery, rocky climbs are so much easier than with a hardtail. Rocky, rooty,downhills are a breeze. The antibob (lock out) feature on the front fork is great for the ride to the trails. I changed the tires right away.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
W Bruce Bunn
a
from Plattsburgh,NY Date Reviewed: October 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Moose Mt. Pond, Adairondaks
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Maui North
Strengths:
This bike immediately took 4 minutes off my time in a local @45 minute race. It accelerates fast, so fast that I have needed to be more careful in technical sections not to fly too fast. It really adds confidence in technical downhills and it climbs great, better than my hardtail in rocky uphills. The B-link suspension with the carbon seatstays somehow allows for better "in the seat" spinning through rough sections while maintaining a great stiff feel on smooth "all out" sections especially with the front fork lockout.
Weaknesses:
I have also noted that even when dialed in, I sometimes throw the chain shifting to the small ring on the front. Not a common event. The WTB nanoraptor tires are great for hardpack dirt road but are otherwise a TOTAL waste of rubber!
Similar Products Used:
Suger 4
Bike Setup:
Panracer fire XCs, Specialized body geometry seat, Shimano 858's (I like them after you break them in!)
Bottom Line:
Like a Disney World ride every time I ride. My skills skyrocketed soon after getting this bike. The Mars elite comes with a "medium" spring that is way too plush for anyone over 170 lbs, but that is easy to fix. Don't buy this bike if you are not a real aggressive rider, it will just feel like another hardtail to you. If you like to crank fast in the seat through highly technical terrain this is the bike for you. You will be able to conserve alot of energy by not needing to stand up every time the going gets a little tough. I'm a sold FS fan. This bike kicks hardtail @#* in technical singletrack.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bushido
a Weekend Warrior
from conejo valley, ca, usa Date Reviewed: September 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
they are all good
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
climbs like a mountain goat, descends technical sections with confidence.
Weaknesses:
drops chain when shifting to small ring(when under power). had problem with free hub. LBS replaced it and its ok now. Tires
Similar Products Used:
GT
Bike Setup:
Mars forks, Cane Creek shock, Panaracer Fire XC Tires, XTR-Xt, Bontrager wheels.
Bottom Line:
This bike will make you a better rider. My skills have tremendously improved. Climbs anything especially technical sections.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Nedzi
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: September 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mont Bello Open Sapce Preserve
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Cycles
Strengths:
Suspension, Geometery, climbing, light weight
Weaknesses:
Tires, handlebars
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
stock, with Easton monkey light high rise handle bars, michelin wildgripper in front, Panracer fire xc rear
Bottom Line:
This bike is excellent. It is great for cross country, the downhill is excellent and the climbing as good as anything. We have very good down hill riding out here and it has really improved my speed.
I didn't like the original geometery, I was too far over the handlebars, so I got the High rise handlebars and that made a huge difference. I am 5' 6" and the small is perfect with the new handlebars.
The new tires really help on loose pack. The stock tires are fast on the road but thats not where I do much riding. I ride everything from fire road to off trail. Alot of the stock Bonetrager components(seat post, pedals) and the Avid brakes work but are nothing special.
The bike is very light and performs excellent. If you like the fit buy it. I got to hand it to Gary this sugar is very sweet!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dustin Palmer
a Cross Country Rider
from The Colony, TX Date Reviewed: September 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
North Shore, Grapevine TX
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Bicycles Inc. - Euless
Strengths:
*rear shock (AD-12) *front shock *everything in between the above two
Weaknesses:
*nothing I've experianced
Similar Products Used:
*test road hard tails; F/S is the way to go
Bike Setup:
*Bone stock except for the XTR/Dura Ace Chain
Bottom Line:
I changed the chain out due to the fact that I read about others on here complaining about the HG-72 chain it came stock with. Most of my friends ride with the PC99 chains, but I'm kinda partial to Shimano. In short, I didn't ride the Sugar2 but once with the stock chain, and that was for the test/demo ride; I can't tell a diff. in performance.
The Sugar2 is flat Awesome, and I highly recomend it to everyone. Like most everything, componetry is an issue. The only recomendation I'd make would be to have Garry start using more Shimano XT/XTR parts and get away from the Bontrager items. I also think the Sugar2 should come with an XT rear cassette, but that's just my opinion (nothing wrong with the LX it has now yet though).
Highly recomended to all, but by no means am I an expert. This is my first bike, and I plan on possibly purchasing a Hard Tail next year sometime so I can be more versatile in my terrain selection. Overall however the Sugar2 is very much "sugar" for what you get; you DO get what you pay for with this MTB.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Ward
a Cross Country Rider
from Chehalis, WA, USA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
can't tell ya
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Bothell Bike and Ski
Strengths:
Great climber, semi-light, good component mix, good all-around xc bike.
Weaknesses:
OE tires suck unless you live in Moab. Brakes are not as strong as would expect. OE rims are good for racing, but don't hold up to hard xc riding day in and day out.
Similar Products Used:
Marin FS (one day, 1993 Balance AL 550 (upgraded over time)
Bike Setup:
Cane Creek AD 12 rear, Mars Elite front shock, xt shifters, ft derailleur, xtr rear, bontrager crankset,seat posts, bar avid brakes, WTB laserbeam 32h rims with xt hubs, panaracer fires 2.1, time pedals.
Bottom Line:
Overall, the bike does what I wanted for a fs xc ride. Long 3 to 5 hour rides are fun (considering I was riding an aluminum telephone pole with wheels). It climbs very well, in fact I think it has improved my technical climbing skills (although my cardio is still the limiter). My back does not hurt after an epic "where the hell are we" ride. It descends easily, and absorbs big hits well. It shines going down fast tight single track with technical and washboard sections thrown in. I am improving, but have not maxed out the descending abilities of this ride.
It does however, pick up mud and muck and packs it aroung the rear pivot points and tire. Since this is my first fs bike (the marin was a one day loaner), I'm not sure if that is the case with all of them. Ignore the Cane Creek specs for air pressure, too high. The oe bontrager wheels are nice and light, but don't seem to hold up on hard riding day to day. I mounted a set of 1.9 Fires on them and save them for races. Ditch the oe tires (nanoraptors) if you ride in any type of loose terrain. I plan on improving the brakes over time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marcus Wikström
a Weekend Warrior
from Sweden Date Reviewed: August 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hellas
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$29.00
Purchased At:
Cykloteket
Strengths:
Great genesis frame, componets, superb brakes and good looks.
Weaknesses:
The pice! The tires, the noise and an angry girlfriend.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Cindercone.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
The frame is awsome, and so are the compnents. The bike is by far the most comfortable bike i have ever used, and it dont need to much service either. This is the first full suspension for me, and i can honestly say that the switch was well worts it, even though the pice was a bit higer than i could afford, but who cares?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Benoit
a Racer
from Charlotte Date Reviewed: August 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Catawba Riverfront Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
SouthPark Cycles
Strengths:
I feel its a great all around bike.
Weaknesses:
If pivots are not cleaned it makes noise.
Similar Products Used:
GT I-drive
Bike Setup:
I have it setup for racing, it has 120mm stem, tubeless tires, raceface cranks carbon.
Bottom Line:
I think the bike is great. I,m currently leading the points in the Cane Creek Cup Series for sport class 19-29. The bike has really held up good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Cross Country Rider
from Northern NY Date Reviewed: August 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Thompson
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Light and fast! A great climber.
Weaknesses:
LX BB and cass, wheelset, Pedals, and tires.
Similar Products Used:
FSR and Superlight
Bike Setup:
King hubs, Easton carbon bar, XT cass., Fire XC tires and Time pedals.
Bottom Line:
This is a great XC platform to work with. With a few upgrades it is a killer bike. The front and rear shocks are both light and work well. The rear wheel was trouble from the beg. After a month the rear bearings developed play and went out of true. The LBS fixed it but it returned a few rides later. I got rid of the wheels and got a set of King 517 wheels that are lighter and bombproof. The pedals are junk so I changed them out to Times. The tires have there place (dry cond.) but I needed something that was a little better all around. Aside from those few things this bike rocks. I have an XL size and it is still superlight and climbs like a goat. I would buy this bike but swap some things out before you leave the shop. Gary has this frame dialed in. Ride on!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thom Randolph
a Cross Country Rider
from Newcastle Date Reviewed: August 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tommy Creek Loop, Entiat WA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1899.00
Purchased At:
Gregg's Greenlake
Strengths:
Great Ride, see review previously
Weaknesses:
Yikes! The chain broke!
Bike Setup:
see previous review
Bottom Line:
Okay, I've been riding for years and years, and replace the chain when I replace the rings and cassette. But I've never ever had a chain break on me. Not even when I was a kid.
Anyway, if you buy this excellent bike, and put miles on it, replace the chain as soon as you can. If you can't afford a good chain, then buy a spare derailleur hanger piece ($15). No, really. I got 8 miles up the side of a mountain and had the chain break. As it did, the spread-out link threaded its way back, jammed in the rear derailleur, and broke the rear derailleur clean off. The bike and chain had about 40 days and 900 miles on them.
Luckily, the breakaway mounting tab kept the frame from being damaged, but the XTR derailleur now has more slop than a hog farm, and will need to be replaced. It somehow munched a spoke in the process.
So, do yourself a favor and ditch the Shimano chain. Don't ruin an afternoon by turning your shiny new ride into a single-speed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Cross Country Rider
from Redwood City, CA Date Reviewed: July 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
South Leaf at El Corte De Madera
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Cycle (Redwood City)
Strengths:
Price, Components, Weight, Frame Geometry
Weaknesses:
Tires
Similar Products Used:
First bike with any suspension
Bike Setup:
Time ATAC Carbon Pedals, Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires, Shortened bars
Bottom Line:
This bike is amazing! The Genesis frame geometry is not just hype, like I assumed. It really does get your booty hanging out over the rear wheel. This bike climbs WAY better than my old suspensionless bike. I can stay seated up super steep stuff a lot longer than I could before. I can also pull off technical climbs and descents that I flailed on before (For those of you in the bay area, try coming up South Leaf at El Corte De Madera if you want to test your technical skills ;) ). When they say no bob they mean it. Climbing is smooth. The front shock lockout seems kind of pointless though. It climbs nicely without it.
Everyone here hates the tires. Since it is dry here I thought I should at least try them. Nope, they suck. They suck on anything but asphalt or hard pack with no dust or gravel. The Panaracers made a HUGE difference over all terrain.
I didn't try the pedals, since I already had the TIMEs. So no comment there.
The handlebar is way too big. I had the shop take off 2.5 inches right off the bat. They started at 24 inches!!!
Overall this is an excellent XC bike. Well worth the low $1700. BTW, if you want one, get it at Pacific Cycle in Redwood City. Those guys gave me a sweet deal and are super cool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kate B
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose,CA Date Reviewed: July 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Montebello Open Space
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycles
Strengths:
Overall great bike. Enjoying my first FS ride.
Weaknesses:
Stock seat sucks, changed it out for Selle Italia Trans Am, added different bar ends. Tires are ok in the dry west, haven't had any trouble with them. Occasional clip in problems with the Bontrager pedals. I've stuck with them though. I think they would be tough in muddier conditions. Handle bar is a little bit wide, but I haven't gotten around to shaving off about 1/2 inch per side.
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for seat, bar ends
Bottom Line:
I'm 5' 6" and 130 lbs. This bike works great for me. Super on the downhills, not too bad on the uphills. The Manitou lock out can be a little bit finicky at times, but usually works. I would highly recommend this bike to anyone out there!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Barnette
a Weekend Warrior
from Chesterfield, VA Date Reviewed: July 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Poor Farm, Ashland VA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1699.00
Purchased At:
Agee's
Strengths:
Fast, Fast, Fast, hardtail like climbing and handling, good mix of components, genesis geometry adds a nice balance feel
Weaknesses:
Saddle, tires
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is my first full suspension bike and it's awesome. The bike rides like a dream. A lot of reviews say this bike is terrific for tall guys, but I'm 5'9 180lbs and the bike fits me fine. The genesis geometry adds nice feel. You can really tell a difference in climbing and fatigue.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thom Randolph
a Cross Country Rider
from Newcastle, WA Date Reviewed: July 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tommy Creek Loop, Entiat, WA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1899.00
Purchased At:
Gregg's Greenlake
Strengths:
Good fit, stable on twisty trails, excellent climbing and descending, excellent in rock-gardens and gravel alike.
Weaknesses:
individual components are not the best, but that's what make the bike affordable. If you want better components, get a sugar 1. Otherwise, swap the parts at purchase, and upgrade later. One strange thing. I upgraded the brakes to XTR, and the brake bosses in the rear don't seem to fit correctly. The brakes don't seat completely, owing to a "D" on the boss. Haven't looked at it too much, but it's possibly a long-term reliability issue. Also, the bar is wider than I was used to, so I replaced it. Seems like a good, sturdy bar. The anodization is rather weak, though. The shop scratched it when they took off the bag holding the manual!
Bike Setup:
Stock rear suspension, Changed Mars sprint to Extra Firm, Easton carbon (flat) bar, Mavic CrossRide wheelset, 11-34 XT cassette, XTR brakes, better saddle, different grips, Single Track Solutions ST-Lite bar ends (http://www.singletracksolutions.com)
Bottom Line:
This bike is great. I'm a hardtail die-hard, but looked at this bike based on the reviews here. I ride about 180 miles per week; I've had the bike for 25 days, for over 550 miles. Not much time, but plenty of miles to know it's a winner.
The sugar 2 handles exellently in tight, twisty singletrack, going over logs, roots, ruts, rocks like a magic carpet ride. Same is true for overland trails. The large rocks (baby heads?) used to slow me down, but the sugar 2 glides right on over them.
On Taylor mountain, there's this two-mile, very steep gravel road that I come down often. It's totally rutted from rain, and it's got loose sections from horses crossing. The old bike scared the piss out of me when I'd get stuck in one of the ruts; at 30 MPH, it just wouldn't come out without slowing. The sugar 2 feels like it floats over the ruts. No problems getting in, out, crossing them, nothing. It was beautiful. I laughed all the way down.
The only downside I found to the bike was in the front shock. I'm no lightweight racer (5'10", 210lbs), and the front shock was way too mooshy. I had some trouble finding the black spring from Manitou (see my review under shock upgrades), but once I got it, problem solved. No more diving when braking with the fronts, and a much more balance suspension overall. I definitely recommend reading the Mars manual with careful attention to the spring ratings. Pumping up the air didn't significantly affect the spring compression rate at the top-end of the travel, which is where most light hits show up. Having too light a spring made the front feel skittish, giving little confidence it was going to go where I pointed it. Changing the spring made it ride like an arrow.
If you like your paint job, watch for chips on the bottom of the chainstays. Especially the right-hand side. That's the only place where they've shown up so far, but there are quite a few there. Must be the gravel on the roads here.
So, if you're into single-tracking and cross-country, this is a great bike. Don't even consider it for freeriding or bighit; not enough travel there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: July 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tuscany Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Soma Cycle
Strengths:
Genesis Geomentry, weight, AD-12 Shock, Mars Fork, Disc mounts
Weaknesses:
Tires!, LX BB, Seat
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 90 Disc, Giant XTC NRS 1
Bike Setup:
Mavic X317 Disc Wheels w/ XT Disc Hubs, XT Disc Brakes, Sram 9.0 Shifters and Rear D., XT BB, Pan. Fire XC Pro Tires (2.1 front, 1.8 Rear), Time ATAC Pedals, Cane Creek Ergo Control Bar Ends, Swapped seat
Bottom Line:
This is my second Sugar 2 in two years. I tried the Fuel 90 Disc and NRS 1, but love the geometry of the Sugar. Great for descending and climbing - That's why I went back. The Cane Creek AD-12 and the Mars Fork w/anti-bob are better than last years offerings. My biggest complaint with last year's Sugar 2 was not having the rear disc mount. This year had one so I splurged and went for the disc upgrade. Well worth it - Love having disc breaks! Great stopping (once broken in), and no mud build-up on the bike when it gets messy. Went with the Sram stuff for something different - so far so good. Time pedals are the best! The stock tires had to go. Having the 1.8" in the rear is working good: great traction and no mud build-up. Overall the Sugar 2 is the best XC F/S bike out there for me 2 years in a row!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam O
a Cross Country Rider
from Rochester Hills, Michigan Date Reviewed: July 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bloomer
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Wahu Bicycle in Rochester
Strengths:
FAST, Gorgeous, Climbs like nothing other.
Weaknesses:
Nah-dah
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn and Trek Hardtails
Bike Setup:
stock with a few add-ons
Bottom Line:
The bike is perfect in everyway possible. I'm 6'3" 210lbs and the bike fits me like a glove. Descending and climbing is easier because your arse is over the back fell giving it traction. Also, girls love this bike, it's a virtual chick magnet. It's the bike version of the Porshe.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Parker
a Racer
from Natick Date Reviewed: July 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
albayati@ne.mediaone.net
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Belmont Wheelworks
Strengths:
Frame geometry, minimal weight, excellent component mix for the $$ (why buy a Sugar-1?), FAST FAST FAST
Weaknesses:
Stock tires not appropriate for all parts of the country, anti-bob on Mars fork is touchy, stock saddle is trash
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel, many hardtails
Bike Setup:
Stock save for Flite saddle and Topo bar ends. Will add Panaracer Trailblaster tires next.
Bottom Line:
The Genesis Geometry thing is not marketing hype! Gary has this bike DIALED. It is stable, forgiving, and at the same time handles like a crit bike (that's a real fast-steering road bike, for all you dirt-only types). I knew in the first 2 minutes of test riding that I was not going to find a faster DS XC race bike.
That said, this is not a mountain bike for everyone. It has minimal suspension, designed to go fast, not go plush. If you often use words like 'dropoff' and 'huck' when speaking of bikes and bicycling, you will not be happy with a Sugar. If, on the other hand, your bike vocabulary commonly contains words like 'win', this is the bike for you. The rear suspension makes seated climbing unbelievably easy - I can ride up all kinds of things that I used to push my hardtail up - 100% due to the traction advantage in back.
Two stock components bother me, however. First, the WTB Nanoraptor tires are totally out of place in New England, or anywhere with mud and loose, loamy soils. No cornering bite at all, especially in the front. They are very fast on pavement and fire roads, however, and I'll probably keep 'em and put 'em on my commuter bike for that reason. The Sugar will get Panaracer Trailblasters (I'm going to try out 2.1 in front and 1.8 in back; will review them when I've ridden them for a while).
Finally, the Mars fork, while it does a good job as a suspension fork off-road, has lost its lockout. This makes the bike very hard to ride out of the saddle, but that's really only a consideration on paved roads and very smooth dirt, since the frame geometry makes seated pedalling much faster on any sort of real off-road terrain. I will probably take the bike in to the dealer to have this looked at, if I can quit riding it for a couple of days!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Weekend Warrior
from waterford, NY, USofA Date Reviewed: June 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
does not matter
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1899.00
Purchased At:
the downtube
Strengths:
weight...so light, speed, goes up a hill like an animal
Weaknesses:
bottom bracket makes a noise on sertain gears and it wont go in to second gear
Bike Setup:
stock except for the tyres
Bottom Line:
the bottom line is that this is a great bike on the trails and off. gettin used to the peddals though and have a couple of hip bruises from not clicking out on time. it mixes comfort and speed together to make a dream bike. the gears are a little messed up but its not stopping me and ill get it fixed next time i go to the shop. its pretty good now and any one that likes to ride get this!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Olds
a Weekend Warrior
from Louisville Date Reviewed: June 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Otter Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Schellers Fitness and Cycling
Strengths:
Excellent and sturdy equipment all around Stiffness in the frame with flex when it counts truley adjustable suspension with air both in the front and tha back, Lockout on the Manitou Mars!
Weaknesses:
tires, they had to be realpced immediately
Bottom Line:
Solid deal when compared to the Klein Adept series, to have gotten the same equipment setup on the Klein I would have paid $500 more for the same geometric frame, the Klein looks a little different but look closely at the rear suspension. A note, Trek now Owns Klein and Gary Fisher so the rear suspension on the Sugar, Adept, and fuel series bikes are almost exactly the same, except on the fuel there is a linkage system which gives the fuel a more plush ride while the Klein and the Sugar push more directly on the rear shock giving them a stiffer ride, but look close at the design of the chain and seat stays. Buy this bike if you want quality equipment and a hard tail ride with flex when it counts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: June 11, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Sporting Life
Strengths:
Frame geometry, components, feel
Weaknesses:
Tires, ground clearance
Similar Products Used:
Specialized M4 hardtail, Santa Cruz Superlight
Bike Setup:
Stock except for riser bards and full knobbies (I chose IRC Mythos and love how it bites).
Bottom Line:
I am really impressed with the Genesis Geometry. This bike is all the Santa Cruz with about 40 percent less cost. Great fit for tall riders. I am 6'2", a 34 inseem and a weight that fluxuates at 192lbs.
Great Mars front fork. A littile heavier than the SID but way more plush. I feel as is I am floating. The design does not allow any bobbing in any gear so your dont loose power from your pedal stroke. She is a great climber and descends like its on rails. The Sugar 2 gives you a sense of confidence from the first pedal stroke. Kudos to MEC for the two thumbs up on the rubber reccomendation..
Sporting Life has done a wonderful service to the biking world. They have authored the policies, preceedures and customer service standards not yet acheived by any other store in any industry in this city. Others retailers should experience this standard. I, for one, was greeted by a young man named Eric who was obviously brought up right. What Eric doesn't know, he researches until he has the answer or solution. He returns your phone call within minutes, EVERYTIME. Knowledgable to a fault and the ability to properly communicate information to all....In short... a real nice guy with a great heart and good parents.
Moms, Dads, do yourself a favour and go see Eric.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a
from Highlands Ranch, CO Date Reviewed: June 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Buffalo Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Pedal'r
Strengths:
Smooooooth ride! Sugars are sweet.
Weaknesses:
Tires?
Similar Products Used:
GT i-drive, Specialized FSR XC Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for bar ends, Serfas saddle, and computer. The handle bar was too wide for me so I have cut an 1/2 an inch off each end so far.
Bottom Line:
This is my second review of this bike. I now have about 225 single-track miles on this bike and it keeps getting better and better. I have taken this bike to Fruita and up and down the Front Range trails and it is night and day from my old Specialized M2 hardtail, which I loved before getting this bike. As I said in my past review, I climb better, descend better, and am much less fatigued after rides. I had questioned the tires as has everyone else but haven’t had any problems since three early flats. I weight about 165 lbs and run 49-51 psi in the tires with 110 lbs of pressure in the front fork. This has been a good compromise between low rolling resistance, traction and shock absorption. My confidence has improved immensely with this bike and would recommend it without reservation. I even sold my hardtail since I cannot see me ever going back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill R
a Cross Country Rider
from Somersworth, NH Date Reviewed: June 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mt. A - Any and all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Wheel Power, Exeter
Strengths:
Climbing ability, Genesis Geometry, the general, overall, sweet ride
Weaknesses:
Rear mud clearance, Tires (they weren't even worth trying in NH) Rear Hub
Similar Products Used:
GT Idrive, Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock except for tires
Bottom Line:
I bought the bike and had the LBS swap out the tires before I even left the store. There wasn't a lot of point trying them out here in the wet New England spring. For the most part, very little of this bike is overly remarkable except for the fact that all of it works together soooo well together. The suspension is easily adjustable. I am 6' about 205 and I haven't had problem number 1 with the fork or the rear shock. Kudos to Gary for the choices on the parts!
This bike is far and away the most comfortable bike I have ever ridden. Everything about it inspires confidence and works quite well. The only problem I have had is the rear hub seems to have gotten a little noisy and the LBS is taking care of it as we speak. Shouldn't be a problem. If you are looking at FS, give this one a look, you will not be disappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John B.
a Weekend Warrior
from Vernon, CT. USA Date Reviewed: May 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Case Mountain & Wallingford
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Scotties - Willamantic, CT.
Strengths:
Genesis Geometry, Suspension, Climbing ability, Looks(but, really.. who cares?), All over general Performance and feel.
Weaknesses:
Tires .. They are very fast but, do not hold on the wet roots, rocks and loose dirt. Slip out on fast downhills.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Cannondale, Trek, Kline
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
The Genesis Geometry was an immediate comfortable fit. After racing road bikes I appreciate the panther like feel when in the cockpit. Most other bikes I've tried put my body too upright. Also, the "stretched out" front end gives the bike a secure feeling while screaming downhill. The rear shock and frame design has virtually no bob climbing and allows you to hold the line for minimal waisted energy. The carbon fiber seat stays add to the hard tail rear end feel with allowing the bike to absorb the big hits and leaving the hard hard rear feel on small obstructions. Top notch components at the price point also helped me decide wich way to go. My bike came from 1st run production. I received it at the end of Oct. 2000. So, "my point", out of the gate they were making a quality ride! I see other reviewers stating that the bike is good for tall people well, I'm 5'8" and 140 on a heavy day. So, this bike rocks for ALL sizes! My friends that have "other" brands and Fishers as well, "ALL" agree after a ride on the bike that the 2001 Sugar 2 is a fast and responsive, low bob, top bike in it's price range. Who cares about the tires? They are a cheap fix! I tried a bunch of bikes and it come down to what felt best below me for the money. My Advice >>>> GO GARY! Peace .......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Mankameyer
a Weekend Warrior
from Shawnee, Ks, Johnson Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Wheelers Bike
Strengths:
forks, shocks, and frame
Weaknesses:
original Mars fork
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y5
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I bought the bike in Jan. and the Mars fork was bottoming out and the anti-bob wasn't lockingout. Manitou techs and my dealer put their heads together (3 1/2 months) and went with 5 wt oil and heavier springs and that made all the difference. I'm 5'11, 188, ex motocycle trials rider and I am loving where this bike can take me. This frame and suspension allows me to hold my line rather than be bounced around through rocks and roots. It's more money than I wanted to spend but it's put the fun in riding again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Richmond,VA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001
Mostly stock, but put on my Specialized Team tires and Ritchey pedals.
Bottom Line:
I ride mostly singletrack in the deep Virginia woods, so the stock tires had to go. They would wash out in the corners and slip while coming off of roots and logs. I suspect there is going to be a lot of these nearly new tires hanging around in the houses of the people who bought this bike. Also, I transferred my old pedals to this bike so that I would feel comfortable while getting used to this new setup. So, I can't say anything about the Bontrager pedals. While test riding other bikes, I immediately felt comfortable in the cockpit of the Sugar. So, there has got to be something to this "Genesis geometry". I'm 6'2" so I was interested in what people were saying about this bike being comfortable to taller people. I loved the fit and the ride, so what can I say? I think the Mars fork comes stock with the "lighter load" spring, so it is almost too cush for heavier people, but I'm lovin' it right now. I'll put in stiffer springs later. I too am now a f/s convert as well as a Sugar convert. This is one NICE bike! Well worth the money. It even weighs the same as my hardtail, so I'm not losing anything there. I have noticed that the bottom bracket on the Sugar is lower than my hardtail, and I'm chainringing a lot of logs that I used to clean, so I have to be a little more careful. I'm also loving being able to rail over roots and actually pick up speed instead of losing it! Climbing seems to be no problem either. The tail end sticks to the ground on climbs. Since I was shelling out a lot of money for this bike I knew that whichever one I picked I was going to be stuck with for a long time. I am VERY happy with this bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Racer
from Fort Atkinson, WI Date Reviewed: May 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Trek Bicycle Store
Strengths:
Great frame, solid fork, great handling and climbing and descending, also probably the best fit for tall dudes.
Weaknesses:
Probably the stock drivetrain and the tires
Similar Products Used:
1999 Specialized M2 Pro, Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
Bontrager Racelite Wheels w/ Revolt SS, XT crank, chain, cass, and Avid 7.0 brakes, and the rest mostly stock.
Bottom Line:
This is really a great bike. I have ridden it every day so far, oh wait, it has been only 3 days, but I'm kind bored...
Anyway, from what I have experienced so far, this is an excellent bike. Basically the consensus is that the stock tires suck, and I also upgraded the drivetrain to stuff I know works very well, and moved the rest to my hardtail. I'm still getting the suspension dialed in, but it really has potential. There is hardly any bobbing when standing, it descends superbly (susp & genesis), and it surprisingly climbs better than my old hardtail. I love the fork as it is MUCH stiffer than my SID, has lockout, and I don't miss the adjustability lost with the basic TPC damping
It weighs 25lbs in the XL frame size if that matters. I don't know if I could really feel comfortable going back to a hardtail now, I have really become a Sugar convert.
I would highly reccomend this for anyone looking for a raceable FS bike, and would also suggest getting different tires, and upgrading the drivetrain after it wears out. So in short, its a pretty cool bike, its not a perfect 5, but to be fair with the sliding chili scale, I'll have to give it a 5.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R.V.
a Cross Country Rider
from Arden, NC Date Reviewed: May 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tsali, right and left loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Strengths:
Great looking bike.
Weaknesses:
The Manitou fork, bottom bracket and tires.
Similar Products Used:
Dean Bam-Bam. Yeti SRC.
Bike Setup:
Cane Creek Head Set, Race Face BB, Easton CT2 carbon riser bar, Easton CT2 carbon seat post, Mavic/GT ceramic wheelset.
Bottom Line:
I feel sure the Sugar 2 is an excellent bike with all of the great reviews it has received. However my experience has not been a pleasant one. I have ridden my bike 3 times since I purchased it on 02/23/01. The Mars Manitou fork has been the BIG problem. The anti-bob went out right away and I lost a seal in the same side. Manitou sent the parts to fix the seal hoping it would cure the anti-bob. It did not. After this I was unable to get the shock to hold the proper amount of air for riding. I could bottom the fork out with little effort. I then sent the fork back to Manitou for the first rebuild. When I got the fork back same thing, it would bottom out with little effort. Back to Manitou. In the meantime my dealer lost their Gary Fisher line of bikes. He still contacted his former Fisher rep. to see if he would help us upgrade or buy another fork, (preferably a SID SL), from Fisher bikes. I also contacted Gary Fisher bikes to see if they would help out. After a couple of sarcastic e-mails from Gary Fisher Bikes and no contact from the Gary Fisher rep. I have decided to keep my components and sell the frame and fork. The guy from Fisher bikes said they were'nt in the suspension business??....and couldn't......or wouldn't sell me a fork. Manitou also rebuilt my fork again saying there was nothing wrong and it should arrive back any day now. I guess my biggest gripe is paying what I did and not getting a good product or service. I feel like a manufacturer should stand behind their product and the componentry they select to sell with it. I feel Manitou has tried to help but Gary Fisher Bikes has not. Needless to say I won't be buying any more Fisher bikes. Sorry Paola.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Conrad
a Racer
from La Crosse, WI Date Reviewed: May 4, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Bikes Limited
Strengths:
The ride. The AD-12. The ride. Paint job. The ride. Drivetrain. The ride.
Weaknesses:
Tires, bottom bracket, cassette, headset, leaf&mud clearence, Tires, tires, no external rebound and dampening adjustment on fork and the lock-out doesn't count, brakes, wheelset(rear hub).
in a state of metamorphasis, but will be XT splined crank, XT cassette, Racelite or CrossMax wheels, XTR brakes, ICON in front, thompson seatpost Time ATACs, old old bontrager ti-railed saddle, maybe sid sl fork, but who knows. Oury Grips.
Bottom Line:
This bike rides like a freak, up and down it's way fast and I love it. I am picky about other bits abd pieces so don't listen to me. Except for the tires, they are horrible. And they are expensive tires I am not sure who thought they would be a good idea. But that person should be shot. Anyways if your a fence sitter buy one, you won't regret it. I love it to death. Some one can take it from me whenthey pry it from my cold dead hands.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ropie
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Back acres up north.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
chain reaction
Strengths:
Stiff r/s, and f/s lock-out, allow sherpa-like climbing capacity while non-locked f/s are sweet on rocky/ledgy downhills.
Weaknesses:
Tires, tyres... tiresome. Nooks and crannies for getting caked mud out.
Components stock with Profile bar ends. Upgraded wheelset to Mavic Crossroc UST Tubeless disk and brakes to Hayes disk.
Bottom Line:
Wouldn't usually provide but... I ride hard pack to mud to steep d/h weigh 190 lbs and am 6' 1". Large frame fits superb and shocks can handle the weight and varied terrain. Ain't the lightest bike for those folk so inclined, but can handle all that is thrown at it with finesse. Spent most recent weekend on fresh cut logging trails up north - picture 1-2 foot deep puddles, loose top soil, exposed fresh stripped roots, drops and very jagged rocks. Front shock was awesome for taking the initial hit and r/s sucked up remainder. Non-stock Michelin tires ripped through mud and top soil in puddles and loose uphill. Drive train puts up with alot but cleans up well to precision shift the next ride. Hayes disks a bit of a challenge to line up/dial in but even with all the sqeeking and sqwacking handle like a charm in mud fest. Would be 5++ Flamin' Chilis if the Mavic tubeless and Hayes were stock. Awesome rig!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Jacksonville, FL Date Reviewed: April 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bicycle's ETC
Strengths:
climbs like a goat, corners great, sturdy, genesis geometry
Weaknesses:
stock tires, other than that...none
Similar Products Used:
trek stp, fsr, merlin, GT Saddleback
Bike Setup:
Thompson stem, seatpost, RaceFace Next LP ISIS, RaceFace xc ISIS bb, Panaracer Fire XC, King headset, Selle Italia saddle
Bottom Line:
My previous entry for this bike was right on the money, back on 1/9. Now that I have had a chance to put some miles on it, I can say that this bike is truly unbelievable. I just got back from a trip to Tsali, and it performed great. The only trick is to be able to dial in just the right amount of air for the rear. I have mine set pretty stiff, so the downhills were punishing, but it climbs better than my hardtail Merlin did. The fork really only needs to be locked for steep climbs, but remember to unlock on your decent, or you'll chip a tooth. I have also taken it to do a couple of wheelie drops/jumps. Not it's forte, but it held up like a champ (another reason to keep the shock tight) This is my dream bike that can do it all!! If you are a hardtail junkie looking for something to take to edge off of the root systems, rocks and bumps, and still have a bike light enough to race (mine is a 24.7 lb. X-Large!) this is your ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zeke McCabe
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: April 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Shorline Trail, Dry Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Wild Rose, Salt Lake City Ut.
Strengths:
The entire package, frame is stiff and forgivivng, components are superior to 2000 model.
Weaknesses:
Tires, Bottom Bracket
Bike Setup:
I added Bontrager Crow bars, Panracer XC Tires, BN72 Bottom Bracket, Titec bar ends, XL spring in Manitou Fork, Time ATAC Pedals, XT rear casette, 140mm Bontrager stem
Bottom Line:
I have been riding this bike for just over a month now and have had zero problems. I took the advise from several reviews listed here and didn't even bother with the stock tires. I'm a BIG Guy 6'3" 260lbs, the Guys @Wild Rose helped me beef this thing up to take the added stress and so far so good. I look forward to this season and will re-review if I have any problems, however I don't anticipate any. I highly recommend this ride to any XC fanatic!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel Enthoven
a Cross Country Rider
from Palo Alto, CA Date Reviewed: April 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Virginia Mill at Corte Madera
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycle
Bottom Line:
I used to have a Fisher I liked, so I thought I'd go back when it was time for a new bike. This one has been pretty dissapointing. The tires aren't really appropriate for anything more than hard packed dirt. The peddles are second rate as well. I'm not sure the frame is all that strong, as I bent the rear triangle in a very low speed fall. The bad news is that the replacement triange costs $600, almost 40% of the bike. All in all, I think I would have been better paying more for a Santa Cruz.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mark
a
from charleston wv Date Reviewed: April 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
south hills ski and bike shop
Strengths:
frame and it xtr,xt components
Weaknesses:
tires
Similar Products Used:
trek fuels
Bike Setup:
race face ti bottom bracket,monkey lite carbon riser bar and continental explorer pro tires
Bottom Line:
the anti-bob on the mars fork did not lock out any in the beginning.problem was the oil level from the factory was at 5 inches(fine for the mars w/o the anti-bob)but should have had a oil level of 3.75 inches.it now works like it should by locking out completely.the continental tires give it great traction in all terrain from hard pack to mud.all other components have been working with out a problem.this has been one great bike so far and its looks like it will be for a long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Long
a Cross Country Rider
from Warren, MI Date Reviewed: April 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ft. Custer
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Antoons Bicycles (Best Shop in Michigan)
Strengths:
Incredible frame, components are awesome (especially for the price), love the suspension
Weaknesses:
None at all
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Homegrown Sweet-Spot carbon
Bike Setup:
Stock with bontrager race-lite bar ends
Bottom Line:
I just bought the bike recently, but it has proved itself so far. The components on it are great, the XT/XTR drivetrain will never let you down. I also love the Manitou Mars with the Anti-Bob lockout. I have heard some people say that it doesn't work, but mine completely locks out the fork, and I can go much faster when standing and sprinting/climbing. The Cane Creek AD-12 is awesome too. It is stiction free and superlight. As for the rest of the components, they are awesome too. I will probably end up putting Time-Atac pedals on and maybe some Gore-Ride On cables. I will review this bike again later after I put more off-road miles on it. 5 chilis here!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Highlands Ranch, CO Date Reviewed: March 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Deer Creek Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Pedal'r
Strengths:
Smooth rear suspension, rides like a hardtail without the kickback over bumps.
Weaknesses:
Tires? not so good in the muck, have not tried them yet on hardpack.
Similar Products Used:
GT i-drive, Specialized FSR XC Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for bar ends, Serfas saddle, and computer. The handle bar was too wide for me so I have cut an 1/2 an inch off each end so far.
Bottom Line:
So far the bike has been great. I am able to climb in or out of the saddle without the rear tire to spinning out. The rear suspension suppresses most of the vibration coming up from the trail. After a 1 and ½ hour ride, I felt very little fatigue for one of the first rides of the season. I will need several more rides though to give a full review. One point of note is concerning the tires. As other reviewers have stated, they are not the best in the mud and are not thorn resistant. I got a flat my first ride. One nice feature that I found was Velox cloth rim tape when I pulled the tire off. I am really looking forward to this season now that I got the bike. Now if it would only stop snowing…
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff
a Racer
from Pullman, WA, USA Date Reviewed: March 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
any/all single track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
B&L Bikes
Strengths:
Geometry, stock weight, love the tires!, suspension, drivetrain, love the mars/lockout. saddle
Weaknesses:
BB, Casette, shifters/levers, mars/lockout (see below)
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra, sugar 2/3 '00, sugar 3 01, 99 big sur, GT i-drive 5, 4, 3, various dh bikes
Bike Setup:
XT bb and cassette, SRAM 9.0 levers, SRAM rocket half pipe shifters (so sweet), race face headset, TIME ATAC pedals
Bottom Line:
Awesome riding bike. The tires are great for the intended use, fast, cross country racing. I compare these right along with the GEAX tires i rode last season. Awesome drive train, but read my bike setup for the replaced parts. I am always dissapointed at how they skimp on the non-viewable parts. My shifting is perfect every time, best i have ever ridden. what were they thinkin on those pedals? its totally ATACs all the way. i mean DUH. Love the saddle, going to get the same thing in TI i think. Great full range of Bonty race setup, shines!
NOW FOR THE MARS FORK W/ ANTI-BOB::: Beautiful travel. So plush, soft, yet firm and understanding. (? too obsessed i suppose) This fork is currently back at Manitou and my bike is down at the shop. Why? Well, on the side with lockout the stantion is wobbling side to side a bit. This causes my brakes to rub when i stand to sprint or climb. VERY annoying. They think it may be just a loose bearing. Lets hope so!!
Awesome for everything i do, everything i will ever need! (course that doesnt mean i wont upgrade, prolly get some race face cranks :) )
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: February 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Walker Ranch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1950.00
Purchased At:
Cutting Edge Sports
Strengths:
Awesome Sugar geometry, nice mix of components, great cockpit and nice balanced feel. Like they say, if it looks right it probably is...
Weaknesses:
Tires? Nanoraptors suck in the muck and wet; very slippery on wet roots and rocks. That being said, they seem a decent tire for dry hardpack (which describes 90% of the trails around here come the summer months.
Similar Products Used:
None. Why bother?
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Speedplay Frogs and Panaracer Fire XC Pro's. I'd consider giving the Nanoraptors a second chance when things dry out a bit.
Bottom Line:
For my first FS ride, I considered the Trek Fuel and also Giant XTC NRS but decided on the Sugar 2 based on three things. Firstly the reviews I read here on Gary's bike. Secondly the Trek has yet to be proven (although all indications are it would be a fine choice), also the Giant got raving reviews but seemed prone to breakage last year. Thirdly I got royally smoked on my hardtail by some dude on a '00 Sugar 3 on the downhill of one of my favorite trails last fall... so I figured if it worked for him it would work for me too! I wasn't disappointed; apparently they didn't name this bike Sugar just for it's looks. Bottom line is this is an awesome piece if you are looking for a quality FS XC ride. I can't believe the difference in feel over my hardtail; not only when blazing downhill at twice the speed I was comfortable with before, but also when climbing. With a good setup, I honestly feel like it takes less effort to climb with this bike than it did with my hardtail, especially on the steep and technical stuff. Go figure. Regardless, this bike is a killer and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade from a hardtail to FS.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan Gossett
a Weekend Warrior
from Greenbrier Arkansas Date Reviewed: February 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Budah - CARP trail system Camp Robinson
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Pauls Bike Shop - www.paulsbike.com
Strengths:
Everything - great bike - very capable xc machine
Weaknesses:
hard to mount the battery pack from my light system to frame - other than that - NONE
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Hardtail - demoed a sugar 3, a shwinn rocket 88, a couple of marin hardtails, and a couple of gary fisher hardtails
Bike Setup:
Stock - it is a very capable setup straight from the factory
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. I rode a Rocky Mountain hardtail for over a year, and decided to purchase a full supsension bike. After trying out quit a few models, I found that the sugar was one of the best values in the full suspension market. It is lightweight, has smooth suspension, without all the monkey motion associated with a machine that has four inches of travel or more. The welds are flawless, and the new shock system this year is butter smooth. I especially like the new anti/bob feature on the mars super fork. While demo-ing the bike I rode for a while with the fork locked out (unknowingly) and when I clicked it over I couldnt believe how smooth the travel was on the fork. The area in which I live in has a lot of rock gardens, and the sugar seems to float over these areas without having any problems at all. I highly recommend this bike to anyone trading in their hardtail to go full suspension. I know a lot of people dont like the limited amount of suspension on the bike, but if your not doing six foot drops, the bike will cover any ground can throw at it. Thanx to the guys over at pauls bike shop in little rock, they beat the other guys in price by over $200 - www.paulsbike.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Richardson
a
from NY, Ny Date Reviewed: February 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Central Park stairs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Metro Bikes West Side
Strengths:
Low weight, high durability. XT/XTR derailers. Wheels. AD 12. Mars.
Weaknesses:
Tires!!!! Hello? Who decided that one?. Integrated levers/shifters? Bottom Brackett. Brakes. XT would have been nice, something parallel push. Cane Creek headset.
Similar Products Used:
All 2000 sugars, 2001 s1, Fuels 80 and 90. FSR's, Homegrown's, Avalanches, Zaskars, Spooky's, BMW's, Klein's
Bike Setup:
BBUN72, Primo pedals, Panaracer fire XC pros, Chris King headset. Otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
This is a freaking great bike. The geometry is right. It's comfortable, clean and has nice paint. I work at a shop and have tested tons of bikes, the sugar 2 fits. Its a super efficient pedaling bike. I had a Klein and it was soo rigid. This bike on the otherhand is cushy without being too soft. The tires aren't nearly grippy enough. Mud might as well cancel them out alltogether. Because of the integrated levers/shifters, if you want disk brakes youve got to replace the shifters too. You can't see the low level UN52 Bottom Brackett when you buy it So be wary and upgrade to the 72 at least. Splined cranks and bb's are allways best but hey, go with what you can afford. As far as brakes go, they work but are not the best. The SD5's should be something parallel push, Wink Wink... Id say go with something xt or better to match your levers. Everybody knows the Chris King headset rules so go with your gut on that one. The frame, wheels, fork, and shock rule so no need to change them. If your a beginner or pro, this bike will feel good. My mom (53) even likes it. She says it feels comfy. All of the sugars are good bikes. They are efficient, fast and will improve your riding. Stay cool my gennisbrothers and gennissisters. Other bikes taste good, but nothing is as sweet as a Sugar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Bassin
a Cross Country Rider
from Astoria,NY Date Reviewed: February 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Roy's
Strengths:
GREAT Handling, beautiful workmanship, comfortable, and most of all...FAST!!!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Almost everything - Specialized FSR, Trek Fuel, Klein Adept, GT I-Drive, Intense Tracer (a little out of my price range) and anything I could get my hands on...
Bike Setup:
stock, except I changed to Velociraptor tires for the muddy winter.
Bottom Line:
I've been riding an old Bianchi steel mountain bike and been wanting a new bike for years. I've saved for a long time and been testing various bikes even longer. The shop guys were so cool and patient (there were times I was there every day). I was looking for a fast race bike, but wanted something that would take my abuse as well. I race sometimes, so I needed something that was light and efficient. I knew on the first ride that this was THE BIKE...it out handles everything else by far, decending better than bikes with twice the travel (so smooooth and extreme confidence that I wasn't going over the bars). Uphill is a dream...light and lively is the best way to describe it. You can change lines faster than any FS or HT I've ever ridden. This bike inspires me to ride. I've ridden every day since I've had it and it's snowed 3x in 4 weeks! Before I bought it I had to try the Fuel and Adept first. Both are really nice (similar design) but on the technical stuff, they just don't compare to the Sugar. Like I said, this is THE BIKE. One ride & you'll be hooked!!! Can I give more than 5 chilies?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa, FL, US Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Los Angeles
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Oliver's Cycle Sports
Strengths:
lightweight, solid, frame, components
Weaknesses:
not much...only the tires.......we replace them anyways....so maybe, no weaknesses
Similar Products Used:
trek fuel 100, cannondale raven 4000
Bike Setup:
sugar 1
Bottom Line:
There's all the hype about the fuels, but when I tested the sugars and the fuels, i fell in love with gary. Bottomline, this has got to be the best value for any mountain bike in its class. It's even better than some of the more expensive ones. This bike is so nice that you wouldn't even have to test it before you buy it. Trust me, it is all that!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a
from Kingsport, TN Date Reviewed: February 4, 2001
At this point I really don't have enough miles on it to give a complete review. I have a number of miles on an S3. I can't really tell the difference between the carbon stays and the aluminum on the S3. The Cane Creek AD-12 is an oustanding shock. The Manitou Mars is very suspect. I have to put quite a bit more air in the fork than the manual states and still can't get the same feeling as with my SID XC. The bike climbs suprisingly well. I really can't tell that it is a dual suspension bike, even on very strong out of the saddle efforts. The rear suspension is very nice on downhill sections, but should not be mistaken for more than what it is. The bike has less than 3 inces of travel and is not going to be super plush or soak up giant hits. For someone who rides XC and is interested in a dual suspension bike to take off the edge, this is the way to go. I must say that I really like Shimano's XT disc brakes. I realize that this is not a stock feature, but I'm glad Fisher decided to put disc mounts on this bike. So far, the bike is exactly what I hoped for. I will review again later this spring.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from San Bruno, CA Date Reviewed: January 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs, Henry Coe, SDF
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Frame, weight, components
Weaknesses:
Tires, pedals
Similar Products Used:
Fischer Big Sur
Bike Setup:
Stock expect for new tires and pedals (Time ATAC)
Bottom Line:
The stock comps. on this years S2 are much better than last years (so spend the extra $$ and buy a '01 rather than a disounted '00). This years S2 also has the same frame as the S1, last years did not. The pressure settings on both suspencions should be taken with a grain of salt, especially the rear. I set it about 30 lbs below what it says and it is still pretty stiff. The front fork has a lock out (or dampening) feature - some like it, personally I think it is fluff - almost completely unoticable to me. My first impressions of this bike are automatically to compare it with my Big Sur, which I adore. I feel this bike to be a bit more front tippy - more likely to do an endo (which I just did this weekend) than on the Big Sur (which I never did). That may or may not have to do with the bike though. So I did some measurements to compare the frames. Exact same top tube length, but the stem on the S2 is much shorter which is probably causing it to feel a bit different to me, so I may swap that out. Other than that, this bike rocks! I was totally against dual suspecion bikes until I tried this one. It has enough suspencion to make you faster on the downs, but not so much that it will slow you down on climbs. (And if you know anything about physics, this is good!). Overall, I am giving this 4 chillis, since I need to ride it more and really give it a beating. But make noe mistake about it, I love it so far and recommend it to those in the market for a fast XC dual susoencion....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Jacksonville, FL Date Reviewed: January 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle's ETC
Strengths:
same frame as sugar 1, upgraded component group, genesis geometry, feels like a hard tail
Weaknesses:
tires are known for being slippery, but Panaracer's will fix that
Similar Products Used:
stp 300
Bike Setup:
stock for now, but will have: Thompson seatpost, stem, MonkeyLite Carbon riser, Panaracers, Raceface next and splined BB from Chris King (whenever it comes out)
Bottom Line:
I demoed this bike and a Sugar 3 in an XL, and they are truly unbelievable. I have a Sugar 2 on order, and I can't wait to take it out. I will have to say on thing for these sugars. They are tougher than you might think. At the demo, I was amazed at the abuse they took and not a single problem. If you want a light FS that climbs like a hardtail, descends better than a hardtail and corners like it's on rails, move up to a sugar. Because there is no substitute. I will follow up in a few months to update. Thanks Demo Bob!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
T.J.
a Cross Country Rider
from McDonough, GA Date Reviewed: January 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Still searching
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1899.00
Purchased At:
Outback Outfitters
Strengths:
Good price for what you get, Anti-bob lock-out, Genisis geometry and pretty light to boot.
I tried a lot of different products before deciding on this bike. (And frustrated a lot of bike-shop owners). Truth is this bike handles very well. The AD-12 coupled with the Genisis geometry holds up great underneath my 215lbs. I get full travel out of the rear without bottoming out and it doesn't sag when I push it through the higher gears. The anti-bob is great as long as you remember you have it on. (Handlebar doesn't taste as good when you're expecting full-travel)I've experimented with the anti-bob and it helps tremendously on the ascents. Really keeps that front wheel on the ground. I've had the bike a little over a month and it's holding up great. Just make sure you have enough oil in the fork for the anti-bob or you'll lose it. I don't know if it's a manufacturer defect or a set-up error but the bike shop fixed it with a little lube. So far this has been a great rig. A great bike for the value. With my experience, which is minimal, I would recommend this bike to anyone but try 'em all before you decide.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Ness
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: January 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Hardtail-like climbing & handling, Weight, Genesis Geometry, Parts Mix. Anti-bob on the Manitou MARS fork really works.
Weaknesses:
Still a couple of LX-level parts for $2100 list price. (cassette, BB, Bontrager Race crankset).
Similar Products Used:
2000 Sugar 2
Bike Setup:
Stock but with Rapid-Rise derailleur, LX Hollowtech crank & BB, TIME ATAC pedals, XT cassette, Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires, LP Braid Jr barends.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is, it's better than a comparably-specced hardtail for all riding conditions, even though it'll be about a pound & a half heavier. I like challenging climbs (steep and/or technical), rolling singletrack, technical singletrack, steep descents (controlled, not fast).
My prior hardtail was a 98 Fisher Ziggurat (24.5 lb) which had a similar XT/XTR spec, and I also had a 2000 Sugar 2 for 3 months before it was stolen (but replaced with the 2001 by insurance, which has the Sugar 1 frame and upgraded shifters & derailleurs compared to the 2000 model).
The Fisher Ziggurat (Genesis) fit me great, and the Sugars have the same geometry so it's also perfect. I like the long top-tube / short stem setup, to keep the center of gravity back and my knees away from the stem. The weight is still pretty good - Large size about 26.5 lb stock - and I make technical/steep climbs as well or better than on the hardtail. But then once you're rolling level or going downhill the suspension is just perfect - makes for a comfy ride, nice & balanced. On rocky / ledge descents the rear suspension reduces fatigue on the feet (and the butt when seated), and I don't notice it bottoming out, so the 2.5 inches of travel is OK for me. I don't drops much over a foot.
The list price of $2100 is about $300 higher than the 2000 model, but you're getting the higher-level Sugar 1 frame, XT instead of LX rapidfires, XT & XTR derailleurs instead of LX & XT, so I'd say that's about fair. I've seen them in stores for $1899.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
The Fly
a Weekend Warrior
from Charlotte, NC Date Reviewed: December 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Slatyfork, WV
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
sun and ski
Strengths:
super-lite weight, solid components, lock-out bob on front fork, great price for what you get. Disc brake compatible.
Weaknesses:
tires are weak- you'll need to upgrade if you like more traction in turns
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr-pro stuntjumper
Bike Setup:
xtr rear/ xt front derailleurs, time pedals, bontrager race wheelsystem, manitou Mars front fork w/ anti-bob, Cane Creek AD12 rear shock
Bottom Line:
I've only had this ride for one month. So you'll have to let me try to kill this bike first before it passes the final test. However, I love what I've seen so far.
This bike exceeds last years Sugar 1 for the price of a Sugar 2. Talk about upgrades for the 2001 model. And it climbs up hills like a machine. it's extremely lite weight and easy to control. (I'm 6' and my medium size fits great)Gary's Genesis geometry and the swing arm rear suspension system really works. The energy in the rear shock is from the trail not from me pedaling like so many other full suspension systems.
The bottom line from one month of riding the Sugar 2; If your in the market, this bike will make you a better rider.
You really can't go wrong with any of the sugars. Because it's the frame and rear suspension that separates itself from the other bikes. just upgrade your components as they wear out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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