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Submitted by
Joe Brown
a Weekend Warrior
from
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$275.00 | | Purchased At: | Private Party | | Strengths: | Lightweight for Steel. dosen't come with suspension fork. strong rides great | | Weaknesses: | Gripshifters | | Similar Products Used: | 1999 Aquila | | Bike Setup: | Rockshox Dart 3 fork, all other components are stock | | Bottom Line: | I have put over 600 miles on this bike this year. I is a great bike except mine has some chips in the paint and some rust but i plan to put a clearcoat over those. Also going to get rapid fire shifters. I would recomend that you should buy this bike. I recently bought a Aquila frame and am going to build a bike with it. Rides just as well as 1999 Aquila even without Gennesis geometry. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
End Over End
a Weekend Warrior
from Evanston, Illinois, USA
Date Reviewed: May 8, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Foothills Trail North, Fort Collins | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$389.00 | | Purchased At: | Kettle Moraine Touri | | Strengths: | Strength of frame, strength of fork, price, and overall quality | | Weaknesses: | a bit heavy, and could have used a bigger front crankset, but that's nit picking | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhoppper, (stolen), Bridgestone MB3, (not mine), Fuji whatever, (piece of explative)....all from mid 90's | | Bike Setup: | Everything is original except for new Mavic rims, Serfas saddle, and Ritchey Speedmax tires...all due to a little fender bender I had | | Bottom Line: | I went into buying this bike 12 years ago with an attitude that no bike would ever replace my Rockhopper I rode in Ireland for three months, but when it got ripped off, I had to find something...I bought the Aquila in the middle of the winter at a tourist place in the middle of nowhere for a ridiculusly low price. I spent four years living in the rockies making this bike my punching bag; hitting rocks, stumps, and whatever else I could find only to bounce right off. I absolutely love this thing. Due to broken collar bones now I just tool around town, to and from work, and at charity rides, but I still love the smooth ride and indestructableness of the thing. I love cruising by people riding their $1500 bikes knowing they look at my ride and think to themselves, "that guy needs a new bike". The thing is, they just don't know. If you're a daily rider and part time mountain biker pick one up if you can find one. I'll never get rid of mine, I'll be 90 years old, and it'll be hanging on my wall at the old folks home. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joby
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin, TX, usa
Date Reviewed: September 7, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Country lanes around Austin | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | Discover Cycle (RIP) | | Strengths: | A real Gary Fisher, triple-butted steel frame--smooth, rigid, durable, and able to take any bump or hole without damage to bike or rider. Sexy purple frame with gray wheels. Everything held up well past its prime. | | Weaknesses: | None for what I use it for. | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing else in the last twelve years, though I've sat astride a few other frames here and there. | | Bike Setup: | 1996, 22" top bar, stock except replaced large chain ring for better road speed. | | Bottom Line: | I will be buried on this bike! I love the way the steel frame handles--stiff but smooth. It's taken me on long weekend road rides, on bike trails around town, and over some rougher terrain, though I'm not a fierce MBer. I've pulled two kids in a Burley trailer, and on a Burley Trailercycle, for many, many rides. Still pull my youngest on the TC, even though she's too big for it. The frame never complains--speed bumps, washed out gullies on gravel trails, roots, even rocks--I've ridden it everywhere, and I've pulled the trailercycle over some rough places. That's why I've never gone to a 700--I like being able to dive into the woods or creeks straight from the road, sometimes pulling a kid.
Bottom line--if you run across one of these frames, you won't be disappointed. The components are mostly original on mine, even, though a couple things could bear replacing. Brakes, especially. Original wheels are still good, though I don't do drops or jumps, so YMMV. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mickeydawrenchwench
a Cross Country Rider
from Corvallis, OR
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Dan's Trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$570.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclotopia | | Strengths: | You couldn't ask for a tougher frame, I hammered this thing for over a decade and its still great, woman/small frame friendly geometry, handles single track like a gecko on speed, smooth riding and did I mention its got a darn near bulletproof frame? Great on pavement and singletrack, outlasted my marriage and by far a better investment. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy. Original psycho tires picked up flats like alley cats pick up mange. Original cranks were sucky and sheared off on a random rock. The brakes are archaic (who needs brakes anyways, that's what wrecking is for) | | Similar Products Used: | Treks of various numbers, Mongooses, GT's, Giants, left them all broke or bent. | | Bike Setup: | Marz. Z3 Light forks, Shimano STX derailers & rapidfire shifters, can't remember what I replaced the cranks with, STX hubs on Mavic rims, Panaracer FireXCPro tires, WTB seat, can't remember what the rest of the upgrades were but the only stock part is the frame. | | Bottom Line: | It's an original Gary Fisher, from the glory days before Trek bought the label. I bought this bike in 1996 and I've abused it ever since. This thing has seen every kind of terrain from salt flats to hair raising deer trails that were never meant to be found let alone rode, and its performed like a champ. Rode the original rigid forks until I bent them backwards in a crash that left the frame unscathed and the rider a bit broken. Threw on the Marz. Z3 Lights and loved it ever since. Broke every single original component EXCEPT the frame, and if there's some chips in the purple paint job, that's only to be expected with the way I hammered on this. The original components were a little cheap, but they worked for a while, and really, its a Fisher, its meant to be upgraded. Gary Fisher made owning a solid piece of earth pummeling equipment affordable to the average wrench wench by producing buildable bikes, and build on it is exactly what I did. I STILL love this bike, and won't let go of it, although I wouldn't mind finding something a bit lighter for the creaky joint days. (can't wreck that many times and not come out of it a little arthritic 12+ years later).
If you can find one, buy it. Good luck prying mine away!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Dacula Ga
Date Reviewed: March 9, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Ft Yargo | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$130.00 | | Purchased At: | used | | Strengths: | Frame is very light for cro-molly steel. Also for older derailers it shifts very smooth. | | Weaknesses: | So far i cant really find any, im sure the rims and bars may not be the highest end. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary fisher Wahoo Disc | | Bike Setup: | Bought it used for 130. dumped another 100 for pedals,chain new Alivo shifters/brake combo and tune up. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike for my wife as a upgrade for her from a Trek 800 that has no suspension. The bike I have is a size small, as stated bought it for the wife. But I have been playing with this thing for the past few days and I really love this thing. It rides great, haven't had it off road yet, but from my experience it should handle awesome. If I can find another used one to fit me as a second bike, I will buy it in a second. The good old feel of steel is great, rides smooth, shifts great. If you find this frame, and its in good shape, even if you need to replace the rest of the components, BUY IT!! You will not regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
R Ford
a Cross Country Rider
from Aldie
Date Reviewed: August 10, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | My loop | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Strengths: | I have ridden my Gary Fisher Aquila since I purchased it in 96. It has held up better than any bike I have ever seen. This bike has seen Snowshoe, WV, all the Northern Virginia off road trails, SC swamp fox, SC beaches, Charleston, SC college life, and pulled a heavy child filled Burley all over the place without a hiccup. My Aquila still has a rigid fork although I have upgraded the drive train and added a riser bar, suspension seat post, and spd pedals. Awesome in the woods! The frame is nimble and climbs great. My next mountain bike will be a Fisher if I can stand not riding my triple butted steel Aquila! | | Weaknesses: | Nothing Kicks Butt | | Similar Products Used: | all | | Bike Setup: | Aquila frame, LX components, SRAM SRT 800 XRAY shifters, stx-rc hubs with mavic rims. | | Bottom Line: | never fails | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Guy
a Cross Country Rider
from Winnipeg, Canada
Date Reviewed: December 11, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt, pavement, up and down | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | 1000 | | Strengths: | Nice geometry, good components (for the time), STEEL frame! Aside from paint chips, no rust, dents or cracks in the frame. | | Weaknesses: | BB was replaced after a few months, all other components survived until a couple of years ago. | | Similar Products Used: | None. My first real bike since i became re-acquainted with cycling 12 years ago | | Bike Setup: | Replaced all a year ago. XT RD, SRAM and Deore mix. Still orginal for fork/headset/stem setup though. Misinformation told me I needed a 1" steerer, now it's been straightened out. I need a 1-1/8" So new fork next spring, stem and headset. | | Bottom Line: | If you can find this bike on Ebay or anywhere, buy t! You won't be disappointed. If for anything else, buy it for the frame and build from there. Mine still gives me miles of pleasure, and will for a few more years. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney
Date Reviewed: January 11, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | Top frame, Comfortable riding position, super responsive, cool purple colour, rocks!!! | | Weaknesses: | Centre pull brakes, seat clamp | | Similar Products Used: | Norco, Mongoose, Specialized, Giant, Titanium XC | | Bike Setup: | Stock apart from a new seat, slick tyres, and replaced centre pull brakes with V brakes (STX Shimano) | | Bottom Line: | This is one hell of a super responsive bike. I forgot how plush a ride these Chro mo bikes are. I usually ride about 15 Kms each way to work and back. My first ride aboard the aquila was one of pure delight. Super smooth is how best to describe the ride. My suggestion is buy, buy, buy!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DrewDawg
a Cross Country Rider
from Birmingham, MI, USA
Date Reviewed: October 6, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Tom Nell in Pontiac (no longer) | | Strengths: | Steel is Real, Low Price, Very Solid | | Weaknesses: | Heavy, Not as absorbant as Reynolds 883 | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Durango, Jamis Dragon | | Bike Setup: | Sun Rims with LX hubs, Selle Seat, Manitou Fork, | | Bottom Line: | It is a great value for the price. It is a perfect entry level mtn bike that can be taken to the limit. I finally rode it into the ground, Literally, with a near collision with an automobile.
I have always been a fan of steel, and this frame did not let me down, I rode it for 7 years without incident, until that one day last fall where I saw my life flash before my eyes. The stock components were very well matched with the bike, The only necessary update was a replacment Bottom Bracket after 6.5 years of use.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Connors
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere in the Canadian Rockies | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Georges on Whyte | | Strengths: | The frame is incredibly strong. I've pounded that bike through some intense situations and I just end up breaking the components. I am 6'1" and weigh 230 lbs. | | Weaknesses: | None for the price I paid. I lucked out years ago when I purchased this bike for only $550.00 You could NOT find something that strong for that price anymore in a shop. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi MX comp ETA Bomber Fork, Chris King head set(rasta), XT derailers, toe clips and shoes(specialized) | | Bottom Line: | When I bought this bike 7 years ago I thought I would ride it until I broke the frame. I never ended up breaking it and the bike still runs and looks like mint condition.
For whatever size you are and enjoy mountain biking and you want to find a good used frame... try to find a Aquila, or in Canada it is named the Tequila. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken Sanderson
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Off road American River | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Precision Bicycles | | Strengths: | The strength of this bike, and the reason so many people rave about it, is definitely the frameset. I originally bought it (New, 7 years ago) because I couldn't believe I could get a triple butted True Temper Cro-Mo bike for the cost, and I also was looking for a hard fork. It is strong and light. I have literally pounded this bike, and at 6'2" and 220 lbs I'm a big guy, and the bike has held up without complaint. Roads strewn with large river rocks, riding through rocky creeks, jumping, hammering curbs with the front wheel - I've seen any one of these things take a bike apart, even far more expensive bikes, but the Aquila takes it all in stride. The Aquila certainly lives up to it's name, which is why even after all these years I am now writing this review. For the price, I have never seen a better bike. | | Weaknesses: | Someone above mentioned Gary Fisher's philosphy was to start with a frame and wheelset that were good, and the rest would easily upgrade over time, and he really lived up to that philosophy on this bike. Many shortcuts were taken on the components to give you a good frameset and a decent wheelset for the price. I probably have over 3000 miles on it, and have replaced all the drive train parts except the cranks. The wheels are fairly inexpensive but have lasted with minimal maintenance. The Sugino cranks are clunky though adequate, though I should have had 180s instead of 175s on my extra large bike. The seat was always very cheap and uncomfortable, so I thankfully replaced it when it finally got bent on one particularly nasty endo. The geometry was obviously originally for a shock fork, so I have had to add a riser stem and riser bars. The khaki paint is really tough, though I have managed to take out a couple chips with some hard knocks. The toe-strap pedals I found ridiculously hard to ride with so I changed them out immediately. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Moto Ace High Rise stem, Specialised Special Rise bars, Redline DX style BMX pedals, Serfas ddvado seat, Continental Vertical tires, Blackburn frame mount pump, seasonal rear fender. | | Bottom Line: | If you are seriously into riding and want to come home with something you don't have to think about changing, then you will probably want to look into a higher priced performer. If, however, you ride seriously enough to need a bike with a lot of guts, and you don't mind making a few small changes over time to save some bucks, the Aquila simply won't let you down. If you see one used, snap it up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mathew
a
from Saginaw, MI, USA
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$340.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Village | | Strengths: | Rigid fork, aggressive aluminum handlebars, violet / purple color, designed in California, made in America, and this bike is quite. | | Weaknesses: | Old technology... Chromoly frame, Shimano STX components has my chain falling off at the front derailleur, hard grips, the Tioga Psycho tires lost big clumps of rubber the first couple of days, and I got a flat on the inner part of the tube where it should have been protect by the rim. The tubes were thin. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 820, Giant Yukon | | Bike Setup: | Chromoly frame, Shimano STX components has my chain falling off at the front derailleur, hard grips, hard Bontrager racing seat, the Tioga Psycho tires lost big clumps of rubber the first couple of days, and the thin Presta tubes that come with this bike got a flat on the inner part of the tube where it should have been protect by the rim. The bike continues to ghost shift even after I took it in for servicing. | | Bottom Line: | I should have gotten the Trek 3500, but my local Trek dealer would have had to order this bike. Instead I purchased this Gary Fisher Aquila on impulse, because it was the only bike with a rigid fork I could find in stock. The salesman told me this was a couple years old, and that it why it was on clearance. He said this bike wouldn’t last in the store another week. The bike is nine years old, and when I returned to have it serviced the next week the other same exact bike was marked down an additional hundred dollars. I learned my lesson to only buy from an authorized reseller found on the manufacturer’s website. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Conor
a Weekend Warrior
from Northern Ireland
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Tollymore forest | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | wiki-wiki-wheels.co.uk | | Strengths: | Strong, supple frame. Great geometry for all types of riding. Great for £525stg ($700ish) | | Weaknesses: | A bit too heavy. | | Bike Setup: | Deore/xt, Rockshox Judy sl, club roost dh bar/stem, mavic rims, continental survival tyres | | Bottom Line: | My first proper mtb bike, had it for 5 years now and has been great. Ideal for short, hard blasts, especially twisty single track. Most of the original components gave up within a year, but that was due to extreme abuse. Replaced Indy forks with Jud SLs last year, totally transformed the bike- even faster. Suits high front end for best handling (riser bar, stem spacers etc). It has to go now as I finally damaged the frame, slightly twisted the rear triangle. A bit too heavy (mine is 29.5lbs) for long distances/climbing. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe Kenny
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$440.00 | | Purchased At: | Start 2 Finish | | Strengths: | Indestructible | | Weaknesses: | Heavy | | Similar Products Used: | Various Treks | | Bike Setup: | Stock, aside from notes below | | Bottom Line: | Got this one for cheap at a goin-outta-biz sale. The Psyko tires washed all the time, so I dumped them for some Vittorias. Aside from that I've put ~6000 miles on it with no problems, including 500 miles through Ireland carrying around ~100 lbs. of crap. During that trip a 3-ft. piece of barbed wire got caught in the chain and front der'r, but after extracting the wire the thing needed no repairs. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roj
a Cross Country Rider
from UK!
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Lightstreet cycles Baltimore | | Strengths: | Top Frame, handles great downhill - especially with nice new wide riser bars. | | Weaknesses: | Original tyres were awful in serious mud, Handle bars too narrow for me. Freewheel bit the dust after 6 months. Wheels needed upgrading b'cos i'm a lardy bloke | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Moab,Scott,Specialized | | Bike Setup: | Standard Bike plus, X lite riser bars, new seat post & saddle, wheels Mavic 517 & LX hubs, wildgripper country tires (it rains alot here),shimano SPD pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I have hammered this bike for 4 years and it is still going. Mines black so i put electrical tape on the bits i thought would scratch up first. I am 6' 4" 17.5 stone and i stacked this bike head first into the ground - it survived easily even if i didn't. The original drive componentry & shock now need replacing so i have thought about changing bike - but to what??? - i want to stay with steel - maybe an Orange P7 from santa.
Personally this is bike is great for first timer off road and in lumpy bits - not so much fun for roadwork. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Norman, OK
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$620.00 | | Strengths: | Tuff Cro-mo frame takes it all and decent components makes it fairly light(lighter than some newer and more expensive bikes). Everything about it has held up just fine for the 6 years that I have owned it. It have totally mistreated this bike and it is still an excellent ride. Everything is original and it needs some love but it was worth every penny. | | Weaknesses: | After 6 years the only thing that has broken has been a pedal. Disappointed there is no Aquila around for 2001 I need a new one. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 850, Yamaha YZ and Honda CR dirtbikes. | | Bike Setup: | All factory original. | | Bottom Line: | I have ridden the crap out of this bike and it still looks great.It has some minor sctaches and rust but no sign of paint peeling or anything like that. This bike has been my best friend and will be with me for a long time. If I ever get a new one I still don't think I can part with it. To me this bike is still worth $500.00 and love it or not you have to know this bike kicks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Myslin
a Weekend Warrior
from Davis, CA USA
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | don't know | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | SF bay area | | Strengths: | Very light, acceleration that just about beats any bike around here. After all these miles, all components are still like new. Comfortable even for long pavement runs (I recently did a 47-mile run in under 3 hours). | | Weaknesses: | Old cantilevers brakes are not too good, but brakes are not that important to me--speed is. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Rebound, Gary Fisher Tassajara, Specialized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Full STX group except System 2 front hub, Matrix 60601 T6 Singletrack Pro wheels, STX Parallax rear hub, the handlebars, stem and bar ends are all System, and I changed the seat and tires. | | Bottom Line: | This is a 98 Aquila, and my paint job is still pristine, so I don't know what some of the other owners are talking about. Overall, this bike is worth every cent that I paid for it. Although it doesn't have shocks (who needs shocks in Davis CA, where the biggest hill is the highway overpass), it still gets me to where I want to go around town and when I go to the San Francisco bay area, it performs just like any ultra-expensive bike. This bike is ideal for people with less than a $1000 budget. Long live The Man, Gary Fisher! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from Seattle, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | John Muir | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Indestructible frame.
Frame geometry. | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost clamp, headset. Can't adjust handlebar height. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Sierra | | Bike Setup: | Continental slicks, clipon fenders, rear rack | | Bottom Line: | I rode this bike to work (about 20 miles) almost every day for 3 years. That use was mostly on pavement, but in Seattle pavement can be very bumpy stuff (cobblestones, etc.). Jumped sidewalks, rode down stairs, often in really wet weather. Never replaced a bearing, except the headset, 3 months ago (stock headset was not too good, protected by a leaky plastic seal). Components all held up. Even the stock seat was comfortable. Very strong frame. It got ripped off or I'd be on it for the next 10 years. My only complaint was that the seatpost clamp relied on a cheap piece of plastic that was deformed and broken after 3 months, and the plastic headset bearing seal leaked. I highly recommend this bike for city or hybrid users. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Geoff
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: October 3, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
Good solid reliable frame - hard to break it!
Handles well | | Weaknesses: |
components wore out qhick, but then it gets better with the upgrades!
rims wore out quick | | Similar Products Used: |
Various.
Now have K2 proflex 4000 | | Bike Setup: |
95 17.5 plus Indy XCs and thudbuster.
Most all components replaced with XT or equiv. | | Bottom Line: | Well good and solid. With the upgrades, I still keep it on as a good bike. I've beaten the bejeezuz out of it and the frames taken it all in its stride - Good product | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nic
a Weekend Warrior
from London, UK
Date Reviewed: October 1, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Solid, stiff, light, responsive ride. | | Weaknesses: |
A little heavy. | | Similar Products Used: |
Apex. | | Bike Setup: |
96 Aquila. No shocks. | | Bottom Line: | Damn good ride. I've not had any problems with the paint, etc... Maybe it was a bad batch? I'm about to fit a pair of Marzocchi Z.3 Lights. I'm looking forward to faster D/H! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David M.
a Weekend Warrior
from Frederick, MD.
Date Reviewed: July 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
blue trail, gambrill state park, MD. | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Good, solid feeling bike. The tires are great, though I turned them around for better climbing. Liked the handlebars and bar ends that came with the bike until I wiped out HARD and bent them up. | | Weaknesses: |
Front derailluer is a little hard to get used to and the front shocks are too soft. I replaced the seat pretty quick also. | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek 820. | | Bottom Line: | I bought the bike at the end of '98 and got tired of going over the handlebars pretty quickly. I put heftier springs in the shocks, got a shorter, steeper bar stem, and got used to getting my butt off the seat toward the rear which can be a little tuff with the original, too stiff seat. Overall, I LOVE this bike, and though I fantasize about a full suspension bike, I find it hard to imagine riding anything but my Aquila. If I could find a woman to love the way I love this bike...I'd be set! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Louis Vito
a Cross-Country Rider
from Plainfield,NJ
Date Reviewed: June 5, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Great Climber
Excellent Value for $$
Good Handling
Smooth Ride
Comfortable Cockpit | | Weaknesses: |
Components are on low end spectrum...
Weight | | Bike Setup: |
-Got rid of Tree hooks(uh...Bar ends)
-replaced crappy seat
Put on used XT stuff from other bikes..
Medium sized frame | | Bottom Line: | I got this bike in Jan of 1999. It was about 9 months old when I picked it up preowned for $200 bucks.Frame & paint job were in excellent condition & orig owner replaced the silly white tires originally spec'd on the bike. I've since made it my mission to lighten the thing whereever possible...along the way making a couple wrong purchases.I put in a Real Bottom Bracket.I put a Thompson Ti seatpost.Hyperlite handlebar.Control Tech stem.Bontrager Bezerkr seat(could've gone lighter here).XT pods w/brake levers...XT fr & rr Vbrakes. XT crankeset & chainrings(should've gone lighter here!). Next up to add will be a new fork, XTR wheelset & lighter Tyres and my monster will be complete. Right now I'm @ 27lbs and I'm frustrated trying to get it closer to 25lbs. Love this bike though. It climbs like a billygoat, handles well, looks great (Green color scheme)Orig DiaCompe brakes worked well but Shimano's were lighter & easier to adjust. Tree hooks were taken off immediately.Hubs on this bike age quickly. Overall I highly recommend this ride to anyone. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lance I.
a weekend warrior
from Arkansas
Date Reviewed: February 26, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Hey guys,To the guys who are posting and saying' My paint is peeling....wah wah..
Are you taking good care of this bike?
Make it a point to wash it everytime you ride. I do, I have a 98 Aquila,
I am not having any paint problems.
Look, take care of it and it will take care of you. Wash it everytime you
ride with a multi setting nozzle and garden hose. Then, immediately lube
it up. I use White Lightening and Pedros Syn Lube. Tri-flow is another
good lubricant. Be sure to dry it off before you apply any lube.Good Luck | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
WN
a weekend warrior
from AZ
Date Reviewed: February 10, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a update review. I posted many moons ago about the Aquila, I still believe that this bike is a solid investment. I purchased my in Nov of 95 and still ride it today. Most of the parts are replaced by now but I have well over 5000 miles on it. Although my newer bike is a Heckler, I still find the desire to ride my Aquila. There is nothing like a good steel hard tail to ride. To all who consider purchasing this bike, it is an entry level bike, however, novices like myself will still find it satisfying to ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Mejia
a cross-country rider
from Berkeley
Date Reviewed: January 26, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
My '95 (bought in 95 for $517, mostly LX) has weathered some awful conditions and is still under me. I've gone through and upgraded several sets of wheels, derailleurs, brakes, tires and etc. The only thing left of the original bike is the frame. Gary Fisher says that you need to find a frame and set of wheels you like in a new bike; the rest will change over time. This did the trick for me and the currrent versions are incredible values. The new designs have shown me how this bike has it's weight up high and leaves me streatched out; a little tough when your trying to get behind the seat on twisty singletrack. The new dual suspension bikes have shown me what a great climber this is.
Having taught me well Old Aquila will be turned into a Cyclocross. My problems with riding have never been with the bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jerry Stone
a weekend warrior
from Charlotte, NC
Date Reviewed: January 22, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Great mid-price bike. Very light, great components. Easy to ride and very dependable. I ride it very hard and haven't had any troubles yet. I would recommend it to anyone who plans to spend $300-$700 on a bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad
a cross-country rider
from Va Beach
Date Reviewed: December 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my 98 Aquila a couple of months ago, and have put it through it's paces. Overall, i'm pretty happy with it. Would like to see better shocks than the R. S. Indy, and the front derailler needs some work, but over all - no regrets. Great bike for the money. If you are a new biker, or if this fits your price range, go for it . | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colin Montgomery
a cross-country rider
from Austin, Tx
Date Reviewed: December 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a '98 Aquila which I regret buying. Brake and Fork performance are a joke and, as I have experienced, dangerous. The actual weight of the '98, with nothing but a cyclometer on it, is a hefty 28.5 pounds. The paint is even bubbly in places. The STX/RC components are too bad but are quick to need tuning. The only thing this bike would be good for is throwing on some slicks and hitting the streets. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gordon
a cross-country rider
from Kansas City
Date Reviewed: December 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought mine in '94. Full STX group and bontrager rims. Swapped the saddle and pedals out for a sella san marco and spd's right away. After riding in the middle east for two years bought a Girven Elite and a set of LX/Specialized wheels. Had to install a new headest with the fork and found some TI bar ends to go with it.Four years, two continents, 4000 miles and two Flinthill's Death Rides later I am still very happy with this bike. The frame is still a great responsive ride and it was the best $550 I spent that year. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Byron Ruiz
a racer
from Richmond CA
Date Reviewed: December 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is pretty good. It's a great handling bike but it comes with some weak shocks(Rock Shox T2) and some weak braking systems that have no brand. Other from that this is a great bike if you upgrade the shoxs and the braking systems. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
abba
a weekend warrior
from Wash. DC
Date Reviewed: October 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I had a 95 model for a couple of years. The frame felt great (just enough flex) and was very responsive. After that, it all goes downhill (pun indended).
The rims were a joke, I was constantly getting flats. Tried different tires, tubes, rim tape, etc., still regular flats. The grip shift was stiff and not at all precise. The other components needed almost daily adjustments and the brakes were scary weak. At the time I was a moderately hard rider mainly on wet, muddy trails. For fire roads it's OK, but for serious trail use, look elsewhere. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter
a cross-country rider
from Seattle, WA USA
Date Reviewed: October 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I actually have a 98 Marlin frame and components for my bike. BUT, since the frame is the same and the components basically the same, I can tell you one thing. I would not buy this model, for the price, because you are stuck with the Rock Shox for suspension. SAVE THE MONEY UP FRONT AND BUT THE MARLIN! I bought my Marlin, which has a great frame, and put Marzocchi Z3 Light suspension forks on it. Now, since the forks are realtively inexpensive, you have a bike that handles quite a bit better than the Aquila.If you add it up, buy the bike with rigid forks and upgrade to the suspension forks you really want, not just the stock Rock Shox. Which aren't near as nice as the Marzocchis. 4 Chillies for the FRAME and most of the components. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Mills
a cross-country rider
from Racine, WI. USA
Date Reviewed: October 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a 97 Aquila and have been riding it for about a year and have put it through its paces. I'm impressed with its performance and handling on single track trails. It was the best buy that I could find when looking for an inexpensive second back up bike. I would buy another Fisher in the future. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bob
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: October 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I found this bike to be a resilient bike, I was hiit by a car, ran into a tree, fell off a 20 foot clliff and all i have replaced is the rear rim. I have rode it through everthing there is and have found it to get me where I want to go in style and comfert. I trust this bike and urge anyone out there to give it a wirl. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik
a cross-country rider
from Netherlands
Date Reviewed: September 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Hi there, My wife ownes this bike for one year now, and I am taking care of this bike. One problem was: The brake performance sucks. The brake adjusting was not good because the rear standing fork on the right side was larger than the left side. So the wheel was not fixed well in the frame. My wife is getting a new frame now for FREE! Thnx Gary, but..... it is the new 99 bike TO, with Genesis Geometrie and blue instead of green colour and chromevanadium tubes. Gary, I am getting jealous, I have a 98 KaiTai, and my frame is good! What to do with it ;-)
Some people have already experiences with the new 99 Aquila?
5 chili´s for warranty, 1 chili for frame and brakes, 5 chili´s for my wife makes....
4 chili´s overall | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a cross-country rider
from Baltimore
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride every thing from city streets to fire roads
the bike is worth the money
it looks great I ride to work in the rain ( bianchi road bike or peugeot
the rest of the time ) my bike has no rust . i used frame saver when it was
new and i wax it now and then that is it .
I rode all winter in the trails with no real problems | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Oscar Rodriguez
a weekend warrior
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned an Aquila for two years now. I bought it after trying quite a few different bikes in all price ranges. This bike does everything well, handles well, and the geometry feels just right. Couldn't be beat by bikes costing much more. I've taken it out on hill climbs, desert runs everything. As long as you maintain it it won't let you down.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kevin
a cross-country rider
from marietta, Ga
Date Reviewed: September 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got this bike at the beginning of this year and just recently, I noticed the paint starting to come off. And whats worse, the expose part is rusted!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Me and Mr. Fisher need to sit down and talk about this................... Not even a year
and I have to start investing in a new frame. One chili for this bike | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Amy Stewart
a weekend warrior
from Grand Lake, CO
Date Reviewed: September 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike a week ago from a rental place. the crank was torn to shreds, shocks blown out, and brakes in pretty shabby shape. i guess i thought i was gettin a better deal than i really was at $400. guess i should have visited this site first. don't get me wrong, i'm sure it seems to be a great bike, almost all gary fisher's are, but tourists who have no idea how to ride a bike trashed it. my advise - hold out for the hoo koo e koo. tourists suck. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C.F
a cross-country rider
from N.Y
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This Bike eats up the trails. I just got it two dayes ago. For yhe price you pay. You get a great bike. If you like cross contry or single track. You'll
love this bike. The only thing that they could of made better is the front
deraillur. If you need anew bike I suggest this one. This bike eats huffy and
pukes murry
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ira
a cross-country rider
from New York
Date Reviewed: August 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the 98' Aquila in Febuary and have liked it ever since. Over the summer I did some downhilling as well as cross country with the bike and it handled fine. I did break off one of the bar ends and the breaks are so-so. But for a $500 bike it's a great deal. The front deraillur isn't great either. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom G.
a weekend warrior
from Erie, PA
Date Reviewed: July 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After I decided I needed a new rig, i narrowed it down to the Aquila, or similar models from Cannondale and Specialized. I found the FIsher to be the best in both value and ride. This bike has bumped up my riding ability quit a bit. I'm finnaly riding through all those parts of the trail i used to walk. The frame is great, and so are the components. (with a few execptions) The Dia-Comp brakes are great, and so are the rapid-fire shifters. The only weakness that ive found so far is the poor front derailler. This bike also has one very sweet color scheme going for it too. One last note, the primal-raptor tire got a flat on my first singletrack ride, but it could have had something to do with that glass on the trail =) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam Uyemura
a cross-country rider
from Gresham, OR
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Mine got stolen at my friends house at 4:00 am on The 4th of July. But before it got stolen I was very happy with it. Except for the Shimano A ( Alivio ) front shifter that move the chain, and the cheap piece of crap front Indy S rear shock that has a claimed 50mm of travel that really has about 2mm of travel, but I really didn't understand why I had an XTR crankset. I really whated a Shimano Altus crank. But otherwise I enjoyed the piece of crap for the two whole days I had it..... Adam Uyemura Gresham, OR | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike S
a weekend warrior
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Up to now I've strickry been a road cyclists, but decided to get a mountain bike to add a little spice and variety to my rides, and trail ride with my kids. I looked at a number of different brands, Trek, Raliegh, Giant, Mongoose, FIsher and others, but felt the Aquila had the best combination of components, ride and performance for the price ($470) . After a week of riding, including hauling my youngest up and down the C&O canal on his hitchhiker I haven't been disappointed. The Aquila is smooth and stable, even with my little guy lurching all over the place to test my riding ability I had no problems with bumps, rocks and keeping straight, and when he yelled to get into Hyperdrive and beat mommy we took off like a bat out of hell. The Aquila is a great value, one which can easily be upgraded over time. I would hihgly recommend it to to anyoner who wants an affordable bike they can grow with. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
AJ Scharff
a racer
from OR.
Date Reviewed: July 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my bmx bike from santiam bikes. I have a hard warp and it's the best bike I've owned. It's held up for jumps in racing and has hardly any frame flex. It's gone through Hell and back, and it still rides fine. I personaly recomend this bike to anyone in the market. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryan
a cross-country rider
from Oklahoma City
Date Reviewed: July 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my '97 Aquila last summer and have been having a blast on it ever since. I mostly ride technical single track and this bike handles exceptionally well. It is very light and climbs like a goat. This bike has held up well to continued abuse and all I have done is kept the chain clean. It is the best bike for the money out there. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mark
a weekend warrior
from Canada
Date Reviewed: July 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike rules! Nothing really too bad about it other than the front suspenshion should be upgraded. I give it five peppers because it is cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gina
a
from weekend warrior
Date Reviewed: July 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My husband and I both bought Tequilas in 96 and we just love our bikes. For beginners like ourselves they are good stable bikes that hold their own on hills and are a blast going down. I just upgraded to clipless pedals and I'm thinking of Indy shocks. My only complaint is that I fall down too many times for my liking. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jb
a cross-country rider
from penn, usa
Date Reviewed: June 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
bought my 98 aquila 3 months ago....this bike is great. can't get anything better for 500 bucks. frame is a bit portly but feels great...rather deal with the pounds than a stiff as hell vibrating aluminum. always room to upgrade, the shock kinda sucks but if its its your first suspention rig its a great improvement....can always by a new shock, very stiff drivetrain for the feel of steel, handles greaaaaattt! most bang for the buck.....green paint job and whte tires are handsome and stand out...better fork a wise upgrade, tires wear a bit fast though, greeeaat climber...nimble...great decender too. great buy, gary makes high quality b******' bikes | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Medwid
a cross-country rider
from Buffalo, New York
Date Reviewed: June 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike almost 3 months ago and have literally wrecked it since then. Through all of the wipe outs and crashes the bike has held up perfectly with no parts failures. Rock Shox are pretty good. I would recommend this bike to a semi-serious mountain biker who wants a durable, quick bike that is relatively cheap (I paid $599), and is almost indestructible | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lyle Augusto
a racer
from Northfield, MA USA
Date Reviewed: June 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I like the bike because the components are good. I upgraded it with a Rockshock Indy X\c. It needed it. If I were to compare it to my last bike(Giant awesome), it rocks; better frame, v brakes, and a size to fit me. I went from last place racing the Giant to third on the fisher. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Garzoli
a weekend warrior
from Lakeport, CA
Date Reviewed: June 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I shopped for two months for a MTB and finally decided on the Aquila. Problem 1: Nobody had one. My local bike dealer ordered me one after I paid her only to be told by fisher that they 150 more orders than they had bikes. I was able to find my size in the ugly ass green, but I wanted Black. several weeks and more phone calls than i can remember I finally found one in Santa Rosa. (Thanks to Daves Bike Sport) I fianlly got the bike and only paid $499.00!!!!! I find the aquila to be the best buy for the money......it has good components and is quality throughout. Its the only bike I could find with rapid Fires, front shocks, v brakes and BAR ENDS! I would reccommend this bike to anyone! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Julia
a downhiller
from scottsdale AZ
Date Reviewed: May 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I don't ride as much as I would like to but the aquila has been a great bike for me.I love the handling.I wanted to change the frame, because it does not fit right. It is a good beginer bike, but if you are a great rider than I think that you should upgrade your bike. But I have done good on it for a beginner. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Danger
a weekend warrior
from Manitoba Canada
Date Reviewed: May 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After getting my old bike stolen from my shed last year (it was recovered
vandalized beyond repair) I decided it was time to sell my motorcyle and
purchase a new bike. After looking around and testing several bikes, and
of course checking out MTB Review, I decided on the Gary Fisher Tequila (or
Aquila to you Yankees). Stream n' Wood in Brandon MB gave me a great deal
($800 Canadian bucks)and the service there is great. THanx. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Hodder
a cross-country rider
from Pittsburgh, PA
Date Reviewed: May 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just recently bought the '98 aquila. It's my first serious mountain bike so I really can't say anything about it that would be of any use to the experienced physco riders. I can say that it is a good bike for beginners who don't have tons of money to blow on an aluminum bike like me. basically it's cool. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an entry level bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jared Carter
a weekend warrior
from Louisville, KY
Date Reviewed: May 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought my '98 Aquila today and it rocks! I got it in black and it really looks slick... the bike is perfect for a beginner like myself because it has good enough components to get you broken in, and a great Fisher frame that you can upgrade as you need the better stuff. The bike is light, shifting is quick and reliable, the frame is sturdy (and I am 6'3 and 240 lbs), and the price is right... i got mine for $500 + tax, if you barter your LBS should do the same. All in all a great bike, I couldn't ask for anything more. Gary rocks! I'd give it 6 chillies if I could. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a weekend warrior
from SLC, UT
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I read all of these reviews...and I'm getting tired. Anyway, after looking at trek, gt, and db I chose the GF aquila. I am way happy. The snowpack is a little heavy still, but I've been trying to test it often. I am thinking about going clipless, but i don't race. I haven't had derailleur probs yet, but I don't expect perfection for $530. I went with a large frame because I liked the feel--the geometry is great: it climbs like a monkey in a banana tree. Great for my skill level and upgradeable. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick
a weekend warrior
from Tulsa
Date Reviewed: May 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I am an entry level rider and wanted to get a couple of bikes for my wife and I, but didn't want a cheap $200 bike. After much research I found the 98 Aquila gave me the most bang for the buck. It has been awesome. The bike handles very well, though I think an upgrade to the toe clips is a must right off the bat. I put standard tires on my wife's green one and left the white Primal Raptors on mine. For $550 or so, you cannot go wrong. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ronnie
a weekend warrior
from New York City
Date Reviewed: May 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My first real bike, It is awesome. I like the feel of the bike as I ride. It feels very strong and stable. The price was not too bad either. It cane with front suspension and nice bar ends at no extra cost. It is an excellent choice for the beginning rider. I am glad I chose a Gary Fisher. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a racer
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased the Aquila 2 years ago. It is an excellent bike with with excellent handling. I feel that the Aquila is more than an entry level bike because I do not consider myself an entry level rider. I even race on the Aquila occassionally. I have just purchased a Gary Fisher Ziggurat last week which is also great but pricey. The Aquila I have loses its true to quikly and the STX front derraileur is not very smooth. I have upgraded the fork on my Aquila to an Manitou SxTi, mavic wheels, V-Brakes, and clipless pedals. Overall for the price I payed for the aquila you cannot compare it with other bikes. I give it five hot, flaming chillies. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Fuller
a weekend warrior
from Des Moines, Iowa
Date Reviewed: May 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Well, I've spent a week looking at various bikes in the same price range as the Aquila and I feel that I got the best buy in this range. I picked up a black 98 with the standard for for $529 at Barr Bicycle in Des Moines. I looked at the Trek 930, Diamondback, and Specialized and nothing really came together like the GF. I like the rapid fire shifters much better than the grip shift personally. This is my first mountain bike after racing for a couple of years and then getting out of the sport for a while. I'm sure that this is gonna be a bike I can enjoy for quite a while to come. If I had to change one thing, it would be to go to standard tires instead of the white Primal Raptors that are on it now, but the white tires help to make the bike stand out a bit too :) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lance Infield
a weekend warrior
from Fort Smith,Arkansas
Date Reviewed: May 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The best bike for the price, and in '98, you get more bike for a lower price. The '98 model comes with a front shock, and it retails less than the '97 model.
The ultimate beginner bike. Gary is the Man!! Thanks to Flyin' Bryan @ Bicycles Etc. in Fort Smith, AR for the SWEET deal!!! Fisher for Prez!!! Level Betty for first Lady!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ovede Mecredi
a weekend warrior
from Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: April 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike a couple of days ago and it is sweet! I paid around $950 after taxes(canadian) and I couldn't be happier. Just look at the colours, its pure style! Front derailleur could be better, but the rest is great for the damage I put on it with my 740 pound posture(just kidding - 135). The indy sw shocks work well for my weight, and didn't cost alot. BUY ONE!!!! Thanks to Steve and Don at the Old Ski House for the Sweet Deal!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Kahl
a cross-country rider
from Hunt Valley, MD 21030
Date Reviewed: April 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned my Aquila since 1995 and while each year newer, lighter, better bikes continue to come out, my trusty Aquila has never let me down. I have added a '97 Judy XC and cheap suspension seatpost (Gianni) for comfort, swapped out the stock saddle and gone clipless (Ritchie). While I do feel the weight penalty of the bike, I love the steel frame and the geometry seems to suit me well. The basic STX component group (I can't quite bring myself to call it a grouppo) continues to perform well with only regular maintenance. I also have a Cannondale I got on the cheap in great shape, but I still prefer my steel steed from Gary Fisher. It just works! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a weekend warrior
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: March 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I did a LOT of shopping for my first moutain bike. (I've been on a road racer for 10 years.) After comparing cost, componentry, and ride quality, I chose the AQUILA in 1995. I immediately loved the bike! That summer I put 20-30 miles a day on the bike (It's nice to be a school teacher). However, some @#$hole stole it the summer of '96. I was just starting to really break it in. (By the way I didn't have a SINGLE problem with the componentry. If you do, find a better bike shop.) I was lucky enough to buy a '96 model on close-out (under $500) and I have had to become reaquainted with it all over again. Unfortunately, Fisher downgraded some of the componentry (Gripshift 600's to 400's), but I look forward to adding on. For '98 Fisher has respec'd the whole bike. I wish I could have waited (now it's even a BETTER buy). This is truly the BEST bike in its price range! I am a Gary Fisher fan.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
maggie thompson
a cross-country rider
from gainesville FL
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just got my aquila today and WOOOOOOOO HAAAAAAAAAA does it ever kick some ass!! Its a great bike for the money that you fork out. I highly recomend it to beginners like myself. This page wont let me post my review unless its over fifty words so i'll tell you about what i did on my Bike today. well first of all, my grandfather bought it for me then i had to wait forever to get it because the store was swamped and i wanted different tires than the standard ones. Once i finally got it i rode aroud town and gloated about how spiffy it was to everyone i know.Happy riding!!!!Maggie | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee
a cross-country rider
from gainesville
Date Reviewed: February 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike after looking at 30 different manufacturers. This offered more bike for the money by far. I've been riding it for 4 months now and I love it. It handles well, is responsive, and is extremely comfortable. (I have an XS ,so this is a big deal). I've been quite pleased with the bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob Tripp
a cross-country rider
from Norfolk,VA
Date Reviewed: February 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
If you are looking for a great first mountain bike that will grow with your ability, the Aquila is the bike for you. I bought mine in 94 and it is still going strong today. It's a bit on the heavy side, but what the heck this bike can hang with others much lighter and way more expensive. The Aquila is a capable climber, fast downhill with the right fork and easy on the wallet. Have fun. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
WN
a weekend warrior
from Az
Date Reviewed: February 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
******* Anyone thinking of buying this bike read this review *************
Other people are posting false reveiws here to skew the over all rate of this bike. I bought my bike in Nov of 95 and still enjoy riding it. However, with anything mechanical there are going to be bad experences. My prob was the junkie Grip Shifts. Neither the bike shop or I could get them to work well, so I switched them for some xt pods. Now I am not crying about how this didn't live up to my expectations or the paint was bad or it fell over and now is dented. The bottom line is that this bike rocks and if you enjoy it for what it has to offer, you will not be disappointed. Ride Till You Puke! WN | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Budde
a racer
from Grand Rapids, MI
Date Reviewed: January 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
As of right now I have a Gary Big Sur. I am always looking for good deals on components so it would be much apreciated if you would send me catalogs, stickers, anything that has do do with mountain bikes. I love my fisher, The color and components make it bad ass, I cant wait for the spring and summer so I can ride every day!!
thankyou very much
David Budde
2067 EastGate S.E.
Grand Rapids, MI
49506
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Naveen Savarirayan
a cross-country rider
from Arizona
Date Reviewed: January 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
First of all I have been reading many of the reviews already given and I think they are lame. People are complaining that certain components of the bike are not up to par. Well if you compare them to XT components you would be right. But since you payed less than 600 dollars for the bike you shouldn't complain. And to anyone concerned about scratching or denting your bike, you shouldn't call yourself a mountain biker. I ride in harsh, rocky Arizona conditions and this bike works great. And for a entry level person this bike is the best!!! (you can always upgrade) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Denney
a weekend warrior
from Daytona beach, fl
Date Reviewed: January 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had the Aquila for about a week. I am an entry level rider. For the money I hve found nothing better. There are a few thing I will change right away, pedals and a new fork, other than that I have no complaints. I am concerned about the chronic paint problem, I will take every measure to prevent the frame from coroding. Over all I love the bike and would recomend nothing less. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ross Otto
a cross-country rider
from MArin County, CA
Date Reviewed: January 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recieved this bike for christmas, and I love it! I picked it because there was no way I would trust my dad at a bike store. There were two options for the $500 that could be spent, the Trek 930 and the Fisher aquila. The fisher was a way better deal. I can't stand the Grip Shift on the 930, and the aquila has better components (STX/RC vs Alivio).The frame is strong and durable, but the fork really sucks (Indy S). There is a lot to upgrade (that's part of the fun in Mountain Biking). I am going to get LX V-brakes, an LX front derailler, and (in the future) a Manitou Spyder fork. One minor complaint-- when I washed by bike off after a ride, the fisher logo decal on the front started to come off. Let's just hope the paint doesn't come off...
I give it a 5, for excellent value. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Douglas
a weekend warrior
from Grantham, England
Date Reviewed: January 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a great bike and I won't hear anyone say any thing against it. I have though
put LX V brakes on it and I am wonering which shox to get. Any suggestions? The pedals
(on the 96model) have a plastic centre which I think is not acceptable! Are clipless
pedals worth it if I don't race? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John V. Bowman
a cross-country rider
from Detroit, Michigan
Date Reviewed: December 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my bike for 3 years now, and I cannot complain at all!!! I have never had a single problem. This bike was chosen over the GT Karakoram. It felt much more nimbler; yes, I settled for the STX vs. the LX. This is a GREAT beginner bike!! Also, I have upgraded it with LX V-brakes(Good!), a Manitou EFC fork(flexy,good dampening), Mavic 121s(a must!!), and clipless(yes! GOD). My bike is better in feel and control than my friends tricked out bikes. I am a solid (faster than most) rec rider, and at 200lbs. the frame hangs tough. I only wish I had bought the 17' frame instead of the 19'. Highland Park's D loop is very tight. I LOVE THIS BIKE. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
fisher
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike before the this season around this time. After I did a tun of research I was convinced that this was the best in its price range. after this season I still think that the frame is great with the fisher feal and in that price range triple butted! I will admet that the componets are kind of $#!ty but I stx is pretty bad. but hey there is alwaws up grading. If you are serious dump the toe clips and staps and go clippless. also the tt is ok untill it wears out. once it wears out no traction you probaly would get better traction going up a cliff caked in crap with road slicks! I could of killed myself with that shity thing under me. also the chain wears out easly and wears the casset making real bad skipping. I sattisfed other than the tt and chain. But its not like they cost an ton. so if your a beginer with limited cash go for it | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken Sechler
a cross-country rider
from Frederick, MD
Date Reviewed: December 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
For what it's worth I have a '95 model. I love it! I ride in VERY rocky terrain and have beat the living crap out of this bike. I have yet to suffer a mechanical failure or break a component(I've had it for a year and a half). The original Tioga tires did suck but for $20 ea I put on a set of panaracer smoke/dart. I regularly shame guys riding full suspension rigs, and plan to race next spring. I will definately buy another Fisher when I retire this one. For the money this bike is perfect! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dennis
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: December 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
rode a 930 trek swaped frames and all my upgrades to the aquila.I noticed a big change in the ride. 4 stars rating.I ride in hilly,wet conditions.V brakes part of my upgrades are a must in wet conditions. Ride is much stiffer than 930,but I don't have a lot of bikes to compare. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a downhiller
from Brooklyn,NY
Date Reviewed: December 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Hey Andrew!! spend a 150 bucks more and you'll get the hoo koo e koo. They both have the same frame and you'll get the Indy xc's icon clipless. I have to type 50 word minimum to get my review posted. So here it goes, I bought my hoo koo e koo 98 model in October, more details in the hoo koo e koo review.
The 4 stars are for the hkek | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
fb
a cross-country rider
from San Juan, Puerto Rico
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After comparing Trek, Fisher, Cannondale, Giant, and Raleigh bikes with a price range of $600 I purchased a 1998 Fisher Aquila. The Aquila had the best combination of frame, components and price FOR ME. I have been commuting to work M-F (19 mi. RTC) over cobbles and rough roads and riding 20-30 miles on the weekend and I am very impressed with the bike. The geometry fits me like a glove. Other than adjusting my derailleurs and brakes and regular cleaning and lubricating I have had no problems with my bike. The shifting is smooth and the brakes stop wet or dry. The rockshox fork performs well in my opinion. I had my LBS change the WTB primal raptors for Continental cross country tires. I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a solid entry level bike that can be upgraded. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andrew knight
a weekend warrior
from california
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Gary Fisher Aquilla is a verry attractive looking mountian bike but besides that it has verry nice features. Like new dia-comp 737 direct pull brakes. But it dose not really live up to my expectations, for one the shifters are who knows what kind. And the fork I think could be up graded a little by putting Rock Shock Indy XC, or SL. The crank couds be up graded to something a little better. And some other things could be up graded and then kick up the price a bit, sure the price would go up a little but I think it is worth it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis Wall
a weekend warrior
from West Caldwell, NJ
Date Reviewed: December 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my '96 Aquila in early '96. This way my first mountain bike afer riding road bikes for 20 years. After checking out the competition in the $500-$600 range, the Fisher won hands down. Added Shimano 747 clipless pedals right off. Just added a '97 Manitou SX fork and Double Fighter tires - WOW! Great starter bike that's taking upgrades nicely. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matthew Rotella
a weekend warrior
from Bridgewater, NJ
Date Reviewed: November 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm the ultimite weekend warrior.( eventhough I'm only 14 ) I bought my own real mountain bike w/ my own money, and I have to say it was the best 550 bucks I've ever spent. I have been mountain biking seriosly for three years. I really don't know what some of the other reviewers are thinking when they trash such an awesome bike. I think that it is a great ride with smooth shifting, responsive breaks, and an over all good first bike for reasonable money. Maybe the other reviewers don't know how to take care of their bike. The only problems that I've had was with poped tires, but the wildly rocky conditions I ride on are 90% of the ccause of poped tires in Bridgewater, NJ. I give the bike 5 chilis!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimmy Ball
a weekend warrior
from Kingsport, TN
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Alright, well.....the Aquila was my first real serious Mt. bike. I am a conversion from BMX and knew nothing about Mt. Bikes except that they resembled the old Cruisers we use to dog back in the eighties. After looking at several bikes including the sister Trek 930, I found the Fisher to be significantly lighter and easier to maneuver. I will have to say that I have blown out the front and back tires within the first 3 months of use. Bummer!!! I was greatly impressed with the componentry included on this bike for the price. I have increased my riding to 15 miles a day since I bought the Aquila. I would certainly recommend this bike to anyone who is looking for a great entry level bike and doesn't have a ton of money to spend on it. 4 chilis!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Harold Price
a weekend warrior
from Midland, VA
Date Reviewed: October 31, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Love the bike, but I had to swap-out the grip shifts for rapid fire shifters, the rear wheel spokes sheared at the rim (possibly due to my extraordinary manly strength in my legs countered by, at the time, approximately 250 pounds of butt maintaining the hold on the seat). Everything else is top quality for a guy that rides 60 - 100 miles per week on country roads and dirt tracks. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A. Agassi
a weekend warrior
from Las Vegas NV
Date Reviewed: October 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
So far I love my 98 Aquilla. I did get two flats on my second ride, but oh well!! Before I brought it home, I changed the seat to a cannondale, changed the tires to smoke/dart, and changes the handlebar stem to a slightly longer one. For under $550 it climbs, feels real good for me, is light enough, stops
as well as my 97 REI Arriba w/LX V-brakes, and changes gears fairly well. I do
probably need a front derailer adjustment already, back one performs better than the front so far. Overall 4 (and 1/2) out of 5 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Lacy
a cross-country rider
from Tallahassee Fl.
Date Reviewed: October 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Aqila since '96 and love it. The original componets are almost all gone now, wore them out quicker than I thought was the bad point. But the specs really seem to fit my body. This was a great first bike for beaten them on the trails of Tallahassee. Yeah the paint is all chipped off and it's lookin ragged but for under $500 you can't beat the price. I hate to say good bye to her but I gotta move on to a lighter, better component bike. It'll probably be another Fisher. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Manfred
a cross-country rider
from Oregon
Date Reviewed: October 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After buying I later found out I was cheated, for a bike that doesn't even have decent chains! Two months after I got it, the chain broke, my frames welds started to crack, paintwork ran (drippy/congealy look at the bottom of the top bar), decals started getting dog-eared. The handlebars got loose, very expensive to replace since I'm a kid. Don't ever buy a Fisher bike!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
G Thorn
a cross-country rider
from Leeds
Date Reviewed: September 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
ALthough I dried the bicycle everytime I rode it, rust started after about 18 months. The paintwork appears to be of low quality, as evidenced by peeling, flaking...I would not purchase another Gary Fisher bicycle. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rinnie
a cross-country rider
from Ga
Date Reviewed: September 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Good looking bike but thats about it!!! Though I only ride on weekends and I don't thrash my bike, the Aquila can't take it. Even when the derailleurs
are adjusted correctly, the gears arent smooth. Fortunately, I take care of
my bikes, so it's being traded in on a GT! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JS
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: September 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Same problem here. Have a 18-month old bike. Rusts like hell. Scratches because I don't use a stand but I place my bike on the ground not just drop or chuck it. My last Gary Fisher. In addition, cost me about S$1,000, about US700.SSiiigggghhhh!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimz
a
from SF, CA
Date Reviewed: September 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
World's worst bike. Paint started coming off my brand-new Aquila after 3 months. Toppled over from where I'd leaned it againts a tree and sustained a heart-breaking dent!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Woody
a cross-country rider
from Northern Virginia
Date Reviewed: September 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Aquila for almost 4 years now and I must say that I still like it. I've added a Girvin Expert and clipless pedals. The only thing I have had to replace after 4 years is the front tire. I ride about 3 to 4 times a week and this bike has never let me down. Its a great bike to start with and go crazy with the add ons later. It was inexpensive and hasn't cost me much over the years. Gary makes a nice bike. The frame is a great climber and is fairly manouverable. I can't say anything bad about this bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven Reel
a weekend warrior
from SanFrancisco
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just finished riding my 98 Aquila and can't say anything bad about it.
The 98 model now comes with a Rock Shox Indy S suspension fork
and Shimano Rapid Fire shifters. Two good upgrades with no upgrade
in price. I've only been riding this bike for one week (city streets and
Marin trails) however, it's long enough that I'm probably going to give
up my girlfriend and my road racing bike since I've super-glued myself
to the seat. For just over $500 it stops (Vbrakes), shifts (XTR), climbs
(light cromoly frame), and looks cool (greenish copper paint). Can't
comment on wheels and tires at this time. (5) chilles | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Philip Backes
a weekend warrior
from Monticello, MN
Date Reviewed: August 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought my Aquila about a week ago. I got it for $550 with some add ons. I think it is one sweet bike for the money! It climbs like a billy goat thats been eating only powerbars and coffee! There are just 2 things wrong with it. The spokes are too thin, and the paint is kind of thin and isn't really the best color(mine is the cream colored one). But still five chillies! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mitch
a weekend warrior
from atlanta
Date Reviewed: July 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
great bike for those of you who are not sure if you will really like riding - it comes stock with componetry that is solid in performance and takes all the upgrades you can throw at it once you get into the riding | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Syd temple
a cross-country rider
from northern sweden
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding my Aquila for a one month. I have owned numerous mountain bikes cro-mo, al, and ti. My last bike was Ibis Ti mojo which was stolen in northern sweden. I went shopping for cheaper bike to replace it before I returned to the states and a new ibis. I have been very impressed with the Aquila. The bike geometry is similiar to many high end bikes (head angles, wheel base, chainstay length). Its handling performance is all around is very good. It climbs well and descents decently, though short top tube and shortish wheel base make it slightly skitish at high speeds. I weigh 205 lbs and do not notice any significant proformance dampening frame flex. I even have put a bike seat on it and cruised on it with my 25 lb daughter on the back. Generally I think this bike is very good for the price. The only gripes I have with it are that the stock wheels are pretty bad. Poor spoke tension, they came out of true within the first six miles of the first ride (i finally gave up on the back wheel and built up a Mavic 217 with xt hub to replace the stock wheel). The front hub is pretty cheap and needed rebuilding within the first 50 miles. I would also like to see a slightly longer top tube length for better rider position. I would recommend this bike as a good first serious mountain bike, it is price competative and handles well. I give it four chiles for price and handling | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kris Coyne
a cross-country rider
from CS CO
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my aquila 3 years ago. Since then i have destroyed the original STX components and gone to full XT with a z2 Bomber up front. My point--this is a great bike to upgrade. It handles excellently from 5-25 MPH. Above 30 MPH it begains to lose stability due to its short chainstays. However these short chainstays enable it to climb like a mountain goat with a caffine buzz. This is a great bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Lannon
a cross-country rider
from Louisville, KY
Date Reviewed: July 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought the Aquila 2 months ago after a 4 year break from mtn.
biking. The value (~$550) was hard to pass up. So far I've really
enjoyed the bike. Aside from being very light for steel, its
suprisingly fast and nimble.
I'm a very heavy rider (220lbs), but the Aquila has yet to show
that it can't handle the load. Following is a list of plusses/minuses:plus:
* v-brakes, threadless, machined rims for under $600
* STX rear derailluer suprisingly problem free
* 24 gears for any terrainminuses:
* primal tires don't last long. Poor rear tire.
If you can find a panaracer smoke - get one.
they're the mother of rear tires (notice that
many newer tires are based on the smoke).
* Grip Shift is not too smooth. I'm switching
to old XT thumb shifters (at least for the rear
8 speeds).I'm an abusive rider and have already had to replace
the headset AND fork (replacing with a Marzocchi 700). In
spite of this, the bike has surely proven itself as an excellent
performer. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DERRICK GLASS
a weekend warrior
from QUEENS,N.Y.
Date Reviewed: July 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is tha bomb. For the money you can't get much better. I wasn't a biker before my boy Stan(what's up kid??!!)put me up on the art of riding these machines. But after much research and testing....the Gary Fisher Aquila blew the doors off of the comp in my opinion with it's parts+performance. The moment I rode my spanking new '97, I knew it was the joint!! I said later to all of the under $600 models(that was my budget..my orig budget was $400) that I tested...GT,Specialized,Trek,Mongoose,low-end Cannondale's. If you want a bike for a beginner, this is it. Quality parts,excellent performance,threadless headset for possible upgrade to shocks...what more would you ask for?? | | Overall Rating: |
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