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Submitted by
Spiegel
a Weekend Warrior
from Japan
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | 29er is fast on the gravel. | | Weaknesses: | Weight is about 14kg.
It is a little bit heavier than I expected.
| | Bottom Line: | I was searching for a new bike to replace my old 26inch MTB.
I liked the design of gary fisher,so I decided to get kaitai.
At first I was impressed by the smoothness on the uneven road,and then I felt some heaviness when I speeded up.
KAITAI was 1kg heavier than my previous one,so I'm going to
upgrade the parts to reduce the weight.
Handling and suspension is very great,and it's fun to ride. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
efont10
a Cross Country Rider
from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$649.00 | | Purchased At: | Capitol Cycle | | Strengths: | Extremely versatile. Really comfortable on and off road. Fork has lockout to maintain efficiency on road. Disk brakes work extremely well. I get lots of complements on the looks too. | | Weaknesses: | NONE! Love this bike | | Similar Products Used: | POS Schwinn | | Bike Setup: | Added Cane Creek Thudbuster ST | | Bottom Line: | For the rough terrain of our busted Louisiana streets and daily riding, this bike kicks major butt. I have taken off road and I easily navigate steep climbs / descents. With the Thudbuster St. seat post and Suntour front fork, I am able to remain seated comfortably. I should also mention that it can take a spill and keep kicking. Overall this is a well made strong bike. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
lildog1290
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Tsali, NC | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$280.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Light Weight, Center Of Balance Low And Evenly Distributed, Easily Menuvered (Agile), Great Components | | Weaknesses: | Stock Pedals Are Horrible, Rear Derailer Hanger Easily Bent, A Small Ammount Of "Play" In Front Fork (as though shock stem does not seat tightly within frame head) | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale M400, Trek (Youth) MTB | | Bike Setup: | Stock + New Pedals, Lizard Skin Chain Gaurd And Brake Grips, Red Panracer MTB Tires, Specialized MTB Seat, Specialized Front Axle Quick Release Pin | | Bottom Line: | Only Had The Bike for 4 days, but love it already. Its lighter and more menuverable than my m400, and in the lowest 2 gears, I almost knocked myself of my bike ( there is that much power). Great bike! Buy It If Given The Chance! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Chester, VA, united states
Date Reviewed: June 11, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | pocahontas state park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | from ad on craigslis | | Strengths: | Smooth ride... NCX fork with hydraulic lockout is a nice touch just in case you wanna ride the road, 29 inch tires make a fast bike, makes a great 29er if you get a different fork and 29 inch tires :-) Also owns on trail and road... big cogs up front and a tiny cog in the rear makes it road capable. I clocked in a speed of 45 MPH using vulpine tires. | | Weaknesses: | Gary Fisher lied about tire clearance for the rear. Bought WTB Vulpine tires and had to buy a new front dérailleur because the back tires was rubbing up against the old dérailleur. I had to wait for weeks to try to get a new dérailleur. | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Cross Country 2.0 | | Bike Setup: | NCX fork, 29 inch vulpine tires, avid bb5 disc brakes, nexave front dérailleur, alivio rear dérailleur, SPD pedals | | Bottom Line: | Fast bike. Handles tough trails. Great components for the money, but Gary Fisher is a liar when it comes to rear tire clearance for this frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darren
a Cross Country Rider
from Bozeman, Montana, USA
Date Reviewed: March 17, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Cottonwood Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$675.00 | | Purchased At: | Outback Bikes, Atlanta, GA | | Strengths: | Durability, adaptability; a go anywhere, do anything, bring it on bike - I bought this snazzy orange bike brand new 10 years to ride the treacherous streets of downtown Atlanta. It then got packed into a box, shipped across the world and spent a year cruising the roads and trails of Melbourne, Australia. Now it lives out west and loves to rock up and down the big mountains of Montana. I ride it to work through the snow. I park it outside of bars and it gets me home, even when I sometimes forget where that is. | | Weaknesses: | Hard to point to many. Others on this board complain of low-grade components, but I haven't replaced a thing on this one, besides the seat that only lasted me 9 years. I got it tuned up and the brake pads replaced for the first time last year. | | Similar Products Used: | I've never had or needed another mountain bike. | | Bike Setup: | All stock original, minus a new seat, new grips, and new pedals. | | Bottom Line: | If you can find a Kai Tai for sale anywhere - buy it. You can't have mine, I'm keeping it forever. How can you not give 5 flamin' chilis for value rating when you buy a bike in 1998 and are still riding it hard in 2008? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andre angelle
a Cross Country Rider
from oakland
Date Reviewed: January 19, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | big trees | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | craigslist.org | | Strengths: | frame geometery, somewhat lightwieght, no flex in rear triangle | | Weaknesses: | stock parks were fairly weak but still functioning when I bought the bike used in '06. the bike is a 96/97 model I think, so 10 years on stock parts aint bad... | | Similar Products Used: | trek singletrack, specialized rockhopper, bianchi ocelot, nashbar custom build, raliegh M80 | | Bike Setup: | Full 06 deore mega9 build (cranks, derailers, v-brakes, shifter+levers(rapid fire), Cris King headset, 06 rock shox Dart 2, mavic crossland wheelset, SPD pedals, rear rack, fenders. | | Bottom Line: | I bought the bike for 120 and spent about 230 (thanks to craigslist.org) upradeing it. I wanted a "groecery getter"; but when I rode it home for the first time it screamed for abuse, so i gave it some and it loved anything I could through at it. I didn't love the 21 spd/gripshift set-up so I spurged and got all deore everything. I have a deore wheelset with slicks for on road and mavic crosland's for off road. Once upgraded I haven't looked back. both my road project and full suspension project have halted due to me being satisfied with this one bike. (that i bought as a grocery getter) It goes up and downhill really nicely which matters even more on road than off. There is no flex in the bike at all (there was a little in the headset and BB at first, but cris king fixed that); especialy when hard breaking on the rear brake, in a turn...most bikes fall over or something...this one stops. It's amazing how the geometery of a frame changes how well the brakes work (for v-brakes anyway). Gary knocked this frame out the park in my opinion. I think Gary knew Trek was gonna part this frame out with lower end stuff so he put something extra in it to make up for that. somehow he makes his frame so good that buying the bike and the parts necsarry aren't only cheaper than anything else on the higer end market, but better. The new KaiTai's are a little funny with 700c wheels and srsuntour shocks...but the classic KaiTai is definately a 5 flamer after upgrades, and I should mention that this bike so far is the only bike I have ever riden that I would give 5 flames to. I give 5 falmes for value too, but I just got a good deal personally. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Byers
a Weekend Warrior
from Alpharetta, GA
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Bull Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Loft in Burlington MA | | Strengths: | Geometry design provide nice menoverability. Great on climbing. | | Weaknesses: | Seat and peddles were junk | | Similar Products Used: | Older bike was a ridgit fork Trek 850 | | Bike Setup: | Bomber front shock with Ritchie head set. Added shimano clipless peddles. Also put on climbing bar extensions. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the money. Have had a lot of flat tires on it. More than my prior bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron
a Weekend Warrior
from WV
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | any WV trails | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Pathfinders | | Strengths: | durability | | Weaknesses: | pie pan | | Similar Products Used: | giant, gt, trek and diamondback | | Bike Setup: | standard setup-bar ends, toe clips...loaded when purchased as a demo in 1997, added trip computer and small gel seat | | Bottom Line: | this bike was sold to me as a "big boy" bike because i'm not the standard beanpole in spandex! i've seen the singletrack sights with this baby for over 6 years and still love her! performance is great. longevity of parts is great. acid tangerine (color) is fun to say. this bike takes the WV hills wild-n-wonderfully. my friends with more expensive bikes couldn't believe the features on this one! Would buy again without hesitation! She's lasted thru some bad spills. No cheap parts other than the "pie pan" on the back wheel. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR
Date Reviewed: March 7, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | steep 'uns | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Frame | | Weaknesses: | Stock grip shifters | | Similar Products Used: | Most others... | | Bike Setup: | Stock 7sp STX drivetrain & wheels
Old rapidfire shifters
V brakes
RST Mozo Pro Fork | | Bottom Line: | After 6 years of abuse, this bike is still great. Even with the old 7 speed drivetrain I go out and pass the $1500 new XT bikes on the trails. This is the best frame I've ever ridden. The geometry is amazing, and it begs to go up steep hills. And of course, it's MADE IN THE USA! I've thought about getting a new bike, but nothing has felt this good. If you'd rather brag about your shiny new superlight unobtanium parts, keep looking, but if you find one of these used and want to ride hard, buy it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Alexandria, VA
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | Stiff frame with great handling characteristics. | | Weaknesses: | Cheap, flexible components. | | Similar Products Used: | GT's, Cannondales, and Specialized. | | Bottom Line: | After upgrading to RaceFace Prodigy XC cranks with ISIS b.b., Thomsen Elite stem, profile bar ends, Velociraptor tires, and a new seat, the components match the frame's inherent stiffness and quality. Original components like; Seguino cranks, generic b.b., and AHeadset stem, were very flexible when you really beared down on the bike for a climb or while accelerating. It had cheap, plastic pedals too which broke under hard riding and were not servicable. Now the bike climbs well, downhills well, and handles all kinds of xc terrain very well, it is also extremely light and fast. The geometry is great and I'm more comfortable getting this bike airborne than others I've owned. I've had this bike for about 6 years and think it's the perfect bike to upgrade. I'll soon put Shimano V brakes, Thomsen seat post, new RokShox, and Easton bars on it-it should be really stiff then. The paintjob is intact (with numerous scratches of course) and of a high quality, but the seat post creaks unrelentingly (even after lube). All in all this is an outstanding bike for the money and one that lends itself to upgrading as it'll hold up for a long time. It gets alot of attention when I'm in the various bike stores in my area and after reading some of the other reviews, I know why. My next bike will undoubtedly be another Fisher. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nikolai Tesla
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami, Florida, USA
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Any that makes me sweat | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike USA | | Strengths: | Believe it or not, I bought this bike brand new late 1997 and I'm still riding it in 2002 without a hitch! Light and love the burned orange color. Strong and no creeks to listen to. | | Weaknesses: | Shifters and shocks could use an upgrade as well as gears. | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | Classic-stock. Added Cateye computer and night lights (only time I have to ride is at night after work). Light weight and MALE friendly seat. | | Bottom Line: | If you find it used get it! This bike is worth every penny! I love this bike and it has helped me stay in shape! Thanks Gary for making GREAT bikes! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ali Peel
a Cross Country Rider
from London
Date Reviewed: June 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Nidder Dale, Yorkshire | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Estes Park, Colorado | | Strengths: | Awesome frame, great handling, solid down hill and very very light | | Weaknesses: | Components were not a strong point | | Similar Products Used: | Klien, Marin, Orange, Schwimm | | Bike Setup: | XT, upgraded rims, hubs and cranks - pretty much everything | | Bottom Line: | I bought the bike second hand from a hire shop when on holiday climbing in Colorado in 1998. Since then I have loved and loved my bike upgrading to an XT set up, switching to Time pedals, and upgrading the rims and hubs. All my mates with much more expensive bikes love it. I couldnt agree more with the reviews I have read, buy it, ride it and when you can afford it upgrade it. My forks are wearing now so I will upgrade those in the next couple of months. What a bargain £240 or $400 dollars and it still goes beautifully. Great starter bike, great long termer for upfgrade. Lovely frame. Thanks Gary | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Soc
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Coastal on Tam | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | River City Cycles | | Strengths: | Lightweight, Goes downhill real fast!! The perfect frame to upgrade. | | Weaknesses: | Cheap Ponents | | Similar Products Used: | Cdale, GT Specialized | | Bike Setup: | XTR vbrakes XTR Front and Back d-railers, XT Cranks and rings, Parralax hubs supporting Mavic SUP, Judy SLs | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike in 95 with all the sys 3 s**t on it. With an old school Rock Shox fork. Since then I go back to the shop every couple of years and ride new bikes. I have yet to ride anything I like as much. I wrecked in 96 and spent a couple of days in the hospital. I rode 6 miles home before my roomates took me to the er. I just couldnt leave my bike that is how much I love it!! When I got out all I had to do was wipe off the blood and it was ready to go. Also for all you folks buying a bike for its components dont be stupid. Find the frame thats right for you and upgrade. It is cheaper than getting the deluxe model they see that kind of sucker coming a mile away. Ride On. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jose'
a Weekend Warrior
from Mukilteo
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | ..then it wont be a secret! duh. | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$675.00 | | Strengths: | Great frame geometry. Light and strong...really responsive up and dwn hill. | | Weaknesses: | Bottom line components suck...especially the derailers. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded to xtr rear derailer, xt front der., race face crank, Kore stem and post, speedplay frog pedal...NOW WERE TALKN SOME SERIOUS WHIP ASS!! | | Bottom Line: | Cant go wrong with Fisher's frame genesis design but lags on high grade components.
Stock, I would give this bike 2 flames.
Now that Ive upgraded the components...5 whip ass flames! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jp a.
a Cross Country Rider
from beaconsfield, montreal quebec canda
Date Reviewed: September 30, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | trails? I do trials! wyngym . | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | montreal north bikes | | Strengths: | frame. | | Weaknesses: | cranks , everything else on the bike. | | Similar Products Used: | 7000 zx , trek y5 , zaskar , iguana se , jamis komodo , balfa minute man , norco team trials , bla bla bla | | Bike Setup: | xtr rear derailleur /xt front
alevio 8speed shifters, specialized sworks cranks , primo superdenderizer pedals , xt disc front hub , lx 8s rear , d521 rims , panaracer pyro / kenda kinetic tires
1999 judy xc aftermarket
profile boa 90 mm /40 deg stem
profile grips, axiom riser bar , brakes undecided ,
bla bla bla | | Bottom Line: | when I got this bike, it sucked.
now that I upgraded it , it rules .
this is the most amazing frame i've ever ridden. no joke.
it acelerates like a ferrari f50.
yet it's not painfully stiff.
it doesn't show any hints of brake flex.
the frames paint is weak , but who cares.
I've used it for over 3 1/2 years and it's still a amazingly
great ride.
typical gary fisher : crap parts , amazing frame.
genesis geometry rules. very comfy.
I'm giving this bike a crap value rating , but make no mistake , this bike is amazing .
I rate this bike 5 stars once you set it up your preference.
THIS BIKE RULES !!!!!
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
CHRIS HARRELSON
a
from AUSTIN TX
Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | ZILKER PARK | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | ABLE TO TAKE A BEATING AND STAY ON THE TRAIL | | Weaknesses: | SOME COMPONENTS ARE OF LESS QUALITY, BREAKS | | Similar Products Used: | DIMOND BACK RESPONSE SE, | | Bike Setup: | JUDY XC, DEORE/DEORE LX, MEGA CRANK, NO NAME V BREAK, BONTANGER RIMS, WTA RAPTOR TIRES | | Bottom Line: | THE BIKE EXCEEDS MY INTIAL EXPECTATIONS. CLIMBS WELL, CORRNERS WELL, GOES DOWN HILL FAST, WHAT ELSE COULD YOU ASK FOR | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt
a Cross Country Rider
from topsham
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Great first time trail bike the 2000 is better i have the 99. | | Weaknesses: | the front alivo derailer really is a piace of crap if it had a better derailur it would be a awsome bike. | | Bottom Line: | It is a great bike for a person who is starting out! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darla
a Cross-Country Rider
from Idaho
Date Reviewed: June 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Any and all | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Frame wheels even the no name brakes work well. Better than the dia-compes. | | Weaknesses: |
Crap crank, FD and shifters | | Similar Products Used: |
6500-7000
RHopper fs a1
Cannondale
Rocky mtn | | Bottom Line: | Good bike for the money. The 99 is better than the 98 I looked at last year. Very glad I waited. The fd and the crank should be upgraded but for 599 I couldn't pass it up. Rode better than any of the trek, spec, and cannondales I rode, the geometry is outstanding, climbs like a cat. I wish I had the money for the Rocky or the Klein. Oh, sort of a funny note I was test riding a 6500 and the crap Dia-compe brakes lost a bolt and the brake arm went into the wheel. Keep your eye out if you are looking at the 6500. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross-Country Rider
from Tampa, Fl
Date Reviewed: May 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Gator Bait, Morris Bridge Trail | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Bottom Line: | This is the first MTB I have ever owned. When I was initially looking around, I tried everything including cannondales, GT's, Konas, Specialized, Diamond Backs and many others. I am a 6'2 210lb person and of all the bike I tried, the Kai Tai is the only bike I felt comfortable riding. I considered going to a full suspension frame but fell in love with the response I have received from the hard tail going over logs, larges roots and other stuff like that. The only problem I have run into was my main bearing cartridge. But seeing to the fact that the guys over at Oliver Cycle and Sports warranted the part, I was riding twenty minutes after I brought it in. In short, this is a kick a*@ bike. One more thing... to those of you that did not already know, Gary Fisher is the founder of mountain biking... Everything else is just a copy! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave benson
a Cross-Country Rider
from fairbanks, ak
Date Reviewed: April 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
the muddy ones | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
quick turning, light, keeps on going through whatever you throw at it. | | Weaknesses: |
none that I see | | Similar Products Used: |
kona, trek, canondale, schwin, | | Bike Setup: |
stock bike | | Bottom Line: | This bike rides fine. I had my old bike stolen so I went out shopping to see what I could find... I had had a Gary Fisher bike before, but I wasnt gonna let my previous happiness sway me too much. I tried every decent bike in town.. and even a few out of town efore I decided. Once I tried the ride I was stuck on this one.. Gary fisher is the man. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mindtrap master
a cross-country rider
from walla walla
Date Reviewed: February 20, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
ive got a '96 kai tai and enjoy it very much. i picked it up for 500 with stx/alivio, and a rigid fork, have since upgraded to a z-s BAM, xt stuff, kore and nukeproof wheels, the frame is sound, goes where it is pointed, it loves the technical stuff and gives meconfidence while descending5 dead horses burning horses for this one | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
splub
a weekend warrior
from MI
Date Reviewed: December 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
For 675 this thing is a piece of crap. It is not that light, ALVIVO, crappy quadra 5 shocks. For the same amount you could get a cannondale and put indy C's or if you are lucky a z-2 97 for the same price with STX,not that great but better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Does it Matter?
a weekend warrior
from PA
Date Reviewed: November 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I can tell you that the Gary Fisher KaiTai is a peice of s**t. Its all bugdet and it rides like trash. Its a SEVEN speed rear with Alivo front derailuer. If you want a better bike for just a bit more $, go for the Giant ATX 860. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tanner
a cross-country rider
from NC
Date Reviewed: October 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
SUHWEET - is what the ride on my 1999 kaitai is. Trek might have bought fisher but gary still designs them himself and does a great job. Genesis geometry is a marked improvement. I bought the cheapest aluminum because I liked the color and the frame is the same as the high end models, just different type of aluminum, besides I'm not going to race so when my components brake, then I'll upgrade, until then they suite me great.
The bike handles well for me and reacts instantly. But remember every bike rides different. what isn't comfortable for some, is for others. You should never buy a bike until you have ridden it. The kaitai has downgraded the front derailleur and crank from last year. I expect the alivio to be the first to go. I don't see what all the fuss is with the new 9 speed. I didn't want it. With every other bike I couldn't downgrade to anything else, no lbs would do it. What a crock.
The new front shock does exceptionally well. I guess after last years manitous uprising, rok shox had to do a little better, and they did.
I have had many different bikes, none by the same manufacturer and I have to say that this bike is what I was looking for and rides unbelievably well.
I think most bikes are overrated and a lot are underrated for goofy reasons (why do people rate their bike low because they get flat tires, no sense) anyway because I got what I was looking for, I wanted the color, I wanted the ability to upgrade, I wanted the 8 speed, I wanted the great response and ride. So I give it five flamers. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Racine, the flying pig
a cross-country rider
from The frying pan
Date Reviewed: October 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Four months ago I purchased the kaitai and I can say that it is a great bike. But, I saw the new '99 kaitai and with a deal from the dealer, if there is such a thing, bought the '99 kaitai and it is a spectacular piece of metal. The genesis geometry really does feel, ride and perform better than the others. The The old fisher's rode great, but the new ones are even better. I was going to buy the paragon, but I wanted the color of the new kaitai, I'll upgrade later, for now I will ride my a$$ off! Gary Fisher has got it together. Unbelievable! Five Red Hot Flaming Pepperocinis'!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johnny P
a weekend warrior
from massachusetts
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my very first mtn bike and I just love it. This bike climbs like a cat and kicks some serious ass for the money. I did a ton of research before I bought, and believe me.... you're not gonna find more bike in this price range, I did however upgrade my shock, handlebars and front derailer, but the components the bike came with were more than enough to get me started... I'm sold on Fischer!!!! Can't wait to ride again!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
M Houck
a weekend warrior
from Oregon
Date Reviewed: October 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My first bike since 5th Grade (Soph. at OSU now) and I love it. I'd upgrade more parts...but I don't need to. Decent shocks, LX rear deraileur, STX rapidfires: for $620. All I've done is upgrade to Ritchie clipless and a coda suspension seatpost. (Gives my rear a break) And also handles the wet pavement on campus well. I cared enough about it to exactly replace almost every component (including handlebars and chain) when my dorm's security failed and the frame got stripped. Believe me, I cried. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
melanie
a cross-country rider
from acton-vale, quebec,canada
Date Reviewed: October 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm taking an instant to tell you all, that am more than just satisfied with my 98 KAITAI. my small orange little KAITAI has given me with wounderful memories all season. Bromont, Mont Tremblant, Mont Orford, and Saint Anne, I`ve been up, down, and everywhere around all these wounderful places, and countless others. My KAITAI has live up to all my expectations. I`ts light, reliable, and has that cool looking acid color. Clipless pedals, WTB saddle and VelociRaptor kelver tires are the only major upgrades that I`ve done. My old bike was a 97 Trek 850 and I can't possibly compare it to this GF. One thing for sure, I'll be keeping, and riding this fisher for the 99 season. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lane
a cross-country rider
from Durango, the world
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a new '96 Kai Tai, and was stoked for a while. It was my first decent mtn.bike, with a Mag 21 installed at the dealer. Shortly thereafter, the creaking started. Then it got worse, coming from the seat tube. Quiet, relaxing rides in the woods were just a memory. If you are experiencing this annoyance, turn the frame upside down and spray a good teflon lube up into the seat tube and let it sit for a while. This frame has a steel sleeve inside the aluminum seat tube that creaks like a *****. Lube between the tubes is the answer. Mine never creaked again, but I sold it because it was too small and steel frames are better anyway. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mr. Sooksatit Bulayalert
a cross-country rider
from Bangkok Thaialnd
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought Kaitai on August 31,98. I found that it was very easy to bike uphill. Compare to distance and energy you have spend up hill with the other bike (Giant) It was totally different. Kai Tai Faster and less energy. Break systems is in a very good condition and you can trust it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Etienne Chabot
a weekend warrior
from Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've bought a Kaitai '98 with a Manitou front shocks a couple of weeks ago. I really tried it last week end in Bromont and I found it's an amazing bike: well-balanced, easy to handle in both climbing and descending situation, lightweight, good Diacompe v-brakes and a wonderful LX rear derailleur.If you want a good-value-for-the-price-bike, you should try this one. Give it a rough ride , it'll love it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anders Sällman
a cross-country rider
from Stockholm, Sweden
Date Reviewed: August 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I´ve bought this bike just a couple of weeks ago (aug. -98). The last XL frame in Sweden(!!), and I´m very happy with it. Its aluminium frame and front shocks is a great mix and it handles very well in all situations. This bike will keep me going all winter (rain,sleet & snow). I wake up every morning looking forward to as much biking as possible during the day.
Buy it, Ride it, Love it !!
And take care of it, this bike really deserves it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric Nelson
a weekend warrior
from Misawa Air Base, Japan
Date Reviewed: July 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Sorry, not really a review here. I'm brand new to mountain biking and looking at getting a Kaitai as my first bike. Anyone know of a dealer that will ship to an APO (Overseas Armed Forces Post Office) address? Should be the same as shipping to a stateside address. Thanks for any help. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Hunter
a weekend warrior
from Houston, TX
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
For the price.. This bike is it. Have to admit though I haven't ridden bikes from many of the smaller companies. It is light, well-balanced, and fun to ride. If you throw a shock on it you are ready to roll. As Gary Fisher gets larger lets hope the quality doesn't diminish in the years to come. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Razztaz
a weekend warrior
from Harrisburg, PA
Date Reviewed: July 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had the bike 3 months, and it is great except for one minor detail. I have had three flat tires. While I do off road riding, I would not consider myself extremely hardcore when it comes to pushing the bike to its limits. I have heard of a couple other people also having an excessive number of flats on different Fisher models. Does anyone else have this problem? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christian
a weekend warrior
from Va Beach
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I did my homework before handing over the cash for this bike, and it is well worth it. I rode three schwinns (second fav, and up until now the only type I have ever owned), two GT's, and two Cannondales, and the Kai Tai came out on top. The bike just wants to scramble out from underneath you on every pedal stroke and ride off on its own. You don't ride this bike, it takes you for a ride! I upgraded the derailleur, brakes, and tires in the LBS ($25 total) and rode away on a real bargain for its class. So far it has taken some real punishment and bounced back missing only one of the adjustment caps off of the fork (I, on the other hand, banged myself up really well and hit hard enough to break my helmet) I can't find a fault in this thing's armor. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edward Shim
a weekend warrior
from Urbana, IL
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've got a '94 Kaiti, back in the days before Trek bought them out. The bike is simply awesome, although the front end has been redone (Bomber Z2, Kore Elite, Extreme Headset). Before the Bomber, the bike was nice and light and I just like how simple the bike looks no fancy paint job. It's a simple bike and the bike is still in one piece after all these years and I can still ride her against the best of them. I can't comment on the new Fishers, but if you can find a used one, it's worth the investment. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
wooly
a racer
from bunbury wa
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
love the bike but i paid $1000 and got $600 off so $1600 is retail and this is not 24 pounds it is way heavier the shocks are the best up grade on my old apollo i put SPuDs on it and it rocks but i dont like grip shift but i use it for xc and dh so it's pretty good | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dominic Lazzaretto
a cross-country rider
from Los Angeles, CA
Date Reviewed: June 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Great Bike for a great price!! I have the '97 model and have since become known locally as the climbinator. Coincidence? I think not. Great handling, light bike, with solid components (statistically mid to low end, but have held up nicely and performed perfectly for the past year of weekly mud rides). I threw on v-brakes and bar ends immediately and later added clipless pedals. Even with the additions, the cost is less than comparably performing bikes. Growing to appreciate GripShift. The only complaint is the RockShox suspension on the little devil. Had to trash that (put it on my brother's old Trek)and replaced it with a Manitou FS. Wife bought me the bike and haven't regretted it a single moment. Friends don't like me anymore 'cause I fly by them on their heavy machines both up and downhill. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
The Little General
a weekend warrior
from New York City
Date Reviewed: June 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What can I say? Beyond the rapid fire shifting and its manitou suspension, this is one great bike! And boy, can it climb! Though I am conquering Central Park with this awesome machine, I can't wait to take it to the Berkshires and really put it to the test - And I would consider doing so on any other bike. Any questions? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Maurice Divot
a weekend warrior
from nc
Date Reviewed: June 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought the 98 model about 6 weeks ago. I replaced my Performance with the Fisher. After my first 200 miles I've been pleased with the performance of my Kai Tai. My only concern was that initially my bike tended to ghost shift on its own. After a minor adjustment, this was corrected. Now at times I have trouble getting a smooth transition with the lower gears but I expect this to clear up once the cables stretch out and I make another adjustment. The bike is light, handles real well on a variety of terrains, and is a great climber. I expect to start upgrading soon starting with new tires. Overall I am pleased with the bike. A good value for the money ($565.00-including Richey clipless pedals at $75.00). Can't wait for my next ride! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kelly Bower
a weekend warrior
from Hollis, NH
Date Reviewed: June 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the '98 version of this bike on an impulse, after doing a moderate amount of research on mountain bikes in general. I have been nothing but satisfied ever since. It's very light and fast, and quick to manuver around trees (thank god.) Decent components - but I'm not quite sold on the brakes. Great overall value, and a superb first bike with a decent frame to build on. For what else was available at the same price, I'm giving it a 4 out of 5. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JeepMan
a cross-country rider
from BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike kicks!!!!!!!!!!It's light.FREAKIN LIGHT!!!!!And i've got the 97 model!!! I upgraded to rapidfires, put riser bars on.SPD. This bike KICKS!!!!
If you want a good, light frame, buy this. Then upgrade. A little lower end parts, but, hell, I wanna choose my own mountain mix to put on! BUY THIS BIKE. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Super Fly
a weekend warrior
from W. Bloomington, MN
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just bought the KaiTai, I LOVE IT!!!!! Threw on some Judy's and Shimano XT components. This is one tough bike for the buck. This bike is way lighter than any bike I tried in this price range, I feel, for my height and weight, it is perfectly balanced as if it were designed especially for myself. Giddy Up! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a weekend warrior
from Long Island, New York
Date Reviewed: May 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got it! After one ride, I fell in love with this bike. Tried a lot of bikes...Klein Pulse, Trek, Marin Nail Trail, Kona,Specialized Rockhopper...but this bike was loaded for the price (629 from LBS). Had the tires switched to VelociRaptors (for free). The bike shifts smoothly, accelerates with ease...very smooth and controlled handling with Manitou Spyder and new tires. If you are interested in buying a large (approx 19.5), you better act fast...most LBS are sold out, and Fisher's warehouse has completely sold out of 98 Large Kai Tais...guess word is getting around on this great bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rodney
a weekend warrior
from Muncie, Indiana USA
Date Reviewed: May 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Kaitai is a respectable ride for the money, well worthy of racing with a few upgrades. The Manitou Spyder fork works well (better than a stupid Indy), but the bushings need work.
Maybe it's because I'm used to harsh-ass Cannondales, but the frame feels flexy for aluminum. However, it makes for a comfortable ride with acceptable power loss.
The wheelset with A-SYM rear lacing is good too, because I weigh around 200lbs and enjoy smashing down trails
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
King Stud
a weekend warrior
from Oklahoma (but travel to ride)
Date Reviewed: May 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I am in LOVE! Ok, here is the story (I'll keep it short). This girl I was dating was wanting to spend quality time with me, so I took her to the shop to buy a bike. :) However I had been eyeing a specific ugly, metalic, copper-green HooKoo. Then that Bigger-and-better bug bit me when I went to the shop. And instead of buying a very nice steel, I got talked into a GREAT alluminum '98 Kai Tai. I mean who wants to look cheap in front of your girl?
Anyway, about the bike. When I bought it I requested them to swap Rapidfires for Grip Shifts. And I have also changed the back tire to a Bontrager SS Revolt for great traction. And now it is the perfect match for me and my riding! It fits AWESOM! And takes of in a single bound. The only problem I have is the front derallier skips when I pound hard (this may be due to my lacking knowledge of adjustment screws, but don't tell Christine) . So only 4 stars. I would recomend this bike to anyone. Moral = There is a reason Alluminum falls closer to the top of the line in the scale of all those bike makers adds.
P.S. She married me last month. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ash
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: April 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Fell in lurve with the bike immediately and growing fonder each day! Just love the geometry and ride is awesome. Changed the tyres to a Panaracer Mach SS/SK combi and the next items to go will be the BB and the Alivio stuff (once they're worn). For the price, 5 stars, anytime!
This bike ROCKS ..... it SCREAMS ...... it's a GARY FISHER!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Biking Llama
a downhiller
from Appleton, WI
Date Reviewed: April 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Man, this bike is mucho bang for the buck.
As noted below, the tires don't grip very well, and I found myself skidding and cursing down a hill at one point.
I really like the weight -- especially since I'm a small chick that has to carry the thing up 2 flights of stairs every day.
I'm partial to gripShifters, but am overall happy with the rapidFires...they do what they're supposed to do, and the components are nice for the price.
Handles like a charm....must be a Fisher. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JeepMan
a downhiller
from Northern BC Canada
Date Reviewed: April 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike and it is the best thing that I've come along. It's Nice and light, BEAUTIFUL COLOUR!!!!!!!!!!!!!, handles like a charm, it's strong.
Plus its a Gary Fisher HANDBUILT Bike(it's better than anything Phantom Rider would ever have). This bike is clearly one of the best bikes on the market for non-racing folks. Buy it, you'll love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trevor G.
a weekend warrior
from Naples, FL
Date Reviewed: March 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After a few speed bumps to start ( a flat on the first ride and a defective front hub) all is quite well with my '98 Kaitai. I love the handling and response that i get from the frame. This bike is my first Fisher and it is everthing and more that I ever expected. With a few upgrades- mainly the front derailer and tires- this bike will really rock! Now if I can only find some terrain in S. Florida that is worthy of this bike!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Blkdiamd
a cross-country rider
from Streetsboro, Ohio, USA
Date Reviewed: March 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I love this bike, overall the bike is light, stable, and predictable. Specificaly the Rapid Fire shifters are Flawless, the Deore LX out back is silky smooth, the Bontrager rims are light and strong. the price is outstanding for an Aluminum bike ( I managed to cut the MSRP by 50 bones on a brand new bike by buying from a larger dealer ). The only thing that keeps this from being a solid 5 are the tires. The Primalraptors just aren't up to running in the mud, upgrading to Velociraptors ( they cost the same as the Primalraptors ) solves that problem. I highly recomend this bike in spite of the weak tires. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Django
a cross-country rider
from Victoria,BC
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The best bike I,ve ridden in a long time. Some of the Alivo stuff I don't like; the rear hub/front derailler, but hey that's what upgrades are about. The other thing that I don't like is that it's a '98 bike with 7 speed system. I had the front shocks upgraded to Spyder R's which is well worth it takes .5 pound off of the front end. The rear LX derailler does its job quick. Just love the bike.. Flies anywhere where you want to take it. Frame is typical Fisher, PERFECT. I am IN LOVE!!!!!!!!!!
Eat dirt...... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sebastien brion
a cross-country rider
from new york
Date Reviewed: February 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
well, i'm new at this, but i gotta say that i haven't had any problems with it yet. It's light, it flies, and it's all you need if you're not a pro. You might want to up the shocks, but otherwise it's great! maybe upgrade the rest of the somewhat cheaper parts too...but oh well. Maybe when i get some money, and a clue on how to do it myself. But still, I picked it up for $525...what more could i ask for, seriously? So didn't set me back too much. Get it. That's all the help you need. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colonel Sanders
a weekend warrior
from KFC
Date Reviewed: February 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The 98 Kaitai is the cheapest (in $) that I have ever spent on a bike and it is by far the best gosh dern bike I have ever had! The ride on it is unbelievablly relaxed, yet tense and ready to respond for whatever is asked of it.
It has held up under great duress. One trail I frequently ride has 8ft. rock cliffs that I sail off of and no bent wheels, shocks, or bars. The new shock by manitou has far exceeded what I thought it could do. I am now stuck on manitou for performance and durability, I can't wait to try their higher end merchandise.
After about two weeks, I changed tires and put on a shorter stem. It comes with a 135mm length stem. I tried getting a shorter stem from about three different bike shops and they all said I shouldn't do it because it would affect the handling too much. So I put on a 110mm length stem and hell yes if affected the handling, made it much better, for my style of riding.
I do demand a lot from my bikes and the Kaitai has held up tremendously. The only negatives are 7 speed cassette and paint scratches easily. A friend of mine bought a litespeed and the other day we swapped bikes and his was light and all but it didn't handle as well as the kaitai. My bike climbed better than his (his costing three times as much moolah).
For anyone who says you have to spend more to enjoy more, poobah. I can upgrade baby, my frame is worth it. Five chili peppers are burning bright! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Buzzzzzzz
a weekend warrior
from The Hive
Date Reviewed: January 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Yeah, I went with a friend, who was buying a new bike, and I, like, saw this ugly orange fisher bike and thought, that good looking girl behind the counter might take me riding if I buy a bike. So I test rode this thing and it freakin rocked!
The ride was unbelievable, turned like a cornered badger, climbed like a kicked cat and kept me in the driver's seat. The components aren't great but the fork makes up for it and I can easily upgrade the transmission, when it starts to falter.
I have never ridden a fisher before, my clique I hang with all say fishers suck, well my friends don't know shiohla.
The bike shop let me ride it for a whole afternoon. I also rode a paragon, it rocked as well, but about all I would be paying for is components, whick I can do myself and a slightly altered frame, which really isn't that much different.
Yeah, this bike rocks! Mainly for feel of the ride, the aliveability of the frame.
The girl behind the counter told me to get real, so I went riding!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Archibald
a cross-country rider
from Crowe Towne
Date Reviewed: January 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Yo fellow Mountain Bikers and the phantom tricycle rider, I recently purchased the Kaitai and the ride is excellant for my size and it fits like a glove. I have been able to handle terrain that I hadn't been able to before, and I believe this bike is responsible.
I upgraded derailluers and shifters to Xtr. Put on an eight speed rear cassette. Brakes work awesome and I like them better than the more expensive ones. I plan to upgrade the shock when this one wears out, but for now it works pretty darn good. I realize it is the lower end of manitou but it rocks better than my past three rok shox. My main choices for this bike was the feel of the ride, the fit of the bike and the awesome color, orange rocks!
This will sound goofy but you need to switch the direction of the tires before riding on the trail. If you don't, the tires suk and you will be slipping and sliding everywhere, but once reversed they work awesome, through anything.
My next investment is going to be a nice black kore stem. (just opinion but I think polished aluminum stems look cheap) The components that come with the bike will get you started, I just wanted better. The ride, for me, is excellant after trying about nine other brands. Ride as many different brands as your selection of bike shops allows, some are drastically different, some are about the same.
The only thing I cannot stand about the bike is riding on pavement - I crave dirt, dry, muddy or gooey, my kaitai keeps getting me through it. I can get over anything, rocks, roots, small to medium sized animals, steps, stumps, average sized children, slow bikers in front of me, water, winnebagos and wabbabe winos! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nerez
a cross-country rider
from Perez
Date Reviewed: January 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The new katai is a good bike. A few upgrades will make it a great bike. The front manitou shock rides as nice as my old indy xc. I want to replace the front derailluer and tires. It comes with only a 7 speed rear cassette, but I don't race so I don't need those three extra gears.
Ride is excellant - Fisher does excellant designing. Best ride for money - and then some. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rabid Rabbit
a weekend warrior
from Hole in Ground
Date Reviewed: January 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased the 1998 Kaitai and am pleased with it so far. I was going to go with the new big sur but didn't have the moolah. The new genesis frame design isn't much of a difference from other fish bikes. Mainly hyped up. Kaitai has an awesome feeling frame and rides better than any other bike I have had. My lbs exchanged front, rear derailleur with xt for $10, and brakes with avid for $5. Much better. Great bike, with upgrades. Awesome color - acid tangerine - looks good. One must do - exchange tires at bike shop. DO NOT even ride those primal raptors out the door. Terrible tire. I nearly lost it on a freakin sidewalk, and wet roots, rocks-suk, suk, suk. Great Bike for me. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vik K.
a weekend warrior
from Columbia, MD
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is a winner. Component package and design beat hands down comparable models from Trek, Klein, Schwinn and Cannondale. Handling is nimble and responsive. Feels great on pavement, as well as trail. V brakes stop the bike dead, even when wet. Good quality components all around. The alum frame will deliver some jolts and jostles, but the Manitou fork absorbs most of it. For the rest, go lift some weights and make yourself stronger and stop whining. This bike is the best value going for less than $700. If you live in the Baltimore area, go see Brian and Andy at the Bikemobile Warehouse. This is an easy 5! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott tatum
a weekend warrior
from durham, north carolina
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a Mahi Mahi for my wife so that she would have something to occupy her while I played golf. Two days later I bought my Kai Tai and haven't touched my golf clubs in two weeks!! I have been trail riding several times and must admit that, through no fault of the bike, I am still a trail slug. However, I am improving each time out and cannot get enough time in the saddle. The Kai Tai accelerates like the proverbial bat out of hell but, due to the cantilever brakes stops like one too. V-brakes in my future. I switched to Conti Double Fighters for greater speed on the pavement but have yet to try them in the dirt. So far I have broken one spoke, one pedal and distorted one chain beyond recognition. Through it all the staff at The Clean Machine has been extremely helpful thereby reinforcing my decision to purchase the bike from a small, locally owned shop. I bought the Kai Tai after one lap around the parking lot. The frame feels alive and the stock componentry makes it a great value in this price range. I look forward to making upgrades as my ability and bank account grow. You may recognize me on the trails one day. I'll be the slow guy with the shit-eating grin thanks to my fantastic new toy!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ross A.
a cross-country rider
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
A good bike. The Kaitai has good entry level racing components, such as STX front and rear derailleurs, which have held up well, although I have replaced the rear with an XT. The Aluminum frame is light, and climbs and accelerates very well. All the bike really needs is a good suspension fork, and then you have a nice all-around bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
christopher
a downhiller
from nh/me
Date Reviewed: June 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
wow best yet? FOR SALE monty trials bike hydralic fat tyre new 1000 now 550 ridden once 1.603.964.5445days christopher | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nathan Brown
a cross-country rider
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: May 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Ive had my Kai Tai for about 2 years now and I love it. For the price range its in, I felt it was the most bike for the money, mostly because the frame is worthy of upgrades. I put on some Manitou Mach 5 SX forks, a Gorilla Proshift rear derailler, XT V-Brakes, and a SDG saddle. All I've got left are some cranks, 217's, and some SRAM 9.0's and I have what I think is the perfect bike for my riding style. I'm don't have alot of cash so I do alot of research before buying something. I made the right choice on this one!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chase
a racer
from Shelburne Falls, MA U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: March 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just recently purchased this bike(3-22-97) and I found it to be very light and it's a great ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
randall diebolt
a
from las vegas nevada
Date Reviewed: March 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
rode your kaitai and fell in lve with it had to upgrade to rock shock quad five to
give her a smoother ride but after that it was all up hill thanks for a superior
mountain bike after that i dont want to ride anthing else | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ryan
a
from AR
Date Reviewed: February 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been riding this bike over a year now, and I think I am now quite familiar with all of it's characteristics. The Kai Tai is a pretty light bike with well thought out geometry that makes it easy to control. It does real well on climbs. The aluminum frame is really stiff, so it can really beat you up on rocky downhills. But being 18 years old, I really don't mine the punishment. Its a good bike to work with upgrades too. I've put on some vbrakes and a new Indy fork (which takes away some of the punishment) so far. The STX components could be better, but for a price at 600 bucks this bike was a great buy. Trick out the Kai Tai with upgrades and you have a kick ass bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Maher
a cross-country rider
from Grand Haven, MI
Date Reviewed: January 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I am 15 years old, and I am proud to own this bike. It's a great bike for the price. I am kind of attracted to the alluminum frame bikes. This frame is excellent. It is the same Geometry as the higher priced MT Tam, and the SuperCaliber. And since I added my Rock Shox Indy XC, it has been a dream to ride. The only thing that is not that great about it is the lower priced STX components. I reccomend anyone who gets this bike, to set aside some money for some new Derailers, and maybe some better gripshift. Otherwise, a great bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jin Pyun
a cross-country rider
from Boston, Massachusetts
Date Reviewed: November 23, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is great for an avid rider withuot much cash. The bike comes with a raceable frame,
and if you're a careful shopper, you can upgrade over a period of time. So far, I've added XT
deurailleurs, Mach 5 sx forks, kevlar/titanium seat, lx brakes, control tech bar ends,
kevlar tires, 97 richey clipless pedals, and a control tech stem. The bike handles like a dream. And thanks to surfing the net for deals,
I've been able to upgrade for about an additional $600, making the bike worth $1200. You
may be able to find a bike for that money with these components if you're lucky, but this way,
I've customized it for my self. Also, I have some extra parts for emergencies. Therefore,
I highly recommend the Kai Tai if your just looking for a good, middle priced bike or
if you're looking for a great bike to upgrade. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jin Pyun
a cross-country rider
from Boston, Massachusetts
Date Reviewed: November 23, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is great for an avid rider withuot much cash. The bike comes with a raceable frame,
and if you're a careful shopper, you can upgrade over a period of time. So far, I've added XT
deurailleurs, Mach 5 sx forks, kevlar/titanium seat, lx brakes, control tech bar ends,
kevlar tires, 97 richey clipless pedals, and a control tech stem. The bike handles like a dream. And thanks to surfing the net for deals,
I've been able to upgrade for about an additional $600, making the bike worth $1200. You
may be able to find a bike for that money with these components if you're lucky, but this way,
I've customized it for my self. Also, I have some extra parts for emergencies. Therefore,
I highly recommend the Kai Tai if your just looking for a good, middle priced bike or
if you're looking for a great bike to upgrade. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay C.
a weekend warrior
from St. Paul, Minnesota
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The Kai Tai was definitely one of the most nimble bike I've tested. The frame geometry is the same as the higher end aluminum frames such as Mt. Tam and Paragon. I personally prefer steel over aluminum because aluminum is a bit on the fragile side. This really concerned me when I noticed a dent on the frame (chainstay) of the Kai Tai I tested. The lower end components can always be upgraded, especially the Psycho tires! What you're really paying for is the lightweight and well designed frames. Overall a good bike, but durability is another issue. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Duggan
a cross-country rider
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
When buying my bike it came down to a few final choices that were all in the same price range and component range as well.
The other contenders were the Fisher Big Sur and HooKooEkoo (dumb name for a bike) and the Trek equivalents of these two. The KaiTai won me over simply because of the responsive feel of the frame and
its ability to turn and climb on command. Mine main gripes with this bike is the lower end Shimano component groups, the shifting of gears has been my only problem so far with the bike. The main advantage of this bike is it is great frame to upgrade.
I have already added time clipless pedals on and will shortly be putting a Judy XC fork on. Once this fork is on and i play around with the shifters to get them back on track, I feel that this bike will be a terrific ride. So if you want a great frame for this sort of price range you would be well advised to look no further than the KaiTai,
it is responsive yet still pretty solid frame at a attractive price.
Andrew Duggan | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan Dorn
a cross-country rider
from Boise, ID
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The saga rolls on... Today (day 2), I tested (now six) bikes in the $450-$650
range to get an across-the board comparison. The terrain is the same as
yesterday, with drops, boulders, steep, sand, gravel, etc. Results:
This was my favorite bike today; too bad it's at the top of the price range.
Yesterday, testing the next price range up, I loved the explosive feel of the
Fisher Montare- this bike came the closest to it of any other I've tried.
It's a very similar, if not identical frame, and I suspect the Big Sur will
feel quite similar. The things just feel like the want to jump out from
underneath me when I crank down. I was very satisfied with the ability to
climb, drop and handle of this bike.
The components, of course, are not quite as nice or as smoothly operating as
those on the montare, but they are above average for bikes in this price class. I was very satisfied
Most of the time, I like CroMoly better than Al, but after testing twelve
bikes in two days, I'm becoming convinced that Fisher alone among the dealers
making bikes under $1000 can pull off an Al frame to my satisfaction. In fact,
there is a good chance I may ultimately choose this frame over the aquila/hookoo
cromoly.
Four stars- a good bet. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tommy Jacob
a cross-country rider
from Greensboro, NC
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I recenlty added a Girvin to my Fisher Kai Tai. For a while I was torn between the
Girv and the Manitou Mach 5. After a lashing from the local bike shop, I'm knee
deep in Girvage! (Whew!) Nothin like a recall to insure you made the right choice.
A fabulous addition to a fabulous FAT FRAME.
| | Overall Rating: |
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