Submitted by
climaxxdirtbikes
a Weekend Warrior
from Asheville, NC Date Reviewed: October 10, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
Liberty Bikes
Strengths:
Very agile, easy to handle, good components, fairly lightweight
Weaknesses:
front forks are slightly heavy, tires are not designed for high speed cornering when trails are slick
Bike Setup:
21"
Bottom Line:
Great bike!! First GF and I love it. I will be doing some minor upgrades in the near future, but I would definitely recommend this bike to my friends.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mcoleman82
a Weekend Warrior
from Levittown, PA Date Reviewed: September 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Core Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$649.00
Purchased At:
Bucks County Bikes
Strengths:
Good frame design, solid feel, descent price for a bike with full disc brakes. Light weight.
Weaknesses:
Seat is torture, lower end shimano parts, stem/handlebar styling not to appealing. Pedals leave something to be desired
Bike Setup:
Toe clips, Titec Hellbent stem and riser handlebars (ordered), trek computer
Bottom Line:
For $650 or less a great intermediate rider purchase. Leaves room for some personal upgrades. For more advanced riders you'll probably want to go a few models higher.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ty
a Weekend Warrior
from tucson, az Date Reviewed: September 18, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Handles extremely well, fork is completely adjustable. This is my second gary fisher wahoo, a 2008 disc. My brother still beats on my old 2005 wahoo. These frames and components have proven to be very tough.
Weaknesses:
The seat is pretty firm and has a contour that doesnt work for me, and the grips seem to slip on the bars. Grips are cheap, and saddles are not one size fits all.
Similar Products Used:
2005 Gary Fisher Wahoo
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock, does it matter?
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike at an extremely affordable price, if you are just looking to ride for the enjoyment of riding. This is a trail bike and performs great for its intended purpose. I have been riding for years, and am still young enough to get stupid sometimes, and I have never felt I've outgrown this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
snschuler
a Weekend Warrior
from Muncie, IN Date Reviewed: September 8, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
Kirk's Bikes, Muncie
Strengths:
Excellent frame, most of the components are top-notch, looks very sharp, nice handling
Weaknesses:
Forks are a bit "squishy", stock saddle is torture
Bike Setup:
Everything stock except for the pedals.
Bottom Line:
Took my new bike out for the first time on a fairly easy 11 mile trail. It handled well, but the saddle was murder on my nether regions after about 2 miles.
I had to adjust the forks about 5 times and never quite got it right. Guess that is expected first time out.
The frame feels really nice and the responsiveness was excellent. Shifters worked well and I had no problems.
The disc breaks were a definite improvement over my old Giant Iguana. I loved that bike, but this one kicked its butt. You get a lot of bang for your buck and the matte black paint job looks really sharp!!! I can't wait to get back on it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BMX4
a Weekend Warrior
from Richmond, VA, USA Date Reviewed: September 2, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$573.00
Strengths:
Price, for bikes with disc brakes
Weaknesses:
The pedals are too narrow for my big wide foot.
I had trouble keeping them on.
The derailer was not smooth.
The front fork was too soft.
Bottom Line:
It is good for the price, but I would change the pedals, and make the front fork more rigid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SDClyde
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: August 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Hodges
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
craigslist
Strengths:
Good component set for the money (except cranks). Disc brakes are great. Light enough. Looks great. Easy to work on.
Weaknesses:
Square drive cranks. Why are these even made anymore? If you actually ride the bike, they wear out.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn, Trek 4300, Fisher Paragon
Bike Setup:
Stock plus Shimano Deore 2 piece crankset with the outboard bearings.
Bottom Line:
I ride a Fisher Paragon 29er hardtail and love it. The rest of the family is getting into trail riding also, but I couldn't afford to spend $1800 on each bike. I found a Fisher Wahoo for $275 on Craigslist and my son loves it. He liked it so much that I looked for another one, and found it, for my daughter for $325. Geometry, weight, comfort, fit and rideability are all excellent. Just plan on replacing the cranks if you put a few hundred miles on it. I need a 3rd Wahoo to complete the Gary Fisher stable in my garage!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J-Dad
a Weekend Warrior
from Cincinnati, OH, USA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2009
The best mountain bike available for around $500-$600, period. I'm 35 and not the rider I was back in college but this bike exceeds my expectations and needs. Yes, you can and will upgrade components later on and the pedals are ridiculous but the Gold-Series frame with G2 tech is worth the price alone and the decent fork and disc brakes make the stock bike better than anything else I tried (other than other Fishers) under say $800. The G2 is not for everyone, definitely try it a few times before you buy, but if it works for you, this bike is a solid choice, hands down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
G
a Weekend Warrior
from columbus, oh, usa Date Reviewed: July 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Alum Creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$230.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Very durable and will be a good bike to play and beat on. Even after many crashes and bangs it is holding up great. It is worth every cent to get the disk braks.
Weaknesses:
Pedals are weak and had to be replaced after they shattered on my 2nd ride. Also the derailer is conected to the bike by a breakable titanium $12 piece that is meant to break so the derailer does not. Have an extra one with you when you go riding so you don't end up walking a long way home. A set of allen wrenches will also help a lot.
Bike Setup:
stock. Shimano everything. New pedals
Bottom Line:
The bike works great, shifts well and will be a good bike to take you where you need to go without paying insane amounts of money. Anything less than $500 is a good deal. This is a great bike for typical trails. If you plan on rideing all down hill in CO though I would take a look at some of Gary Fishers full suspension models.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
robroy911
a Weekend Warrior
from Memphis,TN Date Reviewed: May 8, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$599.00
Purchased At:
Outdoor Inc. (Memphi
Strengths:
Great looking, smooth ride and shifting, decent components.
Weaknesses:
None I can tell so far.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
All Stock
Bottom Line:
I hadn't ridden a bike in close to 20 years before test riding and purchasing this bike. A few weeks ago I went riding with a friend who had a dept. store mongoose. Halfway through the ride we swapped bikes. The differnce between the two was incredible. After our 5 mile trip (I only rode his for 1 mile of the trip) he felt like he had just run 5 miles, I felt like I had ridden a bike. I love this bike. Still trying to break the seat in though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
De La Rosa
a Weekend Warrior
from Gainesville, FL Date Reviewed: April 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
The Rock Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Gator Cycle
Strengths:
Amazing feel! I don't know if it's the geometry or what, but I have loved the feel and the position of this bike since I first rode it. Excudes a ton of confidence and fun in your ride. Climbs very easily! I have a notably easier time climbing than others. I never really have to clip out, even on the steepest of climbs. Feels great to wheelie. This bike taught me how to wheelie longer distances. Durability is amazing! I ride the bike fairly often and maintain it very little and it has had no real problems. Never had a flat in two years. (Don't ask me how). Still riding on the first tubes I put in. Eerie I know. Derailurs work. Front is slow, bnut honestly how often do you use the front anyway. Who cares if it takes a frection of a second more to shift?
Weaknesses:
Spun the left crank on the second week it was new. I don't know if that was the shop's fault or what, but it stripped the square cog it goes into. This are the worst handlebar grips on Earth. My right one stays on it fine, but the left one literally falls right off my bad and I have to roll it back on every session. I used the old motocross trick and safety wired it down and it didn't help. My seems a little weak after dropping it a few times, but I'm starting riding it and it does feels fine and stable. I've bottomed the front fork out a few times and eaten it. I don't know what I can do about that though, because everyone else is giving thes eforks a great review. Probably need to stop jumping it lol.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Boulder SE, Trek 820
Bike Setup:
'07 Wahoo Disc, SPD Pedals, Some Generic Left Crank the shop put there to replace the original that spun out.
Bottom Line:
This bike has really been a pleasure to ride since day one. If I buy another hardtail I'm going to stick to this genesis frame type from fisher. Seriously stunned. I've never had any problems with it. It's almost magical.
Would only recommend changing the grips and pedals.
Trying to decide whether changing the suspension is worth it, but I'm not too sure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
The Spork
a Weekend Warrior
from North York, ONtario Date Reviewed: October 22, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Strengths:
Good Frame and Good Geometry
Price
Decent Entry Level Components
Weaknesses:
The RS Dart 1 - it works but is really heavy
Front Derailleur
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Advance (Silver Series Frame)
Bike Setup:
New Manitou R7 Elite Fork
Bottom Line:
I love it so far. On the road, on the trail, up the hill or down I have no complaints.
If you are looking for a better than average entry level bike this is the one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ktse
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$630.00
Purchased At:
Skiis and Biikes
Strengths:
- Frame Geometry
- Good entry level components
- Light for rec. XC bike
Weaknesses:
- Bontrager saddle is fragile and weak
- The brakes leave much to be desired in power
- Handlebar grips fall off with the slightest gust of wind
Stock except for WTB saddle, BBG bashguard, and ceramic disc pads.
Bottom Line:
I use this bike primarily for trails, commuting, and occasional jumping (not recommended). I listed frame geo as strength as it's "unique" to Fisher bikes as their bikes generally have a longer top tube, shorter chain stays than the 'classic' modern XC geometries. What this means is that more weight is kept on the back wheel and this aids greatly in grip while climbing. On a side note, this geometry also makes this bike incredibly easy to wheelie on command.
Other strengths are components that come with the bike; they are introductory parts but have proven to be quite durable in the accidents I've found myself in. Only exception is the saddle and grips; it seems Bontrager makes the crappiest introductory parts when it comes to the cockpit. Their wheels, handlebars, stems, and seat posts are fine though.
Last mention is the disc brakes. These brakes are entry level Shimano fixed mechanicals and come on a lot of other bikes. They are weak sauce compared to entry level V brakes. They have good modulation and work well in the rain, but not enough power to lock the front wheel on command. Consider a better brakeset or a different set of pads for the discs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jcar21
a Weekend Warrior
from Erie Date Reviewed: September 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Asbury Woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Competitive Gear
Strengths:
I really like everything about the bike so far.
Weaknesses:
stock front derailleur and fork kinda suck
Similar Products Used:
my old hookoo n tassajara
Bike Setup:
when i ordered the bike i had time atac z pedals put on it and had deore front der. and shifters put on as well. the crank was changed to bontrager sport. really like the way it made the bike ride. over the winter i bought bontrager race x lite carbon flat bar and seatpost and a race lite stem. get kinda bored and all i do is work so i blew some dough on the weekend warrior. cant decide which fork im gonna put on over this winter but i have a few months:-)
Bottom Line:
Really like the bike,competitive gear is great and have sent several friends and family members there over the years. great bike and service
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SDMF'er
a Cross Country Rider
from Lararmie, WY, Date Reviewed: August 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Medicine Bow National Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
All Terrain Sports
Strengths:
Love the geometry, climbs well, handles down hill at speed well. Spent the last 3 months trying to break it and can't.
Weaknesses:
Tires, the bony jones xr's have blown out a couple times on me.
Bike Setup:
Swapped out the pedals for clipless, otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
Love the bike, taken it off of 2 meter drops and 3 meter gaps with no problems. I'm going to upgrade the tires to aid in climbing and avoid the blowouts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakland, Maryland Date Reviewed: July 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mt Nebo
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$509.00
Purchased At:
High Mountain Sports
Strengths:
The bike is easy to handle on some of the tougher trails that I've been on. Shifting gears is smooth and the brakes work well. For a new rider this is a good bike to start with.
Weaknesses:
Pedals are hard to keep your feet on at times.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I like the bike and would recommend it. It handles well both on and off road. The pedals will be traded for clip on pedals when I gain more competence.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
js_moore
a Weekend Warrior
from Grand Junction, CO, USA Date Reviewed: June 15, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$519.00
Purchased At:
Brown's Cycles
Strengths:
Overall build quality, beautiful geometry, brakes, Deore rear derailleur, very nice fork, easy to ride and feel competent on.
Weaknesses:
The pedals could be better, and the tires are a bit flat-prone for the terrain and flora out here (goathead central).
Bike Setup:
Stock so far, will change the pedals and tires this winter.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, honestly. Not a moment's trouble and it does everything I ask of it. Highly recommended for the weekend rider who doesn't need race gear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anthony
a Cross Country Rider
from Reading, PA, USA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Blue Marsh
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$490.00
Purchased At:
Wolverton's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Frame, Geometry, Price, Brakes, Fork
Weaknesses:
Tires (not horrible but too thin and tread doesn't dig enough for my taste), Pedals ( just need ones with clips)
Similar Products Used:
Other Fisher's, Giant, Cannondale
Bike Setup:
Stock except for new pedals, and Velociraptor tires
Bottom Line:
Great bike! I am 30 and have been riding a mountain bike since I was 14 (BMXer before that) and trust me this is a great bike. Don't listen to the other people who state that the components are crap, doesn't shift right, blah blah blah. I see people like that all the time on the trails all decked out in gear, in large groups, on their $1000+ bikes and I blow by them uphills, downhills, and on level grade. They don't know how to ride, and they need a bike that does everything for them. They don't realize it's their riding style, not the bike. If the bike won't shift right it's because you are putting too much pressure on the drivetrain when you shift. The Deore shifter works fine. Unless you are going to be a competitive racer you don't need to spend alot. Even then, a great rider on a decent bike will smoke a decent rider on a great bike any day of the week, catch my drift...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arthur
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego Date Reviewed: April 14, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$525.00
Purchased At:
Mikes Bikes
Strengths:
Everything, love the geometry!
Weaknesses:
Just a little bit iffy on turns.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hotrock, Giant, some kinda Marin
Bike Setup:
Stock except pedals
Bottom Line:
Love this bike, it handles a lot more than i thought a hardtail would. Everything has held together so far, with only a bit of adjusting in the front shifter. Definitely best hardtail Ive ever owned
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Cross Country Rider
from asheboro Date Reviewed: February 24, 2008
Favorite Trail:
owl's roost
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$549.00
Purchased At:
paceline bicycles
Strengths:
Great bike has held up to rough long rides. good seat. easy to slide of back on decents. Dart 1 fork is good. the aluminum pedals were good until i changed them for clipless to fit the riding and for the exterra i'm planning on doing this May. I liked the disc brakes. great price.
Weaknesses:
the shifters could have been better also the front derailer.
Similar Products Used:
first good mountain bike i have owned
Bike Setup:
stock except for crank brothers candy pedals. I hope to put some new hydraulic disc brakes and shifters
Bottom Line:
great bike for any wanting to get into mountain biking or wanting a new bike for a great price if you are looking for a cross country race bike you should probably go for a bike that is made for that
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christoph
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: December 29, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Evans Cycles, Deansgate, Manchester.
Strengths:
Nice frame, well built, beautiful welds! light, well specced for price.
Weaknesses:
Some cheaper componenrty used here and there, but this is a budget bike afterall, for £329UKP you can't get better in my opinion!
Seat is quite hard, though very light.
Bike Setup:
Stock setup save for CODA suspension seat post, and al reflectors, bell etc removed. various settings fettled to taste! and it goes without saying, some nice bright lights for the on road stretches!
Bottom Line:
I've had this bike for actually just a little under 3 months now, and I really love it! (2007 model) It looks fantastic, and performs well. A good climber, controlled easily during fast uneven descents, great Rockshox Dart1 fork soaks up just about everything! I've given it some real stick so far, and it's not complained once!
A very good entry level bike if you're looking to get back into offroad biking (like me), upgrade to taste if you feel like it, but there's not really much out of the box that needs changing to be honest, especially if you're a novice rider.
More experienced riders will still be at home on this bike, but you will find areas where you may want to upgrade. The only thing I want to swap currently is the pedals, the Wellgo alloy flats are ok, but dirt sealing for the bearings is not great and grip is so-so, however, that's a minor gripe that shouldn't reflect badly on the bike.
The only thing I've changed so far is I've fitted a CODA suspension seat post, but that's because I'm getting nesh in my old age ;)
Lots of good quality Shimano and Bontrager kit comes as part and parcel with the bike.
It's funny how one or two have rubbished this bike on here in their reviews, but most seem to love it, I can only say you really can't have ridden this bike if you gave it a really bad rating! if you actually have ridden this bike, it'd be nigh impossible to give it a bad review.
Superb bike, test ride one and love it! awesome value for money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
spencer
a Downhiller
from vermont usa Date Reviewed: October 27, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Strengths:
this bike is extremly well made has a great fork and the rock shocks saved my life when i underestemated a jump all in all it is a great bike
Weaknesses:
the pedals are crappy there is no grip my feet are always slipping off thats it
Bike Setup:
got new pedals
Bottom Line:
the bottom line is it is the best bike i ever rode ind i am a tough rider
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Fechter
a Weekend Warrior
from Glendale Date Reviewed: October 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
glendale
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Pasadena cyclery
Strengths:
light weight, awesome fork, sturdy frame
Weaknesses:
higher gears make a ruckus
Similar Products Used:
specialized rockhopper, trek 4300, iron horse warrior
Bike Setup:
stock except waterbottle holder.
Bottom Line:
this bike gnars the gnarnival. its like a gnarcotic for the gnar-b-q of sweetness. i got home, got it out of the car, and rode 14 miles with ease. and i havnt been on a bike in ages. not a problem with it and i was pushin that turd to the limit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: October 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Alpine shop
Strengths:
Very durable, comfortable and smooth operating.
Weaknesses:
Pedals broke within first few days.. no biggy. The shifting can sometimes be a bit sloppy during some of the higher gears.
Similar Products Used:
My sisters 01 schwinn... no where close to this
Bike Setup:
07 Gary Fisher Wahoo w/ v brakes, primo platform pedals, have my bb7's coming soon :)
Bottom Line:
Ive been riding this bike hard for about 5 months since I got it. Ive taken it on roads, trails and a bit of jumping. It has a very smooth feel when riding and is a ball to rip through the hills. It climbs very well and the fork has pretty much soaked up all of the rocks, roots and jumps that Ive done. As for the sloppy shifting, Im pretty sure it is due to the fact that I this bike new. After the 5 months ive been riding it I need to tighten everything up now that it has been broken in. All in all I have loved it and will enjoy it even more with my BB7s coming sooon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luke
a
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: September 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
fork and rear deraileur
Weaknesses:
everything else
Bike Setup:
the only thing i have changed on it is new pedals,
Bottom Line:
this is the junkiest bike ever! there isn't one part on that bike that doesnt break. it can't handle anything. period. you can get a bike that is WAYYY more durabil then that hunk of junk. the rims are so low class it can't handle anything it should be classified under road bike. because it couldn't handle any mountain/XC trail i took it on. the only good thing on it is the fork and rear deraileur. bottom line. DONT BUY THIS BIKE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DustyNTired
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbus, OH, USA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Trek Store
Strengths:
Light"ish", Climbing power, agility
Weaknesses:
can't tourque the lower three gears from the middle chain ring...chain pops off...replaced my pedals day one
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4500
Bike Setup:
Mainly Stock...took the rat trap pedals off my old Schwinn since that's what I'm used to.
Bottom Line:
For sub $500 you're not going to find a better deal. It's a great bike for someone who doesn't want to spend a lot of money. The 2007 componentry is above average (exc. fr. derailleur) and the mech. discs are so far and away above regular brakes. I LOVE this bike.
The 2007 model is significantly better spec'd out than the 2006 model.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott
a Weekend Warrior
from madison Date Reviewed: July 23, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$550.00
Strengths:
light, agile, solid, climbs good, descends good, like the geometry
Weaknesses:
front derailler doesnt work worth a damn though i knew that before i bought it, grips suck, pedals a little weak- things that can be changed easily
Similar Products Used:
gf opie- sold it as i ended up doing 90% xc and just ride my roadie in town
Bike Setup:
stock though not for long
Bottom Line:
i was looking at trek 6000 and cannondale f-5 but all 2007s in my size were gone. this was a little cheaper and components a little lower end but im very impressed with the shimano disks and rear derailler, front derailler will be replaced shortly, not really worth messing with. i felt just as good on this descending as i did on my opie but much lighter, climbs much better and geometry seems just as good for jumping though wont be doing a whole lot of that, probably not.... overall very impressed though i wish i could of got it a little cheaper, for 100 dollars more i couldve got the trek 6000 with bb7s and full deore, but will upgrade as i go. after first ride 4 flamin chillis! could change...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark T.
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO, USA Date Reviewed: July 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Castlewood State Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Trek Bicycle Store - St. Louis
Strengths:
Climbs great and rocks the downhill. Handles very well, much smoother than my old ride ('97 GT Agressor). Disc brake never fail. Smooth shifting.
Weaknesses:
Tires could be a bit more aggressive.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4300, Trek 6500, GT Agressor
Bike Setup:
2007 standard setup. Upgraded the saddle.
Bottom Line:
I generally ride XC 2-3 times a week and hit everything from fast, open single track to some pretty nasty rock and root back trails. I am very pleased with the performance of this bike so far. It's a hard bike to beat for the money. It's lightweight, fast, and solid. Of the bikes I reviewed and rode, this one had the best feel, ride, and value. So far, my Wahoo been a great bike and the service from the Trek Store has been first class!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Omaha, NE Date Reviewed: July 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Swanson
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$500.00
Strengths:
Everybody has a different body....I feel that this bike fit me very well. The shear strength of the frame is a good feel. The brakes stop you on a dime. Tires are non the less great with a smooth ride. Shocks have very good recoil, you don't feel the extremely hard bumps as you would on a Walmart bike. People who have the money spend it.
Weaknesses:
I haven't found any weaknesses yet.
Bottom Line:
This is a very good bike, I'm not sure why there are so many bad reviews on it. Maybe people haven't had it properly setup for them when they bought it????
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Stringer
a Weekend Warrior
from Midlothian, VA, USA Date Reviewed: March 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Powhite Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$647.00
Purchased At:
Agees on Midlothian Turnpike
Strengths:
Very lightweight, I bought the disk version of the Wahoo. I got a really good deal as it was last years model. I switched the seat for a different style.
Weaknesses:
none that i can tell yet. i am going to Powhite Part and trying it out soon. I have ridden it on streets and i love the ride so far.
Similar Products Used:
Schwin 21 speed
Bike Setup:
Frame Gold Series 6061 T6 internally and externally butted aluminum | Genesis Geometry
I am very happy with this bike. I got a very good deal with it being last years bike and I did a few upgrades and I am sure that as I grow as a rider, I will make more. I think that this is a good bike for the intermediate to beginner rider. If anyone is interested in more reviews, pleas go to my blog at http://renigade.blogspot.com and i will do another review after we hit a few trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Isaac Molin
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, Mn, USA Date Reviewed: March 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Hillside
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Ramsey Bicycle
Strengths:
The frame is great, it's light and solid. The genesis frame puts you in great position.
Weaknesses:
The brakes could be better and the chain broke at the end of the season. The components are entry level, so you get what you pay for.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4500
Bike Setup:
Will be getting Shimano M520 pedals and probably some nicer shifters and brake levers.
Bottom Line:
I'm crazy about the bike. It's fast and light, climbs like a goat, and it's going to be fun upgrading the componentry. If you are looking for an entry level racing bike this is a good bike to go with. I put a beating on it this summer with a lot of singletrack riding and a big trip in the fall and it held up just fine. My next bike will probably be a Fisher.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from N. Smithfield Date Reviewed: March 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$525.00
Purchased At:
The Peloton
Strengths:
Solid frame, Hayes Disc Brakes,lifetime warranty on frame
Weaknesses:
chain suck, cheaper components, nylon pedals, front derailieur
Not a bad bike, service where I purchased the bike is awesome. Frame is well built, however, components are on the lower end. For a $500 bike it is real good for intermediate downhill and cross country . For the serious rider component upgrades are a must. Next bike will be a Trek Fuel though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$460.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycles
Strengths:
Very comfortable ride, nice looking bike
Weaknesses:
Seems very cheaply built (grips, brakes, derailer)
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper Comp Disc
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I purchased this bike 3 motnhs ago, and have had nothing but problems. While I'm not a bike expert, I bought the Gary Fisher Wahoo Disc because of the name and my limited budget. I realize spending $500 won't get you much these days, but my bike has been an absolute pain since day 1. The brake cable has snapped, handlebar grip slid off, derailer was bent, brakes rub like crazy, chain skips...the problems have been endless. Oh, and I have yet to take it offroad--only ridden pavement thus far. The epitomy of my experience was going off a curb, the front brake cable popped out and locked the disc brake. Fun times. Anyhow, I would never recommend this bike and if I ever do buy a Gary Fisher in the future, definitely a higher end one with better parts!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago Date Reviewed: January 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$410.00
Purchased At:
outpost sports in Mishawaka, IN
Strengths:
It looks really pretty. I like the frame geometry, but it's love it or leave it with that as I see.. the brakes work well.
Weaknesses:
The shock is a piece of crap. too much bounce with ordinary pedalling, even with it all the way up. The pedals are garbage. add water and it's all over. The seat was uncomfortable. Deraileur in front is garbage.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F400
Bike Setup:
Stock with WTB Speed saddle.
Bottom Line:
I like this bike, but I wish I'd bought the Cannondale. It's alright for entry level, but I broke a chain in the first month, and have had to adjust that crap deraileur in front a dozen times.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie Breiden
a Cross Country Rider
from Maryland Date Reviewed: December 9, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Trek Pittsburgh
Strengths:
Performs well. Been very durable. Good at climbing.
Weaknesses:
The Genisis technology spreads the wheels farther apart so its alitte tough around corners. The components are basic, but I havnt had many problems. The issues that Iv had were with the brake cables busting from the shifters. I also have an issue with the front derailer and having to adjust it constantly.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Rincon LE
Bottom Line:
Good Bike for a great price. Iv had very little problems. I ride pretty hard and the bike has had very few issues
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Racer
from Cleveland ohio Date Reviewed: November 16, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Eddies
Strengths:
It's pretty
Weaknesses:
Built like crap. Need repair fresh out of the dealer. Paid for quality and got Junk.
Similar Products Used:
trek 880
Bottom Line:
I will never do buisness with these guys again. This bike has been in the shop repeatedly. I don't think it can be fixed. I am afraid to even take it off road for fear of being stranded
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
climb obsessed
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlottesville, VA Date Reviewed: October 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
my little secret
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$321.00
Purchased At:
The Clean Machine on sale
Strengths:
I love Fisher's Genesis geometry (though it's not for everyone), stable at speed, Bontrager CrowBar, Hayes discs, climbs like a champ but also DHs with confidence, lifetime warranty
Weaknesses:
stock tires (go for Panaracer Smoke/Dart), saddle, Bontrager seatpost (broke after one 2' drop, replaced with Thomson), J1 front shock bottoms out too easily on jumps/drops, pedals
Similar Products Used:
previous bike was a Specialized Rockhopper
Bike Setup:
stock except for reflectors removed, tires (Panaracer), seatpost (Thomson), koobi saddle, Crank Bros Eggbeater pedals, and NiteRider Trailrider light
Bottom Line:
A great bike for the money, esp since I got one new on sale for just a little over half of retail. Affordable enough for anyone who wants to get into MTB, but also performs well with minor upgrades for more serious XC/all-mountain riders on a budget. Some of the other components are a bit on the cheap side, but can be easily upgraded as you go; this is, after all, an entry-level bike, but it still plays well even with a lot of the bigger boys as long as you know how to ride it ;)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Chapin, SC USA Date Reviewed: July 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Harbison
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Harrell's Bicycle World
Strengths:
Gold series 6061 aluminum frame is the same as on many of the higher dollar Fishers which makes for being able to upgrade with each individuals desired parts and already have a good frame to build upon.
Weaknesses:
Many components such as the Judy J1 fork are of lower quality but do work well. Nylon pedals are definitely a little cheezy.
Similar Products Used:
1998 Schwinn Mesa GS
Bike Setup:
All stock but being upgraded regularly.
Bottom Line:
The last mountain bike I bought was in 1998 and I can already tell quite a difference in how smooth this one operates even with it having some cheaper components. There are many parts that can be upgraded on this bike, but it is good enough that it can be ridden as purchased for quite a while as well. I do like some of the components that came stock on this bike such as the Bontrager Crowbar handle bars, Hayes MX-2 disc brakes and the Bontrager Select saddle. The frame of course is very high quality and comes with Garry's lifetime frame and fork guarantee. I think that this bike would be just a little more then the average Joe would probably need but at the same time is good enough for someone who is on a budget but yet wants a serious mountain bike that can be upgraded over time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
