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Submitted by
hanser102
a Weekend Warrior
from washington
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | collanade | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | swap meer | | Strengths: | strong frame/fairly lite | | Weaknesses: | stock back shock does not hold up and overal back shock setup does not hold up to 30 ft gaps
bent rear shock twice and broke both bolts atleast 3 times
recommend aftermarket rear shock/hard to find | | Similar Products Used: | bighit,cannondale prophet | | Bike Setup: | marzoccchi forks rest is stock | | Bottom Line: | good for cross country but doesnt hold up for big gaps or drops,especialy back suspension | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
j duncan
a
from wendell,MA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 16, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Wendell St. Forest | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Online as Frame and Fork | | Strengths: | Bullet proof frame. Haven't changed the bushings or noticed play and I've been riding it sine 2002. Seated climbing is efficient. Point and shoot on roots and rocks, no problems. Enough clearnace for DH tires. | | Weaknesses: | Had to cut the left swingarm to fit a Marzocchi Roco Air shock. Wasn't using less than 5" setting so it wasn't a big deal. No other weakness | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS | | Bike Setup: | Pike 454, Roco Air, Nevegals, XTR 8spd, Xt cranks/BB, Avid BB7's, Alex rims/XT-Redline hubs, Rocket-V saddle, Thomson post, Monkey-Lite bars, Race Face stem. Bike is set up to hang with the XC hammerheads on the flats and climbs and drop them when the trail points down or gets nasty. Oh yeah, I painted it flat black last year too. | | Bottom Line: | This is far and away the best bike I've ever owned. I work at a shop that deals Giant, Felt, Iron Horse and K2 and I can't figure out why Giant ever went away from this bike. Although,the new shock position of the Trance X reminds me a bit of the AC.
Mt. Snow, Kingdom Trails, Ninja Woods, Wendell St. Forest, Batchelor St., Hawley, Northfield Mt., this bike does it all. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Downhiller
from Tolland, CT, USA
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Some Local Shop | | Strengths: | Very good price for a full suspension bike with the components that are on it. It has a great rear shock that includes a lockout and isn't a pain in the ass climbing. Great color I must say, I have the Orange/Silver color. Oh lifetime warranty on the frame is great, if you tend to crack the frame. | | Weaknesses: | Weak frame...at least for the riding style I am into. Broke the frame three times before finally realizing I need a stronger bike. (Bought the bike for cross country, while increasingly becoming more and more interested in Freeride/Downhill, therefore I kept the bike for that riding style..hucking this bike off 20 footers{bad idea}) | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Coiler Garbanzo, Kona Stinky Deluxe, Iron Horse Yakuza Kamicho, and finally Specialized Big Hit 2. (I go through bikes like nothing) This was only after I used the Giant by the way..after freeride became my thing. | | Bike Setup: | Barely stock..Manitou Black Fork, Race Face Prodigy DH Cranks, Yeti Lock-On Grips, Hayes Sole Hydraulic w/ V8 rotor Brakes, Sun MTX-S Rims, and Maxxis Minion 26x2.5 Tires. | | Bottom Line: | If you are into Cross Country, and only cross country, this bike is perfect for you..its top notch. It has withstood everything I threw at it in terms of using it as a freeride and downhill bike, so it is basically a tank for cross country. Great buy, I no longer ride it, and i can def tell yawl i miss it for sure. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mikey O
a Weekend Warrior
from PA
Date Reviewed: January 17, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Merli | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Main Bike World | | Strengths: | Super beefy frame with gussets in all the right place, time proven suspension design, sealed bearings on all pivots, fairly light (31 lbs), adjustable travel on rear | | Weaknesses: | Crappy race-face chain rings and low end BB failed quickly, hated the stock Manitou Black Elite fork (maybe just me, but it left me on my face after a double at Plattekill...ow) | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Dakar Expert, Trek Fuel, Jamis Dakar Comp | | Bike Setup: | Now has Rock Shox Ario rear shock, Zoke's Z1-FR SL front fork, Conti Diesels, LX/XT, Sun Rynolites/XT hubs | | Bottom Line: | I took this bike downhilling in Plattekill the day after I bought it in '03 (yup...bad idea) and it took a beating with no complaints. Also been abused at Killington, Diablo FR Park in Mountain Creek, NJ, and Snowshoe, WV, with many Pennsylvania XC miles on it. Still like this bike alot and the suspension design is one of the few that is finding it's way onto alot of other bikes these days. Can downhill one day and go for a 22 mile XC ride the next. I started shopping for a new bike last month and decided to just fix up this one... it's that good. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Perry Taylor
a Cross Country Rider
from Brooklyn, NY
Date Reviewed: September 7, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | "Yellow Trail" on Bear Mt. (NY) | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Some shop in Or. (online) | | Strengths: | The frame is tough as nails, the stock component set was great. Very little tweaking. | | Weaknesses: | Avid Mech brakes...not good enough, and the shop I purchased the bike from swapped out a couple of parts before shipping. Lastly, handlebars with a little rise would have been nice. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper, KHS FTX Pro | | Bike Setup: | Shimano 525 hydro brakes, RaceFace Evolve DH cranks, big fat WTB MotoRaptors tires, SID XC rear shock, Manitou Black Elite forks, hand built Rhyno Lite rims w/XT hubs...yadda, yadda, yadda... | | Bottom Line: | When I bought this bike, I looked high and low. Gary Fisher, Trek, I even considered another KHS. But then, I found the Giant AC Air. This bike had very impressive specs, and the paintjob, PHAT! I finally figured, screw it, I'm going for it. Thank God I did! I've been riding the hell outta this rig. I live in the city, so I have to deal with concrete drops and quick cab dodging maneuvering. I feel comfortable and confident when I'm riding. And when I get out of the city and into the trails, the bike really kicks ass. I'm 195 lbs, and I've put a hurtin' on every bike I've ever ridden. But once again, this bike can take it. Not to mention, it climbs suprisingly well. Have three travel settings is gold. 4.5 in for the city 5.25 for XC riding, and 6 for descents. Nothin' but love. Giant's made me very happy, and when it's time for a new rig, it will probably be a Giant again.
This bike is for anyone who needs high quality and mid-range pricing. It's perfect for XC, and it can take the abuse of a serious freeride adventure, and I'd consider racing it even though people say it's too heavy at 29 lbs. You just gotta pick the right kind of race. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Hellgeth
a Downhiller
from Elgin, IL
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Palos Hills | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Schaumburg Cyclery | | Strengths: | Suspension, best mechanical breaks out there, shifter components, unique look | | Weaknesses: | Did not come stock with a quick release set post. The front derailer makes noise. | | Similar Products Used: | Diambond Back | | Bike Setup: | Pretty much stoc. | | Bottom Line: | I would definitely stick with Giant products. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor, MI
Date Reviewed: September 5, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Great Lakes Cycle | | Strengths: | VERY comfortable ride. Good frame, nice components for the money. | | Weaknesses: | Looks. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant VT1 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This is a great riding bike, but I couldn't bring myself to spend that much money on a bike that was so ugly. I know looks aren't the reason to buy a bike, but this was truly the worst looking paint job of any bike in the shop. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clark
a
from The OC
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$875.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | Great Value, Very versatile performer, great geometry | | Weaknesses: | Limited seat adjustment range | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized, Fisher | | Bike Setup: | Pretty much stock | | Bottom Line: | The is a great all round performing bike. I leave the rear at 6" of travel and love the comfort. As far as the seatpost clamp complaints, Titec will send you a free new & improved replacement so I'm not sure why so many are complaining about that. Also the seatpost shims just needs a good coat of lubriplate to keep it quiet. This bike feels like a real motocrosser and inspires confidence. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Mountain Goat | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | Price, value, fork, drivetrain, Durability, stiff clean looking frame. | | Weaknesses: | Mutano Raptors dont grip enogh. Spokes. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized enduro, kona stinky. | | Bike Setup: | Stock AC Air except WTB 2.5LaserDH Weirwolf tires, Azonic shorty stem, Front wheel, bash ring, flat pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I found this bike very cheap, and even though some of the components seemed a little more cross country oriented then i wanted, i decided to buy it anyway and replace them as they broke. Much to my surprise, a year later and the bike is still mostly stock. I expected to have a new fork, rear shock, wheelset by now, but not so. This bike is super beefy. Even after two serious crashes involving fork on tree impacts, the fork still feels as nice as the day i bought it. I did, however blow both of the seals in the fork over the summer. I love the feel of this bike. It makes me want to ride all the time. The travel change in back makes a huge difference. In 4.5 inches it really does climb like an XC bike, and in 6 it feels like a free-ride bike on the descents.
I'm not sure if this is the fault of giant or my bike shop, but the bike was built with 15 guage spokes. After a year of riding, the front wheel was so flexy that the tread rubs on the brake arch of the fork, and the rear wheel is equally flexy, though there is so much clearance it isnt much of a problem, just doesnt track terribly well anymore.
This bike is truly an all mountian bike.
This bike is good for anyone who needs to climb, but also wants to have a plush, long travel feel on the downhill. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rafael Ertel
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst, Ma. USA
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Amethyst | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | EBAY | | Strengths: | The AC Air is a good climber. I was pleasantly suprised the the first time I hit a real climb, this is in comparison to my old hardtail which was light and fast, and RED! The suspension system in general works. Feels great over roots, and fast rocky descents. The brakes are powerful and the rims seem to be holding up. | | Weaknesses: | Like many have stated the seatpost just won't stot its insistant creekinging, I also, like many swapped out the tires. | | Bike Setup: | stock with the exception of the tires and the good old Shimano 747's. | | Bottom Line: | I am very happy with this bike. I do not race so I do not worry to much about the weight. I ride primarily to stay in shape so the weight just makes me work harder:) If you can still find an AC Air and are looking for a go anywhere ride, this is the one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross Country Rider
from Lake Stevens, WA
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Preston RR Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Bothell Ski and Bike | | Strengths: | Parts mix and value for price paid. | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost creak and Avids require mucho adjusting. | | Similar Products Used: | Tried Sugar 3 and NRS 3 | | Bike Setup: | Completely stock except for the pedals. Replaced the nylon caged 424 SPD's w/ the metal caged 545's. May be heavier but I get much better clip in performance. Looking for a new seatpost too. | | Bottom Line: | You can't find a sweeter spec'd bike for the money, and it "ain't all show, no go" either! I've only got about 2 seasons of "real" riding under my belt and this bike has done more to improve my skills than I could have reasonably expected. Haven't had any of the problems others have (except as noted above), but I ain't no mongo huckster either. This bike is more than capable of taking everything I can dish out and then some. Wanted a go anywhere, do anything ride that will be with me for the long haul and that's EXACTLY what I got. Ride in the 4" mostly and have no problems climbing, descending, etc. (except for ones I create myself . . . ). Put it in 6" for trails like Preston and just glide, glide, glide. As for the complaints on the paint, maybe I'm just crazy but - it's an aluminum framed MOUNTAIN bike!!!!! What possible harm can a few paint chips do????? If it's still shiny you ain't riding anywhere near hard enough folks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh
a Racer
from Old Orchard Beach, ME, United States
Date Reviewed: April 28, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Killer S*** Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | All Speed Bikes | | Strengths: | This Thing is Kick ass the best bike.
It is like you are on a coson of air the hole time
no pedle bomb eather
So nice for drops and jumps | | Weaknesses: | S*** Man Thats Not Cool | | Similar Products Used: | Suger One and Two
Shwin S- 10
Santa Cruse Bulit
| | Bike Setup: | Marsocki Bomer
Rear suspention At 7.75 inches in rear
Race Face and XT set up | | Bottom Line: | This bike kicks ass peroid.................................................. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a
from Mill Valley, CA , USA
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Good frame and components | | Weaknesses: | rear shock, I can't get it very stiff and I bottom it out on the littlest of bumps or drops. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock with various upgrades | | Bottom Line: | Its a good beginning freeride bike, good at trails and an ok jumper. It's also pretty light. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a
from Tulsa, OK
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Greenleaf SP & Turkey Mtn area | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | BOT | | Strengths: | front triangle stiffness, do-it-all-ness: very plush yet can still climb very well, components, price. | | Weaknesses: | Slight Rear Triangle flex, seatpost creak, seatpost shim BS, seatpost not really XC and DH friendly (I have 2 posts, 1 for XC [long] and 1 for DH/FR [short], Wheels are built with crappy spokes (its been 1 year and I have had to rebuild both wheels), brakes need frequent adjustment compared to Hayes or Shimano Hydrolics. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro, SC Bullit, and various high and low end FS XC rigs | | Bike Setup: | Giant AC Air w/ mods: Sun Rhyno Lite/DT spokes/REAL (rear), Sun DS-1/WS spokes/Real (front), Thompson seatpost, Continental Vertical (front), Continental Survival (rear), THE front fender, Bash Ring, Time Pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This is my last follow up, unless I break the thing. It has been over a year and this bike has been abused. Still working well, no play in pivots, rear shock still working surprisingly well (with routine lube and seal checks).
I totally fried the rear wheel, broke about half the spokes on the non drive side, and had to rebuild it. Giant should have used better spokes, all spokes broke at the threads, just inside the nipple.
The seatpost area developed a horrible creak (in the frame/post area not the saddle). I replaced the post with a Thompson and it seems to have stopped. maybe it was the post flexing and causing it to creak against the frame.
The rear Triangle flexes a tiny bit in high speed technical situations.
Thats about it :)
It has been a great bike. I would buy it again :)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a Downhiller
from Alaska
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | very plush in 6, while very stiff in 4.5. 5.15 is nice for ups and downs together. The sid is okay, but i want a coil, and no rock shox | | Weaknesses: | heavyish, and sorta slow on uphills (still works though) | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky-five and dee-lux, rocky mountain slayer, cannondale jekyll | | Bike Setup: | 2001 psylo, sid XC, fat 2.5 and 2.3 tires.... hayes 8" discs, prodigy DH cranks, azonic shorty, easton monkeybar, lx shifters, xt derailleurs (work excellent with xtr cables) | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome. It will soak up the big drops and keep your tires on the ground on the descents. The sid is really nice, but i need something stronger and a coil, and not rock shox. the psylo sucks, and i'm gonna get a shiver and helix pro. After that - this bike will be awesome. Even with rockshox, it still does handle good, although the suspension just really bugs the heck out of me. Its a good bike, but if you don't do a lot of hucking drops and going down hills, but want to go up more of them, get something lighter: a slayer or jekyll are both nice. This bike is great though for doing a little bit of uphill, with a lot of down. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Cross Country Rider
from Montclair New Jersey
Date Reviewed: March 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Diamond Cycle | | Strengths: | Everything. The bike may weigh in it 29-30 pounds, but it climbs like it weighs 27-28 (in the 4in travel position). Once you crank up the travel to 6inch, it's pure butter. The bikes barely bobs when climbing in this position. The front fork compliments the rear, the rest of the components are great and don't let you down. | | Weaknesses: | Changing the amount of travel, you have to push or pull on the bolt in order to change it, it's not a trailside adjustment unless you have 5 min to spare. | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Dakar XC Comp | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | If you want to race every once in awhile, and ride cross country, try some drops, kill on uphills, and smoke people going back down. If you want a pure race bike this ain't it, but it does everything else perfectly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sarah W.-age 14
a Weekend Warrior
from San Marino Ca--USA!!
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | one up by JPL somewhere | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Jones Bicycles! yeah! | | Strengths: | this bike rides really well. i love mine and take it out on realllllyy technical trails all the time when im not at school or doing homework. yes im 14 and a hard core rider!! | | Weaknesses: | the rear shocks could be better. i wanna put fox vanilla shocks on it back there. i had to put mr.tuffys aaannnddd slime tubes on it which are much thicker that the original stock tires. they would blow out all the time!! which got really annoying!! my friend and i would build our own dirt jump course in his yard since it was being worked on and we would race. he has an ok Trek . but i still would always beat him by several seconds on the inclines!! one other thing is that the paint chips real easily. | | Similar Products Used: | i have tried Treks, Cannondales, and also own a Trek and a Gary Fisher--other than my AC | | Bike Setup: | stock. except for tubes, rear shox and pedals | | Bottom Line: | i love love love this bike and it really holds up well when i went down a 5 foot drop!!. that may not seem impressive to you but is is to me!!!!i would not reccomend this bike for racin but just junkin around with it is what it was born to do . JUST BUY IT ALREADY!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C0NRADone
a
from Long Beach, CA
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Red Box, Brown Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bicycles in Torrance, CA | | Strengths: | .: Triple Gussets
.: Manitou Black Elite 100/120 Fork
.: RockShox Sid XC Shock
.: Avid CPS 160mm Mechanical Disc Brakes
.: RaceFace Prodigy Crank
.: WTB Speed V Saddle | | Weaknesses: | .: WTB MutanoRaptor DNA Tires
.: Crappy seatpost shim
.: Poorly built wheelset
.: Presta valves | | Bike Setup: | .: RaceFace Diabolus 50mm Downhill Stem
.: RaceFace 1.5" Riser Bar
.: ODI Rogue Lock-On Grips
.: Avid Speed Dial Ti Brake Levers
.: Avid CPS 203mm Mechanical Disc Brakes
.: Avid Rollamajig
.: Maxxis High Roller 26x2.7 (F)
.: Maxxis High Roller 26x2.5 (R)
.: Maxxis Downhill Tubes (Schrader)
.: WTB Laser V Saddle
.: Weyless B-27 Platform Pedals
.: Q-Stix Pro QR Skewers | | Bottom Line: | Kick ass bike - period!
This bike is definitely an All Conditions machine. The Manitou fork provides more adjustability than most riders will ever need. Climbers can practically lock-out the rear shock by turning the rebound knob clockwise until it stops. Screw climbing - I keep mine set on Cadillac mode. The Avids are second to none. I loved 'em so much I decided to upgrade to the 8" versions.
Other than the crappy MutanoRaptor rubbers and the silly seatpost shim, I really don't have anything to complain about. Many others seem to do well with the Sun Rhyno wheelset that comes factory with the AC Air. Perhaps I received a set that a novice wheelsmith experimented on.
I love this bike more than I love my girl. I give it 5 bloody tampons all around! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris K
a
from Boston, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Off MTBR.com Classifieds | | Strengths: | - Solid on downhills
- Light enough for XC but tough enough for freeride
- Eats up the small bumps and takes the 5' drops with ease
- Tough wheelset and a solid fork up front | | Weaknesses: | - The stupid seatpost, it creaks like crazy and the bolt
sheared in half after a dozen rides and don't get me
started on that seatpost shim!! | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Superlight
Specialized Enduro Pro | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Azonic riser bar and XT everything. | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line, this is an unbelievable deal. It rides like bikes that are twice the price. I am really, really hard on my equipment and I have thrown everything I have at this bike and it just begs for more. Its flown off 5 foot drops (with and without me on it), crashed into trees, bottomed out on rock walls and slide down 15 feet of slickrock. No problem. I'm coming from a Gary Fisher hardtail that I just destroyed over a period of three years and this bike has improved my riding exponentially. The confidence you will build up on this bike could be dangerous.
Between the durability, smooth ride, low pedal bob and great price, I can forgive the poor seatpost choice. Cheers to Giant for building a kickass ride... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Indefinite
a Weekend Warrior
from 18th St, LA, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: December 23, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt Wilson, YEA!! | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | 1. Durable frame
2. Adjustable 4,5,6" rear shock
3. Adjustable 4,5" front fork
4. Good Avid brakes | | Weaknesses: | 1. Titec seat post. "What is Giant thinking of putting a shim on the seat post?"
2. Ghost Shifting
3. Chain and rear low gear will not shift smoothly under load.
| | Bike Setup: | Odyssy Twisted pedal, thomson 30.8mm seat post, Answer ProTaper carbon handlebar. | | Bottom Line: | First I would have to say this bike is good when u compared with the price. Good climber with almost no bob but the low gears(1,2,3,4) did not shift with ease under load. I heard some AC and NRS have this manufacture problem. Good downhiller although u have to make sure u had tighten all nuts. My left crank loosed and fell when I was downhilling a fireroad and I almost fell over the cliff. Did some 2-3' drops/jumps with no problem. Braking is good. AC Air and Lite are extinct now. u will have to buy VTs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C On
a Weekend Warrior
from Redmond
Date Reviewed: December 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Stop Drop N Roll | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Bothell Ski and Bike | | Strengths: | Travel, spec., hub upgrade to XT, geometry, multi-use, balance, weight (for drops and jumps, what it will do to your confidence | | Weaknesses: | Paint chips, weight (for long XC climbs), Munatoraptor rear (blew out first ride), what it will do to your family life, what it will do to your body | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro, Cannondale Jekyll, Kona Stinky 9 | | Bike Setup: | Stock with tire switch | | Bottom Line: | What everyone says is true. This is THE bike for the all around rider. It's not pure huckster downhill (too light with Manitou forks, not heavy enough;-)), not pure racer (too heavy). I came from a racing background (riding a Cannondale M900 at 24 lbs.), and it took my legs a bit of time to get used to the extra push uphill. But it is worth it! The bike soaks up small stuff, and takes 4' drops to flat like they aren't there. The bike dialed in very nicely for my 6'3", 210 lb frame, although the Manitou's required the "very stiff" spring set to keep from bottoming on 4'+ drops. Also, the RS rear shock will bottom for me in 6" travel mode at 250 lbs positive, with a drop of 3' +. It doesn't do this in the 5" mode. I also have had to spend plenty of time adjusting the Avids...there a huge improvement over rim, but their not hydros. On steeper drops and chutes with traction, the rear will not lock without significant pressure. Otherwise they function well.
Overall, this is a killer bike. Especially for the price. Unless you are an ultralight racer or bomber, there are few bikes this well designed and adjustable in this price range. Get one!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Los Angeles
Date Reviewed: December 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Angeles Crest/Red Box | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | can't say | | Strengths: | This bike is pretty light. The components that come stock are quite good (XT group). I really like the WTB MutanoRaptor tires. | | Weaknesses: | The paint chips pretty easy. I wrapped a tube around to protect from chain slap. | | Bike Setup: | I swapped out the crankset and bottom bracket, put an 8" rotor up front, and switched to a longer stem. | | Bottom Line: | I've been riding a 5" travel bike for over 2 years and getting this bike has made me an even more confident rider. This is arguably the best valued bike out there. I will re-review this bike after some more riding, but for now it rocks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Juan C. Diaz
a Cross Country Rider
from Venezuela
Date Reviewed: December 5, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1450.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle World Miami | | Strengths: | excelent bike, is really smooth, bealive me This bike is awesome. I did a lot of comparison and reading on the different bikes and used similars. and it was the best choice. ;-) - In down hill is really handling , weight is really light.Color is awesome also, and reasonable price. And cross country is extremely good. Bealeve I,m not exaggerating. | | Weaknesses: | Some problems with the brakes, but I suggest you before make some adjustment. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Bear, Giant NRS2, Kona Stinky. | | Bike Setup: | all component are excelent, xt and avid brakes. | | Bottom Line: | Especial thanks to this web page, reviews from users helped me to make a right choose. Im really happy after all. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick
a Cross Country Rider
from Dana Point
Date Reviewed: December 2, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | luge | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance | | Strengths: | Outstanding out of the box config. Handles agressive, pretty nimble for a full susp, XT group a deal at 1200, black forks solid, Rock Shox Sid rear holding up despite the reviews. grinds well uphill, soaks up the downhills, unique color. | | Weaknesses: | Seat post shim a joke. Check all your bolts before your virgin ride. | | Similar Products Used: | Came from Fat Chance hardtail xtr titanium era, rode Psycle Werks Wild Hare. | | Bike Setup: | Stock xt, black elite, sid rear, rf xc cnks, lg, | | Bottom Line: | No one researches his gear more than I do. I've seen em all, rode most of them, read about all of them. The bottom line this bike costs 1/2 what it is worth. Is it a custom job, no, but it rides like one, looks like one, and if your married, it will get you one step closer to one, all you'll need is a frame, but after riding it, I'm sticking with it. Wgt. 220, ht 6'2, and pounding it, we'll see how it holds up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
geoff
a Weekend Warrior
from Redmond, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Big Finn Hill St. Edwards St Park Bothell | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1350.00 | | Purchased At: | e-bay used | | Strengths: | I love this bike. I consider this the least expensive of the best bikes out there. Of the AC line this was the least expensive at $1700 retail and for 2003 they are only producing the more expensive bikes, so the $1700 price tag may be gone unless you can find one still in the stores that seem to be on sale for $1399. Anyway, for the price I don't think there is a bike out there that can match this bike, and I would have even been willing to pay more but I thought the unusual copper color was pretty cool and figured i start with this bike and upgrade as necessary. | | Bike Setup: | I'm using the bike for quasi cross country and freeride, so the one thing i change for myself if that i'm running 2.0 wide tires on it which makes it lighter. | | Bottom Line: | I don't know how the bike handles for heavier riders but for me at 160 pds, i get no bob, with the 2.0 inch tires the bike isn't too heavy and i can fly up hills, and couple that with 5 inch travel in front and 6 inch in back, i can fly this bike on single track, hit roots 4 plus inches and not even be phased and fly through it. It has allowed me to handle so much more terrain so quickly. I love the geometry and set up on the Giants, this is my third one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jack Shapiro
a Cross Country Rider
from hinesville GA (armpit)
Date Reviewed: November 15, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | guinea road in Ft Stewart | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | quality bike | | Strengths: | alot of good components for the price, great frame that seems well versed in several bicycling disciplines. A wonderful machine that had taken over my normally mundane life and driven me to obsess. best bang for buck, | | Weaknesses: | driveline is not all that great--but livable.
My rear cassette seemd kind of cheap so I replaced the poor abused creature with an sram | | Similar Products Used: | cheepi mongoose, my wife's sugar 3+ disc | | Bike Setup: | stock except for pc-99 chainm sram 9.0 cassette and new xtr derailer--this helped alot | | Bottom Line: | I think this bike really kicks, it's tough and can take any punishment I can throw at it. Its smmoth and it jumps nicely. I had a dream the other nigh about a planet where bikes and humans had been having sexual relations producing sort of mountian bike/humanoids. The AC Air had taken the most pleaseing humanoid figure. Thsi leads me to believe that I mad the right purchase. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Travis
a Weekend Warrior
from alpharetta,ga,us
Date Reviewed: November 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | mansel | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | ROSWELL BIKES | | Strengths: | first things first, It is awsome for the money! it is a wicked peddlar great for all types of riding.havent had any probs with breaking.avids are sweet | | Weaknesses: | the rear shock sucks in my opinion.other than that i love it. | | Similar Products Used: | specialized hard rock, gt zaskar, giant nrs 3 | | Bike Setup: | all stock soon to upgrade rear shock to a romic | | Bottom Line: | this a steel of a deal! it is a great bike for all types of riding it rides great and smoothley. great for weekend adventures. get the bike you wont regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a Cross Country Rider
from Herndon
Date Reviewed: October 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Gambrill State Park, MD | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1450.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance | | Strengths: | Rides well. Even climbs ok in XC setting. Good component mix for the dollar. Frame appears strong. Adjustable rear travel. | | Weaknesses: | Paint. Not sure about Rox shox rear shock. | | Similar Products Used: | FSR XC, Trek fuel, Trek Y | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I ride XC mostly. Bought this to supplement my Trek Fuel as more of a fun bike. And fun it is! I'm sure there are better long travel bikes but none that I know of this good for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
aaron
a Downhiller
from idaho
Date Reviewed: September 23, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3500.00 | | Purchased At: | built from frame up | | Strengths: | lightweight frame and great handleing. it has gotten me over and off everything in my path and nothing has broke yet. this thing is a beast. | | Weaknesses: | the bottom braket creaks but i dont really mind. aluminum does that. | | Similar Products Used: | mountain cycle sanandreas, kona stinky | | Bike Setup: | ac frame with fox vanilla rc rear shock, 2002 mr. t in front, hayes purple disc, mavic 321 dh rims, xtr rear with truvativ cranks and chain guide in front. azonic bars and stem, azonic loveseat, azonic peadals, 3.0 gazzalodii tires. | | Bottom Line: | awsome freeride/ downhill bike. used to be good at xc but i would rather push it up. handles anything and it is easy to control. there is also a 7 inch rear travel adapter kit. very plush. for anyone who wants a great dh bike and wants to still be able to peadal around town. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sci Teach
a Cross Country Rider
from New Hampshire
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The Rock | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Waites | | Strengths: | Great component spec! Matched with a frame that will hold up to the abuse of a rough, aging, slightly overweight rider on the rocky, rooty East Coast trails. Seating (for me) feels very neutral and allows me to move my weight around easily. The adjustable suspension allows for tuning to your weight and riding style. Easy to become one with this bike. The bike dissapears from below, climbs very well, downhills even better and trail obstacles are no longer an issue. All my bike needs now is a better rider! | | Weaknesses: | Rear shock, could have higher pressure capacity. Paint tends to chip easily. The bottom bracket must go! (this is not Giant's fault) | | Similar Products Used: | Test rode MANY FS before purchasing, SC, GF, TREK, Cannondale, Specialized | | Bike Setup: | Stock! When I break it, I'll replace it. Otherwise,the components match well for the intended purpose of the bike. | | Bottom Line: | BUY THIS BIKE! Don't believe the hype! You sure could spend a whole lot more money for a marginal improvement in performance, but are you really that good a rider??? This bike makes me feel like a rock star! (believe me, I'm not). The bike serves me proud. I can ride this all day and still feel good at the end of the ride. How could you beat this bike for the bucks?? Long Live Long Rides! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
G Halversen
a Cross Country Rider
from Tacoma, WA
Date Reviewed: September 5, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Tiger Mountain, fast... | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Tech | | Strengths: | This bike will instill more confidence in your downhill skills than you might imagine though not designed for full-on DH riding. Very smooth on technical descents, corners well and much less squirly than other dualies I've tried. Great component selection for the money - essentially all XT. Black fork has great adjustability and responsiveness (with swap to firm spring for anyone over 160 lbs). I adjust rear suspension frequently between 4.5 and 6 inches for long fire road climbs and descents, very quick and easy. | | Weaknesses: | Some say frame quality is lacking - I hear Giant makes Specialized and various other frames anyway...and the price is right only at Giant...My frame has held well with solid performance and I weigh in at ~200lbs... time will tell. Tubes and seatpost are cheesy. 6 inch rotors got pretty hot on a recent steep, long DH and I had to stop and let them cool off... | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Dakar Expert, Titus Switchblade, Stumpjumper, Fuel 90 disc. | | Bike Setup: | Stock with changes to XT disc hubs and RC prodigy XC cranks. | | Bottom Line: | No better value on the market for a very adjustable, stable dual suspension ride. Trust me, I looked for 2 years before finally ditching my hardtail. Other more expensive bikes may be lighter but you don't feel it on this bike. I recently rode with a buddy who is on a Titus Switchblade and he struggled to maintain stability on fast descents while my AC air cruised past him... It also climbs much better than my 26lb hardtail - a big surprise to me. Don't let the Boutique bike owners disuade you from Giant... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Providence
Date Reviewed: September 4, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Milford Bicycle | | Strengths: | Solid bike that rides BIG yet is fast like a smaller bike. I was concerned giving up my Marin Nail Tail, after one ride all those fears were gone. The Giant AC AIR rides faster, climbs better and is better balanced than my "dialed" in hardtail. Less I forget, she is all XT front and rear. | | Weaknesses: | Time will test the durablity of this bike...other than that the shimmed seatpost The post size is a snug 30.9(they use a 30.8 shim). | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 Specialized Stumpjumper/Enduro - 2002 Rocky Mountain Edge - 2002 Cannondale Scalpel 1000 & 2003 Jekyll 500 - 2002 Trek Fuel 90 and 98 | | Bike Setup: | For an additional $170.00 (the guys at Milford bicycle were very cool about giving me a real credit on parts I did not need(e.g. pedals, seat), I upgraded my fork to a 2002 Marzocchi Z.1 FR. | | Bottom Line: | This is a sweet bike, if you are looking for a full suspension rig that handles like a dream, take a walk on the wild side with GIANT. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from rochester
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | tryon | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | florida | | Strengths: | good components, great for XC very light freeride,(nothin higher that 5-6' drops), good climber with different tires, little or no bob | | Weaknesses: | weak, very weak frame for hard riding, i broke the rear shock mount on like 5' drops, some sloped some flat landings, and the bottom bracket creaks a lot, but other than that non really | | Bottom Line: | Good bike, i really liked it when it worked, its a fun bike, just the frame is crap | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | This is a follow up review. I've used this bike for a couple of months now and it rocks ! handles all I can throw at it ! I recomendthis bike to anyone who wants one bike to do it all. Except maybe cross country race. | | Weaknesses: | The only glitch I have found so far has been the cable routing for the front brake. After the first ride I took I noticed the cable had worn a notch into the metal of the fork, and scratched away some paint from around the headtube. I just bought some frame protector (clear thick self adhesive vinyl)and stuck it on all the affected areas. I would recomend this to anyone getting this bike. Especially around the front fork. | | Bottom Line: | On my erlier review I goofed by saying the travel adjustment bolt was not metric. It indeed is a 6 milimetre size bolt, it was my cheap tool that was wrong. I apologise for making myself look like an idiot. Buy this bike, it is awesome. I just took it to Algonquin provincial park and it rocked the Minnesing trails ! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a
from Holliston, MA US
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Vietnam, Milford, Ma | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Smooth Ride,adjustable suspension, frame, looks | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Nrs 3 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except XT hubs | | Bottom Line: | This bike rides extremely smooth. The frame is very strong. Climbs very good. The tires are ausome. I have a NRS also which climbs really good but it is not as good on the downhills as the AC. Both good bikes. The Ac is more for Freeriding and aggressive cross country riding. Overall a real nice ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don
a Cross Country Rider
from Renton, Washington USA
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Flume | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1445.00 | | Purchased At: | Center Cycle | | Strengths: | everything | | Weaknesses: | Can't get touch up paint for the copper color from Giant. Anyone know where you can? Otherwise none as far as I'm concerned. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Scalpel, Sugar 3, FSR | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I looked for a long time since I was going from a Kona Hardtail to a dual. I rented dual suspensions in Nevada & Utah doing Red Rock Canyon and Gooseberry Mesa so I knew what to expect. I expected to buy an NRS, but rode the AC Air and it was all over. I couldn't believe how smooth the ride was. I recently returned from Lk. Tahoe area riding the Flume Trail, Downieville Downhill, and Northstar. The bike climbed extremely well, and took all the punishment I could give it on the downhills. On the 17 mile Downieville Trail, five of us started the same time and I was the first down on Division 3. The next was on a Santa Cruz Bullit. He asked how I made it down so fast. I said it was the bike! It had to be because I was 10-15 years older than everyone else. It increases your confidence by the way it smooths out all the bumps. Jumps are alot more fun now. More air and more cushion when I hit. My wife rode it a little and wants one ...because it climbs so well! I also feel good that I didn't pay $3K for it! Having the extra rear suspension is outstanding. I had it in 4" and thought "if this is all there was I'd be really disappointed". 5" is what I use most. Sometimes 6" for downhills.
I'd recommend this bike to anyone who has ridden awhile, who loves the sport and wants to enjoy it all the more. It is a great bike for someone who is still progressing in their abilities and wants a dual suspension that boosts their confidence, allows them to do things like jumps and black diamond downhills while still being able to enjoy cross country. It is a fantastic all around bike. I love riding it. I probably would not buy it if I was already a hard core downhiller. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Cross Country Rider
from Tulsa, OK
Date Reviewed: August 19, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Turkey network | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | BOT | | Strengths: | Front end rigidity, Adjustable suspension, breaks. The simple "do it all-ness" of the bike. | | Weaknesses: | Agrressive rider position (you get use to it though). | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro, Jamis Dakar, Specialized FSR XC. | | Bike Setup: | AC Air. Lighter rims laced to real disc hubs. The Front Fender, Lighter Race Face XC Cranks, Lighter and grippier tires (conti vertical/survival). | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up review.
Im writing this review based on a bike switch that a friend and I did mid ride one day. We have the same pedals and same size bike so we just decided to test out eachothers ride. This review is based on the comparison. He rides a 2001 Specialized Enduro w/ a Manitou Black, hayes Discs, and RF Turbines.
When I switched rides I immediately noticed how aggressive the AC rides. You sit very forward on the AC this is why it recieves so many bad climbing reviews from the mags. You do eventually learn to adjust your body position accordingly when climbing however. The AC is also pretty high up making cornering feel less carvable. The suspension on the FSR is much easier to activate (probably a setup issue). One thing the AC had over the Enduro was stability on technical terrain. It tends to make you feel very confident and balanced over the rocky stuff even at speed. The FSR is not like this, it feels more noodly.
I think the AC would benefit from a less agressive body position and adustable BB height would really add to its do -it -all-ness. Personally Id like to lower it a lot of the time while keeping the ability to raise it for the big stuff.
I still believe this is the best true all conditions suspension anywhere near in its price range. It decends like a DH bike while still maintaining the ability to do everything else pretty darn well.
Ill give it 4 and 4 because it does exactly what it says it does :)
- JB | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Travis
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario
Date Reviewed: August 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | anywhere | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Ziggy cycle | | Strengths: | very adjustable
looks good
great breaks
tires
everything except forks and seatpost | | Weaknesses: | forks suck mine broke in a week leaked oil and ruined front breaks. Came with the wrong bottom bracket, broke a cople of chains dealer is 2 hours away dont fell like drivin there.Bent my seatpost. Luckily everything was under warrant and got fixed but should not have happened | | Similar Products Used: | trek fuel 80 trek 6000 | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | great bike great value buy it if ur a freerider racer downhiller this bike does it all i give it 5 for value and 3 for overall cuz of all the hassels of shiess brakin | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mudrash
a Downhiller
from Portland
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Ski Bowl | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike N Hike | | Strengths: | +Color
+Adjustable travel in front and rear
+Awesome front fork
+Great brakes
+Versatile
+Looks snazzy
| | Weaknesses: | -Thin tubes
-Little heavy
-No literature for front fork or brakes (found info online)
| | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro (demo'ed), Haro Extreme (Rigid), Diamond Back WCF 4.0 (Hardtail) | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I did quite a bit of research on this bike before making the purchase and I must say that I believe I made the right choice. The bike sucks up the downhill's, handles jumps and drops, and is a great cross country machine as well. My first ride I mistakenly tried to adjust the Avid disk brakes because they were screaming horribly and I ended up making it worse. Took it back to the shop and they fixed them up no problem, minimal chatter now which I have heard is to be expected from disk. My second ride on the same trail (cross country, small ups and downs 14 miles) was awesome. The bike is not the same as a hardtail on the climbs but it is overly impressive for a full suspension. I have yet to walk it on a hill but I think that is because I am so stoked to ride it (had it about 1 month). The second and latest ride I went on was a short 3 mile downhill/uphill of smooth trail under the canopy of a forest, it cut corners and took little rollers with no effort and once again the climb back was fine. If you are the type of rider that enjoys cross country riding but would like to give downhill a try I would recommend this bike. If you have any other questions feel free to email me at mudrash@hotmail.com. 5 Chilis All-around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
geald weiss
a Cross Country Rider
from bayside n.y. u.s.a
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | anyone | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | dannys bicycle center | | Strengths: | great spec.,great looks, awesome value, great fit and adjustable travel makes this a very versatile machine! | | Weaknesses: | tires are terrible for mucky or mossy eastern type terrain, tubes suck (why such thin tubes for such an aggressive bike is beyond me) first ride i had a front blowout that sent me on my shoulder,the stock spring kit im the black fork is way to soft so i swapped it out to a firm kit. | | Similar Products Used: | none switched from a giant hardtail | | Bike Setup: | all stock except a rock ring | | Bottom Line: | i've put 190 miles on this bike in 3 different type of rides.
the first wuz a mixed fire road and singletrack ride that lasted nearly 10 hours with over 4500 feet of climbing, had it set in 120mm up front and 5" in the rear and i never felt like i wuz dragging a car behind me nor did i tire at all or feel uncomfortable in the saddle.
The next wuz really technical rocky wet and mossy n.y. single track (much respect to the guys in the c.m.b.a you guys know how to make a trail) this is where the tires sucked!!!! slip slidin' everywhere though going from a hard tail where you have to be nimble on these trails this bike shocked me on how it just ate up this terrain ( had it set 120mm up front and 5" in rear }it's very forgiving and will save your ass!
today hit some tight L.I. singletrack (100mm up front and 4.5 in the rear) it handled like a cross country bike, cot hard turns, blazing straightaways and the occasional log pile and wuz very suprised at how well it handled. This bike truly lives up to its propaganda. Lets see how the wear and tear factor goes!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Downhiller
from CT
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | will be purchased at Bike Rack | | Strengths: | 6" rear travel, 5" front travel, avid mechanicals, AWSOME colors | | Weaknesses: | absolutly none | | Similar Products Used: | all 4 marin tara's | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | definatly the best bike for the buck. It climbs, it free rides, it downhills, and best of all, it handels the jumps. at 32.5 lbs it sounds a little heavy, but the marin is $400 more for only a few lbs less (29 i think). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd K.
a Downhiller
from Canton
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Ridge Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Norwood Bike Depot! | | Strengths: | Looks, Rides like a Lexus, XT drivetrain, pedals, Titec components, weight for a freeride bike, climbs great, downhills like a madman, freerides awesome. I can keep going... | | Weaknesses: | Wheels, i tacoed one after hitting a 6 foot jump and landing it wrong. Its probably all my fault though cause i landed the jump wrong. The Sun Rhyno XL are great rims however. The tires arent so great but get me buy. Chain constantly shifts into the BB, prob a misadjustment. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper Fsr Comp, Giant Warp DS3, Giant Iguana, Giant Rainer | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike is 100% pure badass. If you set it to 6 inch in rear, 5 inch front it kicks ass at the downhills, extremely plush. With 4 in the front and 4.5 in the rear it is a relatively fast XC bike. My favorite option is the 5 inch in front on the Black and the 5.15 in the back for ultimate freeride. The suspension is great. I have done many 4-5 foot drops without no problem, and a couple 7+ drops and the bike begs for more. The only problem is that it lands so smooth i barely notice im doing the drop. It handles rocks like beauty and is extremely nimble. Hills are no problems both up and down since its weight is light adn the suspension adjustable. Basically, this bike is a motorcross without an engine. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mikio
a Weekend Warrior
from Placerville, CA
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | any downhill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1380.00 | | Purchased At: | Alameda Bike shop | | Strengths: | Disc brakes, strong frame, great looks | | Weaknesses: | weak tubes, weak front spring, bad water bottle rack placement | | Similar Products Used: | A bunch of other full suspension | | Bike Setup: | stock- gonna have to change the pedals, the front springs, the shifters, maybe get tubeless tires- | | Bottom Line: | This bike is incredible. Even at 32.5 lbs, this bike cruises up climbs like it weighs next to nothing. On downhills, the extra weight is a bonus, as it picks up speed very fast. The disc brakes are great, good for slowing and getting around tight turns on a downhill. The only bummer is I popped a tube on my second ride on the bike, and that pissed me off. Now I'm all anal about doing it again. The adjustable travel is awesome and easy and quick.
All in all, a great bike with good components for the price. If you want a good all-around bike, be sure to get this one- | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Foreplay | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | It's a great all round bike. Like everyone else says, it climbs pretty good for a bike with so much suspension travel. I love the colour, and the avid mechanical's are awesome. | | Weaknesses: | I have a few small things that I think Giant could take care of, to make this a perfect bike. First off, has everyone noticed that every single bolt on the bike is metric, except for the travel adjustment one. So you have to bring along a second set of wrenches ! How hard would it have been to get a metric bolt in there. Also, there isn't enough room in the front triangle to fit a water bottle. And who wants to mount it under the triangle and get it all dirty. I know these seem like minor details, but I'm a beleiver in sweating the details. And besides, being critical means they might change the product next time. | | Similar Products Used: | Specializd Enduro, Kona Bear, Marin Wolf Ridge, Rocky Mountain Slayer. | | Bottom Line: | Like their propaganda says, its a great bike for all conditions. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andrew groom
a Cross Country Rider
from broad run
Date Reviewed: June 7, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | ones that make me bleed | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | performance | | Strengths: | avid mechanical disc brakes, black fork(even though the letters are gone), rims, parts spec for the price! | | Weaknesses: | sleave for the seatpost, tire blowout after third ride, specialized thin tubes on this bike (what were they thinking) | | Similar Products Used: | GT 3000 (broke the rear triangle after 2 yrs of brutal use, still waiting on the warranty replacement) | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except panaracer 2.3's and hutchison or slime tubes | | Bottom Line: | This bike gives me a woody just thinking about riding it. It does everything well, and a lot of stuff great. You can plow through the ruffest terrain with confidence and do some nice jumps and drop offs. You can get up the hill just fine and put your balls to the singletrack on the way down. This bike is great for having fun on all day long. If you're worried about the weight eat one less donut and take a laxative. So far this bike is everything I was looking for, tough, adjustable, value. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
greco
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia ,Pa
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | wissahickon park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | preformance.paoli | | Strengths: | adjustable suspension
avid mechanicals
componet specs
frame
value | | Weaknesses: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock,except for tires, currently using panaracer trailblasters 2.1(I higly recommend these tires) | | Bottom Line: | since my last review(02-26-02) i have spent about 4 months on this bike,here is what i have come up with.
-The adjustable suspension is really cool, even with the bike set up with 5 inch front & 5.15 rear it still climbs very well.Down hill is just plain fun.
The bike is very plush and soaks up
everything, its given me more confidence,its made me a better rider.
-the avid mechanicals are awesome, good modulation and excellent stopping power.
-the black fork is plush,ok the stickers fell off,not a issue.could use heavier springs,because of my weight.
-playing around with the adustable suspension is fun, but i usually keep it at 4 & 4.15.
-good componet specs.
-strong frame, i weigh 195-200 pds, have not experienced any frame flex.
-the weight thing, at first i was a little intimidate,but
its now a after thought.the bike is a very good climber.
-the ac air is not a xc racing bike,if thats what you are looking for, you have the wrong bike.
this bike does everything and everything well.
-its a do everything FUN bike.
-I believe this bike to be a very good investment,fun ,value and quality......
you could spend more $$$ on a boutique builder, but is it really worth it?
one ride and i think you will be hooked.
I highly recommend this bike!
-5 chilis for value
-5 chilis overall rating
5 chilis for fun | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
AL Rodriguez
a Cross Country Rider
from FL
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | ALL | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1550.00 | | Purchased At: | Locomotion | | Strengths: | Strong frame, great rear shox ajustment, Black elit are excellent, brakes awesome, high BB, drive-train excellent. | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | FSR-Endro, Gary Fisher, Mongoose, GT, NRS-2 | | Bike Setup: | Factory | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike I have tried many others, none come close!... Price for component's package is unmatched. Frame looks great!!!!.... Will change tires to 2.2's and handle bars to easton's ea-70. Very Satisfied Fantastic ride!. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug Taylor
a Weekend Warrior
from Southington, CT USA
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Case Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1550.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bike | | Strengths: | Solid Frame with great components. Great color (Copper). Excellent value for the coinage. Adjustable front and rear suspension. Great braking and overall handling. Ride instills confidence. | | Weaknesses: | A bit heavy. Seatpost with sleave is heavy / lame. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR, Specialized Enduro, Cannondale Jekyll, Giant NRS, Gary Fisher Sugar 3+ | | Bike Setup: | Stock, with the exception of the Hayes Disc Brakes. Eggbeater pedals | | Bottom Line: | I did a lot of research before purchasing this bike and rode a number of demo bikes. My goal was to hang on to my Litespeed Hardtail and still afford to buy a FS bike without sacrificing quality. Most of the lighter FS bikes I tried (Cannondale Scalpel, FSR, etc,) were nimble but not plush enough for my taste. The Enduro and Jeckyll were better, but I didn't like the looks of the Enduro Frame and the Jekyll was 'spensive and squirrely.
Then I read the Bicycling Mag reviews of the Giant NRS and went to the store fully expecting to fall in love with it. That is, until I got on the AC - I was hooked immediately.
After several months of hard riding, I am fully satisfied with the AC. It climbs great (without bobbing) and descends even better. My confidence level on the trail has increased threefold, and the FS soaks up the bumps so I stay fresh. I ride with the front fork at 4" travel and the rear linkage at 5.5" but it's comforting to know that more travel is available if needed.
You'll do fine with the stock Avid mechanicals, but swapping out with the Hayes Disks makes the experience even more rock-solid. If I were to buy again I'd seriously consider the AC Air with XTR, Hayes, and lighter wheelset. I do prefer the Copper color of the AC, though.
To sum up, it would be difficult to find another bike on the market with this much fun factor and bang for the buck. It's not for racers but it's definitely tailored for epic rides and all-around riding. Try it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1450.00 | | Purchased At: | Universal Cycles | | Strengths: | Frame is super rugged, avid disc are aweseome!, good component spec, elite fork is smooth and plush, take a look at my review where I tested it. | | Weaknesses: | Only thing I have found is that I don't care for the rear shock too much and am wanting to change it to a Fox Vanilla one. Maybe a different riser bar, but the stock one is ok. Tiny Tiny bit of frame flex on big drops, but supposedly much improved over the previous year. | | Similar Products Used: | hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Ok, this is my second review on this bike after almost a month of ownership, wow! What a awesome bike, the test ride gave me almost eveything I needed to know about this bike, but know that I own one, I taken some pretty sick drops and ridden really hard and fast. Like I said before, this bike doesn't seem to ride like 30 lb bike, it is really quick. I've noticed a little frame flex on huge drops, but this big isn't really intended for those. This bike handles up to 5 to 6 foot drops well. Its great riding on a trail and just jumping off of something instead of being scared to break a weight weenie xc bike. So, as my second review, I have put this bike through the paces and wow, I'm thoroughly impressed, especially since I got a killer deal on the price of the bike.
BTW, BWANA MAKE-JUJU, The terms of posting a review do not allow references to other reviewers and bashing comments. Please re-read my review and think before you speak. Remember wear a helmet, it will save whats left of your brain. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Fish
a Weekend Warrior
from Fredericksburg, VA US
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Elizabeth Furnace, VA George Washington National Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bike | | Strengths: | This bike kicks ass! price, specs, front and rear suspension, avid mechanical disk brakes, rims. The bike is 32 pounds light. | | Weaknesses: | The back tire was junk after a couple of hard rides through rocky terrain. As stated on most reviews below, I had to put the "extra firm" spring in the front shock. | | Similar Products Used: | I bought a specialized rockhooper full suspension last year. What a mistake that was! It could not handle the type of terrain I was riding. | | Bike Setup: | standard with the "extra firm" spring in the front fork. Will replace pedals soon. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great for my size(210 pounds). It will climb the hills and fly down them. The bike will allow you to ride smooth and fast down some realy rocky terrain. The brakes are incredible. The weight off the bike is not noticed when I am riding. The tires are beefy but I replaced the back tire with a panaracer 2.3 (more durable tire). The terrain I like to ride is rough and the back tire blowup on my third ride at Elizabeth Furnace. My brother has the same bike and his back tire also blowup. The tires are good for the front. If you are thinking of buying a bike take a long hard look at this one. You can be a ligher or heavier person and will enjoy this bike. Were can you get a good frame with these specs at this price. Giant did a great job with this bike. 5 flamin chilis!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roger Larson
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | slickrock moab Utah | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Vallfey Cyclery | | Strengths: | Fun, Fun, Fun, sturdy frame, great value, brakes modulate and stop extremely well, seat very comfortable, excellent suspension, very controllable, balanced well, handles my 210 6ft frame extremely well. I like the large tires. I put in thicker tubes and nylon tire inserts. I don't use slime.
Don't think you can find better brakes. Geez they are awesome. I can slow ride this bike really well partly due to the larger tires. This bike shop treated me right and the salesman was totally patient with me. Giant has a winner with this bike. No joke. I wish I could have a 23 pound bike that handles and felt like this one but folks that aint happening. I will tell you this, buy this bike and you won't notice the weight. Buy the 23 pound bike and you will notice the rough ride. Downhilling in this bike is unbeatable. My legs stopped in the climbs before the bike did. Im talking the steep, steep climbs, the one that only the guys that had the legs like battleships were climbing those hills. Or the guys that had toothpick legs and toothpick bodies that never have been tired in their life. This bike is so fun to ride I might be one of those guys soon. | | Weaknesses: | Weight but you don't notice it. Mine weighed in at 32.25 pounds. Sounds like a lot until you compare the ride to one of those 23 pound bikes. I wouldn't trade it for a $4000 23 pound bike. If your going to do any fast riding over the rocks, bumps, ruts, this bike is awesome. | | Similar Products Used: | Proflex, Giant Nrs 02 (demo ride) Santa Cruz, Dimondbacks, and lots of others. The Nrs2 weighed 27 pounds. Giant AC Air lite weighed 31.25 pounds, only one less than the Regular AC Air. I test rode a bunch of bikes. I tried a $4000 (Name brand) and the suspension was aweful.
| | Bike Setup: | mostly stock. I raised the handle bars 2inces with a set of Titec. I talked the bike shop into throwing in xtr derailer | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome. I did a lot of comparison and reading on the different bikes. After the purchase I wasn't sorry a bit. Handled the slick rock bike trail like a dream. The trail has a lot of steep inclines and declines and this bike was awesome with both. My legs gave out before the traction gave out and I had total traction with the stock tires. Don't change the tires. I know what some have said in the reviews but the tires are actually really light for their size. I took them off and weighed them and your really not going to save any large amount of weight on the smaller tires. I found the traction good and it ate up the sand with the larger tires really well. I have kept my suspension in the 4.5 mode and haven't felt any bobbing effect. I can go off 2ft ledges and not bottom the bike. I have the larger spring (thrown in by the bike shop) because I read everones reviews about the weak front spring. Well mine hasn't bottomed yet. I dropped it off a 2ft drop at a very steep angle into sand and other than my pucker factor going up it handled it well. I chose between this bike and the NRS2 because of the strenght of the frame. I am glad I chose this one. If you weigh in at 150 you might do better with one of those lighter bikes. If you are in the 175 to 240 range, this bike will handle all you can throw at it. Excellent value. I give it a 5 out of 5 all the way around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex Jefferson
a Weekend Warrior
from Baltimore, Maryland
Date Reviewed: May 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Patapsco State Park/Avalon | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Catonsville Bike Shop(used) | | Strengths: | Durable, rugged, versatile, easy to handle. Able to ride or drop over anything without breaking rhythm. Solid freeride platform | | Weaknesses: | heavy, slow on flat terrain | | Similar Products Used: | 1999 Giant XTC SE 1, Specialized Enduro Expert FSR (weekend test ride) | | Bike Setup: | Rockshox Pyslo Race fork, Shimano XTR front & rear derailleurs, Shimano XTR shifters, Shimano XT Hollowtech cranks, Hayes hydraulic discs, WTB saddle, Easton seatpost, Azonic Shorty stem, IRC Mythos tires, Time aluminum pedals, Shimano chain, Shimano XT 9-sp cassette, Mavic wheels. | | Bottom Line: | I'm only 5-7 and 155lbs(not a clydesdale by any means), and I still have a ways to go before I'm hitting big drops. Even so my bike is able to handle anything I throw at it. I've not graduated to full freerider status yet, but I'm working on it. My bike is really the 2001 model(bought used for $1300), but still has the same basic frame as the 2002 model. I've changed and upgraded a few components (tires & XTR derailleurs mainly) to allow for smoother and faster shifting and less rolling resistance. The downhills are a BLAST on this BEAST. Hills aren't fun since it's a heavy freeride bike (much heavier than my lightweight 1999 Giant XTC SE1 hardtail). Unless you must have a lightweight or lighter bike, this bike will suit you very well. Only those who are PRO's or anal retentive need to look elsewhere for something better in a good freeride bike. It'll be hard to beat this bike for the value | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Cross Country Rider
from Tulsa, OK
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Turkey Mtn Hi Chi | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | BOT | | Strengths: | Parts spec for the price, adjustability and tunability of suspension (i.e. travel [front and rear], rebound [front and rear], compression dampening [front]), relaxed geometry, travel to weight ratio. | | Weaknesses: | Pedals, Seatpost shim (cant remove and replace with full size post because it voids warrantee).
I dont trust the rear shock, but have had no problems.
Needs more grip on rear tire. | | Similar Products Used: | Jamis Dakar, Specialized Enduro, Specialized FSR XC | | Bike Setup: | AC Air. Modifications: Time ATAC Carbon pedals, Tioga Factory DH Rear Tire, Sram Chain, ODI Grips | | Bottom Line: | Ok, Im going to touch on everything here. Its my guess that If you are reading these reviews that you are looking to buy this bike. I want to help so bare with me :)
Im really not sure if there is a bike out there with these capabilities for a better price, Ive looked.
I am 6' tall with pretty long legs and arms so the stretched out geometry is perfect.
It feels very solid and stable in technical terrain at high speed. Climbs pretty well in the 4.5" setting but gets pretty mushy in 6". I keep it in 5" for most everything.
Why no FOX? I find the rear SID to be little tough to set up just right (2 air chambers, positive and negative). The rebound adjustment is really good though. Unlike other shocks it makes a big difference when you turn that knob in. I dont trust this shock very much though. I have heard too many unreliability stories. Ill post again if I have problems.
The tires are great for front use but dont have enough grip for use in ther rear. I took it off the rear and will use it in the front when ther other one wears out. I see no use in replacing something that works. However, when I finally do wear them out I will be replacing them with slightly smaller (2.3) and lighter tires. I do a lot of climbing and I think that a lighter smaller tire would be a better choice(this is only personal preference though).
I really like these disks! Better than any shimano hydrolic that I have used. Not quite as nice as hayes Hydros but close enough.
Ive been running a BLACK on my Jamis since it came out and love it. This one had 20mm more travel, even better.
All the Titec stuff is nice. Ill probably change the bars and post out for carbon stuff after a while but for now they are just fine.
Rims and hubs are a good combo. Nice and stout yet not too hefty. Rhyno Lites laced to XT Disk hubs.
The pedals were kinda cheesy. I understand where Giant was coming from with the choice but they could have done better. I replaced them with the Time Carbons off my jamis.
It was nice to spec Race Face for the cranks. I dont think there was a need for the DH cranks on this model though. I had them replaced for free with some lighter yet still tough Race Face XCs.
The seat is pretty comfy. I was suprised. I usually dont like WTB seats, I dont see any point in changing this one.
I think thats about it. I really like this bike a lot. It does everything pretty well which is its intended purpose. I think its completely at home in extremely technical singletrack. I guess the perfect buyer would be someone that rides aggressively in very technical terrain. The bike is a little overkill in normal XC conditions even at 4.5" and not quite hefty enough to be completely at home on a true DH run even at 6", however, its perfect for anything in between.
Giant went out to make an all conditions bike and thats exactly what they did.
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Submitted by
Bwana Make-Juju
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: May 19, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Rock N Road | | Strengths: | Technical, singletrack descents | | Weaknesses: | Steep fireroad climbs | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing too similar - an FSR w/ 4 bar linkage but completely different geometry, travel, etc., | | Bike Setup: | Stock - except for the pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I have been waiting to put this bike through its paces before posting a review unlike CHRIS FROM LA and TRAVIS FROM PHOENIX - one of which gave the bike a less than average, 4 chili's overall because it didn't break yet?!?!?!?!? The other one hasn't even ridden the bike and he gives it five stars???? You guys should check your hospital records a little closer to see if you got separated at birth...
Anyway, Giant hit a huge home run with this bike. The parts spec is unbelievable for the money, the ride is phenomenal, it performs as you would expect in 4.5, 5.15 and 6-inch mode. The Manitou Black is simple, stout and plush. I was inches away from pulling the trigger on a much more expensive boutique-rig and realized that I was more comfortable and confident on the Giant than I was on that bike. I really like the laid-back geometry of this frameset.
If you're reading this review because you're considering buying this bike, buy this bike! It would be a screaming deal even if it cost a few hundred more than it does.
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Submitted by
TRAVIS
a Weekend Warrior
from PHOENIX AZ
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | All of Them | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | excellent Bikes | | Strengths: | I have not got to test this bike yet i am chomping at the bit to get out and ride it. It looks really cool the bronze kind of grows on you after awhile | | Weaknesses: | NONE as of yet | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro Pro/Gary Fischer Sugar 2 and 3 | | Bike Setup: | Stock so far | | Bottom Line: | I owe my bike shop a huge apology i kind of bashed them after purchasing a Specialized hotrock from them on here They had no idea of my abilities and i didnt really give them all pertinent info so i am sorry Excellent bikes hope to see you on the Trail. This isnt about the bike will be posting later with Info or any problems i have Hopefully none. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a Weekend Warrior
from fort mac alberta Canada
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1376.00 | | Purchased At: | sports wise | | Strengths: | disks, fork, and so far the sid's holding up good, components are great for the price | | Weaknesses: | small nick in the Sid but i'am getting it replaaced with warrenty (damageed in shipping) | | Similar Products Used: | first full suspension | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | So far this bike is awsome, but ive, only had it for just over a week. Although I don't know about the Sid i've heard some pretty bad stuff, so far so good. and we got a replacement in the mail. So it's know big deal. but I am considering upgrading soon to a Fox shock, so for know it's awsome it handles great and climbs great as well it soaks up all the little bumps. I love it, the fork is great too. Although I noticed the break cable was rubbing against the frame and took some paint off but nothing a little scotch tape couldn't fix.
I could'nt be happier with it for the price, and it handles like a dream. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ronnie
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Strengths: | Sweetest bike for the sweetest price! Were else are you gonna get a quality frame and components that is light and durable. I do 10 foot drops regularly and have yet to bust the frame. Now thats strength!! | | Weaknesses: | nada, nothing, zip, zero, zilch. Been flawless for 3 months of extreme abuse. | | Similar Products Used: | Intense M1 | | Bike Setup: | AC Air, XTR all around now. | | Bottom Line: | This is the coolest bike ever. I also ride a M1, but I don't find myself riding it that often anymore because I have this baby around. Why should a bike cost over 3G's or even $2G's for that matter? I don't know why and I'm wondering why I spent so much money on the M1. It is a waste of money to me know. Many people realize that and thats why you see so many of them for sale all the time. AC Airs are rare to find used because so many people love them and they are durable as heck. Its awesome to be able to blast downhill and then climb back up almost as fast as some stupid wieght weenie xc racer. 5 little thingies all around for the best bang for the buck, fun machine ever! Giant rules and shows us that a bike doesn't and SHOULDN'T cost as much as those other companies bikes are and their outrageous prices. Examples,, Turner, Ellsworth, Intense ect.. This bike is schweetttt!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA
Date Reviewed: May 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything that has some jumps. | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | Will be purchased at Cycology | | Strengths: | Cool color and paint scheme, parts look strong and burly, frame is reinforced and will take a lot of abuse, lifetime warranty on frame, excellent value, avid discs are awesome, very light for such a strong bike(a little over 30lbs)Overall a sweet package! | | Weaknesses: | None that I could find upon close inspection and test ride except the bike I tested had a different riser bar on it than stock. This isn't really a weakness, but I would like to have lockout on the rear suspension. | | Similar Products Used: | Only hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock except with different riser bar. | | Bottom Line: | I just did a test ride on this bike and all I can say is wow! The bike I tried wasn't my size(too big)and not set-up like I want it too, but yet it was still way cool. It handled very sharp, is plush as can be and not as heavy as I thought it would be or feel. Paint and frame looks great. Component specs are good. The avid mechanical disc are awesome. They are adjustable, smooth and powerful. They surprised me a lot! I did a 8 foot nose wheelie with not a single prob with modulation. The bike felt lively and responsive, soaked up bumps like nothing and had very little pedal bob. I didn't get to do drops or big hits, but from the test ride I know this bike will probably handle them smooth and easy. The Manitou black elite fork was very very nice and smooth and the stock springs handled my weight of 180lbs pretty well. I'll have to see on the big drops though to really find out if I need heavier coils.
I recommend this bike to anyone seeking a freeride, yet xc-able bike without breaking the bank, somewhat ;)
As per my test ride I give it a 5 HUGE flamin' chilis for value and 4 flamin' chilis overall because I haven't been able to test this bike for a period of time or subject it to harsh conditions yet. I'll post a follow up review after I buy it and get some time on it. Live fast, ride hard!
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Submitted by
kevin pender
a Racer
from honesdale pa
Date Reviewed: April 24, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | prompton | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | n e sports | | Strengths: | components climbs great flys down hills even better | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | all of them | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | Iwanted a funride bike so i could save on my race bikes.this one fit the bill,great ride,components and fork.i know some think the fork spring is soft but for me it good i`am only 142lbs.the bike rides as well as my freinds ellsworth id(he thinks so too)and cost less the frame of the ellsworth.bottom line great bike well worth the money.i think that bud who didn`t like the bike is just what he says,a weekend warrior.take from someone who rides alot this is a great bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bud
a Weekend Warrior
from Pa
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Jim Thorpe | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Strengths: | VALUE,Avid brakes,adj. travel | | Weaknesses: | black fork good in 120mm but 100mm feels like you just add 20mm of preload;frame dings and chips easy.Not a horst link pivot design which is noticed,especially in technical terrain. | | Similar Products Used: | Titus,Specialized,GT i-drive | | Bike Setup: | stock , 120mm front and 5.15 in rear | | Bottom Line: | Good value for the money,brakes and drivetrain and adjustible suspension. Link is on seatstay rather than chainstay like a true horst link(specialized,titus)so the suspension is like a glorified single pivot , which explains the brakejack and pedal feedback I feel climbing and decending. Overall a good value for now,until I can afford a switchblade or ellsworth. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hunter Petersen
a Downhiller
from Danville, CA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Duey's Dexcent | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1450.00 | | Purchased At: | Hank & Franks | | Strengths: | XT Shifting
Avid Discs
Black Fork
Sid Rear Shock
4.5 - 6.0 adjust on back | | Weaknesses: | fork takes a little while to break in and sqeaks a little
pedals, change them out | | Similar Products Used: | Any other bike, AC2 | | Bike Setup: | Stock- Kona Freeride pedals | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great. It downhills well. It takes drobs pretty good. It can climb great. Just switch out the frigin shimano cliplesses for some good freeride ones. The bike just lets you go balls out down any hill. Set it 4 in front and 4.5 in back for cc, set it 5 in front and 6 in back for freeride dh. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Douglas Davis
a Weekend Warrior
from El Paso
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Franklin MTN State Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Crazy Cat Cyclery | | Strengths: | Design, Adjustable Travel both front and rear, Components, Value, Value, Value | | Weaknesses: | Fork Springs, LX shifters everything else is XT, Rear shock should be 300lb rating, seatpost sleeve, needs to come in a 20" or 21" frame also for us big guys! | | Similar Products Used: | None, first full suspension bike | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock, switched out stem for a longer one, Race Face XY Seatpost, and have ordered the firm springs for the fork, and fenders as the tires literally shovel sand out of the ground | | Bottom Line: | As this is my first full suspension Mountain Bike, All I can really say is it is Awesome. The bike tracks great, soaks up big and small hits, performs way beyond what I expected for the money. As I am a super clydesdale, 6'4", 240lbs, I needed something to handle my size, and this bike does it. It has handled everything I have thrown at it, and begs for more!!!! I think if you are looking for an all around bike to thrash for several years, this is the one. I move alot, but it is no problem, if I have access to smooth singletrack, I can decrease my travel, as far as rough singletrack and slickrock riding, this bike rules. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from SF
Date Reviewed: April 7, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | velo city | | Strengths: | Great for almost every thing: jumping, Dh, freeride... | | Weaknesses: | Spring in front fork was a little soft for me (190lbs), bottomed off anything more than 2 feet. The crank came loose(bike shops fault) | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first dual susp. | | Bike Setup: | All Stock | | Bottom Line: | I really enjoy riding this bike. Compared to my old hard tail it is like a cadilac, and isn't any heavyier. I have basicly just leave the rear shock in the 5in. mode and have never bottomed it. I really like the fork, accept that it tends to bottom out too easily, Im sure it will be better with the new spring. Brakes work great. I think this bike was a good investment. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Concord, NH, USA
Date Reviewed: March 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Oak Hill Trails | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$886.00 | | Purchased At: | Pro deal | | Strengths: | Great components, great upgrade to XT hubs, best discs around,isis bb!!! a virtual S.U.V. of the mtn bike world, killer price!!! | | Weaknesses: | SHIM IN THE SEAT POST, a totally lame move for a bike that is so versatile, the ability to easily change seat height on the fly is lost, the first thing I swapped out for a Thomson 30.8 post. The stock springs on th Black are rather weak as well, too bad Manitou could'nt give you a set of springs when you get the fork, 1 of each soft, med., firm. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Bear, Specialized Enduro, Diamond Back XSL, Intense Uzzi slx, | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Thomson seatpost,firm ride spring in fork, Mr.Dirt chain tensioner, and Azonic 2" rise dh bar | | Bottom Line: | I really love the versatility of this bike. In the short travel mode(4.5") it rides like most xc dual squishies that I a have ridden, climbing well. More fun is the longer travel settings (5.15" & 6.0") for balls out descents and big drop insanity. A split personality for sure. If you want the best of both worlds at an incredible value go with an AC Air | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JB
a Downhiller
from Mebane
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | mine | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Strengths: | Versatility | | Weaknesses: | After having the bike for over three months, I've found myself in situations where a dual crown fork would be really nice, but the inability to put one on without voiding the warrantee, is about the only thing I didn't like | | Bottom Line: | I love the versatility that this bike provides. Even though I have three linkage settings, it mainly stays in the 6in. postiton because I've been riding a lot of urban lately. When in the 5.15in. position, it's a killer on the trails. I've switched a number of things out as I figured out what I liked. The Hellbent risers went in favor of a set of Easton EA50's. The clipless had to go--I replaced them with some Primo magnesiun flats. Also on the chopping block were the stock springs in the Manitou fork. After a lengthy wait(1 1/2 months)I finally received my firm ride spring. This helped considerably as the stock springs(red) were for skinny punks(160lbs.). I plan on switching the forks to a Marzocchi DJ1 when I wear the Black down. Up next is the SID air shock in the rear. I'm waiting on a Stratos Expert coil over as I write this. Not that the SID wasn't doing the job well---I felt that with all the drops and jumps I've been doing, it's bound to take its toll sooner or later. The MutanoRaptor 2.4 are really nice, but I got a deal on some Nokian 2.6's, so off they went. I took the 44t ring off and put a bashguard on the middle chainring as well. I may upgrade to the EVIL two chainring guide system as the budget permits. Also on the to-do list is the BETD swingarm plates that would give me a plush seven inches of travel in the rear!!
I've had a blast tinkering with this bike! Everything I've upgraded to, only made a great bike greater. It takes the motherload of punishment and asks for more. The AVID mechanicals do nothing but get stronger the more you use them, and the transmission is top notch. Go buy one today.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brandon Gleason
a Weekend Warrior
from Chapel Hill, NC
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The Epitamizer | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$881.00 | | Purchased At: | Pro Deal | | Strengths: | -Suprisingly plush for air
-Avids are very powerfull and work great
-Ajustable travel is great
-Great climber on any of the settings
-Manitou Black fork works well
-Great deal!!!(even without prodeal) | | Weaknesses: | -Titec Hellbent bar has no rise
-Knobs on Manitou Black fork get knocked out of place easily
| | Similar Products Used: | Kona Bear, Marin Rocksprings | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike for the money. It is a good climber and can be sued for downhill,freeride or XC. Buy this bike if you like to do a little bit of everything and want a quality bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jerry Quesnel
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson
Date Reviewed: March 7, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Milagrosa | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Strengths: | Plush, high bottom bracket, great components, very good service, does everything | | Weaknesses: | hubs but Giant upgraded to XT | | Similar Products Used: | Diamonback XR8, Specialized Enduro | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for the upgraded hubs and XT shifters and cassette. | | Bottom Line: | This bike does everything well and nothing extraordinarily. It is a FUN ride. Easily adjustable, fabulous components (the Black is great), not too heavy, terrific price. A hard bike to not like. You wouldn't race it if you want to contend, but it would be fabulous for 24 hour type events and as your everyday machine.
Ask about which components Giant is currently upgrading. They did my hubs due to a problem with breakage.
I don't think you can do better in an All Conditions type of bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greco
a Cross Country Rider
from philadelphia,Pa
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Preformance-Paoli,Pa | | Strengths: | The Black fork, adjustable from 100ml-120ml.
Avid Disks,awesome stopping power,Adjustable rear travel(4-6 inches.)
The frame is strong and stiff.
value,value,value!!!! | | Weaknesses: | NONE! | | Similar Products Used: | Giant atx980,turner,santa cruz,specialized | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for tires, replaced WTB 2.4 w/ panaracer trailblaster 2.1 | | Bottom Line: | The bike seems alittle heavy at first,but the feeling quickly dissappears, it climbs as long as you do your part.
Down hill is fast and steady,you can configure the bike
in so many ways w/ the adjustable travel.
The bike is very plush.It soaks up everything!
It deserves the Ac title, all conditions.
Everyone who has ridden my bike is impressed.
Giant hit a homerun with this one.
For the money you can not beat this bike, the frame and paint are excellent,avids disks,and the black fork, This bike screams value.....
I will submit another review in a few months | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Big Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Upstate NY
Date Reviewed: February 10, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Plaine's All-Sports, Albany | | Strengths: | Great parts for the $$$
The Black is great- - travel goes from 100 to 130 mm in one flick of a switch, sucks up alot of abuse
Lx/Xt parts and Shim. 424 Dh pedels
Avid Mechanicals got lots of power
Big meaty Wtb tires
Great working SID shock with 3 different travel settings- -6" 5.15" and 4.5" though I just leave it in 5.15" most of the time
Much stiffer rear end than last years frame
Its just a great bike | | Weaknesses: | Titec xc riser bar is too low - - replaced it with an Azonic 2" bar
The Black stock spring is for skinny dudes - - replace these things and you're all set | | Similar Products Used: | Nrs Xtc 2
GT Lts-2000
Jamis Dakar
Dbr V10
My other bike right now is a Azonic rigid ss.
| | Bike Setup: | Stock w/ Azonic riser and firm spring kit | | Bottom Line: | Im basically a cross-country rider but I needed a bike that could withstand my 225 lb weight. Bought a Nrs Xtc 2and it was too light for the kind of riding I do, so I traded it in (props to Plaine's!!) for one of these bad boys. Yeah I know that Ihaven't put much riding time on it yet but so far it rules. Climbs well in 4.5" or 5.15", Dh's great. Lots of confidence. Like the reviews said before this is a great tough fun bike and the weight isnt unreasonable. For now it gets a PERFECT. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lefty
a Cross Country Rider
from Trabuco Canyon, Ca
Date Reviewed: January 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Porcupine Rim Moab | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Taylors, Provo, UT | | Strengths: | You cannot get more bang for your buck. The frame bobs very little in the 4.5 or 5.15 settings during climbs. Front fork is very smooth. Component group is unbeatable for the money. Avid Mechanical discs have amazing stopping power, and are a cinch to dial in. | | Weaknesses: | Handle bar has little rise to it. Seat post is a bit on the short side for a 6 ft 2 person. 19 inch frame is the largest they offer, and feel kind of cramped. | | Bike Setup: | Easton Monkeylite Riser bar. Easton CT2 carbon seatpost. Shimano 545 pedals. 120mm Kore stem. Firm spring kit in front fork. | | Bottom Line: | For the price, you will not find a more able gun on the market. My biggest complaint is the sizing. I had to replace the stem and seat post right off the bat to fit my height. I also had to purchase a firm spring kit from Manitou for the fork. The stock spring was designed for skinny punks. The SID rear shock is very smooth, but has a maximum spring rate of 250lbs. They should have put a fox on there, with a 300lb capacity. All in all, I am very pleased with my purchase, and have no regrets. Once I got it all dialed in, I felt like Steve Peat on the descents. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JB
a Cross Country Rider
from North Carolina
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chapel Hill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | 1,700.00 The Clean Machine | | Strengths: | Strong as an ox. The ability to keep th same BB height, regardless of the rear setting. Peddling efficiency is great for a long travel bike. Avid mechanicals are really suprisingly good stoppers.
| | Weaknesses: | Came with Titec Hellbent XC handlebars. Needs to have a more downhill-inspired rise. | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing. This is my first dual-suspension ride. | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Black Air Elite fork. Rock Shox SID rear shock. WTB Speed V saddle. Titec 90mm stem. Mix of LX/XT stuff. | | Bottom Line: | One hell of a bike! I just got this thing, so my ride time is a bit on the low side. But from everything I've messed with so far, it is an amazingly easy machine to set-up and tailor to your tastes. It's not as heavy as what everybody makes it out to be. You're not going to win any bunny-hop competitions any time soon, but it's not hard to loft the front. One of the first things you notice when you get on the bike and ride it, is how easy it handles at low speeds. I anticipate that the technical sections I used to navigate with my Cannondale are going to be a no-brainer with this machine! The wide, grippy 2.4 NanoRaptors are easy to balance on, and work really well in the snow that's piled up outside. I'll be willing to bet they're just as good on dry ground as well.
This is an amazing playbike. If you want strictly XC, then get something from the NRS line, but if you want fun, this is the way to go. After I log more time on it, I'll give an update on any problems if they arise. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
FoolCyclist
a Cross Country Rider
from Corvallis,OR
Date Reviewed: November 22, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Strengths: | Great suspension, great fork. The adjustable travel is awesome. | | Weaknesses: | Tires are two wide for anything but downhill. LX shifters suck. | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Mantra, Kona Bear | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Fire XC Pro 2.1 tires. 0 degree 115mm Kore Elite stem. Titec Berserker saddle. XT shifters. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. It does anything you want. The weight may sound high at first but when you're riding it you dont notice. In the 4.5 inch setting this thing climbs really well. Just learn to pedal smoothly and it climbs right up the steepest trails. Even when you need to stand and add the power it doesn't seem to react badly at all. Then when you get to the top and bump up the travel this bike descends with the best of em. Keep in mind though if you are looking for a strictly freeride bike that you go with the AC 1 or 2. I love the Avid brakes also. They have more enough power for everything I do and I love the feel of the mechanicals. Just be prepared to clean the cables in the winter. The Black fork up front works really well also. I leave it in the four inch setting most of the time. When you stop to change the rear travel it is simple to just flip the switch on the fork and compress it to get 5 inches up front. The thing is super plush in the long setting but I have yet to bottom it out so its working great for me. The lettering stickers are gonna come off, but who cares and I hear Manitou replaces them for free. Overall this bike is the ultimate trail bike and any problems you heard about flex last year are gone now. Its claimed to be 30% stiffer in the rear now.
I have three full-suspension trail bikes, but this is the one that I ride all the time now. Its incredibly fun and does everything well. If you looking for a great trail bike that won't hold you back pick this one up. If you are gonna do any racing maybe look elsewhere, but if fun is the bottom line you cant go wrong here. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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