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Submitted by
Newprophet
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN, US
Date Reviewed: May 3, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Backstreet Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Strong Aluminum-Magnesium frame, very good brakes, generally sturdy components. | | Weaknesses: | Stock tires and weight (compared to newer bikes) | | Similar Products Used: | '05 GT Avalanche 2.0 Disc | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for Marzocchi Dirt Jumper III front shock and tires. | | Bottom Line: | This was my first real mountain bike that I got 5 years ago and today it still one of my best bikes. Apart from the parts I wore out from overuse, (tires, BB and front shock) this bike has been a champ and rides like a dream. I would strongly recommend this bike to anyone new to mountain biking who wants to keep their bike for a long time. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jpvieau
a Cross Country Rider
from Oak Creek, Wisconsin
Date Reviewed: March 14, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel And Sprocket | | Strengths: | Durable, easy riding, minimal repairs | | Weaknesses: | A little on the heavy side, but I knew what I was buying. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I have had this Iguana since 1990. It sat for a few years due to other interests. Been back with it the past 3 seasons. The parts are stock except for a new derailer, which was rusted. (stored in a garage for the winter). Takes alot of abuse off road. Added a bike rack with Topeak MDX Quick Trac bag so I can take cold beer on the rides. A little heavy, but aren't all bikes too heavy when you ride uphill on dirt trails?? I'd recommend as a great entry level bike that has held up well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sam vilneff
a Weekend Warrior
from canada
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | bloody mary | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | got for free | | Strengths: | light only 14 pds. cf handlebars seatpost susp. hardtail. custom made | | Weaknesses: | awkward to get used to | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Giant Iguana | | Bottom Line: | great bike for ridin trails and extremly lite, | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Reid
a Cross Country Rider
from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 13, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Bruce Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$660.00 | | Purchased At: | Pedlar's | | Strengths: | Strong Frame, Lockout Marzocchi MZ Race Fork, Better Derailleur components than Kona in the Price Range (Shimano Deore), Hayes MX2 disc Brakes, | | Weaknesses: | Some Brake Squeaking but they are not nearly worn in yet so that is to be expected | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Blast, Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc, Giant Yukon, Friends Giant Rainer | | Bike Setup: | Fully Stock. Hoping to upgrade as I need it | | Bottom Line: | Well, I got the new 2007 model and the main difference is the stronger XC Frame. It is race proven and can even be seen on its more expensive brothers. It shifts Well and stops on a dime. I can get alot of torque in low end gears which makes pulling wheelies easy.
I am only a novice biker and I am really happy with the performance I am getting from the Iguana. I am a heavy guy and it is really holding up to probably 100km of riding in the past month.
I would say to anyone who fits this description. "Buy it and you will not be dissapointed" | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bike Guy
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA
Date Reviewed: March 5, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Great Bike, light frame, study feel, works flawlessly. | | Weaknesses: | Seat a little hard, had to replace with big butt seats. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for seat. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price. Disc brakes are awesome, don't get any less than that. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dylan Baxter
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff, AZ, USA
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Jedi | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$575.00 | | Purchased At: | Dominic's Cycling | | Strengths: | The frame! | | Weaknesses: | Expect to replace components with heavy abuse. DUH! ;)
Hutchinson Mosquito's weren't all that great. | | Similar Products Used: | Everything my friends bring on the trail. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except XTR Crank/BB, XT front der., WTB saddle, Ritchey grips and FireXC Pro tires. So not stock. | | Bottom Line: | I purchased this bike brand new in '03 to get outside and into some wilderness. After a few leisurely rides with the female attending, the tires were already worn down and got crap for traction. The bike remained stock (excepting the saddle) and mostly unused while life changes ensued, etc.
Six months ago I relocated to mountain bike heaven and hardly go a day without a ride. This bike has been with me on every trail I can get to under my own power and some of the lower-end components have suffered. First to go after the tires was the bottom bracket (replaced the crankset as well for a dramatic drop in weight), followed by the front derailleur and grips. Next to be replaced is that rear Deore and hanger which have withstood some abuse (at the cost of lots of maintenance). The Tektro V-brakes are dying and are being replaced with Avid BB7 discs soon as I require more control on hairy descents and trials maneuvers.
Bottom line, this bike was a great purchase. I dont spend my rides trying the same drops over and over again and I damn sure dont take a car to the top of the hill, but I've spent enough time in the air and at speed to appreciate a frame that just doesn't give up and is also light and extremely agile. If you're in the market for a bike to take out into the wilderness and be able to depend on, this is your bike. Big honkin' chilies.
Sorry for the novel. 'Hope it helps. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don Grantonic
a Cross Country Rider
from New Smyrna Beach, FL, USA
Date Reviewed: January 8, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Snow Hill Road and Spruce Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Loco Motion, Winter Park FL | | Strengths: | Frame Geometry, Deore Rear Derailleur, Marzocchi Forks, Disk Brakes | | Weaknesses: | Alivio Front Derailleur, Pedals and Handle Grips | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Fire Mountain, Klein Pulse Comp | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Exr Forks, Alivio Front Deraileur, Deore Rear Derailleur, Kenda Blue Groove and Nevegal Tires, Double Wall Rims, Truvativ Isoflow Cranks | | Bottom Line: | Due to the fact that I'm a right arm amputee frame geometry means everything. When I set out to buy a new XC Hardtail I had my sights on another Kona Fire Mountain, since I owned one previously and that bike fit me great. I learned to maneuver that bike as well as many two-armed bikers so it made since to get another one, however the bike shop that I bought my Kona (Loco Motion) no longer stocked that brand of bike, but they could order it if I wanted it. I looked around the bike shop for another brand with similar geometry and had the sales clerk take the Giant Iguana down of the rack so I could take it for a test ride around the parking lot. This bike felt just like my old Kona and within minutes I was convinced to buy the bike. Since my Kona I havn't done any serious cross-country montain biking which has been about 6 years, but within a matter of the first time out on the trail it was like I didn't miss a day of riding on the Giant. It's great to be back out in the woods on the trail again and I would recommend the Giant Iguana to anyone especially those that are just getting into cross-country mountain biking. I plan on upgrading my Giant starting with the padals and front derailleur. The other components I will upgrade as I wear them out.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from MIchigan
Date Reviewed: August 8, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | ILRA | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Strengths: | Super light frame. I bought this bike for entry to mountain biking and couldn't be happier. Like I said the bike is super light. Decent components and a great bike for upgrades. | | Weaknesses: | The brakes. V-brakes suck. I would recommend upgrading to discs. Several times I found my front brake rubbing against the rim of the wheel. I would try to adjust it and later on the trail it would rub again. | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line is that if you want a great entry level bike, this is the way to go. I have been using this bike for a month now and feel very confident and comfortable. Has the ability to take some really intense downhills and it looks sweet! There's no reason to pass on a bike like this. Only reccomendation is to take off those silly v-brakes and swap them out with some discs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jesse
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Michael, Minnesota
Date Reviewed: January 1, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Prairie Cycle and Ski | | Strengths: | good price for what you get, good parts group from shimano, | | Weaknesses: | good parts group but still could be better, integrated headset (bad!), tires are only good for muddy situations (very slippery on anything else) | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Rincon, Giant Warp DS 3 | | Bike Setup: | everything stock except for the Easton Stem | | Bottom Line: | Good Beginner bike, wouldn't bet on the frame or parts for anything more than just weekend riding stuff. Like the bike, needs a spring tune-up here pretty soon though. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J D
a Cross Country Rider
from CAN
Date Reviewed: October 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Strengths: | light fram :) very light fram :) nice fork, good seat, rides great, good for hitting a few jumps on the way, super light weight, and more | | Weaknesses: | breaks getting a bit spongy | | Bike Setup: | some shimano stuff... a michelin tire in the rear, mosquito in the front, and so on | | Bottom Line: | the longest ride I took this bike on was a 70 k ride, and this bike whould not give in even when I almost did
if you wana ride fast, hit small jumps/drops, get out and get muddy this it the bike for you.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Rowe
a Weekend Warrior
from Milwaukee, WI, USA
Date Reviewed: September 9, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Dogcrap Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$475.00 | | Purchased At: | Cory the Bike Fixer | | Strengths: | The frame is mainly what you are paying for. This thing is tough and light. I couldn't have asked for better geometry. The tob tub is nice and low for good clearance, while the head tube brings the front wheel in nice and close to the frame for those tight turns. The Pilot up front works well for me. It sucks up a good amount of shock on 1 meter jumps, without sucking away control and pedaling power. I will give the wheels some credit as well. They are not top shelf by any means, but they will last, and last. | | Weaknesses: | Now that you have a great frame, good forks, and decent wheels, get rid of the rest. I hate to say it, but everything else should only be temporary. The cranks are monstrous, the bars belong on a beach cruiser, the seat is comfortable but weak, and the tires. Oh the tires. I knew this buying the bike, but once again, I bought it for the frame and fork. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | A strange cannibalization of other bikes, including a BMX. | | Bottom Line: | I absolutely love this bike. While it does have its share of bad parts, the ride just feels good. Besides, it's all about customization. You can't expect a stock bike to be perfect for you. If you are new to riding, this will be a good opportunity to test out your preferences. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich Salm
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ
Date Reviewed: July 27, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | 50 Year Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Barn, Phoenix | | Strengths: | Frame is Killer and very upgradeable. Decent set of components up front. Alex rims are a real treat. Price, this a great value. | | Weaknesses: | Bottom bracket and cranks.. not good. Stem and bars are heavy and generic. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher, Haro | | Bike Setup: | Box clipless pedals, Azonic World force 2" riser bars, Grips, KORE B52 stem. | | Bottom Line: | You can beat the heck out of this thing. I have punished mine for over two years now. I ride allot and on some of the most hardcore trails the southwest has to offer... my Iguana is still in great shape. The bottom bracket is weak and will only last for a year or so... but so what! Using and abusing your bike and getting new and better parts is all part of biking. This is my third bike and I envision riding this one for many more years to come... with more upgrades along the way. Peace. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adrian
a Cross Country Rider
from Corner Brook, NL, CAN
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | TNT Pro Bicycles | | Strengths: | Sturdy frame geometry, decent stock fork (RS Pilot C). It doesnt bottom out at a soft preload setting on minor drops. Bike has preload adjustment. Deore derailler allows for smooth shifting. Strong rims, with double sidewall, hasnt warped yet. | | Weaknesses: | Sh*t seat. Upgraded this right away. Pilot C forks have a cheap feel, stock tires wear fast (Hutchinson Mosquitos).
| | Similar Products Used: | 2000 Giant RinconSE, 2001 Giant Yukon, 2004 Norco Katmandu | | Bike Setup: | 2004 Marzocchi MX Comp ETA fork, specialized Enduro 2.20 tires, everything else stock | | Bottom Line: | Awesome bike, very tough. Takes whatever i throw at it. Has good components stock. Unlike lower end Giant bikes, the Iguana is very easily upgradable. Bike is well worth the $889 cdn. the bike was awesome other then the Pilots, which werent a really bad fork, just the MX Comp ETA's are better. Buy this bike if you are into cross country riding, that will take 3-5 ft. drops without a problem. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
B. Ulrich
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, Colorado, USA
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$399.00 | | Purchased At: | Big Kahuna Bikes | | Strengths: | Extremely well made; highly thoughtful in its design and selection of components (better quality, I believe, than with the newer Disk model). As so many say, it is difficult to imagine that such a preformer (and it is fast) is so reasonably priced. Excellent service was given at Big Kahuna Bike Shop... highly reccomend it all! The Deore system is FAR better at changing gears than with the latest '04!! It is crisp and precise. | | Weaknesses: | Perhaps the saddle could be upgraded, along with the pedals... my only concern is the durability of the metal used in the crank, and derailures... a simple upgrade of the Deore to the LX, or better, should prevent any mishaps... especially if you have a good bike shop that does regular inspection (i.e., Big Kahuna). | | Similar Products Used: | 2004 Ranier, 2003 & 2004 Yukin, and brief rides on several Marin products | | Bike Setup: | Complete standard for '03. | | Bottom Line: | Unless you are bound and determined to spend more than $600 for a new bike, you have the opportunity to own an absolutely first-class '03 Giant Iguana: a remarkable bike that will lead you on many, many miles of fun untill you desire to pay many hundreds more. Yet for speed, reliability and preformance, how can you beat something barely over $400? The right Bike Shop will also give you two free years of routene maintaince! How can you go wrong? Bottom line, Iguana's are Outstanding!!
Try one of the non-disk models out soon, and let me know what you think! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from jefferson, maine
Date Reviewed: January 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | moose on the loose | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$380.00 | | Purchased At: | hilltop ski and cycle | | Strengths: | lightweight and very study...really takes a pounding.
component package is excellent for the price.
| | Weaknesses: | didn't like the pedals and grips at all and replaced them | | Similar Products Used: | tested the trek 9700 and specialized rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | stock except for sun ringle pedals and serfas grips | | Bottom Line: | this is my first true mountain bike and i couldn't be happier with it. used it all summer on the soft snowmobile trails in maine and then this winter on hardpacked downhill runs in southern california and everything in between, and it has performed well in all conditions. i will be upgrading to disc brakes soon and down the road, possibly a better shock, because i'm very comfortable with the bike and feel like it can handle an even heavier load as my riding progresses.
great bike if you are a beginner who wants a bike to learn on and then take the next step forward with.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andriy Nikoladze
a Cross Country Rider
from russia
Date Reviewed: January 10, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | minsk dirt roads | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | bikemaniatics | | Strengths: | Very very light bike, fantastic at hills, you can carry it on your shoulders very easily and without harm, very fast at downhills, sturdy,fantastic drivetrain, very very good brakes that brake perfectly at dry and wet conditions, super light wheel and tires, very good traction on all conditions, nice rapid fire shifters (i even think they are more convenient than the new xtr, too messy, the rapid fire are better and more rapid duh, haha, more convenient) | | Weaknesses: | too heavy stem, change it, too heavy bar, cage pedals, mosquitos don't last very much (but hey, that's the whole deal in racing, good tires don't last too much but have a great performance) fork too hard (yeah, yeah, perfect for hardcore xc riders, but i just need more activeness over bumps), and thats all
| | Similar Products Used: | maya tour 00 (traditional bike from guatemala) that only the frame is original, special bike modificated by the guys over there | | Bike Setup: | well the only modifications i have done at the time are a answar pro taper carbon bar, clipless pedals, easton ea50 carbon stem, easton ea50 carbon seatpost, and only that, in the future i plan to install a xtr rear deraullier, | | Bottom Line: | its a good all around bike, that you only need to do some modifications to the bike and you have a great bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ann
a Weekend Warrior
from Nashville TN USA
Date Reviewed: October 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lock 4 Gallatin TN | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$520.00 | | Purchased At: | East Ridge Bicycles chattanooga | | Strengths: | light and fast fast fast! Hutchinson mosquito tires, Deore components, Pilot C fork, a very light, responsive 9sp hardtail! the 14" frame is great for small women/boys under 5'4". | | Weaknesses: | Doesn't come with clipless pedals, which gives you an excuse (darn) to spend another hundred bucks!!! I did not like the stock stem (too heavy and too low an angle) and switched it out for a shorter, lighter weight stem. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4900, 4500, Giant Yukon | | Bike Setup: | std. | | Bottom Line: | I ride one to two days a week on mostly dry trails in middle TN. The tires make this bike a fast roller on hardpack. I'm able to climb hills better than ever, and the light front fork makes clearing obstacles a breeze. This bike is a mountain goat on the rocky climbs, and sails on the downhill. Sometimes I'm just hangin on for the ride! A light responsive hardtail with quality components in the $600.00 range, (not to mention that cool bright yellow color!) a great first bike for beginners, or a good upgrade from your 300.00 bike. You'll want a different stem (what is up with that 5 pound clunker???) and cliples pedals of course. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Perth WA Australia
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | One I haven't riden yet | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | Frame, Deore parts | | Weaknesses: | The pedals, replace them straight away with some decent ones like Shimano 505's. (It only costs $150 AUS for the shoes and $80 for the pedals) | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Shimano 505 Pedals | | Bottom Line: | I've done about 3000 km on this bike and it's still working nicely. It one costs ($1000 AUS) so it's only set up for beginners but in saying that I ride the bike to it's limit and it's still working, except for the crank (I might have to replace that).
And lastly for you people new to MTB, the tyres and brake pads are made to wear out. I'm sick of people complaining that there tyres and pads wore out fast.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Haverhill, MA USA
Date Reviewed: October 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Strengths: | Pilot C front shock, Rims, Frame | | Weaknesses: | Brakes | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the best bike that I have ever owned. If you are just getting into mountain biking, this is the perfect bike for it. The first time i took the bike out though, the brakes broke on me, but other than that the bike has been great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Arthur Tong
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver Canada
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Nicole Burnaby Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$360.00 | | Purchased At: | Song Seng Chan, Singapore | | Strengths: | It is perfect for XC riding, can handle some average trails. I was really surprise that the bike came with Alex Rims cause those rims are pretty hardcore, after using them for like 1 year I've not tighten the nipples once. For entry riders who wants a entry bike, this is the one to get. You can pretty much upgrade it along the way without worrying much about the frame. | | Weaknesses: | I didn't like the grips that came with it, they pretty much slip out of position all the time, so I've changed to the Serfas Pro Grip which are really good. I also hate the metal pedals which I changed to the Shimano M424 clipless, the tires which I changed to Panaracer Trailblaster and the stem which I changed to a Race Face Prodigy Stem. | | Similar Products Used: | 1996 Atlanti Racer | | Bike Setup: | Panaracer Trailblaster tires, Serfas pro grip/ pro sidebar, Shimano PD M424 Clipless, Velo Ti Fulcrum Suspension Racing Saddle, Race Face Prodigy Forged Stem | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome for people who wants a entry XC bike that they can enjoy some trail riding with. This is a really good bike for its price, you cannot get anything better at this price. Giant produces some really inovative products, this is one of them. Although some of the stock components are not as good, it is still acceptable if you are an entry rider. A bike that you can ride with pride and a bike that you can do some trashing with and not worry about distroying it because it is not those bikes that are like $$$$$$. I LOVE MY IGUANA! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Reg
a Cross Country Rider
from Launnie, Tasmania, Australia
Date Reviewed: September 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Trevallyn Trails | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$721.00 | | Purchased At: | Geard Cycles | | Strengths: | Frame - light
Rims - tough
Brakes - good
Components - Nice mix of quality | | Weaknesses: | Cranks a bit rugged
Stem - Bit Long | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose pro Rackadile (No Comparison) | | Bike Setup: | 2004 Iguana (don't ask - long story) with Rockshox Pilot SL 100mm travel, Lizard Skins, etc | | Bottom Line: | Buy this bike if you are an entry level cross-country rider. Its a good price for what you get - you can always upgrade the components if you want something a bit beefier. I use it for some croos-country/ Mild downhilling. Very sturdy except for the stem - it's a bit long for quick turns - other than that||
\/
this bike = All Good | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rod
a Weekend Warrior
from Cheyenne, Wy, USA
Date Reviewed: August 19, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Headquarters | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Germany | | Strengths: | Solid Frame, Deore Component Group | | Weaknesses: | Bottom Bracket, Crank, Tires | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock minus the following upgrades: XT BB and Crank, Clipless Pedals, EA70 Riser Bar | | Bottom Line: | Overall a solid beginner/intermediate bike. I have nearly 1000 miles on the bike and have had no major issues exluding the BB. Frame is worthy of upgrading and after a season of experience under your belt you'll see what I mean. Didn't take me long to out grow the front fork at all. Get some experience, build your confidence and you'll learn to hate that stock fork. This will be my next upgrade.
This bike can get you out riding without braking your bank. Your not going to run with $2000 bikes and guys that have been riding for 5-6 years, but this bike is a good start and you won't spend $50 in repairs at the local bike shop everytime out. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JanoszW
a Cross Country Rider
from Poland
Date Reviewed: August 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$630.00 | | Purchased At: | Poland | | Strengths: | frame!!!, rock shox pilot c | | Weaknesses: | tires, bottom bracket | | Similar Products Used: | --- | | Bike Setup: | lights, SRAM.7 as front derailleur, lizard skins, sigma BC1200, pump, bottle cage | | Bottom Line: | ok, my english is poor :)
I love my Iguana. This is a great bike when you want to ride on the trails or learn trial! Yeah, its quite easy on this frame. You can jumping, riding on rear wheel and so on. In Poland its the best bike for the money. I recommend it everyone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J. R. Matthews
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio
Date Reviewed: August 12, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Rainbow Rim, NR Grand Canyon, AZ | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Ride Away Bikes | | Strengths: | Frame quality is very good and the paint job is about as good as it gets for a bike in this price range. The frame is definitely upgradable. I really like the rear cassette (Sram 11-34) which was spec'd on this bike. | | Weaknesses: | Haven't found any real weaknesses yet, other than the weight and the flat pedals with cages. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Mt. Tam, Voodoo Bizango, Kona Kula, Specialized S-Works hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Front fork-RS Duke SL, Ritchey WCS stem, Weyless 2014 riser bar, Truvativ FireEx SL crankset (44-32-22), Shimano UN-72 BB, Avid SD 7.0 V-brakes and levers, WTB RacingRaptor 1.95 Kevlar bead tires, Shimano 959 SPD pedals, Planet Bike cycling computer, Sram PC-89R chain and Specialized lite presta valve tubes. | | Bottom Line: | The Iguana is my beater bike which travels with me whenever on the road for business or pleasure. The bike geometry is great for my body type and the component upgrades have dropped the bike weight to a comfortable 24.7 lbs. This bike is a great XC ride. I seem to grab this bike more often than I do my Santa Cruz Superlight, but I never really have been overly satisfied with full suspension bikes, even with the rear shock locked-out. Guess I am a hard core hardtail fan and probably always will be. This bike is truly a great ride right out of the box for a beginner or intermediate rider. The bike price is also right for a 27 speed bike. If I were 15 years younger, I would actually probably race this bike with the current upgrades. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eddie Nighthawk
a Weekend Warrior
from Lakeland, Fla. USA
Date Reviewed: August 8, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | everywhere | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | Temple Terrace Schwinn | | Strengths: | Frame. Ride | | Weaknesses: | Bottom Bracket. Hubs, | | Similar Products Used: | Klien, | | Bike Setup: | Bone stock, except for comp. and recent upgrades to b/b., hubs, and wheels. | | Bottom Line: | One year on the bike now and have long ago totally destroyed the bottom bracket(just wore out)the hubs, and the pedals. (Florida trails are almost always wet and muddy/sandy, with tons of roots). Upgraded the bottom bracket and hubs to top line Shimano stuff. Upgraded the pedals, and wheels. The original parts lasted about 3 months (300 miles)or so. Still using the stock Deore deraileurs and are working like silk. Have about 500 miles on the bike now. (Would have about 800 but the other 300 are chalked up on my new 2003 Banshee Scream.) Recently replaced rear brake pads. This bike has taken a beating so far and no real problems to complain about. I knew the components weren't the "best" when I bought the bike. But even after the upgrades I still have spent far less than most comparable bikes I shopped. Still not a bit sorry I bought this bike. Buy it if you want a really good frame that only gets better after a few upgrades. Original parts lasted long enough to break the bike in and get use to its handling. Timed out just right for the upgrades. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from st. john's, NL, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 5, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Earle Industries | | Strengths: | Front shock, rear derailuer | | Weaknesses: | haven't found one yet | | Bike Setup: | same as i bought it. | | Bottom Line: | This is an awesome bike for the price! Thanks to everyone who put a review on this site. I read them all and went out and bought the bike. I have only had it for a few days now but i absolutely love it. The 27 speed is great, and the front shock is really good. I ride it all the time and recommend it to anyone looking for a good hardtail in the $800 price range. I paid $800 cdn for it, worth every penny! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave
a Cross Country Rider
from miramichi n.b. canada
Date Reviewed: August 3, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | dead mans hill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | incline sports | | Strengths: | awsome frame for money, deore parts still holding quick and responsive even with big wtb on the rims..giant builds them right!!!.....nice fork.... | | Weaknesses: | bit of crank squeek, a little heavy in stock uniform, but a new post, bar and stem should make her even faster! | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | upgraded brakes to lx, crossland rims, lx levers | | Bottom Line: | for an entry level xc, the iguana has got it..for the price range it blows away the competition..... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a Weekend Warrior
from arlngton, texas, usa
Date Reviewed: July 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | northshore trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle tech | | Strengths: | very strong frame.. awesome handiling. 27 speed. pretty good derailers. great looking. chain hasnt come off once. | | Weaknesses: | fork. tires. rims bent | | Similar Products Used: | gary fisher marlin... raleigh m60, m80 | | Bike Setup: | computer, michelin widegripper hot s | | Bottom Line: | good bike;. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aman
a Cross Country Rider
from Perth WA Australia
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Strengths: | Rock shox Pilot C, Tyres | | Weaknesses: | Nothing for it's price | | Bike Setup: | Stock...WTB Veloreptors | | Bottom Line: | This bike is worth every cent cost me $1000 (AUS) and it's been doing fine. It's a ideal first bike but after you get experienced you'll relize you need a upgrade.
I'm uprading to a NRS 2, but the iguana is still fine.I think the Tyres are a little to expensive for a bike like this but there fine. I can't afford Huchis so I just got some WTB's, there half the price but not as good.The shocks are great and work like a dream.
Anyone who mokes this bike must be a little stupid coz there usally the ones that expect a Cheap XC bike to work like a DH bike.
I would recomend this bike to anyone starting XC and dosn't want to spend to much money.
GIANT BIKES ARE SWEET............Cheek them out at www.giant-bicycles.com
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Colvin
a Cross Country Rider
from London, ONT Canada
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$530.00 | | Purchased At: | To Wheels | | Strengths: | very, very nice frame, like the feeling, feels natural when u ride it | | Weaknesses: | components, but im reviewing the bike, not just the components, and u can upgrade over time. Frame scratches, but doesnt comprimise speed | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | as of now, full deore. Upgrading to full LX/ Raceface group soon enough | | Bottom Line: | very nice bike, worth while buying it, then upgrading it. The frame is awesome, and its worth putting money into it. Buy this bike, but if u can, go with another, higher up giant (xtc, nrs) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris again!!!!
a Weekend Warrior
from arlington, texas, usa
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | grapevine | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle tech | | Strengths: | awesome frame... strong rims.... i did some hard riding at grapevine and didnt have any problems with the bike.. a huge selection of gears to choose from to carry yourself up a steep hill or race back down the hill | | Weaknesses: | read other peoples weakness review... i havnt had and so far... except me as the rider | | Similar Products Used: | raleigh m80/60 | | Bike Setup: | stock except for a specialized computer, and a water bottle holder | | Bottom Line: | i have one word that suits this bike best for the money....... AWESOME!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rey
a Cross Country Rider
from El Paso, Texas
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | The Pallet/Spinal Tap | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Crazy Cat Cyclery | | Strengths: | The price, frame strength, color scheme. | | Weaknesses: | Crank, cassette, and standard tires (Hutchinson Mosquitos). | | Similar Products Used: | Trek and Cannondale. | | Bike Setup: | Easton EA 70 stem and EA 50 riser bar, WTB speed V saddle, and Hutchinson Alligator Gold tires. | | Bottom Line: | This is an awesome bike for the price. The upgrade possibilities are endless for this 27 speed. I'm a bike patrol cop and this bike stands up to the test (I prefer it over my patrol bike/the Trek Fuel 90). El Paso area trails are very unforgiving, but this bike has held up to aggressive daily trail riding. If you want to start off modestly in terms of pricing (limited budget)...do the Giant Iguana. You can always improve on the stock setup a little at a time. The "Once Yellow" color scheme is a winner. This is one "Bad Ass" hardtail!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a Weekend Warrior
from arlington, tx, usa
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | cedar hill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle tech (awesome!!) | | Strengths: | great bike, very sturdy amd strong... very fast if u need to pick up speed. but what i think is the biggest strength is the gears. they may not shift perfectly. ... but it is a 27 speed which is awesome. the lowest gear is great for getting up very steep hills.... (awesome bike) | | Weaknesses: | none so far.... it does seem like the tires could go bad fast but easy to replace.. | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4800 (test drove only... didnt like it near as much) | | Bike Setup: | stock.. except for a computer... (and i may add clipless pedals later.) | | Bottom Line: | bottom line is that if you are a beginner or intermediate rider and you are looking for and awesome bike that wont put you in debt.. this is the bike your looking for.. it is great for the buck..... i seriously reccomend it to anyone who love good lookin... fast actin bike.... it also attracts the ladies! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marc
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | Cranks, North Sydney | | Strengths: | Great frame, easy handling. | | Weaknesses: | Front Derailleur | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4700 (test rode) | | Bike Setup: | Stock, but with new pedals and a computer | | Bottom Line: | Having ridden this bike pretty much constantly for the last three months both on and off road, I can say that nothing's gone wrong with it at all. I have had a few adjustment problems with the front derailleur (it's alivio) but once you get to know it, it shifts ok.
As a first time Mountain Biker, this bike has been reliable and tough. I went over the handlebars and watched the bike do a somersault over my head bounce along the trail a little and it got back up in better shape than I did. I haven't had the same problems with the tires that some other people had, possibly because I've been putting different tires on for commuting so I haven't been wearing down the knobs on my off road tires.
All in all, I'm really pleased with my purchase. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
no no
a Racer
from no
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | no | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$9999999999999.00 | | Purchased At: | no | | Strengths: | no | | Weaknesses: | no | | Similar Products Used: | no | | Bike Setup: | no | | Bottom Line: | no | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a Weekend Warrior
from arlington, texas, usa
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | cedar hill | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$570.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle tech (awesome!!) | | Strengths: | very strong frame... can be used by beginners, or people moving up to an intermediate level... could be used to race with. | | Weaknesses: | read other peoples weakness reviews... im not here to nag on this bike... but i have only demo'ed it so i dont really know anything about it.. but i may enter another review once i get it.. (2-3 days) | | Similar Products Used: | none.. new to the sport... but i think the raleigh m80 is pretty similar | | Bike Setup: | stock... but when i get i may add clipless padals and a new seat | | Bottom Line: | awesome bike for the money. very srtong frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
robby
a Weekend Warrior
from CANADA
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | taiwan | | Strengths: | everything but the bottom bracket and chain slap | | Weaknesses: | bottom bracket and chain slap | | Bottom Line: | English teaching in Taiwan, and decided to pick one of these up as theyre way cheaper here (that price includes tax, as well as a computer, bottle and cage, rear blinker and gloves). Anyway, loved the feeling from the get go, bike is so light. Pops a wheelie on a dime, and a two foot drop is like no drop at all. But the cranks became loose, and the local mechanic determined that the bottom bracket was actually two big! Then he realised that another bike in his store had the same problem, so this may be a trend. Anyway, the bike is back at the factory and will have a new frame tomorrow. Turnaround in this country is amazing, as I just took it in today! Careful of the bracket though, would be interested to know if anyone else had this problem. It took a week or two to notice. As well, the only difference between the bike here and US is the front shock, which is an RST Gila here. Is that worth the price difference? Is the shock on the US version pretty decent or what? Regardless, I think its a pretty damn good deal, 5 chilis all around.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Judy Rudy
a Weekend Warrior
from ON, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | howard | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$590.00 | | Purchased At: | Centre Ice | | Strengths: | light, frame, speed | | Weaknesses: | saddle is uncomfortable, pedals aren't that great, back brake is alright, fork preload adjustment isn't really noticeable, but i only weigh 108 so maybe thats why? | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Yukon, Norco Bigfoot, Specialized Rockhopper WSD, Trek 4900 WSD | | Bike Setup: | just what it came with, no upgrades yet | | Bottom Line: | This is my first real mountain brake. Its fast and i like the colour. Could change a few components, but overall i enjoy it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johnno
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: April 26, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Central Otago | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Strengths: | Price
Fork
Comfort | | Weaknesses: | Saddle | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 9700, Avanti Montari, Specialized Hardrock | | Bike Setup: | Standard. Bar Ends | | Bottom Line: | Fantastic Value. Really impressed with the forks that you can stiffen so effectively for climbing and road. Colour is ace. Comfort wise exceptional. This is the most impressive bike that I've rode on this price range by far. Haven't tried the Gary Fisher not easy to get hold of in this area of the world!! Recommended for any cross country tourers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ctown
a Cross Country Rider
from elkridge,md usa
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$540.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | good value, good everything except (below) | | Weaknesses: | dented a rim after a few days of hopping up curbs... my fault there wasn't enough air pressure though. also, bottom bracket is starting to creak | | Similar Products Used: | specialized, trek | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | great bike for the money. should have looked at gary fisher tassajara too but oh well. no way this deserves a 1/5. great entry level bike. 5 for value 4.5 for overall. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brock
a
from london, ontario
Date Reviewed: April 21, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | towheels | | Strengths: | frame/geometry; weight; components (for the money); speed and handling | | Weaknesses: | none really -- the pedals are garbage, but I think they're intended to be chucked asap | | Similar Products Used: | my first quality bike, after getting back into riding after 25 years; but, I did my research (here and elsewhere) all winter and tested every similiar bike (and hybrids) I could -- always came back to the Giant (in my price range) | | Bike Setup: | for now, bone stock other than lizard skins and semi-slick road tires | | Bottom Line: | this is a prelim. review only, to counteract the previous 1/1 review: yes, the bike has a 42 big ring; yes, Giant's websites are a little off, BUT (a) specs. are always subject to change and (b) look/check before buying. I've only been riding mine a month, but it's everything I expected/wanted, given what I want the bike for, which is to use principally as a fast, light, tough city bike (hence mountain rather than hybrid or road) once I get it suitably modified, for commuting, fitness and (maybe)some light off-road. It's FAST on road, accelerates like a rocket, and smooth over our god-awful streets and bike paths -- what more? True, the fd/crank/bb can and will eventually be upgrd, but so what? At this price, couldn't ask for more. Thus, 5 for value, 5 overall (should probably be 4.75 or something, but ...) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alberto Rivera
a
from Mc Allen, Tx, USA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle World | | Strengths: | Price, frame geometry. | | Weaknesses: | The specs on the Giant's web site, are not the real ones. The bike is spec'd 22/32/44T (cranks). However I just found my Iguana bike is 22/32/42T.
The alivio derailleur. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant rincon | | Bike Setup: | clipless pedals, cateye computer. | | Bottom Line: | The bike performs well for being in that price range, the only problem is the alivio front derrailleur.
After searching on the Internet for about a month for a bike with crank set 22/32/44T, I decided to buy the Giant Iguana for the price and geometry. On the Giant's web site, the bike is spec'd 22/32/44T (cranks). However I just found my Iguana bike is 22/32/42T. I sent an email to Giant complaining about it; but Steve Williams (Giant's quality assurance manager) minimized the problem, answering me that in all the other catalogs the bike is spec'd 22/32/42T. The only catalog I saw before buying it was the one on Giant's web site. I feel it's fraud and I'm very dissapointed with Giant.
Althoug the bike performs well for a begginers level; I'm only giving it 1 flamin' chili in boths ratings for the reason above. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew
a Racer
from London, ONT Canda!
Date Reviewed: April 13, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | boler/fanshawe/cairns | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | To Wheels | | Strengths: | good strong, light frame. Havn't really tested it a lot, but its worked well so far. | | Weaknesses: | rims, and the cranks/free hub. Had a problem with that after about 2 days, but was fixed, and works fine now. Rims seem too weak, cant withstand that much abuse. Back tires also wear really fast. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock except deore front, will b changing hubs, cranks and rims soon. | | Bottom Line: | very good bike for beginners. Can ride in the city, but is also good on the trails. Bright red fits a lot better then ONCE yellow. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Perth WA Australia
Date Reviewed: February 25, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Strengths: | Overall bike, for price | | Weaknesses: | Deraillers | | Bike Setup: | Stock setup, with giant bar ends | | Bottom Line: | I've had tis bike for a will know and it seems to be holding up nicely, so far. The deraillers are middle of the range deore but they still work well, I've heard people complaining about the tyres, they'er not as bad as seem, but they do wear out hell fast though, mine lasted only 3 months. Apart from the deraillers the rest of the bike good, cranks not the stronges though, but for the price of the bike you can't expect much better.
This bike is great value for money, and a great bike for anyone that is interested in starting montian biking and wants a bike that is capable of a little abuse. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Arthur Tong
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Vancouver
Date Reviewed: February 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Pulau Ubin Singapore | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$610.00 | | Purchased At: | Song Seng Chan | | Strengths: | Very Strong for a bike like that. | | Weaknesses: | The fork does not really take part in the ride when you really need it to work. | | Bottom Line: | This is a strong bike that really works with a price like. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Slade Queen
a Weekend Warrior
from Ringgold, GA , USA
Date Reviewed: February 4, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Edwards Point, Ocoee Area (all) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$579.00 | | Purchased At: | East Ridge Cycle | | Strengths: | Light, solid and good all around bike. Great frame for a large person. Rock Shox pilot c | | Weaknesses: | Very basic pedals, I wanted clipless...Had to Pay...But It's fun to add on.
The biggest weakness I have is the motor (Me), but I am working on that... | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first real MTB. I tried riding once years ago on a Wal-mart special, JUST ABOUT KILLED ME!!! | | Bike Setup: | Stock setup, except for computer and Pedals | | Bottom Line: | Great for a starter bike and more...Did not want to spend BIG $ at first, but because of past bad experiences wanted a good bike... I did my research here on MTB Review and a few other bike shops and I picked a GREAT BIKE... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
EDDIE NIGHTHAWK
a
from LAKELAND, FLA. U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | ANYWHERE | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | TEMPLE TERRACE SCHWINN | | Strengths: | GOOD ALL AROUND BIKE FOR ENTRY LEVEL. | | Weaknesses: | CHEAP B/B. ALREADY HAD MINE REPLACED AFTER LITTLE OVER 300 MILES. | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | BONE STOCK EXCEPT FOR COMPUTER, AND NEW SHIMANO B/B. | | Bottom Line: | THIS IS AN UPDATE ON A PREVIOUS REVIEW..NOW THAT IVE PUT SOME TIME AND MILES ON "GORT" (MY NAME FOR IT)HAVE ONLY HAD PROBLEMS SO FAR WITH THE B/B. AFTER 300 MILES OF MUDDY, ROOTY, TRAIL RIDING (THE RAIN IN SPAIN FALLS MAINLY IN FLORIDA) THE B/B HAS BEEN REPLACED..AFTER CREAKING AND POPING LIKE AN OLD MANS ROCKING CHAIR, THE "POWER PRO COMPONENTS" B/B DEVELOPED ABOUT 1/8 INCH OF LATERAL PLAY,HAD SHIMANO UPGRADE INSTALLED AND NOW PEDALS LIKE BUTTER! SUSPECT THE NEXT COMPONENT TO FAIL WILL BE THE REAR HUB AS IT MAKES A CRUNCHING SOUND AFTER MUDDY RIDES. THE REAR AXLE CONE NUTS WORKED LOOSE AFTER EACH OF TWO DIFFERENT RIDES. SIMPLY TIGHTENED THEM UP AND AFTER LOCKING THE QUICK RELEASE DOWN VERY FIRMLY HAS NOT WORKED LOOSE AGAIN YET. I MUST SAY I HAVE BEEN RIDING IT PRETTY HARD, PROBABLY ABOVE THE BIKES INTENDED PURPOSE. UPGRADING! I HAVE JUST ORDERED THE 2003 "BANSHEE SCREAM JOURNEYMAN". | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eddie Nighthawk
a Cross Country Rider
from Lakeland, Fla.
Date Reviewed: November 21, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | Temple Terrace Schwinn | | Strengths: | Solid, very manuverable, responsive! Confident feel to the ride. Deore's work like silk.( Even after being bent by large piece of firewood.) | | Weaknesses: | Rear wheel brngs and B.B. bearings get the "Grindies" after sand and or water crossings. (Always able to lube it out during after ride cleanup with Slick 50 PTFE One Lube.) | | Similar Products Used: | Wal Mart Special (By no means recommended here) | | Bike Setup: | Bone Stock, except for Lizard Skins. | | Bottom Line: | After a lifetime on motorcycles, and bikes as a kid, (Im 43) This is my first MTB. This is one tough bike! After breaking the chain first day out (because of shift cable stretch coupled with an ill timed shift on my part) Replaced a few chain links, adjusted cables and no problems since. Caught a big piece of firewood in the rear Deore and rode the 9 miles back to the truck in one gear. Straightened the Deraileur, adjusted, and its still shifting smooth as silk today! "UNBELIEVABLE". Already gone over the bars (on asphalt connecting two off road trails, things got better front brakes than any motorcycle! Ouch) and "only"a tiny scratch on the brake lever.Rode the rest of the day with bloddy knees & shoulders... and a huge grin! And it storms over the pine, oak, and palmetto roots like a majic carpet!(Rock Shox Pilot C). Just lowered the tire pressures slightly and gained a much smoother and more controlled ride.(Hutchinson Mosquitos). I would recommend this bike to anyone. Stock components so far in spite of my abuse are problem free!! And can always be upgraded later..My philosophy... If it aint broke, dont fix it! And it seems I cant break it! Not one bit sorry for my purchase. Also, I get lots of compliments on the looks of the bike. TOUGH! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: November 5, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$530.00 | | Purchased At: | A Bike Store | | Strengths: | the ONCE YELLOW theme FRAME its very sturdy, Rock Shox Pilot C, Basically everything except for tires and deraileurs | | Weaknesses: | Deriulers, do yourself a favor and guy by Shimano LX, XTR, XT or SRAM. and get ride of the tires and tubes and buy yourself a new pair. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Marlin | | Bike Setup: | Stock setup, Azonic A-Frame Pedal | | Bottom Line: | If your a begginer or intermidiate i would reccomend this bike for you, even if your more then an intermeediate and dont have the money for a higher end bike i would suggest this bike because the frame is great! and you can build on it. I am planning to use this bike for the 2003 XC Season. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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