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Submitted by
Rhodes
a Weekend Warrior
from Owatonna, mn, usa
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | United States | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | a mankato bike shop | | Strengths: | strong frame, relatively lightweight, good geometry | | Weaknesses: | can't think of any | | Bike Setup: | XT upgraded- crank, derailleurs, brakes, and hubs. Marzocchi 33 fork, WTB Dual Duty rims, WTB Mutano Raptor tires, WTB Laser V saddle | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike as a replacement bike after getting hit by a car and totaling my Trek 3700. I've been really pleased with the frame and have just upgraded everything in the past year. I work at a bike shop and wouldn't have upgraded everything if the frame was junk. Pretty sweet bike. If you are looking for a bike that will grow with you and upgrade along the way then this is the bike for you. I'm sure there are more fancy bikes for more money, but I stick with Giant because you get more bike for less money. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
D
a Cross Country Rider
from winnipeg, manitoba, canada
Date Reviewed: August 2, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Fort Whyte | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Olympia Portage Aven | | Strengths: | Awesome bike. I loved it so much I sold my friend on it - she loves it too. Smooth..... | | Weaknesses: | The seat! Oh my ass.... | | Bottom Line: | Buy this bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake Laurie
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | pipe dump | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Great for the weekend trail bash, and has been sweet for communting around the city. this thing eats stairs.... | | Weaknesses: | have broken 2 brake cables and destroyed a rear gear cluster | | Bike Setup: | stock except road tyres for the commute, something chunkier for the bush. new brake pads. | | Bottom Line: | has been good value for money, but under some punishment my brake cables have not stood up. But, this prob is an indication of the state of my brake pads. once these were changed, the disks held up awesome. 5th gear on my cluster exploded, but again, was under severe duress | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy Morrison
a Cross Country Rider
from West Sussex
Date Reviewed: February 15, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | South Downs | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | local cycle shop | | Strengths: | Great frame, geometry suits me perfectly. Good brakes, Great value | | Weaknesses: | Tyres / tubes heavy but OK off road but need others on road. Cheap pedals | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh thunder road, Scott boulder | | Bike Setup: | Specialized Body geometry saddle, LX mechs and hollowtech chainset. MPH3 hydraulic brakes | | Bottom Line: | A good value all rounder. I upgraded parts because I had them for another project; but the basic bike was SO good I added them to the Yukon instead!
I am a big(ish) bloke (190lbs) but the forks suit me really well. Mine is the last of the round tube Yukons but my 18 year old son has a 2007 hydra formed frame version. If you want a basic reliable workhorse this is it. But choose some careful upgrades, loose some weight from the tyres and tubes and you can make this bike feel and ride like a $2000 machine.
Would I buy another Giant? I have since bought two for my kids and am about to order a Yukon FX1 as well!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tom boase
a Weekend Warrior
from monmouth wales
Date Reviewed: October 23, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | bike base | | Strengths: | nice ride good brakes and the forks are ok.nice gear change it make me so horney. | | Weaknesses: | none but it make me so horney i like to think im sponcerd but i dont have a tv | | Bottom Line: | loverly it make me oh so horney tested by horney devil 93 | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mica
a Weekend Warrior
from stevenville montana usa
Date Reviewed: September 27, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | local 4x4 roads and fire roads | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$420.00 | | Purchased At: | big sky cycle | | Strengths: | awsome bike for the money, I have put nothing but brake pads and tires on this bike. I added a computer and with some 600+ miles on the bike I am extremly happy with my bike. | | Weaknesses: | could use better shifters and at least on mine it needs a new front derailer | | Similar Products Used: | all kinda of mountain bikes | | Bike Setup: | stock save for tires, specilzed pro aggresive ones, kevlar belting | | Bottom Line: | love it would sugest it to anyone wanting a stout reliable bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phillip Dean
a Weekend Warrior
from Buford GA USA
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Powerhouse Park Overlook | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Board-n-Bike | | Strengths: | I love the cost of this bike, not to mention Giant makes Trek. It is a great value, being that I am a beginner and getting into the weekend warrior riding and I love it.One of the owners of the bike shop next to my house recommended that your bike would dictate the enjoyment of your ride. She was right. The disc brakes, front shocks, and overall frame of this bike is amazing. | | Weaknesses: | The Shimano shifters could be better, but seriously, you arent spending $1500.00 for this bike so what do you expect. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 3900, Haro V3 | | Bike Setup: | Stock - for now. | | Bottom Line: | I would buy 4 of these if I wasnt a poor college kid. I love the price and the overall value of the bike, now I just need a cool enough car to tote it around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Buu
a
from Toronto, ON Canada
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Sporting Life | | Bottom Line: | Very nice bike. Light and responsive and great for fast XC. Decent components, came with disc brakes, suntour front shock is entry level but decent for my needs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh
a Downhiller
from portland OR USA
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | floyed light park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | bobs bikes | | Strengths: | headset, hayes disk brakes, rear derailur, everything exept: | | Weaknesses: | fork, the CRANK SUCKS. needs to be upgraded. | | Bike Setup: | all stock, i had a replacement rotor that i put in about a year ago. new tires. new brake pads. forté front Vbrake | | Bottom Line: | awsome bike. will last about 4 years before the hole thing needs an overhall | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Cleveland
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | West branch | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | B&K | | Strengths: | Sweet Frame. Quick little bike. | | Weaknesses: | Pedals had to go and tires no good for pavement | | Similar Products Used: | Gary fisher Wahoo (one year) | | Bike Setup: | Kenda Kross Plus tires and some old pedals laying around (XTS?) | | Bottom Line: | After nothing but problem with the wahoo I have found a bike worth what I paid. The difference was I bought it at a bike shop that puts thier customer as the first priority. They made sure the bike was put together right before it left the door. This bike has the most bang for the buck. The handling is supurb, it is quick and agile. Being that it is used mostly as a cumuter The tires were not for me. No the componets are not top of the line but defintley inline with the price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Love
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin TX, USA
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Walnut Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Buck's Bikes | | Strengths: | Rugged Beasty Frame. Disc Brakes. Good stock saddle | | Weaknesses: | Tires really just for dirt. Shifters took a little time to get used to. | | Similar Products Used: | Endorphin Stinger Dual suspension...yuck. | | Bike Setup: | All stock | | Bottom Line: | Really good value. Great beginner's bike.
There's no snob appeal to this bike, but it is pretty tuff and good looking. I am a big guy and this bike lets me climb and grind. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick tompshon
a Weekend Warrior
from Broken Hill
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | super elliots | | Strengths: | Every thing the brakes are awsome the gears awsome and the bike looks drop dead gorgoues | | Weaknesses: | none at all | | Similar Products Used: | dunlop wildfire
slazenger slr 2000 (s#$t bike fell apart after 1 ride | | Bike Setup: | stock except for thorn proof tires | | Bottom Line: | a awsome bike that is great recommanded greatly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick tompshon
a Weekend Warrior
from Broken Hill
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | super elliots | | Strengths: | Every thing the brakes are awsome the gears awsome and the bike looks drop dead gorgoues | | Weaknesses: | none at all | | Similar Products Used: | dunlop wildfire
slazenger slr 2000 (s#$t bike fell apart after 1 ride | | Bike Setup: | stock except for thorn proof tires | | Bottom Line: | a awsome bike that is great recommanded greatly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
captainlew
a Cross Country Rider
from Montmatre, Saskatchewan, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 4, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Indian Head hills | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$595.00 | | Purchased At: | Dutch Cycle | | Strengths: | Handles rough terrain (cattle pasture, creek hills) with high level of stability; good braking; great seat and body position (IMO) - hardly needed to stand and my hands usually fell asleep with my old bike despite soft grips; strong and light frame is easy to lift over fences | | Weaknesses: | shifting could be a little more predictable, but is easy to get used to | | Similar Products Used: | 1991 BRC Sierra (no shocks) | | Bike Setup: | Dealer put Yukon parts on blue Ranier 17" frame to clear 2006's. Stock setup so far, just some tightening and fiddling | | Bottom Line: | I love my new bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Holden McPhee
a Weekend Warrior
from Canberra, ACT, Australia
Date Reviewed: March 27, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Sterling or Red Hill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Onya Bike Warehouse | | Strengths: | Frame is ok
The Shocks are great for begginers
Discs are nice
Rear Der. in okay
Tyres are real nice for dirt
Rims hold up for their price | | Weaknesses: | The Shifters are absolutly crap
The seat post ic crap as it the seat
| | Similar Products Used: | Giant Atx and Alias | | Bike Setup: | Factory setup exept for new deore shifters,maxxis highroller wheels and USR seat post with Italia seat. | | Bottom Line: | For the price, this bike is tops. Its handled some of the roughest and rockiest trails ive hit. Its handled stacks that are to no fault of the bike and did i mention the great value for money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Connor
a Cross Country Rider
from Lancaster, England
Date Reviewed: August 3, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Garburn pass, Lake District | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$455.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle magic, Lancaster | | Strengths: | Well picked components which seem to be cheap compared to my other bike but they seem to be well put together and dont let you down.Great 1st bike for people giving mountain biking a try. | | Weaknesses: | Front fork is a little solid for my liking but if this was my only bike I would upgrade to a Marzocchi or something.Seat was a little too soft but I am nit picking,this is a good bike. | | Similar Products Used: | I have a Marin Rock springs for serious off road. | | Bike Setup: | Standard as yet but plan to fit a new stem and carbon bar.Also have some Mavic wheels lying around the garage which should be better than the ones on it at the moment but saying that there is nothing wrong with them apart from looking a little worn around the rims. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike as a try out to see if I liked mountain biking and it didnt disappoint. I then progressed to a Marin Rock Springs which has been a waste of money but the Giant is always a reliable workhorse.
If you have a good experience with a product you will tend more often than not to stick with that brand. I would certainly buy a Giant again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake
a Cross Country Rider
from Mobile, AL, USA
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$375.00 | | Purchased At: | Cadence120 | | Strengths: | -strong frame
-good brakes for the price (disc)
-good rear der.
-good feel in almost any offroad conditions
-seat is comfy | | Weaknesses: | -shifters suck, need upgrading
-front der needs upgrade
-brakes rub slightly
-tires hate the pavement | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 3900, Gary Fisher Tarpon, Specialized Hardrock | | Bike Setup: | stock 2004, with upgrades to come | | Bottom Line: | The bike is GREAT for the money. I would bike this bike again. The only probs i have are with the front der, it has trouble shifting down to 1, and the brake pads rub. The tires are definately meant for only offroad use. I researched mountain bikes for nearly a month before I purchased, and I got a good deal from a great shop. If you are considering this bike, buy it, you won;t regret it. The only other bike I would recomend is the Specialized rockhopper disc, which will add another $200+. New riders should definately check this bike out last, you will definately be impressed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johann Gonzales
a Weekend Warrior
from Manila, Philippines
Date Reviewed: February 2, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Maarat | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | Power Bikes | | Strengths: | solid frame, neutral feel, responsive and good weight | | Weaknesses: | hate the 30.8 seat tube, very hard to find good branded replacements/upgrades. | | Bike Setup: | before: suntour xc75 fork, stock wheelset with michellin tires, altus FD, acera RD, shimano integrated rapidfire brake and shifters, sr cranks with square taper BB, tektro brakes, stock handlebars with Giant stem
upgraded: marzocchi mx comp air, deore front and rear hubs, mavic x221 rims, nokian tires, deore FR and DR, deore mechanical discs, truvativ firex with SL BB, amoeba handlebars, cane creek S2 headset, and da bomb mig stem | | Bottom Line: | the only original part i kept on the bike is the frame, seat post (because i couldn't find a replacement for the 30.8) and seat clamp.
i didn't ride the bike that much with the original specs; but with the set up i have right now i can say this frame is solid for whatever ride you do on the weekends.
the frame feels very light and is very responsive....i weigh 120 pounds and i think i really won't be able to break this frame!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jarvis Boots
a Downhiller
from hilo,hawaii,US
Date Reviewed: December 11, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Mouna kea | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$607.00 | | Purchased At: | mid pacific wheels | | Strengths: | Really strong frame and fork.Dubble wall rims. | | Weaknesses: | none at all. | | Similar Products Used: | speacialized hardrock,santa cruz blur | | Bike Setup: | stock yellow size 14 frame,exept the disk brakes | | Bottom Line: | this is the best hard tail ive ever rode in my life.Really strong frame I jumped off my roof alot of times.very very good setup stock parts exept brakes | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Irv Haynes
a Cross Country Rider
from inthecountry, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Secret | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$470.00 | | Purchased At: | Spoke'N Sport | | Strengths: | Very well balanced. Deore rear deraileur. Disk brake works
well. Metal pedals with composite. Good cooshy grips. 25
inch frame. Saddle is the most comfortable stock saddle that I have ever found, and I own seven bikes and counting.
Great paint job on my glass black with silver/blue trim. | | Weaknesses: | Hutchison tires are grrrrrrrrrreat on dirt, but not so hot on pavement. Would have rather had a Deore front deraileur. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwin impact, Schwin Sierra, Raleigh comfort ATB. | | Bike Setup: | 25 inch frame. Hutchison Scorpion 26x2.0 tires. Double wall
rims, Hayes Disc brake. | | Bottom Line: | This is bike is the most well balance bike that I have ever road except for my sons Cannondale.
Best bike for the money by farrrr.
A very classy MTB bike with the glossy black paint.
With only a few changes this bike could be Giants top
of the line MTB.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kathy Baran
a Cross Country Rider
from Kingston, Ny. USA
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Jokey Hill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Brothers | | Strengths: | Very well balanced,so it handles real well. Disk brakes seem alright. | | Weaknesses: | ALL the shifting on this bike sucks. Previous bike was better. WAL-MART SPECIAL with low end Shimano Parts. | | Similar Products Used: | Pacific from Wal-Mart | | Bike Setup: | All stock for 2003 bike | | Bottom Line: | Its a nice bike, but for the money I'm not really sure. I'ts to bad they don't give you a week's trial period on it. Guess I'll be doing a few upgrades when I can afford it. But on the bright side it is a very nice bike to look at. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
spencer
a Weekend Warrior
from tacoma wa usa
Date Reviewed: June 10, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | bike tech | | Strengths: | Great frame
price | | Weaknesses: | fork had defect warrenty covered was upgraded to manatou black comp
drive terrain sucks
tires suck
breaks arnt the best in mud
crank bent | | Bike Setup: | stock accecpt of upgraded fork
| | Bottom Line: | This bike is pretty sweet and the free black fork makes it even sweeter especially for the price. I would defintaly reccomend this bike. I did bend the crank and had to get a new one but they had one on warrenty there so i got it for 10 bucks whic was sweet | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
max
a Weekend Warrior
from tucson,az, usa
Date Reviewed: January 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | fantasy island | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$435.00 | | Purchased At: | jacks bicycles | | Strengths: | Bike is sturdy, durable, fairly lightweight, and upgradeable. The ride is comfortable, yet rugged for the off-road. | | Weaknesses: | The components didn't last as long as I was hoping after only two years of I had to upgrade the entire drivetrain. (apprx 900miles) I'm still learning so, not really sure if this is to be expected. every 1000 miles or so.. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwin Mesa, their largest frame felt too small for me I'm 6' 4"
Trek 4100 - I felt like I was riding too upright. | | Bike Setup: | stock: tires/wheels/hubs/fork.
Recently upgraded to XT shifters, de-railers crank and cassette. Bike is like new again. | | Bottom Line: | If your a newbie like I was this is a great place to start if your looking to take it off road. Lower models off good entry points, but this frameset offers you the best upgrade path.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Grey
a Cross Country Rider
from santa rosa Ca.
Date Reviewed: January 23, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | manzanita @annadel | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | the bike peddler | | Strengths: | -great frame geometry
-frame weight and strength
-disc brakes
-tires are great for hardpack
-headset has held up well
-the rims are double-wall and have held up great
| | Weaknesses: | -Front and rear derailluers suck
-whole drivetrain sucks
-bars\stem\grips suck
-seat sucks
-fork is absolutely awful (MCU elastomer 75mm)
-pedals are junk
-shifter pods are plastic
-routing of cables on underside of top tube would not have been my first choice
| | Similar Products Used: | Banshee chapparal, schwinn moab w/xtr,giant xc full suspension | | Bike Setup: | 2004 yukon with ODI lock on grips, marzocchi EXR pro oil/coil front suspension, upgraded shimano crankset, enduro pro tires, shimano spd clipless, slightly better disc brakes (originals went in for warranty in the first month!)lizard skins chainslap guard | | Bottom Line: | I am really happy with this bike, sure it needs some serious mods to make it more trailworthy but all in all it is a really good bike for the price. What really matters anyway is the frame, and this bike has a great one, it is fairly lightweight, very strong, and has great geometry that allows for the bike to be ridden as cross country, or light downhill.
anyway it kicks ass so buy it!...but be prepared to drop a few hundred more into it to get a really good bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andi
a Cross Country Rider
from Berne, IN
Date Reviewed: November 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$415.00 | | Purchased At: | Hollinger Bicycles, Goshen, IN | | Strengths: | -Light, strong frame
-17 inch frame has great trailbike geo.
-Hayes disks are sweet, but avid would be better
-cranks are surprizingly stiff, another giant trademark
-tires are very nice, hook up very well
-fork is good for beginners
-giant grips are nice
-gussets are liquid formed | | Weaknesses: | -shifters/brakelevers suck
-low end drivetrain
-totally crappy bars | | Similar Products Used: | Marin Team Issue race bike/Full XTR
Kona Caldera | | Bike Setup: | Totally stock right now, accept with a Giant AC stem and new bars. | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks for the price. It makes a great cc bike, but also a great trailbike with certain modifications. Im a rider that has a trials background, and this bike is awesome. Wheelies and manuals are so fun on this machine. Make sure you drop some cash into new shifters, brake levers, bars, and you will be good to go for a long time. The fork is alright, good for beginners who dont know much about them, but if you know alot about forks this just doesnt work well with cc riding. Throw something nicer on there, and if you do more trailriding, a Phylo would be perfect. Alot stiffer too. The frame is absolutely beautiful, no canti tabs, sweet paint job, and the parts groupo' isnt bad concerning the price of the final product. This bike rocks for beginners, and advanced riders alike. For technical riding, its really quick too. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Henry Leaphart
a
from Clemson South Carolina
Date Reviewed: November 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Issaqueena | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike to Nature (lexington sc) | | Strengths: | Beautiful paint (powder coat black and blue), strong/light frame, powerful brakes (hayes disc), nice tires, great value! | | Weaknesses: | Giant downgraded some components (deore to alivio in rear)and manitou to sr suntour but i have never had a problem with the fork, i think its a great, firm XC fork but the adjustment doesnt seem to make a difference (big deal) | | Similar Products Used: | gary fisher advance and some walmart death traps | | Bike Setup: | XT rear derailleur, lizard skins chain gaurd and some toe clips (everything else is good) | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome, would recommend for anyone! i get complements frequently on campus. really sharp and handles trails great. It wouldnt hurt to upgrade the drive train ($35 XT rear derailleur at performance) and youre set. Giant all the way! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Hannon
a Cross Country Rider
from Anchorage, Alaska, United States
Date Reviewed: November 2, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$470.00 | | Purchased At: | Paramount Cycles | | Strengths: | Good frame, reliable gears, great brakes | | Weaknesses: | If the shocks get cold they totally freeze up and don't work. (I do live in Alaska...) | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Tarpon | | Bike Setup: | Factory except for chrome tire gauge caps :D | | Bottom Line: | If you like to go riding on the weekends or during the week on short 2-3 hour trips get this bike. The front suspension and disc brakes are perfect to keep you going on the trails. Haven't replaced a thing yet... Great for catwalking. GREAT BIKE FOR THE PRICE | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, Oregon
Date Reviewed: October 31, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$464.00 | | Strengths: | I am a really big guy, 6'10" 300lbs, and I have destroyed many a bike! I once spent $1000 on a "great bike" only to snap the little fella' literally in half. So I am fairly skeptical about purchasing bikes. The bottom line for any clydesdale rider I've learned is to buy for frame and frame alone. The frame on this bike is tremendous, I've put it through the ringer, and while the components have been replaced by XTR (to be expected), the frame is still whistlin' dixie. | | Weaknesses: | No weakness for a big rider b/c if you're big and a recreational rider you will not stress any shimano components that much to shred 'em in the first year, and as I mentioned earlier if you are a bit more aggro' you're gonna' shred 'em anyway so buy the bike for the frame. For smaller riders save your money and buy something already set up with nice components - it'll be cheaper in the long run (note: I have had no problems with the Suntour shock, it's really shocking...honestly!!) | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4500, raleigh m-80 | | Bike Setup: | XTR front an' rear derailleur, Oddysey triple trap pedals, Hell bent seat post, Hell bent DH bar, some cute stickers with smurfs and my little ponies...and about 20 reflectors on each wheel | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line is this bike is great if you are a big rider who wants a damn sturdy frame to build up, or if you are a big recreationalist who wants a nice bike to cruise the local bike paths and get some cardio. If you are under 6'4" and 230 -300 lbs then save up your money and buy the whole package (i.e. any well established mtn. bike company's $1200 - $1800 rig) so you can ride more aggressively without having to wait until you can replace those components you just mashed. Great bike, Giant has a nice product. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Ricano
a Weekend Warrior
from Mexico City
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Xinte Mexico | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | www.viansi.com | | Strengths: | great price for a recreational bike with disc brakes, light frame and exellent paint job (black),it's the best bike for begginers as i am | | Weaknesses: | i'd rather choose deore components, and manitu fork but for my first non wallmart bicycle i'm very glad | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4500 (sorry Lance, trek sucks) i will never buy a trek | | Bike Setup: | yukon 2004 with mechanical disc brakes | | Bottom Line: | Here in Mexico isn't easy to find the same price as in the US, but Giant is a exellent company and the quality for the price is the best, here the price for a trek 4500 without disc brakes is around $850 USD, it is ridiculus for a taiwan made frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimmy T
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta, ga
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Conyers | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike shop | | Strengths: | Great handling, Decent components. Tough frame. Rides great. | | Weaknesses: | Chain suck. When you get into wet mud the sucks up the front crank | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500, GT Avalanche, Gary Fisher. | | Bike Setup: | Tioga Tires, SID SL fork, shimano pedels | | Bottom Line: | Great bike BUT, you have to lose the fork change the tires and stay away from wet sandy mud. For the price it's outstanding. Sink a little extra money in it and you have a great weekend machine that can handle anything thrown at it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
M
a Cross Country Rider
from Fairfield, CT, USA
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$470.00 | | Strengths: | Solid Frame, Paint Job (Yellow/Gray),Hayes Disc Brakes | | Weaknesses: | The entire drive train is extremely poor. Everything needs to be replaced--cassette, deraulliers, crankset... Giant really used the most subpar components for this bike. The performance from the setup on this bike is very disappointing. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Iguana | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | At the shop the Bike looks good and the disc brakes are sweet. However, once you put the bike through any trail riding you realize that the bike does not shift well and after closer inspection the problem is not one component but the entire drivetrain is made of crap. The frame is extremely solid. If you are a real beginner this bike could be a good value for you. However, if you are serious about mtb you will have to replace many component parts to get this bike up to snuff. In retrospect I should have gone with the 2004 Giant Iguana or Rainer--unfortunately neither was in stock at the time of purchase. Although one may think they are saving a few sheckles by purchasing this bike in the end I am wondering if it is not better to build one's own bike from top to bottom or if the frame on this bike is worth the $470 I paid for it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joey
a Cross Country Rider
from Pennsylvania
Date Reviewed: September 26, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$420.00 | | Purchased At: | Weaver's bike shop | | Strengths: | Very light aluminum frame, the Black with blue stripes looks awesome. The disc brakes are low end, but stop me beter then any other v-brakes I tried. The tires are really good for dirt and gravel, but are quite noisy on the pavement. Oh and it's also got a nice comfortable seat | | Weaknesses: | the SR suntour isn't too bad, but it's pretty stiff and I can't get the pre-load adjustment to work. The Alivio rear derailluer isn't too great either, it often responds a little late, but I can easily upgrade that to an XT when it becomes intolerable. | | Similar Products Used: | Haro V3, 2000 Specialized Hardrock sport | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | For the begginner XC rider this bike is perfect. With some nice Hayes disc brakes and an awesome frame this is hard to beat. You will definently want to upgrade the fork and Dearailuers as you become more skilled. I'd definently take a look at this bike in the $400 range | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Weekend Warrior
from Jamaica, NY, United States
Date Reviewed: September 7, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Central Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$440.00 | | Purchased At: | Bellitte Bicycles | | Strengths: | Great Strengh and it's superlight, I love the front shock and oversized aluminum frame. Handles what you dish out and ask for more, suprisingly agile. | | Weaknesses: | The crankset is kinda noisy when riding around. The tires aren't made for the pavement and their noisy as well and will slow you down a steep decline even when you want more speed. | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose | | Bike Setup: | Suntour front shocks
25" Black matte frame color
Hayes disc brake
Shimano rapid fire shifter
Bontager Tires | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike, coming from traditional hardtails made of chromepoly to alum with a front shock especially thats one made in my size, 25" frame size, is a dream come true. Some guy said he broke his frame during jumps, I feel bad for you, but I'm 6'6" and 320, all muscle of course, ahah, and have taken Central Park by storm. I feel liberated. I was going to have a custom frame made for me, minimum $800.00 and more high parts put on for more aggressive trail riding, but instead I'm going to take a stock Giant Yukon frame 25" and add some more high end parts that can take the punishment. I know the frame can. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a Weekend Warrior
from michigan
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$460.00 | | Purchased At: | fraser cycle and fitness | | Strengths: | great bike for the money | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | rainer | | Bike Setup: | stock with the exception of the tires | | Bottom Line: | i would recommend this bike to anyone, i don't feel much of a difference from the rainier, except for the brakes. especially for casual riding | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil G
a Cross Country Rider
from Pequannock NJ
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Tourne Park or Ringwood | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Source!!!! | | Strengths: | Great all around bicycle. Strong enough to withstand my abusive riding style. | | Weaknesses: | If you slam rocks, rims dont stay true. (but, I cant afford rims that would). I snapped the Manitou fork. Keep in mind though, I ride technical stuff (HARD). | | Bottom Line: | Good bike. Worth the money!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Strengths: | The weight is very nice. Some Kona evquivalents are lighter, but don't handle as well. The fork is great for a XC or light jumper. With other than stock tires its also great on the road. Great components for the price. Deore is very nice. | | Weaknesses: | Forks won't hold up to long drops without stiffer springs. Front derailer is good, but you somtimes need to give it a little extra tension to shift. Stock tires are bad. Great off-road, but any pavement and their worn out in a month. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500(horrible, never buy trek), Kona Blast. Other various junk. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, just check the site. Gonna grab some semi-slicks. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the money. Only other bike company that comes close to value is Kona, but fram isn't as good. Buy it if your looking for a bike on a thin wallet. Get new tires. Also, rip those silly mud guards on the forks off. They rip in time and are tacky. Also, great paint job. Very Canadian sounding. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a
from Manitoba
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Olympia Cycle | | Strengths: | Components, weight, shock | | Weaknesses: | None that I could find to date | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 800 Sport | | Bike Setup: | Factory, 2" x 1.75 Axiom Archer tires | | Bottom Line: | This is my second mountain bike and I went from a Chevette to a Corvette. The $ value is incredible. I had never ridden a bike with a shock until now, but that has changed. I test drove the Giant Rincon and it was nice, but 1 model up and it is great. I havent had any problems with it. I would strongly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade. I also compared it with a Trek 4500 and the Giant kicked butt!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris rink
a Weekend Warrior
from troy michigan
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | stoney creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$430.00 | | Purchased At: | fraser bikes | | Strengths: | sturdy light frame,good starting hardware,and disc brakes are a plus | | Weaknesses: | transmission week | | Similar Products Used: | cannondale hardtail 1991 | | Bike Setup: | 17",with disc brakes'shimano 8 speed,front magniesium front suspension | | Bottom Line: | excellent bike to start out with for the money even for experienced riders.i'm happy! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dirk Westwood
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Winda Woppa | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$360.00 | | Purchased At: | Sydney Cyclery | | Strengths: | Sturdy Aluminium frame (6061 ALUXX FluidFormed), good derailieur system (Acera front, Deore rear) nice paint job (Satin Black) 2003 Spring model with Hayes front & rear discs. | | Weaknesses: | None at this stage | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose Rockadile SX front Shimano Deore disc, Hydraulic rear V-Brake sytem upgraded pedals, etc. Cheap bike, but with a nice strong steel frame) | | Bike Setup: | 2 X Hayes HMX-2 Discs, 6" rotors, Shimano derailieur system (24 speed) Rear: Deore Front: Acera Giant pedals, shimano crank set, Deore disc hubs. | | Bottom Line: | Seems to be a good all-round MTB, haven't fully broken her in yet, need to clock up a few more miles yet. You owe it to yourself to check out the latest Giant & Kona ranges - they really are good bikes.
The bike only get 3 chilli's cause I havent tested it's full capabilities. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary
a Weekend Warrior
from Frederick, MD, USA
Date Reviewed: August 6, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$456.00 | | Purchased At: | Under the Sun | | Strengths: | Seemingly strong frame, light weight, decent components, nice forks, cool to look at while sitting in the post-ride lawn chair, ...for the price | | Weaknesses: | I opted for the 19" frame (6'2", 205 lbs., 34" inseam); the bars are a little too low for me for street riding when the seat is properly adjusted. I'll need to make some changes... The stock tires are useless on anything more than smooth, flat, dirt trails. I'll be upgrading to something more aggressive. I had to adjust the front deraillieur - it was rubbing against the chain when the chain was on the outside gears in the rear. It's fine now. I'm still undecided about the seat -- I may swap to my old Vetta. | | Similar Products Used: | Ancient 1986 Raleigh Seneca until last Fall (literally and figuratively). Tried new Raleighs when I was shopping - seemed heavier, fork wasn't as nice (Judy), but had some nicer components (Diore). | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for my old favorite Sun Ringle pedals. The stock rim protectors will be jettisoned ASAP. I'll need to adjust the bars/gooseneck to fit me. | | Bottom Line: | My last bike was a dinosaur, so this bike seems like a dream. I adjusted the front deraillieur, so the bike runs quiet. The fork is fine for my weight and riding style. I have no gas with the disc brakes - they work fine. Components are average, but work for me. Great bike for average rider, but needs more aggressive tires for anything remotely serious. Tough to beat for the price -- I shopped around. I'd buy this bike again... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Becker
a Weekend Warrior
from Omaha, NE
Date Reviewed: August 4, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Swanson Park, Platte River State Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$430.00 | | Purchased At: | Olympia Cycle | | Strengths: | Frame strength, geometry, Deore rear. | | Weaknesses: | Tires, Manitou Six sport adjustments. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4000 series, GF Marlin, Raleigh M50/60, Specialized, just about anything else in this range. | | Bike Setup: | Stock so far. | | Bottom Line: | I spent several months in research, since this is the first bike I've purchased since getting rid of my childhood bmxers. I test rode every bike in town in a similar price bracket, plus several higher line bikes. When I tested the Yukon, it felt like I'd been riding it for years, that's what did it for me. Decent weight, it's no feather, but you don't feel like you're lugging a sack of bricks up a hill. Love the Deore rear, it's quiet, quick, and does exactly what it's supposed to do, no less, no more.
The Manitou Six Sport FS works well, but the preload adjustment doesn't really do a whole lot. I'm a fairly heavy rider though, (180) so perhaps it's that. I also agree with almost everyone else, the stock tires aren't gonna last very long at all, especially if you ride on-road, but, other than that, there's not a whole lot of things to fault on this bike. Very well put together package of components, and one of the best values out there in terms of price range. But don't take my word for it, get out there and ride one! This would make an excellent starting point for someone just getting back into the sport, I wouldn't recommend anything less. It's just not worth the risk of having to upgrade in a couple of months. Just make sure the bike fits you, and vice versa. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jared
a Weekend Warrior
from Auburn, NY USA
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Just about anything I can get my tires on! | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$419.00 | | Purchased At: | Geneva Bicycle Center | | Strengths: | This bike is light, and it accelerates good. The direct pull brakes have plenty of stopping power. The geometry of this bike gives a comfortable ride. The Manitou six sport forks handle bumpy trails well. | | Weaknesses: | none so far. | | Similar Products Used: | None, I went from the Toys-R-Us special bought 10 years ago to this. There's just no comparison! | | Bike Setup: | Stock except swapped Hutchison Mosquito tires for a slightly less aggressive tread. I had a cateye enduro 2 installed a month and a half later to keep track of distance and time. | | Bottom Line: | They make bicycles out of aluminum??!! This is a quality bike at a reasonable price for the beginner. A totally refreshing experience, unlike that i've ever known before. I have ridden well over 100 miles with this bike, and havn't noticed any problems. Most of the trails that I have ridden this bike on are crushed stone (Old Erie Canal trail), or rails to trails (Auburn-Fleming trail). The tire tread swap was neccessary because I do ride on paved surfaces, and the tread has a smoother center line of travel. I prefer to keep the tire pressure at 45 lbs., this keeps the ride a bit smoother. The Yukon is the first suspension bike that I have owned. It took me a while to get used to turning corners because the suspension gives a bit. I work alot, but always look forward to riding when the opportunity arises. I'll never shop at a chain store for another bicycle again. The Geneva Bicycle Center set me up right, and has the knowledge to take care of its customers bicycle needs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J Hunter
a Weekend Warrior
from Salinas, CA
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Nisene Marks, Aptos, CA | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$460.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bicycle Trip, Santa Cruz, CA | | Strengths: | Easy fork adjustment, mechanical discs, LIGHT, i like the black paint job. | | Weaknesses: | Alivio in back Accera in front, wish it was deore, you get what you pay for. The discs are mechanical, no stock prestas. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Tassajara | | Bike Setup: | etrex gps, presta valves | | Bottom Line: | i test road and, bnought it, and am picking it up manana. Rides very nice, wish it was deore. Brakes seem ok. im not used to the disc brake feeling, still need to adjust. It should make for a fun ride in the santa cruz area, and fort ord. IT IS Extremely light. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Billy L.
a Cross Country Rider
from Windsor Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Malden Park, still looking... | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$470.00 | | Purchased At: | B3 Detriot, prefer Fraser Schwinn | | Strengths: | Strong frame, very nice paint job and finishing. | | Weaknesses: | DH the bike don't act that well. Bike is too heavy. Frame is too heavy, 2003 model is way lighter. Comes with Hayes HMX-2 disc brake, but doesn't work that well, it ran of alignment all the time, needs to adjust all the time. Front derailleur doesn’t perform at all. Giant degrade the drive-trian components for 2003 Spring Collection model (2004 model). SR Suntour XC75 fork is too hard to ride on, don't offer hard/soft control, only 60mm actual travel. The SR Suntour crank don't match the bike at all, way too heavy, needs to upgrade right a way. If you are DH, you won't want the WTB Weirwolf tire, they don’t grab anything. That's about it, the bike is way too heavy for this price. | | Similar Products Used: | 1998 Specialized Rockhoper | | Bike Setup: | Since the bike is heavy i had to upgrade a lot of parts:
1. Crank (shimano LX with shimano BB)
2. Handlebar (titec)
3. Stem (titec)
4. Seat post (titec)
5. Front Derailleur (Shimao XT)
6. changing Manitou Black or Rock Shox Pilot
| | Bottom Line: | Giant built very nice frame, but for 2004 model is too heavy. They degrade all drive-train components to put in a Hayes disc brake, i prefer not, but add on weight. 2003 model has a Manitou Six Sport fork 3" travel, 2004 is a Suntour XC75 only 85mm travel (HEAVY), I prefer Manitou. You have to change your fork, if you can. This bike can handle some jumps, strong frame, but not for me. I'm 178cm and 147lbs. The stock stem and handlebar don't fit my body. This bike has very good climbing power, but dh....get another bike. I very disappointed with the 2004 Yukon. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a
from Orleans, Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Full Cycle | | Strengths: | Very lightweight, great frame, rims (look great!), excellent Manitou shock, precise feel, good value. | | Weaknesses: | Drivetrain (in my case anyways) | | Similar Products Used: | 99' Trek 800 | | Bike Setup: | 17" Manitou red. All Stock for now. | | Bottom Line: | A very good bike for the money. It is light and pretty quick. The handling of the bike is very good despite it's crappy fast-wearing tires (Mosquitos). I have drivetrain issues though (may be the way the dealer set mine up). My drivetrain makes lots of noise when pedaling, and squeaks alot as well (there is sufficient lube on it). It's embarassing passing other bikers etc and having such a noisy bike. Other then that, I haven't found any other weakness. Also, I adjusted the "plushness" on the fork and haven't noticed a difference either way. But it's a great shock so it is made up for. It's a good bike, make sure to get it from a bike shop that actually knows how to set it up right (unlike Full Cycle). I give it 5 flamming chilies for value and 4 flamming chilies overall as I feel the drivetrain issues are a tuning issue. Oh yeah, this report is after owning the bike for 5 weeks not three months. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, AZ
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | desert flats in TMP | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$410.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycles West | | Strengths: | Light and tight. Great handling. Easy riding. Great front shock. Excellent brakes | | Weaknesses: | None that seem significant | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh M80 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, manitou six sport, deore, shimano brakes | | Bottom Line: | Excellent bike for the price. My wife picked this out for her. Compared to my Raleigh M80, I like this bike better: it's lighter, the front shock is better than the Judy C on the M80, and it was less expensive too. Great value. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Woodbridge, VA
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Fountain Head | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$430.00 | | Purchased At: | Old Towne Bicycles | | Strengths: | The bike is really light, the fork works well, the seat is comfortable, and the overall ergonomics are really good. | | Weaknesses: | The stock tires (Hutchinson Mosquitos) SUCK, the tread wore off in no time
Buy replacement tires while you are at the store buying the bike because you will be back soon for new tires. | | Similar Products Used: | old Trek 800 | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | This is the perfect bike for the beginner/intermediate rider. The overall quality of the bike far outweighs the poor choice of stock tires. I highly recommend this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from Newark, Ohio, U S
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$360.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Doctor - Heath, Ohio | | Strengths: | This bike is very light for how large the frame is. It only weighs 27 lbs. It took me 40 minutes to ride to work on my Target bike. Now I can get there in 30 minutes. You can leave it in the hardest gear and fly up and down the hills. It's also very nice for grass and dirt. good brakes, very nice wheels and tires, nice index shifters, good breaks, very light! I took the front wheel off and it's like nothing to lift up and down. | | Weaknesses: | The front derailer rubbed the chain and it took the bike shop a few days to get it adjusted right. Other than that, I've had no problems. When the stock tires wear out, I may pick up some that have a little less road resistance (but it is a mountain bike and does get very good traction). | | Similar Products Used: | I had a $150 Target bike for 5 years. It doesn't even compare. | | Bike Setup: | all stock | | Bottom Line: | I've had this bike for a little over a month. If I could do it all over again, I would definitely buy this bike. I got the all black version and it looks sweeeeeet!. I did a lot of research online and offline and my local dealer gave me 10% off because it was a special order. If you're thinking about getting a cheaper Giant, don't do it. This one is awesome. If you need a bike for transportation or for fun this is it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Joseph, MI, USA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$409.00 | | Purchased At: | Albrights Cycling & Fitness - South Bend | | Strengths: | Good value, Nice paint job (Black), I like the grips, Micro lube ports to lube forks. | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | old Giant Sedona | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | After a little more than 100 miles, no problems so far on a mix of city streets and trails. I am very satisfied with the performance. Much lighter than my 13 year old MB. This is a nice bike for the casual MBer who doesn't want to shell out big $$ but wants something more than a discount store bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
johnny persons
a Weekend Warrior
from houston tx
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | planetary bikes | | Strengths: | THE BEST VALUE - for this price you wont get anything better in terms of value - the deore rear, the lightweight db frame...just excellent | | Weaknesses: | the cranks are house brand, the manitou is kinda mushy and makes clonking noises | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4500, specialized hardrock comp, haro ics 4.. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | excellent value. of course - giant is the largest frame maker in the world. very nice paint and graphics - much better than you will find on comparable specs or treks...if you care about that sort of thing... just be sure to test ride the trek 4500 - it feels similar, some will like it better. the geometry on this giant feels somewhat awkward on steep dh. the long stem makes you reach further than other similar sized bikes...when you lean back you have to really stretch to stay on...but like i said...has some great things going for it... a good shock absorbing light frame. and deore in the back... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben marouchi
a Weekend Warrior
from Compton, CA USA
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | N/A | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$467.00 | | Purchased At: | N/A | | Strengths: | Very lightweight! A nice strong feel. IT rides ok on the street , which is where I ride. It sure is fast enough to get away from gang members! | | Weaknesses: | None yet! | | Similar Products Used: | trek 8300 | | Bike Setup: | I haven't changed nothin! | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great for the people who want to ride on dirt and have fun, or even chill in the ghetto! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jack
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | all of em | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$420.00 | | Purchased At: | sporting life | | Strengths: | Everything. Super light frame, great deore rear deraileur, acera front deraileur, manitou 6sport shock. Did I mention LIGHT. great for high speeds and for climbing. | | Weaknesses: | none found yet. I popped the rear tire on my second ride but that was my fault not the bike's. | | Similar Products Used: | norco woleverine
trek 4500
gary fisher wahoo
pay the extra money for this bike it is well worth it
| | Bike Setup: | stock with added topeak front and rear fenders | | Bottom Line: | there is no bike on the market with as many quality components as this one. Great for beginner riders with higher aspirations. Easy to upgrade due to high quality frame. Don't be suckered in with hayes mechanical disk brakes on other models, they are not that good. closest competitor is either the trek and the gary fisher and both are cheaper but of lower quality. Affordable too. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a
from Arlington, VA
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$410.00 | | Purchased At: | Olde Towne Bicycles | | Strengths: | Super-light, tough frame, decent components | | Weaknesses: | Grips slip off | | Bottom Line: | As I learn more about MTBs, I learn that this bike should not be as good as it is for the price. It has taken a lot of punishment but nothing has broken. I am a light rider, 150lbs, but this bike is still rock solid and I reccomend it to anyone getting started or wanting a step up from K-Mart for not a billion dollars. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jesse carta
a Downhiller
from cromwell
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | cromwell creek 187 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$420.00 | | Purchased At: | pedal power | | Strengths: | good strong bike.i like it, and the paint job and colors look cool(i have the black one). | | Weaknesses: | a couple weeks a go i dropped off of a 5ft. loading dock to flat, so the left crank arm came loose and i tightened it but then the BB started making creaking noises when i pedaled, also the the left fork seal popped out so i brought the bike to LBS and they fixed everything. | | Similar Products Used: | kona stab primo, clifcat tankass, clifcat tank DH, Norco hardtail, diamondback response, trek 4500. | | Bike Setup: | 2003 black giant yukon 17" frame, billet aluminum anodized red valve caps, dk iron cross pedals, maxxis mobster 2.35" super tacky in the back, and a 2.75" tube in the mobster, also had my pedal power convert the travel of the manitou six sport fork to 4" of travel, it only cost me $5. | | Bottom Line: | the maxxis mobster totally changes the way the bike feels along with the iron cross pedals and the 4" travel fork. now my bike doesnt get any more pinch flats because of the tire and tube, and now i can put the preload all the way soft and not bottom the fork out, my bike feels more like a down hill bike now,the pedals also look and grip way better than my old ones, i've been jumping 5 stairs, 15ft gaps, 5ft loading docks, dirt jumps etc. and the bike has held up well.i love the bike and am going to upgrade it even more when i get some more money. overall it is a great bike and i highly recommend it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Laudahl
a Racer
from Mankato, MN
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Sakata singing hills, red jacket, bmx track | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$409.00 | | Purchased At: | get your gear | | Strengths: | from what i saw when i rode it for a test ride it seemed
to handle like a champ the top tube seemed a little short but im sure ill get used to it when i get it im going to put a down payment on it in a few weeks im pretty happy about it i was going to get a specialized rockhopper but it was a little out of my price range that bike ronded out to be about 570.00 i thought i should go with the giant yukon and i love the paint job, and another thing i didnt really care about the paint job on the rockhopper all the chioces are were blue and black and/or burnt orange and black and no detailing on it whatsoever and this has alot of it i took a really sharp corner with it and it did it excellently i also like the brakes, it brakes smoothly i like it alot. | | Weaknesses: | noyin that i can see i you want to tell me whatother weaknesses that i probably dont know about you can e-mail me at frisky0087@aol.com | | Similar Products Used: | magna's, diamondback sorrento | | Bike Setup: | -24 speed
-17 inch frame size
-red,white,black colors
front derailer- shimano alivio
rear derailer- shimano deore 3/4 inch rise bar
-aluxx aluminum
-clipless pedals
-giant 3-piece crank
-1.75 inch tires
- 3 bottle cage holers | | Bottom Line: | it is a very nice bike from what i can see love it totallllllyyy. i think it would handle alot of crap so i would preffer it to all kind of ridings from cross-country to major off-roading | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andrey meiler
a Weekend Warrior
from israel,ashdod
Date Reviewed: April 15, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | rm-7 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$435.00 | | Purchased At: | yakir bikes | | Strengths: | it is avery light bike. it is easy for controll and you are having fun while you riding crosscountry | | Weaknesses: | i broke the frame twice wwhile jumping 2 feet ( i usualy droppin and jumping 4-5feet) and my alivio broke after 3 monthes. its the worst bike i have ever hade. and my two friends had the same bike and broke the frame too. | | Bottom Line: | its the worst bike ever don't buy it if you want to jump some times | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KEVIN
a Weekend Warrior
from NORTH SHORE, MASSACHUSETTS
Date Reviewed: April 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$430.00 | | Purchased At: | Exeter Cycles | | Strengths: | LIGHTWEIGHT, AWESOME PAINT, SMOOTH SHIFTING, CAN CLIMB ANY HILL, MANITOU SHOCK, GREAT COMPONENTS | | Weaknesses: | N/A | | Similar Products Used: | GARY FISHER MARLIN, SPECIALIZED HARDROCK PRO | | Bike Setup: | STOCK | | Bottom Line: | COMFORTABLE, EASY TO RIDE, A GREAT BIKE FOR THE MONEY. GREAT FOR THE BEGINNER, LIKE MYSELF. CAN TAKE THE BUMPS LIKE A CHAMP. THE BIKE WILL PROBABLY TAKE A BEATING BETTER THAN MY BODY. I TOTALLY RECOMMEND THIS BIKE. I DOUBT YOU CAN FIND BETTER FOR THE MONEY | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jesse carta
a Weekend Warrior
from cromwell
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | cromwell creek 187 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$420.00 | | Purchased At: | Pedal Power CT | | Strengths: | VERY light, decsent fork, strong frame,BUT..... my favorite part of this bike is the seat, it is so amazingly soft, it almost feel like a dual suspension cause of the seat. | | Weaknesses: | the rims bent a little, but it is probably my fault cause i like to freeride (big drops, jumps, etc.). barkes wore down quickly and rubbed the rims which is annoying.manitou six sport fork is plush, but after a ride it will become very stiff for some reason. | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | stock, except for billet aluminum red valve caps. | | Bottom Line: | this bike is a great value and good all round bike. it can take a freeride beating and climb any hill. i've done 3ft drops with it, dirt jumps, XC, and 10 foot gaps. super light weight, great seat, great shifters, fork, etc. everything on this bike is good. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alister Yukon-Mania
a Weekend Warrior
from Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Youngtown Reserve, Duck Reach powerstation(Gorge) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Geard's Cycles | | Strengths: | It weighs about as much as a fart in a pickle-jar!Seriously this beast is the lightest MTB I have ever ridden! Frame is amazingly rigid and will stand up to practicly anything. All componentry is 'A' class-will last an eternity. Shock is marvelous but needs more travell, it says in the manual that you can convert to 100ml, bike shop says you can't! Who do you believe? Great grip, huge air, massive speeds - all there! Composite yolk a nice touch and Silver/Red paintwork looks stunning. This bike has the 'looks' and the 'go' whichever one you're after. | | Weaknesses: | Huchinson Mosquito tires are bald on the back because I ride to school almost every day (Gr.10). If you read the product review you'll realise they are no good for on road. Front end was a bit loose when I got it and the yolk seal broke;that was fixed for free though. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500 (dodgy compared to giants) Ricardo Mondo (crap) | | Bike Setup: | Ranier race seat and i'm going to get a set of Huchinson Octopus tires and maybe shimano SPD M505 clipless pedals, not sure though.... | | Bottom Line: | So good i've dubbed mine the 'Megga-Beast'. Best MTB you can get for this money, no disapointments what-so-ever!
BEST EVER!!!!!!!!
Buy one, especially if you live in 'Lonny', because there isn't any clubs here and we need one,Badly!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mahlie
a Weekend Warrior
from Vereeniging, South Africa
Date Reviewed: February 6, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Johnsons Cycle Works (Jhb, SA) | | Strengths: | Definitely the weight!
Also looks, price (in SA) and parts. (Especially shifters for acceleration) | | Weaknesses: | Can't say I've noticed any. | | Bike Setup: | Shimano SPD Pedals, Sigma Targa computer | | Bottom Line: | Great bike! After investigating the options available down here, and comparing import prices, I knew this was the bike for me. Great fun for serious off road cycling, as well as a relaxing 5km (3 mile) cylce around the neighbourhood.
My bike has the Oz paint job, which is red and silver, this is really FUNKY. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Florida Newbie
a Weekend Warrior
from Pensacola
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$410.00 | | Purchased At: | Truly Spokin | | Strengths: | Light weight, sturdy construction. Smooth shifts. I LOVE THIS BIKE! Price isn't bad. | | Weaknesses: | None at all. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek (5 years ago) | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | So far, I am extremely pleased with this bike. I bought two of them - one for my wife and one for me. Absolutely no complaints about the bike. I raced a Giant road bike about 14 years ago. My past experience with Giant is what prompted my decision to stick with them for this purchase. They really do make a quality product, and they wont make you blow your kid's college fund to get it. I'm a newbie when it comes to mountain bikes, and I think the bike is great. My wife is more experienced at mountain biking and she loves the bike also. I would say the bike is good for entry level riders to advanced/intermediate level riders. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
hazman
a Weekend Warrior
from Hobart, Tasmania
Date Reviewed: January 18, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | XC, singletrack and fire trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | McBain Cycles, Hobart | | Strengths: | The Manitou fork was what really impressed me, and the deore reaer derailleur. Also the Hucthinson tires are great, but wear ather quickly! | | Weaknesses: | The grips have worn very quickly, i thought the seat was a pain in the ass, but its not too bad now. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Rincon '00 | | Bike Setup: | Added bar ends, cateye computer, koolstop thinline pads | | Bottom Line: | It's a great bike that replaced my Giant Rincon when it was stolen, i love the manitou fork, about to dial it out to 100mm travel. Thanks to mcbain cycles in hobart tasmania, for being so great! and giving me a bit of a discount coz my other bike was stolen!
Ride On! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a
from CT
Date Reviewed: January 15, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Mansfield Hollow | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$410.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Escape | | Strengths: | It is very light in weight and has very good climbing ability. It also has very smooth shifting and great components. | | Weaknesses: | No back disc Brake adapter | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Six 80-100mm, Deore r., Acera f., Hutchinson Mosquitoe tires | | Bottom Line: | I was looking for a quality, full sized bike that would replace my older one which did not have suspension. I found that the best value for my budget (around $400) was the Yukon. I thought that when I got this bike that I would have to upgrade however it has been so good that I am afraid to change anything. The fork is nice because it changes travel. However let your bike shop change the travel because you might strip the bolt. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle Seigler
a Weekend Warrior
from Aiken, South Carolina, U.S.
Date Reviewed: January 7, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | ----- | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Andy Jordan's | | Strengths: | -the frame is only 30 pounds
-very durable
-rides smooth
-climbs great due to its light weight and low gears
-only needs one upgrade-clipless pedals
-a great bike to ride for fun or race
-good components
-Mantinou fork | | Weaknesses: | n/a | | Similar Products Used: | cheap bikes from Wal-Mart (Mongoose, Free Spirit, ...) | | Bike Setup: | Standard componentry except for clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | This bike is everything one could possibly want in a hardtail. It would make a good fun bike as well as a cross-country race bike. It doesn't even need any upgrades (other than clipless pedals, of course). It climbs like a goat and still has those high gears to easily push 35-40 mph! This bike is strong and durable enough for me (190 lbs.) and is still very lightweight. No flexing, squeaking, or signs of poor quality can be found anywhere! It even looks good. I am glad I hit the jackpot with my first real bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ian
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, WA, Australia
Date Reviewed: December 16, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$370.00 | | Purchased At: | Georges Bikes | | Strengths: | - For the price, its a great starter hardtail bike with good components
- Light Oversized Frame
- Manitou Forks | | Weaknesses: | Parts of the pedals are made of some tough moulded plastic,
Probably be replacing them soon though. | | Similar Products Used: | K-mart bike that weighed a ton. | | Bike Setup: | Standard Yukon 2003 | | Bottom Line: | The price is right with this bike, along with the performance. I researched for over a month and this bike was the best my money could buy. It had a great setup and decent components making it well worth its price. Ideally a beginners/recreational bike, its well constructed and did I mention its light? This bike is lighter than one would expect from its appearance which is all good. Its built to quality.
Half a year later, I'm still happy with my decision of buying a Yukon. I recommend this bike to anyone starting out looking for a hardtail bike, You won't be dissapointed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
travis
a Cross Country Rider
from odessa
Date Reviewed: November 24, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | peytons bikes | | Strengths: | it rides pretty smooth
mine came with nice tires
i like the red and white paint job | | Weaknesses: | the grips suck and are gay!
i hate the stupid seat! | | Bike Setup: | red and white frame
mosquito tires
manitou forx | | Bottom Line: | its agreat bike if you change the seat and the fricking grips!!!!its great for just abut all people as long as your not just starting out
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Carr
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: November 18, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Strengths: | Absolutely Brilliant for the money ...
Light
Functional
Nice geometry
Good parts for the px range | | Weaknesses: | Nothin at this px | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, kona etc etc | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Great performer at an price that is eye-popping.
Trust Giant to up the ante on the value segment.
If you are looking for a bike below $1000, this is it!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
iceman hill climber
a Weekend Warrior
from Idaho falls ID
Date Reviewed: November 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | red fish | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$415.00 | | Purchased At: | lounger's | | Strengths: | the bike climb's like it is climbing a ladder, you necer have to stop and walk it, witch is how i like to ride, the bike has an extra large frame, now when i say extra large you probably think that it will be heavy. WRONG! the bike is so light it is light as my breif case that i pack to work. this bike is the ultamite bike | | Weaknesses: | none so far, i take it out every day i can get to go ridin wich is about 2-3 days, sence i'm a pilot at the airport my days of varie. | | Similar Products Used: | trek-6k | | Bike Setup: | manitou shocks are what really stands out. nice light frame, and tons more great components | | Bottom Line: | if you want a bike that you take out every weekend and not have problems, just pull it out and ride type of bike that has no problems, if you havent been convinced of my post's so far then trust me here, this bike is all that! ive never had to fix any of the components nor replace or have any thing go wrong. i did though change the peddals to clip-in specialized peddals and use specialized mountian shoes. this bike is so far the best bike ive rode, ive been trying to save about 5k to get the specialized Big Hit but, riding this bike, i think i will spend the money on something else. overall this bike is a great bike, it rides over trees, roots,across sand, through water great! the knobby tires are an excelent thing to have also, the bike on stock is equiped with the knobby tires witch will climb, or go acorss, and through things great, the money is also a very great feature that is a big extra point | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rider mountian
a Weekend Warrior
from idaho
Date Reviewed: November 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Red fish | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | rider lobby | | Strengths: | the manitou forks, what there to say, they just plainly kick A$$!!!!the bike climbs hills, crosses logs like it its nohting.the bike is extremely light so dont worry about fallen trees that you cant ride over,you lift it over, the bike is so light! | | Weaknesses: | if you find one you tell me, ive rode it for a year and havent found a reason yet!
| | Similar Products Used: | trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | mabituo six sport forks,supersized ALUXX butted frame,mtn knobby w/center ridge tires | | Bottom Line: | if you want a bike that you get goosebumps on your arm riding it this is the one, this bike climbs,hopps anything thing in its path, its like it has a mind of its own,so if you get this bike you sure as hell wont go wrong, money spent wisely! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a Weekend Warrior
from Oak Lawn, IL, U.S.
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Maple Lake and Swallow Cliff | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$434.00 | | Purchased At: | Orland Park Cyclery | | Strengths: | -All around tough
-Great components and frame for the money
-Oversized frame
-Comes in black
-Extremely light | | Weaknesses: | -I got a flat tire the first ride | | Similar Products Used: | -trek 4500
-Fuji Thrill Se
-Giant Rincon | | Bike Setup: | -Mantiou Fork
-Shimano Deore rear derailer
-Shimano Acera front derailer
-Giant crank, and stem
-Shimano easy fire shifters/brake levers
7000 series aluminium frame | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line... It kicks A$$! If you want a light hardtail, love to ride the trails, and don't have too much cash, this bike is for you. You can't go wrong w/ this bike! The day after I picked it up from the shop, I went to a local trail. I rolled over fallen trees with ease. Roots were no problem... Damn thorns... Over all, the bike is totaly worth it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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