Submitted by
sling
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: November 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anderson Truck Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3050.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse
Strengths:
New Frame design saves alot of weight, Fork, Shock and Wheels
Weaknesses:
SEATPOST is CRAP, wouldnt stay tight on the seat. Would be nice to have X9 shifters instead of X7. Chain tensioner is really noisey.
Similar Products Used:
GT Force, Kona Coiler, Older Reign X1
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla 36r FiT, DHX RC2, DT Swiss EX500's
Bottom Line:
This bike is just plain badass! I needed the one do it all bike and this is it. It absolutly flys downhill handles drops and jumps like a full downhill rig and is light enough to use on long XC rides. This bike gives you loads of confidence going into gnarly rock gardens and lets you just float over just about anything. The only thing I would take over the X1 would be an UZZI but for $2000 less, you cant beat it. If you dont mind lagging behind on the climbs and flying past your buddies on the downs, this would be a great bike for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ismack
a Downhiller
from Atown, OR, US of A Date Reviewed: November 6, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
(2008 model) This bike makes you want to ride a lot. Corners very well. Good on jumps. Feels very in control at high speeds and on steep technical terrain. No brake jack. Climbs reasonably well. The frame seems very strong and the welds look a whole lot better than many other more expensive bikes(i.e. Commencal, Santa Cruz, Intense). Now about components. The Fox 36 VanR fork is not perfect, but is by far the best fork I have ridden. It is very good at small bump sensitivity and yet I rarely bottom it out. The shifters and Sram X9 derailleur work great. The Hayes Stroker Trails work good after some upgrades. The wheelset is a cheep one but is holding up just fine and isn't very heavy, just make sure you tighten the spokes after you ride for a bit.
Weaknesses:
The Race Face cranks keep coming loose even with locktight. Also the spacers on the cranks compressed and had to add two new ones. The chain guide kept moving as well, not sure why the chain guide didn't use the iscg mounts, I ended up drilling some holes. The stock headset is awful, started creaking and clunking after a month of riding. Replaced it with one that had sealed bearings. The Fox fork is great but the spring does slap the inside of the stanchion and rubbed a bit, so I flipped the spring and added a bit of extra oil to that leg. The tires and tubes are a joke. The lightweight Nevgals and lightweight tubes belong on an xc bike. I probably had 15 pinchflats in the first month of riding. The brakes are exceptionally noisy, fixed with any other pads than the stock sintered metallic ones.
You have to stay in the 36ring if standing, otherwise you do get a crazy bob going(The suspension design seems to like the 36ring).
Similar Products Used:
Tanks and hardtails.
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock so far. Running a 2.3 WTB Timberwolf up front for the winter and a Dissent in the rear. Added some NS Ariel pedals and sealed headset. Moved the 7 in rotor to the back and put a 8 in up front. Plan on getting a different crankset and adding some bling when I get money.
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome. I love it and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a versatile bike. I chose this bike because I needed a bike that I could shuttle and one that I could ride up some hills. I like to jump my bike, and ride some fast singletrack. This bike does all these things well. Some of the components are very lacking, but if you can get a good deal on the bike you won't regret it. Ride it until the cheap parts act up and then replace them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
geoff b
a Downhiller
from Louisville Ky Date Reviewed: November 2, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Fort duffield
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
new on ebay
Strengths:
Good components for the $, climbs ok, very comfortable at speed, jumps well,
Weaknesses:
THE DOWN TUBE, fox 36, needs adjustable seat post to be the bike it is,mine came with juicy 5 brakes that faded badly at snowshoe mtb park
Bike Setup:
all stock 210 pound spring in fork and 550 pound in the rear oh and x9 rear shifter
Bottom Line:
I rode this bike for a year and was very happy until the down tube cracked for no apparent reason. I was just riding a mildly tech trail. giant would not warranty it since I bought it online and didnt have a sales receipt from a giant dealer. I weigh 190 and the fox 36 bottoms on any drop over 4 ft. I live in ky so it is important that it get me to the hill and be fun on the ride down. It will climb just very slowly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drewski
a Downhiller
from San Luis Obispo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Northfork, Dirt Merchant, A-Line
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
Low center of gravity, good top tube clearance, excellent climber in the saddle, great small bump sensitivity if suspension is dialed, can handle almost any size jump, drop, gap, does pretty well in the DJ park if you've got a travel adjust on the fork,... great all around bike! Meastro suspension works very well.
Weaknesses:
Pivots suck (I've had to replace mine too often), lateral flex in the rear end, pierced downtube, integrated headset, problems 1/4 bash guards, customer service sucks at Giant.
Good bike if you're an all around rider spending most of your time on aggressive trail. If you're riding lift access a lot, this is not your bike, you will destroy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slo_rider
a Weekend Warrior
from moved from ca coast to sierras Date Reviewed: August 8, 2009
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
'08 used frame onlin
Strengths:
geometry, plushness, efficiency. welds look surprisingly good. anodized finish is holding up very well.
Weaknesses:
none yet. but i bought this after muckling my neck & spinal cord so i no longer catch air and can't comment on frames' huckability
all parts pulled off nom@d, except '08 66 SL/ATA fork and oldschool vanilla rc coil (platform?!--maestro don't got to run no stinkin platform!). adj travel/geo 66 ATA fork and 2 wheelsets (heavy dh & lighter am wheels) maximize frame's versatility.
Bottom Line:
i've owned and ridden the snot out of the bikes listed above, and although giant doesn't have the same valued reputation as sc or vent@na, the reign x has consistently performed better for me than those other great bikes. i dunno why, and i don't really care either--i thought i loved my nom@d, but i sold it to buy the giant after riding my bro's reign x on some of my favorite trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
redlineracer
a Weekend Warrior
from Syracuse,NY Date Reviewed: July 31, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Giant Bicycles/Syrac
Strengths:
Strong, excellent value, decent parts, versatile
Weaknesses:
Some components are little to low end for this mid range bike (wheel set, cranks, seat post) and the springs are way to light for my weight. The Fox 36 Vanilla R fork is a disappointment, I have the heaviest (yellow) spring that Fox sells and it still bottoms out over just about everything. Plush for the trail, but not up to the freeride stuff.
Similar Products Used:
My last bike a 03 Santa Cruz Bullit
Bike Setup:
small frame for my 5'6" height, 450 rear spring and fox's heaviest front spring
Bottom Line:
Overall a great bike for the money. I ride it as a trail bike and it has been to the mountain (Diablo) as well. I was able to purchase from Giant as a bike shop employee and that made it an even better deal. With some parts changes this could easily be a decently light, heavy duty trail bike or a down hill sled. As it is, it is a decent all around bike. The Maestro suspension does a good job, doesn't seem to brake jack like my Bullit, just wish the Fox fork was more up to task that this bike was designed for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JuanValdeez
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR USA Date Reviewed: June 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Glade Trail Mt. HooD
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2199.00
Purchased At:
Bike Peddlar Salem O
Strengths:
Strong Componets for the $$, Great Ride downhill and up, Excellent looks, sweet suspension, silky ride and decent climbing capabilities. I'm in love with this bike after a ride down Mary's peak back up and down the back side trail.
Weaknesses:
I'm biased but for the $$ I can't see any. It's a downhill bike so if you wanna whine about something I guess it could weigh less??
Similar Products Used:
Kona, YETI,
Bike Setup:
All Mtn.
Bottom Line:
THis bike is SICK!! Get one quick. I tried to find an 08 since they were advertised all over the internet for 1800-2000 but they were all gone!! I did a bit of researching and for my money I got strong advisories to hit up this bike. I own a GIANT HT and I loved it. So I decided to step up and take the all mounatin/DH plunge and it was worth it. Don't hesitate. If you can't get your 08 get the 09 and don't pay any more than 2500 for it. Look around and if you're willing to travel a little bit for it you can find one for that price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
whistlerrocks
a Downhiller
from Whistler Date Reviewed: May 26, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Whistler Downhill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Dunbar cycles
Strengths:
Everything! Just got a 09 Fox dhx air 5.0 installed and am really enjoying it. I could never get the smooth, plush bottomless feel on the dhx 3.0 coil. Really smooth and nimble bike and very versatile cause I can take it to whistler and do all the downhill courses and pump up the rear shock and hit up the boneyard. And the strong may look skinny in some spots but it is actually stronger than most downhill bikes I have ridden.
Weaknesses:
Nothing
Similar Products Used:
nothing really except the Reign X0
Bike Setup:
Giant Reign X1, Avid Elixir CR's 8/7 inch rotors, Sunline V-one bars, Fox dhx air 5.0, Raceface atlas fr in purple, E13 SRS+ in white, new wheelset, Sram X-0 components, Fox Vanilla 36 fork, Sunline V-one DH stem, Maxxis Minion 3C
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks and is insanely versatile! I can ride up whistler and do all the XC, all mountain stuff adn still rip up downhill which is my favourite part. The bike is really strong and my confidence shot up as soon as I sat on it. The bike has definitely saved me from some narly sections at the north shore and whistler.
Totaly worth the money so if your interested don't think about it just buy one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan
a Downhiller
from Kamloops, BC Date Reviewed: March 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Dirt Merchant
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Frame is light and strong. Fox 36 does a good job up front matched with the DHX on the back. Juicy 5's were a good spec over something like Hayes 9.
I used this bike all year downhilling hoping it was going to be enough without going up to a glory fr. It handles everything, Kamloops senders, sunpeaks, all the trails in Whistler. I never had any problems with the frame itself. It's light enough to climb if you want that too. My bike is built for downhilling and jumping and weighs 35lbs and I feel its the perfect weight.
The stock wheels are not the best, but not that bad. The stock tires on the other hand were just awful. Maybe as a light am/xc tire they would be alright but I flatted at least 10 time Dhing on the Hutchinsons. Since the start of summer I have been running a rear t-wolf front nevegal setup and have never flatted and have tons of grip in all conditions.
The reign x is definatley a solid bike if you want a lighter bike to downhill and jump on or are a bit lighter. Even climbs well if you want an AM bike and are looking for something more than a reign. The lifetime frame warranty is good too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
burningsnowaz
a Weekend Warrior
from Gilbert, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: March 18, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Craigslist
Strengths:
Too many to name - suspension is plush. Bike is bullet proof. Stock components are great for the price. This bike gives me confidence to try things I haven't tried before.
Weaknesses:
I think the stock wheelset is pretty weak. Getting ready to upgrade that now. Bottom bracket seems a little low - I bottom out more than I used to.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing similar to this! Last bike was a Jamis Dakar
Bike Setup:
2007 Giant Reign X1 - OEM except pedals.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is this is a great choice for the versatile rider. If you find yourself riding a 24 mile cross country ride on Saturday and then bombing a killer downhill on Sunday, this is the bike for you! No matter what the terrain, I feel confident on my Giant. Incredible at eating up 3 - 4 ft drops and rock gardens. Can't wait to see what it can do on 8 - 10 foot drops when I get up the nerve to try them.
Couldn't be more happy with my purchase. Excited to upgrade the wheelset but other than that I am still stoked on my purchase 7 months after my first ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daveooo
a Weekend Warrior
from Glastonbury, Somerset, UK Date Reviewed: March 12, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Zero G, Bristol
Strengths:
Fun.
Frame, all round use, price, easiy (basic) shock needing no real set up still giving a great ride (I still haven't twiddled with it!)
Weaknesses:
Brakes are not up to the DH ability of the bike, bars seem a little light weight (more xc than all mountain), I don't expect the wheels to last particularly long. boring colour!
Similar Products Used:
none, brief ride on a Scott Ransom.
Bike Setup:
Stock except single ring with E13 guide and bash ring, Spank - Royal Bars & Crank Bros 50/50 xx pedals
Bottom Line:
My 1st full suss after riding various hardtails for 10 years plus.
I wanted a downhill bike that could be riden back to the top again or hammered dh/jumped/drop offs during a xc loop (if you get me!) not an enduro that can dh a bit (like the fasion seems to be at the moment). I have done plenty of 10ft ish drops on it with out a whimper, reasonable size doubles easily (not as easily as a hardtail, but very good), it certainly ain't a xc bike but it rides perfectly well for a 7" and gives so much confidence when dh/jumping.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Con-Air
a Weekend Warrior
from Essex, England Date Reviewed: January 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Danbury Jumps
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Local Dealer
Strengths:
This bike is the nutz!! Corners fast, pops well, flys like a plane, soaks up most dodgy landings, light enough for trails and climbing, defo a do it all machine. If you only ever buy one bike buy this one!! Love the forks, just set up and forget about it-it will never let you down, same goes for the shock.
Weaknesses:
None other than it threw me!! Maybe you shouldnt go big air hunting in the wet, i dunno, all i do know is i aint had any serious air for 2 months as i broke my collar bone and dislocated my shoulder, but i cant hold that against the bike-just glad i didnt break that!! Stock seats too hard!!
Similar Products Used:
Came straight from a Saracen Mantra hardtail cos me mates got full sussers (specialized enduro carbon and Kona Coiler) and i didnt wanna get left behind...
Bike Setup:
Stock '08 spec but with Halo freedoms, Lizard skin Peaty lock-ons, HOPE LED, XT crank and Blackspire chain device, oh and the old seat off the Saracen-stock one is HARD,
Bottom Line:
First time i rode this was at Aston Hill in the wet, which was when i realised the seat only goes down about 2" unless you cut the post down-makes DH interesting when you cant hover over the back wheel, easily solved just didnt have a saw with me that day....
The parts i changed were just preference, i didnt dislike any of the stock bits except the crappy seat which i rode for miles thinkin it may soften up-dont bother-it wont!!
Havent rode many full sussers but this bad boy felt right straight out of the box and has never failed to put a smile on my face, even after breaking me!!
If you stack it a lot your gonna go thru hangers regular...
Bottom line is love it and cant wait to heal up fully and get back to puttin it thru its paces!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lazyscranton92
a Weekend Warrior
from Date Reviewed: December 26, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Very light overall, awesome bang-for-buck, strong frame, maestro suspension, fun to ride.
Weaknesses:
Brakes suck, doesn't come with pedals...
Similar Products Used:
Giant Reign X2, Iron Horse 7-point,
Bike Setup:
2008 Giant Reign X1 stock, except for the pedals.
Bottom Line:
This is an all-around amazing bike. It does downhill, freeriding, slopestyle, trail riding, and I even brought it to the local dirt jumps. It's light enough to ride up hills, and to ride around town.
This bike is for those who want a bike where you get a lot of bike for a relatively small amount of money. If you do anything with requiring climbing, and do the downhill as well, get this bike.
The maestro suspension is amazing. It simply cannot be beat by any other suspension system on the market.
The other thing about this bike that is nice is that you can set it up to make it almost any kind of bike you want. It can be a light downhill, freeride, slopestyle, and even an aggressive trail bike.
I was kind of in doubt about what kind of bike that would suit my needs, and I've found that this bike is perfect (except for the brakes, they are not good).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Twopin
a Downhiller
from Sudbury, Ontario Date Reviewed: December 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Shot Glass
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Cycle works
Strengths:
Nimble, can be light if built that way, good handling, great in the air, rear suspension is awesome
Weaknesses:
Integrated headset, rather low bb
Similar Products Used:
Transition dirtbag, Kona Stinky
Bike Setup:
DHX 3, 36 Van R, 203mm Codes F/R, E-13 SRS, Hadley/Mavic 729 wheelset, TBC Stem, Race Face Diablous bars and Ride cranks, Maxxis minions, Sram PG-990 Cassette PC 971 chain, WTB Power V saddle, ODI lock ons, crankbro's 5050xx pedals
Bottom Line:
This is an Amazing bike. I use it as a mini DH bike and it works awesome. It is the perfect size for Ontario riding. Before the 40T front sprocket it was an awesome climber as well as good for going down. Stock WTB wheelset that came with the bike was poor for anything but very light free ride and XC.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Turd Ferguson
a Weekend Warrior
from NH Date Reviewed: November 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Very quick, surefooted. Suspension feels a lot like my Iron Horse 7point5. Probably the best bike I've had, and I've had many. Feels great in the air.
I can hit drops up to 10-11 feet comfortably with this bike. Surprisingly tough frame- I've got no worries about breaking it.
Weaknesses:
Low bottom bracket is a bit of a pain in really rocky stuff.
Bottom Line:
At 34 lbs with about 7 inches of travel front and rear, it's the best bike I've found for freeriding and AM. Feels like a light weight DH bike on the downhills and a XC bike on the uphills. I really feel this is THE "do it all" bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bryanstaff
a Weekend Warrior
from stratford,ct usa Date Reviewed: November 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Trumbull
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Smart Cycles
Strengths:
Wow!.. The suspension is absolutely amazing. This bike can take a beating. It has given me more confidence and more enjoyment every day i ride.
Weaknesses:
I bang my pedals so damn much... but i guess thats just part of the deal... It happens. I removed front derailure almost immediately, then i needed a chainguide. No big deal. Also, like most new bikes... the gears tend to slip a bit.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Yukon (2003)
Bike Setup:
2008 model setup... you can go to Giant.com to see the specs on the 2008 ReignX1. I bought the Raceface Diabolous Chainguide after i removed the front derailure. 50/50 pedals.
Bottom Line:
The suspension is awesome. The bike feels incredible, like an extension of me and how i want to ride. It will make anyone a better rider especially if you come from riding hardtail like me. Gear slip still, but im a weekend warrior so hopefully that will wear out once its broken in.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
richwales
a Weekend Warrior
from Cardiff, UK Date Reviewed: November 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mountain Ash DH, North Cardiff XC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Tredz
Strengths:
the bike will go up and down - no questions. will do xc rides, dh runs and trail centres. DH the bike rides better than my kona stab. corners like a dream and the fork tracks amazingly.
Weaknesses:
bit heavy for tortuous climbs but will nevertheless get you there. need to ride smart as the pedals will catch easily on technical climbs.
Bottom Line:
Beautifully balanced bike, that is a joy to ride. i tested the commencal meta 5, giant reign, orange pro5 - all too xc feeling compared to the X1. the x1 matches these bikes in terms of climbing (riders of similar ability). its such a comfortable bike that the weight on climbs isnt an issue for me. Feels bombproof on the descents and choice of components means that it will stand up to regular uplift riding. I am really happy with this bike and would recommend it to anyone who's looking for that elusive do-it-all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chauvinist_youth
a Downhiller
from Pasadena, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 21, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Suspension Design, Price, Fox Shocks
Weaknesses:
Wheelset and Hayes Strokers
1.5" headtube would be cool as well
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinky, Titus El Guapo, Iron Horse 7point, Chumba Evo, Transition Bottle Rocket
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Awesome value, amazing suspension (not a get out of the saddle and hammer kinda deal, just keep seated at a good pace and this thing will NOT bob), plenty of travel, built strong, did I mention it's cheaper than anything else comparable?
I would buy this bike again if I had to!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason
a Downhiller
from Windsor,Ca Date Reviewed: September 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Livewire
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
light, flickable, and good climber
Weaknesses:
i didn't like how i would people and the pedals would hit rocks constantly. that didn't happen with the glory or my santa cruz heckler. so i think the bottom bracket could be lower. or maybe because i was riding a medium when i should have been riding a large.
Similar Products Used:
Heckler, Glory, faith
Bottom Line:
it was a good light bike. but the weakness for me was the pedals hit rocks and the ground. But it is a great bike and i would recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PaulHaines
a Cross Country Rider
from Bangkok, Thailand Date Reviewed: September 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Chiang Mai
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Quality of components, manufacturing, geometry, value
Weaknesses:
Hubs
Similar Products Used:
Blur LT
Bike Setup:
SRAM X9 rear mech, LX front, SRAM X7 shifters, Race Face Evolve DH crank, RaceFace AM stem, bars. Fox DHX3 coil shock, 36 VAN 160mm fork
Bottom Line:
I've come from a very lightweight SantaCruz BlurLT which I enjoy on AM & aggressive XC trails to the much burlier ReignX1.
What a revelation. With the Reign's enormous, stiff fork and slack geometry, and 6.7" of very plush rear travel, this machine soaks up obstacles in its stride. And believe me, its stride is more of a run. I was able to blast down rockgardens and steep singletrack at a speed much higher than ever before. Instead of trying to find a smoothest line (avoiding the jarring of large obstacles) it was possible to take the fastest line with more room for error.
For climbing, it would be insane to compare with a BLT, but this machine will get you up hills surprisingly well.
Quality of manufacturing is very good indeed, and for component spec its hard to work out how they do it for the price.
My only criticism would be the wheel hubs, which whilst adequate, are a level below the rest of the bike in spec, and possibly longevity.
And looks? The hydroformed tubing gives this steed some swooping lines, but still shows some teeth around the Maestro suspension linkages.
Well done Giant for a terrific machine that bridges the gap AM and full on DH machinery
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thorisit21
a Cross Country Rider
from Millerton, NY, USA Date Reviewed: August 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
7 Springs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Pleasant Valley Bike
Strengths:
Pedals nicely. Not too much bob because the Maestro works awesome. Smooth action from both fork and shock. Good for both XC and light freeride.
Weaknesses:
The Fox 36 VAN fork that comes on the '08 seems a little undersprung. I weigh 165 and can blow through the travel pretty easy. I've blown the rebound out already and need to get it fixed. Its a great fork, it feels good and everything, you just have to be a little caredful or know what you are doing. That and the stock grips aren't anything special. Invest in lock-ons. It makes a difference.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Faith 2
Bike Setup:
Stock but with Yeti lock-on grips
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. Super plush and can take anything you throw at it. No wonder Giant was low on inventory with them in '07...the Reign X1 rocks!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Fernee
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane, Australia Date Reviewed: August 21, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3400.00
Strengths:
Well balanced bike with excellent suspension. Great parts spec. QR 20mm front fork.
Weaknesses:
Bent derailleur hanger within first week. Cheap wheel set.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR '98, Big Hit '04, Intense Uzzi.
Bike Setup:
2008 model, medium. Stock Aus setup
Bottom Line:
This bike is a revelation. I sold my DH bike to get this and was not too happy about it until I rode the X1. It is a bit heavy for XC, but I can climb everything I used to on my XC bikes and then bomb down nasty stuff like my DH bike. The stiffness of the Fox 36 is amasing compared to my previous forks. It just holds its line. The bike is very well balanced in the air. It rails corners and eats rocks and roots with ease. The slack head angle requires a very aggressive riding style which makes going fast so much easier. My riding has improved significantly over the last 8 months with this bike. I got a medium frame, which is just a bit too short in the seat post for me (I'm 180 cm tall), but the large frame felt too big for trail riding. The rear suspension bobs if you get out of the saddle, but if you stay seated it hardly moves on a climb. Really brilliant for technical climbs.
I got this bike over an Intense Uzzi as it just felt better to ride. I have no regrets. This is about the best bike I could even imagine buying. A mini DH weapon that I can actually climb with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DARREN LOVESAC
a Weekend Warrior
from COLORADO Date Reviewed: July 24, 2008
Favorite Trail:
TOO MANY
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
DHX 3.0 IS PERFECT, MAESTRO SUSPENSION IS THE BEST FRAME DESIGN I HAVE EVER RIDDEN! HAYES STROKER TRAILS ARE PERFECT. WEIGHT FOR WHAT YOU GET! ON AND ON..........!
Weaknesses:
NOTHING SO FAR
Similar Products Used:
JAMIS DAKAR , SPECIALIZED ENDURO, KONA STINKY
Bike Setup:
STOCK AND SOME SPEC LO PRO MAGS
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE IS AMAZING, I AM USING THIS AS MY EVERYTHING BIKE AND IT WORKS PERFECT. WHEN SITTING DOWN AND PEDALING UPHILL IT FEELS LIKE A HARD TAIL (THERE IS BOB WHEN OUT OF THE SEAT). GREAT DOWNHILL BIKE, EASY TO THROW AROUND. MY MEDIUM IS WEIGHING IN AT 35 AND SOME POUNDS. THE FOX 36 IS GREAT BUT I HAVE NOT WORKED OUT THE SMALL BUMP COMPLIANCE YET. THIS BIKE IS AN AM/FR BIKE AND DOES BOTH PERFECTLY
GOOD, GOOD, GOOD
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zac
a Downhiller
from Whistler B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: July 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
downhill, freeride, all mountain trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Strengths:
The fox suspension is instantly smooth on the trail and the maestro suspension is absolutely amazing. The kit is really great for the price and the geometry is spot on. The bike is fairly light for all the hard stuff it can do with ease.
Weaknesses:
nothing
Similar Products Used:
specialized SX trail
Bike Setup:
All stock
Bottom Line:
I purchased the 08 version a few weeks ago in a small but whenever are go riding it easily flows down and up stuff and has great maneuverability as an advantage. Since I got it every trail ride has bin some of the greatest trail I've done in my life. I suggest this bike for riders who have been riding for at least a few years or into intermediate to double black diamond trails but if your just starting out I would suggest a hardtail instead.
Bottom line is that this is the best bike I have ever owned and if you got one you would think so to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roxnwater
a Cross Country Rider
from Issaquah, WA, USA Date Reviewed: June 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
To Many to Pick
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Center Cycle
Strengths:
Beefy Framework
Weaknesses:
Small gripes. No water bottle bosses, and the plastic shield over the shock takes two different sizes of hexes (2 & 3mm) to remove to access air nipple on shock. These things could have been worked out by Giant, but these are very small complaints and I can live (still happily) without them.
Similar Products Used:
2001 AC1, Enduro
Bike Setup:
RaceFace Steering, RaceFace Crankset, Fox Van R, Fox DH3, Hayes Stroker Trails w/8" discs, X7 Shifters, X9 Derailleur, Continental Gravities on WTB Dual use rims.
Bottom Line:
After 6 years of hard riding on the AC1 (Which I was also very happy with.) I finally broke the main triangle while riding Little Creek Mesa in Utah. I had no complaints about the AC1 and wanted to stick with Giant. After looking at the new product line and reading the good reviews of the Reign X1 on MBR I couldn't resist going for one myself. That and the fact Giant and Center Cycle were very willing to work with me to replace the defunct AC framework. Good customer service from both.
Hmmm....where to start. I'm a Clydesdale so I tend to go for the beefy frames. For me this bike is treated as an all mtn. ride. Most of my riding is XC with some small 2-3' drops occasionally. I take a large frame and after a quick test ride had the shop order the stiffest springs for the coil and fork that Fox offered. I rode it for a week as it was until the parts came in. During that time the bike was way too soft for any serious riding. The upgraded springs allowed me room to tune the shock/fork and made a world of difference on the ride.
The new Maestro setup gives the bike a lower center of gravity which makes railing through the turns better. Overall balance seems much improved over the AC1. The longer wheelbase certainly makes the downhills fly. Climbing steep pitches seems easier too. I don't seem to have to pay as much attention to weight distribution in those situations. Easier to keep the front wheel down in other words.
The stock weight was 36lbs, but it came with the Kenda Nevegal 2.35s. Those were beefier than what I needed and a bit slower than I wanted. After converting over to the lighter 2.3 Continental Gravities, the weight is closer to 34lbs.
A great ride overall. An excellent all mtn. ride for the Bigger Boyz.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy Wright
a Downhiller
from Potsda,NY, USA Date Reviewed: March 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
7 Springs
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Start House Ski&Bike
Strengths:
Great deal, awesome frame, low stack height, fair weight out of box maestro suspension is superb
Weaknesses:
Heavy for my taste, weak derailler hanger,some bearing problems
Similar Products Used:
IH 6.6 SC bullit SC heckler
Bike Setup:
2007 X1 with 66RC2x, E13 sts, thomson post + stem, EA 70 bars, wtb wheelset, xtr cassette, wtb saddle, juicy 7s, dhx 3.0
Bottom Line:
What a great little bike. I have lightened mine up quit abit from the stock setup with my parts swap and tubeless tire setup. I found the fox 36 R to be junk, no matter what spring I had in it, it would bottom like lead! If you put in the extra firm it still bottomed and did nothing for stutter bumps. The 66 really helped the bike shine with a better front end and slackening it out abit. The bike corners and handles like it is on rails. I have mine down to about 34lbs which flies at a pretty decent toughness level. It pedals, descends, and flies like a champ. After my 07' year with it, all my buds have bought a reign x for their play bike as well. The maestro is very nice, i used to race IH sundays, and this season i have switched to try the glory dh just b/c of how nice my reign x has been! We will see how it goes! Buy a reign-x if you can even find 1!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gabriel Shaw
a Downhiller
from Oak PArk, Ca Date Reviewed: March 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
suicide
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
NP bike shop
Strengths:
Everything-This bike has done 15' drops with ease and I turn around and pull my 3 yr old in her trailer down the trails. It climbs, descends and pedals so well. Best bike I have ever ridden.
Weaknesses:
The stock wheels suck ass. They are durable but very heavy. I upgraded and am putting industry nines on it.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler-Giant Trance x
Bike Setup:
Factory specs
Bottom Line:
If you want a bike that can do everything you would ever do on a bike get it. I sold my cross country bike and my downhill bike to buy this baby and it fits both uses! I cant say enough about it. It also looks sweet! Not a bad price either considering the spec list. I wouldnt go with the Reign xo if you want to down hill with it. Save some money and get the x1 and buy some light wheels!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ilham Sancaya
a Weekend Warrior
from Malang, East Java, Indonesia Date Reviewed: January 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mountains around Malang
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2105.00
Purchased At:
Semeru Bike Shop, Malang
Strengths:
You get so much for the price, and the component are good enough for me. The other strong point for this bike is its ability to climb with ease, and the bonus is the fun factor when you go descent. Plus the bike is strong enough to handle my weight (around 200lb).
Weaknesses:
None important. Just once flat tire, and I just found out that the 2.35 Kenda Nevegal tyres comes with 2.1 inner tubes. I've changed it into 2.35 size. Starting consider to convert to tubeless.
Similar Products Used:
None. My other bikes are 2005 Giant NRS-G, 2006 Klein Attitude and 2007 Commençal VIP Supernormal.
Bike Setup:
Stock 2008 Giant Reign X1 International Version with Shimano M545 pedal.
Bottom Line:
Giant is always gives us a very good price, especially in Indonesia, because they sell it without factory warranty, I means like for example if you broke your frame, they won't change your frame with the new one for free. That's why in Indonesia you could get a cheaper Giant bike. I get my 2008 Giant X1 (international spec) for only US$ 2105, and you get so much for that price, I love Giant! Also I prefer strong bike, no matter about the extra weight, as long as I could take it anywhere. And it does like what the Giant ad said.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAMES ROUSE
a Weekend Warrior
from NSW Date Reviewed: November 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
KEIRA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Strengths:
VALUE, RELIABILITY, QUALITY.
Weaknesses:
TYRES (NO BIG DEAL) ARE AVERAGE WHEN CORNERING.
Similar Products Used:
7.5, SUNDAY, JAMIS XLT
Bike Setup:
STOCK WITH SHIMANO DX CLIPLESS PEDALS.
Bottom Line:
USED TO RIDE A JAMIS XLT AND LOVED IT, BUT IT WAS NOT UP TO THE ABUSE IT TOOK AND HAD TO GO. HAD A 7.5 AFTER THAT AND THAT WAS A REALLY BEEFY SHUTTLE BIKE BUT HEAVY AND VERY HARD TO RIDE LONG TRAIL RIDES ON. IF THOSE TWO BIKES WERE LOCKED IN A ROOM TOGETHER FOR A WEEKEND, NINE MONTHS LATER THE X1 WOULD HAVE BEEN BORN. IT HAS THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS WITH THE VIRTUAL PIVOT (MAESTRO) REAR END AND THE FOX SUSPENSION. IT IS A GREAT BIKE FOR DH RUNS, YOU ARE ABLE TO MOVE THE BIKE AROUND EASILY AND GLIDE IT RATHER THAN PLOUGH THROUGH THE TRAIL. THIS BIKE FLOATS AT SPEED. AS LONG AS THERE IS A TRANSITION TO LAND ON THIS BIKE WILL HIT ANY JUMPS OR DROPS YOUR NUTS WILL ALLOW YOU TO WITH EASE. FREERIDE PERFECTION. LOVES CHILLI.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick Buckley
a Downhiller
from Buxton Derbyshire England! Date Reviewed: October 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Innerleithan
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
The bikes strength, durabilty and performance
Weaknesses:
Stock Spring too light (or im too fat)!
Similar Products Used:
Orange Patriot specialized sx trail
Bike Setup:
Stock Nice and low with high rollers flats and dropped the spacers out of the stem.
Bottom Line:
I bought this ride becuase i got a really good deal on it , i was interested in it before but when the price i paid was offered i couldnt refuse. I am really glad i did. Im more of a downhiller/freerider than a cross country rider but where i live the cross country rides are epic with serious downhills. This bike eats up rocks and corners lovely. It doesnt climb amazingly but i didnt expect that. i was initially worried as it seemed to eat through its travel and suffer on square edge hits but subsequently i have realised that its a high leverage suspension system so i fitted a harder rear sprng and its sorted. if you are a keen downhiller who doesnt want to be restricted by a dwnhill bike but would still like a bike that can take the stick this is for you. I can put me saddle up and spin my way to the top of virtually anything, chill out eat a mars drop the saddle and let rip. The other day was out on ride half way up thefirst hill we spotted a drop not massive nly about 6 foot but tricky and looked fun i wouldnt have done it on a cross country bike and it wasnt worth dragging a downhill bike all the way up there to do it and there in lies the beauty of this bike i dropped the saddle had it couple of times and tthen rode on. Mint
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
billy kraebel
a Downhiller
from cutchogue newyork Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
diablo
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
demoed
Strengths:
great bike all around since i demoed it im purchasing one it so sick
Weaknesses:
nothin, seat high isnt that ajustiable
Similar Products Used:
giants whole line
Bottom Line:
this bike is so nice including ur fox fork THIS BIKE IS TITS
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne Giddy
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, NSW, OZ Date Reviewed: October 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Silver Star, BC, Canada
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
BSP North Vancouver
Strengths:
Solid, if not heavy build.
Weaknesses:
Rear Axle bent after a couple of weeks (prob just a bit too much Mountains I guess. Dual chain ring without guide not really cross country, not really DH - hard to say if that means it is all mountain?? .. Within 10 days I had busted the main linkage bearing. (i jump, but not that much). Seat bent and busted in first 3 weeks. Fork has top out when jumping (after a couple of weeks of riding). I was riding a fair bit in Canada on predominantly DH terrain, so breakage was expected. All told the only thing that was not 'expected' was the pivot bearing blowing its guts out at Silver Star Mountain after only about 10 days of riding on the bike. (yes the bolts were tight)
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Gemini
Bike Setup:
Standard, Chainguide with 36 toother,
Bottom Line:
Great bike, From what I hear there is the odd bearing dying, but generally no issues at all with pivots.
Did all that was asked of it in Canada, and should hold up well back in Oz.
Good for a person after a no hassles 'All Mountain' machine
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Romanyshyn
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort Saskatchewan Date Reviewed: October 1, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Cranky's Bike Shop
Strengths:
This is an update to my previous review.
Bottom Line:
Swapped out the WTB freeride wheelset for my old single track front and double on back. No more noise from the rear with the stiffer rear wheel. Upgraded fork spring to extra heavy. A little on the stiff side for downhill but perfect for trails. Overall very satisfied. Would like the find a light and strong wheelset to knock the weight down a bit. Had a few issues with the front derailleur shifting during fast downhills. Chain guide should cure that.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Halpin
a Downhiller
from Bradenton, FL, US Date Reviewed: September 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Temptest (Diablo Freeride Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Purchased At:
aj's bikes and boards
Strengths:
super beefy, yet plush suspension. awesome parts, straight out of the factory (race face cranks and chain drive,topline easton components). Smooth handling for tight singletrack, and for wide open slalom style courses. Even though performance is what really matters, it even looks tight. So you'll be the talk at your local freeride spot, or at the xc, all mountain trails.
Weaknesses:
The Fox Vanillathat comes standard I personally don't like. The wheelset is also not beefy enough.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth truth, scott nitrous 20
Bike Setup:
WTB Purev, Marzocchi 66 ETA RC2, Mavic crossmax (all mountain/freeride)
Bottom Line:
This can be a prominent DH bike, or that bike you just leave in your garge and take out everyday to go hit some jumps. The beauty of this bike is that it will handle everything, and you can still use it for xc or all mountain rides. So go ahead and hit that single track, then go home and hit some 10 ft. to flat urban ledge. You'll still be ready to go to whistler for some fun the next day.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yannick bisson
a Weekend Warrior
from toronto Date Reviewed: September 21, 2007
This bike is not light and my setup has added weight. That being said...it will tackle anything you ride. Steeps, stunts, ladders, logs, berms, drops, jumps and it will carry you all the way back up again(in granny gear, in the saddle). You will not wear this bike out. It will elevate your ability instantly because of the confidence it inspires. If you ride flats and distance this not your bike. I changed some of the specs, not because of quality so much, but for sizes. What you are rewarded with after dropping the cash is well worth it. I love this bike. Full flaming dookies
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lisa
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland, New Zealand Date Reviewed: September 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Billy T
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Trademe
Strengths:
A great, fun bike that blasts down the hill and loves to fly.
Weaknesses:
Not fab at out of the saddle, up-hill pedaling. But you wouldnt buy it, if thats your "thing" anyway - so not really an issue in my book.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler
Bike Setup:
Upgrades include; High rise Funn Bars, DT Swiss FR Rims with Saint Hubs and 203ml shimano rotors.
Bottom Line:
An awesome, fun bike that gets you off the brake and fairly flying down the trails. A real confidence booster. It responds really well and is twitchy on cornering. Loves to fly through the air and is well balanced. It also has a great looking matt-black paintjob too! This bike has me grinning from ear to ear after every ride!
The Fox 36 Vans are an absolutely lovely fork to ride. Sram X7 and Juicy 5's are also the business. All around a super bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russ
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: August 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Race of Spades
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
For a bike of this size and wieght, awesome pedalling uphill. Don't get me wrong, by no means is this a cross country race bike but for a 30+ lb. bike with 6" of travel, its the best I've ridden. Looks good and the Fox RP 3 rear shock is really good.
Weaknesses:
wieghs over 30 lbs. Not a big fan of the '06 paint job. Definitely an All-Mountain bike. If you're looking for a mor nimble lighter trail bike, probably not the bike for you.
Similar Products Used:
2003 Giant AC2; Santa Cruz Nomad; Kona Dawg
Bike Setup:
Warranty replacement from the good folks at GIANT because I cracked my AC@ frame so only the frame and rear shock were stock. Marrocchi 66 RC up front; completely XT drivetrain Sun Rhino Rims and XT Hubs. Thompson seatpost and Stem.
Bottom Line:
Great value, great bike. Fun has hell on the DH's and you can actually turn it around and pedal up the same hill. Be sure to stay in the saddle when you're pedalling up hill to keep the mestro system running at his full potential. You lose a lot of the prop pedal goodness when you stand-up and mash the pedals. Buy this bike if you're budget driven but still expect the performance of a more boutique, smaller manufacturer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ANDRES PINTO
a Weekend Warrior
from DENVER,CO,USA Date Reviewed: August 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
winter park/keystone.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
derby bicycle center
Strengths:
dhx 3.0 shock. fox 36 van.boomb proof frame.
Weaknesses:
tires.
Similar Products Used:
kona stinky.sc bullit.espz.big hit.session 6 trek.espz enduro.heckler.coiler.titus el guapo.
Bike Setup:
stock with maxxis minion 2.35
Bottom Line:
I'm a trail/xc rider on saturdays & a freerider on sundays & i'll do it with the same bike, the x1. I spent 70+ hours testing /researching for a bike that could go uphill like almost a hardtail & freeride like a flullblowm downhill bike (that cost x3 as much).I tried all the big names but all the end of the day the reing X1 was the winner.The reason: you can not get a better price.All other bikes with the same components will empty your wallet.So if you are a trail/part time freerider & do not want to spent a fortune this is your macht.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brandon
a Weekend Warrior
from bay area, ca Date Reviewed: July 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anywhere at skeggs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Strengths:
almost everything, extremly plush. nearly 7 inches of travel let you go head first almost into anything. some of the components are good, sram x9 der holds up very well, comes with the chain guide and great buy in terms of value. feels like a nomad, without the nomad price.
fox van and dhx 3.0 works amazing, gives you confidence as a rider.
Weaknesses:
a bit on the heavy side and maestro only seems to work while sitting down, alot of bobing when standing. lx frnt derailer is weak, and stock tires should be swapped out.
Similar Products Used:
blur, heckler
Bottom Line:
Great purchase. decent weight for a freeride/all mountain bike, geometry is perfect. oerfect high end bike if your on a budget, feels like a 5 grand bike for half the price. i guess this is why they call it the poor mans nomad.
i love it. plush suspension, good enough to hammer out all day with your xc friends, but beefy enough to go on some serious DH runs. new favorite toy, my mini DH bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Romanyshyn
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort Saskatchewan Date Reviewed: July 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Rabbitt Hill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Cranky's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Decent set of components. Nice and light. Lots of rear end travel. Pedals like a champ.
Weaknesses:
Avid Juicy 5, rear brake makes noise while coasting during first ride. Sure if I give it some time it'll be okay. Changed handlebars to riser type. Heavier springs don't fit on the DHX 3.0 very well.
Similar Products Used:
2001 Santa Cruz Bullit 2006 Santa Cruz Nomad 2002 Specialized BigHit Comp
Bike Setup:
Bone stock except for the handlebars and I've got a heavier spring on order for the fork.
Bottom Line:
Got the 18" size. Cockpit is tight as seen in another review. I kept the stock Fox Vanilla 36R and it feels pretty good, with the proper spring for my weight it should be fine. No need to upgrade to a RC2. I had a 600 spring to put in the DHX, doesn't fit very well, inside diameter of spring is too small. LBS is looking into it for me. Put the spring in anyway and rode. No bob when seated, and some bob when upright but mostly from the fork. With the heavier fork spring, should be awesome. Well worth the money for the kind of bike you get. Cheaper than the Nomad, with more travel, and just as light. Oh, did I mention this bike loves to jump. I wanted to buy a bike that could handle my rides through the local river valley and still be able to cook it at the local MTB park. So far, so good. If your looking for a Giant Reign X1 and can't find one, put your order in now. Next years model is supposed to be a little bit lighter. I got mine for a good price so that's why I got one this year.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Branch
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort Collins CO United States Date Reviewed: July 20, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anything fast
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
-travel, 6.7" rear 6.3" front -comfort -strength -components -great fox shox -price -maestro technology -looks, (looks like a stealth bomber) -warranty
Weaknesses:
-none... period
Similar Products Used:
-Giant XTC AC 1 -Giant Reign 3 -Norco Six
Bike Setup:
Stock Except; -Azonic Outlaw wheelset -7" rear rotor to match front (Juicy 5) -ODI roughneck lock-on grips -Azonic Journey seat
Bottom Line:
I want to start by stating that this bike is not a cross country machine, but if your not a wuss you can muscle it up just about anything. This bike was made to do thrashing at 40mph downhill and be able to get you back up. By far the most bike for the money and there is no bike company out there that can match the maestro suspension technology. Virtually no pedal bob except out of seat sprinting and no lateral flex of the frame or shock. The X1 model features the "R" models of Fox's Vanilla line. I like how easy it is to adjust being coil based. I think the coil will hold up to abuse better than the lighter RC2 versions. The main difference I have noticed from the other bikes I have ridden is how much this thing takes big hits and is able to feel steady at very high speed. So far every type of terrain is eaten up by this thing. The Barracuda tires grip well except feel a little loose on hardpack but tire pressure might be the problem. I feel like there's no limit to this machine. I am very excited to push this thing to the edge. To all of you out there checkin' this bike out, get it if you can find one. There is no complaints I have except that the plastic shock protector is not going to last long, but that's not really a complaint. As far as the components go the Sram X7 and X9 front and rear derailleur work great and are crisp. Avid Juicy 5's are plenty stopping power if you have the right size rotors for you weight. I like the Race Face Ride DH crank and X type BB because it will take punishment and keep going. You could go lighter with components on this bike but a waste of money if you ask me. Just loose weight off of yourself instead of the bike or grow some legs muscles..lol. Bottom Line = Superb
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: July 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
phd
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
BSP
Strengths:
Suspension smoothes out the trail like no other AM I have ridden. Pedals well. Really fast when pointed down. 2 thumbs up to fox forks, if you havn't ridden one it's time to check them out.
Weaknesses:
Hutchinson Tires!! Can you say pinch flat!! I am worried about the rear hubs durability.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Big Hit, Brodie Holeshot
Bike Setup:
Wider Bars, 2.5" Maxxis Minions, DH Tubes
Bottom Line:
Great value for your buck. Tough to get your hands on one. This bike handles all it's chores well, no complaints. It is a great bike for the shore with the few upgrades I have made. Can still be pedaled up and leave you with enough steam for the descent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Lofthouse
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary Date Reviewed: June 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
all of em
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
The Cyclepath south Calgary
Strengths:
geometry, stability, maneuverablility, suspension. solid, functionally decent, balanced parts spec for the money - I'd rather compromise with heavy parts that work fine.
Weaknesses:
Should come with 8"f/7"r rotors, but the brakes are great otherwise. Saddle - I like the WTB Laser V on my XC bike, but this Pure V isn't comfortable for climbs (!!!), and is to wide for me to move around.
Supply - this may be the bargain FR bike of '07 and Giant apparently didn't make enough.
Similar Products Used:
SX Trail, VP free
Bike Setup:
cdn spec (didn't come with chainguide) with a few parts upgrades, swapped the RF Ride DH for Hone 2-ring cranks, installed a Stinger chainguide (fits with the Hone's 50mm chainline), and upgrading over time to adjust the cockpit, and lighten parts that don't affect durability. I have spare wheels mounted with DH tires for lift-access rides.
Bottom Line:
Really crappy weather since buying it in January, but after a few local DH and AM rides - its downhill ability is all I could wish for - on fast rocky/rooty singletrack it tracks a solid line but can be turned on demand. On AM rides I'm cleaning steeper climbs than I thought the Van 36 would let me (on my Stumpy I have to drop the IT fork all the time), but I'm not totally happy with the feel and traction yet. Tire choice and susp setup maybe, plus it isn't a lightweight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robbie Vaughan
a Weekend Warrior
from Greer, SC Date Reviewed: June 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Headly
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Magic Cycles
Strengths:
Geometry, Plush, love the Van 36
Weaknesses:
none so far, 8 inch rotors?
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Nomad, Specialzed Enduro Trail SX
Bike Setup:
all factory except Oury Grips and Kenda Nevegal(2.35) rear tire
Bottom Line:
If you are a freerider who needs a bike the bombs downhill, but at the same time can climb to the top, this is it.
Pound for Pound there is no other bike in the same category. Did I mentioned it is 2600.00, roughly 1,000.00 less than its competiors with the same set up.
I'm stoked I waited on this bike and would do it all over again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Jerred
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: June 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Goats Head
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Ridleys - Calgary
Strengths:
Great All Mountain Bike, Handles Fast Descents, Good Climber, Strong Bike, Plush Ride
Weaknesses:
Cable setup needs work, Probably the worst thing about the bike is that the stock cable routes constantly hit your right leg while riding. Giant: figure it out!
Similar Products Used:
GT iDrive (first full suspension), Rocky Mountain Dawg Deluxe, - ride a 2006 Devinci - Amsterdam on the asphalt.
Bike Setup:
2007 Reign 1 - 6-inch travel, Fox 32 Float RL, 140mm suspension fork, Fox Float RP2 rear shock, SRAM X.7 shifters/ X.9 rear derailleur with Hayes HFX 9 XC brakes, Race Face Evolve XC alloy handlebar, stem and seatpost, WTB SpeedDisc Trail rim/ DT Cerit hub wheelset
Bottom Line:
I'm 6'2" - 200+ lbs, this bike can turn a 3 hr ride in the mountains over roots and rocks into a nature tour. Fast as you want in the descents, crisp shifting from the SRAM derailleur, and a good climber if you're steady in the saddle. The extra travel means the bike can take more than I will, which translates to less trips to the bike shop (= more riding).
I ride my hybrid Mon- Fri, so that I can go out on the weekend and kick@## with this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J Turner
a
from knoxvegas Date Reviewed: May 23, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Giant
Strengths:
strong suspension design, descent components, Nice Fork, not to heavy, the first Hutchison tire that is not crap!!!
Weaknesses:
Formula hubs are suspect, reflectors? a 203mm rotor in the front please
Similar Products Used:
05 Giant Reign 2, AM 1 Crosmax XL, sram bla bla bla, Giant STP, Trek STP200 (yes it cracked)
Bike Setup:
Bone Stock with Fatboy springs, for now
Bottom Line:
If you can find it, buy it! what a great bike, it looks awesome, it rides great, loves the three R's, roots rocks and ruts. this thing was made to fly, no doubt. for what it is its not too heavy. It pedals like, a maestro bike, awesome. This is my first Fox fork, i am a marz man so i was a little worried about going to the dark side, but honestly, its a really nice fork, black too just like the frame, Darth Vader comes to mind. the wheels, we will see, working at a giant dealer i have seen my fair share of formula hubs busted, but i am willing to give them a chance.....And for once, by divine inspiration someone at Hutchison made a tire that is not complete S#&t, the cudas actually work really well around here, less any drops or hard riding yet though, so we will see on that too....Overall for the price, which is $2600.00 retail, you can not and will not beat this bike, this is a true all mountain bike that can handle some big stuff, now if you can actually get the bike, Giant didnt make enough of them =( 10 Flaming turds!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Butters
a Downhiller
from Kelowna BC Canada Date Reviewed: May 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
pisslips
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
cyclepath
Strengths:
amazing stock setup and great value. love the 36 and the dhx. the suspension setup and design is the best it has no pedal bob or brake jack. great geometry love the bike
Weaknesses:
should have come with bigger rotors because for freeride a 7inch and a 6inch is not enough power for me
Similar Products Used:
sx trail
Bike Setup:
stock exept 203mm rotors
Bottom Line:
this is what all freeride bikes should be modeled after. it is plush, it is light, it is strong, it has perfect amount of travel and it can pedal up the hill better than any other freeride bike. By far the sickest bike I have ever had. Can't say enough about this one. In my opinion the freeride bike of 2007!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marios Spyrou
a Weekend Warrior
from Xylotymvou Larnaka Cyprus Date Reviewed: May 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Troodos
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
LuvBikes.com (UK)
Strengths:
Stability,manouvrability,nice geometry, pedal-pop free, very good braking, quality suspension, accelerates very fast, Reasonable weight 15kg, very good price (I paid £1770 GBP pounds)
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Factory setup, plus a pair of DMR V8 RC red (they Grip very nice especially if you get a set of FiveTen shoes)
Bottom Line:
This bike is mean!! It is the black lord which can conquers all the trial and freeride sections. But apart from this, X1 can go uphill too and then get you down fast! Its weight, gives the rider the ability to climb to the top (you must raise the seat) and then go downhill
Before I purchase this monster people who owned it told me that it would be heavy to ride on stip hills. This was not true. I have tested the bike in all kind of terrain and believe me this bike can take you anywhere. To be honest on very stip uphills sometimes I am out of breath but I was never forced to jump down and push it to the top.
On Downhill this bike goes fast. It forgives all your mistakes so it makes you some time to want to go fast and wild!!
On drop offs the bike keeps a balance between the back and the front wheel. The suspensions take almost anything, but you need to setup the sag probarly. Apart from that, on technical sections it handles very nice because of the close distance cockpit Reign X1's have.
This bike though cannot be raced (XC) and if you ride with your XC buddies, you might find yourself a bit behindif you do not have the appropriate stamina
Other than this, X1 is the best bike money can buy in my opinion. I have researched a lot before buying my X1. Make sure though that you get the right frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy Wright
a Downhiller
from Morristown Date Reviewed: April 27, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Start House bike and ski
Strengths:
great frame, good geo. #s great suspension. good brakes, decent drive train VALUE! fox 36 is sweet
Weaknesses:
butter soft derailluer hangers, narrow bars, shift cables pretty short, hard to fit a chainguide
Similar Products Used:
heckler
Bike Setup:
stock with e13 sts chainguide, wider ea 50 bars, thomson stem 50 50 x pedals
Bottom Line:
I got this as my mini downhill bike, and so far is is pretty awesome, jumps very well, i went with a 18" size for a 6 foot dude. would be too small for XC, but jumping it is awesome. the bike handles great, the value is unbelievable! The start house in woodstock VT took great care of me! the derailluer hangers are pretty thin. the bike hauls, very happy with it so far! great buy. about 35lbs stock, i have dropped a couple with tubeless wheelset and some part swap outs
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
frank chibu
a Cross Country Rider
from raleigh, NC USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
illigal
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
AllStar
Strengths:
Amazing Downhill. Will eat about anything. Totally changed my ride... never on the binders until it matters. It is a bit "big" going uphill, but it can climb well, especially through technical Uphill like a rock garden, just point and pedal, no need to choose a good line.
Weaknesses:
The only weakness is (and this may be common for this type bike) is if you want the bigger ring(there are only 2 front rings), you gotta be in the tall gears on the back, and the same when you need to go low, you gotta go to the small ring to be in those gears. No more middle ring 9 gears for 90% of my riding (XC) only using little ring up front for exteme uphill. This is not a big weakness.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Trance 3
Bike Setup:
Stock, but with Oury Grips
Bottom Line:
If you like DH this bike is awesome, and will climb as well. its my new XC/DH bike (a true AM)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, Western Australia Date Reviewed: February 6, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Quality components, great value for money, excellent cornering abilities, virtually no pedal feedback, and it looks mean!
This is such a great bike! I needed a bike that could take a beating on the trails and down the hills, but at the same time was able to climb well and remain light enough to ride around the streets and over to friends' houses. I originally looked at the 07 Giant Reign 1. That is also a great bike, but I decided to go for the more bombproof componentry of the X1 as opposed to the lighter-weight of the Reign 1 (the X1 weighs just over 15kgs, compared to the Reigns' 13.5kgs).
I was amazed at how easy it was to ride the X1. It corners incredibly well and is so stable at high speeds that it encourages you to try things (dangerous manoeuvres!) that you wouldn't normally feel confident in doing. The coil shocks are really plush and absorb anything you can throw at them. If you do exceed your limits, the bike forgives you and can pull you out of trouble (the brakes provide excellent stopping power).
All this, and yet the bike remains able to be comfortably ridden around the streets (I regularly commute 10kms to work and back on this bike). I have not yet found anything that cannot be done on this bike - it is only limited by the skills of the rider!
The bottom line is - This bike does it all, and does it very well (and at such a great price!).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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