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Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Rotorua, NZ
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Redwoods | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Strengths: | Takes the hits really well. Beefy gussets, and hayes have been working sweet. Forks have performed really well. | | Weaknesses: | Creak in the headset gets a bit agitating. | | Similar Products Used: | Stumpjumper, Trek Fuel 80, Hardtails. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except platforms, bash ring. | | Bottom Line: | This bike has worked really well for me. I purchased it new only about 6-7 months ago (old stock in the shop). There are a few noises coming out of the headset but I can't fault it otherwise. The psylos have worked well, I have heard from other AC riders that the newer psylos tend to blow out (02-03 models) but mine are fine so far.
It is definitely the best for xc, but with some faster rolling rubber (maxxis larsen/dynomite) it does the job.
The perfect bike for those who love the downhills, but want to bike up (slowly) rather than walk. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott
a Weekend Warrior
from washington
Date Reviewed: September 3, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | this frame is strong so far. component setup is pretty good. this bike can take a lot of abuse. rockshock customer service has been great. i broke both shocks and they sent new ones w/o question. | | Weaknesses: | both shocks are low quality if you ride really aggressive. i broke the fork in 3 weeks of purchase and 2 weeks ago broke rear. both need to be upgraded eventually. | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky dee lux, cove g-spot (demo only) | | Bike Setup: | ac 2, phylo front( soon to be 2003 jr t), fox vanilla rc rear (just got today). raceface cranks, xt fr and rear derails., everything else pretty much stock. | | Bottom Line: | this bike is great. after i put on the vanilla rc, rear end feels much stronger. great freeride,dh rig for the price. runs great out of the box. can't wait until the '03 jr t comes out to finish shock upgrades. i have done 8 foot drops with the phylo and it has been holding up pretty good so far but to go much higher a dual crown will be much better of course. frame is strong and will hold up to abuse and seems to be durable. not a five flamin' cause of shock problem. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Bivens
a
from Littleton
Date Reviewed: August 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | dakota ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike source | | Strengths: | frame, parts, confidence compartment, and about every other aspect of this bike. I honestly will probably never buy another brand of bicycle as long as i ride, unless they go "mongoose". one word. tough. | | Weaknesses: | after this much use, i would say that a few parts picks could be called a weakness, but honestly the only thing I would change is the lx cranks. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX downhill, kona stinky, K2 disco monkey, specialized enduro. | | Bike Setup: | stock, sun ringle zulu pedals. | | Bottom Line: | if you get a deal on this bike, wait scratch that. if you enjoy jumping and trying to hurt your self or your bike, and constantly found yourself hurting your hardtails parts or your lightweight full suspension, go out and get this. this bike is bad. not just bad, but truly bad ass. i have never ridden such a fantastic execution of idealogy as this. Rolling art work. there are also travel upgrade kits available through gold-techcycles.uk, that upgrade the bike to a 5,6,7.5 inch travel bike. I am getting them, and once i do, you will be able to read about them here. 5 flaming turds. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Damian Hendren
a Downhiller
from Tauranga, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | 42nd Traverse | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Underground Cycles | | Strengths: | Good strong bike, able to land big drops without bottoming out. Adjustable rear suspension good for XC & DH riding. | | Weaknesses: | Creaking in front headseat and had rear shock lock up on first ride. Vibration coming through frame from rear disc. All repaired under warranty
Not the best XC bike out there but good compromise as really good freeride bike. | | Similar Products Used: | GT LTS 2000, Schwinn S10, Marin Pine Mountain, Marin Indian Fire Trail etc. | | Bike Setup: | As standard except Keywin DH pedals, Tioga DH seat, Maxxis 2.5 High Roller DH tyres, Psylo 2002 XC fork upgrade, XT rear mech upgrade, 8" disc's front & rear. | | Bottom Line: | Best bike I have owned for DH and jumps so far. Slow XC bike but still able to keep up most others and lack of speed mainly due to 2.5 tyres and choosing the Small frame size.
Very strong with relatively few breakages.
Front shocks (2002 Psylo's) are excellent, better than Z1 Marzocchi's on my 2nd bike.
Rear suspension has good action and no harsh bottoming.
Hayes 8" discs awesome stopping power. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Bennett
a
from Tempe
Date Reviewed: March 15, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle wheelers | | Strengths: | This is an update to a previous review. Bike has been working awesome. I have run it with many different setups. Most recently is with a Junior T. All I can say is WOW! If you have this bike...I highly recommend putting a dual crown on it. Brings it to the next level. | | Weaknesses: | Mine came with a 500lb shock and it is way too soft. Upgraded to a mountain speed 750lb. | | Similar Products Used: | Stinkies...Psycle werks...bla bla | | Bike Setup: | AC2, Junior T, Mavics, Mrp, race face | | Bottom Line: | This is an update from a previous review. Bottom line is the bike is so much fun and can be built with many applications in mind. Put a Junior T on it and launch off anything you can find...makes the head angle perfect.
It would be really cool if Giant came out with an after market rear end like specialized did. Give us an option of like 8" of travel with a Ellsworth Dare type rear end. That would be sweet but I cant see Bigtime Giant putting in the time or effort to accomadate us like that...but who knows. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tyler
a
from powell river
Date Reviewed: February 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | pre roller | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | suncoast cycles | | Weaknesses: | the deralliur hanger has broken 6 times already, the back shock broke and i sent it away about 2 months ago and havent gotten it back yet | | Bike Setup: | mosh flats ring guard | | Bottom Line: | this bike would work well if it didnt brake every 2 weeks i have done 7ft drops and it lands well but a week or so later something will brake again. i do not recomend this bike to anyone because it gets expensive braking all the stuff. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BRIAN BIVENS
a
from littleton co 80123
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | dakota ridge/red rocks | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | BIKESOURCE | | Strengths: | SICK DROPS? NO PROBLEM. THE FIRST DAY I GOT THE BIKE I TOOK IT BEHIND THE GROCERY STORE AND JUMPED IT OFF OF THE CONCRETE SEMI LOADING DOC (ABOUT 5.5-6 FOOT DROP) AND WRECKED. BUT THE BIKE WAS FINE. NEXT DAY TOOK IT OFF THE SAME DROP TWICE, LANDED IT BOTH TIMES. THIS THING IS BOMB PROOF. | | Weaknesses: | THE ROCK SHOX PRODUCTS I QUESTIONED, BUT INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY, THEY HAVEN'T FAILED ME YET. LX REAR DERAILER, BUT AN XT FRONT? | | Similar Products Used: | GIANT AC 1 (SAME BIKE DIFFERENT COLOR AND FORK)
KONA STINKY (CRAPPY PART SELECTION)
| | Bike Setup: | STOCK EXCEPT FOR MY PLATFORM PEDALS. SUN RINGLE PLATS | | Bottom Line: | THIS BIKE IS SICK, I COULDN'T IMAGINE TAKING THE DROPS I TAKE NOW ON THIS BIKE TWO MONTHS AGO. IF YOU READ THE MOUNTAIN BIKE MAGAZINE REVIEW OF THE AC 1, DONT BELIEVE THEM, FLEX MY ASS. THIS IS A CONFIDENCE INSPIRING DROP MONSTER WITH A MISSION OF GIVING YOU BIGGER BALLS FOR BIGGER HITS. I LOVE THIS THING | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a Weekend Warrior
from Corvallis, OR, USA
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike-n-hike | | Strengths: | Excellent manners on the small-to-medium-sized stuff. Light(34lbs) for a bike with 6" rear/5" front travel. Jumps well. Pedals good even with the travel in the 6" position. Also pedals good while rear suspension is in motion. Adjustable compression(24 clicks)/ rebound(38 clicks) on the rear shock was a good idea anyway, even if you can't make use of the whole range. Sealed bearing rear suspension pivots are holding up well. 6-inch Hayes hydros are flawless, the only thing better would be 8-inch hayes hydros(as spec'd on the 2002 AC-1/AC-2). | | Weaknesses: | I'm still questioning the rock shox products, both front and rear- when it comes to anything larger than about 3-4'(weak) drops to flat ground(if anyone at RockShox or Giant reads this, please e-mail me with suggestions)..
First, the rear shock. After reading other rider's tales of blown RS Pro Deluxe's, I was weary of running the rearshock at a high compression/rebound setting. The shock also growls at you if you actually have the compression/rebound set stiff enough. The end result: I bottomed the rear end so hard that I put a flat spot in my Rhino Lite rim THE SECOND DAY I OWNED THE BIKE. The no-name hub was also bent in the process. As a credit to rock shox, my shock has not blown yet but I really wish I could use the entire range of compression settings.
Now on to the Psylo XC fork. There's actually a combination of issues:
- external adjustability(or lack thereof), and
- initial setup was not right, probably due to poor manufacturing practices.
When I first got the bike some other guys pointed out that the fork was extremely stiff and was topping out badly, so I put a ziptie on the left stanchion to measure the sag. Even with the pre-load adjuster backed all the way out, I could not get the the proper amount of sag out of the fork. The funny thing is, when taking hits as small as 3 stairs, the ziptie reveals the harsh truth: a bottomed out "freeride" fork! Come on, RS!
Why put an external rebound adjuster on the fork with only 90 degrees (1/4 turn) of adjustment?? Even the stiffest rebound setting does not stop the shock from topping/bottoming out unreasonably.
There was also noticeable play in the front fork, but I've heard RS is replacing the bushings on 2001 psylos with the 2002-style bushing, which is 3 times thicker.
Also the chain slaps the frame a lot. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro, Big Hit, Gary Fisher Sugar 2+, Fisher Joshua | | Bike Setup: | All stock except XT shifters, XTR rear derailleur, and platform pedals. Next up: cranks, tires, rims, hubs, headset! | | Bottom Line: | A sweet bike, the 2002 AC-2 should be even better. If you are shyed away from the 2002 AC-1 because of the obese Marzocchi Shiver XC fork, take a good look at the AC2 because it is almost exactly the same thing. I know I wrote a novel in the "weaknesses" part, but the truth is that any beefy full-suspension bike under $2000 new is going to be compromised in some areas. When you compare the AC-2 to anything else in its $ range, I think it will emerge as the clear-cut winner. Despite the fork issues, I will still ride my AC-2 around the OSU campus pretending chicks dig it every day! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lionell Jansen
a Downhiller
from Wilrijk, Belgium
Date Reviewed: January 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | haven't got any yet | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | drivesports.net | | Strengths: | Great bike for extreme freeride with the upgrades I did and for downhill | | Weaknesses: | none found so far | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for Shimano M646 pedals, Woodman Rockster S stem, Manitou X-Vert DH, Odi grips, RF Taperlock BB, RF Prodigy cranks,... | | Bottom Line: | This is my first full suspension bike ever, it rides just great. Since the moment I have it, I spent quite a few $$$ on it upgrading it to the way I wanted it to be. In future Nokian tires will be put on, MRP or FSA chainguide and SDG Big Boy saddle.
I haven't had loads of time yet to ride it, but I will do so this year and give you a later review! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve A
a Downhiller
from Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | pick | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycles St.Laurent | | Strengths: | just updating my review from last time | | Weaknesses: | just about perfect.i fixed that braking problem | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for Black Spire big ring protector, boXXer (painted black), 8 in hayes up front, 24" doublewide with xt hub and arrow 2.7 tire | | Bottom Line: | I'm not sure if i should turn it into an intermediate level dh rig, or make it into an extreme freeride...that will be to decide later, right now, i like it how it is...right in between | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Bennett
a
from Tempe, Az
Date Reviewed: November 2, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | national | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Wheelers (Tempe) | | Strengths: | This bike decends like it gets paid for it. Point it and its there. Can't really say enough about the bike. Buy one | | Weaknesses: | Well...on my first ride I blew the rear shock out but kept on riding it! I guess the bunners at Rock Shox forgot to put it together completely. I was a little bummed but no problem. It was also hard to keep the front end on the ground for steep climbs so I am gonna change to 110mm stem...that should do the trick. I also bought the medium size and I am 6'3 so I think it will give me a better riding position. The seat sucks and the tires are so so but fatty. | | Similar Products Used: | Psycle Werks, Stinky Dee Lux | | Bike Setup: | Basically stock...I want to put a bash guard in replace of the big ring...new stem...new rear derailer...maybe a shiver sc in the future. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike...Great price...Good bike to beat on for awhile and then upgrade when you break something. Very trailworthy right out of the box. I think that this bike would be good for anyone who wants to put their feet in the freeride waters and test it out. Not quite a downhiller but an awesome freerider. If you don't have alot of knarly terrain around you...it may be alittle to much bike but you can trailride it at the 4.5 setting. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stephen Amend
a Downhiller
from Montreal Quebec Canada
Date Reviewed: October 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycles St-Laurent | | Strengths: | Amazing, travel is very plush, handles great. love the sure wide handlebar. | | Weaknesses: | Not related to the bike itself, but the brakes piss me off sometimes....make noises and rub, but I guess it's all a matter of adjustment. I used to hate the seat, but I made myself get used to it, and now it's fine, the setpost was a bit too long, but hey, I paid 2600 (CDN$) tax included, so i can live with the few pet peeves. The bike's strenghts far outweigh it's weaknesses. | | Similar Products Used: | Norco VPS 1 w/ Shiver, Santa Cruz S8 w/ Monster, Karpiel Armageddon, Aeon Joker w/Stratos S8 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, other than Axiom pedals, Front Derailleur, Shifters and crank. Also a Black Spire Big Ring Protector......I am considering putting on a Super T next spring. | | Bottom Line: | Love it! Well designed, well made, well priced (cause Giant actually manufactures their frames). I want to put on a Super T. Any word on what i should do about that? I don't care about that warrenty gerbage, I'll just put on a sigle crown if anything happens. But I just want to make sure the headtube to can take it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
evan johnson
a Downhiller
from calgary
Date Reviewed: October 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all down hill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | (price is cdn.) mountain edge ( in cochrane) | | Strengths: | hayes r sweat,the psylos,frame takes a huge beating | | Weaknesses: | rear derailleur is sh!t,this is my 3 and now i am sending it back to giant 4 the fourth.the cranks? they should not have put lx. | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky deelux | | Bike Setup: | race face grips kooka bash ring,every thing else fac. | | Bottom Line: | sweat ass bike,great for free ride and dh if u r not more than 150lbs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ned Kelly
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Sydney | | Strengths: | Light, yet plush and strong. Great all round bike.The rear end seems to be very solid compared to the FSR, | | Weaknesses: | Flexy in the rear if you land of center on big drops. | | Similar Products Used: | FSR Big Hit, the rear end sucks compared to the AC2,
| | Bike Setup: | Big One Pro 180mm travel. (Similar to Mons/T's) Mavic 521's RS Pro Delux + all the good stuff. | | Bottom Line: | I dont care about warranties so I just fitted the big forks and it takes the drops well heaps plush. The front end is high now but who cares its not a XC bike. Great rear end takes 1 minute to adjust to different travel lengths. If you want a bike that can go from DH to XC with the change of your forks this is it. I will keep it until I break it!
:)
Buy this bike if you love XC and DH cause it will do both easily even with the original Phsylo's | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Adelaide South Oz
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | www.phantomcycles.com.au | | Strengths: | Lots of stand over clearance, travel, pretty solid. | | Weaknesses: | Bottom pivot loosened after a few rides! Dual Crown voids warranty. Kinky seat post limits travel. Ahh to be able to afford a Stinky | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX 950 | | Bottom Line: | I actually only bought the frame. For the price the setup is pretty hard to beat. It's solid and takes some decent drops and general abuse. The Pro Deluxe seems to be holding up well so far, although I'm keeping my eye on it. It's a bit un nerving that one of the main pivots in the rear suspension loosened to nearly falling off after a few rides, if you buy one, check all this stuff! Other than that it does it's job very well. On 4 inches the back end is very solid for climbing or no bob. On 6 inches it soaks up a hell of alot! The integral headset seems good for me so far. All up I'm gonna give it 5 for value.. but 4 overall for them not doing up the rear sus and trying to kill me! ;) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta
Date Reviewed: September 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Cox Hill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Ridley's Cycle | | Strengths: | Hayes discs, adjustable travel, smooth ride inspires confidence | | Weaknesses: | Terrible seat
Limited seat-height adjustability
I don't know why they went with XT front and LX rear?
The rear hub failed, but Giant is replacing it with XT and paying for labor
The Psylo has a bushing problem causing too much play - Rockshox is fixing the problem - I'll live with it til winter. | | Similar Products Used: | Fuel 90, NRS-2 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for XT rear derailleur, Axiom telescopic seatpost, Truvativ big ring, Selle Italia seat, Ritchey pedals | | Bottom Line: | Great bike - made me a better biker instantly (though I am not doing 6 foot hucks on it - more of an agressive xc bike). I was thinking about getting an xc bike and I am very happy that I went with this bike instead. I am 160 pounds so I can't foresee ever needing more bike than this. Great brakes.
Overall not that much difference in climbing between this and a hardtail because on rough terrain the AC2 provides more consistent traction. Only time the climbing bob is significant is when standing up - tightening the compression on the prodeluxe helps this problem.
Bottom line is this bike is awesome - goes uphill ok and you can fly down. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mark
a Weekend Warrior
from adelaide,sth.australia
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | gate 19 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3500.00 | | Purchased At: | stupid elliotts | | Strengths: | adjustability,loads of good gear for the money.psylos with their trick 20mm axle work fine,if a little soft.the over all feel of bike is great,and the extra weight is hardly even noticable...this thing rails | | Weaknesses: | yes,the rear does seem alittle flexy on dodgy landings.chain drops off and sucks up alot!! it was real squeaky before igot it all sorted.tyres are sketchy,lose 'em.seat,chain,nogoodeither..rear shock needs looking at,bloody sh#tshox.it tops out overstutter bumps,and yes,i have played with the adjustments.the shop guys haven't got a clue about much at all,don't waste your time with these guys!!! | | Similar Products Used: | my old fsr,new fsr's are way expensive for what you get. | | Bike Setup: | stock,except for xt rear and shifters,and better[read grippy]tyres,2 1/2" riser bar,azonic[luv 'em] | | Bottom Line: | i absolutely love this bike,now i've gotten rid of the little squeaks from it.it has definetly given me way more confidence on drops,jumps,and downhills..i thought my old fsr was fun until i jumped on this baby!!!6" rear is sooo plush on 4' or 5' drops...it never bottoms out!! i know this frame can handle stuff way bigger than i'll ever do!!sure,6" triples would rock on the front,but hay,we can't have[afford] everything.5 out of 5,all the way...if you've always wanted to go just a bit bigger,but hold back a little,have ago on an AC 2...you'll soon be smilng!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mark
a Weekend Warrior
from adelaide,sth.australia
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | gate 19 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3500.00 | | Purchased At: | stupid elliotts | | Strengths: | adjustability,loads of good gear for the money.psylos with their trick 20mm axle work fine,if a little soft.the over all feel of bike is great,and the extra weight is hardly even noticable...this thing rails | | Weaknesses: | yes,the rear does seem alittle flexy on dodgy landings.chain drops off and sucks up alot!! it was real squeaky before igot it all sorted.tyres are sketchy,lose 'em.seat,chain,nogoodeither..rear shock needs looking at,bloody sh#tshox.it tops out overstutter bumps,and yes,i have played with the adjustments.the shop guys haven't got a clue about much at all,don't waste your time with these guys!!! | | Similar Products Used: | my old fsr,new fsr's are way expensive for what you get. | | Bike Setup: | stock,except for xt rear and shifters,and better[read grippy]tyres,2 1/2" riser bar,azonic[luv 'em] | | Bottom Line: | i absolutely love this bike,now i've gotten rid of the little squeaks from it.it has definetly given me way more confidence on drops,jumps,and downhills..i thought my old fsr was fun until i jumped on this baby!!!6" rear is sooo plush on 4' or 5' drops...it never bottoms out!! i know this frame can handle stuff way bigger than i'll ever do!!sure,6" triples would rock on the front,but hay,we can't have[afford] everything.5 out of 5,all the way...if you've always wanted to go just a bit bigger,but hold back a little,have ago on an AC 2...you'll soon be smilng!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne, Australia
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | buller (new dh track), big hill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | tfm | | Strengths: | >value for money is way ahead of pretty much everything else, particularly in australia
>good balance of weight vs travel, (for trail riding / jumping / “freeriding”)
>looks great (with good stuff on it, anyway)
>climbs fine when set to 5”
>adjustability of travel (not bb height/head angle, which would be really useful for an “ac” bike) | | Weaknesses: | >rear end does flex noticeably compared to many (heavier) bikes
>giant still haven’t worked out how to tighten the pivot (and disc rotor) bolts properly (stupidly common problem with most of their bikes.. why?!?)
>can’t run a triple clamp fork (the warranty is made void. - think rm6/7, bullit, rfx, stinky)
>integrated headsets suck… doesn’t hold up well. often either too tight or loose; refuses to remain stable (and yes everything else is tight). It is happier now after 8 months of use (?). They should only be specced on xc bikes, where the tiny weight saving is a concern.
>There is a heap of chainsuck (nice chunks removed from under swingarm near front chainring), and the chain generally falls surprisingly often. But that’s partly my fault for wanting to do jumps with 2 or 3 chainrings.
>I despise rock shox rear shocks (the pro deluxe is better than their past efforts, but you supposedly still can’t service them at home. Don’t understand that at all, since most people who want to service parts are capable anyway). I wish giant would use FOX!! (that is my biggest gripe with giant)
>bending seat tube… why sacrifice seat adjustment for aesthetics? need to have a few seatposts
>head angle pretty steep with normal forks... an acceptable concession to climbing control maybe, but that geometry argument is pretty weak for a bike which is meant to be used for serious riding. | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky/stab, gt lts, I-drive, norco vps, specialized big hit, intense uzzi dh/tazer, etc.. lots of dh bikes | | Bike Setup: | rock shox boxxer (2000) (don’t tell giant), Hope Enduro (185mm f&r; the best brakes, PERIOD! Those who say hayes are the best obviously haven’t used these… I have had formula, hope c2, dh4, used gustavs and lots more extensively, and still have hayes on another bike… email if you want/need details), Hope bulb hubs, Mavic 321s, Thomson posts, Azonic shorty, 2” DW bars, ODI, XT bits, Michelin Comp16 or Hot S tires, truvativ hussefelt cranks & bashring, dmr v12 / dx636 pedals, black spire rings, etc… otherwise standard (which leaves the front derailleur and chain) | | Bottom Line: | I obviously can’t really comment too much on the standard ac bike, since I never rode it in anything but a very altered state. The ac is almost as plush as a dh bike (in 6” setting obviously), so I thought I’d get rid of the dh bike (giant atx dh, but kept some of the better bits). The biggest difference is that the rear of the ac bikes really do flex when landing with any side load. It isn’t too annoying during normal riding, and I guess for anyone progressing from a “normal” bike (ie not a Brooklyn/m1/disco) it isn’t too bad, but comparing the rear stability to a decent dh or strong freeride bike, it is a bit disconcerting. This knocks marks off for downhilling, but then again, this bike isn’t intended for serious downhill, so I can forgive it to a degree.
This bike can be used for most types of riding, and as a compromise it is pretty good. I think it works best at the 5.15” setting, and being used as a trail bike. For that reason, I am planning to put on a shiver sc when they become available, which should complement the frame better (coincidentally, that’s what the 2002 ac-1 is coming with, if people haven’t heard yet). That should be a sweet bike. Funny enough, it is going to pretty much return to its intended state, which it is definitely best suited (not surprisingly!). My advice: don’t try and turn it into a serious freeride bike like I have, - unless giant strengthens the frame (which it appears they didn’t do, judging by the photos).
Fundamentally, it is not possible to expect a bike to do everything well; it’s like trying to get a 4wd (“suv” for you yanks (that has got to be the ultimate oxymoron in terms, except maybe ‘microsoft works’)) to keep up with a tvr (or corvette if you don’t know what that is). There has to be a compromise (and don’t cite the bmw x5 as an exception, since that doesn’t even stand a chance in hell of keeping up with a 540 in 99.99% of driving (x5 wastes fuel, etc, also)).
Anyway, I guess the point is, the ac isn’t perfect. The best freeride bike in my mind is probably the turner rfx, - but you pay a huge (and unjustifiable) premium for it. Even so, the turner is still compromised. If the ac did cost as much the turner, I’d say it was seriously flawed, - but it doesn’t. The only real plus (for what it’s worth) in a turner, uzzi, or whatever is the street cred. And I really don’t care enough to spend the cost of a whole bike on just a frame (which really isn’t that different). So despite all the complaining, I actually would recommend the ac for most riders, just don’t expect to be inspired (or able) to do a bender.
End lecture…
Happy ridin and go big | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt j
a Downhiller
from sydney,australia
Date Reviewed: August 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | various @ redhill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | supreme cycles | | Strengths: | rockshox pro deluxe,heyes are good,stable at speed. | | Weaknesses: | seat sucks,psylos are a bit to soft,cant upgrade to duel crown fork,chain falls off easily,cheesy rear derailleur hanger.wtb tyres are pretty average! | | Similar Products Used: | stinky | | Bike Setup: | azonic shorty stem,selle saddle,dmr v12's,single ring & chain guide,xt short cage rear der,intense 2.7's. | | Bottom Line: | the bike has alot going for it with some good components(for the money)although it has taken me a little while to get it feeling & working nice.i had alot of trouble in the beginning with breaking rear hangers,but now it all seems good.i think its a great ride for an introduction into free riding although, as you get more serious you may want some some better forks up front.
if you dont want to have to sell your car to buy a bike & you want something that you can ride up hills & still drop off the other side this bikes for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Downhiller
from Seattle, Wa, US of A
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Redmond | | Strengths: | Adjustable rear shocks, hayes brakes have treated me well, the bearings are good because you can replace them. | | Weaknesses: | SEAT is really uncomfortable, the pyslo xc front shock sometimes bottoms out over medium drops, the chain always comes off when you do a little drop or go over a root in the middle of the trail, seat post for little adjustment | | Similar Products Used: | no good bikes | | Bike Setup: | platform peddals, 6.0 inches of rear travel, hayes disc brakes | | Bottom Line: | It is a great bike for the price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter
a Weekend Warrior
from W. Van, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Upper/Lower Oilcan N.Shore | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Fairly light, climbs ok because of weight. | | Weaknesses: | Psylo front shock really sucks ass. Overall feel of the bike was scary with Psylo, factory tires. Needs lots of adjustments to make it rideable over slow steep drops. Gives you the "going over the handlebars" feeling on mild drops. Needs 2.7" front tire, Marzocchi 5-6" up front. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Delux, Brodie Diablo, Kona Chute | | Bike Setup: | Factory stock | | Bottom Line: | Need to swap out a few parts or make some serious adjustments to ride confidently. Bike has potential though. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Troy
a
from Ottawa
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | The adjustable rear suspention, Hayes discs, Hell bent bars. | | Weaknesses: | The tires have to soft of a side wall had to run realy high pressure, changed to Maxxis. Fork is a little soft but you can put stiffer spring in. LX rear derauler, it has an XT on the front and LX in the rear kinda backwards I think. Of course the seat sucks. Can't upgrade to a 8" disk the Psylo can't handle the extra tork, they should make stonger mounts on the fork then. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinkey, R.M Slayer | | Bike Setup: | Maxxis tires and downhill tudes, XT rear derauler, lock grips, Alian Wamb b1 pedels, Kooka rock ring, Italia seat. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great, I find myself going off bigger and bigger stuff and it keep sucking it up. This bike is very durable and a great all around ride. For you guyes who think it weighs to much it's a free ride bike if you don't like it go by a XC bike with 3" of travel. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle
a Downhiller
from Prince George B.C.
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Learn to Fly | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Olympia Cycle and Ski | | Strengths: | Bike rides great when it is not in the shop. Is good at climbing and decending. | | Weaknesses: | The way the seat post is set up so you can only move it a couple of inches. The seat sucks. My derailer mount broke three times in a day and I had to get a new swingarm but giant sent me one of an ac1 bike. one of my hayes was mounted crooked so the shop had to take a file to it. The reer hub has come loose a few times and the screws in the swingarm have to be tightened before and after every ride. My reer shock also has had something wrong with it since the day that I bought the bike somtimes it partially compresses and does not pop back up forcing me to get off my bike and do it manually. I have also had to get a new lever for the hayes diskes. when the swingarm was messed up the derailer boke. I think I bought a lemon. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Deelux, Specialized big hit, norco buzz and drop, Rocky mountain RM6, pipline and slayer some devinci bikes and various others. | | Bike Setup: | OURY grips, AC1 swingarm, one grey hayes lever, funn seat. | | Bottom Line: | It is a great bike I think I just bought one that was made on a friday afternoon. I will rate it good because when it is working it rides great. The bike is great for a cross country rider who isn;t afraid to fly down hills and try new things. Sometimes the bike makes alot of noise that is not a confidence builder other than that I would strongly suggest buying this bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nathan
a
from Whistler BC Canada
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Impossible to say. Too many amazing trails around here. | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Pemberton Bike Co. | | Strengths: | Hayes discs are a revalation. Frame works really well. Can't really feel too much flex when riding. Rides light for it's weight (which is low in it's class anyway). Rock Shox both work flawlessly. Confidence inspiring. | | Weaknesses: | Tyre sidewalls a little thin considering what the rest of the bike wants to do. DH tubes work well to stop pinch punctures from becoming an issue. Rear freehub gave out after a few weeks. Giant are aware of the problem and are replacing the hubs with XT, and paying for labour. Full points there. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain pipeline (test ride). Kona Mano Mano (owned 1 year). | | Bike Setup: | Pretzeled Rhino Light on front replaced with 321 disc. 8 spd (I've no need for 9 and mud sensetivity is an issue). Rokko 2.4 on front. DH tubes. ODI lockjaw grips. | | Bottom Line: | The saddle seems quite comfortable now... This bike has taken my riding places I really didn't expect in the last 2 1/2 months. Great weight/strength compromise. X/C to 3500ft descents are handled with ease, and extra beef means I don't have to mother it like the Mano Mano. I gain confidence every day, but I can still use it as transport at the same time. Overall spec the best at the price. Impressed with Giant's response to rear hub weakness outlined above. Seems born for BC trails. I have no doubt it'll be just as good when I'm back in the UK and will allow a new look at what's ridable. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Alexandria VA
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Patapsco, Bear Creek, shaeffer farms | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Pedal &spoke | | Strengths: | Everything! Adjustable travel from 4.5-6 inches, Hayes hydraulic brakes, beefy wheelset, frame thats ultra strong, and it even has a bolt on for a chain guide system | | Weaknesses: | Like everyone else has said, the seat is way uncomfortable. Can't wait to change it out. I thought the shimano peadals that came with it were junk too. Really hard to get in and out of. Switched those out to a set of platforms. | | Similar Products Used: | Had a Cdale super V900 for 3 years. Took test rides on a Specialized enduro pro, Rocky Mountain Edge, Cdale Jeckel sx, and Gt I drive | | Bike Setup: | Totally stock setup. For now at least | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks. I find myself trying things on this bike that I would never have considered on my old super V. Has no problem taking big hits and leaves me with a smile on my face after every downhill. There has been a lot of talk about flex in the rear end of these bikes, but honestly I havent noticed any myself. There is a weight issue, but who cares. It will get you there, just takes a little longer. If youre into long strenuous climbs , buy an NRS, or other xc bike. The AC2 has no problem doing a little xc riding though. Just not a racer. The psylo xc fork is a gem, but after a 2 inch travel headshock, what isn't? I keep it set on 5 inches, as well as the rear. Really well balanced ride. Think about it, psylo fork, hayes hydraulic brakes, and a bombproof frame with adjustable travel make for a bike thats a blast to ride. Ive been mt biking since 1994 and never knew it coould be this much fun. All for around 2 grand. GO GET ONE!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael David
a Downhiller
from Sherman Oaks, CA
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | hummingbird | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | cycology | | Strengths: | cost.COST.COST. rear suspension...sun rims...hayes. I added Junior T's cause I'll just yank them if I need warrenty work and it works PERFECTLY. The psylo sucks bad for launching and screwing up landings while the junior T just keeps kicking ass! | | Weaknesses: | just remove the seat already we all know it sucks. I replaced the bottom set of bolts in the rear arm with beefy steel costco bolt. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale barbeque model lasted less than 3 months. I broke so many parts I just couldn't stand it any more. | | Bike Setup: | AC2 with hell bent bar, azonic seat, thompson seatpost....and JUNIOR T's!!! | | Bottom Line: | Yeah it's not a Dare but I also have a couple thousand extra in my savings account which helps me catch big air knowing I can pay for er visits!!! Really though the recent reviews by the XC nazis made too much of the flex and climbing. I've found it climbs great (handles/climbs chumash better than the cannondale). Don't trust the high price snobs....I could have spent any amount of money but am really happy I purchased this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from Canada
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | I love this bike | | Weaknesses: | This is just one thing i wanted to tell people this thing will eat deralier hangers
Like i was on a ride doing nose manuals and the shifting was fine then it makes a noise i look down my delralier arm is in my spokes.
ive gone through two in two weaks hmmmmm | | Bottom Line: | Its sick buy one and ride with a spare hanger! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derrick Welsh
a Weekend Warrior
from VICTORIA B.C CANADA
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | nield road trailsand spectacle lake. | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | West shore bike shop.. | | Strengths: | Avid disks, marzocchi fornt forks, giant rear suspension and teh short stem that i got. | | Weaknesses: | Frame not welded around the shock mount. and rear deraileur. | | Similar Products Used: | none. | | Bike Setup: | its all stock cause i got it julyt 2nd 2001.
| | Bottom Line: | hey this bike is awesome so far the only problem i have is with the frames shock mount is not welded fully... i think any one who wants a sweet bike for an even sweeter price should get it but i wouldnt recomend goin bigger that 10 foot hucks!! this bike has good brakes and good forks and shocks and u can adjust to whatver u want! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Sudbury, Ontario
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Pinnacle Sports | | Strengths: | adjustable travel, adjustable shock, Hayes hydraulics, quality parts spec ('cept the rear derailleur), beefy gusseted frame, descends as smooth as butter, climbs well (despite recent reviews), handles drops nicely, pedals x-c no problem, great all round bike. | | Weaknesses: | The flex. I didn't believe the reviews until I saw it for myself, but it's definately there. The shock, despite it's adjustability, blew up within the first few weeks. The fork stanctions score easily which can be fixed with Lizard Skins. Maybe it's just me but the chain seems to fall off a hell of a lot, and yes it's the correct length, and no I'm not using any whacky gear combinations. Saddle. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Big Hit, Rocky Mountain Pipeline, Rocky Mountain Edge. | | Bike Setup: | Relatively stock. The saddle was removed before my ass even touched it following a test ride (Selle Italia). New bar (Race Face), new rear derailleur (XT), new seatpost (Race Face), Lizard Skins chainstay guard, new grips (ODI), new fork spring (yellow(soft)). | | Bottom Line: | It's the best bike I've owned, and I've worked for a hell of a lot of shops. Cash wasn't an issue for me as I work for a Giant dealer and I still chose the AC2, if that tells you anything. It rides x-c well, descends perfectly, drops nicely, climbs well, it's a great all round ride. I'll be upgrading the fork to a Z1 MCR, maybe the cranks when they blow up, but besides that, it's amazing. Sure, the flex is an issue, but what can you expect from a first generation bike? I've also heard that they've already found a retrofit for this?!?! If you're looking for a bike that won't limit your riding AT ALL, that will stand up to any abuse you throw at it, BUY THIS BIKE. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Christchurch, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere where the sun shines! | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction Cycles, Christchurch, NZ | | Strengths: | Adjustable rear suspension system (4.5-6 inches of travel)and adjustable rear shock. Sealed pivot bearings. Hayes Hydraulic Disc Brakes - so much stopping power that you'll have to resecure your eyeballs into their respective sockets! Built strong enough for the 'average' Weekend Warrior to 'fang' down a good Downhill Track and also cruise along a Cross Country track! | | Weaknesses: | Definitely the seat-totally uncomfortable, but then I'm still riding it! Seat post not strong enough for hard riding and original pedal quality does not match the bike. Something else to watch out for is; I had on one occasion the front disc come loose and then on another occasion the rear disc came loose. Not too good really, but the quick fix is to Loctite the screws in or get some screws with the heads drilled and single strand lockwire the heads together-which will impress your mates! | | Similar Products Used: | Scott Racing Comp | | Bike Setup: | I had the Shop change quite a few components when I made the decision to buy this bike, they included XT rear derailer, XT Shifter Pods, Easton Seat Post-which I did cut down to make Downhill riding easier and Keywin Downhill Clipless Pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike or 'weapon' as I'll call it, is just sensational! This full-suspension 'weapon' takes your riding to new dimensions and the great thing is; it's so 'forgiving'! It turns 'knarly' and 'rutty' tracks into 'highways' and no longer do you have to worry about 'eye-ball shake'! It'll handle 'drop-offs' just as easily as an up-hill climb. I have absolutely no problem with the Rock Shox Psylo XC and the Rock Shox Pro Delux. I looked at other bikes with this similiar set-up like GT, Mongoose and Rocky Mountain and for me this was the best value for money 'rig' taking into account all round component quality and frame size/set-up. Maybe a little more pricey here in NZ than elsewhere but still an awesome bike! You know you want one, now go and buy one! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyler
a Weekend Warrior
from Powell River B.C
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The Toaster | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Suncoast Cycles | | Strengths: | The Hayes discs, shock, Beefy frame. Has smooth landings off drops. Goes down sick chutes nicely. | | Weaknesses: | Had trouble with the hanger breaking fo rno apparent reason other than that i have had no problems with it. | | Similar Products Used: | RM6,pipeline | | Bike Setup: | stock except flat pedals and a tooth fairy in place of my third ring. | | Bottom Line: | This is an awesome deal. works great for downhill and freeride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gino Zamboni
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, Tx
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Austin Greenbelt | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | bought a demo from a Giant dealer rep | | Strengths: | Takes on any drop or hit, inspires confidence, looks extra kewl. The guys want it and the chicks dig it. | | Weaknesses: | a little heavy, but oh well. The saddle left me feeling like I was in jail for a date or two | | Bottom Line: | I am so totally in love with this ride. I am taking lines I was walking before. I have nailed some serious rocks coming out of corners and didn't skip a beat. This bike has me dusting my buddies. As a bonus I don't feel beat to hell when I'm through since the sweet thing took all the abuse for me.
Buy this ride. You will never regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Graham
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Boogeyman | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Where do I start? Hates brakes, great rear shock, will eat up anything out there | | Weaknesses: | Seat tube (need to ride with two posts if you want to climb anything) | | Similar Products Used: | Stink 5, Spice | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except dumped the big ring and put on bash guard | | Bottom Line: | This bike will eat up anything out there. I used to be a bit tentative when I rode but now I just point the bike in the right drection and go. The AC2 will take anything you throw its way, from the technical single track to the 6 foot drops, the Psylos on the front can bottom out fairly easily though. This is a great North Shore bike. The adjustable pro delux on the back makes climbing easy. Best bike out there for the value. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
knobby
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada
Date Reviewed: June 20, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Yogi and Bubu | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | T&T Pro Bikes | | Strengths: | frame,everything. | | Weaknesses: | seat | | Similar Products Used: | stinky,Brodie thumper | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | Damn good climber for the weight and travel.Truly an All Conditions bike.Climbs better that my Rocky Mountain element.This is the bike of the year(or should be)One happy customer here. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dean
a Weekend Warrior
from WA, Australia
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Best points are;
Hayes Disc Brakes - Amazing
Pro Deluxe Rear Shock - Plush and adjustable
Frame - Looks to be built tough
Full sealed bearings in suspension linkages
Adjustable rear suspension travel (4.5" - 6") | | Weaknesses: | Seat post too short for me (Im 6'4")
Usual new bike teething problems (had to bleed brakes, tighten bottom susp pivot, replace dodgy middle chain ring) | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR Enduro Pro, Kona Stinky range (way more $$$ in Aus) | | Bike Setup: | Stock at the moment, getting a longer seat post (Thompson) | | Bottom Line: | For the money, this bike is awesome. In the market place at the moment, there seems to be few true "freeride" bikes around. This thing looks to be buit tough (yeah ok its not full xc race light but who cares), has good gear on it, hayes, rs pro deluxe, rs psylo xc, deore lx or better, and it fits the price point (in Australia anyhow).
So far Ive given it a flogging doing downhill and single track, taken it to the skate park and the bmx track and so far nothing to complain about. Yeah OK big fat platform pedals could be OK but then what to do when going single track? More front travel? Dont need it yet. As for its XC capabilites - Will find out when I race it next week! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a
from BC
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | 6 inches of plush adjustable travel, HAYES disc brakes | | Weaknesses: | 3 Main Problems: 1.) Limited adjustment for the seat post. Anyone know where you can get a telescopic post for this thing? 2.) Can't upgrade to a dual crown fork without voiding the warranty. 3.) The Psylo XC is terrible. If you are planning on doing any real drops or hucks do yourself a favour and get a bomber.
The WTB tires don't have the stiff sidewalls of a Maxxis so you have to run high air pressure but not a big deal. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Deluxe, Norco VPS, Rocky Mtn Pipeline | | Bike Setup: | ditched the SPD's for flats and swapped the big ring for a ring god | | Bottom Line: | Great value. Can't really find anything else that gives you all the components for this price. Swap the Psylo for a real fork and you are in business. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean Symons
a Weekend Warrior
from North Vancouver, B.C. Canada
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | BSP North Van | | Strengths: | Fully adjustable suspension, strong frame, pedals well and goes downhill even better, Hayes disc brakes(love them) | | Weaknesses: | Stock seat sucks, MTB Motoraptor tires aren't the best for North Shore riding, would rather ride Maxxis High Rollers | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Dee-Lux, Specialized Big Hit, Norco VPS | | Bike Setup: | Wellgo flat pedals, Kooka Crankcase(rockring), Full XT, Axiom telescopic seatpost | | Bottom Line: | This bike is by far the best bike you will find in it's price range. It's got the adjustability to ride on or off everything. It doesn't weight that much if you compare it to similar bikes on the market, in fact it's a little bit lighter. If your a big guy this bike is made for you, I'm 6'4 and 200 lbs and find that this bike can handle anything I can dish out on it. I tried lots of bikes before I bought this one, and have no regrets about buying it. Get yourself one you'll love it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A.J.
a Downhiller
from kurnell,nsw,australia
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | chain reaction cronulla | | Strengths: | solid frame,suspension adjustability and smoothness,brakes ,handleing,over all design and value. | | Weaknesses: | pedals,tyres(sidewalls too thin)and that damned seat! | | Similar Products Used: | specialised big hit,norco buzz and dbr x2. | | Bike Setup: | azonic shorty stem,primo super tenderisor pedals,black spire bash guard,dmr chainstay roller,azonic kevlar seat and michelin comp dh tyres (2.5 front,2.2 rear) | | Bottom Line: | This is a versatile bike that can take a pounding.First thing is burn that seat when you buy this bike then change the pedals if you plan to downhill or jump big dropoffs.The bike is very nice to ride and excellent value for money.It beats anything close to it for the money.There is no need to upgrade that much, unless you start to get really serious.
I could live with a pretty standard ac2 (except for the seat) but I am a heavy guy (115kg) and tend to punish my bikes, so my upgrades are there because its what suits my riding.I really enjoy this bike and would advise anyone getting a dual suspension bike for the first time to buy this bike.It is just a versatile bike that will do anything you ask and you can keep for years to come as it does everything you need,takes the punishment and asks for more.Ride it and enjoy it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Audo Hardcore
a Downhiller
from Orem, UT
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | All Downhill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Online | | Strengths: | This is my first full sup bike, but I have ridden many. Hayes brakes..... Need I say more. RockShox Pro Deluxe... Great rear shock. I can take 3-4 foot drops like I'm landing on a pillow. Rear triangle is very stiff. | | Weaknesses: | Shim. Shim. Shim. What is the deal with a shim in the seat post hole. why couldn't they just put the right seat post in there? I changed my cranks, RF downhill I wanted somthing stronger. Psylo XC....... That fork sucks. I had a Marzocchi Z1 on my last bike and going from that to the psylo... man thats like going from a BMW to a pinto... Seat I have a Titac DH seat. | | Similar Products Used: | Yeti, Schwinn | | Bike Setup: | RF cranks,bars,stem. Thompson Elite post, Sram 9.0 Grip shift and rear der. XT front der. | | Bottom Line: | The over all bike is great. Just some of the specs arent so good. I give the bike a great rating but dont get me wrong it need some new comps, before its ready to ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary
a Downhiller
from Babylon,New York,USA
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Rocky Point, Cathedral Pines,local trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Deer Park Cycles | | Strengths: | The way the bike is designed and the combination of everything. From the rock shox pro delux rear shock to the psylos front forks.They both perform excellent. The bike jumps, descends and corners great. It's comfortable to ride, whether on a xc trail or a big hit trail. It feels strong and it is. | | Weaknesses: | I really do not find a weakness. I know it's alittle heavy,it's not that much heavier, your talking about a few pounds. It more than makes up for it. I look at it this way, I will get stronger and more fit. | | Similar Products Used: | GT steel hardtail & X motocross racer. | | Bike Setup: | Specialized body geometry saddle. Wellgo platform pedals.Mountain speed rear spring. | | Bottom Line: | I've been waiting for a long time to buy a full suspension bike. I just did not find one that was worth buying. I wanted a bike I could ride on the trails and also get crazy on(i.e. jump, down hill etc.).I'm 6'4" tall and 210 lbs, so I wanted a bike that would take a beat'n. Also, I come from a motocross background, so my riding style reflects that. If I rode some other bikes the way I ride the Giant AC 2, they would break, no doubt. I have read about the AC 2 having frame flex, I do not know where they got that from? I feel the AC 2 is a great all around Mountain bike and for the money you can't go wrong thats just a bonus. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave na
a Downhiller
from Ontario
Date Reviewed: May 26, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Cyclepath Oakville | | Strengths: | Everything pretty much | | Weaknesses: | Seat | | Similar Products Used: | RM6, Bullet, Pipline, Ac1, ect... all good freeride and dh bikes | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Kore bars, Bashguard(soon), Primo pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is sick 6' of travel. a beefy frame what more do you want. the prodeluxe shock owns i mean myles rockwell became the world cup dh campion on it. The bike takes all massive hits i give it. Does DH racing without protest.
This bike owns Go Buy one!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ANT://
a
from Long Island, New York
Date Reviewed: May 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Stillwell, Bethpage, Rocky Point, Urban Rides | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Brands Cycle | | Strengths: | suspension adjustability, frame durability, geometry is sweet for descents and drops, Hayes discs, plush suspension, climbs up hills and goes down them, looks like a 2 wheeled monster truck. | | Weaknesses: | tires don't corner very well but they are great for drops (wtb motoraptor 2.4"), Its kinda heavy, the front wheel is hard to keep on the ground on steep climbs, I don't ride clipless pedals so I swapped the stock ones for some large platforms at the time of purchase, I stripped a tooth off of the middle chainring (LX) but the dealer gave me a new one right away, the seat is the next thing to be replaced. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky, Santa Cruz Bullit, Specialized Enduro, Trek VRX 300 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Wellgo b-38 platfom pedals... and fork boots... | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great if you are doing a mix of riding crosscountry/freeride/urban/downhill and you don't like pushing your rig up the hill to do it again... the suspension soaks up bumps and is very forgiving on drops... this bike keeps up with my friends on cross country bikes and passes them on the downhills... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Trudeau
a Weekend Warrior
from Coquitlam, BC. Canada
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Blak Dog Bikes | | Strengths: | Great Spec and Value. Very similar to the KONA Stinky Dee-Lux (but,way cheaper). This Bike will take anything you throw at it and it still a asks for more.It fixes what you do wrong, i.e. wrong line and it makes you believe you're invincible(you're not). | | Weaknesses: | You better be a a hell of a hardass if you plan to keep the Koski saddle. It's like riding a piece of 2" x 4" (minus the splinters).
| | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain Element, RM Pipeline, Kona Stinky | | Bike Setup: | Upspec'ed to the following parts, XT Crank, XT Derailler, Rocket Shifters, Rock Ring, Platforms. | | Bottom Line: | Love it,,Love it,,Love it,,. I am a better rider and will continue to get better. The bikes begs you to try newer, scary lines and it helps you beat them. Upspec your parts right out of the gate. The Psylo is super smooth. Get a set of lizard skins to protect the stantions. I've done a lot of climbing on this bike and it's very respectable. You won't beat the hardtails to the top ,but, you'll get there before they finish their powerbars. Say goodbye to everyone before you start down, because unless you plan on stopping , you'll be listening to cd's in parking lot while waiting for them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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