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Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Pennsylvania
Date Reviewed: April 25, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$641.00 | | Purchased At: | Won off of Ebay | | Strengths: | NRS rear suspension system works as advertised, climbs wonderful. | | Weaknesses: | Suntour crankset can be noisy and does not shift through the three chain rings well, will be my first upgrade | | Similar Products Used: | Giant XCR3000, Kona Stinky | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I have always wanted an NRS bike, and now finally have one. After owning other FS bikes and hardtails and a rigid single speed, I can say that this bike is the epitome of a good all around XC bike, comfortable, no bob rear suspension, quick handling and has room for alot of upgrades, although performs well in it's stock state. I was lucky to find this bike on Ebay, it had only been ridden a few times because of an injury. I am looking forward to many memorable rides on this bike. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ted
a Cross Country Rider
from Olympia, WA
Date Reviewed: December 7, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | capital peak trail | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | demo bike from Bike shop | | Strengths: | The NRS system is amazing at not bobbing during the climbs. | | Weaknesses: | The front fork (judy) is not as strong as I would like. I upgraded to a Manitou Black and it made all the difference in the world. | | Similar Products Used: | I rode hardtails before and this is the best of both worlds, it climbs like a hardtail and flies downhill like a full suspension. | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Black fork, Avid mechanical disk brakes, UST tubeless wheels. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great all-round bike that can climb with the best of them. I would recommend the NRS1 or NRS2 based on the components offered on the bikes. I love the Avid disk brakes and the Manitou Black forks. I just couldn't pass up the great price on this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bikethrasher
a Racer
from QLD Australia
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Strengths: | everything | | Weaknesses: | goddamb rear deralier hangers brken so many times, also the chainrings are pressed | | Similar Products Used: | epic and many sweet XC bikes | | Bike Setup: | standard | | Bottom Line: | well as my name says i thrash bikes. this is my first real mountain bike and i love it. its taken me of 2 meter flatland drops and only poped front tube (i knew it was to hard inflated!). just fineshed my first XC season and am going to DH the bike kicked ass, no bob sweet ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Racer
from Pensacola, Florida
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | www.porc.org | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Stong, quick, climbs like a hard-tail but sticks to the trail like a FS. | | Weaknesses: | none found | | Similar Products Used: | Treak Fuel | | Bike Setup: | Standard setup | | Bottom Line: | I was a anti-FS until I rode this bike. I was suprised at the way the suspension seems to automatically "lock-out" on those standing climbs or hard sprints. My average speed has increased significantly. Excellent frame design. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal QC
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Locals Only | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | Rather not give them free advertising !! | | Strengths: | Components, NRS feature | | Weaknesses: | Thin frame tubing, ghost-shifts, and &)&#! dealers not knowing the bikes they sell. Can be time consuming to dial in. This is not a low maintenance rig. | | Similar Products Used: | Sugar, iDrive, Trek Fuel 80 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except, Avid Speed Dial 7's, Mavic 223's on Shimano Discs, HMX Disc Brakes, LX Crankset | | Bottom Line: | Choose your dealer carefully as you want product knowledge and warranty support. My NRS has an ongoing "ghost-shifting" problem which makes repair shops really happy ($$$$$$$$$$$).
I have an outstanding warranty issue with Giant and will write more after judging their level of customer support. Getting the bike is only half of the service commitment. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Blake
a Cross Country Rider
from Knoxville, TN
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Norris | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | Friend | | Strengths: | WOW...where should I start?! Almost everything on this bike is a strength...but the frame and the price (as compared to others). | | Weaknesses: | Very few weaknesses...but I would say the stock Judy front fork and the SID rear shock are the lowest points on this bike...EXCEPT for the tires. You MUST get new tires, because the stock Michelin tires won't corner well if your life depended on it! | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale m400, Trek Fuel | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z.1 front, Fox Van. Rear, XT drivetrain, XT shifters, XT brakes, SRAM 9.0 cassette, and a very comfortable, yet very cheap, CODA saddle. | | Bottom Line: | If you have an opportunity to pick one of these up, DO NOT HESITATE. The only difference between the NRS 3,2,1 and AIR is the component group, and you can outfit this baby with whatever you like! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Merrick, NY, USA
Date Reviewed: November 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Stillwell Woods | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$675.00 | | Purchased At: | Andy's Cycle, Keene, NH | | Strengths: | Overall good quality. Smooth shifting. Rides like a hardtail - No BOB!!! Great feel to the suspension. | | Weaknesses: | Front fork Judy C a little noisy and preload adjuster knob made kind of crappy. | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose hardtail, Mongoose full suspension Zero-G, and Gary Fisher hardtail. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I LOVE this bike. Although not top of the line, all of the componentry works very well. The Rock Shox rear shock works a thousand times better than the coil shock on my Mongoose. Not only is there no bob, the way the shock absorbs a hit and the smooth rebound makes it sooooo much better than the Mongoose coil shock. The no bob is probably due mostly to the NRS frame design, which is both light, quality made, and very strong. Shifting and riding is incredibly smooth. My only problem is when the chain is on the middle chainring and the smallest sprocket it makes a little noise. I haven't had this looked at and probably wont even bother it's so minor. I also had a problem with the Rock shox fork. The preload adjuster knob on the right side broke. Whatever the knob is attached to inside the fork cracked and the knob just spins so the right side is stuck in the stiffest setting. This is fine because that's how I like it and would have left it that way for 95% of my riding. Also I must say excellent customer service at Rock Shox. One quick phone call and they are sending me a new fork so I don't have to be hassled(Excellent, now I have a free back up). Bottom line, in my opinion this is an excellent bike that I would highly recommend. I'm a beginner/intermediate rider who mainly rides XC. I would highly recommend buying a left over for any bike, as the savings on a left over appear to outweigh the upgrades on a new model. I based my value rating on this bike being a left over. At full price I would take away one Flamin Chili. Also, FYI there is no sales tax in NH which made this deal even sweeter. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Hardwood hills (TNT) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction | | Strengths: | Great Suspspension Design, Good overall COmponents for the Money, Light for class. | | Weaknesses: | Seat is a little un comfortable, Front fork (Judy C) is a lttle noisy. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher sugar 4+, Specialized enduro, Trek fuel, Kona Mahisomthing | | Bike Setup: | Stock,thinking of changing for to a 99' Judy xc LT... | | Bottom Line: | I was looking for a good bike that can do EVERYTHING.... And Im pretty sure this is the only bike that will do it... It takes drops (not big... but rising) Take climbs effortlessly (i my be exadgerating) and ride beutifly (that im not)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JOHN
a Cross Country Rider
from piketon, ohio
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | LOCAL BIKE SHOP | | Strengths: | handles great,climbs great,no pedal induced bobbing | | Weaknesses: | poor seat,could ride a little more plush over the rough stuff | | Similar Products Used: | none,first full suspension bike | | Bike Setup: | xt brakes and levers,xt rear der.,irc mythos xc tires,wtb speedv saddle | | Bottom Line: | switched from a cannondale hardtail and i couldn't be happier. this bike climbs like a hardtail but smooths out the rough stuff and provides a more comfortable ride. the stock components seem to work fine as long as you keep them adjusted properly. the judy c fork needs to be upgraded but is reliable. for the money this bike is an extremely good value for anyone looking for a good quality full suspension bike. buy one and give it a try!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeffrey Stuart
a Weekend Warrior
from Albuquerque, New Mexico, US
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Galloping Goose in Telluride CO | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike City | | Strengths: | Price. Great rear shock and suspension system.Front Shock
Shimono clipless pedals | | Weaknesses: | Front Derailer has minor adjust ment problems. | | Similar Products Used: | NONE first full suspension bike | | Bike Setup: | great | | Bottom Line: | This is the best bike I have ever owned and I would like to upgrade a few componets.This is the best bike for mountain biking. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jack Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from North Shore, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | North Shore Trails | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | BSP Lynn Valley | | Strengths: | Light, great climber, fast, great suspension | | Weaknesses: | I should have got disc brakes! But I am content with V | | Similar Products Used: | Specialised (>$), Giant single pivot something (like a tank!) | | Bike Setup: | Changed clipless pedal for platforms, too scared to clip in for the North Shore | | Bottom Line: | I'm in love! I almost bought a single pivot big North Shore downhill bike. For my weight 140#, that would have been stupid. I now fly by the big-bikes on my way up and the dual suspension takes all the North Shore downhill trails great. I avoid the big drops though, fear=wisdom! | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rao
a Cross Country Rider
from Jersey City
Date Reviewed: April 19, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | haven't found one yet | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Bercshire bike & blade | | Strengths: | Great looking frame. Not all that light but it gets the job done. Components are cheap but I'll soon replace them all with time. | | Weaknesses: | The bike is tough to a certain extend (if only I try not to abuse the poor thing) I broke the front derailleurs the first couple of weeks. The preplacement derailleurs (Shimano deore XL) really sucks. The gears change involunterily especicialy during hard climbs. some times they won't change at all -- that's when I curse the hell out of it- | | Similar Products Used: | Canondale M 700 | | Bike Setup: | Giant XTC NRS 3 full suspension-it's a beauty- | | Bottom Line: | The frame is great but the components are realy crapy. Over all, it's a great bike. It can handle all the abuse I have to offer- | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ANDREW BARTLETT
a Cross Country Rider
from ST.JONH'S, NEWFOUNDLAND,CANADA
Date Reviewed: April 5, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | oliver's pd trail | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Earle Industries | | Strengths: | Top of the line frame. Good suspension (judy xc,sid rear shock). Brake levers
| | Weaknesses: | seat is hard on the butt. SUNTOUR crank | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | Good bike for the money. Good frame for up grades. good suspension, good tires. You'll need to replace the Crank if you don't take care of it already bent the teeth in it once fixed it's self over time | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tommy (aka "Hack") T.
a Cross Country Rider
from Fayetteville(Fort Bragg), NC, USA
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chicken Road "Big Loop" and "Little Down" | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Price for the product! NRS Frame, Shimano Mid-end components, Michelin Widegripper Comp tires, Rock Shox Sid XC (rear),a free shock-pump. | | Weaknesses: | Rock Shox Judy C Fork... good but could have been a step better. The Koski Contour saddle is great if your under 170lbs, otherwise... ouch on those long rides. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel 80, Trek 8000, Specialized Stumpjumper M4, Shwinn Moab | | Bike Setup: | Factory except for the "Terry Men's Liberator" saddle. | | Bottom Line: | The NRS Frame is awesome! Hit the trails and watch the full-suspension take the pain for you! Climbs nice and XC downhill's super! The NRS gives you the cushion when ya hit stuff but also gives ZERO sag/bounce when pedaling like a mad-dog. Weighting 210 lbs. I've dropped in from 4' over and over, put it throught numerous miles of rough downhill XC, and crashed like a stuntman... thru it all NOT 1 prob! "An adventureous cross country bikers machine!" Built to take it and give performance! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
S K Gallaway
a Weekend Warrior
from Olympic Peninsula, WA
Date Reviewed: March 15, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Foothill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | TWC Moab | | Strengths: | Appearance; Weight; NRS | | Weaknesses: | Swingarm needed replacing; brakes
| | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Richey Comp Crank and Richey seat | | Bottom Line: | First and foremost, the dealer support was and is awesome. I bought the bike a year old, and it had some obvious use. After going for a few rides, the wheel started leaning towards the swingarm. I tried my LBS and they said the swingarm was slightly torqued. I tried it again and had the same effect. I contacted TWC in Moab, they called Giant, and I will be getting a 2002 NRS 3 frame in its entirity next week. I am very impressed with Giant and TWC for the support. For what little I have rode on the bike it is very light for the large frame, although I will upgrade the brake levers as they leave something to be desired for steep descents. I strongly recommend this bike as a step up from a hardtail, the suspension kicks a## - especially on the climbs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Newark, Delaware, USA
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Keystone, Colorado! | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | 800 | | Strengths: | Feels light (don't know true weight). Rear suspension is there when you need it, to take edge off of hits. Excellent climber - maintains traction.
Price paid makes it unbeatable value! | | Weaknesses: | Few niggling QC issues - bottom water bottle mounts came stripped from the factory - don't use them anywy. Front brake cable snagged on dtem bolt heads. Slow turning geometry in tight Eastern US singletrack. | | Bike Setup: | Duke SL fork (recommended!)
Selle Italia Flite Trans-Am
Thomson seatpost.
Otherwise stock. | | Bottom Line: | Don't think anything could touch the value, paid $800 as a 2001 leftover. With Duke SL (Ebay)and new seat/seatpost, still less than $1000 invested!
Rear suspension could never be called plush, but takes the edge off medium and large hits. Does not bob!!!
Bike feels very solid and forgiving, stable on fast terrain, but slightly slow-steering in real tight woods. Have already cut-down bars to help this.
Higher maintenance than my old hardtail. Need to check torque on rear linkage points frequently and SID rear shock needs air tweaks before every ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
RYAN DANTINO
a Weekend Warrior
from FORT COLLINS, CO
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | ANYWHERE AROUND HORSETOOTH | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | ROCK N ROAD | | Strengths: | THE PRICE IS GREAT FOR A FULL SUSPENSION OF THIS QUALITY. I LOVE THE THE AMOUNT OF TRAVEL. | | Weaknesses: | ORIGINAL TIRES, SEAT, AND DERAILEURS ARENT VERY GOOD. PERFORMANCE OF THE FRONT SHOCK SEEMS A LITTLE WEAK. BUT YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. THE HANDLING IS PRETTY GOOD EXCEPT FOR THE HANDLEBARS MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE YOURE DRIVING AN OLD CHEVY | | Similar Products Used: | FIRST FULL SUSPEND | | Bike Setup: | XTR DERAILEURS, EASTON SEAT POST, SELLE ITALIA TI FLIGHT SEAT REPLACED STOCK ITEMS. | | Bottom Line: | I REALLY LIKE THIS BIKE. I WAS WEARY OF BUYING A GIANT BUT THE BIKE HAS PROVED ITS WORTH. THE IS A GOOD FIRST FULL SUSPENSION MTN BIKE. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Javier
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami, Fl
Date Reviewed: March 2, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Nrs system is very nice once the shock is set correctly. SID rear is very nice. LX rear working just fine. | | Weaknesses: | Judy C makes a squeeky sound every now and then. This fork really doesnt impress me. Looking to upgrade to either a ROCK SHOX DUKE SL or a MANITOU BLACK ELITE. | | Similar Products Used: | Stumpjumper FSR, GT hardtail with Manitou SXR-TI. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for seat. Specialized Body Geometry Comp. | | Bottom Line: | Once I spoke with Rock Shox and got the Sid set properly the bike rides wonderful. Climbs better than my hardtail and decends better than anything I have ridden. Nice the Judy to be upgraded soon. Tires at first seemed to thin but now I have adjusted to them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron
a Weekend Warrior
from Chino Hills, Ca.
Date Reviewed: February 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chino hills state park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | $$$$ | | Weaknesses: | Front derailleur not crisp shifting. Rear suspension locks up on hard braking. Thin wall frame tubes. | | Similar Products Used: | specialized stumpjumper fsr w/ betd links, schwinn s20 | | Bike Setup: | Rock shox sid, Truvativ stylo team crankset, thomson seatpost & stem, selle italia trans-am saddle, easton monkeylite bar, rolf urraco wheels | | Bottom Line: | Good bike for hardtail hold-outs but not a true full active suspension. It climbs as well as my other bikes but I prefer the specialized stumpjumper for overall performance. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan
Date Reviewed: February 1, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | NRS NRS NRS...awesome suspension design, a real pleasure to ride. Hills are just as easy as they were on my hardtail, and the 1400 tree roots I run over on my usual trail get absorbed pretty well. Handles incredibly well. Shaves minutes off...and now that I've added discs, I'm ready to go for this summer. And on top of that it isn't extremely heavy. Helluva bike. | | Weaknesses: | Koski seat is the rough equivalent to having your bum bouncing off a brick for the duration of the trail. Except that the seat might be a little lighter than a brick. Lx rear took forever to get in adjustment after break-in...it seems ok now. Frame tubing is thin. Handlebars are so wide they don't fit between trees on the trail (trimmed them down, obviously). | | Similar Products Used: | Kona hardtail (this is my first FS) | | Bike Setup: | All stock except I've added avid mechanicals for the new year | | Bottom Line: | One sweet bike. Trails seem easier now that I have this instead of the hardtail...and I haven't broken any bones whilst riding this bike, which I can't say for my old hardtail (not meant to be a rip on Kona...my old bike was a low-end Kona that I abused and rode too fast on too steep of a hill). I'm really glad a buddy of mine at the LBS talked me into this bike over the Warp I was considering. Well worth the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trevor
a Cross Country Rider
from Silver Spring MD
Date Reviewed: January 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Cabin John - Potomac Maryland | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$849.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bike in Rockville | | Strengths: | This bike has many! Price was a major factor in buying this bike, it was discounted to $900 because its 2001, they were trying to get rid of it. Plus an extra 50 off because there was a small dent in the top tube, cosmetic only, but beware, because the tubing is so light it may dent easier.
Strengths-
Super light, this bike is only a few lbs more than my KHS hardtail, and I don't notice a difference. Much lighter than similarly priced GT i-Drives.
The rear suspension works flawlessly, no bobbing/sag if you adjust it correctly to your weight. The bike also handles really well, there is no loss in my climbing abilities, this bike climbs like a goat! | | Weaknesses: | Most components pretty bad, the stock handlebar is a riser and too wide I think, the seat is also pretty hard. The Judy C front shock is also pretty low-end, it does the job but its heavy and not much travel(thats why I replaced it, see bike setup)
The chain also slaps the chain stays alot because they are closer to it than normal due to fs design, but all you got to do is slap an xl lizard skin around the chainstay and you'll be fine. | | Similar Products Used: | First FS | | Bike Setup: | stock except for stem and handlebars, I replaced them with KORE Lite 1 stem and non-riser handlebars. I also replaced the Judy C front shock right away, got a Psylo SL 2002, very plush, very adjustable. | | Bottom Line: | A great FS bike for cross-country/trail riding. It can take fast, technical descents, and some drops, but this bike is NOT to be used for freeride/downhill, it just isn't strong enough/not enough rear travel for that. I suggest replacing the front fork, however, if you want to do any kind of drops, the Psylo gives me pleanty of travel and rigidity in the front to take bigger hits then I could have with the Judy. A great xc bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew C
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia, Vic, Melbourne
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | churchill park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Ashburton Cycles | | Strengths: | No Bobbing, good colour scheme, accelerates well, good frame geometry...front brake doesn't lock up and don't go over the handlebars. | | Weaknesses: | handlebars too wide. I don't like the shim...gets annoying when adjusting seat. seat't a bit hard . the standard brake pads that come on the Avid SD3's ware too quickly and leave black stuff on rims. | | Similar Products Used: | first FS bike | | Bike Setup: | stock except for Tomac barends, Oury grips, armour-dillo. | | Bottom Line: | great bike for the money. if you want a FS bike that doesn't bob get it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: December 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | BT | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$830.00 | | Purchased At: | HL | | Strengths: | really light frame for the price u r getting, components fairly ok. When set up according to instructions, ZERO BOB, whether seated or standing. Geometry is good for XC. Travel is quite generous. btw, what is pedal kickback/drop away? | | Weaknesses: | shock extends under power>>less responsive to bumps when pedalling. Shock not very active compared with most full sus bikes. frame tube is very very thin. cranks are crappy suntours | | Similar Products Used: | Demoed stumpjumper FSR, SC superlight, bullit, idrive, mongoose MGX. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for change of tires to trailblasters 2.1/1.8 (i swop around) and saddle to specialized BG comp. here, the NRS 3 comes with judy C instead of judy XC =P... | | Bottom Line: | I think it was a good buy, and as my last bike was a hardtail, i find this bike very comfortable, despite it's lack of plushness. I have endoed once and dropped it a few times, only scratches so far, so just ride and don't worry about the frame cracking. the downtube has also been submitted to abuse from gravel chips about 1/2 to 1 inch long, one or two minor scratches from those. As long as you don't abuse it by riding 10 foot dropoffs, it should hold up for quite some time. This bike can also be setup with sag, which makes for a very comfortable ride if u can stand the bobbing. For me, i just increased the -ve pressure in the rear shock to about 80 psi, plusher travel with no sag and almost no bob. I'll give it 5 peppers for the great frame, which is the same as the NRS 1,2 and NRS air. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Los
a Cross Country Rider
from Hamilton,Ont. Canada
Date Reviewed: November 14, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Main Cycle | | Strengths: | Lightweight, good spec for the $$,suspension works as they say it does | | Weaknesses: | Thin-wall tubes a little scary but I haven't had any problem
what-so ever | | Similar Products Used: | first FS rig | | Bike Setup: | stock except seat(bontrager) and crank (purchased a TruVativ Firex) | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome. Had a hardtail before which got my skills up but now that I made the switch to FS, everything is just that much more easy to go through and I can go faster (confidence inspiring). I like the technical single-track and downhill and this bike takes everything. I have fallen hard a couple of times and haven't dented the frame at all. If your worried about the frame (as I was at first) don't!! As for some people (below) saying that the frame has cracked, WHAT THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN DOING TO THE BIKE??? This is a cross-country and i would even say a light freeride bike, not for big hits or crazy downhills (there is obviously other bikes for that). Anyways, this bike is definitely worth the money and you will love it! Swap the seat and the crank (pretty cheap and weak) if you can. I couldn't afford the Raceface crank but went with the Truvativ (good crank for the $$).
Giant has made a great bike and for the money you can't beat it...
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bike guy
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: November 12, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | cyclepath, 1500$ cnd | | Strengths: | Handles nicely
Have not busted it yet
The nrs system works nicely as long as the shock is not set too soft(I ride with it hard to prevent bottoming it out on hard hits) | | Weaknesses: | My fork makes an odd noise now....time for a rebuild
The berings come loose every 100 hours of riding
The chainrings dont last that long
The seat sucks
The rims arent strong enough for the abuse i give them | | Similar Products Used: | everything i could get my hands on | | Bike Setup: | stock except for replacement parts | | Bottom Line: | After 4000 km of abuse....i have only had minor problems with it...it has stood up to many 50 kph+ crashes and downhills well for a cross country bike...i seriously recommend it to anyone looking for a trail bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Landon Monholland
a Weekend Warrior
from Branson Mo
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Busiek State Forest (hidden single track) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Down Hill Bikes and Accesories | | Strengths: | The bike im reviewing is a 2002, This bike does not bob. I switched to this bike after riding a 24 lb Giant Hardtail. I only slightly notice the xtra weight. Energy loss from pedaling is non excistent. The xtra squish from the suspension more than makes up for the added weight. I love this bike!!!
I work at a bike shop so price was not an issue with this bike. Actually it is, You will allways get the best bang for your buck with a Giant. | | Weaknesses: | My headset creaks and I have to tighten it now and then. I bent the crappy chainrings on the first day. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX hardtail, Warp ds 1, Yukon se, trek 700,trek 9.8, Diamond Back xr8, Giant AC Air, Giant Rincon, full suspension wal-mart bike--(everybodys gotta start somewhere) | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi 100mm fork, Avid Mechanical Disks, WTB wheels and XT disk hubs, Azonic Riser Bars, Motoraptor Tires, T.H.E. fender with the sticker taken off because they sell those fenders in walmart--Toby Henderson is a sellout, | | Bottom Line: | Value, no bob, can be made fairly light. Awesome climber, even better downhill--isnt everything!!
In other reviews people have been saying how they did away with the "stupid seat shim" and just put in a 30.8 seatpost. I also did that but then my Giant Rep told me that the shim is there for a reason, to flex a little bit. He said that they have been getting frames back that have a cracked seat tube because people are running the bigger posts. Giant will not waranty your frame if you use a bigger post without the shim. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shakey
a Weekend Warrior
from Mesa, AZ
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Hawes Road Loops | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$930.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Warehouse | | Strengths: | Love the suspension! | | Weaknesses: | Tires suck on the loose rocky stuff out here and had to be replaced after 100 miles because they started to split open at the sides. The seat sucks too! | | Similar Products Used: | Bianchi hard tail. | | Bike Setup: | Standard except put Mytho SXC 2.1's on it. | | Bottom Line: | This is my first full suspension bike and I love it. I climb as well, if not, better than I did on my hard tail. I have had a little trouble with chain suck. Best bike for the $$$$. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Big B
a Weekend Warrior
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: October 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all locals | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Catonsville Bike Shop | | Strengths: | NO BOB. I am a heavier rider and this bike handles my weight very well. | | Weaknesses: | Seat. Rims. Crank. | | Similar Products Used: | Fuel, Warp, Mongoose blk diamond | | Bike Setup: | Replaced seat, cut bars, swaped forks Judys could not handle
my weight--bottomed out. I upgraded to a manitou x-vert air--lov'n it. Hutchinson 2.1" tires. Avid discs. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the $$$$. Gave me confidence and ability to climb the toughest, most technical terrain. Going down is now a pleasure. At times you do not realize how fast you are actually moving. Buy this bike if are interested in a good XC/ trail bike that can handle a variety of terrain and abuse. I have jumped, dropped, and rolled over almost anything you can imagine (3- 6ft). Given that I weigh 215- 230lbs this bike is a perfect match for a first time FS buyer or even a old timer like myself whose body can't handle the roughness of a hardtail. Bottom line: giant has made a great FS bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Newcastle, Australia
Date Reviewed: October 21, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Glenrock | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Freedom Machine (Internet) | | Strengths: | Clever design, light weight, speed, good for climbing, low rolling resistance. Very smart black and siver colour scheme. | | Weaknesses: | Light guage aluminium frame tubes are a concern - I think they would easily dent on impact. The Michelin Wildgripper Comp S tyres provide less grip than I expected. The Suntour crank set doesn't seem to be up to the quality of the rest of the bike. | | Similar Products Used: | I have never ridden any other full suspension bike. | | Bike Setup: | Standard. Why offer a review of a non-standard bike? | | Bottom Line: | The seat: why are so many American reviewers whingeing? The seat seems all right to me.
Riding position: I would prefer the handle bars to be higher and narrower.
The bike hardly resonates unless the rear shock positive pressure is too low. Too little pre-tension in the forks also allows resonance. A reduction of cadence will always eliminate resonance.
Rebound from the rear shock can be significant and there is no rebound adjustment, however this has not been a problem to me.
The speed of the bike is impressive. Higher speeds can be maintained through rough and difficult sections and I notice that I consistently use higher gears than on my old bike. As well as the suspension, I think that the lower rolling resistance of the Michelin tyres helps a lot in maintaining higher speed. However the grip provided by the tyres is less than I am used to, particularly for cornering and climbing - braking grip is OK.
The Avid SD3 V brakes work very well both wet and dry and are silent. Why would anybody want disc brakes?
The Weinmann Zac 19 rims are still running true with no adjustment.
I am very pleased with this bike and I believe it to have been good value at AUS$1,700. The 2002 model has a Shimano crankset, Hutchinson tyres and no discounts. The black and siver colour scheme may also have been lost in 2002. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Douglas
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlotte, NC, USA
Date Reviewed: October 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Tsali, Fontana NC | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$860.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | The NRS system works great. I get no bob from pedaling. All the components seem to be strong and holding up well. Value for the dollar. | | Weaknesses: | The seat definitely. Change it before you ever ride. The handle bars are too wide. I had mine cut an inch off of each side. The bikes a bit heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose D60R | | Bike Setup: | Cut the handle bars, changed the seat to a Bell Ergo. Put a Titec computer on to see how far I'm going. I like riding with toe clips so nixed the clipless pedals. Changed the tires to some Kenda's more suited to the terrain in my area. | | Bottom Line: | This is only my second mountain bike and I am very pleased. I feel I got a very decent deal on the bike and would recommend it to a friend. I made a few adjustments to suit me but these may not be needed by everyone. I keep a close watch on the frame for cracks because of the other reports of the frames cracking. I've launched this bike a lot and it seems to be handling my 200 lbs frame very well. For someone looking to spend under a $1000 for a full suspension bike, this is the way to go. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 21, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Don't have one | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycles St-Laurent | | Strengths: | This bike is God-like. The frame is strong, components are good and for a duel suspension the price is amazing. | | Weaknesses: | I changed the seat when I purchased the bike because it sucked! The only other weakness is the crank but my advise to you is to only change it if it breaks. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX 840 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for seat and red "SALSA" grips. | | Bottom Line: | I'm a man of few words...
BUY THIS BIKE!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Rome NY
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$840.00 | | Purchased At: | schuss ski and bike shop. | | Strengths: | lite and sexy, not much bobbing but a little bit. it works like it says.; (NRS). | | Weaknesses: | seat! i need to replace it as soon as possible | | Similar Products Used: | Klein hardtail with chris king headset xt/xtr. | | Bike Setup: | all stock | | Bottom Line: | my klein was a much better pro bike, but the Giant is a great bike for the money. the front shocks work well but make some noise. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Micelotti
a Cross Country Rider
from Holliston, Ma USA
Date Reviewed: September 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | vietnam milford, ma | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | East Providence Cycle | | Strengths: | Suspension,Frame and overall look of the bike | | Weaknesses: | The Seat, it reaaly does make you butt sore as mentioned here. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500 (1999) Trek 930 (1995) | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Bontrager race lite seat. | | Bottom Line: | This is my first Full Suspension and I really like it. Was not to crazy before about F.S. because of the bobbing but this bike really works. This bike makes you want to ride. I find myself less fatigued after long rides. It climbs better than my Trek 6500 and the downhills are so much more fun. Anyone serious into Cross Country should buy this bike. I Plan to upgrade the cranks to Race Face in the near future. Overall I am very impressed with this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Damon Johnson
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Sycamore Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | Mountain Bike Warehouse | | Strengths: | Decent components for the price. | | Weaknesses: | Seat: I would prefer a wooden plank for a seat!! | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Rocket 88, Elsworth Truth, Amp B5 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Just got this bike today. I read all the reviews and thought to myself the seat can't be that bad. Wrong!! It's worse. Unless you are a glutton for punishment or have a full time masouse on hand please get this saddle replaced or upgraded before you leave the store.
Other than that the bike is a dream. Handles and accelerates like a hardtail, only when you expect to feel that bump up ahead, you barely notice as the suspension all of a sudden makes its presence known.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Miller
a Cross Country Rider
from USA
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Winter Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | The Titec hell bent bars and the Titec stem were the best components on this bike. The SID XC air shock on the rear suspension was very nice also. | | Weaknesses: | The bike was built for a ten year old, wait I mean for someone who doesn't want to leave the smooth pavement. The frame broke in half with less than 50 miles on it putting my life in jeopardy. What a hump of crap. Get a Cannondale or even a Huffy. We all know that Huffys can stand the tests of time because we all have owned one and it is still in the shed. Plus the suspension tends to work itself loose in a weeks time. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Jekyle series, super V 500, and a Haro of some sort, Specialized FSR comp | | Bike Setup: | Icon crankset, lx front, xt rear, lx shifters. Bontrager corvair rims with dt spokes and bontrager Jones tires. | | Bottom Line: | If you weigh over a hundred pounds and like to go fast down hill don't buy this bike. It tends to bobble at high speeds and has a little flex to it. The frame is way to thin for any serious riding. I would stay away from the Giant line of full suspensions because of this. I would go with a Cannondale. They cost a little more money but sometimes you get what you pay for. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
david gray
a Cross Country Rider
from Plano, Tx. USA
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikeorama, Denton, Tx. | | Strengths: | Price, parts mix. | | Weaknesses: | steers slow in the tight stuff. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel, GT I-drive. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for sella Flight and easton seat post. | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up of my first review. Been ridding it for six months and lotsa lotsa miles. Overall this is an extremely impressive ride. For a short travel bike it is real plush, a nice thing on a long ride. It has been everything they claim it to be. I bent the seat rails, koshi saddles are trash, buy a new seat and post( they use a 27.2 post and a shim) Why? I replaced it with a 30.9 which is the correct size. No problems with any of the other components. Great trail bike and occasional racer. My only real complaint is that it's a slug in the tight twisty stuff. Shortened the stem with moderate improvement. Mountain Bike Action Magazine did a review on it and cited the same complaint, I can see why. You simply can't beat Giants component mix for the price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christopher Bare
a Cross Country Rider
from Sheridan,Wyoming, USA
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Bucking Mule Falls Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Back Country Bicycles | | Strengths: | NRS (No Resonance System) Removes nearly all bobbing from pedaling. This greatly enhances my pedaling power. (especially going up hill) and a light frame also improves performance. | | Weaknesses: | Koski saddle is a bit uncomfortable during a long ride. I replaced it with a specialized body geometry saddle. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Warp DS Two and Giant Rainier se. | | Bike Setup: | Rock Shox Judy C Hydracoil front fork with 80mm of travel, Rock Shox SID rear shock with positive and negative pressure adjustment and 3.75" of travel, Avid mechanical disc brake on front & Avid Sd3 Direct pull brake on rear tire, and Shimano Deore 27 speed drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | Great cross country performance. Nearly all bobbing eliminated yet active and adjustable rear suspension responds to the enviroment. Light frame and good componets allow for great performance. At a price betweem $950.00-$1100.00 you get a great product for your money. People wanting to get great cross country performance at a great value should consider this bike. However, people looking at buying a bike with highly active rear suspension for large jumps, rock hopping, and bomber runs should not get this bike. I give this bike a perfect rating for cross country performance. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a
from Lancaster, CA.
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Skyline Drive (Big Bear) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Gil's Bike Shop | | Strengths: | The NRS system works as advertised. I am 250 lbs and did not not any bob. The frame is light enough for me to whip the bike around. | | Weaknesses: | The seat is the only weakness that I've found. It was replaced before I left the store with a Schwinn Hollow Point Gel. | | Similar Products Used: | First FS bike ridden. My other bike is a rigid Trek 800. | | Bike Setup: | The saddle was exchanged, the Titec Hellbent 0.5 riser bars were swapped for a 1.5, the stem was replaced with another was a 15 degree pitch. Other than that it is stock. | | Bottom Line: | This is a solid FS bike. I tried the Trek Fuel 80, and a Cannondale Jekyll 600 (both discounted to the same range as the Giant)and really liked the Giant. I have taken it out a few times, and found that it inspires confidence (that could be good or bad). It is smooth and can fool you into thinking you are going slower than you are (I've got the bruised ribs to prove it). I give this bike a five for both ratings. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randy Phillips
a Cross Country Rider
from Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 21, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | the Hydro cut | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Gears and Grills | | Strengths: | NRS suspension performs as advertised, I've tried everything to force this bike to "bob", it just doesn't. The weight (under 25lbs after upgrades), is very respectable. This bike has convinced me to ride faster, mostly downhill. | | Weaknesses: | The seat is more of a pine plank than a seat. I purchased this bike with upgrades in mind. The crank is terrible, the big chain ring requires straightening weekly, it's the only component I didn't upgrade. I never experienced the weaker components. I just did not want the disc brakes of the NRS2 or NRS1. | | Similar Products Used: | It's my first dual suspension. | | Bike Setup: | Rock Shock SID 100 suspension fork, XT shifter combos, XT rear and front derailler, XT cassette, Rolf Urracco wheel set and of course I replaced the saddle. | | Bottom Line: | I love every minute I'm in the saddle, well maybe not those bruttle climbs. I've noticed the rear tire tends to break lose during out of the saddle climbs. I've tried to position myself further back when out of the saddle, doesn't seem to make a difference. There has to be a trade off somewhere, the NRS systems works so well in every other situation. I've become a better in the saddle cimber, because I have to be. I paid every other bike on the market extensive consideration, after riding this bike since March, I'm convinced the XTC NRS3 is the best bike suited to my riding style (all cross country, some racing). The price to performance ratio is outstanding. When in the market for this type bike, you just cannot ignore the GIANT. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Candy
a Weekend Warrior
from Corona, Ca. USA
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Chino Hills | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1069.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bike | | Strengths: | Great Bike. Rode my husbands GT XCR LE and prefer the NRS3 to his. No bob, steady ride and great climber. | | Weaknesses: | SEAT !!! Bruised in places I can't talk about. Brakes soft but okay to start. | | Similar Products Used: | GT XCR LE, XCR 1500 & 3.0 | | Bike Setup: | Stock with the exception of a TERRY Liberator womans saddle and AVID SD 7 & ultimate levers. Cut down the stock bar by 1/2 inch on each side and will upgrade to a EASTON Monkey Lite low rise soon. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the money. Giant should get a clue and scrap the saddle for a real one! For any rider this bike rules and can be whatever you want it to be. Great frame with room to grow when it's time to change out components. Have to take away one chili because of that painful saddle! I would recommend this bike to everyone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from georgia, cobb
Date Reviewed: June 26, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | AJ Barnes | | Strengths: | I have pounded on this bike almost every day that I have owned it and loved every minute of it. The rear suspension is great in the up hills no sag, and is great in the down hills. I have noticed the front shocks chirp a little but the shop it looking after it for me. If you every buy a bike I recommend AJ Barnes, they have excellent service and they had the best price I could find. they threw in some accessories. But the bike is great. still breaking it in but other than that it has performed great. I haven't been riding lightly on it! Great components in an affordable package. | | Weaknesses: | The seat sucks! I have noticed that the handle bars seemed a little too wide. mostly minor stuff! try one if you can find it. | | Similar Products Used: | gt i drive. I noticed that the no sag design in the Giant bike is a great benefit, but you don't sacrifice any suspesion travel when encountering rocks and bumps. | | Bike Setup: | stock. plan to change seat and handle bars (to a carbonfiber set) | | Bottom Line: | GREAT! good design. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shannon Prickett
a Weekend Warrior
from Coppell
Date Reviewed: June 26, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | wheels fitness in motion | | Strengths: | Great on climbs, love the NRS! | | Weaknesses: | The seat! My bum would bruise! | | Similar Products Used: | none I'm new to mountain bikes | | Bike Setup: | all stock, but xtr rear derailer, and new seat and grips, cut the handle bars about 1/2 in on both sides | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. I just got into the sport and can't get enough of it, Its great for first time riders. The handle bar are bit to wide (I got caught between two trees on a single track before I cut them down). Replace the seat ASAP. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Busch
a Cross Country Rider
from Sudbury Ontario CANADA
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | the rougher, the better, we got some good ones up north!) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Pinnacle Sports (in Sudbury) | | Strengths: | light-weight for a dual suspension, takes drops like a dream! Tires are great for mid-speed tight cornering. | | Weaknesses: | crank-arms feel like rubber, soft breaks, sore-bum from seat, THE BARINGS BLEW IN MY SUSPENSION!(the ones nearest the SID shock, IF ONE GOES YOU BETTER REPLACE BOTH RIGHT AWAY CUZ THE OTHER ONE ONLY HAS ANOTHER WEEK IN IT, front tire slides side to side in the fork, new barings in front wheel, factory defect in small and mid-sized ring on front (i had to file a couple fat teeth), needs a bash-guard (ive already lost 4 teeth on the big ring, all kinds of derailleur problems in the mud (by the end of the race i couldn't use my small ring on front or back. and my Judy's rattle. The handlebar is too wide.(feels like I'm driving a truck. I also put a dent in the frame after 2 weeks with my ancle (ouch). | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper was stiffer, but I swear, my XTC climbs better. | | Bike Setup: | Still stock for the most part except for my break pads. I'm gonna upgrade most my parts in the winter starting with the crank arms, cables, barings, seat and handlebar | | Bottom Line: | I'm from the north and i live in a town known for its rocks. I love the bike. Don't let the list of problems fool you. I ride about 20-30 miles a day in some of the roughest trails. I've done a couple races. I can't praise the NRS enough. but I find the parts to be somewhat cheap. I wish i bought the XTC 2. But I am VERRY rough on my bikes. After my last race, I walked over to the guy that sold me the byke (he was racing too) and thanked him for selling me the dual suspension. If only modern technology could provide us with tougher components. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Layug
a
from Bethesda, Maryland, USA
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | All | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance bikes | | Strengths: | Its a great value for your money. light. no bob. | | Weaknesses: | the koshi seat. week frame. | | Similar Products Used: | noting similar | | Bike Setup: | upgraded to disk brakes and changed the stem. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great i like it better then my friends i-drive 4.0, even he likes it better then his i drive. anyways heres the bottom line, it doesn't bob at all and its suspension works great. it has great parts for the price. one problem is that the bikes frame isnt very stong so be careful with it. i have a big dent in mines already. oh yeah change the koshi seat thrust me. buy this bike if your on a budget, if your not on a budget try getting a better nrs, like nrs air. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JEROME DAGSAAN
a Weekend Warrior
from SAIPAN
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | ANYWHERE | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1250.00 | | Purchased At: | GIFT | | Strengths: | NRS SUSPENSION, LIGHTWEIGHT AND NICE DESIGN. | | Weaknesses: | NONE | | Similar Products Used: | SUGAR 1 | | Bike Setup: | STOCK | | Bottom Line: | JUST TO LET YOU GUYS KNOW THAT IF YOU TRY THIS BIKE YOU'LL NEVER REGRET IT. JUST FOLLOW THE SET PSI ON THE MANUAL AND OFF YOU GO. TRIED JUMPING 3 FOOT JUMPS, AND SO FAR THE BIKE IS HANDLING IT PRETTY GOOD. NOT BAD FOR A CROSS COUNTRY BIKE. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
RON VASQUEZ
a Cross Country Rider
from GUAM,USA
Date Reviewed: June 7, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | DANDAN | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | HORNET SPORTING GOODS | | Strengths: | NO BOB, NO JOKE | | Weaknesses: | NON | | Similar Products Used: | CANNONDALE F400 | | Bike Setup: | STOCK | | Bottom Line: | THIS BIKE RULES, JUST SET THE REAR SHOX OVER 10 PSI YOUR AND YOUR GOOD TO GO. THIS BIKE IS FAST AND ABSORBS ALL THE BIG AND SMALL BUMPS THAT GETS IN ITS WAY. VERY FAST ON DESCENDING AND AT 70DEG. HEAD ANGLE THE BIKE HANDLES REALLY GOOD ON TECHNICAL TERRAIN. XTC 3 IS THE ONLY ONE THAT CAME WITH A V-BRAKE SET. THE MORE YOU RIDE THIS BIKE THE MORE CONFIDENT YOU GET. "PERFECT DUAL SUSPENSION BIKE AND FOR THE MONEY ITS WELL WORTHED. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chance Farwell
a Cross Country Rider
from Saco, Maine USA
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Agamenticus | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1049.00 | | Purchased At: | Quinn's Bike & Fitness | | Strengths: | Great value for the money, no-bob on climbs, SID XC shock, pretty light for a full suspension bike. | | Weaknesses: | The Koski seat is brutal. My recommendation is to replace it at the time you purchase the bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Iron Horse G-8 | | Bike Setup: | Stock. Seat soon to be replaced. | | Bottom Line: | This is a truly great bike for the money. I did a lot of research before purchasing this and would recommend it to anyone who is in the market for a full suspension cross country bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Gray
a Cross Country Rider
from Plano, Texas
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | All of "em" | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | BikeoRama Denton, Tx. | | Strengths: | Price, component mix. | | Weaknesses: | nothing major | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for new Sella Italia Flite. | | Bottom Line: | Excellent bang for the buck. I'm a hardtail convert. This bike has no bob, climbs excellent. The stem was to long and shortened it up with a 110. It handles the tight stuff noticeably better. My only concerns about this bike is the frame. It uses drawn and butted tubing, in the mid sections it's paper thin. I had a moderate crash and burn on the bike and put a heathy dink in the tubing on my second time out on it. (top tube) Looked at a comparable Trek Fuel but the Trek is not spec'ed any where near as nice. This has been a bike where the more I ride it, the better I like it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rob
a Weekend Warrior
from cumming, ga, usa
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | bull mt. | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | roswell bike | | Strengths: | light, price, climbing,parts for the price | | Weaknesses: | seat, crank, slugish in turns, brake pads | | Bike Setup: | standard except replaced seat, crank, chain and break pads | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. Climbs with no bob and great handling on down hill. Replaced the seat with the Selle Italia Flite (love it), because the seat tore. Seat was not very good. The crank came warped and had to replace. Warranty was great. Will replace with the XL this winter when things go on sale. The bars are wide so watch it going thru narrow areas which also makes handling in tight areas interesting. Had to replace the brakes already (to soft). Over all love the bike, but wish I had gone the extra money for the NRS 2. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Weekend Warrior
from Chattanooga TN
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Clemmer | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | The bike rides and climbs great - no bobbing. It handles great downhill and on rough terrain. The components are very good for the price. I upgraded the real derailer to an XT. | | Weaknesses: | The brakes wear out quick and are a little soft. It doesn't handle as well as the Stump Jumper in slow tight turns. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stump Jumper FSR. | | Bike Setup: | Standard except upgraded rear derailer to XT | | Bottom Line: | A great bike for the money. I searched for a couple of months and chose this bike for its ride and value. The NRS really does work it don't bob, but it will help absorb the smallest bumps. I would recommend this bike to anyone wanting a qaulity full suspension that is value priced. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KEVBOEXPRESS
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Barbara, CA
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all SB trails | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Bob's - ZARK~!!!~ | | Strengths: | Light frame - ZERO 'bob' in climbing - Great price and not many upgrades needed! Hey its a Giant~ | | Weaknesses: | Upgrade the cranks and the seat ASAP - | | Similar Products Used: | Bontrager Privateer - not FS obviously | | Bike Setup: | All stock except LX Hollow Tech Cranks | | Bottom Line: | Great FS bike for the price! - the NRS system really works -this bikes climbs with zero 'bob' and can be tuned for your weight,its pretty light overall- If you get the LX Cranks the bike shifts like butter and there isnt much chain slap to speak of - Its the same frame as XTC 2 and 1 - Comes with the SID XC rear shock which when tuned properly is plush - Great bike for people entering into the sport who "need" that dual suspension - Most bike you can get for the price after 2 months of research online and shopping around! Only 4 chillis overall to keep the ratio true! BEST VALUE~ | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ben wood
a Cross Country Rider
from san jose, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | saratoga gap | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | performance | | Strengths: | awesome climber,loving the NRS, solid feel, descending is awesome. upgradeability, quality, affordability | | Weaknesses: | drivetrain not so good, but upgredeable. cornering | | Bike Setup: | everything stock except I ditched the pain in the ass (literally)kooski saddle for a selle italia take-off (aaaahhh) | | Bottom Line: | This is an awesome ride. it is my first fs bike and it was very affordible for its quality. on my first ride I was amazed at the suspensin action while climbing, it felt exactly like my hardtail if not better It definately has better traction over roots and obstacles while climbing.
the best part is i can go faster downhill which is definately a huge plus, and a great experience compared to my hardtail. I havent had the chance to take it on much singletrack, but when i have it was a solid experience, although cornering was not so great, but i guess thats just me getting used to handling my new bike. I plan on upgrading parts as they fail and improving weight after a while and i hope to race it sometime soon. this is a great first fs bike I recommend it highly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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