Submitted by
brendan
a Downhiller
from ireland Date Reviewed: September 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Leadmines,Co.Down
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$640.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
great all rounder nice suspension looks good when riding
Weaknesses:
tad bit heavy for my liking:)
Similar Products Used:
1st bike and its great
Bike Setup:
downhill style forks (fox)
good for jumps
Bottom Line:
great bike unbelievable value for money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
my02
a Downhiller
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: August 3, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Oxford Falls, Menai, Ourimbah
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Here and there
Strengths:
Strong frame, solid feel, uber smooth suspension, pedals ok on the flat if you're prepared to spin, feels very stable when in the air
Weaknesses:
Scratches easily, heavy frame
Similar Products Used:
none - its my first DH / FR bike. Also ride a Teocali but I guess thats a little different!
Bike Setup:
66RCVs, Saint brakes, 8" rotors, SLX shifters & rear mech, Saint F mech, E13 chain guide, singletrack rims, 4 way swinger shock, 800mm FSA gravity light bars, Race Face Evolve DH cranks and stem.
Bottom Line:
My first "BIG" bike and supremely happy with it! I needed something chunky as I'm 6'4 and 120kg.
My riding has improved no end with this bike, with confidence to hit bigger jumps, drops and whatever else come my way.
As a trail bike its obviously not great, but can still be pedalled as long as yo don't mind a workout.
I found my 05 frame (brown) having never been used so it looks like a brand new bike - some people are even asking if its the new 2010 model Faith!
Recommend this bike to anyone who might be looking to get their first DH / FR bike, who isn't worried about moving some extra weight and who wants a high degree of confidence that it will take some atomic hits!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nzbiker
a Downhiller
from Blenheim,NZ Date Reviewed: July 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Mt Hutt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
trademe
Strengths:
solid takes big hits well
Weaknesses:
mayb weight but its not really that heavy mines 20kg mines a a frame tho
Similar Products Used:
glory
Bike Setup:
07 888rv with white lowers,dhx3,fizik freek,hfx9s,singletrackfront,729rear,e13srs,x7rearandshifter
Bottom Line:
solid bike reliable cheap mine was only 1000nz but then i bought the 888s to upgrade from the 66s still only cost me around 1200 and looks sick with heaps of white parts
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Giant rider
a Downhiller
from LA,california Date Reviewed: January 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Shotgun, Mammoth
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Used, from a brittis
Strengths:
This bike is BOMB-PROOF!. The fork is absolutely ah-mazing and the swiger shock preforms well too. The bike has a great feel, espesially when it corners. this thing also blows trough rough sections and even the ocasional rough landed jump.
Santa Cruz V-10, Santa Cruz Nomad, Giant Youkon FX
Bike Setup:
Stock, acept for a saint in the front and PEATY GRIPS!
Bottom Line:
This is a BEASTLY bike that will eat up any drops, rock gardens, rough landings, tight corners or even small rodents in its way!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ravioli7896
a Downhiller
from sacramento ca Date Reviewed: July 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Livewire at Northstar or any black diamons or up trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Northstar
Strengths:
this bike is a god damn beast, it handles any trails up to double black diamonds. i can do 10 foot drops and it hold up, ANY terrain this bike can handle it has 8in travel rear 8.5 front and i could never bottem it out. THIS BIKE IS AMAZING and i never had ONE problem with it even on the biggest jumps. its got a great over flow preloader shock with coil. The 8in vented hydralic disc brakes have AMAZING stopping power and nothing compars to the shirts and deraillers. Any professional or good hard strong rider should get one
Weaknesses:
no weaknesses, this bike is amazing
Similar Products Used:
nothing compares
Bike Setup:
extremely hard trails, DH race and free ride, river, any trails
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE IS AN AMAZING BEAST
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
toby Call
a Downhiller
from England Date Reviewed: July 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
le tour DH chamonix
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
solid, not bad looking, mine came custom with better spec (eg.888) so i get more out of it, but the frame is nice. suspension very effective, no brake jack, 8inches plenty enough. The inerrupted seat tube is a pain tho.
Weaknesses:
frame is very heavy, my bike must c.45lbs or more. some unnecessary aluminium. could be simpler and sleeker.
Submitted by
Stu
a Downhiller
from Chapel Hill, NC Date Reviewed: July 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Magic Forest
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Frank's Cyclery
Strengths:
This is an update now that I have ridden it more:
The fork is perfect. Someone called my fork the "Jackhammer T" because it is so nice and plush. For downhill, plush = the best. It bottoms out occasionally, but hey, if you're not bottoming out, you're not using your suspension to its full potential.
The DHX 3.0 is great. I have it set to 120 psi and have the coil pretty stretched. It is now nice and plush and eats up drops like no tomorrow. The rebound is your preference; mine is set decently low. It's perfect for me: takes big hits but won't bounce me off.
Weaknesses:
Pedals. BAAAAD pedals. I never knew that they were bad until I got a little muddy. My feet slipped like crazy and cost me on a jump. Get some DMR V-12's. It took me a ton of searching to find those, and damn are they totally worth every penny. Cheap, efficient, and are incredibly reliable and durable. Not to mention, they look cool :)
Also, I highly recommend Five-Ten Impact shoes. They'll run you about $95...so they aren't cheap. But I love em. These shoes aren't your $95 show-off shoes. They're made to get downright muddy, dirty, and still perform with the greatest traction ever. They're also very easy to clean once the mud has dried.
***NOTE THAT THIS BIKE DOES NOT COME WITH A CHAIN GUIDE!!***
Buy one from e.13 if you have a chance. Mine slips to first gear a lot and I will be investing in a chain guide very soon. Very much worth it for downhill trails. You don't have time to shift on those, so when it slips, it sucks.
A pro told me to remove all of the spacers on the fork. So, I did. The handlebars now sit very low and it feels much better. Plus, it gives me much more control over my bike.
Here's the problem: You will have an impaler-of-doom as a stem on the front. Cut that thing the instant you take all those spacers out. Trust me, it'll be huge and is a hazard to your riding.
Bike Setup:
2006 Faith 2
Bottom Line:
Great bike after you customize it to your liking. To break down what you should do:
1. Get DMR V-12 pedals
2. Remove all spacers on the fork/handlebar and cut the stem very short
3. Adjust your fork so it is very plush
4. Adjust your rear suspension so it is plush. You may have to play around with it a bit. Make sure the rebound is good
5. Get an e.13 chain guide and completely remove your front derailleur; after all, you're gonna be downhilling with this bike and always want it in 2nd gear anyway :)
6. *optional* Get Five-Ten Impact shoes
Once you do that, you should feel like you have a whole new bike. I never knew how much potential it had until I did those things to it. It's highly, highly worth it to do those.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cody costa
a Downhiller
from centennial,coloroado, usa Date Reviewed: July 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
wild thing at keystone
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
adventure cycling
Strengths:
Great bike the suspension is amazing the color is awsome rides perfect corners good takes hits like a champ
Weaknesses:
the pedals suck, highly suggest new ones, the forks are a little soft lots of pedal bob im getting new fox 40s then it will be perfect
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock except for pedals
Bottom Line:
this is a awsome bike you cant beat the price the forks are a little soft i suggest new springs and higher oil level or just get new ones, great hucker it can handle anything, corners good climbs like you would expect a 40 pound bike to climb, for the money it is a amazing bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RoB<;o)
a Downhiller
from Australia Date Reviewed: June 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
29
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
Wollongong
Strengths:
Great Service and back up. Strong reliable and confidence builder. Maestro suspension is close to flawless.
Weaknesses:
Paint seems a little thin, cables rubbing mark it easily. Pedals are horrible, an absolute must to upgrade.
Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse Yakuza, Cannondale Gemini
Bike Setup:
Stock apart from Crank Bros 50/50 pedals. Marzocchi Bombers.
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike, has allowed me to do stuff that I have never done before, recently did a 15ft drop that felt like I was jumped off a roadside kerb. I think its best feature is that it builds confidence and it's supple enough to let you get away with stuff that others dont...makes me look like a better rider than I am...lol. For the money I really couldn't find it a real competitor. I would recommend tracking one down as there are still a few around at GREAT prices seeing as it has been superceded by the Glory range.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Nickell
a Downhiller
from redding ca, usa Date Reviewed: May 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
southfork
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
amazing travel i just love it. its so smooth and its incredibly stronge
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
custom
Bottom Line:
its great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Nickell
a Downhiller
from redding ca, usa Date Reviewed: May 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
southfork
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
amazing travel i just love it. its so smooth and its incredibly stronge
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
custom
Bottom Line:
its great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Nickell
a Downhiller
from redding ca, usa Date Reviewed: May 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
southfork
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
amazing travel i just love it. its so smooth and its incredibly stronge
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
custom
Bottom Line:
its great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Nickell
a Downhiller
from redding ca, usa Date Reviewed: May 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
southfork
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
amazing travel i just love it. its so smooth and its incredibly stronge
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
custom
Bottom Line:
its great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Nickell
a Downhiller
from redding ca, usa Date Reviewed: May 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
southfork
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
amazing travel i just love it. its so smooth and its incredibly stronge
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
custom
Bottom Line:
its great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Nickell
a Downhiller
from redding ca, usa Date Reviewed: May 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
southfork
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
amazing travel i just love it. its so smooth and its incredibly stronge
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz bullit
Bike Setup:
custom
Bottom Line:
its great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Downhiller
from Gloucestersgire, England Date Reviewed: May 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Mountain Ash, Soutrh Wales
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Managed to get the bike in October with over 40% off list due to the new Glorys being released. I have been riding this bike for over 6 months now and it still amazes me how well it covers ground. The stock parts fitted to the bike are superb, I weigh about 85kg and did find the forks a bit soft but I have changed the springs for some firmer ones and replaced the oil with 15wt and now they are superb.
Weaknesses:
Pedals, Fitted some DMR V12's much better. Weight, a bit heavy but I have removed all the front shifter system inc granny ring and fitted a new MRP System 3 with Party crasher. Less weight, never loose a chain again and pimps it it nicely.
Similar Products Used:
Norco A Line, Specialized Big Hit 3.
Bike Setup:
Stock except Rebuilt forks, stiffer springs & heavier Oil. DMR V12 Pedals, The Best! Maxxis Minion Dual Ply DH Front & Rear Tyres, Super Tackys, MRP System 3 With Party Crasher. (Highly Recommended).
Bottom Line:
For the money there is nothing better in my opinion, I am in my first year of DH racing and this bike suits me, not too expensive but still great to ride, handles anything you can throw it at and the Giant build quality with some minor improvements means it will last all day. Get one now, you will not be dissapointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Powers
a Downhiller
from Lyons, CO, USA Date Reviewed: April 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
hall ranch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
2100
Strengths:
suspension, great fork, awesome tires, amazing braking, nothing really to complain about
Weaknesses:
only thing is the pedals, they have no grip at all
Similar Products Used:
switch, norco aline, demo
Bike Setup:
fender, e 13 chainguide, intense rear tire, new azonic stem, azonic a-frame pedals(amazing, most grip on any pedal ever) New azonic seat.
Bottom Line:
amazing bike great bike for downhilling and freeriding, my favorite bike in its suspension range. Good for beginning downhillers and veterans, anyone really. great value. Buy it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirt Dagwood
a Downhiller
from Marin County, CA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Zig-Zag
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Mt Tam Bikes
Strengths:
Maestro rear linkage super strong tubing front triangle stiff rear triangle
Weaknesses:
comes with a jr T double chain ring 175mm cranks should be 170 or shorter
Similar Products Used:
Giant Glory, Marin DH, Versus Trigger, Versus Blitz 2.
Bike Setup:
Faith 2 Marz 888 RC Manitou Swinger 4 way Easton 30mm vice stem and EA50 DH bars Formula ORO K24 brakes/8" rotors FSA Fat Pig Pro DH deep cup X9/X9 Raceface Evolve DH cranks MRP Guide Stock thru axle hubs F/R (pretty strong and hassle free) Alex BH rimes. Time Atac Z pedals 2.7/2.5 Maxxis Minion DH stickee
Bottom Line:
This bike is super sick as a DH rig though they discontinued it and just offer different versions of the Glory. The Glory is a bit sicker anyway but came out after the Faith. Other than the Faith being heavy and really hard to shave weight, it makes for a super sick and forgiving DH race/ DH shuttle run rig. It deffinetly needed upgrades out of the box to be a competetive race rig, but either way it has been highly competent on some of the steepest most abrasive DH runs in NOR CAL!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sina Pourcyrous
a
from Alameda, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: January 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Too Many
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2350.00
Purchased At:
Craigslist
Strengths:
Hucks, etc
Bike Setup:
Giant Faith 2, e.13, the, etc.
Bottom Line:
Great bike, for the kind of racing I do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DJ Ponte
a Weekend Warrior
from SparkS, NV, USA Date Reviewed: December 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
shock treatment at mammoth
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$45.00
Strengths:
o so smmoooth the back shock is great and their is no pedal bob the great forks can take serious hits
Weaknesses:
not too many just a wee bit heavy
Similar Products Used:
giant glory
Bottom Line:
sick bike invest if you have the money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Downhiller
from Toronto Date Reviewed: December 17, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
this bike pedals unbelievably well. it looks great too, i love the green colour (i have the 06 model). the shock feels great the the components generally feel beefy. it takes everything you throw at it on the downhill track, and at the same time you can dirt jump on it almost too well. any jump i can do on my dirt jump bike, i can do on the faith.
Weaknesses:
my only complaints are some stock parts: -jr.t fork -hfx 9 brakes -the rims came out of true on my first ride but thats nothing that can't be fixed. -pedals: hussefelts. these pedals are the worst things i have ever owned. no grip what so ever. id rather use blocks of wood for grip.
Similar Products Used:
a whole bunch of norco fullies, santa cruz, konas, but that faith beats them all (except for the santa cruz vp free, which pedals even better!)
Bike Setup:
stock 06
Bottom Line:
amazing bike. buy buy buy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stu
a Downhiller
from North Carolina Date Reviewed: November 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Magic Forest on Vail Mountain in Colorado (But when I am in NC, my fav. is Legend Park in Clayton)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Frank's Cycler
Strengths:
Just about everything. What isn't there to love about this? Maestro is great. No loss in pedaling power at all with this system. I can't feel any bobbing or pedal kickback when I pedal hard (but the fork is a whole different story). The bike is built tough and can take some big hits. The DHX 3.0 coil is excellent if you're just getting into DHing. You can go ahead and upgrade it to the 4.0 or 5.0 coil if you want some extra bells and whistles, such as bottom-out adjustment.
The brakes work extremely well. You need to break them in a little to get full stopping power, but it's like that with every disk brake set. The gear switching is also very smooth and responsive, too.
Just FYI to everyone: All the components on this bike are basically the low end of the high end; but they're still high end :)
Weaknesses:
A wee bit heavy side, but not bad at all. It has been squeaking lately, also.
The 170mm Jr. T fork is extremely soft, but it still eats up bumps. Issue with that extreme softness is that it REALLY robs you of pedaling power because it bobs so much when you try to pedal hard while standing up. I'd recommend buying a stiffer coil to put inside it if you don't want to bottom out and have more pedaling efficiency. But overall, this is the only real weakness of the bike. People have said the wheels and pedals suck, but I have not had an issue with them yet.
Bike Setup:
Normal setup
Bottom Line:
Absolutely excellent investment if you're just getting into downhilling. You can get a good discount since it is considered last year's model now. But get it quick! They're not producing it anymore since the Glory has replaced it entirely for '07. Also, the olive green color doesn't look nearly as bad as it seems from the normal photos. When the bike's in front of you, it looks very cool.
Nothing can beat the components and performance you get out of this bike at the price you pay. But I'm definitely not saying that it beats the Glory, though ;)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: November 2, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
purchased used
Strengths:
Very plush suspension, great pedal efficiency (almost no bob)great geometry, very balanced and agile in the air, decent weight given the parts spec and durability
Weaknesses:
none found yet
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC2
Bike Setup:
2006 model, basically stock, so JrT fork w/integrated stem, dhx3.0 shock, x.7 rear derailure, saint front derailure, x.9 shifters, hfx9 brakes
Bottom Line:
I LOVE this bike. My riding has improved so much on this bike in the short time I've had it. I am so much more confident on this bike. I can ride it over anything. The bike LOVES to get airborne, it just jumps so well and feels light and balanced in the air. The suspension is very plush, but at the same time this bike pedals amazingly well. If you can't buy this bike anymore, I'm sure the 2007 Glory Freeride or Reign X would make be equally amazing. I give it a high value rating because I bought is used (almost new) for $1600CDN, which was such an incredible deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia Date Reviewed: October 29, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
No pedel bob(well almost) Fox dhx rear Smothness
Weaknesses:
Weight The standard pedels Tyres Forks to soft Cabel routing
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinky,Giant Glory
Bike Setup:
mostly stock except for the pedels and the tyres
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks, nothing that you cant do with it, will go off any thing with ease. If you are keen and can't shuttle then you can ride back up it is heavy but that makes you appreciate to going back down which is just to much fun. This thing just rides over the rocky rections as if they are nothing and put the power down and you off to the next section The forks are to soft for me, i have bottomed them out a couple of times and the air does not do mutch and will need to change the oil weight The cabel routing is crap!!!!!! The difference from a good bike and a great bike is the finishing touches (Giant can improve)
Over all this bike is super cool
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Downhiller
from Brisbane, QLD, Australia Date Reviewed: October 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Everything on this bike is spot on it feels great and I feel so confordint taking corners at speed. All the spec is good.
Weaknesses:
Pedals are quite shocking but other than that nothing really. Stick a chain guide on and your away laughing.
Similar Products Used:
Giant DH comp, Kona Stinky
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi 66, race face cranks, sram x.7, easton, fox dhx 3
Bottom Line:
Grap this bike while you still can, i know in Australia Giant has none left in the factory so its whats left in stores. Grap this bike slap a chain guide and some new pedals and your away riding a spot on bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared Raynes
a Downhiller
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: September 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt Hutt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1801.00
Purchased At:
Cycle trading company
Strengths:
Very plush, pedals really well, great price (got it cheap because they are getting rid of them because the 2007 bikes are starting to come in)
Weaknesses:
Tires ( got a snakey on first run!) Rear hub (only had bike for 2 days and hub already feels like crap)
Bike Setup:
66VF2, DHX3.0, azonic pedals, pretty much 100% stock
Bottom Line:
What a fantastic bike! i am sooo much faster down the hill now and it just feels so nice. takes every hit in its stride. If you can get one in the closeout sales like i did then it is one of the cheapest best bikes you can buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Link
a Downhiller
from Taree,sydney,NSW,australia Date Reviewed: September 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Peach tree, River Hard i can only go on weekends coz still at school :(
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Strengths:
Yet again Giant has brung another good bike out. I love this bike, very few weaknesses. The new maestro system works very well (pedals ALOT! easier than a giant DH comp), suspension doesnt jump around when brakes are locked this is an awsome bike. Some thought went into this bike. I also have to mention the price you pay (roughly $3200 AU) is a very good price for the performance it gives, though it is still expensive for a person under 14 like me.
Weaknesses:
Not to many weaknesses I didn't actually get the bike with the stock pedals, so i never actually got to test them but guessing from the other reviews they sucked Well first of the brakes (hayes 9's)first the line broke, and then i got a leak in the master seal. although if your lucky you can get a good pair of hayes that dont do this. Second the rear hub (formula). Because i live in the bush and am to young to get/drive a car i ride to most of the near by down hill tracks, meaning the hub gets a work out, it only started to got about a month ago (roughly. it is still going but is getting worse, ..... fast. GOOD ADVICE!: If your hub is formula get a backup freewheel body to replace while you wait a LLLLLLOOOOONNNNNGGGGGG time to order or even find the part Thats about it
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC 1, Giant DH comp (i am many a giant boy)and a mongoose el something orather
Bike Setup:
Boxxer front shock, Fox DHX 3.0, cannondale pedals, X9 derailleur, Ethirteen chain guide
Bottom Line:
Very good quality bike, weaknesses relatively cheap to replace. As i said before i love this bike, if your thinking of buying 1 i would. The maestro sytem is a very good 1 better than the DH (unless its the 06 DH maestro) Get 1 there good sorry about the spelling mistakes , tom
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Link
a Downhiller
from Taree,sydney,NSW,australia Date Reviewed: September 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Peach tree, River Hard i can only go on weekends coz still at school :(
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Strengths:
Yet again Giant has brung another good bike out. I love this bike, very few weaknesses. The new maestro system works very well (pedals ALOT! easier than a giant DH comp), suspension doesnt jump around when brakes are locked this is an awsome bike. Some thought went into this bike. I also have to mention the price you pay (roughly $3200 AU) is a very good price for the performance it gives, though it is still expensive for a person under 14 like me.
Weaknesses:
Not to many weaknesses I didn't actually get the bike with the stock pedals, so i never actually got to test them but guessing from the other reviews they sucked Well first of the brakes (hayes 9's)first the line broke, and then i got a leak in the master seal. although if your lucky you can get a good pair of hayes that dont do this. Second the rear hub (formula). Because i live in the bush and am to young to get/drive a car i ride to most of the near by down hill tracks, meaning the hub gets a work out, it only started to got about a month ago (roughly. it is still going but is getting worse, ..... fast. GOOD ADVICE!: If your hub is formula get a backup freewheel body to replace while you wait a LLLLLLOOOOONNNNNGGGGGG time to order or even find the part Thats about it
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC 1, Giant DH comp (i am many a giant boy)and a mongoose el something orather
Bike Setup:
Boxxer front shock, Fox DHX 3.0, cannondale pedals, X9 derailleur, Ethirteen chain guide
Bottom Line:
Very good quality bike, weaknesses relatively cheap to replace. As i said before i love this bike, if your thinking of buying 1 i would. The maestro sytem is a very good 1 better than the DH (unless its the 06 DH maestro) Get 1 there good sorry about the spelling mistakes , tom
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc
a
from Vancouver, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: July 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Upper Oil Can,
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2900.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Amazing suspension, killer looks, great component specs
Weaknesses:
PEDALS. I was not sure how accurate the rants about these were but I was not ready for how crappy they are. They are like porcelain shoes on ice.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinky, Big Hit, Norco Shore and A-line
Bike Setup:
Stock - but I will be changing the pedals and tires real soon, the pedals before my next ride. They are that bad
Bottom Line:
Just a fantastic bike. It took me over things so much faster and smoother then any bike I have ever be on. I was nothing short of amazed at how the rear end just sucked up what ever it hit. It jumps very very well. I was going to take it easy on my first ride as it was a new bike and I had not been on the trails for a while, but this thing just feels like home. I think I ripped about as fast as i ever have.
I am a convert! I was a Kona fan until I sat on this rig. I don't think I will ever go back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Waters
a Downhiller
from Bozeman, MT Date Reviewed: July 12, 2006
This bike blows every other bike I've ever tried out of the water. The biggest thing I've noticed is the slightly rearward axle path keeps the wheel from hooking up on square bumps. I flipped the link on the shock, it lowers the bottom bracket slightly and the bike corners much better, but the cranks also clip rocks constantly. My biggest complaint is the weight even though some of this is due to my fork selection. Also, why didn't they put a chainguide on it stock, who wants to pedal a 40+ pound bike uphill? The stock tire tube combo is garbage, I got 5 flats in one run, it was infuriating. Bottom line, this is an incredible bike. I honestly think it has improved my riding, it inspires confidence. If you ever get the chance try one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dylan
a Downhiller
from poco Date Reviewed: July 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
galloway
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
blak dog bikes
Strengths:
suspension design is awsome didnt no a downhiller could pedal that well. the components are top notch for a bike that only costs 2600
Weaknesses:
really none yet but there is a few the paint chips really easily and on my bike the rear cassette is sticking when you stop pedaling so it will also not let you back pedal
i also dont like the interupted seat post
Similar Products Used:
cove g-spot would still have but the frame snapped
Bike Setup:
completly stock but hope to upgrade to a 888 vf or rc fork and to get a truvativ chain guide
Bottom Line:
awsome bike for the money and good for someone is hard core free rider also for someone who wants to get into downhilling and whith 8 inches of supension you can
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Harry Selkirk
a Downhiller
from Newport, Wales, UK Date Reviewed: July 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Wentwood DH Track
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2850.00
Purchased At:
Don Skene Cycles
Strengths:
Rides very smoothly Climbs quite well for what it is. Great components. I LOVE THIS BIKE
Weaknesses:
None i have noticed
Similar Products Used:
Norco Savage - £800 instead of the faiths £2000 so not too similar.
Bike Setup:
06 model, Stock other than pedals
Bottom Line:
Was bought in the UK so price includes VAT - £1550.
Great value for money, the jr T fork and fox shock makes it handle the downhills soooooooooo smooth. If you are looking for an awesome (whilst pretty cheap) full susser i'd definitely recommend the faith 2.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Strauss
a Downhiller
from NY, USA Date Reviewed: April 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
my front yard (so far)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Ricks bike shop
Strengths:
Very Smooth and comfy ride. Nice components and a nice price tag!!!!
Weaknesses:
Crapy pedals and a fairly undersprung fork, proboly needs a chainguide
Similar Products Used:
VP free, Intense uzzi, and nothing else really pedals as well to honest
Bike Setup:
Specialized Mag low pro pedals, ODI ruffian lock on grips, soon to have an E13 DRS guide and a 66 RC2X!!! yea baby.
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks!!! it pedals soo well. Soars over jumps and rockets down gnarly DH trails. I even like jumpin it more than my hardtail!! I would recommend changing the pedals and getting a chainguide. But no stock bike is completely right on out of the box. For that price range there is no bike that even comes close, so don't even think twice, get some faith!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JC Rolz
a Downhiller
from Vancouver BC Date Reviewed: April 22, 2006
Floats over and through anything and everything.Rips high speed berms a new one. Climbs moderately well for a 46lb bike.
Weaknesses:
The pedals were way to slick and gripless. Junior-T isn't the best fork in terms of adjustability, but can be adjusted with a heavier oil weight or top-up. Single-wall tires are useless on the Shore.
Similar Products Used:
RM7, Switch, G-Spot, Slayer, Element, .243
Bike Setup:
66RC, Roadgap Flats, Michelin 2.8(f) and 2.5(r), Diabolus stem, EA70 Monkeylite bar, Ruffian lock-ons
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for ripping the gnarliest terrain. Giant really came through with this bike with a lot of consideration for the intended riders needs. The Faith is thoughtfully specced with a few notable exceptions. I'd buy it again if Cove hadn't come out with the Shocker, that is. All in all a stellar set-up for the money paid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JC
a Downhiller
from Ottawa, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: April 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
anything down
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Full Cycle
Strengths:
Awesome engineering
Weaknesses:
front fork seems alot better than the Jr T I rode last year but still not up to par. And the pedals suck even with fiveten shoes.
Similar Products Used:
RM6
Bike Setup:
Stock except for seat and pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike is amazing yea its got some weight but you dont buy a ride like this to go up hill. The rear suspension works like a dream and had me landing 8 foot drops the first day I was on it. The fork needs to be exchanged for a sturdier one but I'm 6'4 and 200 lbs. The only thing that got on my nerves was the Sram shifters its really easy to hit the shifter with your thumb and end up in a different gear but it might just be my banana hands. Bottom line if your looking for one bike to serve all your gravity needs from free riding to DH racing this will do it with ease.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Medina
a Downhiller
from carson City, nevada,usa Date Reviewed: March 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
downieville dh course
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Local shop
Strengths:
Every thing except the tires.
Weaknesses:
Tires the single wall crap sucks!!! OOooo yea the pedals suck!
Similar Products Used:
Kona stinky(2006)
Bike Setup:
stock with the exception of new grips, tires, and pedals
Bottom Line:
The bike rocks!!! I have hit some 12 foot drops to flat and the bike took it great. People are complaining about the forks being to soft but i only weight a whopping 130lbs. so it is hella good for me. If you wanna go big and huck or get hella style get the giant faith!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zach Moore
a Downhiller
from San Luis Obispo, CA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Tower/Mr. Toads
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
-No pedal bob -Advertised with a swinger 3 way when it comes with a 4way -Long wheelbase makes for a sturdy racing bike -Hayes hydrolic 8" rotors front and rear -SPV and Open Bath on suspension -"Meastro" keeps the rear tire on the ground much better -Pedals like a hardtail
Weaknesses:
The stock tires pinch really easy.
Similar Products Used:
Intense M1
Bike Setup:
Downhilling/ Drops
Bottom Line:
The bike is excelent, Giant really came back with this one and I think it is probobly one of my favioret bikes. I love the downhill and the drops but a lot of my freinds take the FSR's on these 13 mile XC rides and the little you lose climbing you will catch them on the down. The only thing I didnt like about the layout is why not just put the Monster T's on for a true 8X8. Dont get me wrong the Jr. T's can take the 10' flat drop but 8" is better than 7". Its amazing how you get on the bike do a bunny hop and your like "crap the suspension is stiff" but once you get passed that first valve on the Swinger 4 way its a smooth ride from there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from N.Van Date Reviewed: January 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Cypress
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
What a great ride. Tracks beautifully while still soaking up the big hits. Pedals great for a 8.25" travel bike. Frame is super stiff as is the 150mm rear end. Drivetrain performs flawlessly: X-type and Sram. Wheels seem pretty solid too.
Weaknesses:
No weaknesses except for a few parts noted in other posts. Paint marks easily.
Similar Products Used:
02 Norco Fluid, 03 Kona Stinky, 04 Big Hit Expert
Bike Setup:
04 SuperT, Mich 2.5" Comp16/24, ODI Ourys, Crank Bro 50/50 pedals and Sram PC-69 chain.
Bottom Line:
The new Maestro suspensiondesign is very active in all situations, even under braking. I really couldn't ask for a smoother ride that handles the way the Faith does. Giant even upped the prices on the 06 Faith line(same as the 05s) because they know they have a winner.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Donnelly
a Downhiller
from Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom Date Reviewed: December 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any DH
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
giant-bikes.com
Strengths:
Everything is perfect. Suspention, gears, handle grips, its weight, brakes,wheels are all perfect.
Weaknesses:
pedals
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler, Norco A-Line, Orange Patriot, Foes Racing and Orange 333
Bike Setup:
Custom.
Bottom Line:
Fantastic bike on downhill tracks. I highly recommend this bike if you have the money. Has not failed me once. Giant make fantastic bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Noah Rubin
a Downhiller
from portland or, usa Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
performance cycles
Strengths:
everything; frame, looks, componentsand above all, the pedal ability. It pedals like a hard tail, seriously!
Weaknesses:
pedals
Similar Products Used:
stinky deelux, bighitfsr, v10
Bike Setup:
stock except saint derailers and a swinger 4way
Bottom Line:
This i sthe best bike ever. The maestro suspension allows for actual vertical wheel travel, not arc (like almost all others). Also, it doesn't have petal bob. I didn't believe the hype, that and 8 inch travel bike has no pedal bob, but once I rode it, i found it to be true. I beat my friend, who is in better shape and rides a coiler (2 inches less in the front and back), up every hill, or when peddling is needed. Get thi bike if you have the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sam
a Weekend Warrior
from sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: November 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any DH
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3150.00
Purchased At:
bike addiction
Strengths:
everything! it just eats up the rough stuff. it pedals up hills better than my old hardtail. it smashes the drops sooo smoothly. its fine for cross country. it really does everything well. As for the DH... its so solid and confidence inspiring.
Weaknesses:
its a bit heavy. i got stuck a couple of times following the XC brigade up some technical rocky sections.
Similar Products Used:
kona coiler and stinky giant atx
Bike Setup:
stocky
Bottom Line:
love it to pieces! im more of a freeride/downhiller than a cross country bandit. but alot of my friends like the XC so i do a bit of it. this bike really does it all for me. it makes anything interesting, u can huck or jump just about anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Max Ramos
a Downhiller
from Nevada City, Ca, US Date Reviewed: November 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
watertower
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
northstar
Strengths:
this bike will soak up most of the stuff you throw at it. I landed a 10 ft to flat and the bike handled it great.(except fork)
Weaknesses:
Fork is too soft, Pedals suck, tires are weak and the seatpost is a bad design for downhilling(I cracked the bolt on the first real ride).
Similar Products Used:
vp-free, big hit fsr, a-line
Bike Setup:
a-frame pedals,888 up front in the near future, wtb timberwolf tires.
Bottom Line:
this is a good bike if your on a budget, the maestro suspension is great. But if youre looking for a race bike you shoud probably upgrade to giant dh comp/team or a faith 1.
amazing, flawless suspention, super smooth and very adjustable. beefed-up-frame, nice bars
Weaknesses:
pedals
Similar Products Used:
Norco atomik 2003
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Listen, the forks are fine. Ive nosed caised a 13 fotter went over the bars and the bike continued the DH with out me. After I found my bike in the woods, nothing was busted, the paint had a few scratches but no dents considering the bike nailed a tree at about 45km/h thats pretty good. but the suspention is flawless and handles well with flat landings.
Happy Rydin'
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc
a Downhiller
from Montreal, QC Date Reviewed: October 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
#18 at Bromont
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Piches Ski and Sport in NH
Strengths:
-Good Lord. Bottomless rear travel. Unreal compliance with whatever it travels over. -Amazing Value For Money! -high speed handling -pedal bob. what pedal bob? -sram thumb trigger shifters. very nice -lots of small good things, good headset, Easton Everything, raceface evolve, sram...
Weaknesses:
-pedals. someone needs to get shot. they're ok to put on a street bike for your cousin so he doesn't cut his shins but thinks he's so hot. -front deraileur, lose the front shifter and put on a chain guide.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, Rocky Mountain RMX
Bike Setup:
Stock cept for Shimano DX pedals.
Bottom Line:
Ok, some things to clear up. Kenda tires are fine. put enough PSI in an you will never pinch. i urban ride with thise puppies and i never pinch flats. when i do, its my back tire, with a lack of psi.
Front fork is fine. I weigh 150 pounds and i have not bottomed out yet. Even so, your bank for buck, can't go wrong with Junior T's.
This is by far the best bike for your money. You will not find this technology and setup for a better price. If you are hardcore, big drops and the likes, you're gonna have a Giant Glory or something more pricey. This is an excellent bike to get good on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dennis
a Weekend Warrior
from jersey Date Reviewed: October 5, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
my shop
Strengths:
everything besides the pedals.
Weaknesses:
pedals.
Similar Products Used:
kona stab primo.
Bike Setup:
stock.
Bottom Line:
this is a pretty sick bike since i only paid 1100 for it so i cant reall complain. i put some atomlab trail pimps on it for free so im pumped. its fun just to rip downhill with it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Oneal
a Downhiller
from Mission,B.C,Can Date Reviewed: October 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Dirt Merchant/ A Line/ Hucks
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Price is can/ North Shore Cycles
Strengths:
almost everything. il ike the pedals they are nice for getting your feet off in the air
Weaknesses:
just the tires ..such thin side walls, and maybe rims but they are still holding up - fork is sof ..but u can put a thicker oild in it
Similar Products Used:
bighit, gemini(love it still) bullit
Bike Setup:
stock ..
Bottom Line:
Nice Bike especially for the price ..dont find an 8 inch bike for that price besides a kona..but who likes kona honestely? Its 5 and 5 in my mind ..u night want to through on a bigger .. or stronger fork like 888, or boxxers for over 15 footers ..does pretty well going up hill ..but i prefer shuttles
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Wegman
a Downhiller
from Whistler Date Reviewed: August 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
No Joke to Too tight to Angry Pirate to Wrld Cup Single Track to HOChiMin to Heart of Drkness
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Cove Bikes
Strengths:
The bike is spot on. The long wheel base, short cockpit, seat tube and fork angles are great. Climbs well although its a bit heavy. Suspension system with the Manitou Swinger 4 way is great.
Weaknesses:
The pedals as we all know...bad The paint looked like I had been riding for a season after my first three muddy rides. Chips and scratches all over. I am going on my second free wheel hub (see my review of Formula Hubs). Giant has been great with replacing them but how many will I go through before it gets fixed properly? I have been having trouble with the Manitou Swinger 4 way but that is for a review elsewhere right?
Similar Products Used:
All my other bikes have been XC
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the Park, Whistler valley trails, even quick rides to the Gone! coffee shop. If I can get this rear hub issue resolved I will be much happier.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Art Aguilar
a Racer
from Costa Mesa,CA Date Reviewed: August 7, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
ATOMICBIKES
Weaknesses:
Although the Kenda tires grip well w/sticky-e the side walls as we all agree SUCK. Yes pedels gone. TRY to take off rim from bike,PAIN. Sorry guys the paint I don't know I powder coated mine team blue ft & black rear.Looks cool.
I've had 4 months to ride and race the bike on mellow to extreem trails and corses & handling,suspension are spot on.Now I like the shock placement low like on the TEAM orCOMP,but hope no more if you have not already seen next years DH bike.It looks like a REIGN on steroids.Well the 2 has very little short comings and all the strenths of a well made bike to freeride&race DH ,so if your looking for good bang for the buck & good specs well worth it. Happy desending.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
josh darren
a
from canada Date Reviewed: July 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
anything besides uphill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Almost everything this bike rules! I am a light rider and this bike easily handles everything i dish out. Has an awesome look. The bike just keeps asking for more. It just laughs at the biggest jumps, ruts, and drops out their. We took a ride on the shore and it was almost like the bike was built for it. The junior t can handle everything sofar so i dont think i need to change it like in the review below me.
Weaknesses:
Giant sorta cheaped out on the pedals.
Similar Products Used:
kona stinky and stab line.
Bike Setup:
A frame pedals.
Bottom Line:
This bike is really sweet i just love its whole feel. I think any freeride downhiller could use one of these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jack russel
a Weekend Warrior
from california Date Reviewed: July 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
slippery lizard
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
not tellin
Strengths:
The frame is strong and the pedals worked better for me than the other reviewers said. I like the feel of the junior t in rock gardens.
Weaknesses:
Wouldnt be so great for a resort like whistler. The travel is a little soft so i wouldnt recomend doing anything bigger than a 15 footer. I snapped my fork on mine.
Similar Products Used:
Demo 8
Bike Setup:
888 in front
Bottom Line:
This is a bike built for going fast and doing smaller freeride obstacles. Those who are into that type of stuff should look no further than the faith 2 but if you are into flying higher or dropping further you should look into the specialized, santa cruz, or kona line. Overall a great all around bike espescially for what i paid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel
a
from Sacramento, CA Date Reviewed: July 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Northstar
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
NA
Strengths:
- Smooth, well put together frame design - Tough components for the most part - Manitou is very adjustable and reliable - Frame geometry great for dh / fr - Very little pedal bob - Solid rims and 20mm thru axel - Derailleurs and brakes
Weaknesses:
- Fork (too soft) - Pedals... completely awful for any kind of technical trail. Sell them to some little kid for 50 bucks and buy some A-Frames
Similar Products Used:
V10, Kona Stinky Deelux, Big hit expert
Bike Setup:
P.2
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike. I was very impressed the day that I rode it. The frame handles downhills beautifully because of the amazing frame design. Geometry / travel is excellent for dh / fr and Manitou in the rear will keep coming back for more. Rims, cranks, bottom bracket, front axel, all very tough and ready for a beating.
Fork is simple and reliable, but not made for the big hits. Handles technical sections fairly well, but will bottom on a 4 foot drop to a downhill landing. Adjustability is very... non-existent. You can twist the knobs for compression and rebound all day and not see any changes in my experience... very weird. Maybe I got the defect from the factory, I dunno. Some heavier oil / springs should help, but if you wanna get serious into downhilling -- of course go for a 888 = amazing fork.
Don't even bother with the stock pedals.
Overall a very nice ride and I am definitely considering buying one. I was very surprised and impressed on its downhill capabilities. Suspension works beautifully on technical sections and will put the power to the pavement on straight-aways. Try one out and you won't regret it. 9 / 10 flamming turds.
Ride Hard Guys
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Farm Gas
a Downhiller
from Houston Date Reviewed: June 25, 2005
awsome bike but I needed to do a bunch of cable rerouting so the crapy paint wouldn't wear off, sharpen up the pegs on the pedal and their no longer the worst pedals ever built anymore, besaides a few cosmedic thing the bike rides, hucks and pedals like no other 8' bike out there or even 7' or 6' for that matter.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: June 22, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Any of the many
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
- best value for the dollar - bottomless rear travel - pedals very well, even with lower SPV psi - short cockpit and long wheelbase - 150mm x 12mm rear axle/hub - very solid feel throughout - x type cranks - SRAM X7 drivetrain - WTB saddles are my fav
Weaknesses:
- some would say it's not great for XC at 45lbs - Single wall Kenda Tomac series tires are an attempt to save weight, not your rims - Truvativ should be ashamed of their pedals - unproven Alex Supra BH(Big Horn) rims, although I have had any issues yet
Stock except... new tires, pedals, stem, grips and chain
Bottom Line:
Giant has been a great company to deal with, both in product and support. The Faith handle like a dream. Speed is definitely it's friend. It's a little heavier than I'm use to, but I only feel it on short climbs. A little more time in the saddle and I'll be back to update this review.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scotty
a
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: June 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Whistler and the North Shore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Good bang for the buck Serious travel Excellent pedaling Braking power
Weaknesses:
Pedals could be up for a class action lawsuit. Possible the worst design I've ever seen. Don't even think of riding with them even around the parking lot. You will rake your shin. I nearly killed my self off a little booter when the foot slipped off for the 80th time.
Tires - Seriously Giant, its a DH bike why put XC tires on it? I haven't had a flat in two years with my trail bike (thanks to the dh tires) and the first real ride I took the bike on (North Shore which I've ridden a lot) I had two pinch flats!
Handlebar Grips - they need to be replaced too.
Paint job - You scratch it just looking at it. Its the same thing with my VT. After one good ride it looks 6 months old. I'm running out of stickers to cover up the damage.
Minor stuff but its a $2000+ bike throw down some good pedals and tires Giant. I'd have paid the extra $75 bucks it would have cost you, now I'm out over $175...
Similar Products Used:
my buddy's VP-Free, Giant VT, Yetti ASX
Bike Setup:
New Tires (Maxis), New Pedals (Azonic), New Grips (ODI), Got a screaming deal on the 66rc 7inch ($400). The rest is stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is good, real good.
Jumps and drops, I don't even feel the landings even when I don't make it to the tranny and flat land. I doubt I'll ever max out the rear shock. Eight inches is nice to have. And I love the 66!
Speed, handles best when moving fast. The longer wheel base gives it a ton of stability but its giving me some difficulties negotiating the skinnies (especially when I have to pedal up to get on them) but that will change the longer I ride and get used to the set up. It's way different than my old trail bike (a VT).
Climbing - You aren't going to win any races going up. Make sure you have a lot of water in the Camelbak because on a long climb you are going to need it. But the SPV is amazing, barely any bob (which is great when cranking hard going down).
Overall, I'd seriously give Giant a chance. The put out a great product. You can't beat a this bike with any other mid 2k bike, especially with 8 inches of rear travel and a rear spv platform. I'm very impressed and this bike is taking me to the next level.
Get one.
I'll see you at Whistler!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruno Brideau
a Weekend Warrior
from Qc City, Quebec (Canada) Date Reviewed: May 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Mont Ste-Anne
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Demers Bicycles, Qc City
Strengths:
Plush as hell! Lots of travel No bob (big +) 10 mm rear axle Solid feeling Very nimble in tight and technical trails Don't fell like a +40lbs bike SPV 4 way coil is magic Sherman Slider if awesome
Weaknesses:
Kenda tires : sidewalls are like a sheet of paper Pedals : Truvativ Holzfeller pins are not big and grippy enough, should have pedals with replacable pins Saddle : not comfortable at all and too small Rear axle : hard to remove with a SRAM derailleur wire in front of the screw
Similar Products Used:
Giant AC2 Kona Stinky Specialized Big Hit RM Edge Devinci Banzai etc
Bike Setup:
Stock but changes the fork for a Sherman Slider (6" version with TPC damping)
Bottom Line:
This bike eats everything in its path, anything : jumps, drops, ruts, cars, trucks...ANYTHING! This is by far the best bike I ever tried , period. As always, Giant put the best available package of parts at a more than fair price. I received the bike on Friday the 13 (2 days ago) and tried it for 7 runs yesterday in Bromont on a semi-rainy day...! WOW! I am probably the first person to own a Faith 2 in the province of Quebec (by the reaction of the other people I think so !) and I am really not disappointed with my new rig. But my fun ends at the sedond run of the day with a pinch flat (thanks to the crappy Kenda Blue Groove tires) and another pinch flat on the 5th run (this time the tire was wied oprn) Grrrrrr ... After a change of rear tire, everything felt right under my skinnies and the magic was back! Only time will tell but my first impression is excellent. 3 bad component choices that should have been avoided : tires, pedals, saddle. Maybe the bad weather (or my old shoes) influenced the performance of the pedals (even if they're beautiful) but I slipped a lot of times. Will see in the coming weeks... Thumbs up Giant for this great bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Monkey
a Weekend Warrior
from Duxbury Date Reviewed: May 4, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$12000.00
Purchased At:
Would u like to know
Strengths:
Nice sux up all things u throw a it even some big hits ...Also it came wit a Ft saint der. and a 4-way not a 3 as another review above me...Sweet
Weaknesses:
Ft shock is a little soft but nothing a coil or oil change cant fix
Similar Products Used:
none that matches it
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
nice bike for your average freeride mtn biking and for hitting some 15 footers... gets the job done for me. Also i will get back on other things as i ride it more.
Also i like the little bonus of part upgrade they gave me...THANX
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Art Aguilar
a Racer
from Costa mesa,CA,USA Date Reviewed: April 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
ATOMICBIKES
Strengths:
Maestro suspension,overall spec layout excellent for freeriding.
Weaknesses:
I'll get back to you.
Similar Products Used:
Giant DH Team &Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock now ,near future Boxxer team,chain giude,44t-42t ring and( now aval.&on bike)Romic shock.
Bottom Line:
For freeride the bike is perfect. The weight 44-45# same as dh bike.Handling while racing spot on ,just need a bigger ring.Overall geometry degree or two diff from dh Giant.I like my Romic on the faith better then swinger.Bottom line as it sits out of box worth it for dh add a chain giude and go racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bobby Sanford
a Downhiller
from enfield Nova Scotia Canada Date Reviewed: March 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
bone road
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2250.00
Purchased At:
bicycles plus
Strengths:
the suspension is great with almost no pettle Bob.
Weaknesses:
nothing really
Similar Products Used:
Santa cruz s8
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
The bike is amazing . It sucks up the big stuff and spitz it back out . tiny bit heavy but it's nothing. great for doing any thing that u want except for driving slow. keep at high speed .The handling is amazing.good for downhill and freeriding.I will have another review after 3 mounths.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
frango
a Weekend Warrior
from poland Date Reviewed: March 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any going from top to the bottom
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
cost price at local distributor
Strengths:
Maestro suspension system, components, design
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz s8
Bike Setup:
stock, except pedals - SPD 545, Boxxer Race '05
Bottom Line:
the bike looks just great, all these curves, welds... I have had it for less than 1 week and as spring didn't started in Poland yet :( I didn't have opportunity to test it. The good thing is that you don't feel these 20,25kg when you pedal... but it's not so easy to lift it when you jump... I hope it's partly the matter of the suspension which doesn't compress as easily as S8's. it was a nice surprise when I took the bike out of the box and I saw Swinger 4way instead of 3way and Saint FD instead of LX - few $ saved. I will update this (p)review next week. ps: I will post more pics at Giant forum
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$ 2250.00
Overall Rating:
