Submitted by
Thomas Scrinzi
a Cross Country Rider
from Altach Austria Date Reviewed: July 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
everything you can ride
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Wheel on the Planet
Strengths:
nice quality, the bike still looks brand new and work fine.
Weaknesses:
Seat and the Brakes
Similar Products Used:
KTM 3000G Prototype
Bike Setup:
Orginal Setup
Bottom Line:
I-Drive works fine but i had to adjust after a hard down hill ride. Breaks should be XT not LX
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gerald Heuman
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Wa. USA Date Reviewed: May 20, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Almost any Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
The Local Pawn Shop
Strengths:
Smooth ride, good looks, good components, light weight. and it is unique. Not to many otheres like this are out there. This baby still looks new and turns heads.
Weaknesses:
I have found none at this time.
Similar Products Used:
Giant (Sadona SE), Diamond Back (Ascent EX)
Bike Setup:
This unit was the Millennium Edition, made for the model year 2000. The Millennium Editions were custom ordered from the dealers and could be oufitted with almost any parts, and were priced from $2000 to $3600 US. This unit came with the following items on it: Front Shock- "Rock Shox Judy XL-C" extended travel. Rear Shock-"Fox Vanilla Float RC". Brakes-"Shimano XTR "V-Brakes Rim Style". Rims-"Valiant 26". Tires-"Panaracers Fire RC Pro". Rear Cassette-"Shimano Laser Cut XTR". Front Ring Gears and crank-"Shimano XTR with Bio Pace". Saddle-"Sella Italia". Handle Bars-"Easton Monkey Lite" Carbon composite. Color-"Mango over Eggplant". (custom for this edition and year only). Originally ordered by Moab Cyclery and cost $3129.00 US.
Bottom Line:
Here we go, "The Bottom Line". In reaserching the pros and cons of this bike there was one major con that kept popping up. This was it"s frame design. There is a problem with bad welds on the seat post mount on some units. But in digging further into this problem, it became clear that most of the post where about people using this bike out side of it's design parameters, or pushing the bike to far. A large group of posts were from riders doing hard trail riding, or heavy jumping and or down hilling with their bikes. Granted at around $3000 one would think that one can do this and not have their investment break on them. (It is my bet that GT tried to design this model to be an all "around unit", and did not take into hand that there are people out there who want to get the most out of a ride, and would push the limits). But I digress. If you are looking for a unit that can be used for city streets, and going on the dirt trails, this is a good choice. Don't use this bike to jump the house or run it off the edge of a clif. This frame will not hold up to that type of use. It was designed to be used in a "trail riding, mountain biking" type application. For me this bike is a dream come true. I was going to buy a new Giant, but when this 7 year old beauty with her good looks was spotted, I was hooked. Happy Riding Jerry
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
russ knell
a Weekend Warrior
from leeds Date Reviewed: October 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
e-bay
Strengths:
versatile, strong(so far) positive ride, lite for a full sus.
Weaknesses:
not much for me, you do need to change quite a bit to get it right. value ratings down because i spent quite a bit and i am again!
Similar Products Used:
scott FX G Zero X2, Gary Fisher cake 2 delux, cyote(something-cant remember)and a second gt(idrive 4.0)
Bike Setup:
hope M4 front disc(185) on a specialized stout 12mm bolt through hub and mavic X221 rim, marzocci marathon sl forks, chris king a-head,hope 90mm stem, easton ea70 monkey light bars. race face xc chain set,dmr v8's,xt bb,xt chain,xtr f/mech,xt rear,ea70 post, selle italia TI saddle, xtr rear v-break, lx rear hub,mavic 717 rim,xt cassette,and panaracer fire Xc pro's F+R.
Bottom Line:
standard can be iffy, but the frames are wicked if you get a US built one and not a far east one.i think the last US built ones may of been 2000/2001, build it to what you want and there is no stopping you. up or down. DH specific is a bridge too far but the kind of down hill you find on natural trails ect it kicks as~. climbs fantastic.best climbing full sus ive tried yet. some say its heavy but i go riding with a lad on a pace RC303 (great english hard tail) and fully built up his only just shades mine. like it so much i bought another frame(i-drive 4.0) which ive stripped and sprayed to build a heavy duty more aggresive bike, 150mm travel, big rims,disc front and back etc. GREAT FRAME! not made for fattys!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tebashe
a Cross Country Rider
from Chatou Date Reviewed: October 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Foret du Port Marly
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Van Nuys California
Strengths:
I've had this bike since '99. I've ridden parks and trails from california to Illinois to Spain to The Netherlands. This bike Kicked much A#§. This was my first full suspension and i can tell you the way I was able to attack hills made me feel like a super jock when I bolted past my buddies on the upsides... The chosen stock equipment has served me well up till today. ALL XTR dont hurt eh?? The only thing i've had to replace are brake pads and chanrings, and headset. Point and ride ease of use. Whereever I placed the front tire she'd go. My problem was only placing the front tire!! (read below)
Weaknesses:
I had trouble with speed and cornering. I could never get into a corner with the stability I liked. i don't know why. Maybe my riding style was too squirrely. At times I could hit the downside of a hill with some speed behind me. I'd point and go she'd folloz my every whim on the descent, however when i'd have to recover into a turn, I had to burn some brake pad, in order to get in and out of the corner safely. Front end seemed a bit light in short.
Similar Products Used:
tried many loved one!
Bike Setup:
Factory XTR
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Yesterday on 44K XC I snapped the seat post on an uphill (Nope no scrotum stitches - Thank God. hozever i hadn't been so disappointed in years. how could Gt make such a great bike with a seat post flaw?? Crap.. Oh well now I'm searching for my next GT victim. I've ridden others but considering the uphill performance and overall durability of the XCR I'll stick with GT!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
unhappy
a Cross Country Rider
from Pennsylvania Date Reviewed: March 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
The frame and GT
Bottom Line:
These frames have some sort of design flaw. I ride with a group that purchased 7 GT full suspensions ranging from the XCR LE to the 1.0. EVERY SINGLE ONE developed cracks in the frame. Most around the seat tube area. GT/Pacific will do nothing to support my LBS guy when he tries to collect on warranties. My bike was not even a year and a half old.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PC
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston, MA, USA Date Reviewed: September 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tick-tock
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
didn't
Strengths:
Very strong, some low level squeak in the I-drive but clean and lube took care of that. Have done nothing but hard hitting riding. From the streets of Boston to the side of Loon Mountain and even some riding in Belgium!!
Weaknesses:
squeak as mentioned, decals have peeled after some VERY hardcore riding. Tires aren't very quality but what do you want?
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Gary Fisher, Trek
Bike Setup:
modified stock, (see Bottom-line)
Bottom Line:
Bought a XCR3000, CRACKED the frame, so GT replaced the frame with a 1000 frame and FOX air shock, offered to sell me all upgraded componants at a lower price, but I was fine with what I had. Took very good care of me. I even got a call from a district sales rep to fix things up. Have had great experence helping a friend buying a GT as well. A little tough to learn to ride. I say if you got a billion to blow shoot for this, if not don't even try.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yogi
a
from Sydney Australia Date Reviewed: September 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anything technical
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Le spit Cyclery
Strengths:
I Drive.(best FS concept means no chain jag while pedaling during heavy R susspension action... The BEst climbing bike cause of this. Push harder up a hill go faster..And fly past everyone on the uphill. Tracks really nice on the down hill. Not my favorite at XC race day but very very good for the LONG HAUL
Weaknesses:
Heavy. The company has gone KAPUTSKI NO WARRANTEES NO MORE.
Similar Products Used:
nothing is similar to the I DRIVE
Bike Setup:
XC. long stem, high seat
Bottom Line:
Fantastic comfort bike with the ability to do any trail concidering the steepr down hill you go the shorter stem and lower seat. Its a great bike, alas its a tad heavy. I have raced this macine XC and used it as a city basher too... it dont like going down steps too much with high preasure slicks very much but it can hack the beating...
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS TIGHTEN THE DOG BOLT(Small hex in large head(bad design)) to make the I-Drive unit last longer... mine lasted 2 years of abuse and exchanging the bearings was easy(compared to some)
Great Value cause of IDRIVE.
Very great all round bike.
DONT FORGET... dont expect a warrantee with this bike anymore.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Carmichael
a Racer
from Issaquah, WA Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$799.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
i-drive
Weaknesses:
GT/SCHWINN CUSTOMER SERVICE PIVOTS WEAR OUT VERY QUICKLY
Bottom Line:
DO NOT BUY GT/SCHWINN PRODUCTS. Since this company is bankrupt, they are not warranting products or shipping parts. My main pivot has about a 1/4 inch of slop side-to-side, I have a local shop doing the warranty, GT has the parts, but will not and cannot ship anything. What a joke...What's really frustrating is that the rear pivot is just going to wear out again in a couple of months of riding...If you're buying a full suspension frame, spend the extra money and get a frame that has sealed cartridge bearings at all pivots. It may cost twice as much now, but it will save you money in the long run and you'll have a lot less headaches...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
spencer bob
a
from aklsdfj Date Reviewed: June 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
nice good bike
Weaknesses:
spencer owns one
Similar Products Used:
giant atx-1 team dh
Bike Setup:
cruiser style
Bottom Line:
nice bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ormond Jobin
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto ON Canada Date Reviewed: May 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Toronto Don
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Sport Swap
Strengths:
Wicked trail bike
Weaknesses:
GT is the worst bike co. out there. DO NOT BUY GT EVER. The upper shock bolt broke. GT will not let me buy a replacement direct. In Canada, Norco is the dealer and they suck @#%&. It has been almost 3 weeks since i ordered a replacement, Still waiting.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bottom Line:
Before you buy any GT make sure your dealer has replacement on hand or do not buy. Most bike stores suck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonny D
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland newzeland Date Reviewed: April 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
LEVIN NATIONAL DOWNHILL
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Barn
Strengths:
This bike used to climb like a mountain goat but with my seat up it only goes in one direction ,DOWN!!! its a downhill and duel slalom beast now.
Weaknesses:
bit flimsy but hey what do u expect from a xc bike set up with long travel
Similar Products Used:
UMMM dunno
Bike Setup:
ROCK SHOX pshylo sl , BRAND NEW REAR SHOCK Fox Vanilla Ds (with short travel) ahhaha , full xt components
Bottom Line:
my bike is a monster now and i love it its huge and can take the hits of NZ secondary school DS nationals. i love this beast . it makes a few clunks every now and then and im expecting her to snap one day but hey live it up whilst its still goin ay
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from the greater midwest Date Reviewed: April 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
love canal
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Local shop
Strengths:
Very good climber. Excellent downhill. Some what light for a dual suspension bike.
Weaknesses:
I am now on my THIRD frame. I don't mind this that much except to say that the first frame broke very unexpectedly and caused my to miss 5 weeks of riding due to the 43 stitches that were placed in my sack (as in scrotum). The "seat mast" snapped in the worst possible location at the worst possible time--a CLIMB no less!
The break has also occured on the subsequent "warranty" frame that GT sent me. On my most current frame all is well so far--I've only ridden it a dozen times on the sidewalk.
Similar Products Used:
GT Zaskar, Kona Stab,
Bike Setup:
Factory stock. New seat & seat post now.
Bottom Line:
When it works, it works well. I have had the best and worst of times on this. It also works well as a pick up line with easy biker-chick women. I bet them their pants that this really happened--it can only be proved by the scar tissue. Once I prove my "scar", bada bing! Like I said, I've had the best and worst of times on this bike. I would not recommend this experience to anyone else though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pablo Escalante
a Weekend Warrior
from Mexico City Date Reviewed: February 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Strengths:
Overall frame quality. Very plush and confortable ride. Looks. i-drive. Greate handling.
Weaknesses:
Uneven travel in standard setup.
Bike Setup:
Vanilla Fox R. Rokshox Sid XC. Avid ArchRival 50 Brakes. Shimano XT Components, Spinergy Spox M1 Wheelset. Panaracer Fire XC Tires
Bottom Line:
This is the greatest bike I have ever ridden. It handles great, climbs great, descends great and it’s so comfortable. The complete bike is expensive, however, I would recommend anyone to buy at least the frame and build it up according to you budget if you want to have one very serious bike. Doesn’t matter which components you chose. This b
I bought my frame here in Mexico for us$900.00 and built the bike importing parts as frequent as I could for over a period of 8 months. I got a little carried away and ended up with a slightly better setup than that of the standard setup (almost for the same price). That is except for the Sid XC fork which, although is great, I would have preferred on the long run to buy a Sid 100 to match the rear suspension. This would have increased the price but with the benefit of having a really great all-purpose bike. The longer travel would surely be appreciated in any single track/free ride experience. This bike is just worth the price.
Buy this bike and you will have heads turning while you pass as the proud owner of one of the best rides ever built. Don’t buy it... your head will be turning as you spot one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Carmichael
a Racer
from Issaquah, WA, USA Date Reviewed: January 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Poison Spider - Moab
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$799.00
Purchased At:
Supergo Online
Strengths:
I-drive for climbing Fox shock for plushness Good Lookin' colors and design
Weaknesses:
Weird clicking noises from I-drive Heavy for x-country racing No rear disc mount
Similar Products Used:
K2 5000
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Bomber, Azonic bar/stem, Race Face cranks, Thompson post, XTR, Chris King, etc...
Bottom Line:
Just a sweet all-around frame to build up. I run two different set-ups: one for freeriding and jumping, then swap the tires, bar/stem, and pedals and it becomes a great cross-country race or 24 hour race bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Higham
a Downhiller
from Danville, Ca. Date Reviewed: December 5, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Bike store (frame)
Strengths:
This bike dose it all from a bit of downhill, free riding, cross country, jumps. The i-drive makes the bike flow down hill.
Weaknesses:
No disks for the rear on 1999 frames.
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z1, mostly XTR parts, some XT. SID dual air rear.
Bottom Line:
This bike is well worth it. I only payed $600 for the frame. This bike dose it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Philip
a Cross Country Rider
from Kodiak, Alasak, USA Date Reviewed: November 9, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
i-drive works pretty well when standing and stomping on the pedals. Overall construction is outstanding. CNC machining a work of art and a feat of engineering. Easily servicable and well sealed/designed i-drive eccentric system. Light. Good looking. Fun to ride. Durable?
Weaknesses:
Bobs a little while seated even at high shock spring rates. And I pedal pretty smoothly too. The dog bone seems like a stop-gap measure. It's adequate, though not as sophisticated and nice as the rest of the bike. No disk brake tabs in the back?! What's up with that?!
Similar Products Used:
My first full suspension. I've ridden a little on a friend's Sugar 2 and DBR XR-4.
Bike Setup:
SID XC and SID dual air rear. Full XTR throughout.
Bottom Line:
Pretty darn impressed by this bike, and I NEVER thought I'd own a GT (kinda like I swear I'll never buy a Trek, Giant, Canyonsnail, or any of the big-brother companies) but I got it off eBay for a song, and I'm still singing. My first dualie, and I like it, though I'm not selling my hardtail yet. The top tube seems a little short (I have the size large and I'm 5'11") so I'm running a 150mm 5 degree stem with flat bars (XC setup).
i-drive works admirably, though not entirely the panacea that GT makes it out to be, I doubt there is a better design out there right now. Smooth, pretty quiet, and stiff. Well designed and executed. Quality parts and construction. the i-drive is easy to overhaul and maintain. Dog-bone can be a little noisy, but I probably just need new bushings.
Climbs well, great descender, good in the tight stuff. I highly recommend this bike, though after seeing what can be had used if you look for a good enough bargain, I'm not sure I would pay full retail for it. Perhaps a year-end sale. I'm giving it 5 burning cats for value based on the price I paid on eBay, though it only deserves 3 or 4 at full retail. A full 5 for overall though, because of the ride and construction. Get one and you won't be sorry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Ryles
a Cross Country Rider
from Destin, Florida Date Reviewed: October 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Unicoi, Stone Wall
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Super Go
Strengths:
Quality build, smooth ride, climbs like a hard tail, polished frame looks way cool.
Weaknesses:
Maybe a little porky. Mine went 28lbs on a commercial scale
Similar Products Used:
None. Spent last three years on an XT spec'd Klein Attitude
Bike Setup:
XT, XTR, RaceFace, Thompson, Marzocchi, Fox Vanilla R, 517's with Panaracer Fire Pros
Bottom Line:
I promised myself an FS ride when I turned 50. Made it to 51 and I wish I had made the switch last year. I purchased a polished large frame from Super Go along with most of the parts. Hats off to Adam in sales and Jane is customer service--a plate of flaming chilis to each. This I-drive business really works in that you really can't tell it's there while riding. It climbs like my Klein but is so much faster on the really nasty, rooted, rocky down hills. The extra three pounds I don't even notice and is a worthwhile trade off for such a plush ride. On the first day I thought, old man you had better slow down 'cause if you eat it going this fast you are a goner. It was like getting my first long travel suspension motocross bike in the middle '70's. One odd thing about the I-drive set up. The front derailleur rotates as the rear suspension moves which can make shifting a problem unless the sag is set to about 8mm. Any plusher than that and I had problems shifting the front derailleur even though it worked perfectly well on the stand. That was about 270lbs in the Fox. My weight is 180lbs. Over all, a great ride. If you can find a '99 frame, grab it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zander Lens
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft. Collins Date Reviewed: October 6, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
This is the ultimate cross country bike. It climbs like a gem and downhills like a banshee. I am faster in every category on this bike than I ever was on my hardtail.
Weaknesses:
I have had a problem with breaking frames. I am on my third and it now has cracks in it. I haven't had anything snap on me, but there is always fatigue under the welds of the top triangle that attaches the rear shock to the frame.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first full suspension
Bike Setup:
Crosslink wheelset, XTR brakes, SID, Icon stem
Bottom Line:
This is a fantastic bike, it has done everything from fire roads to singletrack, and intense downhill in Vail CO on the world cup course. I wouldn't trade it in for anything, I just wish I could keep the frames from cracking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Bentley
a Cross Country Rider
from Gloucestershire, UK Date Reviewed: September 13, 2000
Bounce on road sections where you can feel the bikes weight, irritating clunks and rattles, 'dogbone' assembly play develops quickly, rear shock mounting play developed almost straight away. Impossible to 'red dot' it as per described as essential in the manual - I run 275 psi in the shock, and dare not go higher (I know you can push 300 if you really want to) - I think my weight is the max for this design - 13 English stones (13x14 lbs).
Similar Products Used:
LTS1000XCR (the ltd edition 1998 product XC lightwt special .... it busted )
Bike Setup:
Fantastic Mavic Crossmax wheelset, Tioga semislicks - a BIG plus for this machine to give it a really responsive feel, riser bars, XTR chainset for turbo overdrive, SID SL XC's in hideous blue (what a 'pants' colour - ruins the look of the bike), XTR brakes / ceramic pads for razor sharp stopping ......... now thats what you call a quality full susser
Bottom Line:
You need to spec-up the frame with nice expensive bits to get a lively responsive ride, and turn the XCR in to something that can chomp away at hardtail rivals. On the road it remains draining to keep a pace up, but up & down trails this tool is very very nice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RICH
a Cross Country Rider
from COLUMBUS,OHIO Date Reviewed: August 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
DIRTY ONES
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
LOOKS, WELDS, SUSPENSION, WEIGHT, DID I MENTION LOOKS
Weaknesses:
LIMITED TRAVEL
Similar Products Used:
GT STS DH, TREK VRX,
Bike Setup:
MOSTLY DH STUFF, IRC KUJO TIRES ON RHYNO RIMS WITH SHIMANO DISCS. RACE FACE CRANKS AND AZONIC STEM AND BAR. XT/XTR COMPOMENTS. X-VERT 4" SINGLE CROWN FORK.
Bottom Line:
GOING TO THIS BIKE AFTER THE STS DH, YOU GAIN AN APPRECIATION OF LONG TRAVEL. THE LIMITATIONS OF THIS BIKE WERE SOON NOTICED ON A TRIP TO SNOWSHOE. HOWEVER, I DID NOT BUY THIS BIKE FOR DH. IT BOMBS AS A MIDWEST AREA FREE RIDE BIKE SET UP AS I HAVE IT. WILL MOST LIKELY SWITCH TO A COIL OVER, BUT I LOVE THIS BIKE. JUMPS GREAT AND PERFORMANCE ONLY INCREASES WITH SPEED. SMOOTH OVER THE ROUGH STUFF AND SWEET ON CLIMBS. 4 FOOT DROP OFFS ARE ABOUT THE LIMIT WITH THE FOX AIR VANILLA. I'VE HEARD OF A 6' TRAVEL KIT FOR THIS FRAME AND I'M LOOKING FOR IT. IF ANY ONE KNOWS OF ONE, PLEASE CONTACT ME.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kenneth Martin
a Weekend Warrior
from Windsor, VA, US Date Reviewed: July 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
York River
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Fully active, no suspension bobbing, -proof frame design. CNC dropouts, head tube, brake post, and of course eccentric. Frame geometry allows the bike to easily handle the twisty, , root-infested, , single-track trails. Climbs like a mountain goat, descends with precision control, and jumps like a jack rabbit. I built the frame up with proof components. GT has a reputation for building bikes that last and their technical support department has been purely professional.
Weaknesses:
GT dot the "i" to adjust rear suspension set-up. The people who manufactured the bike stamped the arrow in the wrong place. GT is of course aware of the problem and has aided me in setting up the suspension properly.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale er V 900 Hardtail
Bike Setup:
'99 GT XCR 1000 (Ball burnished), 19"(L), White Brothers Total Air AT<4 (3.74"), King headset, XT-XTR MEGA-9 drivetrain, Crossland wheel set, Continental Explr. & Twister Pro tires, Lightweight butyl tubes, XT V-brakes. XT Rapidfire, Cables, Kore Easton Elite stem, Easton CT-2 Carbon bar, Serfas grips & saddle, Thomson Elite post, Bebop w/stainless steel spindle. I calculated all the weights to average out at 25.3 lbs. with the frame weighing 6.8 lbs. (I had the frame weighed on a precision electronic scale). I have yet to get the complete bike weighed, but everyone who rides a high-end fully at the trail testified to its incredible lightness.
Bottom Line:
Even though I have had the bike for only a month, I have spent over 40 hrs. off road and I can honestly say that you have to ride it to believe it. It really makes me a better and faster rider. It is light enough for a fully, it climbs, descends, jumps, turns, and handles like a mountain bike should ride. It is a single-track riders dream come true. Thanks to MtbReview and the guys at GT technical department for the help. I hope that the bike will continue to ride this great for a long time. I will review its durability after I have ridden it for several hundred hrs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimm
a Cross Country Rider
from SoCal Date Reviewed: July 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
SART
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This is a review on the LE "team" version of the XCR 1000. ZERO pedal feedback. Ride (smoooooooth, stable and controlled); light; lots of adjustments; looks good; GT name; very good riding down; excellent riding up. Very easy to set-up. Balanced suspension.
Weaknesses:
GT grips; mediocre LOOKING welds (far from the quality seen on the Klein)
Similar Products Used:
GT 8000; GT RTS; Klein Mantra
Bike Setup:
Ceramic 517's laced to XTR hubs; full XTR; SID XC Long Travel; SID shock.
Bottom Line:
Can't be considered a weakness for the bike -- but the SID allows for too much brake dive my liking. Handles GREAT! Fast, quick, responsive and light. If you have the guts to ride it, this bike will handle it. Fun, fun, fun!!! Has all the advantages of an URT without the pedal feedback and feet numbing. All the advantages of 4-bar without the weight and pedal feedback. Quick and precise shifts. Blasts technical single-track!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ruggero Pantani
a Weekend Warrior
from Chiasso-Switzerland Date Reviewed: June 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
technical SingleTrails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Rigida, bilanciata, robusta, veloce (fast, very fast),
Weaknesses:
price, weight
Similar Products Used:
GT XCR 1000
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Bomber Z1 CR, Formula MD-1 Front brakes, XT
Bottom Line:
ECCEZIONALE in salita FANTASTICA in discesa Scusate il mio inglese lo leggo ma non lo scrivo! immaginate come lo parlo!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
akiss paraskevopoulos
a Cross Country Rider
from athens,greece Date Reviewed: June 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
it is mistake-proof, wheels always on the ground
Weaknesses:
not very easy to fine tune the back and front derralier, but not impossible
Similar Products Used:
non
Bike Setup:
rock shox SID in frond fox-R in the back, and the rest stx-rc.
Bottom Line:
one word FUN......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Brown
a Cross Country Rider
from Paducah, KY Date Reviewed: June 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Canal Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Superb suspension design that works as well as GT says it would. Killer looks (polished). Smmoth and quiet over the rough stuff.
Weaknesses:
Cable routing was difficult. Long term maintenance of the I-drive system may be a problem. No rear disk brake mounts.
Similar Products Used:
1996 GT LTS-2, many other full suspension bikes.
Bike Setup:
Marrizochi Z2, all XT, Thompson seat post, Bontrager wheels & tires, WTB saddle, 747 pedals, and Gore-tex cables.
Bottom Line:
Bought a '99 frame at Supergo for $799 and built the bike from stuff off my old LTS-2 and some new parts. For about $1200 I have the best riding and handling bike I have ever tried. The suspension just plain works, though I can't really explain how. It climbs like a goat and decends FAST. I did a lot of research before deciding on this bike, and when Supergo made this frame available at such a good price it was a no-brainer. Even if I could afford the high-priced FS bikes, I would probably make the same choice.
Lots of older riders are looking for a more comfortable ride without giving up drive efficiency; look no further!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DP
a Cross Country Rider
from Garden Grove Date Reviewed: April 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Red Box
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Plush suspension performance with imperceptible efficiency loss while climbing.
Weaknesses:
If I had to complain, I'd say the factory wheel build on the rear was poor. Spokes on the non-drive side came loose for several rides. Overall uneven tension in the wheel. A few turns with a spoke wrench set it back where it oughta be and has stayed tight since then. Also I feel the SID long travel fork is a little flexy.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first FS. Previous MTB's include an old GT Backwoods and my last bike was an M2.
Bike Setup:
GT spec'd '99 model - XT/LX, some GT parts (bar, seat post, front hub), Mavic 221 rims, Time Atac Alium pedals...
Bottom Line:
Very fun ride! Seems to climb well with no suspension feedback into the drive train. The i-drive isolates the rear triangle just like advertised. The ~28 pound weight (XL frame) feels lighter on the trail (except for hike-a-bikes). The rear Fox Vanilla R suspension is very plush (even running at 300 psi). I go much faster down than I used to and whatever is lost on the climbs is more than compensated for while descending. The $1500 year-end price tag made it an excellent buy. I don't mind having LX brakes (I bet they stop every bit as well as XT, just not as stiff). The LX rear hub has proven to be durable - five years (~12,000 miles) on my last bike with no bearing/race/cup pitting. The LX front derailleur could be better (durability wise) but an XT replacement is cheap. The Time pedals have the best feel of any pedals I've owned due to the free lateral float, easy entry and release (never inadvertantly). GT spec'd the bike with a good package for the price. Overall the bike is an excellent value and a well engineered machine. If your looking for a sweet bike that climbs well and descends gangbusters, be sure to consider one of the XCR models.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jungle Skillz
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego & Boulder Date Reviewed: April 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
singletrack with roots/ waterbars
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame weight, I-drive, precise geometry, ability to soak up almost any size bump and spit it out behind you. If you can still find a 99 frame BUY IT.
Weaknesses:
Might have been nice to use a coil over shock for progressive compression, but the Air Vanilla R is too plush to complain about.
Similar Products Used:
XCR-2000, XCR-3000, Jamis Dakar, Specialized FSR, Cannondale Super V
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z3 Flylight 100 forks, King headset, Thomson Elite post, Race Day saddle, Grip Shift shifters, Titec 118 bar, Syncros Riser stem, Truvativ cranks, XT front/XTR rear derailleurs, XTR cassette, Mavic rims on Hope front/ White Ind. rear, IRC Mythos tires
Bottom Line:
This bike is SUPER. I am rehab-ing a serious back injury and converting to full suspension lets me ride rough stuff again. I-Drive is superb -- if I could not hear the Fox shock actuating, I would not consciously know the suspension was at work half the time. It is butter smooth on chatter, and I can descend with impunity, instead of praying for a clean line like on my ultralight hardtail. I don't know what everyone is talking about on the weight issue - before my last upgrade, I had it weighed twice at 27.1 lbs. It has 4" travel front and rear. That is svelte, considering the performance. This bike is suitable for any trail condition short of hot lava!! Props to GT for the design.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich
a Cross Country Rider
from Virginia Date Reviewed: March 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great ground control. Looks Great.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Crapondale, Joshua's
Bike Setup:
Z-1 front, XT Components
Bottom Line:
Wow. What a ride. The Z-1 and the Fox Float R make it a plush but solid ride. Climbs as good as any hardtail and down hills ar a blast. Go with the ball burnished, people are always commenting on it. With a 800 price tag for the 1999s, you can not do better. The negative travel of the front and rear keep ground contact/control.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Date Reviewed: March 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Looks great, very plush, reasonably light
Weaknesses:
cable routing, fr. der. setup (it can be done though)
Similar Products Used:
Yeti, Cannodale, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Purchased the XCR1000 Frame only then added: XTR brakes, shifters, deraillers, race face crankset & riser bar, Kore Stem, King Headset, Thomson seat post, Flite saddle, CrossMax wheelset
Bottom Line:
I was a little nervous going to a full suspension bike but my back is killing me...esp. during 24 Hour races. This bike has made a huge difference, very plush and active but does not rob me of pedaling power. This bike weighs approx. 24.5# but and I do notice a slight weight increase over my hardtail, but climbing the rough stuff, ploughing through roots and rocks, and barreling down hills should reduce my overall lap times during races. An hey, I could lose a few pounds too!! My buddy just bought an FSR XC pro so we'll see who does better this season!!
I did encounter some difficulty setting this bike up...particularly the front derailler. Unless you leave plenty of cable/housing underneath the BB, the front Der. will move back and forth with the movement of the swingarm. However, as will any technologically advanced product, taking care in proper set up will give you much pleasesure for the future.
Anyone looking for a full suspension bike who likes to race XC and do long 24 hour races should look no further than the XCR1000....you will not be disappointed. An added bonus is the 99 XCR1000 frames are selling dirt cheap right now!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JD
a Downhiller
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: February 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
All of Grand County, CO
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Excellent climber. Very well-balanced. Rider compartment very long and stable. Performs well on a large variety of trails.
Weaknesses:
Weight--GT needs to shave about 3 lb. Interesting choice of parts--LX rear hub, bb, and brakes. For $2500? Saddle/post combo needs a trip to Jenny Craig. Eccentric bolts not tightened to correct ft/lb of torque.
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Sugar; Trek Y; Moots YBB
Bike Setup:
XTR brakes; Race Face BB; Thompson post;Stock otherwise
Bottom Line:
With a few weight-saving manuevers, this is the best XC FS bike on the planet. Climbs (and descends) better than my 23lb hardtail, and a lot more fun to ride. The bike is quite easy on the eyes, and practically begs to be ridden hard. Just point and go!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jdcamb
a Cross Country Rider
from Rochester, NY Date Reviewed: February 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
FLT/OCP/Alleghany State Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Solid feel. Well balanced front/rear FoxShox Float RC (lockout rules!) Wheelset XT components Michelin tires I-Drive Ball Burnished frame Thomson seatpost Rear triangle has no flex whatsoever Climbs awesome Time pedals Simply flys on the downhills and jumps Quiet compared to my last FS bike Easy to maintain except for the eccentric
Weaknesses:
SDG seat sucked LX brakes Flexxy RS fork with limited travel(80mm claimed, 60 actual which didn't match the rear. just had to change it to a long travel fork!) GT handle bars didn't have enough sweep for the width Eccentric is hard to maintain (sealed good though) GT grips felt like erasers
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR's, GT XCR-3000 Which I broke!, Gary Fisher Level Betty, GT LTS, etc.
Bike Setup:
XT components, Mavic X221 w/eyes straight laced, GT front hub, Avid 2.5's, Easton EA70 Monkey Bar, Thomson Elite seatpost, Flite ti saddle, Custom Englund Total Air fork w/ Judy Race 100 lowers, FoxShox Float RC rear shock, Michelin tires, Time Atac Alium HP pedals, 25lbs.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. It has taken me to the next level really! The frame is solid and perfectly balanced. No sticky bushings or rearend flex at all. Ball Burnished frame turns heads every ride. FoxShox Float RC rear shock is the best I have ever used, allot better then the Vanilla R that came with it. I like it better then the Cane Creek AD-10 my bud has on his Specialized FSR. Feels smoother and doesn't clunk or loose air. Works great in the cold and snow. Easy to tear apart too. Lockout lets me stand when I climb which I missed. The poor mans SID is better then the SID anyday. Needed a brake booster to firm it up. A little heavier but tons of smooth travel and takes 5 minutes to lube, rebuild and setup. Compared to the hour that the SID XC took. Plus no friggin oil! I don't know why people say I-drives are heavy. Apparently they have never rode a 31lbs GT-LTS. Mine is down to 25lbs really! This rig accelerates like a rocket too. I-Drive is the best FS system out there period. Get one. The 99 framesets are wicked cheap now. This bike rocks!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: February 9, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Typical excellent GT welds, construction quality. The ride is perfect for a XC suspension bike. It took a while to figure out what was so good about it and why it worked. After a ride on any other suspension bike, it will become obvious. Handling is quick and tight due to the single pivot and low center of gravity. Climbing seems more efficient without the bobbing. The bike rolls over obstacles very smoothly--especially noticable when climbing steeply. Rear wheel travel might be perfect. It never bottoms, but it still doesn't feel mushy when set up soft. It's hard to feel the suspension working on drop-offs even though it is working. It doesn't feel like the rear wheel travel transfers the energy to the pedals just like GT claims. After six unusually dry months of riding, the eccentric bearings retained most of the original grease while doing a good job of keeping the dirt out.
Weaknesses:
Cable routing. Gore cables are necessary to overcome the friction of the sharp routing of the rear cables. Rear shock was mounted to swingarm using a fully threaded bolt on aluminum bushings. The threads wore the bushings in a few rides and caused a rattling sensation. It's real hard to get a new set of those bushings. The Fox shock blew during a 24-hour race but was replaced in two days. The frame is a little heavy, but it can be lightened this year by replacing eccentric parts.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS Team
Bike Setup:
Custom build on frame: White Bros. SC90, Fox Vanilla R, King headset and disc hubs, ceramic Mavic 517's, Thomson post, Monkey bar, Paul brake, XTR everything else
Bottom Line:
This bike might be the best ride right now. It is hard to think of how to improve the ride. Also, the price is good for how much bike that you get.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PAUL RUDMAN
a Cross Country Rider
from ORANGE,CA USA Date Reviewed: January 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
TRABUCO
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
After being a loyal hardtail rider and 2 Eco-challenges under my belt. I was willing to give full suspension a try after hearing GT & Ned Overend squaking about the benefits of riding a full suspension bike. Boy, was I amazed on how they were right, every trail I am crushing faster than my past times.
Weaknesses:
None, maybe the LX brakes, but they work
Similar Products Used:
Scott carbon fiber hardtail
Bike Setup:
Stock everything, just got the Shimano 545's
Bottom Line:
If you are afraid of the couple extra pounds & are on the fence tettering on whether or not to buy a full suspension bike. Let me attest, this bike will immediately change your mind. THIS BIKE IS AWESOME!!!! The Ratt
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay Chavez
a Cross-Country Rider
from Danville Ca Date Reviewed: January 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Juaquin Miller
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The ride.The new frame and bike rides fine.
Weaknesses:
well i got my new frame the last one cracked.
Bike Setup:
see my last review in aug.
Bottom Line:
If you got the money buy it,and ride the hell out of it.On nite rides this bike kicks BUTT,DAY OR NITE.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LOUIS
a Weekend Warrior
from MIDDLETON , MA. Date Reviewed: December 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
BOXFORD STATE FOREST
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Excellent climbing full suspension.Very comfy on all kinds of conditions.Like GT says every trail faster. This bike helped me improve my technical riding.
Weaknesses:
GT should have put better brakes on this bike. Also shifting to the small chain ring has been a problem. The stock tires were real dogs.
Similar Products Used:
Trek y full syspension,(owned it for 1.5 years)Specialized FSR and Ellsworth Truth
Bike Setup:
I upgraded the stock seat to a berzerka ti dh, real comfy,changed the pedals to speedplay frogs,upgraded the rear shock to a stratos coil air oil,and changed the tires to IRC mythos.
Bottom Line:
I RESEARCHED FULL SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKES QUITE EXTENSIVELY OVER A 6 MONTH PERIOD. I TEST RODE MANY BIKES. I CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THE GT I DRIVE XCR 1000 HAD THE BEST SUSPENSION, FRAME ,AND DEALER SUPPORT OF ANY BIKE I RESEARCHED. ALL THE SHORT COMINGS THAT ARE PRESENT ON MY CURRENT BIKE ARE EASY TO UPGRADE WHEN THEY GET BROKEN.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terral
a Cross-Country Rider
from canoga park Date Reviewed: December 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Reseda
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Smooth #1 thing to be said for this bike. No loss of flow in climbing changing gears nothing...
Weaknesses:
Problem hitting smallest front sproket with i-drive engaged, need to shift rear derailluer to make front catch. Stock tires not happenin'
Bike Setup:
All stock including the pedals! Time atac is definetly the way to go.
Bottom Line:
Even though the price is higher for the part mix the bike as a whole is worth the money. The bike seems to thrive on uphills, but handles great in turns and downhill. With new tires.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from NJ Date Reviewed: November 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The Sonic Temple
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Unbelievably smooth pedal action, very efficient, very forgiving and a total blast to ride!
Weaknesses:
Absolutely none...well, maybe a coil-over for the rear instead of air...
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Super Vs...GT LTS, Pro-Flex, Schwinn Homegrown, Diamond Back DBR...
Bike Setup:
Took the frame/fork, swapped out everything else right down to the headset. Mavic 217 Ceramic rims, XTR hubs, Ti spokes, Wildgripper/Conti tires, XTR crankset, V-Brakes & front derailleur, SRAM 9.0 shift/rearderailleur, Monkey Lite riser bar, Azonic stem, Chris King HS, Avocet O2air saddle...
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks! When I previewed this bike last year, I knew GT had something special with the XCR. The bike pedals unbelievably smooth...no kickback, no loss of efficiency. You can hammer through rocks and roots like your spinning on the pavement. Rear wheel traction is great. Depending on your setup, the rear wheel will have about an inch or so of negative travel, so go ahead, take the worst line up a loose and rocky climb, you'll make it! I've ridden and tested many rigs, this be the best, the cream of the crop, my favorite to ride...go ahead, see for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Bergh
a Cross-Country Rider
from Fallbrook, CA Date Reviewed: November 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mammoth: Lower Rock Creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Excellent Geometry, very good climber for FS, Comfortable and easy to ride for long durations.
Weaknesses:
None: strong frame, reasonable weight (mine is custom built), great ride. 9 spd is unnecessary and has some difficulties dropping into small chain ring when i-drive is active.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn HomeGrown Factory Full Suspension; GT LTS; ProFlex 4000
Bike Setup:
Custom built: RockShox SID XC fork. Shimano XT component kit and hubs with XTR rear derailer. RaceFace XY seat post, 120x15degree stem. Titec Hellbent riser bars. WTB SST seat. Cane Creek head set. Mavic 517 rims w/revolution sst DB spokes/alloy nipples. Rolling on WTB Velociraptor Tires. Fox Air Vanilla Float rear shock. Weighs in at just over 26 lbs.
Bottom Line:
Built out the door for $3,000 with substantially better components than GT provides for more money. Light weight (at least competitive) and very easy to ride. Very efficient climber with little bob and a blast downhill. An outstanding cross country race bike. GT can only make this lighter and better.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Switzer
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: November 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Point Roberts, WA
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Love the SID's, xt/lx great, i-drive is boss!!! I got it spankin' new for $2500 Canadian (like nothin' in real u.s. money
Weaknesses:
none to be found ('corse it's been a week)
Similar Products Used:
kohna F/S, Trek F/S, Rockey Mountain F/S, I love my F/S's
Bike Setup:
stock everything but new pedles (helped alot)
Bottom Line:
Wow!!! I-Drive works!!! I just got it last week and I have'nt seen my house since (that would be cool)Must say comming from a Kohna Manomano F/S the xcr 1000 with sids, xt/lx, fox flot, and some rain gear (I live in the north west) This bike is a is like a beautiful dream about food. I couldn't belive the up hill climb. I've always wanted a bike that will take me down the north shore (some of it) but I can still take to 7-11 for a twinkee...This is it !!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
vince
a Weekend Warrior
from singapore Date Reviewed: October 29, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
looks i-drive
Weaknesses:
parts, not worth the money, suspension
Similar Products Used:
trek vrx500
Bike Setup:
loaned from a friend of mine
Bottom Line:
Look at the price tag and the specs... is it worth the money??? and for the price of $4400(in singapore currency) it's trash we are getting... compare it to the Trek VRX500 then you will know what I am talking about. The Trek is $50 CHEAPER COMES WITH HAYES HYDRALIC DISCS AND A XTR REAR DERAILLEUR AND IT CERTAINLY LIGHTER THAN THE GT!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Davo Ch
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: October 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountains - Andersons and The Oakes
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great looks, Exceptional ride, responsiveness, climbing ability and comfort. I can't really say if the i-drive is a technological break-through or just a gimmick (since this is the 1st FS bike I have owned, but I assure you that it climbs better than my hardtail and is without a doubt a major attraction to other bikers. The whole thing is LUSH
Weaknesses:
I bent the seat stem whilst riding over a small mound. The GT sales person said it was the 1st that he had ever seen bent(what else would he say), however, they replaced the frame and rear swingarm within the week. In Australia these bikes are expensive. My xcr1000 cost $6500.00 as standard. My upgrades have made it easily an $8000.00 bike. The price, therefore, is expensive for the components that you get. Although I read a spec sheet for the new year 2000 GT xcr-LE, and this has better components for the price - e.g. hydraulic brakes, full xtr components and therfore lighter weight. Its major weakness, however, is its inability to stay idle for long periods of time in a garage. It just beckons to be taken out constantly - and you will WANT to do that.
The bike out of the box is excellent, however, you just have to individualise this thing to really stand out of the crowd. I've added Marzzochi Z1 BAMS(110mm front shocks), Synchros stem, John Tomac Magura hydraulic brakes, Selle Italia seat (sweet), and 545 pedals.
Bottom Line:
Alot of money (at least in Australia it is), but I'd do it again. It has made me a better rider, particularly on downhills and through rough technical sections. I know that some (and myself as well) have commented on breakages on the bike, however, I realise myself that I ride harder and faster than I ever have on any hardtail. So if you play hard and like to ride fast, you will break things. Just as well GT give good service!! In summary - I love it - go get one and have fun.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Velvet Crusher
a Cross-Country Rider
from Calgary Date Reviewed: October 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Jumping Pound, Of Course
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Soaks up the rough stuff with elegance and panache. I don't have to stand on the single track. Great looking frame. Light. Come on boys and girls, you'd have been happy to have a hardtail this light when you started riding. PLUSH. not like those garbage truck Cannondales. I-Drive isolates chainline better than anything I have seen. Takes the BIG drops like a champion. Gorgeous welds in the brushed Al
Weaknesses:
Slacker head tube angle took me some getting used to. Made those tight switchbacks tricky. More fiddling than my old H/T, but that's to be expected. Pesky clunk I can't get rid of. AND: Despite being the easiest bike to dial in: just line up the dot I can't get the frikkin dot to line up!
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra, Trek ybike, Cdale raven and SVx000. the GT XCR-1000 is non pareil
Bike Setup:
Mavic x517 rims, White Industries hubs, the atom bomber, syncros stem, seat post, drive train (Canada Rules) and the Fabulous FIZIK Cow Seat.
Bottom Line:
There is no suspension bike better than this for a guy who wants performance the Cross country discipline but still wants to kick his pals' asses on the descents. Hey it's a little heavier than a htail, but you could stand to lose a few pounds too chum. Super active suspension, inconsequential pedal induced feedback (read none) make this the sled of the gods.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ogden Date Reviewed: September 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Northern Skyline, Maples Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
It climbs awesome, has a cush ride, and is the best looking bike. Has substantially improved my downhilling abilities.
Weaknesses:
Creaks!! Can't get rid of creaky sounds on the bike. Need to get the cups on the head tube greased!!
Similar Products Used:
My bike before this was a low-mid level hardtail. The difference was night and day.
Bike Setup:
I bought the bike used with 14 miles on it. Got it for $1925 (bike shop buddy deal) with full XT componentry.
Bottom Line:
The bike is awesome!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremiah Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from Delta Co. Date Reviewed: September 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
bobcat
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
The I drive thing is for real. It is nice that someone has finally biult a bike that has suspension while standing without petal kick back. The bike will climb anything shot of a tree if you have the power to get the slightly hefty bike up (but weight biulds caracter). Seems that the 1000 model is a bit lean on quality components for its price. The 4000 has a good set for the price. As for frame problems, everyone always seems to bash new frames. In '95 when I bought a trek 9900 all I heard was that the frames were busting left and right. 8k miles later, its still in one piece. Where it right that GT would send out bikes that are properly lubed and tightened, it's more of the BIKESHOP'S job to make sure it is. I think that the rear shock should be removed and crushed in a vice. A better quality shock should be used. Hopefully enough bike shops will gripe to GT and we'll see that in next year's models. The bike in short is real enjoyable.
Weaknesses:
price verses the components. rear shock should be crushed in a vice and replaced. Little too friendly with the gravity.
Super cool design, it should be very successful for GT.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross-Country Rider
from St. Paul, MN Date Reviewed: August 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Battle Creek
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The ride is great, plain and simple!
Weaknesses:
I'll explain later.
Similar Products Used:
GT RTS-1 (rode hard for 6 years)
Bike Setup:
Bought frame only. XT, Mavic 517, misc GT parts, Judy XC (not well matched with rear, was good on RTS though!)
Bottom Line:
I have had nothing but complications since I bought this frame. It is an incredible ride, when it is not in the shop. The first week I had one off-road ride and 4 commutes to work. That's 5 rides. It was in the shop 6 times. The last time was because the rear shock was screwed. It didn't blow out, it kind of imploded! GT wouldn't over-night a shock before the weekend so I was stuck without a bike. Thank God for my local shop. The store manager (thanks Brady!) of Erik's went home and took the shock off his XCR-1000 and put it on mine so I had a bike for the week. The shock came in on Friday, a week later. Thanks GT! The first time it was in the shop was because I was riding along on one of my commutes to work. In the course of 5 miles the whole eccentric (the guts of the main pivot) was loose and practically falling out. I had no clue what was up. I ended up walking the last 1.5 miles to work. It turns out that whoever sent my frame did not put the 3 lockring bolts into the eccentric lockring so the whole works came loose! For the warranty I had to get the serial number. Well GT put the front derailleur cable guide right over the number. I had to remove the bolt to take the guide off to see the number. Well the cheap plastic guide was broke upon removing the bolt. What is the deal with the cable routing? You have to have a lot of slack so that when the rear shock compresses your front derailleur doesn't move. Why did GT route it that way? The routing of the cable for the rear derailleur is screwed too. The cable goes from the right side of the handle bar to the cable stops on the left side to the cable stops (underneath the seat stay, darn it!) on the right side. Couldn't they have kept it all on the right? When I pedal it ticks. Not sure where that is coming from. Could be the cable housing rubbing against the stops when the shock compresses slightly while pedalling. It is a great ride but GT needs to make some changes, especially in the quality department. The Fox shock lasted all of 5 days and I keep hearing of other people having problems with it. Maybe GT should dump this shock for future production!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAY CHAVEZ
a Cross-Country Rider
from DANVILLE,CA Date Reviewed: August 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
NOT NOW
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
CLIMBS NICE,AND THIS BIKE WILL SAVE YOU COMING DOWN THE HILL OR MT TOP.
Weaknesses:
WELL LET'S SEE THE DOG BONE BROKE ONCE, THE REAR SHOCK HAS BEEN RE-DONE AND NOW I CRACKED THE FRAME. I CRACKED THE SEAT TUBE AN INCH FROM THE TOP, AS YOU KNOW THE SEAT TUBE IS CUT OUT IN BACK OF THE TUBE.I TALKED TO MY BIKE SHOP,AND THEY KNOW OF THREE OTHER PEOPLE WHO HAVE DONE THE SAME THING IN THE SAME SPOT. ONE PERSON HAD THIS HAPPEN TWICE.
Similar Products Used:
THIS IS MY 0THER BIKE. MY WIFE HAS A 99 CAD F4000. THE DISC BRAKES SUCK THEY CHANGED THEM ONCE.NOW THE REP IN COMING.
Bike Setup:
CROME FRAME TO START THEN I WENT WTIH THE 99 MARZOCCHI Z1 BAMS XTR REAR BRAKE AND ROCK SHOX'S DISC BRAKE UP FRONT,XTR CRANKS AND BB. KORE ELITE STEM AND SEAT POST,517 RIM'S XTR REAR HUB WTB GREASE GUARD HEAD SET XTR DERAILLEUR'S AND OURY GRIPS.
Bottom Line:
DON'T GET ME WRONG I LOVE THIS BIKE. MY NEW FRAME IS IN AND I SHOULD HAVE MY BIKE BACK BY THE WEEKEND. OH WELL BACK ON THE HARDTAIL. BUT I LOVE MY HARDTAIL TOO.SOOOO PLEASE CHECK YOUR FRAME
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesus
a Cross-Country Rider
from Methuen, MA Date Reviewed: July 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
SSHHHHH
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Suspension works! Eye catcher
Weaknesses:
Weight and LX brakes
Similar Products Used:
Sorry only test rode other F/S bikes, My previous bike was a hard tail front suspension
Bike Setup:
Stock configuration
Bottom Line:
I've had the XCR1000 for about 3 weeks now and put on about 175 miles. It rides really smooth, much more comfy than a hard tail. Great bike to go bashing around on, climbs great, handles real well not excellent though, lower riser bars or flat bar should help with that(put more weight on the front tire) defintely a good bike to ride all day, It took a couple of ride to get used to FS but once acclamated, I started to let the suspension do its job and soak up the rough stuff, I don't have to worry about picking the best lines I can just pedal though or let brakes go and sail over just about any obstacle, in other word the suspension works great. Now for the bad. I wouldn't race until you knock off about 2-3LBS it weighs in at around 27LBS. LX brakes should not be used on a higher end bike. This one is my fault but I blew out the rebound on the rear shock coming off several 4ft. drops , the shop gave me another shock the same day I told them about it, and there is noise coming from the dog bone(problably due to the drops), If I had to I would by this bike again with no regrets what so ever. I give 5 chilis because the way the bike works totaly negated the short coming I had with my bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Racer
from Cupertino, Ca Date Reviewed: July 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Any Dirt!!!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The XCR 1000 powers the climbs and glides over the bumps. I love the bike on tight single-track and long fire road climbs, I used to suck on the downhills and shine on the climbs and now I can excel at both. Can the bike climb? Ask the guy who was on the Trek OCLV hardtail, I believe he may have something to tell you... The angles help the bike carve the tight switchback corners and the excellent dual suspension design helps the bike float over the obsticles.
Weaknesses:
Slight wheel spin on very steep standing climbs.
Similar Products Used:
Trek SL Y Bike, GT LTS, Schwinn Sweet Spot S96.10 and a Bontrager Race-lite.
Bike Setup:
XCR 1000 Frame, Rock Shox SID (and Marz. Z1 Bam), XTR Derailleurs and brakes, S-works cranks, King Headset, Tioga and IRC tires. I used the 155mm Perfect preload benchmark and upped the air pressure slilghtly. I also cranked up the rebound on the Fox air shock to give me the desired ride. I ride a large frame built at 26lbs.
Bottom Line:
If you are serious about your riding and spend the energy to correctly tune your bike, you are going to love this the ride. A serious threat to all the hardtail holdouts. Save your money, buy your frame, build your bike....Now go ride !!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross-Country Rider
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: July 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The one I'm on
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Perfectly balanced ride! NO FS climbs better. That I-Drive really works!
Weaknesses:
Price, Creaky Cranks a lil under speced for $2300.00
Similar Products Used:
Joshua f1, DBR ZX-6, some others...
Bike Setup:
19.8 lb Zaskar LE , SID
Bottom Line:
This is the most stable FS I have ever riden I have never been more comfortable and confident on a FS . It climbs way better than I thought it could. Just point it down hill and all I can do is smile and hang on do need to ride the brakes here. Very stable in the air , perfect riding positon it just feels like you always know where the bike is going, Overall the is this funnest bike I have ever riden!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ogden, Utah Date Reviewed: June 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Skyline
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Goes up as well as it goes down, SID is awesome, cool grips
Weaknesses:
This bike isn't spec'd that great for $2500.00
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS-1000
Bike Setup:
SID, speedplays, XTR
Bottom Line:
If you are lookin for a full suspension bike that climbs very well this is the one. Price tag is high but it is well worth it, just ask you shop to upgrade a few things here and there. Positively the coolest dualie I have ever owned.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis Leiker
a Racer
from Murrieta Ca Date Reviewed: June 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
El Morro Canyon Lag bch
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Climbs like a goat backing into a cactus. I drive is awsome, Sid forks are top notch
Weaknesses:
Should be more XT/XTR components, less LX for $2500 bones.
Similar Products Used:
Kona King piecapoo (kikipu) Diamond Back X-6
Bike Setup:
Dialed in the Sid front anf Fox Vanilla...Bike is awsome
Bottom Line:
I have never felt a bike with such a comfortable riding position. I have a ton of confidence in the machine on the down hills. The brakes are great, straight pull spokes on the rims give the bike a ridgid feel. The bike will not wheelie on steep climbs or switch backs, The handling is spot on. I am totally impressed. The I drive works very well, that bike climbs like a hard tail. I was never a GT fan before. I really thought the I drive was a gimmick, but I couldn't be happier. This bike is worth every damn penny I spent. Now if I can just beat my riding partner on his Diamondback X-6!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Honolulu Date Reviewed: May 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere on Oahu
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
It's balance and XC/DH ride that it gives. a great parts groupo, a out of the box racer
Weaknesses:
Haven't found one yet.
Similar Products Used:
GT STS 1000, Conejo A/P5, GT RTS1
Bike Setup:
My bike is plane stock. XT/LX drivetrain with some GT signiture parts, Mavic rims.
Bottom Line:
I took it to a trail here in Oahu Hi. with everything from long climbs, to fast downhills. With rocks, roots, loose dirt/gravel, and technical single track to fast jeep roads. I got to give it to GT this is a winner. the ride is so good that I didn't even know I was useing a bigger gear for the climbs. It smooth out everything on the trail and it went everywhere I pointed it to. The ground clearence is really good and the ride possision is right on. I left it stock because of the ride it gave me, I did't want to mess up the way it performed. At about 26-28lbs, you don't feel the weight of the bike. It feels very light and really solid. I would recomend this bike to anyone who wants a XC/DH bike. For the price of the bike, I would say it is a very good deal. I would give it more but this only gives up to 5 stars. AWESOME Bike!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne Kerridge
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hadleigh, Suffolk Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Superb ride and handling, feels light and fast, excellent climber
Weaknesses:
None that I can find
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS1000 DS (98) owned for 8 months, lots of miles covered.
Bike Setup:
I sourced the frameset from GT, and built it myself. All components are XTR, Spin wheelset V23 ceramic. Mazzochi Z1 Bam front end Stratos Helix Pro rear. Fox Vanilla Float R failed after 2 weeks, so replaced with Stratos, far superior.
Bottom Line:
The I drive is fantastic, no feedback what so ever through the peddles, I ride on average 30 miles a day over road and cross country, covered 2400 miles on this setup without a problem, what more can you say!!. Changed rear shock for Stratos Helix Pro, as found Fox loses air, seal failed after just 2 weeks!!. Can adjust stratos to give exact ride requirements. Build quality is superb full marks to GT's design department.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Lalande
a Racer
from Hull, Canada Date Reviewed: April 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Camp Fortune, Gatineau Parc, Canada
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The consistence of the ride. You dont loose no energy going over obstacles. Excellent for XC.
Weaknesses:
Still looking for one!!
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS-1
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z2 Bam Spox rear wheel
Bottom Line:
Most likely the best XC bike I've tried. So consistent and it rules going uphill. Get yours today before they go out of stock!! The most innovative product the sport has seen yet...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Morgan
a Cross-Country Rider
from Pleasant Hill, CA Date Reviewed: April 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
I'm not telling
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The i-Drive concept works very well. This bike handles better than my Heckler and provides a much more plush ride. Maintenance is easy, don't be afraid of the BB pivot, its is EASIER than a headset to work on.
Weaknesses:
First and foremost, I was EXTREMELY disappointed with GT when I first bought the frameset b/c the main pivot(needle bearings) was dry. I'm glad I checked before I rode it. Easy fix, yes, but not what I expect from GT and a frame this costly. I also blew out the Fox shock in the first two months but I'm switching to a Risse J-5, I don't trust air shocks, anyway. It also is a dirt magnet in the worst area to clean. I recomment covering the grease port on the eccentric with electrical tape, too.
Similar Products Used:
SC Heckler, GT RTS-1
Bike Setup:
Marz. Z1,Magura R/L's.
Bottom Line:
Good frame but GT has been a little lax on attention to detail.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Warner
a Cross-Country Rider
from Mishawaka,IN Date Reviewed: March 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Moab,Utah
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Awesome bike. I like where the pivot point is, in the bb shell. It makes it so that the distance between the seat and the pedals NEVER changes. It makes for a smooth, consistent ride and thats what makes it an excellent XC bike
Weaknesses:
Just a tiny bit weighty for XC, but not bad.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Joshua F1, GT STS, Klein Mantra Pro.
Bottom Line:
This is a really great bike. This is the only bike that I have ever really liked for cross-country. It is such an enjoyable ride that I would recommend it to anyone. Anyone, that is that can afford the near $3000 price tag.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
San Pedro Joe
a cross-country rider
from San Pedro, CA Date Reviewed: March 9, 1999
Bottom Line:
Tony at The Bike Palace in San Pedro was good enough to invite me to test-ride the XCR-1000 for a few hours, and I must admit, the experience was better than I had imagined. Namely, the climing abilities of this FS was what I was curious about since I ride for the workout value, as well as for the fun-factor. At about 29lbs, this bike felt lighter in the saddle. I was a little disappointed with the SID fork(perhaps the bushings are worn) and the rather eclectic mix of components for a $2500 bike. A very comfortable and controlled ride over stutter-bumps and down fire roads with the occassional ghost-shift. It's this ride or the Specialized FSR line that's going to get the nod. Weight, content, fit, function, and the bottom line will tell. Decisions, decisions...
Take it from some one who owned everything, a Merlin, GT STS, Intense Uzzi SL(very disapointing that Uzzi)The I-DRIVE awesome,I feel like I have the power that I felt when I rode a HARD TAIL but it is plush,it carves,it climbs,it doen't ghost shift like ALL other full sus. bikes,also its quiet, what more can you ask for! I have one small problem w/ it (that I won't mention)GT says they will help me w/ that.It should not happen on post Febuary models. Also the dot to dot line up,well I never got them to line up,I weigh 195 and have 275lbs. in the shock and it works just fine,if I put more pressure in the shock the dots may line up but I think it would be to ride to hard,so I say the dot to dot is a mesurement for the 160lbs guys. The bike I built has full XTR 9 speed w/ Crossmax wheels,Gripshift, and a Easton riser bar,it weights in @ about 25lbs and you can't beat that for a dual sus. bike that really works and is not delicate. (this bike should have been in that 25 lbs-ish bike test in MB action!)As long as this bike stays together as GT promises it's #1 in my book! The I drive works!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a cross-country rider
from Grand Rapids, Michigan Date Reviewed: February 10, 1999
Bottom Line:
Completely impressed. This is a very adjustable ride. Set it up correct, and you've got one smooth, light, and dangerously fast bike on your hands. I was slightly dissappionted GT didn't use a few more high end components, so for a few extra bucks I dropped some wieght and added performance. And to whoever thinks up this I-drive stuff at GT..... great job, keep up the good work.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAY CHAVEZ
a cross-country rider
from DANVILLE CA Date Reviewed: February 6, 1999
Bottom Line:
WELL I CHANGED THE BIKE A BIT. I WENT WITH THE CROME FRAME, AND THE 99 MARZOCCHI Z1 BAMS YES OH YES. XT REAR V-BRAKE ROCK SHOX FRONT DISC BRAKE, XTR BB AND CRANKS. KORE ELITE STEM AND POST, 517 RIMS XTR HUB IN BACK. OURY GRIPS, GREASE GUARD HEAD SET.XT FRONT DERAILLEUR XTR REAR DERAILLER.AND LAST 747S
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a weekend warrior
from Tennesse Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
I was overall somewhat impressed with this bike. Like Jeremy, I feel that the front crank moves away from the derailuer, but I didn't see this happen on the XCR 2000. Also, I don't think that GT made a wise choice by putting SID's on this bike, it would have made a huge difference for the better had they put somehting like a Marzocchi Z2 BAM, a shock with a little more travel. I thought that GT made the XCR 2000 a much better bike than the 1000, and I saw so much upgrade in the 2000, it influenced me to buy it instead of the 1000. I was impressed but very dissapointed.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeremy
a cross-country rider
from pennsylvania Date Reviewed: November 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
great setup sketchy front shifting the crank moves away from the front derailleur when under compression. everything else is the perfect setup so don't shy away this i drive thing works great.
Overall Rating:
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