Submitted by
Tyler Pace
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: February 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Green Valley/Stucka Springs Loop
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Smooth as butter, awesome climber, rides better than a hard-tail on pavement.
Weaknesses:
The fact that GT was purchased by Pacific Bikes doesn't help the value on these bikes.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro Pro, Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
Full XTR, Manitou Black, Spinergy Spox wheels, Cane Creek.
Bottom Line:
This is an excellent value if you're picking one up used...thanks to the low re-sale value, they're super-cheap and well worth it. I just sold my I-Drive last week and I already miss it; it climbed amazingly well and fast, and took jumps like a charm.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AGENTGRAPE
a Weekend Warrior
from RHODE ISLAND Date Reviewed: October 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
ARCADIA
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
IDRIVE SYSTEM MARZOCCHI FORK COMPONENTS EXCEPR STX DER. NICE GEOMETRY ON FRAME
Weaknesses:
STX FRONT DERAUILLER
Similar Products Used:
FIRST SUSPENSION BIKE GT PANTERA
Bike Setup:
ALL XTR COMPONENTS, TRUVATIV CRANKS,BLACKSPIRE BASHGUARD, Z1 FREEDIDE FORK, SUN WHEELS &FRONT AVID DISC.
Bottom Line:
THIS IS THE BEST FITTING BIKE IVE EVER HAD I HAVE SLOWLY BUILT IT TO A LITE DUTY FREERIDE BIKE. I HAVE 3 OTHER BIKES NOW AND THIS IS THE ONE THAT I USE MOST I HAVE BEATEN THE HELL OUT OF IT GOOD CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS THE I DRIVE CREAKS SOME BUT IF YOUR RIDING HARD WHAT DO YOU EXPECT IF THIS BEAST EVER DIES IT WILL GET A TRUE VIKING FUNERAL
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Santee Date Reviewed: May 6, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mission Trail's, Andersons
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Stupid Go
Strengths:
Great frame, strong and true. 'Zokes rule!
Weaknesses:
Front derailler. (STX) weak 211 wheelset for a 220lb clydsdale like me.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Icon bars, odi lock-ons, Race Face cranks (the best), Mavic 514's.
Bottom Line:
Have rode the crap out of this bike for over three years, and the only thing I had to replace was the wheel set. The stock Mavic 211's can't stand up to the abuse I dish out. Upgraded the LX cranks to Race Face Turbines. What a stiff set! A lot of people have complained that the shock mount and frame weld near the shock were weak but take it from me... I've put this bike thru a hell of a lot. Launch ramp hucks, huge boulder drops, ton's of tear jerkin' down hill bombing runs, not to mention a fair share of crashes and not a frame crack in sight. Too bad GT sold out to Pacific Bikes... Long live the '99 GT XCR 2000!!! Peace.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ghemi
a Weekend Warrior
from Connecticut Date Reviewed: October 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Snow
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
its pretty light for what it is, theres not much bobbing, the marzocchi with mine is sweet, the i drive is pretty low maitenance
Weaknesses:
seals on the fox float air suck nut sack, rims are always outta true, v brakes suck, well if this is aboot the frame then its pretty decent besides its a little weird lookin
v brakes (suck), xt rear, lx deore front, marzocchi z.1 100 mm,
Bottom Line:
this bike is pretty good for some xc and some freeride stuff but its not built up enough for what i started to do, i completely destroyed the fox R in back and tacoed a rim or 2 the only things that survived weret the frame and the fork, i started doing things to big for it so i got a used yeti 6 in travel and it rules, i gave the gt to my little bro 4 flamin chilis cause this is the bike that got me into mtbing
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gerard lieshout
a Weekend Warrior
from hoorn Date Reviewed: October 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
schoorl
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
oops, hard to tell. it rides very swell when it doesn't break.
Weaknesses:
this is going to be my second frame i broke. and i'm not happy about it. there are cracks all over the frame: near the upper shock mount, near the lower shock mount and on top of the big eccentric. that's where all the noise is coming from!!!! i'm going to return it to my lbs. and see what they tell me. my first new frame took the importer brasseur in belgium half a year to be ridden again. i wonder how long this is going to take!!!
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr, klein, cannondale
Bike Setup:
not that important anymore
Bottom Line:
i'm not happy with this bike, with GT. i really truly don't want a new frame. it will break very soon again. i'm really interested in the new specialized enduro frame but i just want the frame and not a complete bike. you will hear from me again, very soon. if i were you don't buy a GT. be sensible, it has just been taken over by a new company. just imagine how they will help customers with a broken frame. i know it takes a long, long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colleen
a Cross Country Rider
from Park City, UT Date Reviewed: September 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Freund Canyon
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
This is the first bike I have owned. I like the feel of the bike, when it is not creeking due to cracks.
Weaknesses:
Well, where do I start? I bought this bike 2 years ago and am now on my THIRD cracked frame. I havn't replaced it yet, as you know GT went bankrupt. I wonder why? It has cracked in the same spot, on the seat mast, two cracks on each side. Everyone has told me this is very unusual, but I think it is just a matter of time before A LOT more crack. The design is flawed. Poor Huffy doesn't know what they got into. PS- GT replaced my first xcr 2000 frame with a 2000 1.0 (twice) and they cracked too.
Bottom Line:
Do not buy a GT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kris Galus
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, Western Australia Date Reviewed: August 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
GoatFarm
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
BikeForce, Malaga
Strengths:
i-Drive, Marzocchi shoks, FOX rear air suspension, wide grip handlebar, alloy frame.
Weaknesses:
gears
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. Although it's described as a XC bike, i used it to go downhill and the bike handeled like a train on rails. The suspension took all the hammering i could givi it (even attacking 4-5ft jumps and I weigh 100Kg). The only thing that has failed on me was the chain on this bike. It wraps arround on the front cogs when it's been through some mud. But that's a small issue which may be linked with my bike only. (I bought it second hand). For the price I paid, the quality is uncomparrable and the ride is smooth. If you can get your hands on this bike, do it. You won't be dissapointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a Weekend Warrior
from Yorba Linda, CA Date Reviewed: July 26, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Jax Fullerton
Strengths:
Very secure ride and plush, whether cranking uphill or careening downhill. Strong LX brakes. Tracks well on tricky downhill descents. Fun, Fun, Fun.
Weaknesses:
Durability. The I-Drive develops a clunking sound at each bump or impact and is only fixed by regularly changing out the BB. Haven't figured this out yet, but the eccentric cups are suspect (loose?) Looking for a manual how to take this thing apart for myself. The 9 speed regularly wears out. I'm on my second cassete, second chain and have replaced the small chainring. The cables need regular replacement because the cable is bare at the location dirt and water are most likely to enter. I've blown the seals on the Z-3. Marzocchi lost the shock and upgraded to a Z-1, which has harsh dampening. Sending it back to them to drill.
Similar Products Used:
None. I've ridden the Y-bike and test driven the FSR
Bike Setup:
standard. Bought a Terry Liberator to save the cojones. I raised the bars with upright goose neck and risers to straighten my spine a bit.
Bottom Line:
This a plush Ferarri, but like all exotic machinery they require regular maintenance - and expense. The I-Drive is the blessing and the problem. The bike's heavy, but I'm not a racer. As a strong 49 yr old rider, I beat the hell out of this bike and love it. If you find a maintenance free FS bike that rides this well, let me know. I rode the Specialized FSR at the shop before buying the GT and found the FSR way too harsh a ride. No regrets.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy Steiman
a Cross Country Rider
from Zionsville, Indiana, USA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Town Run
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Outfiters
Strengths:
Gt I-Drive, Marzocchi fork, fox shock, frame design, great quality, and not to bad price
Weaknesses:
Weight, front der., 20mm fork is hard to find a replacement hub to fit it, fork sags and rear shock leaks when brocken in
all stock but for new pedals and rockshox seatpost
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great bike no matter what king of rider you are. It is built to last and is a blast to ride. It is a great trail bike ang not to high mainteince. If you don't have one yet go get one or another GT with their inovatitve I-Drive and other technological achivements in the art of mountain bikeing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dennis
a Weekend Warrior
from walnut creek california Date Reviewed: July 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
my secret laboratory
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
hank and frank bikes
Strengths:
plush, z.3 qr20, i-drive design, strong tubing
Weaknesses:
weak welds and shock mounts, stx front der., lx brakes, GT customer service (2 months to get new frame on warranty)
Similar Products Used:
none, if you dont count a 94 trek antelope 800
Bike Setup:
xtr cranks, new rims, nokian 2.6, magura rimmies, xt shifters, risse jupiter5 to boost travel to 6" and soon a new frame.
Bottom Line:
Okay... the bike is conceptually good, great even, however the welds are not up to taking the abuse that the rest of the bike is. also, GT couldn't figure out what to do with the shock mount, and just slapped that lacy-looking thing on there. I just recently snapped my shock mount, and i'm hoping that i'll get something much stronger. also, the i-drive thingie siezed less than a week after it was lubed. The frame is great, and it went through hell and high water (literally) for two years. now i have to wait 2 whole stinkin' months before my frame comes. Ill keep you updated once it's built. 4 flaming rats for great value 3 for customer service and broken frame
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benjamin Dearlove
a Weekend Warrior
from London, UK Date Reviewed: April 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
bonethrone
Strengths:
fast, smooth, easy ride
Weaknesses:
duribility, maintainance, GT support, gaurantee, fox air shock, QR20 hub.
Similar Products Used:
FSR enduro, Marin,
Bike Setup:
stock plus coil fox rear shock, DMR platforms
Bottom Line:
Although my XCR2000 rode really well for the first 2 months I can not put everyone off one of these bikes enough. Everything seemed to fall apart in the wet mudy conditions. It might be made for dry californian conditions but these should definatly not be exported to the UK or New Zealand. While the i-drive works OK it is more trouble than it's worth, I had to service mine every ride to keep it tight. (if the i-drive is loose so is your BB!!!) The fox air shock was nice and light but the GT frame was not rigid enough to hold it straight - once the shock shaft is scored it needs replacing fro a further £200- and GT would cover anything. Worse still GT UK have gone bankrupt and not there is no hope of getting any parts in the UK!!!!!!!!!!! (should be rated at lower than 1!!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Pede
a Weekend Warrior
from Summerland, BC Canada Date Reviewed: April 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Almost Holey Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Used from friend
Strengths:
Good value, all around good bike. Can be used for almost anything.
Weaknesses:
Frame flex, no rear disc mounts, high seat tube.
Similar Products Used:
RM6, Giant ATX 1100
Bike Setup:
The bike came with the XCR 3000 Components on the XCR 2000 frame. Fork is a Judy 100, ODSI lock on grips, STX RC shifters, Avid brake levers, single didgit Avid brakes, WTB SST seat, SR suntour cranks, STX RC front Derr. LX rear derr., Sun Rhyno lite rear, Mavic 221 front, WTB Enduroraptor 2.1" tires, Deore rear hub, GT issue front hub, stainless steel spokes and IRC tubes.
Bottom Line:
It is a good bike for trialriding and mild freeriding. Could use some disc tabs on the rear, but overall a good bike. Please remember, I did buy this bike used. I plan to upgrade to a 2001 Marin Wildcat Trail DH rig. This is a good bike for the price, so I highly recomend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gerard lieshout
a Weekend Warrior
from hoorn, the netherlands Date Reviewed: April 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
schoorl
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
piet de wit, wormer
Strengths:
i can ride it again and it still rides very good
Weaknesses:
little bit heavy but i am too
Similar Products Used:
specialized rockhopper aim, fsr.
Bike Setup:
maguara rim brakes, nothing really special,
Bottom Line:
i've got my bike back, finally. and i can put disk brakes on her when i need them because my front part of the frame is from 1999 but the back part is a 2001 one. the bike rides like hell again, i've been waiting for almost half a year to get a new frame but now fortunately everything has been solved, yippy. so cut the crap and ride till it breaks again?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gerard lieshout
a Weekend Warrior
from hoorn, the netherlands Date Reviewed: March 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
schoorl
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Piet de Wit, Wormer
Strengths:
tell me i've not been riding this bike for half a year now
Weaknesses:
how the belgian importeur, Brasseur in Liege, treats his GT customers, i've haven't got a new frame yet, everything that could have gone wrong has gone wrong. and they still say that this frame failure is not a guarantee case. i've have had enough of this importer and unfortunately, i can not get in touch with GT in the usa. it's a shame
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr, great bike my bikeshop gave me one to ride on and i love the ride, lighter and faster than the GT but also with less travel in the back
Bike Setup:
of no importance
Bottom Line:
when you have read the things i've written above you know the bottomline; there's nothing wrong with the bike but this belgian importer should be sent of to fight a war on mars. i've been waiting for a new frame for almost half a year now and i'm still waiting. i'm thinking of buying the borrowed specialized and selling the GT bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gerard lieshout
a Weekend Warrior
from hoorn, the netherlands Date Reviewed: March 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
schoorl
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Piet de Wit, Wormer
Strengths:
tell me i've not been riding this bike for half a year now
Weaknesses:
how the belgian importeur, Brasseur in Liege, treats his GT customers, i've haven't got a new frame yet, everything that could have gone wrong has gone wrong. and they still say that this frame failure is not a guarantee case. i've have had enough of this importer and unfortunately, i can not get in touch with GT in the usa. it's a shame
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr, great bike my bikeshop gave me one to ride on and i love the ride, lighter and faster than the GT but also with less travel in the back
Bike Setup:
of no importance
Bottom Line:
when you have read the things i've written above you know the bottomline; there's nothing wrong with the bike but this belgian importer should be sent of to fight a war on mars. i've been waiting for a new frame for almost half a year now and i'm still waiting. i'm thinking of buying the borrowed specialized and selling the GT bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Warren
a Cross Country Rider
from Honolulu, HI, US Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Waikoloa Valley
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
MTBR MarketPlace
Strengths:
Plush, strong, Tight
Weaknesses:
little heavy, green color
Similar Products Used:
C'DALE M400 Full XTR, Pro Flex 856
Bike Setup:
XTR crank, shifters, levers; XT brakes, derailers; KORE Elite stem and thermoplastic straight bars; blue velocity deep-v wheelset (BOMBPROOF!); specialized body comp seat; thomson setapost,
Bottom Line:
Great bike....strong & tough enough to charge the downhill ,light enough for killer xc ---marzocchi z3 and fox vanilla air foat R are workhorses, the stock components are kind of weak.... but the frame & shocks are a great design especially the i-drive..and little by little I upgraded the lx parts until now I have a sweet dream-ride...couldn't be happier with my bike and with the wheelset I built myself (first ones) it is REAL sweet.....Velocity rims Rock!!! (they make the deep-V for cane creek which cost over $450) And to beat all I got this bike dirt cheap of mtbr marketplace for $750 from a crackhead!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benn Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from Chester, Cheshire, United Kingdom Date Reviewed: January 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Coedy Brenin Forest (karrimor trail)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Halfords Chester
Strengths:
I-drive, spec for cost.
Weaknesses:
lack of disc mounts
Similar Products Used:
Trek vrx, cannondale SV700, Marin East Peak.
Bike Setup:
Standard apart from Time atac pedals, handlebars and michelin wildgrippers.
Bottom Line:
This bike is superb if a little heavy, it climbs well and descends like a demon!!! seriously a great all round package i-drive really does work just stay seated and you will climb just about anything. But the real treat comes when you hit that great bit of downhill singletrack, the marzocchi forks and fox rear shock are a fantastic package, the best I have ever ridden (So far, though quite like the look of the new trek fuel models).
After a couple of minor changes, tyres and pedals this bike has turned out to be the best buy ever. so much so in fact that I am on my third bike after having two others stolen!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Old Man Vic
a Weekend Warrior
from Atascocita, Tx Date Reviewed: January 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The one I rode today
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$925.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Etc. - Humble
Strengths:
I-Drive, Marzocchi Fork, Fox Shock and the fact that I bought it so cheap
Weaknesses:
Front Derailer (stx-rc)
Similar Products Used:
1st full suspension, old bike 1991 Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
Fully stock (see 1999 GT catalog)
Bottom Line:
The bike is awesome. Some say it is a little heavy close to 30 pounds but after riding a real trail this afternoon I can honestly say that the weight did nothing to hurt the ride. It was climbing everything the two hardtails were climbing, only time I needed to unclip was to stop before I ran into the back of one of the other guys riding with me it was my first time on the trail and they were guiding me. My only complaint is the fact that GT put a stx-rc front derailer on this bike. Before today my only experience with the bike included what I would call urban assault. Constant chain rub in certain gears. I adjusted the thing to eliminate the rubbing but stupidly did not make sure the thing still worked thru all the gears. Well we came to a section that needed a low gear and I had no small chain ring because the stupid adjustment I guess was an over adjustment. No rubbing in the higher gears but that means nothing if you cannot use the lower gears. Why would GT spec a bike with a nine speed cog with a 7/8 speed derailer? This bike is probally not going to win any cross country bike of the year but with the 4"f.and 4.6"r travel it is not designed for the extreme xc rider. This bike is a bike for every condition. Can be riden xc but can also jump off +5' cliffs and ride on. Would not call it a perfect freerider because of no disc mounts in the back. I classify this as an awesome cross trainer. Bottom line - thing is fast. Oh by the way the only time I felt the bobbing action was standing up hammering across the bike shop parking lot. None of that on the trail! 5 for value because I got a super closeout deal. 4 for overall because they put a part on the bike that should have been something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Travis
a Weekend Warrior
from Marin, CA Date Reviewed: December 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Downieville
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
Great handler downhill and climbs the technical stuff well.
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z1 BAM and Hayes hydraulic on the front. XTR rear derailleur.
Bottom Line:
Had this bike just on 2 years and still love bombing down single track. It handles great and flicks around tight stuff nicely. Always waiting at the bottom of hills for my 2 buddies on their hardtails. However they are normally waiting for me at the top of hills - so it makes you work on your fitness. That is the one main area of concern, I think my bike weighs close to 30 pounds. The i-drive does make it climb really well over technical stuff though.
5 inches in the fork was probably overkill but the Marzocchi is so sweet - I've done nothing to it in 2 years. The Hayes disk completes a great front end.
No sign of any cracks or faults in the frame like some mention and I have ridden pretty hard in 2 years. The break away rear derailluer hanger is a good idea but buy a spare because I was still out of action for 3 weeks waiting for a replacement.
I think this is a really good bike and I had seen some 2000 model xcr2000s for $1300 (white/yellow) which makes it great value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gerard lieshout
a Weekend Warrior
from hoorn, the netherlands Date Reviewed: November 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
schoorl
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I-drive system
Weaknesses:
it's now thesecond time I had to send back my bike because of some welding problems, there are cracks near the seatpost and near the rear shock attachment. I am not very happy with all this as you can understand. wait and see how long it will take before I get another frame.
Similar Products Used:
specialized ground control 1997
Bike Setup:
nothing special, sid rear shock, magura rimbrakes, d 521 rims
Bottom Line:
this is now the second time I have to miss my bike for a number of weeks because of poor weldings. the i-drive is okay but my frame is very bad. what kind of frame do i get back? a newer frame as a sort of compensation for all my suffering? this is the last time i send it back, next time, if anything breaks or cracks,I'm going to trade in the bike and go for some other brand.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim keating
a Racer
from denton, TX Date Reviewed: November 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bar H
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Denton bicycle center
Strengths:
i-drive color marzzochi
Weaknesses:
front der. brakes weight week frame
Similar Products Used:
specilized giant
Bike Setup:
changed almost everything, well ok the frame is the only thing original.
Bottom Line:
this is my third reviewof this bike. i have had this frame for about 14 months. i have changed things around alot and finally figured out this bike when the frame breaks. there are cracks forming around the shock mounts and the seat mast. that reaaly sucks. i bought this bike hoping to have it for a long time. GT is replacing it with a 2001 model 1.0 , and that is good but will this frame brake too. it's supposed to be lighter! instead of 14 months i'll only get 4 months. i guess i will just have to wait and see. look back in about a month for my next review. as of now this frame gets only one chili.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Carter
a Weekend Warrior
from Roseville, CA Date Reviewed: October 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Flume, Lake Tahoe, NV
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1799.00
Purchased At:
The Back Country, Lake Tahoe, CA
Strengths:
Great in the rocks, great climbing.
Weaknesses:
Two that might have might have made me purchase another bike if I had known about them beforehand. 1, front brakes feel loose, lots of play. 2, Noise form the I-Drive. Constant clicking
Similar Products Used:
All the Specialized FS mounts. 4-bar
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I discovered the Back County Bike Shop web page quite by accident, I actually live in Roseville, CA, about 80 miles from Lake Tahoe. I was impressed and thought I would take a drive up there. Bought the XCR 2000 the next day. Rode the hell out of the bike for about two months, put about 300 miles of single track on it. Once I got over the thrill of owning a FS bike, reality set in. The front and rear Koski V brakes don't match. One is silver and one is black, they don't look the same either. I don't know how I could have missed that, but I did. Also the front brakes feel so sloppy, way too much play. I have them properly torqued down but no improvement. Also the I-Drive clicks when I put any pressure on the crank arms. That is very irritating. I overlooked it at first, thinking that I could take it back to the Back Country for one of their free "Tune ups" that was promised with the purchase of the bike. Well, took it up to the shop, waited about three or four hours and it still has sloppy brakes and clicks. I think I was so anxious to get home I was willing to put up with anything. I was hoping that the brakes worked at least as well as my cheap Specialized Hard Rock. I have this sinking feeling that I will end up replacing those Koski brakes. I just hope the sloppy brake issues doesn't have anything to do with the forks. Oh well, live and learn.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Mission Viejo, CA Date Reviewed: October 2, 2000
99 LX pads (chuck em!), saddle, weight, no discs, need to keep iDrive housing well-lubed and somewhat cleaned. (Did my LBS jip me out of an iDrive teardown manual??? Now where'd that BB thingamajig go?)
Similar Products Used:
Hardtails only
Bike Setup:
99' XCR2000, Time Atacs, XT ft. der., XTR shifters/brakes, TFI TI-Liberator saddle, Thomson seatpost, Panaracer Fire XC pros
Bottom Line:
Freakin amazing bike for the price, esp. if you picked up a 99' closeout like me. This is the bike for non-racers who relish extreme XC riding. I have not had a single serious mechanical failure yet on this bike after like 1200 miles and dozens of crashes--LX pulls through for being bombproof. The Z3QR20's seem a bit stiff to a lightweight rider like me, but I've had zero problems from them or the Vanilla Float R yet. This bike does require better brakes, however, for tackling the really sick trails its suspension was made for (it's got a 20mm front hub for pete's sake.) I always worry about the iDrive being too dirty, but even my half-a$$ cleaning/lubing seems enough to keep it happy. I agree with someone below that the cockpit is a bit awkward--oddly enough, switching to a shorter seatpost (250mm Thomson) allowed me a greater range of saddle positions than the much longer and heavier factory post--check the min height! Overall I'm really pleased with this bike and thank GT for an excellent product--5 chili's!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO USA Date Reviewed: September 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Colorado Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Pedl'r
Strengths:
I-drive; Z3 QR20; Fox Vanilla rear; WTB tires
Weaknesses:
STX front derailleur; grips; a bit heavy
Similar Products Used:
Only my 93 Stumpjumper hardtail.
Bike Setup:
Replaced front d with XT; replaced Z3 springs with heavier duty springs; replaced seat post with longer one.
Bottom Line:
I have really enjoyed this bike. Even though it is heavier than my Stumpjumper it is alot more comfortable over longer rides. I had to replace the shock springs with heavier duty ones because the medium weight ones were too soft for my 215 lbs and I'd almost endo on the drop-offs. Also, at 6'3" I needed a longer seat post to get better leg extension. I've had zero problems so far and the I-drive seems to be rock solid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Santee, CA USA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2000
Crappy STX front der, Shimano 515 pedals, GT grips
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose AR50 (Wal-Mart special), Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock except for ODI ruffin w/ lockjaws (rockin' grips) Icon riser bar, Teflon brake and derailer cables
Bottom Line:
This is the best G-damn bike out there. It corners like a jack-a-lope, bombs downhill like a runaway freight train, leaps over tall mountains in a single bound. If Superman was a Mountain Man he would be riding a red and blue XCR 2000. The Zokes are so stiff and supple. Will suck up the biggest drop off with mondo inspired confidence. Once did a near vertical drop off at Anderson's and rode away with a ear-spliting grin. None better. GT had the right formula for this bike in 1999. Unfortunatly they broke the mold and sold out to racer-x crowd in 2000. Come on GT. SID forks on this bike are just a waste of an awesome platform. I guess nothing good lasts forever. Thank the Mountain Gods I got a '99 with smoking setup. PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST! I CRASH THEREFORE I AM
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marcus Benn
a Cross Country Rider
from Leeds, UK Date Reviewed: July 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Jacob's Ladder (at moment)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush travel, I-Drive (works a treat), climbs really well, goes down again even better!
Weaknesses:
Saddle (uncomfy), tyres, colour.
Similar Products Used:
First full susser
Bike Setup:
Standard GT spec apart from Hutchinson Alligator tyres (which I strongly recommend)and Club Roost saddle. WTB was too wide for my butt.
Bottom Line:
Got the bike 4 days ago and have only done 1 ride of approx. 24 miles so far. The bike performed excellently. Climbing was much easier and quicker than my hardtail even though the GT is a few pounds heavier. The I-Drive sticks the rear to the ground regardless of terrain with zero bob, even on smooth tarmac. The first downhill section left me with a massive grin even though I still have to fully learn how to ride it. The front shocks soak up virtually everything and are totally twang free.
Felt much less tired after the ride than doing the same terrain on the hardtail, without the customary back ache from all the jarring.
All in all £780 very well spent. I love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave B
a Cross Country Rider
from Leesburg VA Date Reviewed: July 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Gambril
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Marzocchi QR20, FOX Vanilla Rear, I-Drive, GT Quality!
Weaknesses:
No Rear disk brake mount.
Similar Products Used:
Klein mantra, Schwinn Super 8, Specialized FSR.
Bike Setup:
Time Pedals, LX cranks, XT Real Der, Mavic 221's, EnduroRaptors.
Bottom Line:
WOW! This bike is amazing. Blasts downhill, strong up-hill, and the I-Drive is so smooth. I have seen other people complain about 2 things about the bike, the weight and the front der. (STX -Rc). First, this is a Full Suspension bike, how much should it weigh? You have to pay some price for 4.6 inches of sweet rear wheel travel. Second, the STX-RC front der. works just fine, shifts on demand, don't get scared because it doesn't say "XT" on it, the $h!t works. I have always ridden hard tails and wanted a FS bike to bomb downhill on, well needless to say the XCR will let you do it, H-bomb style. But what I didn’t expect is the way it climbs. It is a few pounds heavier than my hard tail (HT = 25lbs FS=28lbs) The weight is negated by the way the pre-load in the rear shock glues the rear tire to the ground (or lack there of) On my hard tail it climbs amazing but when the rough stuff comes up the rear wheel chatters, making me loose contact & speed, so I have to go slower. With the XCR the wheel never leaves the ground enabling you to fly up-hill! Who'd a thunk it? Best active suspension bike built for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kimba
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: June 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Design is virtually perfect. I'm not a M.E., but it seems real close to perfecto.
Weaknesses:
Yeah, the weight. But I'll echo others on this thread: It will only make you stronger. Once you ride it, you don't notice the shift from like 25 lbs to 28 or so. In fact, it seems easier to climb in this rig to me, probably from the good grab the i-drive provides. The stock FRONT deraileur blows but is manageable. I think the cable routing under BB is to blame. Any fixes??
Bottom Line:
Great bike; there no doubt about it, really. Hope it doesn't give me too much confidence since it is so forgiving, especially on freaky descents. Keep your head up and you'll love it, bandages notwithstanding. Take care.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vishal Patel
a Weekend Warrior
from London, England Date Reviewed: June 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Epping Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Forks Z3 Marzocchi(red), Fox Vanilla rear air shock, mixed componentry made up of Shimano XT and LX parts.
Weaknesses:
the headset tends to make a noise, if the bike is used to the extreme
Bike Setup:
Full standard specifications, except for seat that has been changed.
Bottom Line:
I have had this bike for around three months and it was pretty hard work adjusting to it, as it is quite a heavy frame. I have to say once getting used to it, the bike runs like butter. The forks are plush and the rear shock is just right to even it out. The I drive system at first made me slide all over the show when off road, but in dry conditions it grips well like shit on a blanket.
The riser bars are OK, as for the V Brakes are extrodinary, the components are also good for the price.
Overall I think that this bike is worth the money, but a word of advice do not under estimate it, as it has so much potential.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Bibby
a Cross Country Rider
from Sheffield, Peak District, ENGLAND Date Reviewed: May 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Moorland Singletrack
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Srong, plush Z3 fork. Plush Fox air shock. Decent componentry.
Weaknesses:
Front mech (from what people have been saying). No disc mounts. Risk of SERIOUSLY injuring yourself if you come off when going downhill, as this bike enables some seriously fast downhill speeds!!
Similar Products Used:
Univega Hardtail.
Bike Setup:
As stock except: Shimano M545 SPD pedals, X-Lite riser bars. May replace the seatpost with a longer, lighter one.
Bottom Line:
From what I can see, I'm one of the only English people to submit a review here. Can't understand why that is - I go riding in one of the unforgiving National Parks of the U.K., and although I've only used this bike on a few rides so far, it seems to have a fantastic ride. I would agree with the comments about the forks - they are super smooth and stiff. The rear shock seems to be of a high quality too. Can't really fault the other components, all decent stuff with the exception of the front mech, which will probably wear out pretty soon. Tyres seem OK, but I may replace them with some Fire XC pros I have. As for the ride - flatish riding seems fine, going up hills is good, because the rear suspension adds enormous traction, and I don't think it weighs too much anyway (how much does it weigh in pounds? Somebody tell me). Going downhill is amazing, as you might expect. My final point is that this bike is top class, but because I bought it for ONLY £800 (when it was £1400) makes it even better! Hopefully it will last me a long time.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gerard lieshout
a Weekend Warrior
from hoorn, netherlands Date Reviewed: May 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
schoorl
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
nice ride overall, no pedal feedback, hardly any serious maintenance necessary, good fork, comfortable riding position
Weaknesses:
frame is rather heavy, but I am not a light rider myself, you must adjust the front derailleur very precisely and then it does work alright. a more expensive derailleur, a XT doesn't work any better.
Similar Products Used:
my old steel hardtail with a use suspension seatpost, my specialized ground control 1996
Bike Setup:
mavic 521 ceramic wheels, magura hydraulic brakes, XTR rear der., syncros seatpost, fyzik seat, atac pedals, XT shifters with flightdeck, barends on the standard handlebar, looks weird but offers more riding position for your hands
Bottom Line:
bike works great, had hardly any problems, the bolt which connects main frame to the rear broke, had a nasty creak in the eccentric area, took everything apart, regreased it but the sound was still there, later it proved to be the bottom bracket which needed some grease on the threads. the dogbone sometimes clatters, the bushings are way too simple so now there is some play which results in this disturbing noise. but the biggest problem is a very small haircrack right above the eccentric and under the main pivot. it must have something to do with the quality of the weldings, but so far it has not influenced the way the bike rides but I am certainly going to contact the bikeshops. I don't mind swapping the old rear end for a new 2000 one, with discbrake mounts. To summarize it all: I love this bike, it is heavy but so am I, it climbs well and descents even better, it needs little maintance and the fox damper works fine, I only need to put in a lot air pressure to achieve the proper sag, I love the little rebound adjuster which works great to tune your ride, use it more often, change it and find out what works best for you. I bought this bike with a reduction of 30%, it cost me about0ne thousand american dollars in The Netherlands.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Killa "P"
a Cross Country Rider
from Tokyo, Japan Date Reviewed: May 6, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Got mine for $1200, great price. Super plush, Z3 qr20 w/fox float r in the rear are a perfect combo. I-drive does work!!!!
Weaknesses:
A little heavy but who cares. The way the bike handles makes up for the extra weight. You really don't notice the weight once you start riding the bike. (an actual quote from a buddy of mine who test rode my machine).
Similar Products Used:
First Full suspension. Only hardtails in the past.
Bike Setup:
Swapped out the following; XT hollowtech crankset, XT front der, avid ar50 brakes w/sd20 levers, Sram attack shifters, syncros post, and Serfas Dual density pro saddle.
Bottom Line:
The bike is excellent if it is used for what it was made for, a fun, fun, fun trail bike. At first I was worried bout the weight, but now I don't care!! This bike handles great. Read the FS shoot out in MTB action May 00 and see what the said bout the 2000 XCR 1000 (same bike different components) Plus I got a Japanese model (they offer it in different colors) Ball burnished silver w/red/blue decals, red rear triangle and red ZOKE!!!! killer color scheme!! Since I got it for $1200 I'm value rating it a 5 and over all a 4 cause it could go on a little diet!! Ha, Ha, Ha!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Crash
a Weekend Warrior
from Northshore Date Reviewed: April 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The dump
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
everything... fun fun fun fun...its a perfect bike still.. even better than when i bought it
Weaknesses:
i find the rear shock needs a slightly larger air chamber (i guess they fixed this now)
Similar Products Used:
you name it... K2 (proflex in the day, Fisher, Other GT's Kona (really nice), Rocky (also really nice), cove, specialized, klein (not bad.. not for me though)
Bike Setup:
Time pedals, XY seatpoast, raceface riser bar, RF cranks, ESP 9.0sl setup, XT braks and levers, XT Frnt der. taperlock BB
Bottom Line:
Still love it no complaints.. much lighter than stock.. rides so smooth still.. uhh.. climbs better with the XY and im more comfortable too... ride it, its fun. LOVE THE BOMBERS
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adrien Murphy
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: April 23, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Plush, plush, PLUSH!!!! Great traction especially turning and climbing. You can actually sprint out of the saddle w/out too much suspension bob (the Idrive works I guess! Though notice I said without TOO much, it still bobs cause you're moving you're wieght up and down on it) Oh and I'd be remiss if I didn't mention it came with neat WTB Presta valve caps that look cool.
Weaknesses:
Not a complaint, just a statement of fact: It ain't light, this doesn't bother me much (even though I'm not a terribly good climber) as the increased traction seems to make up for it (You get less tense and waste less energy trying to balance between traction and keeping the front wheel down so you're more efficient and feel stronger on the climbs, you do kinda notice it on less steep climbs though) If you ain't gonna race it XC no big deal though, that's what hardtails and softtail are for right?
Similar Products Used:
Must admit none really unless you count 2-3min on a friend's FSR that was too small for me on a bit of not too rough singletrack. It was still enough however too realize I needed an FS ride!
Bike Setup:
Stock 'cept for a Shimano Flight Deck (Good computer but who wrote the manual, I mean come on Shimano, I know if you put enough monkeys on typewriters for long enough... I kinda had to used my superior deduction skills (I pushed buttons until stuff happened) to figure out somethings not explained in the manual) I changed the too-wide-for-my-rear WTB saddle for a FIZIK with cream & brown cow fur (comfy and looks stylie & and kinda endearing I might add)
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, it suites my riding style does what is advertized and doesn't cost more than a similar bike from the competition. What more could you ask for? (well world peace, a cure for hunger and an end to polution would be nice but what can you do? keep ridin' I say!) I'm actually starting to feel guilty 'cause I'm neglecting my hardtail and my road bike, I feel like I can't look 'em in the eye anymore... There's one last detail I should mention The rims are specd with schraeder holes with inserts for presta valves. Good idea that saved my butt when I realized that my spare tube (taken from my hardtail without thinking) was a schraeder and the glue in my patch kit was dried up!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Harrington
a Cross Country Rider
from Virginia Beach Date Reviewed: April 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wallers Mill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very Strong FrameSet, Plush Suspension, I-Drive
Weaknesses:
I-Drive dog bone bushings wear fast, STX RC cheesey front derailer
Similar Products Used:
N/A
Bike Setup:
Switched to 2000 XT Hollow Tech cranks, XT Front derailer, XT Cassette, XTR Shifter pods and leavers, Specalized Body geo saddle, BeBop pedals, Control Tech Rear derailer pulleys.
Bottom Line:
I am very pleased over all with the bikes performance. It is a little heaver than most but I have adjusted well and feel it will make me stronger. There has been a little issue with the lock ring on the I drive loosening up after I cleaned and repacked the unit but I think I have got that issue resolved now. The Dot system didn't really work a advertised but it was pretty simple to set the Float R at .38 inchs of sag which is the 25% point of travel. One thing to help your setup is to go to the hardware sore and get an O Ring and install on the Piston shaft like the new 2000 foxes have. This will make it easy to setup by yourself.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin J Wagner
a Weekend Warrior
from Indianapolis, Indiana Date Reviewed: March 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wallace Falls, Washington
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
I love the Marzocchi Bomber Z-3 with matching front hub. I'm impressed with GT's I-Drive system. The componets are good for the price.
Weaknesses:
After reading the reviews on here I had the shop swap out the front derailer with a XT.
Similar Products Used:
Klien Mantra Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock except for front derailer.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. It does what I want it to do.....GO DOWNHILL FAST. The combo of the Marzocchi front and the Fox rear make for a smooth ride. It is real hard to get a better bike for the money. The frame runs a bit larger than most. I'm 6'3" and I fit on the med frame. If you are a big person like me this bike is for you. It climbs better than most full suspensions, but it's no goat. If one wanted to use this as a CC bike, the bike would have to go on a diet. BOTTOM LINE: Best full suspension for the money. Great for downhill.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott skills
a Racer
from texas Date Reviewed: February 24, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
I-Drive, Frame design, Zoke's fork, fox float r,
Weaknesses:
pivot bushings & dog bone bushing wear easily
Similar Products Used:
ridden way to many duals
Bike Setup:
thompson seat post, Chris King R hub, race face next cranks, XT fd, XTR rd, time ATAC pedals, sun rims, race face bars, stiffy stem, King headset
Bottom Line:
I have made some mods to slightly decrees the weight, but stock, the bike runs like a charm. I have raced hardtails, and the transition to the dual was a smooth one with the help of the I-drive(ecentric). my performance race wise has not declined on the full-suspension. The Xcr climbs like a goat. My body has adjusted to the slight weight difference(hardtail vs. dual) and now i dont even notice it. So to all you wieght crunchers, get on a bike and let your muscles adapt to it before you start crying, oh, and when your standing at the finish line who's name do they call, yours or your bikes!!! A skilled rider can compete on anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Spencer Meilicke
a Cross Country Rider
from Coquitlam, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: January 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
B & A
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The front forks, beautiful. Absorbs all of the impact and mostly all of the drops. O.K. rear shock, impact a bit hard but for drops and downhilling it is all ya need!
Weaknesses:
The only real thing would be the front derailer. I mean all derailers work and this one is just like any other lower end one. When peddling presure is aplied the chain doesn't like to move from ring to ring. Sometimes it won't move, so you just push it into the next gear, but not all the way. It works, just not like higher end ones.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Rockey Mtn Pipeline.
Bike Setup:
Very good angles and nice handle bars. You have lot's of ground clearence so most of the times, atleast for me you can't touch the ground the way you can on a hard tail.
Bottom Line:
This bike rules! I'm sure it is good at downhill. Any bike that doesn't brake will be. Brakes sound a bit rough but surely they will slow you down. There better than cantilever breaks. Cable disk doesn't perform the way these do, atleast when there new. A couple raddles when riding but who cares, if there just you're cables against you'er frame. Tire are O.K. There nice and wide and make lot's of noise when going fast down hills. Front forks couldn't be any better. The re inforced hub and ther over all fork is very sturdy. The frame is heavy but I think weight results in the actual strength of the frame. The rear shock is great. I like the I drive, the bike has a adjustment that is perfect for you're weight. The impact is a touch hard, but you're off youre seet anyways. I am impressed with the low first gear. Because of the weight it is a touch harder to climb hills, but atleast it gets you there with no problem! This is a perfect bike for the person who doesn't want to spend a redicules amount of money on a bike. For what you'er getting I think it's a good deal. Don't forget the I drive system probebly jacks up the price. So if it isn't perfect you can alayse change the bike's set up. I will see how the derailer performs but I had a lower end derailer on a cheap bike and it seemed to work better than this one. Maybe it's just the skinny chain I don't know. The one thing this bike could have is maybe better brakes or better pads and a better derailer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Teresa
a
from Arlington, VA Date Reviewed: January 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Spruce Knob in WV
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Plushest suspension system I've found, and it requires much less maintenance than the LTS and other suspension designs. I love the i-drive design and z-3 - I can't believe it comes stock on this bike.
Weaknesses:
Weight - but let's face it, if I wanted to drop a few pounds for the climbs, I might as well lose a few pounds of fat. The front derailleur sucks. It never has worked properly, even with adjustment. Just put it in the middle chainring and go with it.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, GT LTS-1, Cannondale F series, Schwinn Homegrown.
Bike Setup:
Time ATAC pedals. Everything else is stock, although I modified the riserbar for my small upperbody (since they seem to design most mtn. bikes for men).
Bottom Line:
For the price, you aren't going to find a better full suspension bike, especially if you like a fast, plush ride. The only thing to make it better would be a different front derailleur design and a few pounds lighter, but I'll sacrifice the extra weight for the way this bike rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TIM KEATING
a Cross Country Rider
from DENTON Date Reviewed: January 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
BAR-H
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
I-DRIVE
Weaknesses:
STX-RC FRONT DER. LX BRAKES WEIGHT
Similar Products Used:
GIANT XTC SPECIALIZED FSR
Bike Setup:
636 PEDALS PROFILE DH BAR PANARACER DH TIRES AND TUBES ODYSSEY DH SADDLE T.H.E. FENDERS
Bottom Line:
THIS IS MY SECOND REVIEW OF THIS BIKE, I HAVE HAD IT ABOUT 8 MONTHS AND AFTER A FEW MODS. IT IS WORKING GREAT. I STILL LOVE THE WAY THIS BIKE RIDES, AND STILL NO PROBLEMS FROM THE I-DRIVE. I JUST WISH YOU COULD PUT DISCS ON THE REAR. I WOULD LOVE TO GET A 2000 REAR TRIANGLE AND PUT IT ON MY BIKE SO I COULD HAVE DISCS. THAT IS THE BIGGEST DRAWBACK FOR ME. OTHERWISE THIS IS A GREAT BIKE AND I AM VERY GLAD I BOUGHT IT,
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross-Country Rider
from Oak Ridge, TN Date Reviewed: December 24, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
PLUSH
Weaknesses:
Heavy I suppose.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale SuperV's, Specialized FSR's
Bike Setup:
Bone stock XCR-2000
Bottom Line:
I've never had the chance to take this out on any serious trials, just some test rides around the shop (I'm a mechanic), but this is an awesome bike! The suspension soaks up everything incredibly well. I can imagine that the front shifting is a bit difficult to set up, and may pose a problem shifting while going over some rough stuff, but if you set it up good while you're on it (barrel adjusters on the shifters) it still works pretty well. Overall its an excellent bike. I plan on buying a 2000 models as soon as they're out (come on GT!) and I've got the $$.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bobby
a Cross-Country Rider
from ny Date Reviewed: December 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
saxon woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
rear d/r, front shock, maybe rear shock,i drive and frame.
Weaknesses:
rear shock leaked after 6 months, front d/r wasnt too bad at first but steadily got worse. i also dislike the tires,and the brake levers.
Similar Products Used:
evrything
Bike Setup:
thomson post, xtr crank + bottom bracket, shimano dx pedals.
Bottom Line:
even after the problems that i have had i still thoroughly enjoy this bike. it has a great ride and comes with great stock parts. the only main thing that i dislike is how my rear shock seals had already been blown after just six months. when the fox is working it's definetly one of the best, but when its not, well its not. since i have upgraded my crank and post it has shed some weight and made the bike perform better and more fun. my pedals i simply popped on because of their great feel and versatility in most situations. now for the ride of this bike i couldn't ask for anymore, it has a smooth stable ride and doesn't feel even close to it's actual weight. Up hills arn't nearly as bad as u would think and downhills are a blast, except for the slight traction failure of my wtb enduroraptors.i am giving this bike 4 flameing turds because of its great ride, but must minus one for rear shock disapointment!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross-Country Rider
from Danville, California Date Reviewed: November 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mr. Toad's wild Ride in Lake Taheo
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
QR 20 hub Front and rear shocks Price $$
Weaknesses:
The front derailer does not work very well. So just get used to it.
Similar Products Used:
Schwin 4 banger All XCR models FSR's
Bike Setup:
IRC kujo DH tires Everything else on the bike is the same.
Bottom Line:
THis bike kicks some serious butt on the downhill so I can't complain about the weight. The IRC Kujo's weight adds a lot to the already heavy bike. The bike climb real well. Infact I just rode it up MT. Diablo this weekend. The I drive works real well and preforms real well to. It works well still after all the abuse that I put it under. I got the bike for 1,500 and it is worth every penny.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kelly Paasch
a Cross-Country Rider
from Eden, Utah Date Reviewed: November 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The suspention works good together, and the rear derailer works nice. Nice downhill riding position.
Weaknesses:
Front derailer is junk, in fact even after upgrading to XT it still doesn't work that great. The Z3 dives on hard cornering and braking.
Similar Products Used:
FRS, Mantra, XRC 1000, XCR 3000, XCR 4000
Bike Setup:
Time petals, XT front derailer Titanium rail seat
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. It climbs hills great. I went from a Zaskar to this and my 2000 will climb rough climbs better than my Zaskar. The rise bars help open breathing better and the riding position is very adjustable. Four inches of travel is a lot of travel if its doesn't work correctly. The Z3 works good in most situations except for in hardbraking, Cornering, and Washboard type situations, it would be nice to have better rebound. I would recommend going to the Z1 which performs much better in the rebound area. The excentrix need some help. I stripped one out and noticed that two others at a shop were not even constructed correctly from the factory! The XCR 1000 system seems to work much better than the 2000-4000 systems. Make sure and align the washers of the three lock bolts in the grove correctly or it will stip; and then, like mine, it still might strip. The wishbone also likes to crack alot and the seals were either bad or the design was bad in my excentrix. After one trip down a muddy downhill the bearings where making a horrid sound and I had to replace the bearing, seals and races. The front derailer was a complete waste. A bike this expensive should have at least an XT derailer on the front. Even then though it still wouldn't shift well. It would be nice to see the 2000 avalable in an eight speed rear caset, as to eliminate the sucky shifting. As far as good things go it is really fun to ride up and down hills, obviously it excells in the downhill area as it jumps great and corners better. Although it would be nice to have IRC's or XC pro's on it the WTB's work great for downhill tires and ok for going up. I would have expected to have a little better than 221 mavic's on an expensive bike but they have held up really well so I can live with it. The red dot system is a bunch of bull as doesn't work nine out of ten times. But even without the dot its easy enough to adjust. Overall its a great bike to ride and I've listed all the problems that I've ever had. A good thing for the future would be for GT to look into creating a great bike that not only works good but LASTS. Your repair bill on this bike will slowly grow if you ride it like you paid two grand for it. Because of the cost and the mantnance I'm going to have to take of two chili's but if it wasn't for that it would be a perfect score. I think it was definetly worth the price compared to the other bikes as the 3000 and 4000 thousand just don't go up hills and its even harder to push them up that hill. Also the FSR and the Mantra doen't hold a chance in the downhill world. All in all with a few mods (petals, front derailer and possibly a Z1) this bike would get a big perfect score, and even without it is still a kickin' bike. Many a full suspension bikes have I left in the dust going down some narly hills.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren Lueking
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ft. Lauderdale, Fl Date Reviewed: October 14, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
I-Drive and Fox Vanila rear
Weaknesses:
Location of rear brake cables at I-Drive. Weight
Similar Products Used:
Y-33, FSR
Bike Setup:
XTR V brakes Marz Jr. T XT Front Derail Race Face Forged cranks
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike. Shocks absorb anything you throw at them. Point the nose and pedal like hell you will make it or hold on for dear life.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Guillaume
a Downhiller
from White Rock, British Colombia Date Reviewed: October 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Delta water shed
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
down-hill, i-drive, qr 20 fork, fox air shock color, fun to ride around
Weaknesses:
going up-hill, heavy, front derailleur, a bit expesive
Similar Products Used:
cannondale raven(with the lefty) cannondale freerides
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this bike rule
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slide
a Cross-Country Rider
from Yuma, AZ Date Reviewed: October 3, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
QR 20 fork Fox air shock I-drive
Weaknesses:
Lime green color (but who cares?) Front shifting LX brakes
Similar Products Used:
AMP B-4 GT RTS
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for overall having fun. I got it because after renting an XCR 4000 for a weekend I was hooked on plush, big travel bikes. My other bike is lighter and a lot faster on smooth singletrack and smooth climbs, but once it gets rocky or rough this bike rules. It is pretty much point and pedal, and I've been able to ride everything up and down hill I could on my other bike, plus some. It may be a little heavy, but like somebody else said get some legs! My only real beef is that the front shifting is finicky to say the least. I am switching to an XT derailleur to check that, but I think it is something else since the STX-RC and XT are almost identical to my eye. The brakes started to rattle after about 4 hard rides, but they still work fine. I hear there is a bushing kit available for this very problem. Can't say enough about the fork and shock, and the I-drive does work. Go at least try one, and if you want a fun, fun bike that's not TOO spendy, get one!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Najeeb Khan
a Cross-Country Rider
from Irvine, CA Date Reviewed: September 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
El Morro State Park
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Marzocchi front shock, Fox Vanilla Float RC rear shock, i-drive.
Weaknesses:
Front shifting should be flawless for a bike in this price range.
Bottom Line:
i-drive rocks! This is one PHAT bike, it climbs better than my old hardtail. The ride is ultra smooth and there is no bobbing (i-drive really works), but the rear shock is very responsive to bumbs when climbing. I love this bike and am looking forward to riding it for a long time.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross-Country Rider
from Port Orchard WA Date Reviewed: September 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Blanchard Hill, Wa.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Climbs like a hardtail, comfortable, just like a FS bike should be...The QR 20 is untouchable, this bad boy corners like it is on a rail!
Weaknesses:
STX-RC Front Derailleur and LX Brakes do not work on this bike. Upgrade and save yourself skin and pain!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Upgrades include XT brakes and front derailleur.
Bottom Line:
What a magnificent ride! After you whip the snot out of your buddies on the long climbs feel free to remind them that your rig weighs in at 33 pounds! Then add insult to injury and leave them in the dust on the descent. Last one down buys! There is not a more comfortable bike on the market. If you need more technical information, feel free to read all of the other reviews, but why waste any more of your time. Head out to your local GT dealer and find out for yourself what a real bike feels like!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Hillger
a Cross-Country Rider
from Nantucket Mass Date Reviewed: September 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bunch
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Still fun
Weaknesses:
Falling apart
Bike Setup:
Check my other reviews
Bottom Line:
Well, I'm back again. This is gonna be the last review unless GT works wonders in my future. The bike is still a ball. Ireally do enjoy it and have told many of you that who have e-mailed me. But the bottem line is.... it's starting to fall apart! I admit its had hard use this last year, but also loving care! Have had to take apart and grease the main pivot a bunch this summer. More than I should. Also the pivots on either end of the shock are corroding (sp) Makes a nasty noise! Good point is I dont have to yell on the down hills anymore to warn people! But the coup de gras is that where the dog bone ataches to the main frame (aluminum) , The hole has already started to elonggate. Makes for a very noisy ride and the I-drive I would assume is not at its best. I have temp. repaired this with shim stock, but it is only a matter of time before the frame fails in this area. Hopefully my new Moots will be here soon and than I can ship this thing back to the manufacturer for an overhaul. Oh yeah, I usually don't folow everyone else but, the front der. has done bombed out! I guess a year ain't to bad. But , as much as I love the ride of this bike, what I paid , It should be lasting a lot longer. Man them peppers is dissappearing real fast! See ya
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Aiken
a Weekend Warrior
from CLT NC Date Reviewed: September 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
I-Drive, Marzzochi Shock is forgiving
Weaknesses:
20mm hub requires adapter for carriers, Front Derailler weak, Heavy
Similar Products Used:
1st FS Bike.. Specialized RH Comp
Bottom Line:
Fun Ride... with a few tweaks (upgrade to shifters/levers and front derailler) I love riding this bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dustin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Kelowna Date Reviewed: August 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything down
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Bomber,fox air shock
Weaknesses:
tires, front der, value compared to other bikes
Similar Products Used:
FSR extreme Rocky mountain's brodie's norco's
Bike Setup:
variations including disks, fat tires ect.
Bottom Line:
The people that have the bike love it, but they have been coming into the shop having problems like ovalized pivets, dirty I-drives worn out frames because the rear tire has to be smaller then 2.3. other then that it is a plush bike that a lot of people love
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
speed racer
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver BC Date Reviewed: August 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
hardcore steep stuff
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
THE I DRIVE SYSTEM!! IT WORKS!!!!!
Weaknesses:
STX F DER. AND LX CRANKS.. UGLY!!! and the brakes are a little weak.. (to upgrade this stuff at the time i bought it cost 200$ can.. and i got a grip 9.0 sl kit too)
Bike Setup:
XT cranks and rings, grip shift 9.0sl kit, xt front der., grip shift 9.0sl brake levers and xt V's, race face BB, and a RooX riser bar
Bottom Line:
VERY SWEET the bike handles nicely, i love the i drive it works miracles in my mind.. the set up isnt quite as easy as the advertising hype said it would be, but over all it wasnt to bad.. i had the little dot a little past the triangle (stiffer) but even when the bike was set up soft it didnt biopace atol. stx shifter didnt give me any problems (i didnt keep it on long enough to) but i still think GT cvoulda given us a break and speced a better der. but over all this is the plushest most fun ridable bike ive ever owned.. i still have my specialized m2 comp for certain things, but i find im riding it less and less.. im gonna even try racing on my 29 pound i drive here soon.. (after i get a ighter whell set)!! SWEET BIKE.. BUY IT!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim keating
a Cross-Country Rider
from denton,TX Date Reviewed: August 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
BAR-H, The Breaks
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
I-Drive Works Cool Green Color QR20 Z-3
Weaknesses:
STX-RC Fr. Der.
Similar Products Used:
Giant DS2 Specialized FSR-Comp
Bike Setup:
Fire-XC DH Tires 636 Pedals T.H.E. Fender
Bottom Line:
I have only had this bike for three days but have ridden over 90 miles. It weighs about 35 pounds but it is so much fun to ride i only notice at the end of a 3 hour ride. It decsends like nothing else and still climbs well enough to keep up with my friends on their hardtails ( well not REAL close) on steep ascents. the I-drive really works well. i really don't notice any bob while climbing. the only problems i had were the stx-rc front der. it just stopped working after about 2 hours of hard riding, and the brakes were a little weak for such a well descending bike. i plan on moving up to an xt der. and hpoefully disc on the front. that will come in time though. i will definetely come back after a few months and give another review or if any big problems arise. overall this is a fun bike to ride on those epic trails, but not a fireroad flyer. it's good clean fun and good climbing bike if your not a weight whiner. buy it and go out and ride!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Abernackle
a Racer
from vancouver Date Reviewed: August 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything hardcore baby
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
EVERYTHING all that weight that people complain about is so low i nthe fram its had to notice.. and if you do notice it then your weak like a little girl
Weaknesses:
the little stx shifter (no problems yet buts its still just STX) anf the ugly assed lx cranks..
Similar Products Used:
FSR XC, Kona stab, kikapu, heckler, Foes, fisher level betty, trek Y
Bike Setup:
got an xt front deraliure, 9.0sl shifters and r deraluer, race face BB and cranks and rings, and the new easton DH bar
Bottom Line:
AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME AWSOME!! NO BIOPACE WHAT SO EVER.. as long as its set up properly, its takes a bit to do this.. but once its done.. its done... everyone should like this bike for what it is... a fun west coast type trail bike... it soaks everything up.. including squirrles and rabbits... fun fun fun.... moved my seat all the way back cause its a slightly cramped cockpit for me (im 6'2) and im thinking of actually putting on a different seat.. not a fan of WTB (nothing wrong with it.. its me i swear! anyways buy the bike or else ill assasinate you.. youll thank me (for the bike.. not the assasination) have fun
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Cox
a Cross-Country Rider
from Manchester, NH Date Reviewed: August 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
FOMBA's Red Pine
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
i-drive, Maz z3 fork and Fox rear suspension
Weaknesses:
STX Front Derailer
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Raven, Specialized FS
Bike Setup:
As spec'ed by GT
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome fun bike, who cares if its a little heavy. Excellent value for the dollars. I have no problem with the front derailer shifting, because I seldomly have to shift when the suspension is real active with the 9 speed hub and have the rear shock maxed for fast rebound. It climbs really well, the rear suspension with the i-drive actually improves traction with almost no loss of power. This bike eats up the downhills and will hop and jump like a rabbit. Fun, Fun, Fun .............. I love this bike. Thank You GT for designing this bike, but dump the the STX derailler for an LX or XT. Kevin.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andreos
a Downhiller
from Slovakia Date Reviewed: August 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Da Bomb, Fox, i-Drive
Weaknesses:
front derailleur,WTB tires
Similar Products Used:
Merida, Author, Trek, FSR, Scott G-zero
Bike Setup:
XT brakes/levers,WTB Raptors ( now IRC MudMad )
Bottom Line:
This bike is worth all its money. The front and rear suspension works great. On fast downhills the QR20 is superb and the i-drive works great.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Rockhead
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bakersfield, CA Date Reviewed: August 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
Really really really great bike once you get it set up, i found that i set it up a little stiffer than recomended it makes it climb a little better (which is just amazing by the way) and it still has the medium and big hit capability so overall this bike kicks.. if its to heavy for you than go on a diet and work out once in a while you keak human being you ..HAHAHA!!! Ohh yeah its really pretty too (except the LX cranks) and trade in the LX pads (they are not good)(that trade in should be close to free) bye bye.. nice bike
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ID
a Racer
from SoCal Date Reviewed: July 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
San Juan
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
PLUSH. This thing just floats over everything. Perfect geometry for climbing and DHing FAST. It felt good watching my buddies bobbing around uphill on their duals as I pass them smoothly. The big granny gear is great...I loved itwhen I passed the guys on their triple clamp forks. The Marzocchi is da BOMB. My friends with the other duals are jealous, amazed of the plushness it provides. It floated over all the rocky stuff and handled great on the tight singletrack switchbacks. I developed a new sense of braveness...more confidence on drop offs and jumps. Perfect bike for an all dirt 30 mile day...very comfy. It weighs a little more than some other duals in it's class, but if 2-3 pounds is a big deal to you then you need train harder, candy @$$.
Weaknesses:
The front derailleur started acting up on my last ride. Could be that it's a STX-RC or maybe I just need to clean my drivetrain.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale super V, FSR, GT LTS 1000 DS, Schwinn 4-banger
Bike Setup:
Standard set up with Black frame with red accents,Marzocchi Z3 QR20 (da BOMB), Fox Vanilla shocks, Shimano XT/LX mix.
Bottom Line:
Eye catching looks, great ride, good price (got mine for $1500), makes your riding buddies jealous...very happy with it and still have money left to upgrade as I go along.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a Weekend Warrior
from Milpitas, California Date Reviewed: July 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Forks, shock, I Drive
Weaknesses:
Front shifting
Similar Products Used:
FSR, Trek Y
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Plush but heavy. Hope there is a fix for the crappy front shifting problem. Can you effectively adjust a derailler that moves away from the chain rings when the suspension is compressed?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Hillger
a Cross-Country Rider
from Nantucket Mass Date Reviewed: July 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Fun
Weaknesses:
Fun
Similar Products Used:
bunch
Bike Setup:
lots changes
Bottom Line:
Well, its time to check in again. Don't much like this new format with all the red stars you MUST answer. What are you guys looking for a mailing list to sell? Don't sell my name. Anyway I reviewed this bike back a few months ago and said I get back in a few more, Well here we are. Still love the bike. Its a ball and handles great. Would still buy another one. But as with all things wear and tear start to become apparent as age grows. First, I have changed the , handlebars, seat ,tires, stem and seatpost in order to make the bike fit me well. This was expected. Now I got about 1400 miles on it and, yes the main pivot finally went wacky a while ago. No big deal, press it out , put on a little teflon grease, and bango, working . The paint is a little faded , but so is my Peterbilt, both live outside. Chainrings are pretty well shot, (more on that) and the cables have had the meat. So, into the garage to update. Tear down the excentric, thats easy, a little cleaning and grease , easy back together. But, I say, lets upgrade a few things as we go. Big mistake. Got Race face cranks, new chain, ti- Chain rings, Flack jacket cables , etc. Anybody out there try to measure the chain line on one of these? Its wacked. And race face cranks wont work on these bikes especially without changing the shifters. We spent hours trying to put things together anyway possible, 3 diferent BB, and finally concluded something ain't good. So put it all in a box and off to a certified GT dealer. Gave him the woes , No Problem, we'll have it running in a couple of hours. That was two weeks and many phone calls ago. It still ain't right. Hopefully it will be soon. We are gonna dump all the RF and Ti stuff and go back to cheapo Shimmano stuff that came on the bike. What I learned here is that I need TWO bikes. Maybe a Moots is in my future. Anyway, Thye bike has held up wonderfully for me. What has crapped out is the wear and tear items. So if your thinking of one , buy it, you won't regret it, just DONT try to upgrade it or mix and match parts (which is half the fun) . It will give you a brain fart. Good luck. Oh yes , and the couple of times I have e-mailed GT never an answer. Not spectacular support. So i gotta drop a star or two cause while this is a great product, evidently not much thought (at GT) was given to long term survival of the product.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Calgary, AB Date Reviewed: July 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
chaki machihot
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
climbing, to the guys whom about it.. try any other FS bike, youll learn this is better., just learn how to ride better
Weaknesses:
that pathetic little stx-rc front derailler (i dont really notice bad shifting from it, it just looks tacky, i put on an XT shortly after), also the ugly lx cranks.. another part that works fine but is just poochy on such a nice bike.
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr xc comp, king kickapu, proflex 855,
Bike Setup:
Grip shift plasma 9.0, XT v-brakes/levers, XT front derailler
Bottom Line:
Very nice riding and very plush and very fun and oooohhhh soo much fun, (ooppss got carried away), its the best ride that ive tried EVER and ive ridden way more suspension than you. I personally didnt like the FSR XC Comp found it wasted too much power in bob going up hills, this just flies (once you get the technique down) its better at rock strewn hils than anything else AND STOP WASTING TIME PICKING LINES ON THE DOWN HILLS, this bad boy just soaks up all the ruts, pick the fast line, not the easy one. with a little effort it could be way litter too (if your a wimp) HAHAHA have fun riding whatever it is you ride, anyone in lethbridge that sees this, EMAIL me im moving there soon (off to the university) and i want a riding partner for the fall.. CIAO!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BOBBY
a Racer
from WESTCHESTER, NY Date Reviewed: July 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
GRAMHILLS
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
GREAT, STRONG FORK FABOULOUS REAR SHOCK NEW I-DRIVE
THIS BIKE IS WORTH ALL ITS MONEY. THE FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION CHOICES ARE EXCELLENT. ON LONG FAST DOWNHILLS THE QR 20 IS A DEFINITE ADVANTAGE OVER ALL OTHER SINGLE CROWN FORKS. THE I-DRIVE WORKS GREAT. ALL SUSPENSION BOB IS ALIMINATED BY THIS BIKE! THE REAR SHOCK IS ANOTHER GREAT ADDITION TO THIS BIKE. IT LIGHTENS IT UP AND PROVIDES A GREAT ADJUSTIBLE REAR SHOCK. MY ONLY PROBLEM WITH THIS BIKE IS ITS FRONT DERALIEUR, THE STX-RC IS WAY TO CRAPPY FOR THIS UPPER PRICED BIKE! I WOULD HAVE REALLY LIKED TO SEE AN LX OR POSSIBLY AN XT INSTEAD. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS BIKE TO ANYONE WHO DOESN'T MIND THE WEIGHT AND LOVES TO JUST HAVE PLAIN FUN!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom MacLean
a Weekend Warrior
from Fremont Date Reviewed: July 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
soquel demonstration forrest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great on the downhills and a good climber in the ruff. I found the tires to be great on fire road descents.
Weaknesses:
Weight, I do notice poor shifting in the front. The bolts that anchor the fox floatr to the swingarm come loose.
Similar Products Used:
fsr
Bottom Line:
I was hoping someone had this concern. I bought a medium and had to get a longer seat post in order to get a full leg extension Iam now finding myself lowering the seatpost for descents and raising it for climbs. Has anyone out there played with Stem rises or handle bar rises so that it doesnt feel like you are about to endo all the time? email me at tom_maclean@baynetworks.com Thnx
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Buffalo, NY Date Reviewed: June 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Hunters Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Fox Vanilla Float rear shock, Marzocchi Bomber
Weaknesses:
Front Derailleur
Similar Products Used:
My brothers GT LTS
Bike Setup:
Swapped pedals for 747s
Bottom Line:
I have yet to get the i-drive set up the way that the manual suggests and have given up trying. I can't get the bike set up to shift perfectly (front or rear), and the cockpit was way too small(felt like a hybrid) so I rotated the handle bars forward and moved the seat all the way back and it helped a lot. I went from a Zaskar to this bike and it has taken a while to make the transition from super stiff hardtail to super plush full rig, but the more I ride the xcr the more I like it. Bold statement: The Zaskar could climb some ugly, technical, and steep trails...the xcr can climb just as well!! but only After I made the effort to change my riding style. If you can't climb on this bike blame yourself. The weight is fine also..stop whining and lose the beer gut if you need a lighter ride. I would give it a five but I haven't owned it long enough. I worry about the i-drive...no problems yet.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Spike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Canandaigua N.Y Date Reviewed: June 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good all day ride.Flies down hill.While dad breaking Im still motoring.I love my bomber.
Weaknesses:
Its a little heavy,but i can deal with it.I find my climbing position a bit awkward on the steep stuff,perhaps a longer stem will help.The raptor tires that comes with bike do suck,changed to smoke and dart classic.
Similar Products Used:
Canondale freerides Stumpjumper FsrXc
Bottom Line:
I think a hard tail will always climb better,but if you can put up with the few drawbacks of a Fs ride I recommend the GT XCR 2000.It desends well and climbs well enough.It will take you want to go.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Kelowna,B.C. Date Reviewed: June 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything technically challenging.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The plushest full suspension bike I have ever tried.
This bike is amazing!The I-Drive system works great and is holding up well under harsh riding situations.Singletrack,logs,wheelie drops,or steep descents,this bike does it all with confidence inspiring forgiveness.Heavy?Sure,but oh so worth it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Donski
a Cross-Country Rider
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: June 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Waywayanda
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
outstanding tracking-- up or downhill. Inspires confidence so much you forget how fast you are really going. Front fork is plush and huge, takes everything in stride. The i-drive system works well, you can ride it with no bobbing at all once you get used to it .
Weaknesses:
weighs a lot-- but i'm no liteweight the oversize bottom bracket needs special cleaning, too much space to build up crap. i am still waiting for it to start squeaking.
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher- cannondale -- klein
Bike Setup:
just bar ends for now.. stx front derailleur is going soon, so are the tires
Bottom Line:
I am 225 lbs and I like to ride on rocky trails very fast. At speed it is solid and steady, this bike is everything I wanted. Just make sure your ready to pedal hard up hills, this limo ain't no easy up hill rider.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SF
a Cross-Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: June 1, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Having a constant seat hight as well as chain length. 13.5 BB height. Z3 QR20
Weaknesses:
Weight. 13.5 high BB makes for a very high ride height
Similar Products Used:
LTS LOBO, Goose NX 8.3, Rocky's and Dale's
Bike Setup:
Race Face Ti BB, Magura HS22, XT crank, ATAC carbon, and I'll definatly upgrade the front der. when it breaks.
Bottom Line:
This is the best full susp. I've ridden. Sure it's a bit heavy but, having a light bike doesn't do you any good if you don't have the traction to get you up the hill.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Morgan
a Cross-Country Rider
from Small Town, IL Date Reviewed: May 26, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Cushy ride. Rides real well on trails
Weaknesses:
Front shifting never worked correctly. Even out of the box. The I-drive is just a maintinevce problem. This bike will make you want to stay out of the mud. Lots of odd noises coming from the inner workings of this bike. I have taken apart and cleaned many times.
Similar Products Used:
none-first soft tail
Bike Setup:
Hard Rock
Bottom Line:
Buy something better with your money. unless you have a personal mechanic.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: May 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Crawford Trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The plushest, smootest, and fastest bike I have ridden. It sails over everything.(Including the neighbors cat)
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy but it follows the terrain so well it climbs as well as a bike 5 lbs lighter! Tires offered little traction in mud.
I'm a mechanic and I have ridden many different bikes. The bike rides amazingly. it couldn;t follow the terrain much better. Disc brakes can be used on this bike, by use of one of the many different brake adapters. The Disk hub for the QR20 forks are hard to get a hold of, I would recommend changing the fork to a Z3 long travel or a Z1 Dropoff/Bam, to make finding a disc hub easy.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy A
a Cross-Country Rider
from Chicago, IL Date Reviewed: May 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Sweet overall feel, smoothes out the bumps, a LOT of fun to ride, pretty quiet, Think Cadillac.
Weaknesses:
a bit slow on the climbs, heavy, not for the weak of lung or leg. Wish they would have ditched the STX front der.
Similar Products Used:
None similar - just hardtails before this one.
Bike Setup:
swapped out; seat to Titec, bars - Titec Hell bent, grips, cranks - RF, bb - xt, soon to upgrade front der.
Bottom Line:
It's a Cadillac on the trail. Don't race it. Take it on really long rides and smile often. Don't enter hill climbs. Take it down trails, stairs, drops and smile. Bike's are fun, remember? Don't count grams or even pounds. Go on a diet if you want to lose any weight then take this bike out for a long ride. Only time will tell as far as reliability goes. You don't have to muscle it around much, just ride over junk, it speed wheelies good, don't try to bunnyhop big stuff - it's heavy. Think '78 Eldorado. Comfort. I wish it had fins. I'm only going four burners cause the stock component spec could have been a little better and they could've shaved a little more weight out of her.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Tucker
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: May 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Down-hill
Weaknesses:
Up-hill
Similar Products Used:
GF- Fun Hog Z0, Cannondale Raven, Trek Y11
Bike Setup:
Hayes Disk
Bottom Line:
Technically this bike is excellent, the i-drive works and the Marzocchi Z3 is plush beyond description. Unfortunately the weight is a major drawback for XC riding. The handling is excellent and the geometry worked for me. As good as this bike is, I have recently traded it in on a Cannondale F5000 which is 11 pounds lighter.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ty
a Weekend Warrior
from Montana Date Reviewed: May 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
figure 8
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
His bike is not a piece but it ride so good any mech. that think im wrong is stuck in the past of RST and LTS the idrive is built to the bone and the front shock has so much travel you could kill kittens with it, i own one and the ride is the best i have ever tried. the compon. are matched to the bike well
Weaknesses:
WHAT weaknesses hahaha look at it what you think that it isn't going to work ahaha it is heavy. but it has a great feel and it screams down hill.
Similar Products Used:
fishers and LTS homegrow
Bike Setup:
cut the bars down to make it through tight spots and go a small frame. i put lizard skins on the front and rear shock. that is very important.
Bottom Line:
i waited 2 year before i when out and bought a new full suspension. so when i did i want it to be the best. i just wish there was a 6 six rating !!!
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Submitted by
zchar
a Cross-Country Rider
from Germany Date Reviewed: April 26, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike. Among some of the best bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Cross-Country Rider
from manchester nh Date Reviewed: April 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Similar Products Used:
specialized, gary fisher,trek,klein,k2/proflex,schwinn
Bike Setup:
just added bar ends and 747 pedals
Bottom Line:
people either love or hate this bike. I love it heres why- it's FUN!!!! its not the lightest or the fastest climber(on smooth trails anyway) its super plush but still pedals really well. big mistakes on big terrain are often soaked up by the excellent 'zoke with its long travel and a nicely active fox on the rear. If you are worried about the i-drive don't be. GT has too much at stake in this design and it's reputation to sell you crap. If you are racing or a gram counting dork this bike aint for you. If you want to have a blast on a reasonably priced bike this is the ticket
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAy
a Weekend Warrior
from Lethbridge, Alberta Date Reviewed: April 4, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Koocanusa Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Overall Feel is good, the Z3 is super plush, willingto take the big hit's... The Air in the rear, is an overall different feel from the coil over. Very adjustable I like it alittle stiff to take the drop.
Weaknesses:
Only a few problems... the main spanner nut fell off on one of the first rides, fixed that.. bearrings came out of the QR20 hub during transportation to the riding grounds.... not a big deal....
Similar Products Used:
XCR 3000
Bottom Line:
overall a great bike for the ride
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Flathead, MT Date Reviewed: March 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The idrive suspension is absolutely plush and fun when flying down potholed, muddy roads and trails. I can take a straight line, whereas my brother-in-law on a cannondale hardtail has to swerve all over. I didn't believe the GT hype but am now convinced. The fox vanilla locked up (now replaced), turning the bike into a hardtail. The feedback to the pedals was the first thing I noticed, then the jarring in my back and butt. I'm sold on the idrive for all around fun riding.
Weaknesses:
WTB tires are terrible in mud,snow,& pavement, but give some confidence on downhillsIf you ride with friends on hardtails they are going to be waiting for you at the top. LX brakes were weak and noisy. Traded straight across for Avid 25's, much better. LX cranks are ugly and the decals are scratching off already, ordered bontrager race lites.
Similar Products Used:
I test rode some fishers, & GT's. I also compared specs and prices on KLein, Jamis, Rocky Mountain, Kona, & Trek. Old bike was a rockhopper rigid
Bike Setup:
switched pedals to 636's switched bar to black bontrager crow bar upped front derail to xt need to change tires added fish stix bar ends
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike for having fun. It is a true fun hog, not a racing bike. When cruising around by myself it can't be beat. But it's not great for keeping up with friends on high end hardtails. I couldn't have done better for $1700 except I have to buy a hardtail also. Oh well. There may be a better all around bike, but not for what I do.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
vince
a downhiller
from pdx Date Reviewed: March 3, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have been riding various full susp. bikes for the last 9 years, and I have to say this one is one of the best. It is however not related to the bike the GT hypesters describe in their ad copy. It handles the best out of all the bikes I've ridden. I would suppose that this is from the weight being carried very low in the frame. To all reviewers that think this bike is just for ski lifts and free riding, get some legs.
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Submitted by
Matt
a cross-country rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: March 2, 1999
Bottom Line:
I'm kinda' surprised. I went to try this bike because I thought, GT makes a great line of FS bikes.(LTS-STS series)If they are shelving it's old line in favor of I-Drive, than it's got to be something special. I'm kinda' disapointed. I didn't care about the weight. I didn't care about the complexity. I was just surprised that it didn't ride very nicely. It seems to be a case of over engeneering for marketing sake.
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Submitted by
Bruce
a weekend warrior
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: February 28, 1999
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike about 2 months ago and have gotten in about five or six rides. I made the purchase because this bike just felt the best out of all the others I rode. The bike climbs well, though I don't think it meets the claims of running one or two gears higher. It also feels incredible stable to me, especially in the air. I really feel in control.I made a few upgrades, I upgraded to full XT except for the addition of an SRAM ESP 9.0 shifter set and rear derailleur. Also changed the cogset to a 12-34. Like Pat, I think the tires are lowsy in the mud and the suspension needs to be set up softer than is recommended. I am also having a considerable degradation in the glossyness of the paint on the top bar way earlier than I should have. This concerns me a bit.Overall, I love the bike. It's fun and comfortable. I would have given 5 out of 5 except for the paint issue. So, it gets a 4.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat KLassen
a weekend warrior
from Kelowna, B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: February 23, 1999
Bottom Line:
I own a bike shop and have the luck to ride allot of new full suspension mtbs. In the past I have riden FSRs LTSs and many other designs. I feel that the I-Drive design works as well as any bike I have riden. It gives a very controledclimb and a very plush descent. I would sent the rear shock up a little softer than the manufacters speck for the ultimate rike for this bike. My only complaint is the WTB tires. They suck bad in the mud of early season riding. I switched my tires to IRC Kugo 2.35 front and the El Gato 2.25 rear and am enjoying these tires. If you need any further info on this bike or any other full suspension mtbs don't hesitate to e-mail me
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike the Strike
a weekend warrior
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: January 17, 1999
Bottom Line:
Half-day test ride on intermediate desert single tracks showed this to be very capable machine. Especially impressed by the new Bombers - well worth the weight if you have to eat boulders. The I drive worked as advertised with very little bob. I agree with the factory that I could keep one gear higher in some places (not consistently, but I held a gear on short uphills where I'd changed down before) - however, two is stretching it a bit! Negatives - a bit on the heavy side and that I drive sure looks like a complicated gizmo and I'm leery of its long-term durability. I'd give it 4 and a half, but adding an extra half for thier design originality to give it 5.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a
from Nantucket Island Mass Date Reviewed: January 2, 1999
Bottom Line:
Don't really know what I am, just like to ride. It amazes me how much everyone has rated this bike when most people are basing their comments on what other people say and also on having the bike for a weekend...etc. Well, like I said, don't know what I am, but I do know what I like and don't like! I've had one of these 2000 since early Oct 98. Had one (if not the first) early ones, as a matter of fact we traced it in the container across the world waiting for it. So I been on it for a while. Lots of good stuff here. And some not so good. I'm about 185 6'2 , I have the large and I'm still adjusting the cockpit. The original seat had to go....my bones and its shape just didn't make it! Wasn't to happy with flat spotted rims, but that could be the dealer. As for the rest its a real solid bike...Climbs excellent..a little bob...but you gotta be looking for it ...haven't yet seen a fs bike that don't! Front end is comfy as is from the factory...waiting for heavier springs for the bomber...not available yet to the consumer..figure that....need 220 lbs air in the fox but it s rated for 300 so whats the big deal? Together the Fox and Marz. give a ride that is really second to none! Handleing is quick and positive, Quick enough to put me in the bushes a few times..got a handle on it now though..Remember I used to have a Trek,.....The componet group has been flawless...probably have about 500 to 600 miles on the bike with little or no adjustment....I know its coming but cable stretch has been almost non existent...and while the sprockets seem to be wearing a little faster than I expected, (what do you want? I live in a REAL sany place with lots of water) they will do. The I drive does what itdoes. It works just fine, no squeals burps or rebuilds..what can I say. All in all this has been a real nice ride for me . I'm having a ball on a bike that to this point don't break! Ain't that what its all about? I'll check back in another 6months with an update.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Çaðrý Eröge
a downhiller
from Turkey Date Reviewed: December 30, 1998
Bottom Line:
I think it is the best cross country bike.Although it's heavy,it climbs better than my hardtail Giant Atx 875.The combination of front and rear suspension impressed me.It combines excellent.To sum up,if you decide to buy a new cross country bike,it will be the best for you
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a downhiller
from Alabama Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
This new 99 GT is great. One of my friends got one for christmas, and a few days later he and I went riding. I ride a 98 GT LTS 2000 DS. He told me to ride his bike and see how i like it. I started riding it and instantly fell in love. The bike handled so much better than my 98 GT, much less, although a x-country designed bike, it felt much plusher in terms of travel than my dual sport bike. I really loved this new GT and wish i wouldn't have bought my 98!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a cross-country rider
from Virginia Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
I heard from a friend that the new GT XCR series bikes were awesome. I had heard differently from many other people and reviews, so i decided to check it out for myself. I went to the local bike shop to test ride one of the new XCR Series. The salesperson suggested the XCR 2000. I looked over the bike and was amazed! The salesperson suggested that I ride the bike around the store parking lot and see what I think about it. He helped me out the door with the bike and I went for a spin. The bike rode awesome. The suspension was so soft and plush. After riding for a couple minutes I proceeded into the store where the salesperson explained the i-drive system to me. I was amazed in how mar GT had taken bicycle technology. I give this bike 5 chilis
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Austin
a racer
from Wyoming Date Reviewed: December 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
I went to my local bike store to test some of the new 99 full suspension bikes. The salesguy insisted that i test ride the new XCR 2000. i took the bike out back for a spin and instaltly fell in love. The bike had a great fell to it. I was really impressed. I look foward to purchasing one of these new bikes myself.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin King
a cross-country rider
from Tennessee Date Reviewed: December 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
This is a sweet new bike from GT. I was really impressed with the new i-drive system. It completely eliminated the bobbing effect on the uphill climbs. The combination of front and rear suspension really impressed me. The ride tune system was really easy to figure out and almost fool-proof. This is a great riding bike that really impressed me. 5 chilis to GT and it's XCR series
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a weekend warrior
from Tennessee Date Reviewed: December 26, 1998
Bottom Line:
I just recieved my new GT XCR-2000 for Christmas. The bike is sweet! I have to admit that is just a slight bit heavy, but this makes it perfect for the type of riding i do. The bike is extremely plush and the new Marzocci/GT QR-20 system is increddible! The plush Marzocci fork and the new FOX Vanilla Float R rear air shock make a great combination. As for the new i-drive system, it makes all the bikes in it's class look terrible. The i-drive completely eliminates the pogo effect on the up hills. The bike is great for all conditions. Since we were fortunate here in Nashville and reveived a large amount of ICE not just snow a couple days before Christmas, i decided to buy some studded tires which i purchased from the local bike store. The bike was sweet and rode great in the ice. Although this bike was designed by GT to be a X-country bike, the XCR 2000 and 1000 are going to end up as more like Freeride bikes with their plush travel and air shocks while the 3000 and 4000 will remain more the x-country bike. A great thanks to all those at GT who helped design and create these new i-drive bikes. This bike is certainly my choice for a dual suspension bike around $2000, putting Trek's VRX, Schwinn's S Carbon bikes, and Marin's b-17 far behind.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bicky
a cross-country rider
from montana Date Reviewed: December 26, 1998
Bottom Line:
I test rode one at a local bike shop. The shop SALESMAN told me that it out accelerated and maintained pedaling speed better than any other full suspension bike. He was very insistant that I ride it. Don't beleive the hype, the promo for this bike is a bunch of bullsheet. It felt heavy and just plain funky. Any bike that feels like this would suck ascending in real mountain country. It is in the mold of a free-ride performance fads, just two years after the fact. I have to admit that it is very plush. If you live and ride in flat country or if you get shuttled to the top of hills just for the ride down, than this might,maybe, but probably not the bike for you. For those of us that live for the ride up a mountain equaly as the ride down, there are better FS bikes out there.(see Specialized FSR & FSR-XC)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a racer
from NJ Date Reviewed: December 22, 1998
Bottom Line:
I picked the XCR 2000 over the Klien Mantra and Trek Y bikes because i thought it was more geared to x-country riding/racing. Ahh, not exactly. It's heavy weight and long travel front and rear are more suited to downhill, but one could make do if they climb seated or their style of riding is such that they can isolation pedal when standing to make the fork not activate as much as it wants to. There is very minimal rear suspention bobbing when sprinting or standind but dont worry, the fork does enough of that for both of them. Absolutely no problem with not being able to shift the front derailer when rear susp. is activated as others have. There is no rear lockout when standing or climbing out of the saddle but there is minimal lockout under breaking, but not enough to complain about. And yes, there is some truth to what some others have said that this bike is for all day comfort... save your hardtail for the races, or in my case lay out another few grand for a Trek Y. It gets 4 flaming turds cause its a great bike, just not what its advertised as.Sorry about the ambivilant review but my mind isnt doing to great cause i havent been on the trail in 2 day.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a weekend warrior
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: December 20, 1998
Bottom Line:
As a mechanic this bike is a bit on the weird side with the problems that are introduced from the rotational BB. We (Family Cycling) haven't had any of these XCRs come back with the dreaded creaking described by another shop. Another thing of concern from the bench is the high pressure needed in the fow vanilla shock for a larger rider. I only weigh 180lbs and the rear still was soggy at around 250 psi in the shock. As a rider(I don't own one) this bike has freeride written all over it. The suspension is super plush and the QR20 is a rad version of the bomber forks. This is a great bike for those of us who like to go down the hills and just tolerate the hills for just that reason. This isn't a climbing machine as it is marketed. It is a good freeride bike with downhill in mind.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ada Mah
a cross-country rider
from Kamloops, BC Date Reviewed: November 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
Listen up people. The front front shifting is disgusting because the crank moves from the front derailleur, bobs when in the middle ring, and that I-drive system is a bearing/pivot disaster waiting to happen. Being a bike mechanic I've had to service two of them already because the pivot started squeaking and just plain not working because of oine stream crossing and a muddy trail. GT, put some of the money from your advertising budget to good use and make a design that is functional in the long run!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a cross-country rider
from IN Date Reviewed: November 22, 1998
Bottom Line:
Just rode this bike today. Have been riding Stumpjumper M2 Pro. This is a nice SMOOTH ride. What makes this bike is the Z3 Marzocchi w/4 travel. So much more superior to RS Judy XC. Climbs well, turns well, rear shock works well. Would be nice if the compnents were XT grade. This bike weighs 30 lbs. The bike gets 4 stars, Marzocchi Z3 gets 5 stars plus!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al Davison
a cross-country rider
from Athens, GA Date Reviewed: November 16, 1998
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! It climbs better than my hardtail. No bobbing except when standing. I rarely stand while climbing so, it's no big thang. Decents are a dream! I don't get any stiffening of the rear suspension under braking with those superb new V-brakes. The 9-speed rear works flawlessly. A few minor problems with upshifting on the front but, I think that's an adjustment thing. I weigh about 190 so, I need some heavier springs on the front for those butter-smooth 'zokes to work the way God intended them. Buy this bike!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich Richardson
a cross-country rider
from Avon, Colorado Date Reviewed: November 16, 1998
Bottom Line:
I cannot believe all the marketing hype brought up by GT on this bike. You can ride two gears higher, no bobbing ect. It flat out does not work. I assume because it is a modified URT design no matter what they say. I tried to love this bike but I can't. What pisses the hell outa me is the Marketing hype. It bobs, it stiffens...what else can i say?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeremy
a cross-country rider
from pennsylvania Date Reviewed: November 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
don't own one even though i work in a bike shop. the reason i don't own one is because the front shifting is sort of sketchy why you might ask. because the crank moves from the front derailleur (not good) and that two gear higher thing. whomever said that must have quads like ......well i don't know they were just a little off that i do know. but this is a great bike anyhow the best suspension setup i've ever seen great mix of goodies too
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a weekend warrior
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: November 2, 1998
Bottom Line:
After reading all the hype surrounding the new i-drive system I had to try the latest demo bike at my LBS. This bike is the greatest. The new z3 lite Bomber front end combined with Fox Vanilla rear, LX drivetrain and LX brakes and I was off up and down the local trails. No tail bob due to the i-drive system(it really does work),rode like it was on rails thought all the twisty bits and plunged down hills like there was no tomorrow. Try and keep me off it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
s rhodes
a cross-country rider
from Moreno Valley, CA Date Reviewed: November 1, 1998
Bottom Line:
As a cross country racing bike, its too heavy. But as an all day ride, this bike is as good as it gets. Took it to Moab the first weekend, perfect for the technical and rough terrain, rode the Santa Ana River Trail last week, the perfect bike for that too. Save the hardtail for the races, but ride the XCR everywhere else.The ride is cadillac all the way, ride as far as you want.
$ 1799.99
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