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Submitted by
dangJustin
a Cross Country Rider
from Northridge, CA
Date Reviewed: April 15, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | anywhere with dirt | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle World | | Strengths: | good beater that you can just beat the hell out of. great for a first full suspension bike | | Weaknesses: | no lock out capabilities, everytime the rear shock compresses, the shift cables lag causing the bike to mis-shift. been through 2 rear derailers, no travel, heavy flippin bike, idrive system kinda sucks. and the bike is a pain to repair sometimes | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock other than a pair of spd's | | Bottom Line: | good for a first time full suspension rider, not so good for an all mountain rider. i've had the bike for 8 years now and i'm finally steppin up to something better. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
viperBSG
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicopee,MA,U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | My Pop's Back Yard.(124 Achers of wood) | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Strengths: | Dude! It's a GT.
Seriously.It's a battleship on wheels.Solid (Tough).Very smooth ride.But like others have said.The faSTER YOU GO THE BETTER IT HANDLES.It almost seems it tracks itself and your along for the ride.And I'm close to 300lbs. | | Weaknesses: | Can Someone say Suntour!It's a Battleship on wheels.(Heavy as Hell!!) | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Took off the Suntour Crank& RST22 Rear Shock.I upgraded to a Fox Vanilla Rear Shock(NOT a VAN R) & a Race Face Deus XC w/ a Shimano M770 XT Drivetrain.The Judy TT is great for urban rides.So I upgraded to a Argyle. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great frame.Need's alot of upgrades.Matters on if you want to make a bike or just ride one.Seems the drivetrain skips alot Had the Rear Derailler adjusted.Still happened.Till I changed the SUNTOUR CRANK.(Piece of trash!)Thing is a beast know.I LOVE GT MTB's. The worlds best! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vaughan Pollock
a Racer
from REGINA
Date Reviewed: October 23, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | bunny hills...lol | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Dutch Cycle | | Strengths: | ITS THE PERFORMANCE IT GIVES FOR WHATEVER I'M RIPPIN' UP! | | Weaknesses: | (LOTS OF MOVING PARTS)
( AND HARD TO FIND)
| | Similar Products Used: | THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A GT-IDRIVE<<< | | Bike Setup: | EASTON BARS, ROCKY STEM, 06' 888'S FORKS,FOX FLOAT,SHIMANO DRIVE-TRAIN (27 GEARS)...PROTECTED BY ENVY(CRANK BASHER), ROLLING ON BLUE DRAGONS AND ORANGE SUNRIMS AND BLTS FOR NIGHT RIDING. | | Bottom Line: | IT FEELS LIKE IM ON A 2 WHEELED MACHINE RIDING ON A CLOUD. WETHER I GO UP OR DOWN,IVE GOT GT TECHNOLOGY TO MAINTAIN THE REAR WHEEL STICKING TO THE GROUND. THE IDRIVE KEEPS YOUR CHAIN WITH THE PACE, NOT WITH THE SUSPENSION. IN OTHER WORDS WHEN YOUR SUSPENSION IS BOBBING, YOUR DRIVE-TRAIN IS SITTING AT THE SAME TENSION AS ALWAYS BEING ABLE TO KEEP UP YOUR SPEED AND GO FASTER! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vaughan Pollock
a Racer
from Regina,sask,canada
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | the bunny hills,...lol | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | dutch cycle | | Strengths: | it really performs for me,being 150pounds. | | Weaknesses: | i cannot find replacement parts,like the deralleur hanger. | | Bike Setup: | marzocci dirt jam forks,rocky mnt.stem,easton bars,shimano all around,kona pedals,down hill tires on,weighin in 42 pouNDS
| | Bottom Line: | I CANT FIND A DERALLIEUR HANGER,IT PISSES ME OFF GAD DAMMIT
AND SOME FAT ASS SAT ON MY BIKE AND BLEW THE REAR SHOCK,SO NOW im out of a bike till the bike shop gets me a shock for my bike witch has to specified for my frame>
other wise this is the best bike ever!!!!!!!!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Tierney
a Weekend Warrior
from United Kingdom
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1465.00 | | Purchased At: | cycleworld uk | | Strengths: | First full suspension bike i`ve owned(old roady)although not the lightest bike around at the time was and has done what i have always wanted to do and thats treat it rough throw it about and still going strong now good groupset albeit for mixing suntour with shimano | | Weaknesses: | had suntour chainset suntour block and rest was shimano tried changing up on its own. Ditched suntour for all shimano no more problems, slightly heavy but lighter than others, bb had to be changed first climb as it clicked like mad, shop sorted, damaged replaced foc. Rear suspension had been fitted upside down - typical assembly line error - get retrained to do it properly!!! | | Similar Products Used: | marin | | Bike Setup: | shimano deore throughout, both wheels changed to deore hubs on sun ds1-xc rims ( disc specific) (ebay brand new never been put on a bike) shimano front and rear hydraulic disc brakes shimano deore chainset ( replaced naff suntour ) rest is bulk standard front sus etc | | Bottom Line: | As stated stock bike wasn`t lightest around few things had to be altered ditched wheels, brakes for full hydraulic disc setup, changed over what i call inferior low end comps and now enjoy riding it loads more than when i purchased it new would buy another one tomorrow if needed to | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brent
a Weekend Warrior
from Stevens Point, WI USA
Date Reviewed: April 24, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$340.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | Awesome I-drive suspension design--doesn't slow you down when pedaling. L frame fits my 6'2" body like a glove. Brakes, shifters and drivetrain components are decent for the money--will be upgraded eventually. | | Weaknesses: | A tad heavy--which you'd expect with this component level. The seat is okay, Judy TT shock works well, but is heavy. RST shock looks out of place on this bike. Crank and headset need to go. | | Similar Products Used: | '00 GT Rebound | | Bike Setup: | Ti bar ends, crank brothers egg beater clipless pedals, hoping to add a Nolleen mega air front fork. The rest is completely stock. | | Bottom Line: | I don't care what anyone else has said . . . for the money, you can't go wrong with this bike. At the time 2 years ago, there was a glut of GTs on eBay, and I had good timing in purchasing this one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mika Arasola
a Cross Country Rider
from Helsinki, Finland
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Great ride, superb value for money. | | Weaknesses: | It's heavy | | Similar Products Used: | Gt zaskar, Klein Palomino | | Bike Setup: | xt rear dereileur, lx cranks, manitou black comp 100mm fork, fox vanilla rc shock. | | Bottom Line: | For the money you can't really get anything that compares. It's not the lightest bike available, but once you gather some speed it handles like a dream. The harder you push it the smoother it rolls.
It really needs a 100mm fork in the front though... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
aus10
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | cycle spectrum | | Strengths: | rides good | | Weaknesses: | can crack above the bottom bracket (or Idrive system) which causes the Idrive to unscrew itself by a regular foward pedal motion...gt doesn't honor a warranty on this bike anymore because they are now owned by Pacific | | Similar Products Used: | alot | | Bike Setup: | it's craccked | | Bottom Line: | I rode this bike for a good two years, now it is stripped down to the frame only and sitting in my garage. I found the hairline crack in a weld and the crack went down to the Idrive system. The bike is useless now. GT/Pacific said I could buy a New frame for 400 dollars, but I don't think I should have to pay that much again for someting that can crack in a place that makes the frame useless | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kristian Jenner
a Cross Country Rider
from Brighton, England
Date Reviewed: January 18, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | south downs way | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | bonthronebikes.co.uk | | Strengths: | Strong frame. Lasted through the winter. Deore equiptment, the rockshox juddy tt is alright as for what the bike is designd for it does well | | Weaknesses: | suntour cranks, mine just dont stop wobling! Rims strong but when pushed do buckle | | Similar Products Used: | GT Zasca race (superb) Karakaram (good) | | Bike Setup: | as new, but with Shimano S.Pu.D's | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price, good overall suspencion, good at climbing, 4.6 inches of travel very useful around the south downs!! Great for beginner-expirienced not sutable for XC racing or Downhill. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
austin
a Cross Country Rider
from houston
Date Reviewed: November 13, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1000000.00 | | Purchased At: | cyclespectrum | | Strengths: | strong frame! for a 145lb rider | | Weaknesses: | components need replacing rapidly
***plastic part that holds the rearDERAILLURE wire in place split in half from normal use(i ride this thing hard)
**Hard to find rearderaillure hangars >:( | | Similar Products Used: | specialized hardtail | | Bike Setup: | foxFloat 100rfork, Xtr deraillures brakes and shifters deore crank, thompson Seatpost, mavic517 xtrHUBS, Easton Stem and handlebar setup...eggbeaters, King headset | | Bottom Line: | THE FASTER U GO THE SMOOTHER IT GETS!!!!!
***plastic part that holds the rearDERAILLURE wire in place split in half from normal use(i ride this thing hard)
**Hard to find rearderaillure hangars >:(
*Rims don't last long...im Buying a FreeRide or a Downhill Rim for the rear wheel, the 517 is strong but Not THAT Strong, already needs replacing by 9 months
I've ridden 1,700 miles on her, mostly trail, still as strong as the day i bought her W/ all those upgrades of course, The 5.0 is a good buy...it's a good, strong, entrylevel soft tail that allows room for upgrades, once the cheap parts wear out.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyson Cornwell
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft.Collins CO.
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | lowry state park | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | adventure cycling | | Strengths: | great climber stiff frame light too | | Weaknesses: | pogo stick rear suspension wheels and hubs not very imressive good beginner front forks | | Similar Products Used: | this GT is my first full suspension bike i have ever owned | | Bike Setup: | kujo dh tires and xt rear deraillur bontager cranks bontager bottom bracket pro max brakes | | Bottom Line: | great bike for long rides -tough as nails took it off a couple two or three foot drops and nothing snapped and im about 165 6ft tall overall good first full suspension bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J. Kozel
a Cross Country Rider
from Truro, NS, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The Up&Dn on Dirt and Rock | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Great value!
i-Drive system -- sit through most of it pedalling.
Good geometry and dimensions XL (191cm / 6'3"), strong frame -- 100kg / 220lb sometimes PLUS ;)
Excellent on level, very good downhill and good uphill without rear lockout
Great looks with or without fenders. | | Weaknesses: | Is GT out of business? Can one get i-Drive spares? Components (fork, rear shock) are what you paid for :(
Needs an extra care for the i-Drive. | | Similar Products Used: | I've been riding on the dirt for 1/4 century ...
Cyclocross in 70's ... MTB today | | Bike Setup: | Avid disk on front, Alex rims, LX rear derailleur AND
Cloud Nine in the mail and Psylo race on order. | | Bottom Line: | Great frame and O.K. components for entry level price.
If you want a good full suspension bike now and a great one later (replace the weak components as they break or as you can afford them), go for it!!! I did and still love it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
stealzero
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver CO USA
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Fred's Lunch - Vail | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Pedlar - Littleton | | Strengths: | Great frame, very tough and rigid. The i-Drive system works great on the downhill. Very smooth. Very good looking bike. I got the matte black w/ silver logos, super kewl! | | Weaknesses: | The Judy TT that it came with had to go right away. The rear derailleur is a bit fickel. Had to switch to XT. The stock rims are not worth their weight in tin. | | Similar Products Used: | Stumpjumper FSR | | Bike Setup: | Shimano XT derailleurs, XT brakes, deore levers, RS Judy 100 '99 with firm kit. Mavic 217 rims. I love it!!! | | Bottom Line: | Buy this bike. I love GT and hope that they come back strong. The bike is a great ride and can be set up for any rider wanting a full squishy. Gt makes a superior product, and the i-Drive system just adds to that. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake Ashley
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 24, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Bowl and pitcher (Riverside st park) | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Spoke n' Sport in Spokane, WA | | Strengths: | Awsome look, familure componets (rock shox, fox coil, shimano deore), and I-DRIVE!!! | | Weaknesses: | My first frame bent being one of twenty whose frame was poured at the wronge temp (it was replaced after waiting 6 months for a 2002 i-drive 4.0) | | Similar Products Used: | GT Agressor 3.0 | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2001 5.0 flat black with a 2002 red 4.0 frame | | Bottom Line: | I'm glad my bike dealer still does business with GT. makes for great trail riding. Cheap enough for a novice, good enough quality for a pro. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George
a Weekend Warrior
from Rochester, NY
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Tryon Helmet-Craker Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$479.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo.com | | Strengths: | Great Bike! I've never had it bottom out (I weigh 170 lbs). I've had it up to 40 mph downhill on a rocky dirt road and it handled well. Great in the uphills even without a lockout. The i-Drive does everything they say it does; I can shift going uphill without chain-jumping without a lock-out. And it just looks cool from an engineering elegance point of view. Great first full-suspension bike. I like the Velocirapter tires, too; none of this no-name-tire stuff. | | Weaknesses: | I wish it had all Deore components instead of a suntour crank, but it all works fine and what do I expect for $479. That's what upgrades are for... | | Similar Products Used: | GT Tequesta | | Bike Setup: | Stock (Judy TT, RST-22, Deore derailer...) | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great; I have used it for 250 miles/ 3 months and have had no problems with it. I haven't jumped more than 12" off of the ground, though, but I have taken it downhill fast and had no problems, even hitting larger rocks at medium speed was okay. I originally wanted to buy it to upgrade it (it was a steal at $479), but I have decided to hold off on the upgrades because everything *even the suntour crank* works fine. I guess if you were to take 6 foot cliffs with this thing you might want a better front fork. I'll just have to try harder to break this bike so I can justify the newer components, but it's still in one piece. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john S
a Weekend Warrior
from SARASOTA, FL USA
Date Reviewed: May 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | carter road lakeland fl. | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | local bike shop | | Strengths: | it was the last gt bike in the shop since the gt breakup,they were gonna part it out,,it was still in the box.I am gonna up grade a lot on it but for the money i could 'nt go wrong. lots of wtb parts on bike,tires, rims ,headset. gt always had nice frames,,cheeper components for their asking price | | Weaknesses: | no warranty??? cheep wheels,odd seat post size,cheeper crank set,suntour 252 riveted chain rings. | | Similar Products Used: | bike i ride now:older gt palamar(up graded)
bikes i looked at before gt: specialized rockhopper a1 fsrxc,giant rainer,giant iguna,giant warp ds3 | | Bike Setup: | stock now,plan to put deore disc wheel set with avid disc brakes, lx cranks,judy sl air 100mm fork | | Bottom Line: | i have always loved the gt products and will be very sorry to see them turn into wal-mart specials,their web site says they are staying with independent bike shops but the bike shops i have talked to are scared of the new company,(support). still i feel lucky to have gotten one of the last nice gt rides for a really good price!! (wouldent have bought it for list 899.99.... but for 400.00 who wouldent. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
austin
a Cross Country Rider
from houston(downtown)
Date Reviewed: May 17, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | bikeshop | | Strengths: | -strong frame
-good entry level components
-the faster you go the smoother it gets | | Weaknesses: | -components needed replacing rapidly
-Gt is no longer carried anywhere
-IT IS IMPOSSOBLE TO FIND ANY SPARE REAR DERAILLURE HANGARS | | Bike Setup: | ID 5.0 Deore front deraillure and crank the rest XTR, Easton ea70 stem, Mavic 517red/xtr hubs, T6016 Specialized handlebar | | Bottom Line: | If you can get a better price than i can on this bike, (which you can)BUY IT, but be sure to ask for extra rear deraillure hangars, im going to get some made at a machine shop :P
this bike has a solid design that lets you take mountain biking to the edge. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SGI
a Cross Country Rider
from NJ
Date Reviewed: April 15, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$479.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo ---> $35 to ship | | Strengths: | you're getting an I-drive for cheap. The frame is identical to those on the 1.0 thru 5.0 models. Good mix of entry level parts to keep the price down, and get you on the trails.
Face it, if you only want to spend $500 on a FS bike, you're not going to be getting top of the line components. With this bike, you get the frame. Everything else really needs to be upgraded at some point in time - i.e. when it breaks.
This bike is perfect if you're in need of a new bike but strapped for cash. The possibilities are endless. I've put this bike through a few harsh runs, and it takes more of a beating than i thought it would. Perfect upgrade platform. | | Weaknesses: | wheelset can buckle too soon for anyone's liking. Rear shock isn't good. front shock is adequate for weekend riders.
All this equipment is really a weakness if you do hardcore XC,DH riding. | | Similar Products Used: | first FS bike | | Bike Setup: | GT I-Drive 5.0, Wellgo MG-18 pedals, Weyless DH CNC stem, | | Bottom Line: |
Face it, if you only want to spend $500 on a FS bike, you're not going to be getting top of the line components. With this bike, you get the frame. Everything else really needs to be upgraded at some point in time - i.e. when it breaks.
This bike is perfect if you're in need of a new bike but strapped for cash. The possibilities are endless. I've put this bike through a few harsh runs, and it takes more of a beating than i thought it would. Perfect upgrade platform.
5/5 value rating if you pick it up on closeout. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nanne
a Racer
from Amsterdam-Holland
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Tromm Amsterdam | | Strengths: | For sure the i-drive...i drive this bike every day trough the city from home to work and back and i just FLY trough town.And i am not using the road but i use every inch i can. | | Weaknesses: | Front and rear suspension,brakes and(for non off road use) the tires. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Joshua,Trek Fuel,Specialized Stumpjumper... | | Bike Setup: | Marz.Bomber 2002 fork,Fox Vanilla reardamper,Richey chainwheels,clipless pedals,Bontrager Crowbar,Michelin Dirttrack tires,XT rearhub,sprockets and HG70 chain,XT derraileur rear,LX front,LX shifters,Avid brakes (they are better than the standard fitted V's but i would like to upgrade to disc's)and some other minor things. | | Bottom Line: | I bought the bike after the GT brand was called bankrupt,so i am aware of the guarantee.That's also why the price is so low.Since i am a bike mechanic myself i know what to do if something brakes down.I don't do any xc with it so i think i will enjoy this bike for a long time.
Through town it is amazing smooth and quick,you simple squeez yourself through the traffic using the sidewalks and roads to be as soon as possible from A to B.I did this for a long time with other bikes and even if it feels good the GT is just a little better.The standard trim is poor for XC and maybe you think that for town use it is good enough but after replacing the suspension the bike became even better.And i am a mechanic so i would like to have good stuff.The frame is strong but what really surprised me was the i-drive.I can't discribe how it feels,you got to try that for yourself and feel the difference with other fully's you have been riding.I tried only one time and directly bought the bike...GREAT!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn C
a Racer
from Rochester
Date Reviewed: February 7, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Tryon | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Stout, durable, reliable, inexpensive, flat black. | | Weaknesses: | V-brakes seize when cold. This is one heavy ride. | | Similar Products Used: | Jekyll 900sl | | Bike Setup: | Bone stock | | Bottom Line: | This is a fun bike for the money, one of the best values going right now. I use this bike for winter training so I wanted something durable and cheap. The fact that it weighs about 35 pounds is actually an advantage considering my purpose for this bike. I've ridden this thing in rain, snow, mud - you name it. Squirt some WD40 on the chain and it's always good to go. I literally haven't touched this thing with a wrench except to install the water bottle cages. This bike gives you a great bang to buck ratio, but if you're looking for a lightweight XC racing machine you'll probably want to spend more. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bn
a Cross Country Rider
from mechanicville,ny
Date Reviewed: February 4, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | they're belly up | | Strengths: | looked nice-was a matte black 5.0(ordered january 2001)from my lbs | | Weaknesses: | weak frame ,broke it afer a few short months. GT support was bad before Pacific Cycles took over,now you should just forget any help. | | Similar Products Used: | I was a GT owner for years.but no more.now I own a titus. | | Bike Setup: | psylo sl,grimeca s8,ryhno lites(36#)raceface,titec,fox,tioga
xt | | Bottom Line: | In my opinion,if you own a GT and the frame breaks,it seems noone wants it and they turn their backs.My local gt dealer went belly up when Pacific came into the picture.Spend your hard earned money somewhere else. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Altos HIlls, CA
Date Reviewed: December 17, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Russian Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | The Off Ramp, Mountain View,CA | | Strengths: | Great value, tough frame, the bike geometry fits me very well (XL frame, I'm 6'2.5", 195). Climbs decently for a soft tail. | | Weaknesses: | Components are not that great: front deraileur required a lot of adjustments, wheels are always bending. Also, I get a lot of chain suck, but work on front crank and new chain should help. New shock with the lokcout will be ordered as soon as I get the cash. Oh, and mine weighs in at 33 pounds. | | Bike Setup: | spuds, seat, bar ends | | Bottom Line: | I got this bike because it was a good value to get into a soft tail and I was just getting into dirt ridin'. It has definitely exceeded this expectation. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TRACY H
a Weekend Warrior
from medina oh
Date Reviewed: December 14, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | VULTURES KNOB | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | bikeline | | Strengths: | price, the looks of the black and silver kicks a@#. the i-drive is smooth and dependable. tires grip and throw mud. overall; great bike for the price. | | Weaknesses: | weight is definetly a problem. the recall on the front fork did not help. gt having financial dificulty could be a problem with any future frame problems i have in the future. the cheap components have to be upgraded for sure. i also can a problem with rear cassette and the chain. | | Similar Products Used: | cannondale road bile, schwinn hard tail | | Bike Setup: | stock with few upgrades. | | Bottom Line: | great bike for the price. a consumer looking at this bike should look at spending alittle more and get a better bike. alot of small manufactures are putting together some nice bikes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver,Colorado
Date Reviewed: November 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Colorado Trail/ Matthews Winter's Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$812.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Great bike if you don't have a lot of money to spend, but want a bike that is good for xc and freeriding. Climbs well, the I-drive system is nice. Good and sturdy. Can be upgraded to a 2.0 or even a 1.0 | | Weaknesses: | Some of the components suck. I replaced my deraileurs and pedals and plan to do more upgrading. A little heavy but if you upgrade components weight will drop. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fischer Hoo Koo E Koo, GT agressor, other hardtails. | | Bike Setup: | Everything the same except now XTR deraileurs and Time ATAC pedals. | | Bottom Line: | Good bike for Money, versatile and upgradeable. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Vanni
a Weekend Warrior
from Simi Valley
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Valley Bicycles | | Strengths: | I-Drive works wonders, Smooth shifting componets, Very quiet to ride, Tires stick in the dirt well, | | Weaknesses: | V-brakes weak under heavey braking, Seat uncomfortable, | | Bike Setup: | All stock | | Bottom Line: | You can't get a better product for the money spent. Bike is a little heavy but it makes for a good ride. Will upgrade to disc brakes very soon. The full suspension working with the I-Drive make for awsome climbing, and very controlled downhills. Hitting jumps in high speeds are smooth and effortless. I will upgrade componets as the y break, but overall the bike is great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Nova Scotia
Date Reviewed: November 5, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | HUB CYCLE, Truro, NS | | Strengths: | looks good! i drive, sturdy, handles very well on the whole | | Weaknesses: | Creaky crank, wheels always going out of round which is slowly destroying the rear hub. Better shocks would give a nicer ride, but you get what you pay for. HEAVY, gt getting sold. | | Bike Setup: | Basic, as bought so far, whill upgrade crank though | | Bottom Line: | A great bike that with a few upgrades will put it up there with the more expensive bikes. Nothing broken so far after loads of riding. Worth the price and lots of fun to ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim Burnett
a Weekend Warrior
from Albuquerque New Mexico
Date Reviewed: October 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Sandi Peak Ski Area | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Albuquerque Bicycle Center | | Strengths: | Price, i-drive, frame. Tracks well and is stable at higher speeds. A great starting to mid level full sus. bike. | | Weaknesses: | Some say weight but come on now, the bike is not meant to be a pro level racer, It's only $850. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Hard Rock | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z.5 fork, Answer riser bar, Azonic platform petals, Easton EA50 post, SDG sattelite saddle, Knuklebone bmx grips, Fox rear shock with a mountain speed 800lb spring. | | Bottom Line: | I toatly dig this ride. Sure there are lighter bikes with better components but not for the price. If you are a weight freak lool eleswhere. If you want a fun bike that can take punishment and don't have a couple of grand to drop this is a great bike to consider. I have downhilled, flatlanded, jumped and xc'ed this bike with no problems. I have landed on the seat after numerous big drops with out any seatmast issues. 6'2'" 185lbs. I don't know what others are doing but I have put my bike in many sketchy situations and survived. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
r g
a Downhiller
from leuven
Date Reviewed: October 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | anything more than 20% down | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$870.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bikeshop | | Strengths: | - I-drive
- very good climber
- 4.6 inch rear-travel
- can be used for XC and Freeride sessions
- very stable
- great geometry
| | Weaknesses: | - GT is bankrupt
- don't really trust the seatmast
- ...
| | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR - Gazelle Ultimate FS - | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi DirtJumper fork - flat pedals - shorter stem - Fat Albert 2.35 inch tires - blood from my nose | | Bottom Line: | I've tried a lot of fullies before I bought this one, nothing came close.
I really hope that this I-Drive concept is going to be picked up by some other company, it is a kick-ass concept.
This bike gives me so much confidence and it handles so well.
It's not as heavy as some say and it's a great bike for freeriding (and XC with original setup).
I always keep the seat as low as possible, because I'm afraid that it's going to bend or even snap.
I crash a lot and everything is still working perfect, except for the Judy TT.
It's not a real freeride-bike but it can take a lot of punishment.
The bike in it's original setup is nice for the price.
(You can find'em real cheap now)
Bye bye GT.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Taylor Pack
a Weekend Warrior
from GA
Date Reviewed: October 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | chatahoochi trails | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$648.00 | | Purchased At: | a.j. barnes | | Strengths: | I love the iDrive system, great for climbing and desending hills. | | Weaknesses: | I've gone through two frames in the front but that is partly my fault.The seat kills.Back shock takes some waring in. Pretty heavy | | Similar Products Used: | last bike was a hard tail | | Bike Setup: | idrve system | | Bottom Line: | I am 13 years old and havent been riding long but it is a great bike and I feel very confident on the bike.If I could change 2 things about it I would change the front shocks and seat.This is a great bike for beginers but if You are ganna race with it I dont reccomend it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hector Mendez
a Weekend Warrior
from Orange County, CA
Date Reviewed: September 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Fullerton Loop | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Jax Bicycles | | Strengths: | The i-drive is amazing!
Great price for a competent full-suspension bike.
I love the color (matte black) | | Weaknesses: | The crank set makes a funny squeeking noise.
Kind of heavy, but when you weigh over 200 lbs, it doesn't really matter.
the front velociraptor tire has a dendancy to wash out a bit.
| | Similar Products Used: | this is my first full-suspension bike. | | Bike Setup: | the bike is stock except for the rear derailuer, which i broke. i replaced it with an XT derailuer and it is much better. i also want to upgrade to an XT crankset 'cause that squeeking sound really bothers me know. i also replaced the seat with a Selle Italia Max Pro-flite,(this seat is willie friendly).
i bought 535 clipless pedals, as well as a Conti. Vertical Pro tire for the front. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. i know i will have to replace components as i break them, but is doesn't matter. i will just upgrade them. the frame and the whole i-drive concept really kicks butt. i love to go down hill and to jump over anything i can get at. it makes a riding fun. it's even fun to go up hills cause it climbs well. it's a HOOT!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas Prather
a Weekend Warrior
from Marietta
Date Reviewed: September 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | coloums drive trail 3 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$715.00 | | Purchased At: | aj barns | | Strengths: | great susp. great handling | | Weaknesses: | couold be a little lighter | | Similar Products Used: | gt performer | | Bike Setup: | can not name every thing | | Bottom Line: | all around great bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MYKAL
a Weekend Warrior
from Orlando, Fl. U.S.A
Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything I can shred and protect. | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Castle-David's World Cycle | | Strengths: | Low Price for a FS Bike.
GT I-drive technology full-suspension frame.
A great ride. Killer Downhill Bike.
Looks Tight in Black. | | Weaknesses: | -Cut seat post before you leave store(Dont cut it too short)
-WARNING for guys-Broke seat bracket on second trail ride.
-Broke chain in a month. (I was told by a bike Mech that he had replaced a lot of them on this bike, said stock chains were junk)
-Petals are metal with weak plastic centerpiece.
-Front suspension needs to be upgraded.
-Heavy Bike
*NOTE:Mount for drink cage on back of seat is tight if you have a saddle bag.(It matters if you use the mount for it and how high your seat is)
*NOTE:For those of you who bought the black frame and want to keep the color concept consistant (Like me) it is hard to find some parts in black. Save yourself some time. Do your homework and research parts because the bike shop probably wont have black parts in stock. | | Similar Products Used: | First quality bike worth mentioning, rest of them didnt last 2 months the way I ride. | | Bike Setup: | Mainly stock, preparing for overhaul. | | Bottom Line: | Great beginner Full Suspension Bike.
Keep in mind that you are only buying a quality frame. As for the rest of the bike upgrade as you break.
I-Drive Technology is GT's answer to most of the major the problems that Full suspension bikes have posed since their beginning.
Its a heavy bike but I like it cause it makes me work a little harder, makes me stronger.(Whenever you ride a lighter bike you'll do that much more and then some.)
If you are an experienced rider and got the money you should go with the 2.0- In my opinion,The Alpine green color scheme is sweet and second to the 5.0 Black.
Shred safely and protect our rides. Maintain the terrain.
See ya on the trails!!!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bruce
a Cross Country Rider
from Clifton Park, NY
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Behind the Stables @ Skidmore in Saratoga | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$760.00 | | Purchased At: | Savages (www.savages.ca) ask for Reg | | Strengths: | - Overall Frame Design - The I-Drive really works like they say.
- Climbs very quick
- Very Agile
- Everything else is great for a sub $800 bike.
- Oh did I mention that whole I-Drive thingy really works great? | | Weaknesses: | - Components, but what do you want for under $800 Replace them as they break
- Color - No-one has the black frame, just the blue. It is ok, it is the same frame on the 1.0 so I'll just have it stripped and get some stickers
- Weight, but I know that will come down with lighter/better components besides its a FS it doesn't have to be super-lite
- oh yeah the hubs are loud as hell | | Similar Products Used: | Well none really, just some reading about FS frames. Couple of Hardtails back few years ago | | Bike Setup: | - Pretty much stock cept for a few parts that broke.
- RaceFaceXY post
- XT 11-34 Cassette
- Bar Ends
- Time ATAC's
Soon to add
LX Hollowtech splined crankset (no creaking?), Chris King Headset, some Sun Rhynolite's with XT hubs maybe an XTR Rear Der and some better brakes | | Bottom Line: | Well this is my first FS bike and I have to say that I love it. I can ride things harder and faster. Really quiet cept for the cranks, and the whole I-drive thing works so well. This bike keeps taking everything I throw at it and keeps comming back for more.
Hoping to add a Psylo SL at the end of the season to give a little more travel in the front. I'm bout 200lbs and this thing rides like I weigh 170. Smooths out all the bumps and climbs like hardtail, perhaps even better than some of them.
I'd say that this is the perfect bike for beginers and experienced riders alike. Solid frame and components that work, even if they need to be upgraded as you go. But hey, that is part of the fun, you get to custom design your ride.
You'll prolly see me out on the trails @ Skidmore since they are only 20 min from my apt. I think I'm the only i-drive that I have seen back there. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Westville, Nova Scotia
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | HUB CYCLE TRURO | | Strengths: | looks good, frame seems sound so far and the i drive works well. | | Weaknesses: | RIMS, always out of round, rear shock needs upgrading, heavy. Could use a better rear deraileur. | | Bike Setup: | factory components so far | | Bottom Line: | Good bike for a beginner, easy to upgrade with the quality frame, very few problems so far. My bike has been punished over the past few months. Ill upgrade the rear shock though. Fun to ride. Lots of wipe outs, didnt break anything yet, had to cut the seat post down. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edmundo Soriano
a Cross Country Rider
from Puebla, Puebla, Mexico
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Zapo | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Savages | | Strengths: | Great frame, I drive works very well, very nice looking too. | | Weaknesses: | Wheelsets to fragile, its a little heavy and have poor components, but you get what you pay. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Warp, Specialized Rockhopper FSR, Trek Antelope. | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Mars C fork, Fox Float RC rear shock, Mavic 517 rims, full LX group, SPD-424 pedals and a computer to record my mileage. | | Bottom Line: | Great platform to upgrade, the original wheels needs truing after every ride regardless I´m a light-weight person(120 lbs), I like it so much that I invest some buck$ to convert this frame in a great combination of components resulting into a great bike. It climbs very nice, It descent fast and I can ride it all day without problem. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Niantic, CT
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | bluff point | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Barn | | Strengths: | Price, I-Drive, Full suspension, color matte black, but now I have the Tech Blue/Black that's shown on GT wedsite | | Weaknesses: | Weight, Tires, Front Derailleur, needs to be upgraded | | Bottom Line: | I only used Hardtails and this was my first full suspension bike. I had this bike over 7 months and the frame started cracking about 1 inch from the rear shock just 2 weeks ago. The place I got from said that GT rep. had to look at the bike and see what cause it. They are willing to replace the frame but to remove all the parts over the new frame was coming from my pocket. And I wouldn't see the new frame for a month or more..... The place I got it was nice by giving me one of his frames form the floor to have and I had to give him $120.00 to do that. Now I will get it back this week. I think that is better than waiting 5 weeks. I hope this one will last a little longer. But you always get what you pay for. So next time I'll spend more! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Raymond
a Weekend Warrior
from Destrehan,LA USA
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Hooper Park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | East Bank Scwhinn | | Strengths: | I-Drive Technology, Fork, Rear Derailler | | Weaknesses: | RIMS!! SEATPOST!!(Seat post bracket broke twice) Deore Front Derailler!!(Replaced for defect) | | Similar Products Used: | 1999 GT Timberline Hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Deore shifters,fr and rr deraillers, upgrade Syncros Rims, seat post, and XT brakes. Selle Itailia Max Flight seat. | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks for the price. Great on downhills(about 35 MPH at Fruit Loops in MS.) and the tail sticks on climbs. The matte black color is attractive. A few upgrades it could be right up with the I-drive 3.0 and 2.0. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MIKE
a Racer
from Niagara Falls N.Y.
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Short hills | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$815.00 | | Purchased At: | Johnny's Bike shop | | Strengths: | Solid Frame, easy to upgrade. | | Weaknesses: | a little heavy | | Similar Products Used: | trek Y 3 | | Bike Setup: | 2001 judy SL,Spins,Cane Creek AD-10 rear shock,Race Face cranks and rings,Titec carbon fiber seatpost and ti handlebar,XTR rear derailer and XTR v-brakes,Sram 7.0 brake levers and Rocket twist shifters, Kore forged stem.Custom designed VIPER decals | | Bottom Line: | I liked the color of the frame,and just built it up.I took all the parts off and upgrade my dad's Y3 with the parts. So far i think my bike kicks A$$,weighed in at 28lbs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Stanz
a Cross Country Rider
from Lima Ohio USA
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Full suspension frame,color,price. | | Weaknesses: | Weight,cheap componets,tires | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Y-frame,specialized fsr. | | Bike Setup: | Petals,seat post. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is for posers, who don't have the money for a
Xcr 1.0. This bike almost seriously injured me when the seat mount snapped off and almost sodimized me! This
bike is one of heaviest things I've ever ridden. On uphills
I thought I was dragging a boat anchor with me. The bottom line is this bike sucks.I should have bought a hardtail
for a grand with decent components and a decent weight.If you've heard the advice "DON'T BUY A $1000.00 SUSPENSION BIKE" it's true. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a Weekend Warrior
from Marietta, GA
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Blankets Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$899.00 | | Purchased At: | AJ Barnes Bicycle Emporium | | Strengths: | Looks (I got the Black and silver model), I-Drive, price and value | | Weaknesses: | Had a recall on the front fork (Rockshox Judy TT)and also a problem with the rear cassette (switching between 8th and 9th gear) | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose/MGX-Full suspension bike that I purchased at Costco for $250 to see if I would get into the sport. | | Bike Setup: | Standard | | Bottom Line: | This is my first real mountainbike. I am still relatively new to the sport (been doing it about a year and a half). For someone that does not race and is not looking to do anything super extreme this is a great bike. The I-Drive really works, there is a huge difference between riding the GT and riding the cheap Mongoose that I started on. As far as the components go, they are adequate but not the best out there, but what do you want for $900?- I think it's a great value. As things break, I'll replace them with better components, that's all. The recall of the fork was a pain, but thanks to Rockshox and my local bike shop, the problem was fixed within a month (the day my bike shop got the repair kit I brought it in and they repaired it within 10 minutes). As far as the rear cassette, I called my bike shop with the problem and GT replaced the no-name cassette with a Shimano XT the next day. Excellent customer service from GT, Rockshox, and especially AJ Barnes Bicycle Emporium. If it wasn't for the great service from everyone, I'd have to let it effect my ratings- but everyone was really responsive and made a potentially bad situation just a minor glitch. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BRIAN NICOLL
a Cross Country Rider
from MECHANICVILLE,NY ,USA
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Strengths: | AMAZING FRAME,I-DRIVE IS PLUSH AND IT WORKS | | Weaknesses: | NONE. IF YOUR GOING TO COMPLAIN ABOUT CHEAP COMPONENTS, KEEP IN MIND YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. FORK UP MORE MONEY IF YOU DONT LIKE HOW THEY SPEC'ED THIS $900 BIKE. | | Bike Setup: | PSYLO SL, FOX VANILLA R, SUN RHYNO LITES,AVID DISC BRAKES,MOSTLY XT AND TITEC,TIOGA DH 2.1 TIRES,PRIMO PLATFORMS | | Bottom Line: | WITH 5 INCHES UP FRONT AND 5.4 TOTAL IN REAR I COULDN'T ASK FOR A STIFFER, STRONGER, PLUSHER, MORE EFFICIANT BIKE. IT WILL DOWNHILL, FREERIDE OR X-C IN THE SAME DAY. JUST BUY THE FRAME AND UPGRADE THE CRAP WHEN IT BREAKS. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin Griffin
a Weekend Warrior
from Tempe, AZ
Date Reviewed: May 22, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Tempe Bicycle | | Strengths: | i-Drive frame, wow | | Weaknesses: | Drive train, more specifically, chain, F Derailleur, crankset, R hub, Front shock to heavy, unstable to ride with any weight on rear rack or backpack, worse since I replaced the drive train | | Similar Products Used: | '97 GT Karakoram | | Bike Setup: | Stock + Sram PC-59 chain, XT derailleurs and R hub, LX crank, splined bottom bracket, Lizard Skins on chainstay and R shock, R rack, Cateye Tomo XC, clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | The bicycle has the best looks of any of GT's '01 line, it rode acceptably on my test ride, and at the time I couldn't afford more. A week after buying it, and with no rides longer than 5 miles the chain broke. At 800 miles the crankset, F derailleur broke and the R hub was ready to break. After the upgrades mentioned above the pedaling and shifting was like a dream, but the instability caused by the heavy front shock was intensified, probably due to a heavy R hub. I can no longer ride without constantly holding the handlebars. Overall I can't believe GT and Shimano have sunk to this level, I've had nothing but good experiences with them in the past, even at the mid-range level. Mega 9 sucks. In the current configeration it gets 4 flamin' Chili's, the official rating reflects the original config. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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