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Submitted by
P-Fresh
a Weekend Warrior
from England
Date Reviewed: May 18, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Longridge Fells | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Winstanleys Wigan | | Strengths: | Great Frame, Good Components! Paid only £700 for it! | | Weaknesses: | Flat Bars, Bar Ends | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | Rockshox Toras, Titec DH Bars, Deore Hollowtech crank, Magura HS33 Rear brake, Hardcore Front Disc. | | Bottom Line: | I have had this bike for 10 Years and have really put it though its paces, the only things original are the frame, stem, seat post, front mech and headset. From trials and jumping off large walls as a fearless schoolboy, to cross country everyweekend, to freeriding etc. This bike has done it all!! Never missed a beat only reason i upgraded stuff was as it wore out or to make it even better!!
I love this bike and it will be sadly missed if i sell it when i buy a new full susser!! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob T
a Weekend Warrior
from Florida Yes Florida
Date Reviewed: December 8, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Monday-Friday | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Made in America. 7005Aluminum Solid welds, Triple triangle is virtually indestructible | | Similar Products Used: | 1996 GT Backwoods (The only 2 Hardtails I have ever owned; I gave my brother the Backwoods in 1999 when I bought Avalanche both are still solid) | | Bike Setup: | XT throughout / Thudbuster / Marz Bomber OEM / RhynoLites | | Bottom Line: | At the odd chance anyone will read this I feel it my duty to give accolades to the bike that has brought me so many fond memories. I have done everything to this bike and it has loved me more the more I punished it. It is now reitired to my urban scout bike, and now belongs to my fiance, and should we ever have children I will give to them. It really is part of the family it has never let me down, while I have upgraded & replaced comp's the frame is as solid today as it ever was. Triple Triangle is timeless, count the number of wins Team GT had on them between 1994-1999 it is sick. I will not sell this bike, it is as solid as ever built, and part of the family. 5 Chilis does not do it justice. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Doot
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago, Il
Date Reviewed: August 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | In chicago? - Palos Heights | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel Thing | | Strengths: | Good setup, and looks very cool. Very stable bike | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost broke after about 2 months of riding - replaced it with a Thompson and am now very happy | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fischer Paragon - Not nearly as good | | Bike Setup: | XT/LX mix | | Bottom Line: | Has been a great bike for the money, I have put miles and miles on it in Moab, Chicago, and Alaska and have always been happy - except for that crap about the seatpost breaking. But that was easy enough to fix. Great bike for the money | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thanee Limsettoe
a Cross Country Rider
from Takuapa, Phanga, Thailand
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | XC | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$769.00 | | Purchased At: | Worldbike, Thailand | | Strengths: | Cool | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Moab 3 | | Bottom Line: | excellent bike for the price | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
LURCH
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Palos | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Westchester Wheels | | Strengths: | Good value for the components. Stiff frame. | | Weaknesses: | Seat post sucks. Fat tube don't fit some bike/car | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 7000-8500 line | | Bike Setup: | Time Pedals. Marzocchi Z2 Bombers, LX Shifters,Crank & Brakes. XT Rear Derailleur
| | Bottom Line: | Awesome for single track and x-country.
This bike is perfect for the weekend warrior trial near Chicago. Have patients w/ Time-clips. You'll appreciate the gazelle like climbing. Good value bike.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Alamos
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Guaje Grind Course | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | NM Bike "N" Sport | | Strengths: | Strength and Durability | | Weaknesses: | A Little heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Hoo | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for WTB Tires Rock Shox Seatpost | | Bottom Line: | I have had this bike for 2 years and it continually impresses me. This bike is made super tough and it rides really well. There are areas that are easy to lose weight on this bike. But overall this is on of the best deals for the money. The suspension seatpost did add some weight but the results are worth it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Somxay
a Racer
from Philadelphia, PA
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | great price, looks great, and light | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR. King, Race Face | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. I have upgraded the whole bike from head to toe. It's wieghs 24 IBS, and I just love riding it. What not want to trade the bike for anything. If you are looking for a light, stiff and affordable bike, this is the one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kai Docq
a Downhiller
from nanaimo, bc, canada
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | anything | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$7000.00 | | Purchased At: | the realM (chain reaction) | | Strengths: | it's a kick @$$ bike and i love it so much, that this bike is now my little girl | | Weaknesses: | Ya right, none | | Similar Products Used: | GT Pantera, Gt Tempest, Precision PR 6045 | | Bike Setup: | have a look to my site at http://www.adean.co.uk/~aqua/ | | Bottom Line: | $7.000? am i nuts?
yes i am. this is what i spent over the years that i owned this bike and my baby is the best that i ever rided in 2 years that own her. i love my bike, i love biking and this baby already did over 12.000 km and she is still runing like brand new. i had to update the drive train earlier last week and this baby is like a torpedo on the road and a wild cat on trails. this bike is my baby and i named her Adrianna. her and i are totaly insperable and over 15 years of riding all sorts of bike, my GT is the best i ever had and i will not trade it in for anything. not even for 50 billions $
Everything on that bike has been customized and my bike shop dealer and i did the impossible to make it possible after years working together to make her look good and ride good and i think that GT are the best bikes around.
bottom line: you can see why i love my bike if you go to my site and my final comment will be, GO GT, this bike is kickin'
Go GT n keep smiling =)
Kai / Adrianna ;-) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a Racer
from Miramichi Canada
Date Reviewed: March 9, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | anything fast | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | incline sports | | Strengths: | the bombers mainly but the whole bike makes it a great price point | | Weaknesses: | saddle and seatpost and wirebead tires but get rid fo those and yer all set | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for- easton monkey lite, michelin wildgrippers, avid 2.0's, and a couple of smaller things | | Bottom Line: | A great bike for the price can't go wrong and if you look to save weight on your bike the things on that bike where weight can be saved are just screaming at you!! the LX brakes can be sweitched up for a pair of 2.0's and save half pound same goes if ya switch the tires to a michelin wildgripper thats a pound there. overall the guy at my shop figured it out and I can save almost 2 pounds and spend about 200 bucks!!! thats a hundred dollars a pound you can't fins weight any cheaper on any bikes out there!!! Its a great bike, I'll be racing it this summer and I feel totally confident riding it in a race series. Now log off and go riding!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lobo
a Racer
from PA
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Strengths: | Price, looks, and all around performer. | | Weaknesses: | none at all, just add some mods and it's a winner | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | TOP of line parts - Full XTR, Easton CT2 riser bar and seatpost, RACELITES W/ORIGINAL CHRIS KING HUBS WOW!!, Selle ti saddle, Salsa booster, Goretex light cables, and Raceface stem. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. My is a show stopper, the frame is lime in color and the rest of the parts are yellow. It is an exellent frame and with good stock parts. Kind of heavy but if you add some best mods like mind you have a winner. Treat this bike with the best and it will treat you with the same respect. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick Snider
a
from Nova Scotia, Canada
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Any. . . . | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Second-hand | | Strengths: | I paid $200 cdn for this frame second-hand. I also bought an assortment of parts from the same guy at an incredible price. Basicly I got the whole thing for $700 after a fork, and new shifters. It is great on the climbs, and even though it is stiff I also use it fot free riding. My two previous bikes were both Rocky Mtn's and I loved them both 'til I broke the steel frames (yeah both, and one twice!!) I love this bike for all I do, from the tech DH trails to the city dwelling trials. The tripple triangle frame is a whole different feel from the standard. Ifeel like I can get back futher when needed, and that the center of gravity is lowered on the bike itself, which helps imensely with the tachnical stuff. | | Weaknesses: | Not much to mention here. . . . although some may mention the weight thing, I am not too concerned there. Still a wicked bike. . . | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mtn Hammer Race and Vertex, Schwin Moab, GT tempest, Kona Roast, Kona Caldera, Specialized M3 | | Bike Setup: | Lime green frame, Z2 alloy w/Z1 stiff springs, XT front and rear der's and shifter/lever pods, X517 rims, ryno lites,(depending on the ride) Flat ritchy bar and ritchy hubs on the 517's and some wickedly fat Bontrager grips. . . . | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the definition of a well trained pet. You treat it well but with authority and it will follow your lead. Take it where ever you want to and it will get you through. The climbs are of corse one of its greatest strengths. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy Nelms
a Racer
from Martin, Tn USA
Date Reviewed: January 10, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | youth town | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1159.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle City | | Strengths: | Light, very stiff for sprinting, point it where you want it to go, excellent value, killer color(green). I'm able to adjust fork for all kind off conditions | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Moab 3 | | Bike Setup: | Phsylo XC set to 5 inches of travel, Race Face stem and riser bars fizik saddle cane creek suspension seat post xt wheel with mavic 222's Maxxis mud tires front and rear | | Bottom Line: | This is a do it all bike after the mods. You cannot beat this bike for the money, it came stock with excellent parts selection with the adjustable travel fork I can do anything from downhilling to cross country racing. Anyone looking for the bike for the most money I would recomend this bike or any of the GT brand, plus my bike was all hand built with 6061 and then there the killer color | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kai Docq
a Downhiller
from Nanaimo, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: November 27, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | all of them in nanaimo | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$6200.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction (the RealM) | | Strengths: | Light as a feather, design is sweet, the colour is really kewl. | | Weaknesses: | none, i love my bike so much, nothing is wrong with that frame | | Similar Products Used: | GT Pantera and Precision Pr 6045, trade it in for my Avalanche frame | | Bike Setup: | GT Avalanche, aluminum frame 16", most parts are ionized purple colour, customized painted front dual air Rock Shox Sid Suspension, front disc brake, most parts are XTR except the front hub, crank and pedals. I name her Adrianna | | Bottom Line: | My bike is so far, the best ever in my region and the best thing i ever bought, i never had any problem with it, i love it so much that i gave her a name (Adrianna) if you want to know why i named her Adrianna, you'll have to drop to my site to get the story at http://www.adean.co.uk/~aqua/
the new pictures of my Adrianna will be up soon.
I don't know why GT changed the colour of that bike this year. the colour of the model in 1999 was the best and matched beautyfully the design of that frame and parts that we put on. Anyway i sure hope that GT will bring back the colour of that Avalanche, but beside all that, it is the best bike i ever had. GO GT and keep smiling =)
Kai | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zack T
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson
Date Reviewed: November 21, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Butterfly | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Racers Edge. Shop at Arizona Bicycle Experts or Bikes West or Full Cycle if you are in Tucson Az. !! | | Strengths: | Beefy Frame and decent drive train. The Z2 alloy was a good spec with this bike. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy but beefy to match. Piece of junk binder bolt and seatpost !! I had a lot of trouble with the azonic stem which is not typical of azonic products. Switched it for a Race Face. Killed the rear wheel after only a couple hundred miles on a really tame trail. GT front hub is not up to par, even an LX would be better. Crappy time aliums that don't like water. | | Similar Products Used: | All of them. | | Bike Setup: | Z2 Atom 80. Race Face Stem. Time Pedals. XTR seatpost and brakes. Risers and stock everything else. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike because it has been a good partner but I wouldn't buy it again. The avalanche that GT is turning out this year is crap. If you are set on a hardtail look at Specialized. They give your more bang for your buck. I am hoping to replace this bike with a Santa Cruz superlight. Put a lot of really really really rocky miles on this bike and had some pretty good "oh my God I am going to die" crashes but the frame has held up great. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Chagrin Falls, Ohio
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Vulture's Knob / Local property | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Spoke N' Wheel | | Strengths: | Frame, Fork, Drivetrain, Pedals | | Weaknesses: | Heavy Frame, Super Stiff ride, | | Similar Products Used: | Cro-moly Giant & Diamond Back | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Azonic riser bar | | Bottom Line: | This is my first aluminum frame, and I have to say that its a little harsh. The ride on rocky downhills is tough. I researched quite a bit before purchasing. I had planned to buy a Fisher Kai Tai, but then I got such a good deal on this. I love the components, no junk here. I feel that the top tube may create a larger cockpit than most are accustomed to. My buddy has a size large Cannondale, and its a lot smaller than my 18" Avalanche. Swapped out for riser bar for more control. If you love to ride, and can get a good deal on this one, pick it up. I'd say test the GT feel first though. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robbie
a Weekend Warrior
from Brampton
Date Reviewed: November 2, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Hardwood Hills | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Strengths: | Awesome frame
Great components (LX/XT)
Z2 Bombers - love 'em! | | Weaknesses: | Seat was a bit hard on my @ss for a while, but I've gotten used to it...
Touch heavier than I would ideally like (but then again, so am I...)
Enduroraptors are a bit heavier (thinking of changing to Panaracer Fire XC Pro's - won't match the Hot Lime colour of the frame anymore though)
Generic Seatpost (possible upgrade)
The only problem I've had so far is with the XT front derailleur (doesn't like to shift). | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher KaiTai & Big Sur
Kona Roast
Specialized Rockhopper
Rocky Mountain Hammer Race
Norco Nitro
Last bike was a Maxam Overdrive w/ full Deore LX
| | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z2 Bombers, LX Shifters, Crank & Brakes. XT Front & Rear Derailleurs. Azonic Stem & Bar. Mavic X221's w/GT Hubs. WTB Enduroraptors & WTB SST.X Seat
Basically stock (CDN version) except for an upgrade to an XT front derailleur at purchase | | Bottom Line: | I did a lot of shopping & research before my purchase. For the price it got it for, none of the other bikes came close to the Avalanche in overall value. It handles well, climbs like a beast, and the Bombers are schweet.
Bottom line - this bike rocks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Virden
a Cross Country Rider
from Chesapeake, Virginia
Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | York River at Night | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Contes | | Strengths: | Great Climber, plush shock, great components, rims rock!!! | | Weaknesses: | stock seat, heavy frame | | Similar Products Used: | 95 GT Backwoods | | Bike Setup: | USE seatpost, koobi seat, time pedals, irc slicks for hardpack, panaracers for mud, WTB headset | | Bottom Line: | Once i got used to the new frame, this bike started rocking, i can climb a tree with it!! By far the best deal in the bike shop for the price. Very nimble and agile, eats up the tight singletrack. The brushed Aluminum and black rims look cool too! It is a little heavy, but my new seat and post lightened it up a little. The bearings in the headset rusted up after a wet ride, now i can grease it with the WTB. Also, need a new seatpost skewer, the stock GT one won't clamp down tight enough. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Action Radius
a Racer
from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Wascana Trails | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Very fast...added about 7-8 km/h on descending, very stiff frame, fork plushness (if u like it like that) | | Weaknesses: | Heavy as hell...over 26 lbs. , front tire seems a bit unstable while turning, hard seat | | Similar Products Used: | gt aggressor | | Bike Setup: | stock, avalanche frame, full lx, xt rear deralleur. azonic, titec, wtb tires and seat | | Bottom Line: | This bike is very solid, but dont get it is you are a weight weeening, i dont myind the weight, i am just over 140 lbs, and 15 years old, i can climb just as fast as those guys on their sun-22 pound bikes, so it is fine, just try and swap the seat | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Duncan
a Cross Country Rider
from Loanhead, Midlothian, Scotland
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Pentlands | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Solid frame, Z2 forks, XT rear gears | | Weaknesses: | Heavy tyres, paint finish | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper, very old Saracen Sahara | | Bike Setup: | Standard except Specialized Dirt Master/Control Comp tyres. | | Bottom Line: | Bought this bike for £600 from Pauls Cycles in the UK (List price was £1100).
The bike came supplied with WTB Enduroraptor tyres which I found weren't up to much so I changed the tyres. The new tyres have a kevlar beed. The difference in just changing the tyres was amazing. The bike must have lost a couple of pounds in weight.
An excellent bike for excellent money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeffrey
a Cross Country Rider
from Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | laughlin city, northern alberta, as seen in X-men, the movie. | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | The welds on this thing are absolutely beautiful. Smooth, consistent, large, shiny; have not seen such beads on such low priced bikes. The frame has large ovalized tubes that give it a strong look and give the impression of being tough. Although it is only an impression, i cannot imagine the frame being LESS strong than bikes with smaller tubes.
The frame with it's extended seatstays looks slick, better than any hardtail at any price although people who are disgusted with mass produced frames from the island of Taiwan will want to puke. haha too bad, I do not have that much money to spend, and in it's brushed (?) finish (paintless, grey finish) the welds stand out particularly nicely. The whole bike, when viewed from a few feet away looks wicked. The down tube gusset makes the down tube even more thick. The stock fork is a z-2 alloy with less than 3 inches of travel- good for cross city bombing but not good for downhill burning. It is soft and squishy and blue colored which matches the blue sided wtb saddle. The bike really is rigid, sprinting is quick and climbs track hard and rocket uphill, on rear wheel landings impact is transferred straight to the feet. However, i have no idea how rigid this thing is compared to higher end aluminum bikes because i have never ridden those. But since high end Al bikes are lighter and teh tubes are thinner and smaller in diameter, i cannot imagine them being any stiffer than the avalanche. This bike was cheap too, 1300 CDN, a really good deal i think. | | Weaknesses: | The clipless pedals are hard to release and the grips are thin and do not absorb shock. The bike is heavy for a 16 inch frame- 27 lbs? The stock tires are wire bead and the WTB saddle is way too stiff for comfort. The fork has too little travel for anything besides x-country riding. | | Similar Products Used: | schwinn megapegasus or something. devinci hardtail, trek bike at same price, specialized rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | upgrade xt shifter/brakes, xtr brake levers, club roost comp riser bar | | Bottom Line: | In my mind this is a awesome bike for the price. With its beautiful wields, i don't mind that it is a robot mass produced bike. To me, it is the same quality as any hand wielded bike- i may be in denial, but I am happy at the moment. It is also stiff and fast, exactly what I want in a bike- with it's smooth fork it's absolutely perfect for city slicking and riding the curbs and potholes and roots in local trails. It also looks really cool and strong, and feels cool and strong, and perhaps even is cool and strong. Oh well, absolutely no regrets about plunkning down my life savings for this rig. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Somxay Inthachak
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia, PA , US
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | any one is fine!!! | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Price, fast, looks, quality, pretty light, accleration, climbing, the bike just does it all!!! | | Weaknesses: | should have Judy's, frame kind of heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper A1 FS | | Bike Setup: | Z2, XT/LX, Titec, and Azonic. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great hardtail mtb. It accelarate quick, climbing is quick and it's fast. I just got mine yesterday, I payed $750 for a brand new 99 XT/LX Avalanche. I bought the bike from Allencycles.com, when added up the bike cost $630 from the U.K. I payed $120 for shipping from the U.K to US and it was worth it. The only thing I don't like is the WWT saddle, it's too hard. I rode 2 hours non-stop, I just got back from riding and my butt's numb. I am ordering a gel saddle. It's a great price for a nice XC mtb. I bought mine for $750 including shipping and you should too. They have all sizes. See ya!!!!!!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Rosa, CA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Rough Go (Annadel SP ) | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Z2 Fork, Shimano XT Rear, XT Brakes & Shifters, Time ATAC pedals. | | Weaknesses: | Michelin Tires, LX front Derailleur and cranks. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock other than GEAX tires in place of the Michelins. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike for the money. I did alot of looking before I bought this bike and could'nt find anything with comparable components for the price. I paid $950 for my 99 Avalanche. Although GT could have put a fork with a little more travel on this bad boy, the Z2 fork was far better than any other fork found on a bike of the same price range. The Full Shimano set up is a plus although GT could have put an XT front to match the rear derailleur as well as an XT crankset. But I can't complain. This bike has been almost flawless. It climbs like a Mother F$#*@%! It seemed a little unresponsive on the down hill, but once I changed tires I noticed a big difference. The ride is a bit stiff, but if you like to feel the trail it won't bother you at all. Did I mention that it climbs like a Mother F$#*@%! For the money the components are great. I will us the LX stuff until it breaks and then upgrade. The saddle is a little hard too. Something to think about if you have sensative glutes. The only other gripe I have is that the decals on the bike seem to crack off pretty easily. Petty I know, but if you're into appearance, a heads up. Overall I am very happy with this bike. I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a well equipped hardtail for not a whole lot of cash. If you can find one with these components you're lucky. I 've seen the 2000 and it's not as well equipped. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joakim
a Racer
from Norway
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | The frame is very stiff and solid, the equipment is fine, the few things that was poor was the head-set, the tires(to fat and heavy)and seatpost. | | Weaknesses: | There are one big weakness, the frame is far to heavy. Over 4 pounds/2 kilos | | Similar Products Used: | Kona AA | | Bike Setup: | Sram 9.0, Fizik, mavic 517, tioga head-set, Michlin and Hutcinson Pyton, avid/XT V-brakes | | Bottom Line: | This is a good bike, perfect for weekend wariorrs. Because of the weigth this is not a bike I would recomend for racers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl Chicoine
a Cross Country Rider
from Rimouski, Québec
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Marzocchi Z-2 tres douce, bonne géométrie et solide comme du rock, full shimano et good look. | | Weaknesses: | Handlebar et selle pas tres confortable. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 8000
Oryx hta500 | | Bike Setup: | pedal vp, rim mavic x221 | | Bottom Line: | Comme tous les GT l'avalanche est un excellent vélo, a part quelque défaut. Tres bonne accélération. Un peu plus lourd que c'est rivalle (trek-canonndale) la qualité du frame compense. J'ai changé la selle WTB pour une bontrager FS+10, le guidon Titec HF pour un Hell-bent et les Mavic X221 pour des X517. OK... tous sa a fait gripper le prix
mes j'ai présentement un GOOD BIKE.
Je le recommande a tous le monde... il a un tres bon freinage surtous avec les X517 et de tres bonne composantes SHIMANO. C'est mon petit bijou $$$ | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven Reay
a Cross Country Rider
from Grande Prairie ,AB, Canada
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | ???Any trail, I love biking. | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | One great strength that I noticed from the start was the incredibly wicked price, the componentry and the awesome hot Lime frame. The frame alone sold me over. | | Weaknesses: | Should of had some Rock Shox Judys. Marzocchi Bomber doesnt have enough travel | | Similar Products Used: | None, this is the only bike I ever seriously ridden | | Bike Setup: | Rock Shox SID XC, Titec Hellbent riser bar, Titec Big Al, THE XC fender, Shimano 646 pedals,Selle Italia Trimatic black Gel seat, Rock Shox suspension post | | Bottom Line: | This bike kicks a@#,frame has an eye catching look(no other kind),light frame, good set of componentry, and handles very well considering its a hardtail.
Spent $1600 Canadian and than $1200.00 on extras
This bike looks awesome, rides awesome and deserves as many hot chilllllllies as posible
(go out and buy this bike before theyre gone) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Weekend Warrior
from Bklyn NY
Date Reviewed: February 3, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Light Fast and can put up with a beating. Zokes Rock. LX brakes are all you really need unless you get off by showing off. | | Weaknesses: | STX RC equiment. How much more would LX bump the price? $50 | | Similar Products Used: | Iron Horse, Cannondale (yuck) hate that headshock | | Bike Setup: | Replaced the KORE bars with a crwobar a specialized V seat (damn that WTB Killed my ass) Set of velocity deep V in the back aero heat in the from XTR hubs. | | Bottom Line: | I have a 98 Avalanche
I have friends who paid a little less and there bikes don't compare.
I have friends who got ripped and bought cannondales and they don't compare component wise at all.
Basically for the money you get an awesome Bike that you could ride right out of the Bike shop and onto the trails and not worry about stuff breaking
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenny McCormick
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: February 1, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Don River | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Dirt cheap! I got my brand new '98 Avalanche for $700 US in February of 99. Nice fork-Marzocchi Z-2. XT derailleur is a nice touch as well as Kore stem and handle bar. | | Weaknesses: | STX-RC!!! No excuese to spec a bike in this price range with STX-RC crankset. Worse yet, it doesn't even come with clipless pedals. Generic seatpost, but then again, I can't expect Syncros seat post. Worst thing, the saddle is ultra-hard on your ass. You can however, trade in the saddle to WTB for exchange as long as you have your receipt. | | Similar Products Used: | Stumpjumper, Oryx, GT Backwoods. | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z2, LX brakes/shifters/fr derailleur, XT rear derailleur, STX-RC crankset with strap pedals, Kore stem/bar, WTB saddle. | | Bottom Line: | Handles better than I expected from a bike in this price range. Light enough for me, and the triple triangle really looks good. Since I don't have the cash to upgrade for a while, I will have to live with the prostate numbing saddle, ghetto looking cranksets/pedals and generic seatpost. It's an excellent bike to build around for those on budget and majority of the components don't need immediate upgrading. LX brakes and shifters work well and you get the excellent feel of Zokes which you usually don't find on bikes in this price range. I love this bike. Two thumbs up from T.O. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan Toffelmier
a Cross-Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, Ca
Date Reviewed: January 8, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: |
Wilder Ranch Trails | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
It's fast, light, corners great and is pretty affordable. | | Weaknesses: |
None | | Similar Products Used: |
Murry 18 speed, and BMX also Specialized Stumpjumper M2 comp, and GT Timberline | | Bike Setup: |
99' GT Avalanche with Z-2 Bam, LX dressing with XT rear. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike. Of all the bikes I've used this one takes the cake. It's fast, corners great and I got it for a great price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, CA
Date Reviewed: December 29, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Tahoe-Flume/Rim Trail | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Lightweight, FAST, Responsive, Great Components (Marzocchi Shock & Shimano LX/XT). | | Weaknesses: |
None, so far. | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondale F500 & F700, Klein Pulse Comp | | Bottom Line: | I picked up my '99 GT in May for $950 after much research. Moving from an '89 Rockhopper to this bike was like going from driving a school bus to a Porchse. I've ridden some of the best trails in the SF Bay Area and Lake Tahoe, and this bike has performed exceptionally under all conditions. Uphills are much easier to digest and downhills SCREAM! I aggree with others here that this has to be the best bike (frame & component set) for the money. If your looking for a bike and find this one is still out there, buy it!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Judson Merrell
a Downhiller
from Salsibury, NC
Date Reviewed: December 19, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
UNCC Campus | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Great Bike!!! | | Weaknesses: |
None | | Similar Products Used: |
Raleigh, Fuji, Diamondback, Kona | | Bike Setup: |
2000 Avalanche, Mavic 321disc, Full Hayes Hydraulic Disc | | Bottom Line: | This is the second Avalanche that I have owned. This new one is great. I changed out the Formula front disc and Koski Rear V-Brake for Full Hayes. A much Better Ride. Also, i cracked 2 pair of Mavic 221's and a bent the stock Syncros handlebar that came on the bike. I now have an Azonic Double Wall and 321 Downhill rims. I couldnt ask for a better bike. 24.3 lbs!! I love it!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
AARON
a Racer
from AUCKLAND NZ
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
ROTORUA | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
STRONG FRAME,GOOD LOOKS,EXCELLENT HANDLING,AND RELATIVELY LIGHT WEIGHT(26.2lbs FOR 20 BIKE) | | Weaknesses: |
SADDLE(LIGHT BUT TOOOO HARD),REAR WHEEL | | Similar Products Used: |
TO MANY | | Bike Setup: |
CHANGED TIRES TO DIRT CONTROLS & MASTERS,CHANGED SEAT TO A SELLE ITALIA FLITE,CROSSMAX WHEELS | | Bottom Line: | CHANGING THE WHEELS DROPPED THE WEIGHT 1.2lbs(AS MEASURED ON DIGITAL SHIPPING SCALES)& MADE THE BIKE HANDLE A HELL OF ALOT BETTER.ANYONE CONCERNED ABOUT REPORTS OF THIS BIKE WEIGHTING ALOT ,NEED NOT WORRY.AT 26.2lbs FOR A 20 ,AND 24lbs EVEN,IN RACE FORM ,THIS HAS GOT TO BE THE LIGHTEST, AND STRONGEST BIKES I HAVE RIDDEN FOR YEARS | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyler
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Antonio, Texas
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Bottom Line: | I've gone through two 1998 Avalanche LE frames and both cracked in the same place -- top tube seat tube juncture at the front seatpost weld. I now ride a Zaskar (GT gave me this on my second warranty claim). I'm 5'11 and 150 lbs. so not huge and I ride moderate to rocky single track -- no sick North Shore drop offs or excessive jumping. If anyone else has had this problem I would be interested in an e-mail. On a positive note however, GT has been absolutely fantastic in handling these warranty claims. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Osiowy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Regina, SK
Date Reviewed: November 20, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Roots @ Buffalo Pound | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: |
Strong, nice shock, good shifting, solid feel, nice finish. | | Weaknesses: |
Built in Taiwan (Treks, Specializeds and Schwinns of comparable $$$ are made in the USA)Who wants to pay this kind of money for a 28 lb. bike?(My Stumpjumper weighs ~24.5 lbs.) | | Similar Products Used: |
Bought a Stumpjumper Comp over this bike, used to own a Trek 6000, rode a pimped Klein Mantra, a '96 S-Works, various other good bikes... | | Bike Setup: |
Stock (Can. version has WTB component package, w/ SST seat and Enduroraptor tires) | | Bottom Line: | Nice bike, and it would've been a definite improvement over my Trek 6000 (alivio and a Quadra 5-yuck!), and for the list price, a very good deal. But, as a sport-class racer, I couldn't bring myself to race a bike with a six-pound frame made by welder paid $2 an hour in Taiwan. In all fairness, I only weigh 175 lbs., and had that figure been a little higher, this bike, with its awesome stiffness, would've been more of a consideration. Also, list price vs. list price, this bike is probably a better deal than mine was.I hope I don't come across as a GT-basher, but I just feel that for a racer or a lighter person, the bike I purchased works must better, not that the Avalanche is horrible or anything. It would clearly be the superior bike for a trials rider or a clydesdale, as a bike that could take a hell of a pounding. But you do pay a weight price for the extra strength, and the deal I got on my bike was too good to pass up.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JON
a Weekend Warrior
from Buena Park
Date Reviewed: November 4, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Rock it' | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
very strong frame w/ quick acceleration in mind. good suspension | | Weaknesses: |
hmmm...kryptonite | | Similar Products Used: |
mantis | | Bike Setup: |
all stock. | | Bottom Line: | paid $900 for it and it kicks @$$. i luv it. I am a pilot and i break it down and throw it in the aft seat and catalina/big bear here i come. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel Betteridge
a Downhiller
from Dorchester, England
Date Reviewed: October 27, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Devils Drop | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Very plush marzocchi Z2 forks. Strong frame. Good components. | | Weaknesses: |
I would prefer avid breaks. | | Similar Products Used: |
Gary Fisher Big sur. awful bike, i feel sorry for those who own one. | | Bike Setup: |
I haven't changed anything except bars. | | Bottom Line: | It is a very good ride but i had to get off the flat bars and added some azonic world force bars. Climbing is quite hard as the forks are probably a bit too soft but the GT frame gives good accelaration and fast handeling but GT sizes are quite big. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Miller
a Weekend Warrior
from Dallas, Texas
Date Reviewed: October 26, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Cedar Hill State Park | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Strong rigid frame
Components for the price
All Shimano gruppo
Nice on the eyes | | Weaknesses: |
Bad seat (SDG Bel-Air)
Grips | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Stumpjumper
Trek 7000
Schwinn Homegrown
Cannondale 900 | | Bike Setup: |
all stock:
Bomber Z-2 alloy
Shimano XT/LT
Michelin Comp-S tires
Time ATAC pedals
Yeti grips | | Bottom Line: | I got this for $900 as a '99 closeout, and for the money, you can't beat this setup of components. Light bike; you can fly up hills and it handles very well overall. Nice stiff feel. Ball-burnished frame is a looker. I actually noticed that my frame is stamped 6061, although Avalanches are spec'd to use 7005 frames, so I got myself a deal! I must say, my Michelin tires are great, although they seem to take somewhat of a beating on the reviews here. I've had no problems with them. Switch out the seat, put some new grips on, and there's nothing else to complain about when it comes to components for the price. GT makes some great bikes! Full rating on this one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Timberwolf
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto,Ontario
Date Reviewed: October 15, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Hardwood Hills( So far ) | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Super Strong Frame and excellent welding. Shimano XT/LX combo.
Marzocchi Z2 Shock rocks, GT rocks, rock!Not enough chillies to throw down for this beast! | | Weaknesses: |
Constant staring by those who don't have one. | | Bottom Line: | If you are looking for a strong bike, and you don't plan to buy again, the Avalanche should be considered. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mitch warren
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bowling Green, KY
Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Otter Creek, L'ville Ky. | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: |
This bike seems to have all the little perks of the 98 avalanche, full shamano, and the bomber fork, what else could be said. | | Weaknesses: |
I agree with the concensus on the grips, really stink for the short term, I can only imagine about x-country racing | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek 8900 | | Bottom Line: | This bike is excellent for the market price. I own the 98 model and it is every bit as good as mine with about a $300 mark down ,who could not pass that up. GT makes quality bikes that can take a definate beating. I bought the 98 model for overall component flow, this bike seemed to have it in the test ride, check it out. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jiwon Kim
a Weekend Warrior
from Buena Park, CA
Date Reviewed: October 1, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Snow Summit | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
light, agile, great parts for the price | | Weaknesses: |
needs longer travel fork for my style of riding | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Stumpjumper M2, XCR4000 | | Bike Setup: |
IRC Mythos XC, AC Brake Booster, XT bb set | | Bottom Line: | It is a great bike for cross country use but I need a full suspension. It's a great bike to jump with, but I'm getting into downhill so not for me. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jobob
a Cross-Country Rider
from mt. olive,nc
Date Reviewed: September 26, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
good light frame and good components, really stiff | | Weaknesses: |
really stiff | | Similar Products Used: |
trek 6000 | | Bike Setup: |
avalanche frame with a z2 and lx xt parts | | Bottom Line: | it rules!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jon
a Cross-Country Rider
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: September 8, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Bottom Line: | I can not fault this bike. A few minor grumbles like the quality of the wheel build and the crappy grip, but in general this bike is great. I looked at the Trek 8000 as an alternative and it wan'st nearly as good for the price.I put them both on the scales and the Trek 8000 was marginally lighter. I have no idea what the guy below is talking about perhaps he weighed a 20 inch GT with DH tires on it against a 16 inche Trek(there is absolutely no way it ways 28lbs). I think the weight difference was in the order of a hundred and fifty grams and that could easily be attributed to the extra weight of the z22 over the Manitous. Z2s are a far superior fork. I see the guy below posted a review saying he bought the Trek 8000. You buy a bike primarily for the frame and the GT frame is beautiful. I think it is a case of sour grapes with the guy below. You won't find a better handling bike for the price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Need4Speed
a Cross-Country Rider
from Waterloo, Ontario
Date Reviewed: August 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Hardwood | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Z2 alloy fork
LX breaks
Strong frame | | Weaknesses: |
Weight!!!
WTB saddle
grips | | Similar Products Used: |
everything | | Bike Setup: |
stock except stem | | Bottom Line: | If you want a great ride anything and everything bike, this is it. That being said, it is a tank. Some peoples' scales seem a bit generous - it's actually just shy of 28 pounds. Ouch!! Also, the grips wore down in 2 months, and the saddle is a rock - swap it. Few other bikes in this price range offer such an incredible fork in the Z2, but the Trek 8000
is 3 pounds lighter, has a Manitou sx (almost as good), and is slightly cheaper. There are better choices than the avalanche out there. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Mui
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Bruno
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
love 'em all | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
High value
Full Shimano component gruppo ( no Avid levers/brakes
Marzocchi forks
Great frame | | Weaknesses: |
Michelin Wildgrippers ( not )
Onza bar ends were too small | | Similar Products Used: |
99' GT Ricochet
99' Stumpjumper comp
99' Rockhopper A1 comp | | Bike Setup: |
Shimano LX/XT
Marzocchi Z2 Alloy
Profile bar ends
Time ATAC alium pedals | | Bottom Line: | I would give this bike six stars if I could. The bike has got to be one of the highest value-for-price bikes out there. I got mine for $900. At this price point, you can't find ANY bike that has a Marzocchi Z2 Alloy, FULL Shimano LX/XT gruppo. Usually bikes at this price point have Jett XC's STX or LX parts, Avid levers and brakes, etc. I was seriously thinking about getting a stumpjumper, but I couldn't possibly pass up this deal! IF you don't have one, or are looking for a great bike at around $1000, you GOTTA get a GT AVALANCHE!!!! IT'S SWEET!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross-Country Rider
from Los Alamos, NM
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Guaje Ridge & Pipeline | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Frame quality and stiffness. | | Weaknesses: |
None so far. | | Similar Products Used: |
Stumpjumper, Hoo Koo E Koo, Trek 8000 | | Bike Setup: |
Fisher HKEK Manitou SX-R | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price and the shop I bought it from was really great(NM Bike N Sport) It is really stiff and climbs like a scalded goat, component mix is really good. Best value in this price range. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a Weekend Warrior
from Kansas City
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Devil's Den State Park | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Strong
Acceleration? Kept poping up the front tire while sitting down - Very Fast
Time Pedals
Price | | Weaknesses: |
The stock seat, bar ends and LX components | | Similar Products Used: |
Various Specialized and Diamond Back | | Bike Setup: |
Swapped seat for a LookIn Gel, bar ends for profile, and Crank to XT. | | Bottom Line: | I just bought this bike. I am 6'5' and 200 lbs. The rigity was supprising. In one week, I beat the he## out of it. I will be upgrading to xt all around, which I think will make the only difference I need. No matter how hard I try and tune in the lx front, it still does not shift the way I would like it to. (I am probably getting some flex due to my size.) I researched long and hard before I bought this one, and I am seriously overjoyed with it. Oh yea, GT was out of the billet color for the 20', the reps couldn't find one, and that green is well, I bought a matching helmet to add insult to injury. 4 stars, because of a couple of components, but considering the price I'm gonna give it all 5 of the little flaming turds. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Travmaster Flash
a Racer
from Mesa AZ
Date Reviewed: June 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Hawes / national | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Frame Ridgity, ZOKE Forks, | | Weaknesses: |
Michelin Tires, Stem too long (for my short torso) | | Similar Products Used: |
Univega FS1, Raleigh m800, | | Bike Setup: |
Stock, except for riser bars and new ritchey OCR Wheelset. | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line, I love this bike. I almost treat it better than my wife! This has been only my second bike since I have stated riding, and other than adding a FS bike someday, I will keep it forever. I am not your standard stick of a guy cyclist, I am a 5'11, 235# muscle machine who used to Desert race Dirtbikes here in AZ. Needless to say, I Love everything about Marzocchi, and their products. The only problem I had was with the spring...and thats not GT's problem, Marzocchi's just come sped'd with the medium springs. Thanks to a GREAT shop, they swapped the springs for free. I also dropped in a riser bar, (one from an I-drive) because I was a little too stretched out, and wasn't able to get my fat butt far enough back on the descents..(OTB too many times). I love the wheelset, the black is great looking, until you break spokes, and have to replace them with stainless becuase most bike shops (that I have found anyway) don't stock black. The only problem I have is with the radial lacaed non-drive side of the rear wheel.. I have to true it all the time. The front does not need trued so often, however I do feel it flex through the corners. I bought a set of Ritchey OCR wheels custom built with xt/Ritchey hubs and had them 3x laced all around, and now use them off road, and use the original wheels for road training. Oh, and I hate them Michelins..time to buy some WTB Velociracers....
This bike rules, I love it, and could talk about it all day long, (as you can read).
...say no to TV, and yes to riding...
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross-Country Rider
from Lancaster, Pa
Date Reviewed: June 16, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Great acceleration,
very nimble on single track, good downhiller, excellent all around hardtail | | Weaknesses: |
You will need to dial in the Bomber & get used to the forward motion you can get on this bike | | Similar Products Used: |
Stumpjumper,
Cdale Beast of East,
Schwin Moab,
Spec FSR, | | Bike Setup: |
Marzocchi Bomber,
Tioga Alchemy head,
XT, LX stuff, Specialized Team tires, & Mavic 222 rims w\ stout hubs,
other goodies | | Bottom Line: | This bike feels soooo good. You need to ride it to see how fast it is. Its a GREAT XC bike. The frame (6061) is great. This bike is a great choice in the price range .... you will have NO regrets. GT bagged the elephant on this one. Its a great bike !! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George
a Cross-Country Rider
from Los Angeles
Date Reviewed: June 8, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Moab | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Sweet as butter front suspension. Time Atac pedals, awesome. One of the most comfortable hardtails ever!!! | | Weaknesses: |
Saddle does not compliment the bike. Neither does the handlebar. | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Stumpjumper not as sweet as this. Homegrown, not nearly as smooth of ride compared to the avalanche | | Bike Setup: |
Specialized Hardrock w/LX equipped w/ Rock Shox XC & Azonic hndlbar | | Bottom Line: | No other bicycle will give you a better ride than this. More SPEED, More AIR, and COMFORT!!! If you like to fly this is it!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A.S.
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vienna, VA
Date Reviewed: June 2, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Any | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Excellent frame, good components. | | Weaknesses: |
Effective top tube length is slightly, SLIGHTLY too short. | | Similar Products Used: |
Gary Fisher Big Sur, Schwinn Homegrown, Trek 8000 | | Bike Setup: |
Marzocchi Z2 Bomber | | Bottom Line: | Excellent bike as is!!! 26.1 lbs, but some lighter components can certainly make it even better. GT frames are outstanding, very sturdy, very stiff ride. The bike is EXTREMELY maneuverable and controllable and it handles unbelievabley well. Marzocchi fork is quite good (I was raised on a Rock Shox Mag 21). Saddle is a little too hard though. The Onza pro-cut bar ends are very awkward (hard to determine where to place your hands). Lastly (and this is the biggie), if you're like me and you prefer to be a little more stretched out on your bike, you may find the Avalanche to have an effective top tube length that's a little too short. You'll feel a tad scrunched up and slightly uncomfortable on steep descents...as if you're gonna tip over the handlebars. A longer stem would help this, I'd imagine, especially since the Azonic one already there is fairly short.
In general thoughy, this is an excellent bike with generally very good components. And at $1100 dollars, I'd say it's one of the best deals out there. Oh, and the Billet finish (not ball burnished), looks pretty dope! 5 chilis, with some salsa on top. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross-Country Rider
from SA
Date Reviewed: June 1, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
A beautifully balanced frame that accelerates and handles equally well. Tha Marzochi's z2s are the best forks I've ridden. The handling is really what blows me away. | | Weaknesses: |
It weighs more than my other race bike but I put this down to the forks which are well worth the extra weight.
The big disappointment was the build quality. | | Similar Products Used: |
Norco Nitro
Cannondale F900
Trek 8000
Kona Pahoehoe
Kona Kula
Specialised Stumpjumper( nice bike but couldn't match the GT for the price/value) | | Bike Setup: |
I changed the LX Brake levers and shifters for XT and put on a pair of Azonic riser bars. | | Bottom Line: | I raced it for the first time last weekend and was more than impressed. On tight twisty pineforest tracks it glided through the corners.Ii found myself not even using the brakes. On the third lap I realised my usual tactics of trying to fight my other bike were not needed through very technical stuff because this bike just went through it effortlessly. It was a funny sensation to realise I was needlessly expending all this energy when I didn't need to. The bike climbs really well too.
One problem I had with the bike was that it was basically thrown together with the parts literally hanging off. I think the bike shop I bought it from had something to do with this. If you buy one make sure you get a good wheel builder to tension the wheels properly as my guess is they are machine built. Mine were shocking and I basically trashed the rear wheel because of crappy spoke tensioning. Also the day I got it the hub tension on the front wheel was so tight the wheel was grinding. The headset was incredibly loose also. The brakes were lopsided and the brake pads were not even close to flush with the rims. The bottom line is that this is an excellent bike and even though I was frustrated with the building of the bike it still gets a full five stars. I can't put my finger on why I love this bike so much as it seems to do everything faultlessly. I have to admit the Stumpy was nice but at the extra expense it didn't seem worth it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Downhiller
from Allentown, PA
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Bottom Line: | I have had my Avalanche over a year. It is the best bike I have ever owned. It was a steel for the grand I droped. I know I will move on to higher-tech GT's, but this one will remain with me forever!! I love it. And why is my bike worth more than my car?? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Harris
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Jose. Ca
Date Reviewed: May 12, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Porcupine Rim, Moab | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
-Strong, rigid frame
w/lifetime warranty
-Good Comp. package
-Best bang for the bucks
($1099.--)
-marzocchi forks, 2.75
plush travel | | Weaknesses: |
Tires
grips
bar-ends
rear wheel lacing | | Similar Products Used: |
-Trek 8000 ($1029.--)
-Specialized Stumpjumper
M-2 Comp ($1199.--)- | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike! The frame is strong, rigid,
great looking and comes with a lifetime warranty.
I think the hot lime color is the bomb but chose
the ball burnished finish because I think that it will look better longer (harder to notice dings @
scratches when there is no paint anyway). This frame is a great platform for a solidly respectable component package (XT/LX) The frame geometry is pretty aggressive and I had the sensation that I was too far forward on technical
descents so I replaced the Titec HF handlebar with
a LP XC carbon fiber bar with a 1 3/4 rise, 5 deg. bend and at 25 gives me 2 more usable leverage length. I didn't like the Onsa Pro-cut
bar ends that came with the bike. They were too small for my hands and too angular @ the bend to be comfortable. I gave them away and installed Icon Fatty McGees that are a full 1 1/8 in diam., have a more natural curved bend and are
lighter than the Titecs. I plan on replacing the
GT throttle grips. They definately grip but are way too hard for me. I will be glad when I wear out the Michelin Wild gripper tires. They don't do any thing for me at all. The largest complaint
that I had about the bike was that although it came with very good wheels I think that it is a mistake to radial lace the drive side of a hardtail bikes back wheel. I've had to have my back wheel trued too often. Fortunately I used a great dealer and he cross-laced the wheel for me @ no charge. Problem solved. The radial laced front wheel is fine with front suspension and looks nice. The Marzocchi Z-2 Alloy forks offer a plush and very adjustable 2.75 of travel, looks great and offers the possibility of a front disc brake upgrade. With the exception of a few beauty uprades I want to do I pretty much have my dream hardtail. She climbs like an ant and now with the
handlebar upgrade for faster and safer descents I'm dialed in.
I like this bike very much! I will love it when I've made a few small improvements. These are a
matter of personal comfort
that are | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J.J. Trails
a Cross-Country Rider
from Minnesota
Date Reviewed: May 9, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Milaca | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Frame strength,good component mix,the forks! | | Weaknesses: |
weight | | Similar Products Used: |
Raliegh M400
Fisher Paragon
Schwinn Homegrown | | Bike Setup: |
Stock | | Bottom Line: | The bike is equipped pretty much as all others in the price range, xt,lx,etc. GT frames speak for themselves, tough as hell. As a payoff for the strength, you get a little heavier frame(27 pounds on the Avalanche)not the end of the world but it adds up.I liked, no loved, the fork selection compared to the run of the mill Rock Shocks out there. The Time pedals also helped make my decision. How many SPD clones can you get? GT is a great bike, almost legendary, but pick a bike because of how it fits you, not a review. Kill your TV, get out and ride!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colin
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: May 9, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
1)XT Components and Judy SL for a reasonable price.
2)Looks Cool in Atomic Green | | Weaknesses: |
1) The WTB SST saddle is hard on my butt. Does all saddle feels like that?
2) The Down tube resonates when travelling at high speed | | Bottom Line: | I owned an Avalanche Le '98. What interest me the first time I saw this bike is the Price, Components and Looks in that order. Price : Got it for S$1700. Best value for money compared with Cannondale, Trek and Fisher bikes. The highest GT Mountain bike model to be Made in Taiwan (Next model US made Zaskar too expensive).
Components : Previous bike I owned was a Fisher Mamba, with only Shimano Alivio components hich does not give a very good shifting and braking performnace. XT brakes/lever/shifters/r.deraileur/casettes was one of the factors I got the LE version instead of the standard Avalanche. No regrets. Judy SL has a more superior feel than my previous Quadra5
Looks : The unique frame design for GT caught my eye, followed by the branded accessories like Kore Stem, Titec handlebar, WTB Saddle and tires, Mavic rims, RS Fork, SPD clips and XT/LX parts. The Atomic Green frame confirmed my purchase.After 1 year of riding this bike, there was never an intention to change bike. However the WTB seat is a little too painful for my butt over long distance. Will not change it because the embroidery of the seat is too attractive to let go.If not for the hard seat and the frame giving resonance at high speed, I would have given this bike a Fiver rating
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rider
a Weekend Warrior
from carolina
Date Reviewed: May 7, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
UNCC | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
overall component mix
>>>z2bam shock | | Bottom Line: | after 2 months of reviewing hardtails in the 750-1000 price range the avalanche is the only way to go...once i got the bike home i was even more impressed. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Cross-Country Rider
from Plano, TX
Date Reviewed: March 28, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Great component mix, the fork is awesome, and the Time ATAC Alium pedals provide great acceleration. | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Rockhopper A1FS
K2 Zed X
Raleigh M600
Rocky Mountain Vapor | | Bottom Line: | I got a great deal on this bike at Phat Tire (Dallas TX) $200 off MSRP. The bike is light and fast and handles very well. The best hardtail in the $1000 proce range. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
eXodus
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary Alberta
Date Reviewed: March 21, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Bottom Line: | I am looking into buying a $1000 hardtail and the Avalanche looks like a great bike. Does anyone know how much it weighs thought? is it around 25 pounds? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Al
a weekend warrior
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: March 2, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought my Avalanche and I like it alot so far, the hot lime color rocks and the frame is welded with extreme precision.. And the Marzocchi suspension (who also do motocross and indy suspension) is awesome, its so smooth and with dampening control. Comes with XT in the back and LX crank and XT in the front.I say grab this bike.. It looks good, it rides well, and has good componentsRIDE ON
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Dixon
a weekend warrior
from Plymouth, UK
Date Reviewed: February 21, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
ALSO AVAILABLE FROM GT......
The 1998 GT Pantera with 6061 Aluminium frame, Deore LX components, Kore stem (worth £53), Mavic Rims and WTB Velociraptor tyres. Superb! Aire Valley Cycles at airevalleycycles.co.uk are offering £300 off this bike, now available at £400 (£600 with Rock Shox Judy). To all UK riders, this must be offer of the decade.
RRP £700
Offer price £399.99
Please reward Aire Valley and buy it today. I did- and it's brilliant. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ethan
a racer
from New Jersy
Date Reviewed: February 12, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I love my GT. It was a great deal and rides like a dream. The fork is the best. A good bike to buy for any cross-contry ride. The componits are woderful. I will always ride a GT because they make great bikes. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a racer
from Massachusetts
Date Reviewed: January 22, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I think this is a really good bike for the money. I saw it, went to another bike store, and came right back because I iliked it so much. This bike is really good | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
playagenz
a racer
from Canada
Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have purchased a GT AVALANCH almost two years ago. My sponsor loves it and so do I. It has been the toughest longest lasting bike I have had yet. although I have replaced every thing on it many times the frame is in mint condition. Every other bike I have had the frame has been the first to go. I can guarantee I will Ride a GT bike for the rest of my life in my opinion there is no other. it deserves more than a five star. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a cross-country rider
from Connecticut
Date Reviewed: December 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased the new GT Avalanche last week and have not stopped riding
it. The bike has a great set of components and feels great. I like the
nine speed a lot and I also like the mavic rims which feel so much lighter
than my old rims. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dude Love
a
from Iraq
Date Reviewed: November 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i love this bike it is the best bike i have ever seen it looks so good it is a chick magnet thank you GT for making such a killer bike | | Overall Rating: |
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