Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, Australia Date Reviewed: May 29, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Cycle City..........mate!
Strengths:
STRONG frame, cool colours and the components have worn amazingly well. I replaced the crank with Deore, rear mech and brakes with LX at sale. Since purchase I have replaced chains and cassettes regularly as expected but mechs, brakes, shifters and levers still going. Judy XC was very smooth but just upgraded to 2007 Reba Race. It's also nice to have people in bike stores oogling over 'The last of the old GT's'!
Weaknesses:
Rims are hard to keep 100% true but never taco'd. Stock saddle was like a rock.
Similar Products Used:
GT Tempest
Bike Setup:
Backwoods frame, Deore/LX drivetrain, 2007 Reba Race, BBB bell
Bottom Line:
Do your research, perform preventative maintenence and don't huck to flat from 2m!
Respect your bike and respect is what you get back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: August 10, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Strengths:
If you take the stock bike for what its worth, the only thing thats really worth anything is the frame. It is rock solid.
Weaknesses:
Components. Replace them and you have a killer XC bike
Bike Setup:
Backwoods frame, syncros riser bar/azonic riser, koski brake levers and rear brake, WTB stem, Deore shifters all around (these need replacing), Formula disc mounted to Real hub (switching to Avid ball bearing disc soon). Mavic 719 in rear and Mavic 329 disc rim in front, Azonic A-frame pedals, TruVativ Crank, Toothferrie bashgaurd, etc etc
Bottom Line:
Indestructable frame. I realize that it would have been more cost effective to just buy a better bike off the bat, but I didnt have the money at the time. I got it used. Slowly upgraded to what it is now and its a great bike. It was abused by my friend whom I bought it from and now I abuse it even more and it is holding up great. Ive taken up to four ft. drops, dirt jumps and it handles them well. If your into XC and want to build up a cheaper bike, get this frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Northants, England Date Reviewed: May 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The Stubbs
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
mail order company
Strengths:
solid frame, some decent components
Weaknesses:
Crappy rims, buckled my rear one relatively easily, terrible suntour cranks and rings
Similar Products Used:
Raleigh Max, Saracen Hakka
Bike Setup:
Mavic rims, Shorty stem, v-brakes, Raceface cranks, flat pedals every thing else as it came
Bottom Line:
Quality bike, will take most things you throw at it, the forks are able to take a lot of punishment. At home any where you take it, XC, downhill etc. If your looking for bike on a budget you cant go wrong with the backwoods.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Racer
from Santa Cruz, Ca Date Reviewed: December 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
east and west of twin gates
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
traded for 2000 timberline and 512MB of PC133
Strengths:
Solid ,very rigid, good handmade frame, GET ONE
Weaknesses:
cant fit more than a 2.4" tire w/36mm rim
Similar Products Used:
GT outpost frame
Bike Setup:
2000 GT Backwoods, Manotou Mars Comp Coil (80mm), Lx crank, Xt disc hubs on WTB laserdisc DH 36mm rims, Xt Derailers and shifters, Avid CPS mech. disc brakes, Panaracer Fire xc pro 2.1, Kore stricktly D bars, Cygo light night rover ni-cad extra, peice of crap seat.
Bottom Line:
If you can get one of these frames DO IT, I have heard that the stock setup kind of sucks but it is a good project bike.The frame is a little heavier than the 2000 outpost but its because the tubing is so much thicker.Buy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruce
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Albans, WV Date Reviewed: October 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mossy Rock in Kanawha State Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Looked cool, was able to resale it.
Weaknesses:
Wheels, disk brakes, crank, stem, all of which I had to replace within the 6 months that I had it. I know that I ride hard, but still, the parts should hold up longer than 6 months.
Similar Products Used:
I've had a few other bikes, but this one held up worse than any bike I've ever owned. I ended up breaking down and dropping a bunch of cash on my new love, my Gary Fisher Sugar 1. Talk about love at first sight. :)
Bottom Line:
Unless you get the bike cheap, and don't mind upgrading soon stay away from this bike. If you already have it, good luck, and I hope that your experience with your bike proves me wrong.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pin Head
a Racer
from San Jose, Ca USA Date Reviewed: October 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
ALL OF THEM
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
GREAT BIKE!
Weaknesses:
NONE
Bottom Line:
Sounds like another whiner to me! Take the fucking bike back if you don't like it and quit complaining about your stupidity... You Dumb Fuck!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, Oregon Date Reviewed: October 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Gresham bike
Strengths:
great handling at high speeds, especially downhill
Weaknesses:
Frame is too heavy, poorly assembled at factory
Similar Products Used:
Bridgestone, Trek, Gary Fisher, Kona
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
As with almost all the other reviews I've read, I too had problems with this bike. I had to replace the chain-the wrong size was put on. The wrong sized crank was also put on at the factory, and this ended up causing my rear derailer to break. Also the seat is a piece of junk-Gt replaced it. In fact all the problems I had were taken care of by GT. The dilemma I had with this bike is this- I'm 6'1', 195lbs. and it is nearly impossible to find a bike that fits me. I tried them all and the GT was the only one that was comfortable. What pisses me off is that it was NOT built very well. Apparently Bluto(the 225 pounder) hasn't done any serious enough riding to really test this bike- once you do you will have problems with it. Once you get all the bs worked out though, I think it is a great off-road bike. I also put slicks on it and the thing cruises.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pin Head
a Racer
from San Jose, CA USA Date Reviewed: September 1, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
ALL
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
GT never answered RANDY because they know he's a DICK!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tommy tank
a Downhiller
from new york Date Reviewed: July 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
dh
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
bikeshak
Strengths:
frame
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
dildo
Bike Setup:
trails beast
Bottom Line:
nice bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doug spencer
a
from baltimore,md,us Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
dead baby head
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
wheels bike shop
Strengths:
forks (not really), free water bottle.
Weaknesses:
you name it, it sucks!
Similar Products Used:
trek, gt, raleigh.
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
dont buy this piece of crap. my rusted out beach cruiser has more going for it than this bike. thanks GT. yet another pissed off customer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque Date Reviewed: April 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Foothills Trail/Ellena Gallegos
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$649.00
Purchased At:
Albuquerque Bicycle - Juan Tabo
Strengths:
Good Frame, Real & Shimano Hubs/Weinmann wheels, Koski Brakes & Levers. WTB Momentum Headset. Judy XC Suspension fork
Weaknesses:
Suntor Crank & Deore drive train. I had a ton of problems with chain suck. Called Gt Tech Support and they admitted they have recieved numerous compliants about it
Similar Products Used:
Giant Ranier SE
Bike Setup:
Had: Suntour crank/Deore drive train; OEM neck, seat post, Syncros low riser bar, Formula MD-1 Disk Brake
Bottom Line:
GT no longers makes this model, according the tech rep I spoke with it was because it compeated with a another brand line from a company owned by their parent company.
This is a good starter bike, but you should expect to pay for upgrades if you have one. I put on a complete Shimano XT drive train, Sid XC Fork, Thompson elite neck and seat post, Chris King Headset, RaceFace low Riser bar, & Selle Italia Flite Ti Gel Seat.....now this bike rocks, and I got the weight down closer to 25-lbs. I estimate is is less than 26, but will find out when I use digital scale at work next week. Original weight was 28-lbs, 10-oz...way too much.
I run some hard rock trails here in NM, and have had no trouble with the Weinmann wheelset that others have complained about. I also changed the tire to the IRC Mythos XC, which saved me a ton of weight. Now my front end is really light, and I notice it bigtime on uphills going ovet rocks.
The suntour crank was a mess, and my frame is nicked all to pieces from the chain suck problems. Will still need to change banged up chain, but with this XT setup, I would score this bike close to a 5. Why not a five? cause I did not go XTR. Some folks here rated this bike a 5, but sheesh, do you really think a 650 bike is better than a 2500$ bike? C,mon..be honest.
I rated this bike based on original components. With my upgrades this bike suits my needs now. For a bike this price, you should expect to make some upgrades..and i have no complaints about my purchase.
PS Koski Brake Lite Brake rock...they are lighter than XTR.. Formula MD-1 is a little heavy and will probabaly be replaced with AVID sometime down the road on my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester, CT, USA Date Reviewed: April 10, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$650.00
Strengths:
Good Bike! I like the nice white/red looks on it! I would have liked the black/blue on better though! Looks nice! Strong Disk brake although it has an annoying sqeak that sounds like a ghost. OK Seat.
Weaknesses:
Crappy Suntours! I couldn't believe that this expensive bike had these pieces of garbage! Mine broke already! HAd to change it!
Similar Products Used:
Dyno, GT
Bike Setup:
Added 2 drink cages, one Vistalite tail light, and one Vistalite Headlight!
Bottom Line:
Ok, this is not a bad bike, but if you want to spend a little more money, get a ZASKAR! Nice bikes! Good color! I got a great deal! Even brand new, at 850.00 good price for good bike! I took my bike up to Case Mountain, not a problem! Just the disk brake sqeaked loudly! Just change the pads! Nice Judy XC Fork, no problems yet! Good front hub! Downhill design when it comes to the handlebar area, you have to move your arms farther down than a different GT!Very eye-catching, I don't know why some people hate GT, they are a good company! They make nice bikes, the Backwoods is a good example! Try it to see for your self.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: March 31, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$750.00
Strengths:
Frame is rock solid. Judy XC is good unless serious about racing.Syncros riser bar is nice.
Weaknesses:
Most everything else on the bike
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F400, Gary Fisher Tassajara, Raleigh M80
Bike Setup:
Deore drivetrain, Continental town &country, Deore front v-brake
Bottom Line:
My friends and I all got new bikes at one point or another last year. I got the Cannondale, my girlfriend got the Raleigh and a friend of mine got this GT after being in love with his '96 pantera. From the get go he had problems. I believe the first problem he had was the disk locking up completely, having to be replaced. Spokes then started breaking at an alarming rate. The Middle chain ring on that garbage suntour crank bent so bad that the whole crank needed replacing. Spokes are still breaking and the shop now says he needs a new rear rim after less than a year of primarily urban riding. He basically had to replace over half of the components within the first year, costing him an extra couple hundred that could have easily gone to a Zaskar or any other high end bike initially. He also experienced the chain problems before changing the crank. This is caused by a mismatched drive train consisting of eight speed shifters, cranks, and chain next to nine speed derailers. Everyone else on here seems to think this is a great bike and it probably is because GT usually has a high level of quality, but my friend's experience should be taken into consideration when shopping. Value is Two and would get more if constant breaking didn't occur. The frame and fork are great, though. One overall for obvious reasons.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randall Pogue
a Weekend Warrior
from Perryton, TX Date Reviewed: March 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Palo Duro CYN
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$875.00
Purchased At:
Southwest Bicycle Center, Liberal, KS
Strengths:
Solid, reliable, dependable and smooth. I had to replace the Suntour cranks after about 300 miles, but other than that, this bike has unquestionable fortitude.
Weaknesses:
Only the Suntour cranks have given me any problems.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000, Gt Outpost
Bike Setup:
Stock except:Deore crankset, Rockshox seatpost, and Azonic stem.
Bottom Line:
I just got back from Moab yesterday, and I rode most of the major trails. I weigh 225. I had exactly ZERO mechanical problems with this bike. Randy from wisconsin, perhaps you should get a HUFFY, or maybe badminton would be a sport more suited to you. If anyone is having trouble with this bike, either they worked on it themselves thinking they were mechanics, or the bike shop they got it from assembled it wrong. I will admit the disk takes some break in and adjustment from time to time, but nothing to cry about. If you can find one of these baby's, jump on it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Ward
a Cross Country Rider
from Rotherham,S.Yorks, England Date Reviewed: February 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Pinchmill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
JE James
Strengths:
Its got a very nice light,strong frame with a gusset which makes it strong. Disc brake mounts. The fork is a good choice for this bike, its very responsive. It has good kit on for the money with no bad parts.(£700)
I got this bike on insurance and i am really pleased with it. It has lived up to expectations so far with no complaints. It's smooth and responsive, the best bike ive had so far!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a Cross Country Rider
from Appleton, WI, USA Date Reviewed: February 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Baird Creek, Green Bay, WI
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Neenah Bike and Fitness
Strengths:
Good frame geometry. Looks good. Ritchey pedals.
Weaknesses:
Rims are cheap. Disk brake has free running drag. Crank is terrible. No-name seatpost. Seat sucks. Cheap handgrips. Not impressed with Judy XC fork. Koski rear brake and calipers.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Kaitai
Bike Setup:
Replaced crankset with XT. Replaced front and rear brakes with Avid Arch-Rival 5.0. Replaced rims with Bontrager Clydes w/LX hubs. Replaced tires. Replaced front derailleur w/ XT.
Bottom Line:
Shop around. I guarantee you will find a better bike for the money. Look at Gary Fishers and K2s.
By the way, GT's customer service is non-existant. I sent a letter of complaint about the disk brake in September and still have not gotten a reply of any kind (January).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Bobalouski
a Cross Country Rider
from SF Bay Area,Ca USA Date Reviewed: January 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Coyote Peak, Quick Silver Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
ST Bikes
Strengths:
Everything Still going strong... Almost 1000 miles on it!
Weaknesses:
Nothing at this time.... Don't know what these guys are whining about?
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Specialized, and all the other junk!
Bike Setup:
Factory Stock
Bottom Line:
Like I said before it's a hell of a bike. It hauls my Big Ass around very well... I don't know why the other guy's have so many problems? If anyone is going to stress this bike I think it would be me! Just because of my Height and Weight alone then add my Strength... I guess some folks like to put the highest price parts on a bike just to show off and wreck'em? GT has made a fine product and hasn't failed me yet! It has been in the shop for normal maintenance and thats about it.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL THE WHINERS!!!
Oh Yeah, Sell the GT bike if it sucks that bad and get a Specialized or Turkey, I mean Trek! or some other high priced flashy, Cool named look at me!!!! Bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from Hastings, Nebraska, USA Date Reviewed: December 30, 2000
This bike is awesome!! about the only thing bad is that the frame is stiff, but I just forked over a little more cash to buy a suspension seatpost and now it's just fine. I took it on a few trails and I couldn't believe what was underneith of me for the price I paid. This is definately one of-if not the-best entry-level bike on the market. Do yourself a favor and buy it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Fowler
a Cross Country Rider
from Chatham, Il, USA Date Reviewed: November 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
WheelFast Cyclery
Strengths:
Frame, Fork, and thats about it
Weaknesses:
Drive train, rims, and seat
Bike Setup:
shimano XT derailers, shimano LX crankset, sun disk specific front rim, syncros big box rear rim, selle italia flite gel saddle, time atac clipless pedles
Bottom Line:
I have had numerous problems with this bike. The drive train, all of it had to go I trashed the suntour crank which inturn messed up my front derailer which then srewed up my rear derailer. My bike shop was great got the LX XT setup for 90 bucks. I tacoed the front rim had to replace it. The rear rim was put together wrong in the factory so GT replaced it with the sycros rim which is very cool. The seat had to go so I ditched it for the selle italia. Over all this bike is good but for the money I have had many many problems. I would think long and hard about buying another GT. The only redeming factor about GT is that they have done me right thus far. So what I have had to do is replace just about every piece on the bike except for the frame and the fork. My bike in its current state is wonderful I wouldnt trade it for the world, but it took toooo much work to get it there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas Date Reviewed: October 3, 2000
Before considering this bike, look at the rims at ask yourself do you want Weimans, also the cheap Suntour crank. After three months I noticed that my chain rings are becoming stripped. I have spoken with GT about the rims, that I taco'd the front wheel on a cobblestone trail after doing a endo, the wheel gave away at the seam, and GT says things like this happen and they will not be replacing it. Their cust service is awful they like to ignore emails, suprised I was able to get them by phone. After owning their product for only 3 months, and experiencing problems like this. I'll never own another GT--going back to TREK
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Biker 182
a Weekend Warrior
from Nanaimo, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: September 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything cool
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
grips wore out in 2 weeks! That's about it though.
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Jett xc long travel, Go Fast Traction pedals, shimano parts, Avid brakes, Rokko tires.
Bottom Line:
Kick butt bike! If you are looking for a good bike that can do anything from cross-country racing to free riding, this is the way to go! If you live on Vancouver island, be sure to check out Chain Reaction Bicycles for the best deals around!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
XShadowz
a Weekend Warrior
from Northern Virginia Date Reviewed: September 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Strengths:
New triple-triangle design frame, RockShox Judy XC
Weaknesses:
Front disc brake, Suntour crank, stock saddle
Bike Setup:
Specialzed BodyGeo MTB saddle, platform peddles, Shimano LX front V-brake, the rest is stock.
Bottom Line:
Great frame, not the best components. Bike shop could not get the front disc to brake as well as it should, so I changed to Shimano LX V-brake. Suntour crank pretty sorry for a bike of this caliber. RockShox Judy XC has been great, though a tad heavy (4.5lbs). Front tire broke at the seam (covered under warranty). Overall, very good bike for XC riding, great frame and front shocks. You may find yourself upgrading a few components though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy Pogue
a Weekend Warrior
from Perryton, TX Date Reviewed: September 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
GSL in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$875.00
Purchased At:
Southwest Bicycle Center, Liberal, KS
Strengths:
Good components, good price, looks great, fantastic handling
Weaknesses:
Hard seat. That's it!
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000, Trek 6000
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the following:Rock Shox seatpost w/2000 GT Agressor seat, and Agressor pedals with clips.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I have taken it up the ski lifts in Red River NM, to Palo Duro CYN, and I ride it daily. I have had no problems with the bike or its stock components. The disc brake, when PROPERLY adjusted, grips like a fly on flypaper! I weigh about 230, and the bike takes all I can give it, and does'nt even break a sweat. I replaced the seat first thing, and I like clips, but other than that GT has put together a fabulous bike. I would recommend this bike to anyone who wants to actually ride a mountain bike the way it was intended to, and not worry about a breakdown!However, if you are just getting a bike for fitness to cruise around town, this bike may be a little much. It's designed for off road use, and can get a little uncomfortable on long street rides of 5 miles or more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Fowler
a Cross Country Rider
from Chatham IL, USA Date Reviewed: September 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
lick creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great frame as before. Judy Rock Shox.
Weaknesses:
The major weakness is with the drive train......Suntour...yuck. I have had numerable problems with it.
Similar Products Used:
as before
Bike Setup:
stock except for time atac pedels and and new crank set.....yet to be detirmined...
Bottom Line:
This is my second review of the Backwoods. This bike is great for a mid level bike. But the drive train is fairly crapy. The Suntour crankset has to go.....im debating between Race Face Prodgie (My bike shop has one from a Giant cheap)or Shimano XT. Had it for a few months and the teeth on the second chain ring are trashed.....dont know why i dont shift under load. I would recomend upgrading the crank set immendiately.....like when you buy it and the seat too......i havent gotten around to that yet cause it does work.......lol...unlike the freakin crank set.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alex
a Weekend Warrior
from plantation, fl Date Reviewed: September 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
west broward bicycle center
Strengths:
great frame, light weight, syncros products, JUDY XC, great wheels, easy maintnence. although the md-1 disk brake isnt super strong when the rims get wet and the rear brake isnt gripping as well the md-1 is a pretty good safety net to stop
Weaknesses:
the sdg seat hurts u where it counts and the suntour cranks need to go
Bike Setup:
stock xcept for platform pedals
Bottom Line:
this is a really good bike for the money. the disk brake is a plus if where u ride whre it gets wet often but if not get a vee brake (they are a bit grippier). the koski brake is very powerful but screeches horribly for a little while (about a minute to a minute and a half) and looses a little bit of gripping power if the rim wall gets wet. the judy xc is way plush it does wut it is supposed to do get harder as the shock is compressed. the syncros and shimano components are great. they are really dependable and work very nicely. the triple triangle frame is really cool and takes some vibration off the seat post and ur rear end. well since im talkin about that the d@#m seat hurts. thats the first thing that must go. If u have the money get better cranks they will work for a while but after several really hard rides they'll start to show some wear.
i would recommend this bike instead of buyin some full suspension bike for the same price that has junky components and wont last for a month. the judy is great. rides really smooth. it give it fve flamin chilis
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: August 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
front eye
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
bike trax
Strengths:
Frame - had to take my first one back as the bike shop sold me a small and i am 5'8 - now got a medium which is much better with the addititons i've made. The drive train is pretty poor especially the cranks which are just poor. Plan to get a suspension seatpost and upgrade the cranks and possibly the mechs. Can't understand why you would want to spend anymore on a bike in the sub £1000 bracket as you won't get more bang for your buck!
Weaknesses:
Cranks are poor Saddle poorish Drivetrain could be LX
Similar Products Used:
GT Zaskar Trek 7000 GT Tempest
Bike Setup:
Standard, however have added Easton EA70 risers which open up the bike and transform the control and riding position. Also added Easton "fatboy pedals" because the standard ones are useless. Both have RADICALLY changed the bike
Bottom Line:
Why spend any more on a sub £1000 bike - you have all the basics to build upon here where you can spend the surplus on getting the parts you want. Fat tubing is mint - only other bike I would really condsider is Kona and you won't get as much for your money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ragin' cajun
a Weekend Warrior
from Louisiana Date Reviewed: August 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any one that has large rocks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The frame is super beefy and made in the U.S.A. too. It's hard to believe the bike is as light as it is with the size of its tubing. Judy XC works well, good component spec, and killer paint job. A serious looking bike with its glacier blue/black paint. *price*
Weaknesses:
The saddle is way to small, and as hard as a rock. Also, the disc brake works pretty well, but in my opinion the rear Koski "brake-lite" caliper brake stops better. Maybe the disc brake just needs to wear in. I don't know. Other than that, everything works great so far.
Similar Products Used:
Tested the Rebound Anatomica
Bike Setup:
I got this bike a week ago, and have not had time to get any new components, so its stock.
Bottom Line:
This bike is absolutely the best I've seen for the money. I got mine for $675 at a local bike dealer, but it is still worth the original list price of $869. This bike hauls up hills with little effort, and is super smooth and rock solid down the other side. All the components work well, and the Judy XC works better than any other fork I've tried. This bike is pretty light too, which is a big plus. Handling is very responsive, and Tioga tires grip like hell. If you're on a budget and looking for a quality XC bike, look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan McCann
a Downhiller
from AUSTRALIA Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fox Creek on Mt. Loftly, Adelaide
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
This frame is just simply SICK. The headtube angle is sooo, sooo sweeet. Awesome paint too, i ordered mine from GT in U.S.A, the paint is the same as on the website, i hate the turqoise/black you usually get. Deore is good, and the black shifters look good on my black Azonic DH bars. Awesome bike.
Weaknesses:
The front disc is absolutely crap. Trade it for some good V brakes, then get rid of the seat. Owwwwch that thing is hard. Rid the syncros risers and get some real DH bars on there. The Judy XC is okay-ish, i guess good for XC-ing.
Similar Products Used:
Norco Nitro, DMR Trailstar
Bike Setup:
Jr.T fork (awesome stuff), DMR V8 Pedal, Azonic Shorty Stem and Azonic DH Bar, Mavic X223 rims, Oury DH Grips, Deore LX V brakes.
Bottom Line:
This Bike ROCKS! is is sooooooo sweeeeeet. The frame is just so beatiful and fat, and you can do anything to the frame and make it look sick. If you are a dual slalom-er or downhiller, like myself, trade the Judy XC fork to something better, get rid of that dodgy disc on the front, and go reace on your machine. This frame is so good that it is like cheating. Gt are Einsteins. Good stuff GT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake Sweeney
a Cross Country Rider
from Manteca Ca USA Date Reviewed: August 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great front fork. wieght is excellent. Bike has good balance. Colors are cool.Bike comes in a variety of sizes. wich is impotant i am a big man. the componets are top notch
Weaknesses:
had to replace the seat it was hard as a rock. disc screeches when it is wet but works good. this bike does seem to have a problem with the chain but i haven't experienced it yet. it also has some play in the shifter but i guess it needs a tune up
Similar Products Used:
speacialized rock hopper
Bike Setup:
stock except for seat (had to replace that with a softer saddle) those of you who have that seat know why. planning on replacing front disc with a hydrolic brake and add one to the rear.
Bottom Line:
Great bike cant go wrong buying this one. for a little money you can up grade a few componets and make yourself a top quality bike. or you can keep it stock and have a bike your friends will admire and want for a good few years
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lester
a Cross Country Rider
from reading, pa Date Reviewed: July 28, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
solid frame going both up and down hills. rock shox judy xc helps smoothe the ride. stock ritchy peddles a definate plus. sweet looking bike. price
Weaknesses:
front disc breaks scretches like nothing i've ever heard. it does the job but there is definate room for improvement. endos are a challenge. chain tends to pop off on rought downhills.
Similar Products Used:
giant, specialized
Bike Setup:
added a tooth fairy chainring guard to save my teeth (crucial where i live), coda barends, a good deal of electrical tape to help with chain slape (i'm cheap and it works)
Bottom Line:
a great all around bike. i plan on getting an avid mechanical front disc brake to finish it off. a real fun ride and for the price you can't beat it. i weigh around 215 and can really abuse equipment and this bike handles it perfectly. i definatly would recomend it to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Megan the mountainbikess
a Cross Country Rider
from Eastern Wa Cascades Date Reviewed: July 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere, as long as it's not work...
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Bombproof. I've been in at least two wrecks that involved the emergency room, besides the other stuff. Looks like it's been abused, but still going strong after 6+ years. It also fit me very well, which has saved much wear and tear on the knees. If you're looking for a bike on a budget, this is a serious contender. Remember, you won't care about saving a few hundred bucks on a bike from Cosco if you're stuck 12 miles from the trailhead with a break- down.
Weaknesses:
I had a problem w/ the rear hub not too long after I got it, but I suspect it was a rare defect. Since then I've had to overhaul the drive train, but what do you expect after 6 years?
Similar Products Used:
Dimondback, Trek, Cannondale
Bike Setup:
Oldie. Just got shocks on it last year. Old cantiliver brakes. Since I'm in the mountains now, I switched the rear cluster for one 2 teeth bigger, and got the smallest ring on the front that I could. Chain sucks now and then, but the climbing power is worth it in the vertical world around here.
Bottom Line:
I paid more for this bike as I did for my first car. Both are still running! Pretty amazing after all the dives and the miles- even my husband is impressed that it survived my rather careless treatment. Whatever you ride, wear a helmet- the one I bought just to be legal saved my life.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, Tx Date Reviewed: July 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any trail thats dirty enough
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The Rockshox Judy XC, Shimnao Deore components, and Front disk brake. Cool paint job Glacier Blue/Black.
Weaknesses:
The SR Suntour Crank(little chain stick), and that hard a$$ saddle! Other than that this bike rocks!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Tested Trek 7000, Giant Raineer, Gary Fisher Big Suhr, and Specialized Rockhopper Comp.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the pedals, went with straps. Seen way too many riders crash and burn!
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome. Climbs like a goat(I use to flip my Trek 7000 when trying to climb, then some a$$ ripped it off), and it fast on descents! Can't believe no more brake squeel at all from the back, front disk is o.k. Wanting to upgrade to the Avid mechanical disk brakes. All in all this bike is great with what it offers with all the name brand components--offers alot of bang for the buck!!!!!!!! Does anyone know the weight of the 2000 model, cause it feels real close to the TREK 7000. As for the triple triangle design of the GT looks awesome, don't know its history.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Corey Hanson
a Weekend Warrior
from Big Lake, MN Date Reviewed: July 17, 2000
a bit heavy, painfully hard seat, chain sticks a little but is getting better.
Bike Setup:
replaced pedals with Easton Cully platforms, added bar ends, maybe throw in a RockShox seat tube but I'm hearing negative things about that.
Bottom Line:
I researched alot of bikes and this one seems to have the most bang for a buck. Well built and engineered, it has quality parts and accessories too. I'm a big guy and I think this bike handles me well. Perfect bike for someone who isn't a professional racer but wants a decent bike for around $1000.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Fowler
a Cross Country Rider
from Chatham,Illinois, USA Date Reviewed: July 6, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Judy XC fork-very plush front disk brake-wonderful in wet conditions Frame-love the tripile triangle.....it just looks cool
Weaknesses:
SDG comp seat-hard as a freakin rock chain-seems to want to fall off on uphills
Similar Products Used:
Giant Igauna, Gary Fisher Aquilla
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Time ATAC peddles......gotta have em in the mud.
Bottom Line:
This really is a great bike. It does very well for cross country riding and would suffice for some downhill ridding (Judy XC can adjust to 100mm travel :-). I have had some troubles with the chain...but I hope with a bit of time and adjustment those will work themselves out. The seat must be upgraded......it sucks unless u like being saddle sore. For the money I am more than please this is a bike. With a few upgrades this bike will last me a long long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Quist
a Cross Country Rider
from Yokota Air Base, Japan Date Reviewed: July 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anthing
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Judy Shock, Deore components, especially the Rapid-Fire shifters.
Weaknesses:
None noticed yet, although I plan to replace the cranks with the HollowTech set this summer (just superstitious, I guess).
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback, Hard Rock, Trek 8000
Bike Setup:
Tioga Tires, Complete Shimano drivetrain (down to the hubs)Kioski (?) saddle. Other stuff
Bottom Line:
I ride every day, to and from work. This bike seems lighter than my Trek and oh, so nimble. The shifters are smooth, and the ride on the Judy is elegant. Regardless of the weather, I look forward to riding this baby anytime, anywhere. For the money, I don't think you'll find a better bike out there. Great for first time riders, or the serious biker as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Bobaluoski
a Weekend Warrior
from SF Bay Area, USA Date Reviewed: June 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Coyote Peak 1100 ft Climb
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Everything, I know you have heard it before it's bullet proof. Front shocks,big hefty tires,very strong frame, front disc brake, the best handling.... What else is left to say???
Weaknesses:
None that can be found, except it only comes in 2 colors...
Similar Products Used:
Trek600, Moab, Specialized "junk"
Bike Setup:
Totally Stock, only upgrade would be bar ends and pedals.
Bottom Line:
This bike is one of the strongest that I have had a chance to ride. First off let me tell you that I'm not your average sized Mtn.Biker, I'm 6'7" and run about 330lbs. I am a former world class track and field discus & shot putter. I can create a world of torque far beyond the normal human... So I've been told? When I stand up in the pedals to haul up a hill that's what I'm doing. But the bike does not complain a bit, It just say's is that all ya got!!! and laughs at me... But on a serious note this bike is great for myself or anyone else who wants a bike that won't fall apart under heavy duty conditions. I think I have put it to the test! I give it 5 flaming dogs!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zack
a Weekend Warrior
from Massachusetts Date Reviewed: June 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
*Has a front Disc Brake and it works great *Rock Shox Judy front shock is awesome plenty of travel *Big Beefy Tioga tires *Strong frame and rims
Weaknesses:
*The Chain got stuck and fell off when I first used it. But is perfect now it doesn't fall off at all or do anything wrong
Similar Products Used:
DiamondBack
Bike Setup:
All Stock. except pedals, I took the clipless pedals off and put on pedals with clips, I wanted to get used to the bike before getting used to the pedals. THe only other thing I had to put on the bike because it didn't come with it were Bar ends and a bottle holder.
Bottom Line:
The Bike works great, I haven't had any problems with it. You get a lot for your money, great shock, Disc brake, huge tires, double wall rims, Deore components, Gt's triple triangle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a mtb rider
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston MA, USA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
For the price you can't beat this setup. Formula md-1 disc brake, Judy XC suspension, Syncros bars, Tioga tires, and Deore components, just to name a few.
Weaknesses:
chain tends to come off when you really beat on the bike.(but trust me this bike can take a beating)
Similar Products Used:
Canondale, Haro, Trek, Specialized
Bottom Line:
A good bike for someone who is looking for a high quality dependable piece of equipment. I have pushed this bike hard, and only needed to do light tune up. I would deffinetly recomend this bike to anyone who is serious about mountain biking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gene Brennan
a Cross Country Rider
from BlueMtns,NSW,Australia Date Reviewed: May 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Oaks
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
everything about the Backwoods is great. It can be used on just about any trail and it handles great.
Weaknesses:
bit of chainsuck, but overall pretty much nothing lets this bike down.
Similar Products Used:
GtZaskar, Principia
Bike Setup:
All the good stuff, nothing wasted on this supurb bike.
Bottom Line:
This is a great and semi-inexpensive bike that can handle anything you give it, from lung-busting hill climbs to technical downhills, this bike will take you into biking heaven.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BJ
a Cross Country Rider
from THOUSAND OAKS, CA USA!!! Date Reviewed: April 27, 2000
I DIDNT SEE IT COMING, NEW TRAIL, DOWN HILL, THEN BOOM 7 FOOT CLIFF DROP, i WAS IN MID AIR AND LANDED SMOOTHER THAN I HAD EVER EXPECTED! YOU WOULD NOT BELIEVE IT! GT ARE SOLID BIKES AND THIS NEW BACKWOODS LIVES UP TO ITS PRICE! THE COMPONENTS ARE SO DIRECTLY ENGINEERED FOR GT...IT JUST PROVES TO ME EVEN MORE THAT SHIMANO PREFERS THEIR PRODUCTS ON GT BIKES MORE THAN ANY OTHER BIKE MADE! MY BUDDY WORKS FOR SHIMANO....I SHOULD KNOW...EITHER THAN THAT...I HAVE TO HAND ALOT OF IT TO THE JUDY FORK FOR THE LANDING TOO...WHAT AN AWESOME EXPERIENCE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Wazup
a Cross Country Rider
from Shorewood, IL, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: April 24, 2000
-the chain comes off or gets jammed alot,but besides that nothin else
Similar Products Used:
-trek 6500
Bike Setup:
7005 series aluminum, GT Triple Triangle design frame with pro tampered downtube and rear disc mount.
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome mountain bike for the price. Its great for in wet or muddy terain. Formula MD-1 mechanical front disc brake and helps when its wet too. This is a good bike for compatition cross country riders. The main strong point on this bike is its awesome handeling ability
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from MA. Date Reviewed: April 17, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great Handling, good fork, good disc brake.
Weaknesses:
some chain suck probably needs to be settled in.
Similar Products Used:
schwinn moab, Mongoose Hilltopper
Bike Setup:
Stock as of now, haven't broken anything yet!
Bottom Line:
I think this bike is great. I paid $640.00 at Whitco in spencer MA. Can't beat that! All other shops say $800.00. This bike climbs, handles, and has descent components. I would definitely recommend this bike to people looking for a great value on an aluminum hardtail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Murray
a Cross Country Rider
from Port Talbot Date Reviewed: April 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Baglan Woods
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good front suspension, rear wheel disc brake, 27 gears for high speed on road use I like. Solid high quality frame.
Weaknesses:
Bloody little springy thing that catches when wearing trousers.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Nail Trail, Trek something or other
Bike Setup:
unknown
Bottom Line:
An excellent quality bike for the £600 price frame. Perfect for quick shortcuts up forrest trails to dodge traffic which is what I use it for.
If you'r looking for the best bike for around £600 then get this one, and everyone will look at the big GT sign on the side.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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