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Submitted by
vito burger
a Downhiller
from santa cruz
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | mail box UCSC | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | E-bay | | Strengths: | Its a good down hill bike and it can take 10 foot drops like nothing.It can also do jumps. Its a good bike for everything and it pedals super good. | | Weaknesses: | the stock shock sucks so you need to get a different one I have a 5th elemnt and it pimpin.It kind of a tall bike. | | Similar Products Used: | big hit | | Bike Setup: | 5th elemnt shock,boxxer ride forks,azonic bars,Deore derailer set up,double track front rim,WTB laser disc rear rim,kenda kinetics front tire,maxxis mobster rear tire,hayes nine brakes | | Bottom Line: | this bike is the best bike for around here because theres nothing that huge only like some 10 or 20 foot drops.The linkege is kind of bad but thats not that big of a problem you just need to upgrade it to the E-13 linkege and then its all good. Its pretty much a copy of a big hit but I still love it. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas
a Downhiller
from Queensbury
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | The 5th element shock, is one of the best out there. The Frame is very strong. | | Weaknesses: | The fork isnt adjustable. The bike is quit heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Diamondback xts 2003(worst bike in the world) | | Bike Setup: | Boxxer race, 5th element shock, size-large, azonic seat | | Bottom Line: | Overall a great bike for downhill. Very forgiving on dropoffs. I would deffinatly buy it again. The bike is a tank. Wont break for a while. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
johnny
a Downhiller
from Whistler, B.C.
Date Reviewed: December 3, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | A-line | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Strengths: | This is a great bike that can handle anything I throw at it!! Which is a lot!!Its a tank!! Also, great suspension system, it has great flow!! | | Weaknesses: | The only one is the weight. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Big Hit, Kona Stinky dee-lux, Santa Cruz VP free | | Bike Setup: | Stock and loving it! | | Bottom Line: | What can i say? Great bike for a great price!! If you are looking for a bike you can huck around, then pedal it back home again, this bikes for you! If you want a serious downhill bike, this bikes for you, if you want a street bike, road bike, or XC bike, try something else! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J.J. Keys
a Downhiller
from Mahwah, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Diablo Freeride park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Campmor | | Strengths: | This thing is amazing!!!! It puts up with anything the trail can dish out. The manitous on the front and the rear are plush and smooth all the time. It handles like a dream and I love the bashguard. | | Weaknesses: | its pretty heavy but all of the strengths make it more than a great bike. | | Bike Setup: | Iron Horse SGS pro for downhill. And haro extreme2.0 with dj 1s for dirt jumps | | Bottom Line: | this bike is awesome. It was such a deal I had to get it. The bike is a tank, it handles drops and rocks like nothing, its a little on the heavy side but that is the ONLY thing I would change. Awesome bike for the money, I would not want anything else. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a Downhiller
from D-F, MAINE
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1750.00 | | Purchased At: | local shop | | Strengths: | It is painted army green and it is for a reason. It is a tank. | | Weaknesses: | some components | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky | | Bike Setup: | stock. just added Azonic love seat. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome for the money. When I was getting into downhilling I looked at a bunch of bikes. Everyone said that I needed to spend minimum $4000 for a complete downhill package. This bike for less than half that is more than I need. I go to attitash, NH maybe 10 times a year and it has held up flawlessly. Don't be stupid buy an Iron Horse and save your money for lift tickets. and GAS to get there. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Buchanan
a Downhiller
from Santa Clara
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Magic Carpet (UCSC) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Private party | | Strengths: | Great bike... especially for the killer deal I got it for. | | Weaknesses: | Weight. | | Similar Products Used: | N/a | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock with Oury grips. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike besides the weight, but if you can overlook that, then it's amazing. Manitou Sherman front fork is ballsy, and really takes a beating. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a
from Silverthorne, CO
Date Reviewed: June 26, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Silverton & Keystone | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo(before they were performance 2) | | Strengths: | You get a lot of bike for the price! Very well spec'd. Bike is overbuilt, which is great in a downhill bike. Rides like a tank, and gives the rider a lot of confidence. Love the plush 5th element! | | Weaknesses: | Like it says in previoius reviews, there is a bit of lateral flex in the rear AND you will have to upgrade the stem, grips, saddle and seatpost immediately. | | Bike Setup: | Easton Vice stem, ODI lockon grips, Thomson seatpost and Atomic love seat replacements. Upgraded the fork springs to X-firm. Everything else is stock. | | Bottom Line: | I am a big guy and have been riding this bike hard for 2 seasons, and going strong into my 3rd. It has held up really well. I have no complaints. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Petey
a Downhiller
from New Canaan CT USA
Date Reviewed: September 13, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | ol 9 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Silver Cycles | | Strengths: | 5th element, cranks, PEDALS, bars PRICE | | Weaknesses: | 03 link probs, boxxer race kinda sucks, stem | | Similar Products Used: | 02 big hit pro | | Bike Setup: | New romic stem and crown for boxxer plus mojo cartridge uipgrade(essentials) new link | | Bottom Line: | this is a really fast nice CHEAP downhillbike. altough it is cheap and has nice stock stuff, it is a good idea to upgrade some things the stem will def brak on you so get a new one, upgrade the fork or buy a new one, and the new linkage is a good idea, but it makes it a lot heavier but a lot better. this bike is sick for the money, and if u dont have a lot to spend this is a sick race bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Lacey
a Downhiller
from Glastonbury, CT, USA
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Bolton | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1999.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | 5th element, maxxis tires, e13 guide and bashring. | | Weaknesses: | seat, stem, fork...but these were all switched out. I have a '04 Manitou Slider Plus now. The biggest weakness of this product has nothing to do with the bike...but rather Iron Horse customer service. Back in January I noticed my der. hanger was constantly coming loose. I broke one, put the replacement on, and ended up breaking that one too. I learned the threads were stripped on the swingarm, so I contacted IHBC and sent away for a replacement February 4, 2004. It is now July 20, 2004, and I still do not have all the parts I need. Initially it took them 5 months to send anything...and when they did I only recieved part of my replacement. It's taken another 4 weeks just to get in contact with them. And now, they told me they would send the part out. So we'll see what happens now. It's a shame, because I really enjoyed riding this bike, but now, I don't think I will buy from Iron Horse ever again. | | Similar Products Used: | 2003 Kona Stinky Dee-Luxx | | Bike Setup: | 03 SGS pro, sherman slider plus, azonic short, azonic love seat, Yeti grips, 5th element, race face 25" bar | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. Great value. Horrible customer service. If this does not bother you like it does for me, go for it. Make sure you switch out that Boxxer race also. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Red
a Weekend Warrior
from Bellingham, WA
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | gailbrath | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1699.00 | | Strengths: | 5th element rear shock,Boxxer Race fork,(boxxers are sweet,I don't give a SH!T what anyone says!)Holzfeller crankset are the 3 main standouts. Also the LX/XT/E13/Laserdisc/formula/maxxis parts package is sweet for the price. | | Weaknesses: | Too much lateral flex in the rear. I don't think you should have to buy a $300 upgrade on a race oriented downhill bike to stop it from flexing! Hayes HFX-HD 9's SUCK! Almost NO local bike shops carry these so you either have to buy them used or from mail order companies. | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first downhill specific full suspension bike.
Prior to this bike I did my downhilling/freeriding on a KONA stinky, which despite marketing attempts, is a trail bike! | | Bike Setup: | Switched out the ringle 2bolt stem for a 4bolt azonic shorty. Added an Azonic love seat but kept the stock azonic seatpost. I've heard so many people complain about this seatpost,It has been fine for me, no probs at all. Traded the 44T ring for a smaller 38T that I can actually pedal if needed. Replaced the grips for odi rogue lock jaws. The LX shifter broke, so I upgraded to an XT. Everything else is stock. | | Bottom Line: | This bike rides like a downhill wet dream. It feels bombproof and increases the size of your cajones by at least 50%!
I can't believe the technology in the rear fork. It does exactly what it's supposed to do and soaks up every hit while keeping your rear tire on the ground.
And the suspension in the front is like butter. I have no idea what all the fuss is about. All the guys I ride with, and all the morons that submit internet reviews bash the boxxer...I couldn't disagree more. I had an 02 JR.T on my last bike and the boxxer has a much better feel, and comes set-up perfectly for a 180lb rider with no initial adjustments needed. With regular maintenence, I'll be riding this fork far into the future!
My biggest beef out of all the parts is with the brakes. HFX-9's Suck the big one! Upgrade to the Mag's right away and sell the nines on ebay "as newj" to some poor schlub who doesnt know any better. You'll spend more time and money on adjustments and brake pads from disc rub with the nines than if you just put the extra cash into mags right from the start.
If it wasnt for the lateral flex in the rear, and having to spend 3 bills for the upgrade, I'd give this bike a perfect rating. But all together I've had to spend about $500 additional(including the small parts upgrades like the seat/stem etc...)to get it where I want it. So that's minus 1 pepper for overall. I would also take a half pepper off the value, b/c I had to shell out mo money to get the bike where it needed to be, but I think a full pepper is too harsh, so I'll keep it at five. In a perfect rating system I'd give the bike 4 overall and 4.5 for value... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad
a
from Vermont
Date Reviewed: March 4, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Beefy as hell. The suspension is so plush, the 5th is really nice. It is a great deal for the quality components that come with the bike. It is a great buy just for the parts alone. | | Weaknesses: | The front ring is way too big. Also it is tough if you want to run more than one chainring in the front. Some home mods will do the trick though. The stem and seatpost are garbage. | | Bottom Line: | It is one of the best deals you can find for such a high quality bike. It wasn't named the 2003 dh bike of the year for looking good. It really delivers with plush suspension and quality parts at a good price. I was hesitant about forking over 1600 but the bike is well worth spending 2000+. Great bike overall. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jiri Senkyrik
a Cross Country Rider
from renton
Date Reviewed: March 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | tapewarm | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1799.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance bike shop | | Strengths: | breaks,plushness,overall toughness,rear shock,
Crank, E.13 thing. i added it up you pay like -70 buks for the frame. Pedals are actually really good | | Weaknesses: | Huge front chain ring which is no prob if your just using it for DH. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I got performance to match the price that was on the interenet. Cause i wasnt about to buy a bike of the interenet. so i got it for 1799.99 and life time free service. anyways i went of a few 6 foot drops and it felt like butter, once you get the 5th element set up the way you like it the bike is good to go, the only thing i would change on it is the seat post. lots of people complain about the fork but since i only weigh a 135 pounds i dont think it matters for me. For the price i payed this bike kiks butt, i havent really tested it out at like whistler or anyting but i will do that this summer. i think its a great bike for beggining to intermediate DOWNHILL. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
J.T.
a Downhiller
from Modesto, CA
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Overall great value. Most of the components are above average or better. The Progressive Suspension 5th Element rear shock, Truvativ Holzfeller cranks, E13 chain guide, Maxxis Minion Super Tacky tires, and patented Specialized FSR rear suspension design highlight the list. | | Weaknesses: | In my opinion there are few upgrades that need to be made as your budget allows. I could live without the Rock Shox Boxxer Race fork, but it will get you by. My immediate concerns were with the grips, stem, seat, seat post, 44 tooth chain ring, and the 8 speed cassette with heavy gold "spoke guard". | | Bottom Line: | Don't get me wrong after reading the "weaknesses". I love this bike and would definately buy it again! It's been a trustworthy performer that could be ridden and enjoyed 100% stock. I feel that the bike just keeps getting better with each additional upgrade. And most of the upgrades are not very expensive. I strongly recommend it for the first time downhill bike buyer. With upgrades it's a bike suitable for riders of all skill levels. It probably won't appeal to racers that count every gram or people that prefer big name brands. But if you're on a budget and want to buy a new bike that performs almost the same as the best bikes out there give it serious consideration. If you do buy it make sure you check, tighten, and adjust every part of this bike before you ride it! Sometimes those underpaid factory workers in Taiwan get lazy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Snow
a Downhiller
from Chilliwack, BC
Date Reviewed: February 16, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | This bike is beefy as hell! The rear linkage is WAY different than the pictures online. It looks like the 04 linkage. This bike soaks everything up. The 5th Element is a bit intimidating at first, but just read the manual and its all good. The Boxxer feels surprisingly good, the Hayes feel a bit lame but thats just because blind people assembled them. Make sure all bolts are tightened EVERYWHERE on the bike. My rear derailleur hanger was hardly bolted on and stripped out the hole in the frame after one ride! My derailleur was shaking around and I couldn't figure out why. Just go buy some longer bolts, like 12mm long just for the one bolt that screws into the bottom of the hanger. The other one is fine. | | Weaknesses: | The grips are nothing special, and the bike should have come with a 24" rear wheel and a 38 tooth chainring.But thats all easily remedied. | | Similar Products Used: | KHS Dominatrax, Kona Stab. | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Intense bolt on grips. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the deal of the year. I love it. Buy one. Or 2 and hang one on the wall. Its a piece of art. For cheap! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lenny Smith
a Downhiller
from Montana
Date Reviewed: February 14, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Canoe Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1618.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | The suspensionon on this bike is awesome,I am very surprised that they put a Progressive 5th Element Shock on that bike, stock! That shock helps make the bike be what it is. I am still trying to adjust it to get it just right. Make sure you read the manual on this thing. I love the chain guide from E-Thirteen too. It is so simple but it is the best(thats probably why its the best.) I actually like the boxxers but I would have preffered a Mrzocchi Super T. I am glad the put a hefty linkage instead of Specialized Big Hit comp 2002 linkage. The specialized linkage looks weak. I love the WTB Laserdiscs. | | Weaknesses: | The bike is a little Heavy but I think I will get used to it. That's It | | Similar Products Used: | I Have looked at Rocky Mountain RM-7. Giant AC-1, all Specialized Big Hits, | | Bike Setup: | All Stock, Will be getting Some ODI's though. | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks, why buy a specialized when you could of got an Iron horse for 1000 dollars less (Comparing Big Hit Expert). The bike is Awesome. I Was looking at buying a guys used Specialized but why when I could get a brand new Iron horse for the same price. THe bike comes with all quality Products and is a nice feeling bike. I would h
highly reccommend buying one.
DONT'T BUY THE Iron Horse SGS Expert OR THE SGS Sport. They are not as quality as the Pro. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyler Gilsdorf
a Downhiller
from Sammamish, WA
Date Reviewed: February 10, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | A-line | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Superblow don't buy from them unless they have the best price! | | Strengths: | Fork- This is the lighest fork in its class, I have rode bikes with monsters Ts that would hurt your arms after a day on riding (Pulling on that 12lb. lunker in front)
Would consider a 888R in the future
Rear Shock- Holy Cow,this shock is the best on the market, very easy to tune (after you read the instruction manual)
Tires- These tires will grip on any surface (rocks, dirt, concrete, bark (wood chips), and forest ground)
chainguide- this thing rocks it will take a beating and will not break (lexan kicks butt)
Grips- these grips are very easy to hold, but would consider some specailized grips (way nice!)put on with epoxy!
Bars- easton bars are bomb proof! EA50
Pedals- these things are bear traps (ultimate in traction!) watch out they might bite you (BIG traction bolts!) | | Weaknesses: | Brakes- These brakes are BS they lose pressure way to often, air gets in very easy and there is no master cylinder to compensate (like a dirtbike), but when they are working they are top notch!
Gearing- the gearing sucks, way too high! should put on a 38- tooth front sprocket and a 9-speed rear, the high gearing shoul be good for racing
Stem- 2-bolt doesn't cut it
| | Similar Products Used: | Kona Syinky, Stinky-D, Joyride (STAB)
Specailized Bighit SPEC, Comp, Expert
GT downhill
Cannondale Gemini
Various hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock
| | Bottom Line: | This bike is good
it has a lot of high points and only a few weaknesses (Brakes)
BUY THIS BIKE!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Isaac Kobylenski
a Weekend Warrior
from Missoula
Date Reviewed: February 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Canoe Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo.com | | Strengths: | Rear Shock, Chainguide_ The best, Price, Price | | Weaknesses: | The Front Fork but easily upgraded from MOZO, Weight, Grips, Get a pair of ODI lock on grips, | | Similar Products Used: | GT, looked at Kona, Specialized, Giant, Rocky Mountain RM-7 | | Bike Setup: | Just ordered it | | Bottom Line: | There is not a better deal out there. Get it. The rear Shock is the best out there and it comes with lots of quality parts. the bike should last a long time. Make sure you have the bike inspected before you ride it because you could ruin it if you don't. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon Cittati
a Downhiller
from Rome, Italy
Date Reviewed: February 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Citta' di Castello DH | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo.com | | Strengths: | Price (can't beat the deal on a complete DH bike at 1600 bucks!)
Quality trusted names throughout the bike
| | Weaknesses: | Minor cheap details that can be annoying (stem, seat collar)
The bike comes assembled by blind people, you need to check everything, set it up to your personal taste and reroute the cables.
Cheap and weak stem, seat collar and nasty nasty grips. | | Similar Products Used: | Turro Hal 2001, Sintesi Bazooka (old model), Lee Cougan X-Lerator | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for Tioga Cube stem and Tioga Bars, ODI Ruffian Grips. | | Bottom Line: | What to say...this bike rules, every time I see it in my room it begs me to be ridden!
At least where I live, in Italy, for the same price I paid this bike all I could get were used rigs with many weak points, while in the US I got this baby, all new, just for me. The only thing I didn't like about this bike is how small minor details all badly taken care of, first of all the stupid seat collar broke after 10 minutes of riding leaving me stranded...bad bad bad...I would have paid 50 bucks more for a bike that was perfect to ride.
Also the stem and bars...well the bars look and feel nice, now they are on my hardtail jumping/commuting bike, but the stem...ugly 2 bolts thing, I switched it righ away.
The grips are really ugly and hurt your hands, do yourself a favour and put a pair of ODI Ruffian's, your bike deserves them.
Didn't find the boxxer fork as much as a nuisance as expected, maybe since I'm quite heavy they work fine for my weight, some guy suggested me that widening the hole in the cartridge makes them much better...I'll see.
The shock is cool...but too much for an occasional racer...It's a mess with all those regulations, and sometimes it's funny to balance them all.
I spoke with a friend of mine who has worked for steve peat's mechanic, he says the 5th element is a shock made for pro racers i.e. it needs proper setup for every course, in fact here in ROme everyone that has it tries to keep all the extra regulations (air, intial stroke, end stroke) as uninfluential as they can.
THe chainguide-cranks combination is great, e.13 makes killer stuff, the brakes feel great out of the box...well not much to brag about, considering that for and used big hit comp with super t's they asked for 2100 bucks!
Buy it straight away if you can find one, you won't regret, just be prepared to spend extra $ to replace the stem, grips and seat collar (and the bars if you wish) but it will still be a steal! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Martin
a Downhiller
from Santa Rosa, CA USA
Date Reviewed: December 13, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | downhill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo | | Strengths: | components, price | | Weaknesses: | 8 speed casette and 2 bolt stem could be a problem for some | | Similar Products Used: | Marin East Peak, Gary Fisher | | Bike Setup: | stock except for True goo self sealing tire sealant and Lizard Skins chainstay guard | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up review to my October review. Haven't broken anything yet, no problems with the boxxer. Everything is holding up well. Haven't put on a 9 speed casette yet, but want to. Excellent bike all around. Would buy it again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from Livermore, CA
Date Reviewed: December 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Whistler | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | I can afford it. The FSR linkage along with the 5th Element Provides a sweet 8" of travel. The Maxxis Super Tacky Minions provide great traction. The main frame is stout and the 1.5 head tube will hold up well to abuse. Overall, great component spec. | | Weaknesses: | I guess you could say weight, but that would only hurt racers. The rear is a bit on the flexy side (check into the 2004 upgrade kit from e13). I could live without the stock grips, seatpost, 2-bolt stem, seat, and Boxxer Race. It would also be nice to have a 9 speed cassette instead of the 8 speed with the bulky gold spoke protector. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Bullit, but I don't really consider that a DH bike. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for a 2003 Monster T, lock-on grips, 4-bolt stem, Thompson seatpost, WTB laser DH seat. | | Bottom Line: | I rode this bike hard during the summer and it held up great. I raced it in the beginner class and made it to the podium. It's a bit heavy, but that should provide durability in the long run. At first, I didn't know if I should buy an Iron Horse, but the pros have done well on this bike. For me it's performed well on race courses, ski resort shuttle runs, and drops (it's handled some brutal ones with class...I love the bottomless feel of the 5th Element). It's more bike than I needed at first. But now I'm going bigger and faster than I ever thought possible. The value rating is a 5 because of the low price tag. The overall rating is a 4 because of the handful of necessary upgrades I had to make. I'd buy it again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JAB
a Downhiller
from Sweden
Date Reviewed: November 26, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Most of the stuff on this bike is awsome BUT... | | Weaknesses: | as most people have already mentioned there is some flex in the linkage (read fix below).
The crankarm bolts on my bike where greatly overtightened and the bolt heads were damaged (this happened to anyone else?).The golden spoke protector is stupid: remove it and put on a nine speed sprocket instead (I use a 34-11 to hide the weight of the bike a little).
| | Bottom Line: | To fix the flex in the linkage I filed about 2mm (1 mm on each side)off the shaft pipe that goes through the shock. Then I replaced all the axels that goes through the frame with 100 mm long M 8 stainless steel axels and locking bolts (didn't trust those weak allen screws). The flex is almost completely gone (obviously there is still some but hey, it's a FSR linkage, they all flex a little).
The 04 linkage plates are gonna be three peice and much stiffer and I've heard that the 04 chainstays are gonna be 11 x stiffer then the 03. That should solve the flex problem completely! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from Olympia, WA. U.S.
Date Reviewed: November 23, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Joyce DH | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1649.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance in Tacoma | | Strengths: | good component package for the money,fifth element rear shock,good all around goemetry | | Weaknesses: | stock boxxer race, stem, hefty weight,chainring was too big for my liking | | Similar Products Used: | specialized big hit 2003 | | Bike Setup: | FSA DH stem, 38t chainring w/smaller bashring, boxxer race w/mojo upgrade kit,2.5 & 2.35 42 compound minions, hutchinson lightweight DH tubes, sells italia seat w/ti rails, soon to have the hayes mag and put the hfx 9's on my hardtail. | | Bottom Line: | For how cheap this bike was it wasn't too painful to throw some extra money into it to make it even better. When it is stock it is a little to heavy for me but it is easy to lighten it up a bit, I have got it down to 43 pounds. There is a little noticeable flex in the rear linkage but I plan on buying the new 2004 link from e-thirteen to remedy that problem. Anyone who has this bike or is planning on buying this bike I would highly recommend getting the kit for the boxxer, it makes a world of difference! You can find it at www.mojo.co.uk. So far it is a killer ride and there really isn't too much that can go wrong with it, I mean guys are winning world cup races on this thing! Buy this bike if you can afford a couple of small upgrades. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
muppet
a Downhiller
from san luis obispo
Date Reviewed: November 17, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1930.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo | | Strengths: | 5th element shock
strong wheels
overall component package
awesome deal, even if you had to pay 2500 | | Weaknesses: | some flex in the linkage
boxxer race fork | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky five | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | overall you can't really beat the price unless its stolen or and inside deal. I'm very happy with the performance so far after about four rides. I've got a small, and its only a small amount heavier than my old 5 inch Kona. This thing turns all right and the 5th element blows me away. the back end is kind of flexy. I don't know if its because of cheap bearings or the e13 link flexing, so if you know how to remedy this, let me know. Its not that big of a deal anyways, I cant really tell on rides. The fork isn't great, but it works fine for me. I'd advise anyone who hasn't already to take the bike apart, grease the bolts, and reassemble with proper torques. I cut the bars down about an inch, too, and I like it even better. If you are contemplating buying one, i'd say these things are easily worth 2500 bucks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh Stone
a Downhiller
from houston, tx, usa
Date Reviewed: October 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | ant-hills | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycleblowout.com | | Strengths: | strong frame, 5th element, drive train, basically everything, wows bmx riders at local skatepark. | | Weaknesses: | the sun-ringle stem is a two bolt design and you can feel it twist under pressure, buy a good raceface diabolus stem. the seat post is not azonic h.d., they don't even make one in the seatpost size used, some say it strips out easly, as long as you tighten it down and don't mess wit it it works fine. paint scratches real easly. the chain broke the first day i had it, broke at the coupling point. if you are going to use this bike for anykind of cross country, replace the front chainring, hard to pedal, but it is a downhill bike so what do you expect.replace the seat,it is uncomfortable. | | Similar Products Used: | cannondale gemini 1000 and 2000 | | Bike Setup: | stock except for diabolus stem and specialized body geometry seat. | | Bottom Line: | overall this is a great bike, i don't think i will replace much, the boxxer is not as bad as everyone says it is, for me it is a little too soft and so it needs a little more oil in it, the 5th element can be a little tricky to set up, but over all the bike is wonderfull and takes drop-offs with ease and wows bmx riders when you take it to the local skate park jump off of things. buy it if you are looking for a great downhill bike, the hils i have ridden down, makes me want more and when i take it freeriding it is wonderfull. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Martin
a Downhiller
from Santa Rosa CA USA
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | dirt/drops | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo (and no I don't work for them) | | Strengths: | None yet, PRICE, COMPONENTS | | Weaknesses: | None yet, except I don't like how the ninth gear was swapped out for a "Guard" It serves no purpose. I don't really consider this a weakness though. It would be nice to have a ninth gear though, but the eighth is a 30T for climbing | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fishers, Haro, Marin | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for a bling blingin' lizards skin chainstay guard | | Bottom Line: | An excellent bike for an excellent price. Top of the line components in general, except for the boxxer race. A lot of people have said negetive things about it. I haven't had any problems with it so far, but am curious to see how it will stand the test of time. Sucks up big hits nicely. I would reccoment this bike to anyone wanting downhill level performance in a bike for under $3,000. Great Deal! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clay pittman
a Downhiller
from canyon, texas
Date Reviewed: September 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | pdc DH | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo.com | | Strengths: | PRICE!!, the 5th element is great tons of tuning options, e.13 guide, tires used to not be to big a maxxis fan but these are incredable for dry loos and rocky there all im running from now on., 1.5 headtube is huge, hays 8in holserfeller cranks good pedals, | | Weaknesses: | these are personal setup things only, but i dint like the 2bolt stem to much flex for me and 42t ring up front is a little much. | | Similar Products Used: | 01 8in bighit comp | | Bike Setup: | stock with kore b1b stem and odi lockon grips | | Bottom Line: | love the bike, i needed to replace the front and rear suspension on my bighit so i sold it and bought this bran new bike for what it would have cost to fix my bh and its a beter bike, if your evan remotly thinking about geting a downhill go for the sgs and you wont regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
charlie
a Downhiller
from seattle,wa,u.s.a.
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | chutes n' ladders/a-line | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1899.99 | | Purchased At: | supergo | | Strengths: | where to start? progressive 5th element, rock shox boxxer, hayes, truvativ, shimano xt derailler,easton bars, maxxis sticky as heck minion dh tires , fsr linkage. | | Weaknesses: | The frame itself had a little lateral flex, but that is fixable, comes with cheap rims . chain gets stuck in guide(not too big a problem). 5th is annoying to tune and keep from losing oil. Boxxer seizes in bumps but is fixable by romic. | | Similar Products Used: | specialized big hit , rocky mtn. rm-6 | | Bike Setup: | xt , evil guide, truvativ holzfeller cranks , truvativ giga pipe bb, easton monkey lite ec-70 carbon bars, hayes hydro hfx mags, boxxer team , 5th element, laserdic wheels , supergo 2 bolt dh stem, T.H.E. seat, azonic hd post. | | Bottom Line: | This bike performs great on any dh course. The bike would ride better with a marzocchi fork on the front(I am getting a shiver). The bike's geometry and graet head tube angle make this bike perform well under race conditions. It accelerates well, turns well and is easily manuverable. I would reccomend this to anyone like me who is a freerider /budget minded racer. The bottom line is this bike delivers! Get it soon because supergo is running out fast. Great Deal . Raceable bike for under $2000! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sean
a Downhiller
from walnut creek, california
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | DOWNHILL | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1899.00 | | Purchased At: | supergo.com | | Strengths: | everything about this bike is its strenth's, its an awsome downhill bike. | | Weaknesses: | the only thing that is wrong with this bike is that the seat post is crap, everything else is awsome | | Similar Products Used: | i had a Giant AC2, and i rode my dad's KHS Dominatrix. | | Bike Setup: | I am runnign this bike pretty stock except a new bar and seat post. | | Bottom Line: | ok well the bottom line is that this bike rules... and there is nothing wrong with it, there is no reason to by a 3000 doller intense when u can spend 1800 dollers for this bike. So anybody who wants a new downhill bike get this... off super go too, thats where ive seen it the cheapest | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James Howery
a Downhiller
from Prescott, AZ
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | South Mountain/Northstar | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | SuperHoe | | Strengths: | Component package, FSR frame, steel axles for the shock to rotate on, rear shock, 1.5 headtube, price, price and price. | | Weaknesses: | Stem is hokey 2-bolt design. Boxxer race is poor at real high speed in choppy terrain, a bit heavy, HFX comp levers. | | Similar Products Used: | Cheeta Proline, Super8, DiscoV, Turner, etc... | | Bike Setup: | Still has the boxxer race, but with a compression cartridge from a pre03 boxxer. 545 pedals. All else stock. | | Bottom Line: | THE best value in DH bikes, and easily competes with bikes costing more than twice as much, that is the bottom line.
I've been on it now for around a month, and I feel that I can do a fairly good review now.
At the DH resorts it does pretty well. The tires grip like mad and bring you around corners in a hurry. The rear end of the bike soaks up stuff great, although when you use higher psi on the 5th(to improve pedaling) it sacrifices sensitivity. But the bike pedals great, even with a lower psi. The seat may not be so hot, supposedly it's a "mud" seat, and my rides so far on it have been mud fests, so I don't know if i'll keep it. The drivetrain shifts great, but you do get the FSR-knock with the rear deailer, so some padding is needed. The drivetrain is great, no complaints and it shifts fine. The only major thing I dont like is the fork, its simply not a good fork, it has no compression damping, and going down stuff at high speed that becomes painfully(to my wrists) apparent. I'm trying to put a Monster or Shiver on it instead, and I think that will greatly improve it.
Buy all this stuff seperatly and it runs more than 3K, if you buy it online, the value is so amazing, but the bike is worthy of the great value, it preforms very well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from North Carolina
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | anything downhill with rock gardens | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Frame is heavy duty. Price. Iron Horse customer service. | | Weaknesses: | Fork seems to be a little loose in the headset even with the headset tightened properly. | | Bike Setup: | Stock - with the except of a 36 tooth crank gear. No need to change anything else just look at the components. | | Bottom Line: | The bike handles greats and pedals well. I have a small (17") and it weighs in at 45lbs. Not to bad for a DH rig especially in this price range. The Maxxis 2.7's seem to hook up on most anything. The only thing I am a little weary of is the Boxxer. One of my buddies had his to lock up and it dislocated his collar bone. After reading the Boxxer reviews, this seems to be a common problem. That said I have not had any problems. Of course I am only 145lbs so the weight may make a difference. If you need a DH rig that is ready to race and don't want to spend the money for an Intense or Turner then this is the bike without question. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bigripper
a Downhiller
from Boston/Seattle/Salt lake/Breck
Date Reviewed: August 13, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn/porcupine rim/victor falls/Vail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1899.00 | | Purchased At: | Mail Order | | Strengths: | Price, overall quality of parts package. The fact that you can get a race ready (sports class) bike for less than two grand is pretty cool. With a few mods this bike could be pretty bomber. | | Weaknesses: | Fork is the best of the WORST in its class, well I suppose the RST triple is a little worse, 8spd cassette, two bolt stem. Cosmetically, the decals are just cheap friggin stickers! You need to pretty much Reassemble everything when you take it out of the box or you'll die! Some Taiwanese guy threw it together in about a half hour I think. | | Similar Products Used: | KHS Dominatrix, Specialized Big Hit | | Bike Setup: | All stock except I switched out the stem for an azonic shorty. I will be adding heavier oil to the shock after a few rides and will also switch out the cassette for a 9speed down the road. Come to think of it, I'll probably switch out the chain ring for a 38T too. | | Bottom Line: | I've ridden this bike twice. Once at Mt. Snow and once at Sunday river. Although it's a nice bike with a pretty good feel to it, I didn't think it was anything real special. It's a bit squirly in the turns (probably cuz of the crappy fork) It's super heavy and hard to get the front end up and control the landing on drops, and it's really difficult to pedal on those sections of trail that are flat or slightly uphill. The best thing about this bike is definately the rear shock. It really lived up to its reputation and ate EVERYTHING. Overall, If I could do it over again I would save up another grand and get a big hit DH. There was a shop by my house that was selling the 03's out for $3000. Oh well, I'll make the best out of it. It's not that this is a bad bike, I guess I just set my expectations a little high. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Manimal
a
from Seattle Wa
Date Reviewed: July 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Whistler | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1899.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Above all else, that 5th Element shock. Unbreakable bike and well spec'd package. Incredible price for everything that is included. | | Weaknesses: | 47 lbs - Ringle two bolt stem provided - bike comes spec'd with a very odd cassette that has 8 speeds while all other components are 9sp (chain, shifter, derailleur) | | Similar Products Used: | Ironhorse G-spot - Specialized Big Hit - Rocky Mtn RM-7 - Santa Cruz Bullitt | | Bottom Line: | This bike is SO beef! Take the time and set it up carefully before you ride it hard though. The E-13 shock link needed a little attention from the wrenches because it felt loose and the Boxxer fork didn't seem to have enough oil in it so, I serviced it to spec with some higher quality oil (Golden Spectro) and the right quantities (try 200cc in both legs). A replacement shorty stem with 4 bolts does a better job with the bars and looks a little more appropriate on this bike too. I had to take that weird pimp-gold ring off the rear wheel because I had no idea what it was for, along with the 8sp cassette and I put a real 9sp on the wheel. Then, I dropped the front ring down to a 38T from 42T for a little versatility. The ride is awesome for a 47 lb bike and it's mostly down to that 5th Element shock that the bike comes with. Everything you've heard about them is true: Bottomless travel! The problem is that the shock totally outclasses the Boxxer fork! With more/better oil in the fork, it isn't as noticeable but, it's still in another league. I can live with and easily fix alot of minor gripes for the $1899 that Supergo was selling these for though! Wow, nothing comes close at this price. 5th Element, 8" Hayes hydraulics F/R, huge 2.7 Maxxis Minion Super Tacky compound tires, Boxxer race fork with adjustable travel, Truvative Holzfeller cranks, Wellgo platform pedals, full bearing 4 bar link, E-13 lexan bash guard (the thing is 1/2" thick!) and chain guide are all included. I would give this bike 10 Chilis for value if I could. The color is so appropriate also. Tank Green! Now, it's time to go flatten some terrain and destroy everything in it's path... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Downhiller
from Boulder, Colorado
Date Reviewed: July 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Keystone Colorado's Wild Thing | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2099.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo.com | | Strengths: | Sweet Look, great performance, wide range of adjustibility, top of the line products, everything on the bike flows with everything else. | | Weaknesses: | Stock seat, 42T ring in front, and compund of tires. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Big Hit Comp 01' with 8 inch link and 01 shiver DC | | Bike Setup: | Azonic love seat, Azonic shorty stem. | | Bottom Line: | For the price this is the right mountain bike for anyone who wants to get into downhill racing or just riding downhill for fun. For it being my second year biking, first downhilling, I have accomlished more terrain on this bike than I thaught I ever could. Help builds confidence while heading down the race course upwards around 50 -55 mph. A work of art! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Downhiller
from the Cuse
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1999.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | price; 4-bar linkage is perfect for east coast downhill, 5th element is a quality shock which works well with the frame; the 2.7" Maxxis Minion tires are the best tires ive ridden so far - they stick like glue; wheels have held up pretty well so far; Evil chainguide is sweet; the holzfeller cranks are remarkably stiff and the extra wide bottom bracket improves stability. Brakes are good, shifters and derailler are OK; also once again the price is definitely right... | | Weaknesses: | bike is relatively heavy; the unadjustable boxxer race is junk - I replaced it with an '03 Shiver; the seat, pedals, grips and stem are sh1tters as well; also bike has a LOT of lateral flex - but this can be fixed. My buddy put two threaded rods through the E 13 linkage to stiffen it up, and it made a world of difference. Email me for details - would highly recommend using this technique or a variation of it. | | Similar Products Used: | bullit, other ironhorses | | Bike Setup: | I use Magura Gustav brakes - the Hayes that come stock are pretty good, but I like my Gustavs - they could stop a train. Titec El Norte saddle, Kore elite pedals, On One retard bars and stem, Intense lock-on grips. '03 Shiver DC up front, and everything else is stock. | | Bottom Line: | Ive been used to single pivot designs, and this bike blows those bikes out of the water. Quality bike with some great components - would recommend upgrading the front fork, seat, stem, and pedals though. If you sell and upgrade the Boxxer race(you can sell it on ebay for $400), and upgrade the other components as suggested, the bike will probably cost you around 2500 - you won't find a better deal on a quality DH bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Davis, Ca, USA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Super Secret North Shore Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2099.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo.com | | Strengths: | Everything about it is super beefy. It holds to whatever i throw at it. Also an awesome freerider for both urban and natural stuff. It handled a 9 footer and didn't even get close to bottoming. | | Weaknesses: | Expect to have to maybe make some adjustments as with any other bike if you fall. I took a hard hit to the pedal and the threads skipped on one side of it so it's crooked. Also broke the seat off of the rails and chain got stuck in chain guide. Easy fixed just a wrench and some bare hands. Also the chainring is a little big it comes with 42 teeth but im gonna trade in for 38 teeth. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant DH Comp | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks! Expect the most from it and don't hold back. Drop it off of anything and you wont bottom with the 5th element. Doesn't just serve for downhill but almost anything else. A little hard on the uphills but who wants to go uphill anyway? Yeah maybe it does wheigh a little much but once you get used to it and once you get going you'll be an unstoppable beast. This tank also jumps like no other, expect big air and forgiving landings. The parts are just anything any downhiller could possibly want. Get this bike and you wont regret it. I give it top ranks because it rides like a Mad house monkey farm. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
travis
a
from boulder creek
Date Reviewed: April 14, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Strengths: | fsr link, i have the 02 team which is unchange from 03 accept the 02 has adjustble chainstay which means u can run a 24" rear wheel. | | Weaknesses: | having to wait at the bottom of the chair lift for all my buddies on santa cruz's. | | Similar Products Used: | fsr big hit w/8" link. sc v-10(good luck bunny hopping it)sc super 8,sc bullit,kona stab | | Bike Setup: | 02 sgs team frame,fox rear shox,stratos s8 fork,raceface dh doublechain ring cranks,hayes brakes,sun singletrack wheelset(24"rear) profile bars,pig dh headset,kojo tires,xt eveything else | | Bottom Line: | Get the team sgs frame then build your bike up from there. its 4 bar fsr linkage so you can't go wrong. run a 24" rear wheel so the thing will turn fast and give a killer ride hieght. More then enough travel.sealed bearings so no worries there. and unlike single chairing bikes u can ride up to the startgate or local trails. Ironhorse came through on this frame. Oh, did i forget to mention half of ironhorses team rides with the 24" rear wheel. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff T.
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort Collins
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2199.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicyclebuys.com | | Strengths: | This is an addition to an earlier review | | Weaknesses: | Seat, Clamp, came with a defective rearhub | | Similar Products Used: | nothing similar | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for an azonic shorty stem and shock boot | | Bottom Line: | Just wanted to comment on my last review in case anyone else is considering buying one of these. As I stated above mine came with a defective rearhub, which sucks hardcore. I bought it over 3 months ago and still haven't been able to really ride it. But on a lighter note, I got really good cooperation from Bicyclebuys & particularly from Todd Seplavy @ Iron Horse bikes. As soon as I related the problem in an email, I heard back from Todd in less than 24hrs., AND he had already contacted Bicyclebuys for me! That to me is service! Anyway, they had another wheel in the shop and shipped it to me pronto. So my bottom line for anyone looking to buy an IronHorse is go for it. They really back their product, they didn't hassle me at all about the problem. The defect does suck, but thats a manufacturing issue. Overall this bike still kicks a**! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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