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Submitted by
brad
a Cross Country Rider
from Olympia, WA
Date Reviewed: April 19, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Horsehead Pass, North Cascades | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | used from a disgrunt | | Strengths: | Single track, climbing | | Weaknesses: | high speed descents | | Similar Products Used: | Sugar, FSR, Fuel, NRS | | Bottom Line: | This bike is very different from any other full suspension bike and has received an unwarranted reputation for "stinkbugging". Those who have experienced that problem with the Mantra series have not taken the time to understand the design.
Gary Klein designed the bike to be ridden as rear suspension only with a rigid fork, so you need to use a much stiffer fork setting than you would on any other bike. The rear shock compresses when the front wheel hits a bump, so you can get away with a stiffer setup (such as the original boron wrapped aluminum fork Gary intended the bike to have).
Do that, and stay in the saddle on steep descents and you will have no troubles - except for the fact that it is a very quick steering bike (designed for single track)so it can be handful at very high speeds.
It is right up there with the Maverick/Palomino in being the only full suspension bikes that rival hardtails in climbing.
I have never ridden another cross country bike that makes me feel more at home on the bike than this one. For me it engenders a feeling of confidence that has been unmatched by any other. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Beeching
a Cross Country Rider
from Hendersonville, NC, USA
Date Reviewed: November 2, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Dupont and Pisgah trails | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Liberty Bicycles | | Strengths: | Great climbing manchine; the short wheelbase and narrow bars make the twisty trails a snap; soaks up the rough stuff real good; fun for the downhills as long as you throw your weight off the back seat | | Weaknesses: | creaking in the frame; large bearing headset | | Bike Setup: | Hayes Hyd disc brakes, Manitou R-Seven fork, Thomson stem, factory Icon bars, King 1 1/8" headset (custom made adapters pressed into the original races), XTR shifters and deraileurs, changing over to Tru-Vativ cranks and rings, SRAM chain and cassette, Thomson seatpost, factory seat (brand is worn off, forgot it), Bontrager Race Lite Disc rims, DT Swiss hubs, FSA ISIS bottom bracket, Panaracer Fire X 2.1 tires
26 lbs | | Bottom Line: | I've been riding this bike since 00 or 01. Gone thru a few different back-up bikes during that time and always gone back to the Klein. This bike fits me like a glove and I have more confidence on it than any other bike I have owned. I plan to buy another one at some point so that I have two. It has been dependable and I don't plan to let it go any time soon. I wish Klien would reintroduce this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Green
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike shop in London UK | | Strengths: | 1. Its a Klein
2. After nearly 10 years its proved indestructible
3. Looks fantastic
4. Suspension works well
5. Its just the dogs nuts | | Weaknesses: | 1. Standard factory components were a bit weak | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale FS700 | | Bike Setup: | Oh too much to mention - replaced seat, replaced crank set and brakes (added disc to front), replaced forks, straight bars etc etc | | Bottom Line: | This was the first MTB I ever bought, to keep me fit in London. I loved it from the day I got it, and still rate it. I have seriously thrashed it all over England, Wales, and New Zealand, hence the non-standard components (4th set of forks, 2nd drivettrain etc etc).
Fail to understand the fuss over the downhill aspects. Maybe coz this was my first bike i just assumed that it was how it was. I have taken this bike full noise down some good sized mountains and found it to be less frightening than my other bike - a hardtail Cannondale. I still prefer it for downhill over any of my friends bikes. Maybe its the way i ride, or the fact that I am a smaller guy, but I found that keeping off the seat and my weight over the bars and keeping the front planted where I wanted it, the back of the bike did a great job of soaking up the bumps and holding the line.
Its never thrown me or become unstable or complained about me jumping off buildings or big drops. The frame is still as solid as the day I bought it. Its rigid, light, and just makes me feel more confident about going hard, which is what a great bike is all about.
I would *never* sell my Mantra. One of the best toys I ever bought!
Without a doubt one of the coolest mountain bikes ever made and *still* better than any other FS bikes made today. Totally love it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Brewer
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | from a professional | | Strengths: | Carbon Fiber Mantra Race
Weight, Climbing, Rear Suspension set up, the fastest bike I have ever ridden!! | | Weaknesses: | Sealed Headset specific to carbon fiber models only, Mystery noises from frame and or bushings. | | Similar Products Used: | too many to list | | Bike Setup: | Carbon Fiber Mantra Race, Rockshox SID Race, Bontrager Race Lites, Cane Creek Curved V brakes with carbon fiber brake boosters, Easton Carbon Monkey Lite riser bar (the hard to find 125g version) SRAM 9.0 SL Betsy Ross Edition Carbon grip shifts, brake levers, and rear derailleur, XTR Front derailleur, XTR Cog sets, RaceFace Carbon Fiber cranks. Thompson Seat Post with standard saddle. Including Nashbar cheap pedals. All together weighting an amazing 22-23lbs. | | Bottom Line: | I am in the weight range of a great xc bike, the bike shreds local trails. I find it extremely easy to rip through technical and rocky terrains, at the right speed almost effortlessly. Though I would have to agree with most that the downhills can become quite tricky with this bike. It just has to be ridden differantly on steep technical downhills though you can still haul ass. It may take a few face plants to figure it all out. I suggest for this, if you do not have to carbon fiber version that flanges at the headset to get a true downhill front fork it will make a huge difference. A great bike for the money and if you can get your hands on one resonably priced you will fall in love as have many of us. I would not sell this bike for the world. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jim johnston
a Racer
from vader wa
Date Reviewed: March 14, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | lewis river | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | klein | | Strengths: | latrally stiff | | Weaknesses: | not ballanced suspension travel.location of pivot causes head tube angle to radically change in g out situations. | | Similar Products Used: | is there anything as poorly designed? | | Bike Setup: | judy sl xt xtr thompson | | Bottom Line: | overall this bike is terrible for anything but pavement use.Look for real suspension such as fsr. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
alex
a Weekend Warrior
from witham essex
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | dambury | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | one of the beat xc single track bikes ever | | Weaknesses: | urt backend | | Similar Products Used: | well im a mtb builder so iv tryed most | | Bike Setup: | fall xtr hope front ankers middleburn drivers | | Bottom Line: | one of the best bikes in her class | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd Emerson
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Junction, Co, usa
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | San Juan - Porcupine Rim | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Stiff and tight frame...lika a Klein | | Weaknesses: | Raise the front end a bit if it still has an 80 mm fork | | Similar Products Used: | Gt Pantera, Klein Adroit, Klein Attitude, Klein Pulse | | Bike Setup: | put a 100mm Bomber fork on it after 2 downhill endos...eventually upgraded just about everything | | Bottom Line: | Those who own a Klein are usually xc or climbers. I love the brutal climbs. After buying my first Klein I was religiously hooked, never to go back. I still have my Adroit(will NEVER part with it) and my Attitude, so I will switch off riding a bit. I was amazed at how well the Mantra climbed. Back when I bought it I still lived in So Ca and mostly rode the local mountains...San Juan trail, Harding trail, Joplin, etc. I love my hard tails but this was a nice change. Soon we headed to Moab and I tried it on some of the most brutal trails on earth. I love my adroit but theres no way I'm taking it down the Portal trail (it's built up fully rigid). The Mantra has never disappointed me. I bought it new in 1998 and have ridden it consistently ever since. I can not think of any issue I have ever had with it. Would I buy it again if it was lost? IN A SECOND!! It has been a GREAT investment! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Smeguk
a Cross Country Rider
from London
Date Reviewed: October 12, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Evans | | Strengths: | Great bike | | Weaknesses: | desing fault in the frame | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Palamino, klein q pro carbon | | Bottom Line: | Guys these are the most amazing bikes but be warned if you start hearing that noise and think its the bottom bracket it aint! It is the frame shearing by the pivot just next to the USA flag and Klein do know about this fault in the design of the race and earlier mantras but just don't tell you as per Don below
Klein do offer lifetime warranty and great customer service BUT you need to have the original paperwork or you will be left with a broken frame to put on the wall | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Queens NY
Date Reviewed: April 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Rocky point LI | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Beatiful Color
Good Parts for its time.
Solid Frame. Best Paint job.
Adjustable shocks. XT parts. | | Weaknesses: | Needs upgrades.
1997 Parts.
Thin Tires.
only 24 speed with no gear indicators. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 7000 w/upgrades, Cannondale Raven 700x W/lefty. | | Bike Setup: | Original parts except New saddle and XT brake set.
Bike comes with XT all around. Ceramic Mavic Cross. | | Bottom Line: | I have been ridding a hard tail for around 7 years and just the upgrade to a dual suspension already makes my back and bottom say thankyou. The bike preforms wonderfully on light trails and Road due to the OLD but still efficient Shock system front/rear. I have only tested it in Forest Park NY and road and it has taken all the big hits no problem. It is ULTRA LIGHT even with the old technology and does feel safe and easy to control. I recomend this bike to any one that can buy one under $800 and plans to upgrade some parts. you will definetly be happy and you will be sure to get a lot of WOWS just cruising down yor block. PS. keep the seat low when doing heavy down hill it can be a little scary, But climbs like a monkey. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ro
a Cross Country Rider
from The Hague-Netherlands
Date Reviewed: December 31, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Great bike, wonderful design, headturner, great design, great climber, great stability yet lightweight | | Weaknesses: | pivot creaks sometimes
killed after Trek took over Klein, discontinued | | Similar Products Used: | what not | | Bike Setup: | Klein Mantra race (modified)
- Rock Shox Sid sl
- King headset
- Fox Float RL rear
- XT-R front and rear
- Rolf propel wheels
- Magura 33
- Selle Italia TransAm prolink | | Bottom Line: | Klein managed to create a wonderful design with the one-tube frame and deserves full credit for it. This bike belongs in the museum of modern art, as far as I am concerned. A modern classic I am proud to own and enjoy every time I ride it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don Beyer
a Weekend Warrior
from Lemon Grove
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Sycamore Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Yard Sale | | Strengths: | Great climber, fast single tracker, good overall ride. | | Weaknesses: | A little scary on rocky downhill. Steep head angle takes some getting used to. Center of gravity a little high | | Bike Setup: | All stock XT with Manitou SX fork, switched out tires to Raptors. Rebuilt fork works very well. Replaced stem with 1" rise and 2" shorter and moved seat back as far as it would go to get weight off front end. Replaced seat with Specialized COMP. Once you get these setup right they are great. | | Bottom Line: | Fantastic ride, Sycamore Canyon has just about every type of terrain you could ask for and it handles it all very well untill you get to the steep rocky downhill. I added a quick release for seatpost adjustment. I lower it about and inch just before the steep rocky stuff and have learned to stay off the back of the seat. It has given me a lot more confidence in handling it (Used to get off and walk some of it). The coating on the bushings in the pivot gave out on the side faces from what looks like a little missalignment of the arms surfaces. The Klien replacement bushings did not have the proper clearance. (They just slopped around in the frame when they are supposed to be a press fit.) Being a machinist by trade I replaced them with a Delrin plastic bushing and they have worked great so far Yesterday after hearing a wierd creaking sound on the last two rides my rear arm snapped off just below the pivot. This drove my fron sprocket into the ground and brought me to an abrupt stop. I take very good care of this bike so this took me by surprise especially since I just had it torn down a couple months back to do the bushings. It broke at the bottom edge of the weld just below the pivot. If you do a lot of hard riding check this area out very closely. Well, looks like I need to make a run over to the local Trek store this morning to see what they will do about it. Up until yesterday I have been very pleased with this bike. I suppose if they will do the right thing and replace it for me I will still be happy with it. Will let you know how Trek performs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Verink
a Cross Country Rider
from Deerfield, WI
Date Reviewed: May 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Unique looks, climbs incredibly well, nice component spec. (I actually like the WTB grease guard bits). The frame is solidly built and laterally very rigid. A really good bike for rolling double track - faster and more comfortable than a hardtail.
| | Weaknesses: | The Mantra has two in order of severity:
-riding downhill
-riding downhill singletrack
Living and riding in the midwest it wasn't until I took it out west to ride that I discovered the dark side of the Mantra. What others have said about descending on the Mantra is true - it was truly frightening.
Applying the brakes caused the rear end to jack up, raising the center of gravity, the wheel base to shorten, making the bike less stable and essentially giving it a weird variable geometry - the Mantra completely destroyed my confidence when descending. | | Bike Setup: | Stock 1998 Mantra Race (Large, Koi)+ velociraptors, eventually swaped fork for a white brothers | | Bottom Line: | First off, Trek bought Klein in 1996. Most bikes from mid-1996 on were made under Trek's management. Hence some of the less fancily painted models like the monocromatic Pulse.
At first I really liked my Mantra. Nice components, modest weight, great climbing, especially on rough terrain. It was
faster than most hardtails I'd ridden, especially uphill.
Living and riding in the midwest it wasn't until I took it out west to ride that I discovered the dark side of the Mantra. What others have said about descending on the Mantra is true - it was truly frightening.
Applying the brakes on steep terrain caused the rear end to jack up raising the center of gravity, the wheel base to shorten, making the bike less stable and essentially giving it a weird variable geometry - the Mantra completely destroyed my confidence when descending anything technical.
If you ride wide or non-technical trails, or fireroads, this is a fine bike. Especially if you can get a good price on it. I went back to a hardtail and a Kona Stinky for stoopid stuff. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charlie Spano
a Cross Country Rider
from Ttiusville, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: September 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Fire and endur trails Lebanon State Forrest - 30+miles | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Frenchtown Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Simple design, climbs and handles sand like no other bike can do; handles fast not too technical trails as in the NJ pines with whoops, stumps, tight turns and average speeds on the flat of 15 to 17 mph really well | | Weaknesses: | Scary to descend steep stuff on. I think placing the pivot 2cm back would improve this. I changed my Thompson seat post to a Weyless to get more setback, which improved descending. I do not feel comfortable in knarly heavily rooted trails where one must fly or creep. When the breaks are hit in this situation the back shock rises and the front compresses.....at slow speed a perfect set-up for a head plant. | | Similar Products Used: | Only hardtails. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, XT components, changed stem to a 10cm and Weyless seatpost for more setback to make me feel more comfortable when descending. | | Bottom Line: | Awsome bike if you do not do radical descents and you are not afraid to keep the speed up in heavily rocked trails to give the bike a little float. Nothing climbs close to it or can keep up with it in the sand. Does woops really great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charlie Spano
a Cross Country Rider
from Ttiusville, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: September 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Fire and endur trails Lebanon State Forrest - 30+miles | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Frenchtown Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Simple design, climbs and handles sand like no other bike can do; handles fast not too technical trails as in the NJ pines with whoops, stumps, tight turns and average speeds on the flat of 15 to 17 mph really well | | Weaknesses: | Scary to descend steep stuff on. I think placing the pivot 2cm back would improve this. I changed my Thompson seat post to a Weyless to get more setback, which improved descending. I do not feel comfortable in knarly heavily rooted trails where one must fly or creep. When the breaks are hit in this situation the back shock rises and the front compresses.....at slow speed a perfect set-up for a head plant. | | Similar Products Used: | Only hardtails. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, XT components, changed stem to a 10cm and Weyless seatpost for more setback to make me feel more comfortable when descending. | | Bottom Line: | Awsome bike if you do not do radical descents and you are not afraid to keep the speed up in heavily rocked trails to give the bike a little float. Nothing climbs close to it or can keep up with it in the sand. Does woops really great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
josh
a Racer
from Miami, Florida, USA
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | French Connection | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Fast, light, climbs like a freak'n monkey. Get's attention. Soaks up big bumps. | | Weaknesses: | The seat is horrible. Turning is also difficult due to the one pivot design with the high center of gravity. Going downhill is scary. Rear suspension doesn't soak up little roots, bumps. | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Pulse, Merlin titanium hardtail, Scott Vertigo LSD, FSR,Royce Union, my bike: mongoose mgx 6.5, and future bike, 02 FSR rockhopper. | | Bike Setup: | Look review below this one, for complete specs. I just rode his bike. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price. Esp. on e-bay, what a deal. But there's always a catch. At this moment my friends bike lay in his room upside down, w/ a broken front and rear derailleur, broken rear brake, and almost snapped cable wires. Guess that's what you get when you get something used. Once bike is fixed, awesome ride! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gavriel Kane
a Cross Country Rider
from NMB, Fl
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Any trail that I ride with my Mantra. | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$535.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | It's a Klein.
1.Climbing
2.Weight
3.Components
4.Paintjob
5.Turns heads
6.Unique frame design
7.Etc. | | Weaknesses: | 1.Turning and cornering (At first).
2.Not too easy to get on a bike rack with 2 or more other bikes. With one it is usually fine.
3.No Disc-tab on swingarm (But you can buy an adapter).
4.Suspension doesn't work well on small bumps - The fox shock, not the Klein. | | Similar Products Used: | A friend's Klein Pulse. It was the reason I got a klein. Once you try it, you're addicted. | | Bike Setup: | 1.98 Mantra Race Frame
2.00 Manitou SX Fork
3.Fox Alp 5 Rear Shock
4.XT Brakes
5.LX Brake Levers
6.Chris King Headset
7.Bontrager Superstock Wheel Set
8.Bontrager Crowbar Handle Bar
9.Bontrager Bar-ends
10.XT Cassette
11.LX Chain
12.RaceFace Turbine LP Crank set
13.SRAM 9.0 SL Rear Derailleur
14.LX Front Derailleur
15.SRAM 9.0 SL Shifters
16.Michelin Wildgripper Lite S Tires
17.Kalloy UNO UL SY TEM Seat Post
18.WTB SSTX saddle (Hard as a rock)
19.Welgo Platform Pedals
20.Buying SALSA Seat Skewer Tomorrow
21.Rear Specialized Tube
22.Funny-named Import Italian Front Tube
23.ONYX Series Stem
24.Spacers (don't know the brand)
25.SIS Cable Housings
26.Stock Bottom Bracket
27.Avecot 25 Computer Thingie
28.Tube Adapters (Schrader to Presta - I think - I confuse them sometimes).
-That’s all I can think of right now. | | Bottom Line: | I knew what I was getting when I bought this bike. I got it right before my 15th birthday. I guess it was a present for myself. Well now I'm a 15 year old with a Klein. I never thought I would get a Klein before I got a car. I recommend this bike to anyone. I got really lucky and got the bike for only $535 + $50 shipping. If you can find it for under $1000 get it. I recommend looking at ebay auctions because that is usually the cheapest place to find them (http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?MfcISAPICommand=GetResult&query=mantra&ht=1&itemtimedisp=1&st=2&SortProperty=MetaNewSort&SortOrder=d&category2=7294&BasicSearch=++), or any Klein on ebay (http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?MfcISAPICommand=GetResult&SortProperty=MetaNewSort&query=klein&ebaytag1=ebayreg&ht=1&category2=7294&combine=y&st=2). This bike whis awsome and anyone o disagrees can discontinue living. You might even be able to find a cheap one here on MTBR. Only on word can truly describe this bike (and no it is not Klein) and that word is two words. Those words are "GODLY TOOL." If you havn't experienced the power of Klein, then I command that you do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-(Sorry about any spelling mistakes)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Hill
a Cross Country Rider
from Franklin, WI, USA
Date Reviewed: April 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | John Muir | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | WHEEL & SPROCKET, baby! | | Strengths: | Awesome Klein craftsmenship, beautiful paint, climbs better than a hardtail, decends like a true XC bike should. | | Weaknesses: | No replaceable derailleur hanger =/ | | Similar Products Used: | Any ATV ;) | | Bike Setup: | Cane Creek Crono wheels, Kooka Bonnie forged cranks, Race Face chain rings, headset, and B.B.. Bontrager race-lite accessories, Thompson Elite, Avitar Works, Shimano XT, WTB SSTX saddle, Scott, Avid, etc.. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great example of what a Klein should be. It's too bad Trek had to buy them out and discontinue the Mantra line. The Mantra is a great bike for the dedicated technical cross country rider... BUT, if you are able to get your hands on one of these great bikes, I highly recommend you do it whoever you are... own a piece of history! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tony inker
a
from Glasgow, Scotland, UK
Date Reviewed: April 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The Scottish Highlands | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | bought frame from friend | | Strengths: | awesome klein build as usual ( b4 trek got their hands on them) , looks absolutely stunning (the koi colour is deliciously sexy), lightweight for full sus, FAST!!!! | | Weaknesses: | absolutely bollox rear shok ( fox alpes 5R) - better to chew up a packet of juicy fruit and stick that in place of the shock!! paint looks great but flakes off easily, | | Similar Products Used: | first full sus bike - but 9900 OCLV, Salsa A la carte, Scott Pro Racing........ | | Bike Setup: | XT/XTR mix, hope wheels, bontrager race bits, ringle, syncros, Easton, rockshox judy SL, cane creek AD-10 | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is that as this was my 1st full susser i didnt know what to expect - as a XC rider i thought the rear suspension would have me bouncing around like a kangaroo on a space hopper.......I WAS WRONG!! It goes uphill like its on a winch and downhill it gobbles up the majority of hits except the ones that u shouldnt be going thru in the first place.The original fox shock is totally ineffective -it has very little travel as most of it is taken up by sag (im 180lbs)however once rear shock was changed the bike took on a whole new character and was instantly improved. Unlike most bikes, the older top end kleins seem to become more desirable with age ( like a good wine, a jaguar or an aston martin or raquel welch!!). % big hot ones for value as i got it cheap but 4 hot smouldering ones for the pants rear shock. With a new shock it wgets the 5!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
atomkinder
a Cross Country Rider
from La Crescenta, California, USA
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | the dirt ones - just love to ride | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Bought it used from a friend | | Strengths: | Klein craftsmanship - pretty damn impressive.
Amazing paint job, color and attention to detail.
Still pretty damn light for a 2+ year old full suspension.
Love the adjustable Fox Alps 5 rear damper. | | Weaknesses: | Takes a little getting used to - bike has a different geometry than most.
Original handlebar was too funky for down hilling.
Does not work with conventional bike racks - (chuckle). | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Klein Mantra Race | | Bottom Line: | The Shimano XTR/XT parts are wonderful. I can really appreciate the quality of the parts and how they work
in harmony with the bike and myself. The Fox Alps 5
rear damper and Manitou SX-R front damper do the trick
for my current riding style.
**Swapped out the Bontrager straight handlebars for some Answer(Manitou) 2" rise Pro Taper down hill bars. This setup gives me much more confidence for the down hills - I am not hovering over the front wheel as much. It also lends itself to a tad more comfortable riding position. The bars are much wider too, so I have better steering leverage and again, I am in a more comfortable position.
The bike does have a different geometry so it takes a little getting used to. The wheel base does get wider when the suspension compresses and this makes for a more stable ride, but does feel different than when a four-link suspension bike compresses.
Yes - believe the phrase "climbs like a goat". This bike climbs like no tomorrow. Keep your butt planted on the seat
and push down on the handle bars and you can climb most anything (legs and endurance permitting).
Soaks up the usual road noise pretty will - feels solid and precise.
The best part is that I was able to purchase this $2,500 rig for a sweet $1,000. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike S.
a Cross Country Rider
from Mission Viejo, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | like them all | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Good looks, great craftsmanship, FANTASTIC climber, handles
rolling single track very well. $1700.00 bought it at the end of 1997 | | Weaknesses: | Scary downhill, Rockshox Judy XC is way to stiff, Have to send the Fox alps 5R in for rebuild every year. The rear shock stinkbugs on braking giving you no rear suspension. | | Similar Products Used: | trek single track | | Bike Setup: | Judy XC, LX and XT equip., Thompson seatpost, Selle Italia
Max Trans Am seat,
| | Bottom Line: | I really loved this bike for about two years. Now I am not so sure. I came off of a cheap hardtail so it was a big upgrade for me. I knew nothing about a good FS bike when I bought the Mantra Race. I just knew Klein made the best HT bikes so I thought I couldn't go wrong. It handles in rolling curving single track very well, and it climbs better than anything.
It is very scary going downhill which is something I didn't notice for about two years. During these two years I was riding downhill with my butt off the seat and it felt right for me. Then I started reading the reviews about staying on the seat, and gripping the seat between the legs, and I started to hate the bike. Have you ever tried staying seated on a rocky downhill?? It's very scary especially on this bike. On this bike the seat rises as the rear shock stinkbugs on braking, which makes you feel totally at the mercy of the trail going downhill. So don't stay seated on downhill! As far as squeezing the seat between your legs going downhill (that is f...ing crazy!!) It's way to hard to ride downhill while squeezing the seat between your legs so don't do that either.
Just ride it like it's a hardtail and I think you will be happy. I think the rear suspension should be totally independent of breaking. Am I not right??? That is the major fault of this bike in my opinion. I feel like this bike suspends the rider, not the bike.
If I were looking for a new bike today, I probably would not buy this bike. Today I would buy either a Klein hardtail or some other manufacturer's FS bike.
I have already spent about $2000.00 on this bike and I don't think I should have to replace all the parts to make it ride right. That could be another $2K!
Other Mantra riders tell me what you think, I would be glad to hear from you.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
YaMon
a Weekend Warrior
from Jamaica
Date Reviewed: April 28, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Ball Buster | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Travel, weight. | | Weaknesses: | Hard to get used to, you have to change your riding style, size of frame is very important. | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | Magura Brakes, Monkey Lite Bars, Carbon Cranks, 80mm Atom Bomb, 9.0SL, 517 and Chris King Hubs, XTR Front Der., Flite, Thompson, Kore Stem, Bebops, RaceFace Ti BB. | | Bottom Line: | Where do I even begin to start?? This is definitely a love hate relationship. At the moment I love it. At first I hated it because it scared the hell out of me when coming down steep hills. Never the less, you MUST pay attention when riding this bike. Important to also get the correct size frame for your height, do not try to get a smaller frame and try to get it to fit by using long stems and layed back seatposts...it will not work. I have been flipped on an occation or two, but not lately. I hope it is because I finally have the bike set up for me or that I have finally figured it out. It was important for me to increase the front travel to 80mm, not sure going to 100mm would be better as I have to really pull myself close to the handlebars to keep the front end down when I am climbing steep hills. The bike really handles well in singletrack situations and most of the negative feedback has been on using this bike to descend steeps. What I have done is to increase the travel of the fork to slow it down and ( THIS IS SOOOO IMPORTANT) when you are going down and steep and rocky trails. Stop and slide the seat down as far as it will go. I hang my butt so far off the back of the saddle, it does not even touch. The confidence you will gain by realizing that if you get into trouble, when your foot comes down it will be on the ground instead of you crotch hitting the seat and trying to find the balance to stand on the ground. This bike is a lot of fun and judging from my set up, I do not think it can get much lighter. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay Norejko
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver CO
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Mountaingoat, Winter Park | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Relatively light
Climbs well when seated
Good parts | | Weaknesses: |
Position of derailer and rear brake cables on frame-get muddy and have to replace often.Rear end too heavy for light front end. | | Bike Setup: |
Stock 1998 except:
Replaced 130 mm stem with 110 mm. | | Bottom Line: | The 1998 Klein Mantra Race is a great bike. I got mine for about $1700 although I've seen it for a lot more. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: October 4, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Skaggs Point | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Cheap
Reliable
Strong
Good component mix | | Weaknesses: |
Quirky - at first
A little heavy
Not the right tires spec'd on bike
No lock out on original shock | | Similar Products Used: |
Diamond Back
Various Schwinn URTs
Specialized FSR
Trek Y bike URT | | Bike Setup: |
Mythos XC rear tire
Mythos Back country front.
Stratos Helix DH - more on that in comments. | | Bottom Line: | After being a fairly serious road cyclist for 15 years, I finally warmed up to the idea of trying out mountain biking more seriously than just borrowing a bike from some friends and hitting a fire road. Having several close friends who know the minutia of mountain biking, I was often consulted away from the Klein Mantra. However, my local shop was willing to be fairly competitive in pricing a 98 model (through the incentive of me showing them a SuperGo ad) so I took the approach that the bike looked cool, was cheap, and had a good mix of components for its price. And it was cheap. I like cheap. Anyway, I left the shop with a very nicely priced 98 Klein Mantra Race (Small - I'm 5'9, so that is probably pushing it).While lacking extensible mountain biking skills, I'm no idiot on a bike and am fairly coordinated. The Klein was very difficult to learn to ride. None-the-less, I persisted and my bike shop was very responsive to switching out stems and seat posts. With some effort, I got my bike to be much more rideable. I found the following web site dedicated to the Klein very helpful in setting up the bike and adjusting certain peculiarities: http://www.rdrop.com/users/twest/mtb/mantra.html. I would like to thank the gentleman who put all his effort into the site.I have done extensive riding since my purchase (All over the bay area and Mammoth) and ride fairly aggressive terrain. I have alse riden several other differetn mountain bikes, and have developed a fairly good frame of reference a various qualities of many different bikes.Changing the stem and pushing the seat fully back (perhaps reflective of incorrect frame size) helped prevent the bike from stink bugging, which I have had several occasions to experience. However, with my skills improving I continued to like the bike more and more. The Bontrager slicks were the first to go. That tire selection made no sense given the terrain of my area. I wish my bike shop (which was generally very good) had suggested swapping out tires upon initial purchase.I was never too enthusiastic with the Fox Alps shock. Regardless of how I tuned it, it was either too slushy or too stiff (I had tons of very expert advice and help with the shock. Every rational viable option was tried). Due to an odd set of circumstances, including a dead dog, I was given a big fat DH shock (Stratos Helix DH). Its not supposed to fit this bike, but it can. This adds a bit of weight to be sure, but the ride is so radically different that I think it is worth it. Perhaps I should have tried the Stratos Helix pro or expert. Anyway, this shock helped ameliorate the bike's tendency to stink bug and be quirky so much, that it finally got me to like my Klein after so much going pains we shared together. It has a lock-out feature (unlike the stock shock) which is great.All said and done, My bike weighs stout 27.5lbs (and that with a few titanium replacements here and there). It rides well. I have a spare set of wheels built up for the Bontrager slicks for light trails and the road.If you buy the Klein, be prepared to switch out some stuff. I think the more mountainous your riding terrain is, the more you should look at other alternatives. The more you are interested in XC and keeping fit by climbing, the more you should look at the Klein. My final suggestion is to look into different shocks upon purchase and try to get your shop to swap out for a locking spring coiled, oil damped shock. While a lock-out feature is probably not necessary given the height of the pivot, I have found it helpful.Even with the addtional cost of the shock,the 98 Klein was and is the best riding bike that I have found in its price range. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
M@
a Cross-Country Rider
from mankato MN
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
any | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Incredibly strong frame
pretty light (Klein says 5.7lbs frame and shock) | | Weaknesses: |
Expensive
twitchy at high speed
no disc brake tabs | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized FSR
Proflex Beast
schwinn S-10, S-20
(S-Carbon)
Adroit
Big sur | | Bike Setup: |
97 Race
Full XTR 9-speed, syncros hinged stem, monkeylightCT2 riser, Syncros hardcore HS, Englund cart. (85mm), Full Gore cables, Bontrager Mustang Cer Rims laced to XTR hubs with black DB spokes w/splinedrive nipples, lunar light tubes, panaracer DusterPro tires, bebop pedals thomson post, wtb seat | | Bottom Line: | First of all I should state that I ride this bike everyday -it is my primary source of trasportation. I guess many different people have a bunch of opinions on how a good bike should handle in different situations. It seems that this issue has already been tackled about 150 times so I'm gonna try to focus on other things. This frame is strong. You will find ZERO flex. I weigh a lot and have beat the hell out of this bike and even though I've replaced just about every component on it -save the seat post and seat, I have had no problems with the FOX shock or the main pivot. The paint has chipped in some spots, but has for the most part held up well. If you have the thompson seatpost, don't even think of replacing it -it is ultra light and super strong. According to the syncros web site the mantra is on the list of frames that break seat posts alot. Everyone does different things on their bikes and some bikes do certain things well while others don't, the mantra is one of the few exceptions that is able to perform at a superior level on many different levels and playing feilds. I've had this bike for about two years and have tried a lot of other designs and when it is all siad and done the Mantra has more than held it's own -it has gone far beyond my expectations of what a bike itself can do for a ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Ptasinski
a Weekend Warrior
from Royal Oak, MI
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Bottom Line: | Should have stated Fox Alps 5... sorry | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Ptasinski
a Weekend Warrior
from Royal Oak, MI
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Highland Recreation Area | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
+Very stiff,
+climbs like a monkey,
+No biopacing
+Excellent quality
+looks awesome! | | Weaknesses: |
-Manitou SX-R: fork flexes back and forth quite a bit and lacks external dampening adjustability
-Air Fox Vanilla: has too much dampening and responds poorly to small bumps (normal for air shock)
-Cable routing: I don't like the way the cables are routed below the bottom bracket, they get extremely dirty
-Lack of rear hanger: I believe this has been fixed for 1999
-Headset grommets (more like covers) always slipping off
-rear suspension not fully active (when off seat)
-No bar-ends
-Bottle mount location: this is really the only place to put it but my water bottle always gets dirty. This is a real problem on trails where horses defacate. Get a Camelback
-Rear V-Brake cable routing: The lower portion of my left leg turns black from rubbing against the V-Brake cable. | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek-Ys, Canondale Raven, Gary Fisher Z, A few others | | Bike Setup: |
1998 Mantra Race
Stock except tires and bar-ends | | Bottom Line: | This is an awesome bike for cross country and technical riding. I had to swap out the stock semi-slick tires due to the local trail conditions which tend to be sandy, loose dirt, and mud. Riding down steep loose hills on them was quite scary. This is one of the VERY FEW duelies that did not bob for me under had pedaling. It really climbs well, I have to agree that it climbs better than a hard tail. You have to stay seated whenever possible to get the most performance out of this bike, the rear suspension locks out if you take your weight off the seat. It would be nice if I could get more response from the rear fork but I find it to be a good trade off. The SX-R flexes quite a bit in the forward/back direction and that is kind of bothersome. If it ever breaks I'll replace it with something else. Also, for some stupid reason Manitou puts the dampening adjustment on the inside of the leg while preload and rebound is externally adjustable (this is fault of the fork not the bike of course). Turning ability is wonderful and I can run circles around my hard trail Trek. Due to the fork angle I would not try to use this as a downhill bike... unless you like to pretend you are superman and have a really low insurance deductible for doctor visits.Reliability has been excellent, I have not had to fix or adjust one thing since I purchased it. I've just been cleaning off the mud and lubing the chain and that is about it. Even though I jotted down quite a few weaknesses they are not really critical and I still think that this is the best dual suspension performance oriented cross-country bike out there. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Eastern PA
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Anytthing in the Wissahickon Valley | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Light for F/S
No pivot slop or flex.
Infinitely adjustable rear shock.
Plush rear end.
Looks cool.
Great climber. | | Weaknesses: |
FOX Alps makes wierd suction-y noise.
Seat height may change slightly w/ changes in air pressure. | | Similar Products Used: |
K2 4000 | | Bike Setup: |
Mantra Race ('97)
Long Travel Judy w/ Speed Springs.
Full XT
King No-threadset
Bontrager-Titec bar, bar-ends and stem.
Crossland front wheel, XTR-517 rear (36 H). | | Bottom Line: | This is my first full suspension bike, so I will not say that Klein's design is better than any other. Instead, I will give my initial impressions. Before getting the Mantra Race, I was a hardcore steel hardtail devotee. I used to think (and still do, to some extent) that my old Bianchi Denali RC (handbuilt w/ Columbus Nivachrome EL/OS tubing) was the greatest ride ever for cross-country riding and racing. I was hesitant to move to F/S but, after finding a great deal on the Klein posted in the Marketplace (thanks again, Ed) I couldn't resist. I'm happy I didn't!
I ride technical trails in eastern PA like French Creek, Wissahickon, South Mountain, R. Stover, etc. These are extremely rocky areas w/ lots of roots and logs, technical descents and greuling climbs. I particularly enjoy the latter. Nothing like dropping your riding buddies on a steep, lung busting hill.
Anyway, about the Mantra, It excels in every type of terrain. It climbs over sketchy stuff with ease (Though, to be fair, I'm still adjusting to the increased weight over my HT).
When it comes to anything but the steepest of climbs, weight schmeight. It doesn't weigh that much more than my HT, and the comfort of F/S allows me to ride longer with less fatigue. After a three hour ride at French Creek I was still going strong, while a friend riding a 22 lb. hardtail was dead tired. The advantages of this design far outweigh any disadvantages I can think of. As for those who dislike the mantra because it s#cks for downhill i'd like to say two things:1. URT's are not intended for downhill.
2. Work on suspension and cockpit setup, because mine rips. It allows me to descend nasty hills with complete control at speeds I never thought possible. Overall, this is an outstanding bike. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants the comfort and increased traction of F/S without sacrificing the tracking and singletrack flickability of a hardtail. This is an unbeatable eastern woods cross country machine!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
udder
a Weekend Warrior
from boston, ma
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
The Fells | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
I can't beleive how well this rig climbs!! Very stiff! Great paint job! | | Weaknesses: |
Watch out for steep technical downhills...it takes a lot of effort (for me at least) to navigate them without having a yard sale due to an endo. | | Similar Products Used: |
C'Dale Super V 900 | | Bike Setup: |
Stock Race setup minus the really bad Judy T2 the shop threw on there since I did not want the tripple clamp that it came with. | | Bottom Line: | This bike has made me a better rider. I'm climbing over things that I could never climb with my hardtail. The rear wheel just sticks to the ground. I blew my Judy T2 fork (an Atom Bomb is on the way) so I'm riding my Mantra like Mr. Klein himself...with a rigid fork! With the rigid fork, it handles very well over just about anything you can get your front wheel over. The rear suspension eats up the small stuff that hits the front wheel thanks to the spot on high pivot. This is a great design. If I didn't have to try so hard not to fall off my bike on some downhills I would give the 1998 Klein Mantra 5 Chili's. But since I'm having trouble with that, I'll have to give it 4 Chili's instead. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mr. Floyd
a Weekend Warrior
from Fenix, AZ
Date Reviewed: May 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Schnebly, SEZ AZ | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Lightweight, Stiff, Fast, Responsive, Comfortable. | | Weaknesses: |
Stock Tires & grips, | | Bottom Line: | The Klein Mantra Race (98) is a beautifully made machine. When I picked it up, it was flawless, nicely done.The bike is very lightweight (mine weights 26.3), and predictably Klein stiff, which I appreciate very much. The Bike climbs well in most situations, however when the trail steepens in dry loose terrain, it is difficult to keep the front end down and on track, while keeping your weight back to keep traction on the rear wheel. It's really a fine line or sweet spot that will keep the Mantra on track on a steep climb (for me it's off the seat half way up the boom tube, and a low, almost crouched position).I have also found that using my body weight, (not 10% above) works better overall for rear suspension air pressure.Overall, the Mantra Race is a fine ride, fast, comfortable and fun. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
B. Seated
a Cross-Country Rider
from Northern California
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Excellent climber, good all around FS bike, Klein quality | | Weaknesses: |
Other riders stop and ask too many questions | | Similar Products Used: |
Santa Cruz, Cannondale, Specialized FSR, Trek Y bikes | | Bike Setup: |
Full XT, White Bros. SC90 | | Bottom Line: | First: I'd like to thank everyone who posted an honest and educated review on this site, it was a helpful resource in deciding which bikes to try before buying.Second: I'd like to ask Shawn Collins (who posted a review below) exactly what part of California he was riding in? If it's techical Cross Country your looking for Come on down we've got itThird: Oh the bike review. I bought a '97 race just over a year ago, The reason I bought it wasn't because it was a great down hill bike or because it was the lightest, but because for my riding style it was the best all around FS cross country bike available!
I'm the first to admit that out of the box and new to me I had most of the problems other people describ. Rear end jacking, aggresive seating position, Steep steer angle and a crappy Judy XC fork made for SCARY downhill. Since then I have got rid of the Judy (which failed after 3 months) and replaced it with a White Bros SC90, this fixed the crappy fork and steep steer angle problem, I then changed the flat bars for a set of 1 risers, the seating postion is now better suited for me, the combination of the changes has minamized the rear end jacking effect to the point that I no longer even notice it.The bottom bottom line, I now love this bike, most of the people I ride with who try it are also impressed. It's just to bad some of the people who gave this bike a negative review didn't take the time to set it up correctly. It's been my experience that very few things work correctly right out of the box.I am only going to give this bike four chiles though, since I had to invest another $500 to make it work right! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TOM
a Cross-Country Rider
from HALTON HILLS ONTARIO
Date Reviewed: April 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
PORCUPINE RIM | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
LATERAL STIFFNESS
LOW MAINTENANCE PIVOT
LIGHT WEIGHT
X-COUNTRY ORIENTED
WIERD LOOKS
AIR SPRUNG | | Weaknesses: |
STEEPENING HEAD ANGLE
WIERD LOOKS
AIR SPRUNG
NO REAR DISC MOUNTS | | Similar Products Used: |
ROCKY INSTINCT
PROFLEX 856
SPECIALIZED FSR XC
TITUS RACER X
FISHER JOSHUA XO | | Bike Setup: |
MANTRA RACE
SPIN WHEELS
XTR DRIVE
V BRAKES | | Bottom Line: | THE MANTRA RACE IS AN EXTREMLY SOLID AND RESPONSIVE BIKE. ITS LATERAL STIFFNESS MAKES IT VERY WELL SUITED TO HARDCORE CROSS COUNTRY RIDING.
IVE OWNED AND RIDDEN MANY BIKES AND FOUND THE STIFFNESS OF THE MANTRA THE BEST.A SIMPLE FLEX TEST WILL SHOW HOW GOOD IT IS. STAND AT THE SIDE OF THE BIKE WITH THE HANDLE BAR IN ONE HAND AND THE SEAT IN THE OTHER, PLACE YOUR FOOT ON THE SIDE OF THE PEDAL AND PLACE SOME GENTLE GENTLE PRESSURE AGAINST THE CRANK. FEW BIKES CAN MATCH THE SOLID FEEL OF THE KLEIN. MOST FEEL LIKE NOODLES. MANY RIDERS HATE THE FACT THAT THE SHOCK STIFFENS WHEN STANDING, WELL AS FAR AS CROSSCOUNTRY RIDING IS CONCERNED WHEN IM OUT OF THE SADDLE IM USUALLY HAMMERING HARD AND COULD CAR LESS ABOUT BIKE SUSPENSION WHEN I COULD UTILIZE THE BEST SUSPENSION THERE IS, MY ANKLES, KNEES AND ELBOWS.
MY ONLY COMPLAINT IS DURING VERY STEEP DESCENTS WHEN YOUR WAY OUT OF THE SADDLE,THE STEEP HEAD ANGLE MAKES LIFTING THE FRONT END OVER OBSTACLES
A BIT OF A CHORE, BUT LEARNING HOW TO SHIFT WEIGHT
BACK QUICK AND UTILISE MOMENTUM SURGE IS THE ANSWER.DOWNHILLERS NEED NOT APPLY, THIS BIKE IS NOT WHAT YOU WANT, FREE RIDERS, WHATEVER THE HELL THAT MEANS, NEED NOT APPLY, IF 100% ACTIVE SUSPENSION AND A 28 TO 30 POUND WIEGHT IS WHAT YOU NEED, FORGET IT.HARDCORE CROSSCOUNTRY RIDERS WITH
STRONG LEGS AND GOOD BIKE SKILLS WILL BE TOTALLY BLOWN BY THIS THING. ITS MADE TO HAMMER SINGLE TRACK AND CLIMB BETTER THAN A HARD TAIL. DONT WASTE SPEED ON NOODLES WHEN YOU CAN HAVE ALMOST OPTIMUM ENERGY TRANSMISSION, AND PERFECTLY SELECTIVE SUSPENSION WITH THE MANTRA. HAPPY TRAILS | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sickly Airless
a Cross-Country Rider
from Not NY
Date Reviewed: March 27, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
trails with up and down | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: |
looks kinda cool | | Weaknesses: |
the humungous, jacked up, spot off pivot point | | Bottom Line: | Sick Air (see review below) MUST ride nothing but downhills cuz anyone who thinks 29lbs is nice weight needs to get off the pipe.....and I wouldn't trust you any farther than I could throw you, so I doubt that you ride trails any more technical than anyone else. Come out to Tahoe and see where the real technical stuff is. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rev.Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from mass
Date Reviewed: March 24, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
very light good climber | | Weaknesses: |
evrything else
sux at tech.,downhill(any hilleven a 50'one) | | Similar Products Used: |
gary fisher Z0 THEY SUCK TOO | | Bottom Line: | THIS BIKE BLOWS !!!!! IF ALL YOU DO IS RACE THOSE FALT SMOOTH CHEEZY NORBA RACES ITS GOOD(MAYBE)IF YOU RIDE ROUGH TECH. WITH DROP &JUMPS ITS NO GOOD I MEAN NO DAM GOOD IF FACT IT SMELLS BUT ON THE OTHER HAND IT CLIMBS BETTER THEN ANYTHING OUT THERE SO IF ALL YOU DO IS CLIMB AND RIDE ON FLAT TRAILS YOU MIGHTLIKE IT (GOD I HOPE NOT )SELLIN MY 98 FOR $600 OR LESS JUST TO GET RID OF IT SEEMS LIKE NO ONE WANTS IT GARY KLIEN SHOULD STICK TO HIS SHAVEN LEGS ROADIES TYPE BIKES | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sick Air
a Downhiller
from NY
Date Reviewed: March 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Orgasm Too | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Unbelievable climber
Nice weight
Good Value
Plush | | Weaknesses: |
Not plush when standing | | Similar Products Used: |
GT LTS
Proflex Beast
Specialized FSR | | Bike Setup: |
XTR
Marzocchi Z1 Bam
Maguras | | Bottom Line: | The two reviews below are not even remotely true. This is one of the best all around FS bikes on the market. Mine weighs about 29 pounds and still climbs better than my HT. It is a highly technical bike, great in singletrack. If you set up the shock right it works great for big drops and jumps. By the way, because I give it 5 stars im not hardcore? Trust me, I ride more technical trails then you. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a racer
from Colorado Springs
Date Reviewed: March 14, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been reading these reviews off and on for about a year now and after riding my Mantra Race for about a year, it's time to give my 2 cents worth. I've tried hard to like this bike (especially after spending the $ on it). If you want a plush seated climb or want to ride rolling single track with out too much technical challenge then this bike is for you. If you like hardcore, rocky technical singletrack full of ledges, drop-offs, big ruts and roots this bike is SCARY. I read all the talk about it's the rider and not the bike blah blah blah, but I've been riding and racing long enough (10+years) to know that in this case it IS the bike and NOT the rider. This bike will take the confidence right out of you. I am constantly feeling (no matter how much I tweak the damping and rebound) like I am going to get jacked right over the bars and the geometry changes that occur during hard braking, combined with the STEEP head tube make this bike WAY to unpredictable on the real technical stuff. IMHO, I gotta think that all these weekend warior people giving this bike a 4 and 5 star rating don't do much hard core, technical riding. If anybody in the CO. Springs area wants a deal on a year old Mantra Frame, email me cause I'm hopping back on my Klein Rascal HT....Now thats a sweet ride! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed Mago
a cross-country rider
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: March 7, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I would have given this bike a 5 star review for cross country riding, until I noticed cracks on the swingarm. It climbs great, but is just okay on downhills. It handled great on tight singletrack. If Klein replaces my 97 Mantra Race with a 99 carbon Mantra race, I might consider a 5 star rating. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trailrider
a
from Spokane
Date Reviewed: March 6, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
What is it about the Mantra that inspires folks like Fatta? Are they the kind of downhillers that are basically road riders that can't appreciate the bike? Are they people who want one but can't afford one, and are driven to some kind of jealous rage? Is the Mantra just too different looking to fit inside their smallish minds? I've had my '98 Race for almost a year now and done well over 100K feet of vertical on it on mostly steep, technical singletrack. I own other good MTBs, but I like riding the Mantra the most by far because it is a very efficient climber, a quick and agile handler, very comfortable, but mostly just because it is more fun to ride than any other bike I've tried. That means I ride more than I otherwise would, which is what it's all about. I'm happy enough with my bike that I don't feel compelled to put down other rider's choices of hardware. If it works for them and they're having fun, great! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
FATTA
a downhiller
from N.E.,usa
Date Reviewed: March 5, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
YOU GUYS ARE ALL F**k*D UP!
THE MANTRA RACE SUCKS!
6.2 inches of travel uhh?
Is any of that included in the STINK BUG action? GET REAL PEOPLE!
You need to ride other full suspension bikes and you'll THROW that Mantra where it belongs! on a pile of sh*t!
ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIESZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES ZERO ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES ZERO CHILLIES!!!I get it! the high reviews must be from Gary Klien himself!
lol
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andre Bourque
a cross-country rider
from USA, CT.
Date Reviewed: January 23, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Klien racer now for about 8 weeks. So far out of all the others I have tried, this bike bye far exceeds them all from my point of view. It fits me like a glove and handles both climbing as well as decending exceptionaly well.
Just to let you know I'm no mountain biking expert I'm just your average joe who enjoys a chalange and excitement in life. At 43 I'm feeling great and plan to keep riding til I can't anymore. Thats why I decided to invest into a good bike and hope it holds up for me. But for now I'm very happy with my purchace and would highly recomend anyone looking for a bike to try this baby out. She's awesome!!! And let me tell you I having a blast with it. If you want to know more just e-mail me. I love talking about my new bike...... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a weekend warrior
from NJ
Date Reviewed: December 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just thought you all should know,,,, I live in NJ, own a 97 Klein Mantra Race, and ride a lot of Rocky places...(Live real close to Chimney rock) I think I have the first reported cracked frame,,,, it cracked just below the pivot, on the URT, on both sides,,, I was shocked to find out... I am not that heavy, 160lbs,, but I do tend to jump a lot of things,,, still , I dont think this should of happened because I'm not jumping off 10 ft walls or anything....
I gave the bike back to Somerville cyclery,,, the Klein rep is gonna look at it, and hopefully I get a new URT at no cost...
I'm just lucky the damm thing didn't snap off with me on it...
Apart from that Small problem, I still give the Klein 4 stars... Handles Great, Great looking bike.
Scott | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn Collins
a weekend warrior
from Issaquah, WA
Date Reviewed: December 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned a medium '98 Klein Mantra race for about 6 months now, after having previously ridden a Trek y-33 for two years. Overall the Mantra is a superbly crafted bike, with nice welds, lines, and paint. Below I've summarized my views concerning the Klein's performance:Rigidity: The Klein, with its large boom and stays, is extremely rigid (more so than any multi-pivot bikes that I've ridden). This rigidity allows the rider to physically force the bike through corners and over obstacle, without worrying about erratic wheel tracking. Additionally, power transfer is greatly enhanced over a noodle-bike such as the Y-33. Finally, increased rigidity contributes to the Mantra's lightning fast steering response.Steering: FAST!!! The Mantra's steering is perfectly suited to the technical trails prevalent in the northwest. Just pick your line and follow it. The bike easily navigates through the densest tree stand, root mass, or rock garden. This is a nice advantage in technical ascents, but a definite disadvantage on descent where speeds exceed 30 mph. As a student in California, I can attest that the Mantra was not designed for California trails; too many fire roads, too much sand, and a lack of technical challenges. Braking: Very good. Although braking unloads the rear wheel, causing the rear suspension to unload completely and effectively increasing the increasing the head-angle…..resulting in even faster steering. Suspension (front): I recommend disassembling the fork before even taking out on the trail and greasing the sliders and bushings with Judy-butter or slick-honey. Fork action is the comparable to that of the Judy (with speed springs, and a gem cartridge) which I had on the Y-33; very good. The Manitou is laterally pretty rigid, though it does defect with side impacts and off-camber turns….a problem with all telescopic forks. This problem can be reduced a bit with a good brake-booster.Suspension (rear): WOW!!!!! The Mantra's suspension is perhaps not as plush as that of a Cannondale, but it is much more usable. The rear wheel sticks like glue on ascents…so forget the old, my rear wheel spun out, that's why I'm walking excuse. You can hit large roots or logs and simply ride over them. Again the suspension was been tailored to technical riding.Sizing: fit is always a personal thing. Just tryout all sizes before buying. Personally I ride a medium, even though I am 5'11 and weigh 170 lbs.Overall: I love this bike for Northwest riding, but hate it for California riding. If you are a technical rider, with good handling skills, then the Mantra is for you. Riding this bike requires a fair amount of attention…lose that attention for one moment and you'll find yourself flat on your face. Ridden correctly the Mantra will reward you. Ridden haphazardly, the Mantra will punish you. (Oh ya, in case you are wondering, I think the Mantra is much better than the Y-33)
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Submitted by
Sick_Air
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What are all of you people on?!? I have had this bike for 6 months and I still think it sucks. At first I thought it was great because I came from a HT and had never ridden FS. I test rode it in the bike shop parking lot only unfortunately and couldnt make good judgement. After seeing all of these good revies I thought it had to be great. It is not anywhere close to great. It does climb very well, but sucks ass on the downhills. The SX-R fork is a piece of crap too. After I rode more FS bikes I learned how much Kleins suck. Buy a fully active bike like a Specialized or Kona and pass this one by. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crash W
a weekend warrior
from santa cruz
Date Reviewed: November 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had the bike for about 6 months now. It was a pain in the @#$$%$# to get set up, but now it is a rocket! I initially tried to set the bike according to the Klien's recommened methods. This worked to a point. I had the Fox air shock at 200 PSI, (10% over my weight) and got resonable results. At that point, the bike still had a bad under-steer, and would nose over steep mougols (throwing me a couple of times) I added Velociraptor tires, an Advocat AMPD X-Country R seat, and changed the handle bar stem to a 3 15%. Now I have experimented with a much softer setting. With the shock at 10% lower than my weight, and the front shock at its full soft setting, the bike is fantastic. All of the handling problems went away. This bike continues to amaze me. I see a lot of people with Santa cruz tazmons, I kick'em in the but every time! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Arthur
a weekend warrior
from Redmond, WA
Date Reviewed: September 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a 97 race during the end of year sale last fall. Excellent bike. I have been completely happy with the handling both up hill and down. I put englund cartridges in the judy and I'm finally happy with the fork performance. The only thing I don't like is the cable routing. I'm in washington about an hour from the Klein company and it rains 9 mos out of the year here. The exposed cables at the bottom of the big tube really get a lot of crap thrown on them. I don't know what they were thinking with the cables. I guess it must rain less in Chelalis. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Milk Man
a cross-country rider
from NJ
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my second review of the bike I got end of last Yr. It is fantastic.
As others have said; it just seems to get better. The more you know it the more you love it! The SX-R fork is great and has broken in to be just shy of plush (initially I thought it was too stiff). I ride about 50 miles per wk on mostly
single and double track, weigh about 165, 40 yrs old. My only concern is the fox air shock. Can anyone tellme if this has a certain life-expectancy or maintenance schedule. I am not looking foward to riding the bike if the shock fails! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BALD FAT OLD GUY
a weekend warrior
from NORTHERN MICHIGAN USA
Date Reviewed: September 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
IMPORTANT UPDATE! I'VE BEEN RIDING THIS BIKE FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS NOW...IT'S AWESOME!THE MORE I RIDE IT THE MORE I WANT TO RIDE IT.IT TOOK SOME GETTING USED TO THE WAY THE SUSPENSION FEELS AS IT WORKS, BUT NOW I JUST WANT TO RIDE. HANDLING IS VERY PRECISE, RIDE IS AS SMOOTH AS A SILK, AND I CAN CLIMB BETTER THAN EVER BEFOR. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A FS BIKE, GRAB ONE OF THESE NOW. I AM SURE YOU WILL BE AS PLEASED AS I AM.note:i did install a syncross rise bar mainly because i have a short torso,and i am old and fat. AGAIN MR.KLEIN,..THANK YOU | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fernando
a cross-country rider
from Bogota
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After having all sorts of trubles with an Outland VPP5 I decided on looking for a frame with very easy manteniance and after searching I decided on the Klein Mantra Pro frame and so far I´m really delighted with It. Its handling is superb specially on the techinal stuff. This bike outperforms by far my old Outland. I give it all the peppers I can find. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Klingler
a cross-country rider
from California
Date Reviewed: August 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 97 Race and have been riding it for almost two seasons, this bike is a
dream to ride. It handles great on the singletrack and motors right through the bumpy stuff. It's not the plushist downhill but it does the job for me. Anyone who is looking for a cross-country bike to go out and have a blast on this is it. When climbing steep technical stuff the back end stays hooked up perfectly when sitting in the saddle. On longer climbs it doesn't bob at all except when you stand up and try to hammer. The best thing to do is stay seated and spin as fast as you can. I would give the bike 5 more stars if I could!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a cross-country rider
from SF Bay Area
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
If you are looking for the best XC suspension bike, this is it. The one bike that handles and climbs like a HT but descends like a dualie. After doing oodles of research and test riding (Y-bikes, Heckler/Tazmon, Ellsworth Truth, Ventana Marble Peak), the Mantra was the clear choice for me. Why?1. Incredible lateral stiffness. Combined with the dual suspension, you can just rail it through corners seated and let your tires do the work. The grip is so much more than on a HT because the rear wheel stays down.2. Climbing ability. The Spot-On pivot makes the bike feel like a caterpillar going over bumpy terrain. You can tell from the sound, or lack thereof, of your rear tire that you are constantly hooked up and not wasting any energy.3. Simplicity. One massive pivot connecting a giant torsion box and beefy rear truss. What could be simpler? My second choice was the Ellsworth Truth, but I didn’t want to deal with all the pivots and linkages that I have heard can be pretty high maintenance.4. The Mantra has made me a better rider. I’m climbing faster and descending with a level of confidence and speed I did not think possible. Over loose technical stuff that used to scare me, I just point and go. The best part, it doesn’t beat me to death like my Klein HT. I feel totally fresh after a four hour ride and I’m yearning to do it again the next day.For those reviewer here who had some trouble with the feel and the jacking up, this may be a result of riding it and expecting it to be like a HT or fully active design. It is not, and not supposed to be. For XC it is better because there is no power loss on climbs/sprints/bumps. The funky feel is part of the bikes unique design and I think its the best out there. My only regret is that I did not buy one earlier in the season.Thanks to all Mantra owners posting here. It helped my decision a lot. And thanks to Gary Klein for making awesome bikes by great engineering, design, and craftsmanship.
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Submitted by
Ned Flanders
a
from Georgia
Date Reviewed: August 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is the Porsche's of mountain bikes. I was looking for a full suspension design that was relatively light and would perform well enough for cross-country racing. I tried everything from Cannondale to Trek, K2, etc, etc. The klein outperformed all hands down. You know all those hokey adds about the attention to detail, stiff chainstays and so forth. I thought it was all propaganda B.S.....I was wrong, all those little things really made a difference. This bike climbs like a goat, sprints like a hardtail, and the rear suspension is adjustable enough to go from very plush to almost inactive at the turn of a knob. I have also heard exceptional tales of customer service. Gary Klein is the MAN! I'll be looking foreward to what is coming up in 99 and 2000 from Klein. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
No Fear
a weekend warrior
from Victoria BC Canada
Date Reviewed: July 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I had a 97 Comp prior to the 98 Race. I had cracks in the URT appear on the comp. My Comp was with the delux paint which Klein could no longer match, because of this Klein (Trek)sent me a brand new Race frame complete with Cane Creek rear shock. Was I happy to see that. I have had several other makes of bikes, however this is my first FS. I prefer the FS as it is much friendlier to the body. I have a Manatuo FS Ti for my front shock and it has served me well. It takes hard hits and asks for more. I much prefer the Cane Creek over the Coil Over Vanella I was running on the Comp. There is far less slop with an air shock. I went to RaceFace Hi Rise bars to illiminate the feeling of being launched forward on steep decents, more like drop offs than decents. I ride very technical downhill and this bike soaks it all up. Great for climbing too! I do not feel fatigued at the end of a 3-4 hr. ride of hard technical and am ready to do it all over again the next day. I have talked two of my friends into Mantra's and they thank me for it every time we're out. Way to go Mr. Klein! I welcome any email. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crash
a cross-country rider
from Scottsdale, AZ
Date Reviewed: July 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've ridden a large '98 Mantra Race for 6 months and over 900 miles of mud, sand, rock and gravel. The bike is as fine a piece of craftsmanship as you'll find from the best manufacturers, and the bike is spec'd with top notch parts that should make the bike race worthy, but...the large frame is really a medium, they spec it with a 150mm Icon stem so it feels roomy until you're barrelling down some rocky descent and find your weight so far in front of your front hub that sitting on your rear tire can't help...it takes a 110mm stem to get you within range of your front axle so you can enjoy the plush ride down. Then you have a much smaller cockpit (medium) and try climbing slickrock without pumping up the (fabulous) Fox rear air shock with 200+psi and stick your chest out over your bars to keep the front (terrific) Bontrager ST slick tracking. Overall, I'm very impressed with Klein's ability to manufacture and spec a bike, but very disappointed in the bike's performance for me. I understand the new '99 Mantra will come in XL and has a new design; I 'm not sure I'll take the chance to find out if they got it right this time. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jimmie callow
a cross-country rider
from new jersey
Date Reviewed: June 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
this bike is realy good at xcountry stuff i changed the weelset to mavic crossmax and race face cranks and a white brothers tybar i realy love this baby . much more then my gt fs which i also love if you want a bike that can climb as well as decend get this baby | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bald fat old guy
a weekend warrior
from northern michigan
Date Reviewed: June 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
UPDATE...I have got about 150 miles on my mantra race now and all I can say is WOW! It climbs like there is no tomorrow,handles like a Porsche in the singletrack,and is smooth as silk over the washboards.I did however,change the fork to a Judy SL.and the wheelset to NUKE PROOFS.THANK YOU GARY! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neal
a cross-country rider
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: June 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I am really enjoying my Mantra. It is quick, balanced and fast. I heard Gary Klein designed it originally with a rigid front fork. I am going to install one and give it a try. If I don't like it on the dirt, I will use it for road riding as I try to do a fair amount of riding on the road. Has anybody tried the Klein with a rigid front fork? Impressions? Thoughts? Ideas? Let me know.Neal | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a cross-country rider
from Albuquerque, NM
Date Reviewed: June 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been riding a Mantra Race for about 1 year. I have owned both the 97 and 98 models. (97 model was stolen). The Manitou SX-R TPC fork is an improvement over the RS Judy on the 97 model. However I had to paint the fork because I couldn't deal with ugly color. Also the 98 model comes with Time pedals which perform better than Shimano. Otherwise the bikes are similar. The Mantra is definitely not a downhill bike, but it is a very good singletrack bike. The steering is very quick. If you like singletrack and you like to climb this is an excellent bike however if you enjoy high speed downhills look elsewhere. 4 chiles since the bike is not perfect but I think it is one of the best full suspension bikes for riding singletrack. I've also owned a AMP b-3 and the Mantra is a better bicycle. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Squishy
a weekend warrior
from east coast USA
Date Reviewed: June 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Mantra for about one year now, initially it took some getting used to going from a hardtail to FS. Now I don't even look at my old HT. Every thing that has been said about the bikes climbing ability is right on, it climbs like a goat!! I've put close to 600 miles on this bike and don't regret any of them. As far as changes from the original; there are many and it's taken some time to work everything out but I'm almost ( I think ) there.
Fork: Rock Shox Judy SL with long travel kit
Shifters: SRAM Grip Shift Attack 8.0(awesome by the way)
Stem: Kore Elite
Handlebar: Go Fast 1 1/2 riser
Bottom Bracket: Syncros Ti
Crankset/Chainrings: Kooka forged
Front Derailleur: Shimano XTR
Rear Derailleur: Shimano XTR Rapid Rise (this took some getting used to!)
Wheelset: Mavic 217 SUP with White Industries Hubs
Overall I've put a lot of time and money into this bike but I've got to say this thing is the BOMB! I wouldn't trade it for anything else. If it's going uphill or downhill or cross country that's your bag it doesn't matter this bike (stock works pretty well too!) is the way to go. Klein's customer service was way better than I expected the 2 times I contacted them. Overall nothing but positives!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave
a cross-country rider
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
'98 Klein Mantra Race: Initial opinion was mixed on the bike, because I went over the handle bars on a trail I do all the time on my first time out on it. And not just once, but three times! Clearly I had some adjusting to do, and not just to the bike, either. So much for the honeymoon! Without prejudice I increased all preloads and sped up rebound, moved my CG back with an off-set seatpost, and Viola! Living in the desert I ride rolling, rocky single-track with technical climbs and some sections that are almost trials-level of technical rock-hopping. I'm 5'10 and 165 lbs. My last bike was an F700 Cannondale, which I loved for it's precise steering and rigid, eager climbing nature. And you know what? The Mantra took everything I loved about the F700 and made the ride smoother, faster, and funner. Hardtails are sweet, and I seriously considered a light Klein HT, but I come back from longer rides on rocky trails on the Mantra and want to do it all over again the next day. Unheard of on the 'dale! I recently rode three consecutive days on long, perfect single-track and wanted more when it was all over. And isn't being able to ride more, more enjoyably, with less wear and tear what it's all about? The Mantra is the right bike if you are patient enough to dial it in for your weight and riding preferences, and you want full-boing comfort without giving up the climbing and technical performance of your favorite HT. I'm still ONLY giving up 4 peppers, because 5 peppers is for this bike when it weighs less than 23lbs. and doesn't need a second mortgage. We can always dream... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Judy
a weekend warrior
from Irvine, CA
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Love this BIKE!!! I got a Mantra Race two weeks ago. Klein did an awesome job. Overall, great bike. The manitou fork is a bit too small to take the front wheel off and on. I have a small compact car and I don't carry my bike rack all the time so it's difficult to take the wheel a part for transportation. Changing my fork to a Marzocchi z-2 bam. Yeah!!!
I also DESPISED the Time pedals. Couldn't use 'em at all. They were so hidiously uncomfortable!!! I had to twist my ankle so far out, I almost sprained it one time. Luckily my sister was holding the bike so I could get out of them. I traded them in for Shimano 747's. Great pedals. Never again Time. Shimano all the way baby!!! Always been a die-hard fan of Shimano. Make the BEST fishing equipment in the world. Pricey, but you get what you pay for.
In general, this bike is basically the bomb baby. Although I had problems with the air shock (core valve was not on tight enough) and I am changing the shock (which are going to my boyfriend), I can't be anything but HAPPY! :)
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neal
a cross-country rider
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: June 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Mantra for 2 months. I teach English at North Bay Orinda School in Orinda, & I also have a mt. bike riding class (we ride every 3 days a week). It is a PE class in which the students receive a grade & credits (literature, writing, mt.biking...I couldn't ask for a better job). About 3 months ago my old Fisher AL-1 (DX equipped) was stolen and after, the typical, much research the Mantra seemed like the bike for me. Even though I loved my Fisher, the Mantra is a better bike; it has surpassed all expectations: it is quicker, faster, and is as well balanced. I get up and down the hills of Tilden, Briones & Oakland faster & with my body left in better shape.
In addition, I am doing more road riding for conditioning. I love the speed & look of the bike when I slap on my extra set of rims with Continental's 26 X 1 tires.
I am still working on fine tuning the Manitou & Fox shocks; if you have any suggests for fine tuning or significantly helpful upgrades, let me know.
The bike has rejuvinated my passion for riding. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crash W
a weekend warrior
from Sausalito, CA
Date Reviewed: June 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got the bike a few months ago, and it gets better every time I ride! It's a little hard to tune, but I now have the bike tuned about 90% and like it better and better. Friends comment that I climb up, and go down a whole lot faster than before I got the klien. I feel that I can climb better, but the bike still has a little under steer that I have to figure out be fore the setup is perfect. The ride is like a caddilac when going down hill....yee haaaa!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a cross-country rider
from Pasadena CA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Mantra Race (large) for just over two weeks now, and have put close to 75 miles on it on some pretty killer rides in the local San Gabrial Mtns. In short, The bike ROCKS! Being my first full sus. bike, and I was a reluctant convert... I wanted a XC bike with full suspension. The Mantra Race fits this criteria superbly. This is a really agile bike and as many have attested, a great climbing and single track ride. Though a tad heavier than my C'dale HT, it is more nimble and far more comfy to boot. I feel less wear on my body after long rides, clean single track sections never done before, and get to the top of some serious climbs with no time loss and without bobing up the hill. This is NOT a downhill bike as the front end is far too agressive of an angle. In my opinion, the bike works as advertised. This is an excellent XC full suspension bike! Way to go Klein. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
claire bender
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: June 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
the klein mantra looks weird i have to admit my first impresion of it was it looks like a childs BMX bike. so i tried my mates large frame it was a spot to big but not by much anyway, i go up the hill on 110th street at 15 mph jeez
on my hard tail gt i never did more then 10 mph this bike will make you climb and climb and when you need to come down make sure you got rubbers :) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hojo
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: May 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a 98 Mantra Race frame and built it up to be my ultimate bike last December. I have ridden this bike extensively, 3days a week, from Xmass till. This is a very solid well designed bike, the rear performs as advertised, great traction and eats ledges. However the steep front end makes riding the steep climbs and decents I like a real chore. I switched bikes to a friend's Turner Burner and cleaned a 5 mile section that troubled me the most on my Mantra. Yes the Turner can spin out a bit but the front end tracks the narrow tight steeps where the mantra never could. So I just returned the mantra to the dealer for a full refund. After months of fighting a wandering front end and changing stems and ride position I finally measured the Headtube angle. It measured 73deg with a SID air Englund fork. I e-mailed Gary Klein thinking I had the wrong frame or a missbuilt frame as the spec with my fork is 71.5deg. Gary assured me that was how it was designed. I'm a Klein fan, having owned 3 other kleins, and consider his rear design the only acceptable URT, BUT I have to rate this bike a 2 for my type of riding. However I give Klein/Trek a 5 for customer service, Gary Klein's quick responce, and Klein/Trek's service orientated responce is not the norm I encounter in this industry. Over all rating a 3 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fly714
a weekend warrior
from New York
Date Reviewed: May 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I picked up a left over '97 Race late last fall at a bargain basement price. My first upgrade was to replace the brake levers, shifters and rear derailleur with ESP 9.0sl components, which turned out to be great move. After riding the bike for about 7 months, and having just gotten back from 6 days at Moab, the bike rides like a dream. No question there is a learning curve involved, but once you are accustomed to how the bike behaves, its amazing what it will go through. My only complaint is that the cables are rubbing some of the paint from the frame as they snake past the top of the fork.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Rogo
a weekend warrior
from Los Angeles, California
Date Reviewed: May 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just took my new Mantra Race on its maiden voyage in the Santa Monica Mountains. With a new bike, different pedals (now Looks versus my old Shimano 747s), I fell in love all over again. This is Gary's ultimate product; I can't seem to find any room for improvement. It stays steady in the gravel without sliding, holds corners and ruts beautifully, gives the rider a complete sense of control, loses no steam on the climb and balances like a dream. They just don't make a better mountain bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd
a cross-country rider
from Indianapolis, IN
Date Reviewed: May 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got my '98 Mantra Race about a week ago from the patient and helpful guys at A-1 Cyclery (thanks, Tom...). Can't say enough about the workmanship and spec'd components. Best welding and paint I've seen this side of an Indy car--a real showstopper. I measure it at 26.5 lb which means the catalog is accurate.It's been VERY wet here so I haven't done any serious trail riding on it yet. In the course of my fitting/fine-tuning I can say the bike has a very solid, crisp, and satisfying feel. Love the ATAC padals and HUGELY adjustable suspenders on both ends. I'm 5'10 190 lb and the medium size is a great fit. Only change I might make is to go to a 10 degree stem (my bike came with a zero degree although all catalog photos seem to show a 10...?). This puts the bars about four inches below the seat for my 32 inseam which is probably great for racing but a bit agressive (lots of weight on hands) for noncompetitive riding.Probably not fair to rate it yet, but I am so dazzled by this machine that I can't help but award five flamers (the prompt and detailed responses I've received from Klein to a couple of setup questions via email factor in...). I plan to check back in to re-evaluate after doing some real riding on it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JD
a cross-country rider
from Oakham, MA
Date Reviewed: April 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just purchased a Mantra Race after doing a ton (probably too much) research. I've been ridding and racing mountain bikes for 15 years. I've had three differnet hardtails the latest being a Cannondale M700 with a Rock Shock Judy XC (a very light, stiff, and fast bike).
I've taken the Mantra for three very long marathon rides - each time on a differnet type of terrain. My first impression was kind of neutral - I think I needed to get used to the FS and the radically different geometry. Once I got used to the bike - I LOVED IT!
It climbs incredibly well (if you stay seated). It is very fast on hard-packed singletrack and fire roads. It descends steeps very nicley. It is surprising quick and nimble on twisty, technical trails and I can ride for hours without feeling completely beat up!
The only thing I don't like about the bike are the tires (Bontrager Revolts), they are terrible in the mud, loose traction on steep loose sections, slip on loose leaves and pine needles, and the front tire washes out on fast, hard turns. The only place they shine is on hardpacked stuff - where they are extremely fast!
Overall - THIS BIKE IS GREAT. I love it!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vince Nadal
a cross-country rider
from North New Jersey
Date Reviewed: September 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
What a great bike. I bought a 97 at half retail price and have been riding like mad ever since. I bought a Med size, I am taller than Mr Klein reccomends for the size but I felt much more comfortable than on the L model. I dont notice any difference in the bikes action. I give the ride five peppers
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe MTB
a cross-country rider
from Mountain View, CA
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Check out the Joe MTB page (under construction) at:
http://www.reifer.com/joemtb
Joe MTB rides a Klein Mantra Race | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roni Michel
a cross-country rider
from Laguna Beach
Date Reviewed: September 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Yellow ya all happy mantra lovers!Just wanted to post an update on my Mantra race to reassure all those new owners....
After over 3 months of almost daily spring/summer pounding of this baby, I can only said that the ride keeps only getting better!
As the days and rides go by, I had put this bike throuhg all the XC experiences I can possible think off ....... and it keeps tracking, sorting through dirt and flying up and down hill like no other.
I have not only became a better rider but I now come home and still can move!
I'm about to take off for a long journey and the Race will go with me. After all we have share cannot imagine not leaving it behind, and since it requires almost no major maintenance..... tha's my deal.
So happy trails to you all; hope you enjoy your bike as much as I do. I have definitely found my religion mon!
Congratulations to Gary Klein for a major score but most of all to the guys whom manage this page; they're really making a difference keeping us away from the often on sided MTB zines reviews.Cool runnings and happy trails,
ElCapitan | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George
a weekend warrior
from Branford,CT
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've joined the chorus of satisfied Mantra race riders. Did lots of homework and test rides on the competition. I talked to owners of other bikes and this bike, as well as careful scrutiny of the bikes reviewed on this site and voila, the answer is Mantra Race. Many thanks to those that gave up time on the trail to post their opinions about this bike and others so I could cut down on the bike mag BS. Ive ridden the bike only twice but I can say unequivically that it makes me a better rider. I have a Merlin that I absolutely love but it just doesn't allow me to do what I can do with this bike. It climbs and descends and picks its way through the rough stuff no fuss, no muss and leaves me less tired to boot. If you can find a deal on a 97 go for it. Even if you must pay retail on a 98 you won't be disappointed. Gary Klein got it right with this design. The large heavy duty pivot point looks bullet proof and the only maintainance necessary is keeping the rear shock clean. Only time will tell if this bike lives up to its initial impression but I look forward to finding out. Ive made no changes to the bike as sold except to put a broken-in WTBSSTK saddle in place of the WTB saddle it came with and a pair of broken-in 747s. This bike gets my full endorsement. See you on the trail. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Milk Man
a cross-country rider
from NJ
Date Reviewed: September 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I love my bike! If you are thinking of buying this bike run, don't walk to your LBS. Mine is a 98. Hate the color but so what, soon it will be coated with mud. Still the 98 Comp is much cooler color but needs a few upgrades. (If you can find one of the suposed 97 Comps @ $1,000 it is a steal since you can add all the necessary upgrades for 5 - 600) The Race had every thing and more. I have been riding my first Mtn Bike for the past 7 yrs. It was totally rigid (rigid he-he, yeah rigid) My LBS gave a great deal so I went for the Race. More than anything else, this bike feels right, it rides alot like my old bike. No flex, very stable, nimble and no bobbing (Bobbing; SHUT-UP Buttmunch!). All this and silky smooth and climbs great. Only caveat: the tires suck for all-condition X-C riding. Trad'em at time of purchase if you can. I want to thank all the people who posted their reviews in this web site. And those individuals that returned answers to my questions. More than anything else, this is how I decided how to invest my hard earned dollars. I also extend my thanks to the creator and operator of this site. Due to supposed liablility I could only test ride on pavement. This is like...
Any way, buy a Mantra: you will be Rigid (even if you are a woman)! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bowah
a cross-country rider
from Mt. View, California
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
It's the Flying Bratwurst! (made of Seitan, for you vegies). What a fun bike. I almost bought a really lite hardtail - I was very skeptical of most FS bikes - but after one test ride on the Mantra I was sold (getting 1/3 off list price didn't hurt either). It's the Cadillac of MTB's. Your body will thank you after long rides. The Fox shock is great, but I'm gonna have to trick out the Judy to get more plush travel. This thing climbs great seated or standing (a la hardtail). I was a timid downhill rider on my Htail, but now I fly by everyone while I laugh - ha ha - I don't even have to pick a good line anymore. Another cool thing is y'can adjust the rear shock on the fly (if you have long arms), anticipating a long climb or downhill. It ain't that lite, and it ain't that cheap - but it's the most funnest bike I ever been on. Woo hoo. Stop staring at the screen and go out and ride! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stan
a cross-country rider
from San Jose
Date Reviewed: September 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Mantra Race for several weeks now and it is just awesome. I traded my M2 Stump for this rig and no regrets. I thought the M2 was stiff so I can sprint fast, but the Mantra jams even faster. I think it's due to the GIAGANTIC and short chain stays! I'm not a very good climber, so I can't really comment on it's climbing ability, but it seems like I can do a little better on the Mantra. The rear end is so much more forgiving over the rough compared to the M2. The rear end is so plush when seated, it just eats everything up. It just tracks so much better and easier than my hardtail. When standing, it feels just like the M2 hardtail. Even with Speed Springs, Risse Jem Cartridge, my old Judy SL legs, and bar ends, this baby weighs in at 26.3lbs. The one and only complaint I have on this bike is the awfully uncomfortable WTB SST saddle. I went with my trustworthy Vetta TriShock saddle instead. I used to be anti FS, but after the Mantra, hardtails are as extinct as cantilever brakes. I give the Mantra Race 9 hot chilies. ( Oh, you have to look really hard to see the other 4!) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russ
a weekend warrior
from LONG ISLAND, NY
Date Reviewed: September 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After 2 seasons of toying with the idea of buying a FS bike Klien's '97 factory clearance prices (35% off) finally made my mind up to buy this bike. I did a lot of research and test rode several FS bikes. No one FS bike is the perfect bike. All have draw backs, ie: Trek, Gary Fisher, Litespeed all have peddle induced bouncing (why do you think they give you rear shock dampening lever on the handle bars)....Specialized are too heavy for x-country at over 28.5 lbs (I put one on the meat hook), Cannondale is still trying to get their act together for x-country. I can go on and on but the Klein Mantra Race seems to have the least amount of negatives. In the saddle it is a magic carpet ride gliding over rocks, branches and bumps....out of the saddle while accelerating hard on the peddles it reponds like a hardtail. The bike handles much better than my old Specialized Stumpjumper and climbs silghtly better since I can now stay in the saddle and get better rear tire traction. The only negative I have found is that the bike doesn't allow me get enough riding time since I am constantly being stopped by fellow riders to look and talk about my bike. The bike sure looks great and rides the same. Five chili peppers for this sweet ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a cross-country rider
from Washington, DC
Date Reviewed: August 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned the Race for about a week now. Took two rides to get used to but the more I ride it the better it gets. Bike climbs better than My Diamondback hardtail. Withe the high botttom bracket, I feel it is also better in technical stuff. I upgraded the rear derailer and shifters To ESP 9.0 and wheels the White Industry Hubs with Mavic 217. I think the bike might weigh under 25 pounds. this is the fourth mountain bike I have owned and it is by far the best bike I have owned. the people at Klein really know how to make a bike | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a cross-country rider
from Seattle, WA. USA
Date Reviewed: August 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is incredible. It climbs as well as my '91 Bridgestone MB-2
hardtail, yet is so smooth over roots, ruts, and rocks. The only upgrade
I made wast to Time pedals which is just personal prefrence. My only complaint is that whoever put the rim strips on didn't get them
on straight, and I blew two tubes before I realized what was going on.Oh, it is a little harder to wash down.....Only 150 miles and 1 XC race so far, but this bike is sweet.-Nick | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JC
a cross-country rider
from Upland, CA
Date Reviewed: August 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Good bike it was on my list of bikes. But I went with the Fisher Joshua Z1 more bike for the money compared to the Mantra. The fisher fit better I felt like I was sitting in it instead of riding on it but thats for another review. The mantra is idea for X country climbs well and great in technical situations but not a down hill bike at top speeds it kind of gets away from you and when you brake the suspension is locked out. Good design if it was priced better I would own one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pep
a weekend warrior
from Chicago,IL
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just purchased this bike and put about 50 miles on so far. This bike is gorgeous, it turns alot of heads. I fell in love with it the first time I saw it. So far this bike is flawless. I'll give you a complete review when I put more miles on it.
I just put Ceramic Spins on the bike. Looks great but weighs a ton. Stick with stock wheels or upgrade to Mavics. Go with Spins if you want to look cool, I see
no performance benefit. I want to purchase a new crank and bb, does anyone know what size I need ? Please email me.
Four stars now, more or less after many more miles.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a racer
from UK
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had the Klein Race for a couple of weeks now and my appraisa of the bike just gets better. The only extra the bike needed was a set of bar ends which suit my uphill riding style, and a lizard skin on the rear shock to keep the crap out. This bike just loves to be thrashed, downhill it flies and uphill its a dream, the suspension allows you to take lines strewn with loose rocks and rubble that usually you would avoid so when racing you can overtake where its not expected. The only problem I have encountered is the rising back end when you use the front brake, I am quite a light rider and so have only 100lbs in the rear shock so when the front brake is applied the weight is taken off the back wheel and the shock decompresses. The answer I have found is to apply the rear brake slightly before the front. Any suggestions on suspension set-up would be appreciated.
Overall this is one hell of a bike, excellent handling, good weight, as rigid as my team marin and with some good componentry which I will only upgrade as it wears out. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gadi
a cross-country rider
from Tel Aviv, ISRAEL
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Fellow Riders,After examining almost all front and full suspension bikes I've recently bought the Klein Mantra Race.
I upgraded the Tires to Michelin wild gripper lite, the saddle to Serfas Pro, integrated rapidfire shifters + XT break levers.
The bike is just great, climes excellent, very fast, very accurate. I very much like the frame size (medium).
For more details - send e-mail.Sincerely,
Gadi Bareli | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Spartan Doug
a cross-country rider
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: July 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased the Mantra Race frameset. I was lucky enough to find a shop willing to sell the frameset only. For reference sake I built it up with a Bomber Z2 along with a mix of XT, XTR, Sachs and Avid. The bike weighs somwhere aroung 26 lbs but I'm 200 lbs so I'm not a real weight fanatic. I am however a performance fanatic, and this machine does. I was coming off my Yeti Fro cro-mo which was a great hardtail. I test rode several bikes, GT LTS, Cannonbarrel, Schwinn, IBIS Szazbo, Specialized FSR, Outland VPP, even the Y bikes. What I determined for myself was that I hated pedal induced bobbing and didn't want the maintenence of multiple pivots. Nor did I like a flexy ride, I am simply a cross country rider and occasional racer that wanted more in the saddle comfort and a little give when standing. So the URT style was for me. It came down to the Klein and Ibis Szazbo (the outland was damn nice though). I went with the Klein and couldn't be happier. The ALPS 5r shock is smooth and great for a big rider, the frameset has great power transfer characteristics in and out of the saddle, it has nice precise steering also. I've had it off road for 100 miles or so already and am getting the shock dialed in great now and the bomber is the perfect match up front. As you can tell I really like this bike at this point.Negatives/Tips when buying1. The welds are not quite as clean as previous Kleins, not that they are bad compared to most companies, I attribute this to the increased production and the likelyhood of newer welders working on the Kleins now. The Mantras are made in the Washington factory however.2. You can only use the newer style shimano f. Der's as this point due to the shocks location.3. You need to be careful when cutting cable housing lengths, particularly for the rear der.4. A lot of crap is thrown up under the boom tube onto cables, use Gore cables or a cheaper solution to cover up the cables if possible (e-mail me for tips)5. The damn color choices - Yellow on the comp and Retro 80's neon orange on the race!( at least the rear ends are black now)6. Use an aluminum rear der. pivot bolt in case you munch on a rock or tree.7. Remember this is a URT it helps on the downhills when standing, but not like a fully active would.Overall a great bike, as always test ride as many bikes as you can. If you decide on a URT the Klein is outstanding, and if you purchase it you won't be disapointed! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roni Michel
a cross-country rider
from Laguna Beach, CA
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the most awesome machine I've owned in the past few years. After a few weeks of thriving on the mantra race I barely have proper words to describe how precise this bike felt from the moment I sat onit and kick on those pedals. Although I mainly hit the hills for great fitness after long days at work, I do joint some races once in while, andwith this baby I've kicked more butt than never before.
Not only this bike is an intant crowd stopper but after leaving way to many hardcore hardtailers on the dust uphill, they too can stop wondering.
At 155 pounds fora 5,7 frame (mine) the Race works like a dream with perfect measurements and perfect handling.
Uphill, push on the pedals and you got a hardtail; donwhill be prepare to fly like an eagle!
Although my riding is the battle uphill and a very relax downhill (hey! I love my body in one piece) I cannot avoid to go down faster than never before, with cornering and handling that leave miles behind my former GT's, Gary Fisher and Proflex.
True the choice of components is somewhat uneven, but I think Klein hit the jackpot with this one; nothing to change or upgrade... just ride hard....... and with the deal I've got at my LBS can't go wrong..... so don't wait and got get yourself one.
By the way if anyone is interested in a great deal in 96 Proflex Animal e-mail me at ElCapitant@compuserve.com. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a cross-country rider
from Salt Lake City
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I too love the ride of this bike, a truely awesome handling dual suspension bike. I have been riding a dually for two years and love it. I bought into the Y hype when they first came out and am happy with it, but technology and design leave any bike behind in no time. It is very important to take your time and not be a lemming jumping off the cliff with everyone else. As I have looked at new bikes and thought of trading mine in (it is like buying a used car these days) I QUESITION THE LIST WEIGHT OF THE RACE. When I lifted one up on the scale of my LBS it was at least a pound over the reported 25.9, which is a nice way of saying 26lbs. So before you buy you might want to check out the facts for yourself. My LBS might have played with some componentry in order to make more money. So check it out and when you throw a leg over a bike and you hear that voice in your head saying you cannot live without this bike, BUY the damn thing. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bram Dally
a
from Puyallup, Washington
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I now have 720 sigle track miles on a xtr, judy sl equiped Mantra Race. After 11 years of mountain biking i can only report that this bike is by far the best I've seen. I think Klein is a couple of years ahead of the competition on full suspension. As for the changing distance and angle from the cranks to the seat, I do not know of anyone who has reported this to be noticible after the first ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from racer
Date Reviewed: May 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Sweet bike. Plush ride and takes the bumps well. Blows away Trek, Cannondale and all of the other dualies in the same range. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kirk
a cross-country rider
from Irvine
Date Reviewed: May 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After having the Race for 2 weeks, I can only say I love this bike. I don't understand the choice of components. XT brakes and pods, but LX levers? Fox 5R shock and a LX front derail.? My LBS changed the levers to XTR at no charge. I changed the front derail to a XT.I thought I would feel the suspensions benefits on the down hills. I do, but the real benefit are clear while climbing. Over rocks, bumps, and crossing ruts the bike is plush and tracks straight. You can actually talk while climbing a rock covered trail. The ride IS different than a hardtail. It is easier for me to climb a loose hill with the hardtail, but the ride is so much better than the hardtail.I weighted the bike at the LBS @26LB,6OZ. for a Large.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl
a racer
from Lusby, MD
Date Reviewed: April 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After reading Jeff's review under the Mantra Pro heading I figured I'd weigh in with a couple comments:I almost bought this bike (the Race, not the Comp or Pro)...ALMOST. Two things ended up changing my mind.1) After riding many URT and swingarm designs I downselected to one of each that I felt represented the best there was for my riding style: the Mantra Race and a Santa Cruz Tazmon (see review elsewhere). I decided that the ever-changing saddle height of the URT Mantra was just a little more annoying than the pogo-ing of the swingarm Tazmon.2) Price. At the time I was looking for a duallie I was really only interested in buying a frameset. Be warned, people: Klein's fuselage (frame) engineering is incredible, top notch, but that kind of stuff costs biiig money. That is why a $2500 Mantra Race has LX/XT (XT V's and derailleurs, LX everywhere else) and an Indy C instead of the full XT (or better) groupos you'll find on other duallies in this price range. I was quoted ~$1800 for a Mantra Race frame w/rear shock, and I think this wasn't too inflated either, given that the Pro version goes $2500 for frameset only. By contrast, I got a full XT plus aftermarket (Judy SL, White cranks and hubs, Avid levers, KORE Elite stem, RideOn cables) Tazmon for less than $300 more than the Mantra _frame_ would've cost me. Same bare frame weight too. A no-brainer.Don't get me wrong, I'm not dissing Klein: I work as an engineer and am thoroughly impressed by his work. And I'll tell you that highly engineered frames legitimately command higher prices. They _should_. It just means you're going to face some tradeoffs in componentry at a given price point.BTW, Jeff, I don't know if you were going only on verbal info or what, but my up close and in person inspection of both the photos and the bikes says that the Comp and Race fuselages are NOT one and the same. Each level of frameset represents a higher level of tube tweaking as you move up the line and you can tell just by trying to compare dimensions for the same size Comp and Race. They're different.Finally, I want give voice to an observation that I admit is based only on 4 races in two states: I have yet to see a Klein Mantra of ANY trim line at one of these events. I've had the only Tazmon there, but then there aren't nearly as many retail shops which carry Santa Cruz as compared to Klein, so I'm not surprised to be the odd man out.But it doesn't explain why no double-boing Kleins. Lots of his hardtails, no Mantras (Mantrae? Mantra? what the hell is the plural here :) ?). And the local shops have them in stock, so availability isn't an issue (except for the Pro, which is backordered thru like 1999).Go figure...Nice bikes, awfully spendy frames. 4 peppers. | | Overall Rating: |
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