Submitted by
wasea04
a Weekend Warrior
from stg ut usa Date Reviewed: August 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
dv bh ama
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1050.00
Purchased At:
classifieds
Strengths:
very strong, aesthetic, high quality, tons of travel, geo (with the sag run correctly this bike has race angles), handling in the tech especially, floating brake, makes you feel like you're awesome!
Weaknesses:
The rear shock is tough to get at through the linkage, but the linkage is what makes it ride so well, so nothing really.
Similar Products Used:
Nicolai Helius ST, SC Bullit, tons of other AM bikes
Bike Setup:
888 RC 203mm, Sun Ringle hubs and rims, Holzefeller Cranks, Hayes Brakes 203mm, Progressive 5th Element Rear Shock, E13 Bashguard, and Guide.
Bottom Line:
The bike is beautifully crafted, the welds are gorgeous, and the huge monocoque frame is practically artwork and truly unique......people will definitely ask about your bike. Nimble and quick in the rough stuff and actually pedals ok when you stand up and cranks, loves rock gardens and roots, manuals well making it easy to jump and drop. The rear suspension is great in the rough and corners due to the floating brake, which is very solid and well thought out. The bike just exudes strength and durability which gives the rider the peace of mind to let it rip! This is the most underrated dh bike out there, ride one and learn for yourself!
I'll update in a few months.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mattscott
a Downhiller
from Holliston, Ma, US Date Reviewed: August 12, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Vietnam
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Mountain Cycle
Strengths:
One of the beefiest frames i've ever seen. Every part on the bike is extra reinforced. This bike is awesome for DH. I have the new Shockwave so its 8" of travel but it rides so smooth. It eats the bumps and I don't have to worry about breaking the frame and I'm a hard rider.
Weaknesses:
There arent many weaknesses other than because of the thickness of everything makes the frame heavy, but id rather that then a skinny brittle frame. Also a lot some of the pivot bolts come loose so every so often you need to tighten them but thats just standard maintenance. Lastly, Make sure you leave the fork stop on because i had a bad fall in a race and didn't have it on and the fork, even with rubber stops on the stantions put a dent in the frame. Even with that dent, the frames still wider than most bikes lol
This bike is great for racers and huckers, especially if your going to be rough on the bike. The frame will withstand anything you trow at it. The frame design is killer and looks awesome. The swingarm is as big as they come. Everything is to perfection. Geometrically this bike is perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MuSkA
a Downhiller
from Portugal Date Reviewed: May 22, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Caldelas
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Lots of travel, works perfectly, original looks, floating brake kit, light downhill frame......
Weaknesses:
None so far. Just perfect
Similar Products Used:
Spec Demo, Giant Glory DH, Spec Big Hit 2008, Trek Session 88, Transition Gran Mal...
Bike Setup:
2009 Boxxer, 2008 Fox DHX5, Sun Rims MTX29, Hayes Nine V8 200mm rotors, Truvativ Ruktion cranks, 50-50 flats, Continental and Maxxis Highroller, Sunline integrated stem, Truvativ Hussefelt WC bar...
Bottom Line:
This frame is just perfect for Downhill.
Lots of travel, looks like it never ends, super plush, works perfect with the DHX5 and the Boxxer, super light Downhill rig overall (mine´s 17.3kg), pedals very well for this kind of travel beast and it looks WOW!!
The Downhill racer #1 choice, works perfect against the clock!
The Bottom line is: buy it if you see one for sale.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BIGHIT8989
a Downhiller
from Walnut Creek, California Date Reviewed: August 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Crack to Mile to Boyscout
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
strait up trade bike
Strengths:
This bike is amazing at high speeds, it can plow through anything and still has the subtle touch to smooth out the little things. When standing alone it does have a some what high BB but when sitting on it, the sag drops the bb to about 13 inches which is pretty damn low. Bike Corners like a dream One of the best cornering bike i have ever ridden. A real point and shoot bike.Real easy to handle and in the control of some one with some real skill its an absolute blast to ride
Weaknesses:
Sound.... monocok....... haha
Similar Products Used:
Orange 224, Turner DHR, SWD
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Boxxer race, garage works 5th element, Mavic 321 rims laced to Hope bulb hubs, Holzfeller cranks and gigapipe ti bb, Funn full on handle bar, Point one thomspon stem.
Bottom Line:
a fun a hell bike to ride, I have a feeling i willl be riding this bike for a LONG time
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sockwave95
a Downhiller
from Chicoutimi, Québec,Canada Date Reviewed: July 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Bromont, Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Mountain Cycle
Strengths:
Super stiff and strong, great rear suspension, stable at speed end easy to turn in thight spot. It looks great and attrack looks because that they are rare where I am from.
Weaknesses:
The floating brake did not work as good as expected but is easy to fix. BB might be too high for some and could be a litle more slack for DH racing but it is all good on the 09 model
Similar Products Used:
Norco VPS 1 and team, Santa cruz super 8, Intense M1, Giant Comp, Devinci Wilson.
Bike Setup:
06 frame with fox DHX 5 with RCS TI spring, Boxxer world cup, Juicy 7 brake with Goodridge hose, X9 short cage and X9 shifter, e 13 LG1 chain gide, SDG I beam post and sadle, Easton monkey lite DH handle bar, E 13 ali steam, Intinse grip, Ringlé hub with Mavic 823 tubles rims, Holzfeller OCT crank, DMR flat pedal.
Bottom Line:
This is one of the best bikes that I ever ridden and it is so fun to ride on. It is super plush and progressive and the end of its travel. I just can’t say enough about the rear suspension. It is easy to play with it in the air or on the ground and just plow trough anything like it was a rocket. It is very stable at high speed run. The frame is extremely stiff and there is no flex at all. It loves speed and steep trail. The price was very good at the time of purchase. Mine is setup about 41 lbs and could be a little lighter but I don’t want to run lighter wheels and I want to keep the brake floater on the bike.
My only concern is the floating disk brake that did not work as good as other bike I had but it was a very simple fix. Now my floater works at 100% and my rear end is stuck to the ground. With the stock set up, the floater does not work right a way and you may experience a little brake jacking. All I did is relocated the front rode higher on the bracket above the 3 holes and use some shim so that it does not contact the rear linkage. This simple change makes the floater work all the 100% of the time. The other thing is that for some, the BB height is a bit high and the HA not slack enough, this was all address in 09 as you can get it with 8 inch of travel with a lower BB and slacker HA. I recommend this bike to any body that wants a solid and fun bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nickgto
a Downhiller
from Granada Hills, CA Date Reviewed: June 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
G-Spot / Suicide / Stagecoach
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Private Party
Strengths:
It looks like a DH bike on steroids that makes my friends V10's look like toothpicks! It exudes a certain exoticness due to it's rarity and full monocoque construction. The frame looks extremly overbuilt with thick monocoque skin while the linkages are forged and cnc'd. It comes equipped with a leverage ratio manipulating link that ramps up the feel as it moves through it's travel that is why it can be tuned for supple small bump compliance and has enough progression for the big hits. It's also equipped with a floating brake the aids alot during high speed braking.
This monster loves plowing thru the gnarliest lines with speed as it has the geometry needed for extreme DH runs.
Weaknesses:
The rider is normally the weak link. I've never had problems with the bearings cuz it rarely gets wet her in SOCAL.
Similar Products Used:
SC V10's & VP FRee, Spec. Demo, RM RMX, IH 7point, MC Sin & DNA
Bike Setup:
'04 Black / Pewter frame, '04 Zoke 888R WORKS fork, retuned Romic D Shock, Magura Gustav Brakes, Azonic Rims, Zoke QR20mm hub, DT Swiss Hugi FR 12x135 hubs, DT Champion spokes, Maxxis Minion DHF/High Roller 2.7 Super Tacky, Intense DH tubes, Truvativ Holzfeller 34T, Evil SRS chainguide, Shimano XT Shifter & rear Der., Shimano Dura Ace 11-26 cassette, Shimano XTR Chain, Azonic A Frame pedals, Truvativ XR Double seatpost, Azonic high rise x 28 inch handlebar, ODI Ruffian Grips, SDG Gravity saddle.
Bottom Line:
This is my ULTIMATE WEAPON and the big daddy of my Mountain Cycle stable (Sin & San Andreas DNA). It floats over the crazziest lines and it gives you the extra confidence of hunting for more tech. stuff. It works best when it's steep and gnarly. It corners nice but I tuned it more for the steeps.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Monkey Boy
a Downhiller
from Auckland, New Zealand Date Reviewed: November 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Taniwha Track
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Adrenaline Bikes
Strengths:
What can I say, 1 year of absolute abuse and it handles like a champ. Rock solid, high stand over, corners like it's on rails, accelerates like a couger on crack and hucks absolutely anything. Better looking and with nicer curves than the entire Miss America pagent with extra style points coz there's not too many of them around! Seat and standover height can be left really hight - much higher than other DH rigs) and still ride it like there's no seat at all, super nimble and responsive for a bike of its size and weight. Can't fault it.
Weaknesses:
As a few people have said, the bearings tend not to last. I've had mine a year and a half and the main swingarm bearings have just given up. Apart from that, it's faultless.
You can't go past it. This bike is the be all and end all. It's so damn sexy and rides like an absolute dream. Super aggressive but amazingly forgiving. People bag it coz they know they're not cool enough. Once you ride one or sit on it, everything else just feels like junk. So solid and burly it will eat anything you throw at it, anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marco van der Wilk
a Racer
from Vernon, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: October 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Mystery
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
This is a update from my last review. I beat the snot out of this frame all of this season racing and freeriding and have not had one problem with the frame yet.
Weaknesses:
Still the only real weakness is the bearings (as on most bikes). I've tried many different bearings companies and they still don't last. The seals on the bearings are one of the main problems, water still gets in. The stock floating brake also does'nt work as good as it could. I made a different one that works much better through the whole travel.
Similar Products Used:
The list would be too big, but a few are Giant, Divinci, Kona, Rocky, and on and on......
Bike Setup:
I got my race bike sitting a little under 36.5lbs. And the freerider around 42lbs. Hope Brakes, White Brother forks Groove Race,Groove200, Shimano Shifting, etc...
Bottom Line:
This bike is amazing. I have'nt ridden anything that comes close to it. MC has something good here and it just needs too be noticed. Ride one you won't be a changed person....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad Reece
a Downhiller
from Mission Viejo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
A-Line!!!
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
All of the strengths from my previous review still stand, however, I must say the bike is even better with the changes I have made. With those changes, the weight of the bike is also a strength. This machine can be made very light with the right kit.
Weaknesses:
It's still a little noisy when it gets "dry", but that's not a biggy. I thought the weight was a weakness before, but now it is not.
Similar Products Used:
San Andreas (classic and DNA), Giant Team DH, Iron Horse (SGS and Sunday), Azonic Eliminator, Foes DHS Tube, Turner DHR, Intense M3, Kona Stinky 9, GT IT1 (read my review on that)
Bike Setup:
Large Frame (custom powder coated in pearl white), Fox 40RC2, Fox DHX Air (9.5x3.0), SRAM X0 Black Box R. Der. and shifter pod (Gucci!), Truvativ Holzfeller Cranks (38t), MRP System 3 Fusion Guide, SRAM Road Cassette, SRAM Chain, Hayes Mag 9, Goodridge Brake Lines, Flak Jacket Cable Housing, Easton Carbon DH Bars, Azonic Stem, Intense Mag 30 Wheels (soon to be Urban Camo SingleTracks) on Hadley Hubs, SDG Stem and Saddle, Kenda Nevegal 2.35 (fr. & rr.)
Bottom Line:
This bike could not be more perfect [in my opinion].
I saw pictures of the SL from Interbike 2005 and that gave me the idea for the air shock. I used to run an MRP Bones crankset and that thing was so damn heavy (I just didn't realize). Those two changes alone had dramatic effects on the weight. When the changes in componentry and the fork are factored in, the bike is a radical departure from the previous build that I once had in terms of agility and quickness. I can flick the thing around and pedal it like crazy.
I am extremely pleased with the performance thus far, but I am looking to make a few more mods: Ti hardware, lighter hoops (the Singles vs. the Mag 30), and perhaps upgraded bearings. Also, I have been running the Slime tubes so I think I can run a lighter tire (single ply, non-dh casing...the jury's out on that one though).
If you already have one of these machines, then you are probably already stoked, but do bear in mind that you can make tremendous changes that can really transform its performance characteristics (for example you may try a shorter stroke shock if your style has become more smooth over time).
If you are considering one of these, then my previous review stands in addition to this one. Place an order at Adrenaline Bikes (Mountain Cycle is NOT dead and looks to be coming back stronger than ever).
Note: The $5000 takes into account the additional investments I made since I first purchased the bike (at $2500).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirt Merchant
a Downhiller
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: October 24, 2006
Romic shock, Super T fork, Hayes, Sun rims, Saint cranks, eThirteen guide, XT drivetrain, floating rear brake upgrade
Bottom Line:
Excellent value, bombproof design and build, great handling for DH and freeride. Definitely get the floating rear brake kit. Romic shock also goes great with this frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
T Diddy
a Downhiller
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: July 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
VeGUS
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Adrenaline Bikes
Strengths:
Looks HOT! Best looking bike out there in that product group, it's insane.
Weaknesses:
Haven't discovered any yet, don't expect to!
Similar Products Used:
Stinky Dee
Bike Setup:
Boxxer World Cups, SRAM, 5th element, RaceFace
Bottom Line:
Super sick bike, haven't stopped smiling since I pulled it outta the box, can't go wrong... buy one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marco
a Downhiller
from Vernon BC Canada Date Reviewed: January 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any trail that goes down
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Super Strong, Takes any thing you can throw at it from high speed stuff to large drops etc.
Weaknesses:
First thing is the bloody Progressive 5th element shock, what a peice of junk it is. Also the stock type bearings (KAKO Bearings) on this frame don't last very long at all,I've replaced mine 3 times now. The floating rear brake needs to be redesigned: - The floater does'nt work as good like some other out there. - The floater linkrod needs to go on top of the swinger not below. Take a look at the new Haro DH at Interbike I think.
Similar Products Used:
Lots of Mountain cycles and tons of other brands that don't even compare.
Bike Setup:
White Brothers dh 2.0 and dh3, Raceface cranks bb headset,Crank bros Mallets pedals, Sun Ringle Rhino lites MTX's and Mag 30s Wheelsets, Thompson post,Shimano xt, custom made stem,other parts, modified hayes brakes from Pure Adrenalin Industries Racing
Bottom Line:
The frame is wicked, strong and stiff but don't get it with the 5th element shock, there is better shocks out there for the same price. Put some really good Bearings in, not that Taiwan stuff check at a Bearing shop for some NTN's Or SKF's or even if they got some thing better.
Mountain Cycle does know about these things and there is talk that there might be some changes. I am meeting with them and seeing what inprovements we can come up with to make it even better.
As for the bike I love it. It is the first bike I havent destroyed yet.
Bottom line: If you not riding one, you better get one for your next bike!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan Riddle
a Downhiller
from Ashland OR USA Date Reviewed: January 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
lump o' coal
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Super strong, stiff, plush, dialed frame, makes for rail-like cornering and the most neutral feeling bike I've ever ridden for big gaps with weird take-offs and landings. Pedals Amazing!!! Hit Anything at any speed and it shrugs! Great price. Did I mention that it pedals as if there were a 50cc motor tucked away in that frame! Trouble free single pivot design.
Weaknesses:
Nothing really.....maybe a little loud like all monocoque frames.
Similar Products Used:
GT DHi, Santa Cruz Super Eight, Intense M-1
Bike Setup:
888RCw/flat crown(Huge improvement in handling over standard crown(not a problem for the '06 models)), %th element coil, Thomson stem/post, Holzfellers w/E-13, XO rear der/shifter,ODI lock-ons, Arrow DHX rims W/Arrow double beadlock tires & Stan's no-tubes(best set-up I've ever used), Shimano Deore M525 Hyraulic w/avid 8" rotors(best brakes ever even though they're fairly cheap)
Bottom Line:
If you want to race... buy this bike. If you want to "go big" buy this bike. If you don't want to replace pivots every other month buy this bike. You can set it up for anything; it's got the travel & stiffness to take the biggest weirdest lines, and it's got the pedaling efficiency to let you sprint off the start gate. My style is mostly staying (trying to) low & fluid & most of the stuff I hit is about the size of the drops, gaps, & jumps you'll find on any good DH racecourse. I haven't even tapped into what this bike can do yet. Now I find myself looking at totally different, bigger, lines. The 9.5 likes to jump!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: November 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Fifth Horseman
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
private sale
Strengths:
Ultra plush suspension. Nimble handling for a big bike. Good standover clearance. Very solid feeling bike. It looks so good you can't avoid smiling while riding it.
Weaknesses:
Not a good choice for a 24 hour race or a local cyclocross event;)A bit more expensive than a Norco. A bit heavier than an Orange.
Similar Products Used:
CR 250? But seriously, last bike was a 2002 Bullit, which is a fine machine but totally different from this. Like comparing a Bronco to a Range Rover.
Bike Setup:
888R's (unreal!) Saint (ditto) Michelins (you know)Fifth Element, Diabolous post, lock on grips....all the good stuff. Middle age has it's rewards. And you'll need all the help you can buy.
Bottom Line:
Amazing combination of big travel and nimble handling. High bottom bracket/low center of gravity seems to keep it moving over flat root filled sections, which I always found more difficult than the steep stuff. Point it down steep ugly terrain and let it do it's job. This thing eats it up. It's almost too simple. You really notice that the suspension "ramps up" at the end of the stroke, so you can run it with a good amount of sag with no fear of bottoming. I cannot say that this is the best North Shore bike in the world, just the best one I have personally ridden. I'll re-post when I have more to add.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Downhiller
from Killington Vermont Date Reviewed: October 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Killington
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The bike is a beast. It goes anywhere. W/ the floating break it cant be beat. rides like moto... SOLID .. replaceable dropouts - fork stop -
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Foes DHS mono, Balfa bb7, Kona stab Deluxe, Iron Horse sgs, azonic eliminator, V10
Bike Setup:
9.5 , scram xtr, super monster, raceface e13 - THE BEAST
Bottom Line:
Dont listen to that monkey who listed no flaming things.. this Bike is fantastic. You can set it up for quick dh racing , or hucking... its built with care and you can tell... Once you sit or see or ride the bike you know its solid and fast and sturdy and wont let you down. its a monster. do yourself a favor and get one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob boblet
a Cross Country Rider
from sydney Date Reviewed: October 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
the nob chopper
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$6000.00
Purchased At:
bob cycles
Strengths:
none this bike is an absolute joke i cant belive people buy it
Weaknesses:
frame it look like a fat thing and it tracks like a hardtail
a poor quality bike at a stupid price never buy this ever i prefer to ride a y frame
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad Reece
a Downhiller
from Laguna Hills Date Reviewed: August 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
The last one I rode
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
The looks - very exotic, turns a lot of heads. Reactive Link System - the suspension is fantastic. I was truly surprised at how well this bike pedals, especially when compared to my Giant Team DH which is known for its efficiency. Agility - In spite of its apparent burliness, this guy handles incredibly well. The shape of the frame works well when setting up steep lean angles on the race course. Stability - In spite of its agility, it does not give up much on the stability. This bike handles very well at high speeds, especially on the really rough stuff (rock gardens, roots, etc.). This bike feels great in the air, too. Floating brake option - looks killer and performs even better. Baby smooth feathering into the corners that allows you to come in really hot and drag a little bit without losing too much speed and traction. Robustness - This is a Mountain Cycle, man (or woman)! You can't break these things.
Weaknesses:
Noise - the monocoque frame is hollow and tends to reverberate a lot if things are loose or dry (okay, tighten $hit down and make sure it's lubed). Weight - It's a little heavy, but that might actually play into why the bike is so stable at speed (so don't change it).
Similar Products Used:
San Andreas, Giant Team DH, Iron Horse (SGS and Sunday), Azonic Eliminator, Foes DHS Tube, Turner DHR...
Bike Setup:
Floating brake option, Manitou Sherman Slider in camo (switched from 888RC with flat crowns), MRP Bones, Shimano SPDs, Intense Mag 30 (now Bombshells), Duraace road mech, SRAM shifty, Diabolus stem and bars, Selle Italia road saddle, Grimeca brakes, Titec seat post, and so on...
Bottom Line:
This is a fantastic racing bike.
Just look at these reviews. You will not find a better DH bike for the money. It won't happen. This bike also got a "9.5" in Mountain Bike Action.
Mountain Cycle wasn't lying when they said this thing will get you on the podium. I did really well this season on this bike. I switched back to my Giant DH Team (that I modified to be very light) and I have not been on the podium since (bummer). So it's back to the Shocker and more victories.
For what it's worth, I find this bike really suits my build and riding style. I am pretty tall at 6'4" and I find that the large offers the perfect cockpit. I favor strong pedalling and smooth handling to being crazy-aggro and this bike plays very well into that style for me.
Finally, I found the original set up (with the 888RC) to be a bit tall (more of a free-ride stance) so I got flat crowns. This lowered the front end a little, but I still found it to be a bit front heavy and sluggish. I have since switched to the Slider and the bike feels so much better (more race oriented). The combination of SPV and good tuning makes for an extremely efficient ride. Coupled with the reduced weight and lowered stance makes for a very nimble racing bike that can still take on the gnarly stuff.
Okay, go place your order now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Parker
a Downhiller
from Portland, OR, USA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Blackrock, Falls city
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Confidence inspiring, unbreakable, blasts through rock gardens yet also pedals and accelerates phenomenally, made in USA by people who ride, yet still priced lower than many Taiwan frames. I think it's the best looking bike too.
Weaknesses:
?
Similar Products Used:
Sin, San Andreas
Bike Setup:
MC '02 proto 9point5 frame with Fox DHX 5.0 and 450 lb spring, floating brake kit Marzocchi 66RC170 fork, Truvativ bars, stem, and cranks, MRP chainguide, Sun doubletrack wheels, Hayes mag 8" brakes, WTB timberwolf dna 2.5 tires, momentum headset, Race Face Diabolus seat post, Titec berzerkr seat, ODI ruffian loc-on grips, Shimano XT shifter, chain, cassette, XTR rear derailleur, Diamondback $15 platform pedals (work awesome)
Bottom Line:
I've been trying to break this frame since Sept. '02. Coming from a motocross background, this frame takes the hardest stuff I can throw at it and comes back for more. If Mountain Cycle had a bigger budget and could get these bikes under some top racers, everyone would realize what a spectacular bike this is.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ilari Koivusalo
a Downhiller
from Salo, Finland Date Reviewed: August 22, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Local dealer: ET-sports
Strengths:
Very stiff, good to handle, verrrry active single pivot, takes big hits like nothing, fast to ride and good to accelerate - really! Good looking frame... I can continue this to the eternity. Once you try - you have to buy. Ooouuu... I almost forget, very own forkstopper is really good thing!
Weaknesses:
HA... good joke!
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, Iron Horse SGS WC, Cannondale Gemini DH,
Bike Setup:
Manitou swinger 6way, WB DH 2.0 fork, XT DH discbrakes, Hope Bulb hubs, Sun MAG rims, SRAM gears/XT deraullier, Truvativ cranks/BB/chainguide Crankbrothers Mallet C pedals, On one reetard stem/handlebar, Thompson seatpost, Azonic hotseat/loveseat.
Bottom Line:
Bike rides higher than Santa Cruzes, Geminis, Oranges, Iron Horse ect. But it also has bigger ground clearance, so it is harder to hit the groud on rough terrain and jumps or drops. In DH it is very nice to handle, it goes like train but on corners it turns without any pushing. Accelerating is also awesome, you could think bike with 240mm travel won´t move anywere when it gets slow or stops, but your wrong !?! This thing moves and fast - really. I only wonder why these kind of bikes won´t be on Red Bull Rampage and DH World Cup.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from North Vancouver, B.C , Canada Date Reviewed: June 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Air Supply
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
used from some guy
Strengths:
Super strong, bighit bike!
Weaknesses:
Heavy
Similar Products Used:
Kona Stinky dee-lux and Kona Roast
Bike Setup:
2004 888R, 5th element rear shock, and all saint components
Bottom Line:
Sweet bike! Surprisingly easy to dirt jump with. Eats all the rough terrain and can absorb any drop with ease! I live in vancouver so it is a little hard biking up the hill but its worth it. This bike is awsome!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fox-ranger
a Downhiller
from swiss Date Reviewed: June 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
wiriehorn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1690.00
Purchased At:
adrenalinebikes
Strengths:
Verry stiff, turns good, efizient pedal out of corners
shockwave 9.5, hayes, super t's, raceface, doublewides, abbah's, and arrows
Bottom Line:
this bike rocks so much!!! Its everything i could have hoped for in a downhill bike. ROCK ON MOUNTAIN CYCLE AND KEEP MAKING KICK-@SS BIKS!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
antonio joder
a Downhiller
from switzerland Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
le gets
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1730.00
Purchased At:
Adreneline bikes
Strengths:
ride like MX, best look,verry stiff evizient pedaling, the 9point5 its a hit!!!
Weaknesses:
on the verry big jumps you feel the pedal stroke a litle.
Similar Products Used:
??? not find
Bike Setup:
mc 9point5, 888R, avid7, answer, sdg, mavic, sram, thomson, truvativ, maxxis, time
Bottom Line:
after 3mt. hard downhilling and jumping i am find no bad things. verry fast this rig top cornering machine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad Miller
a Downhiller
from Duluth,Minnesota Date Reviewed: March 27, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Adreneline bikes
Strengths:
This bike simply rips down the hill and sucks up everything you point it at. Yet with the 5th element you can hammer and accellerate like a bat out of hell!! Absolutely one of the stiffest, toughest,and personally the best lookingdh frame out there. As good as any Foes,Intense,Turner,Santa cruz dh frame out there but costs alot less. Adrenaline bike outta socal hooked it up, and I got my dream frame for 1200buck now thats awsome. Mountain Cycle RULES!!!!!!!!!
its the best Dh Machine on Planet.by sure you hafe the floating brake!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
casey hinkey
a Racer
from roseville, ca, usa Date Reviewed: December 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Blow Hard, in Brianhead Utah
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1899.00
Strengths:
#1 - Excellent pedaling. This bike sprints like a BMX bike. #2 - Very stiff frame makes for cornering stability, especially in the rough. Definitely the stiffest frame I have ridden. #3 - 9.5" of travel = ability to pedal through rock gardens! CONFIDENCE INSPIRING. There are other frames that can equally soak up the bumps, but they do not pedal anywhere near the Mountain Cycle. I am stoked I got one!
Weaknesses:
I do not have the floating rear brake kit yet, so there is some chatter when braking over high-speed stutter bumps.
Marzocchi 888 up front, huge 5th element rear shock, Maxxis Minions to hook it up.
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike if you are looking for a solid DH bike that will soak up the burliest of impacts yet still pedals well. Check the price - it is a great value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy Schaab
a Downhiller
from Toronto Date Reviewed: September 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Whistler National DH Course
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Trail Blazer Cycles
Strengths:
Plush and efficient suspension. Beautiful welds and CNC work. Sexy curves. Excellent design, you can really lean it into corners and the curved monocoque frame makes it easy to steer and contol the bike with your knees. The complete bike comes very nicely equiped at a great price. There is no frame I'd rather race or shuttle DH with.
Weaknesses:
none (but make sure you get the floating brake)
Similar Products Used:
GT DHi, BB7, Foes DHS
Bike Setup:
Boxxer, Hope DH4, Raceface cranks, Protapers, 5th Element, 521's on Hadley hubs, Michelin 2.5 Comp 16's, Mr. Dirt, XT drive
Bottom Line:
This is one of the best DH rigs on the market and it is such an amazing deal. I wold put it in the same class as the Foes DHS, Intense M3, V10, anything, but it costs a lot less. Go buy one! Check out the Rumble HT too!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Lindberg
a Downhiller
from Portland Date Reviewed: July 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
I can't choose just one...
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Super strong, stiff, efficient.
Weaknesses:
Ummm... I don't think there is one.
Similar Products Used:
Super 8, Original Shockwave
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Monster T / Truvativ holzfeller cranks, bb, chain guide, handlebars, stem / Hayes hydraulic 8" front, 6" rear / XTR shifter, derailleur, chain, cassette / Sun DoubleTrack wheelset with Tioga factory DH 2.3 rear, IRC Kujo DH 2.65 front / Giro Atlas saddle / Thomson post / ODI lock on grips
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is this bike rips. There is nothing holding you back with this machine, it's ready for anything. Pedals incredibly well, corners on rails, jumps like mad. If you're considering one of these, go for it, you won't be dissapointed!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terry Leimonis
a Downhiller
from Toronto Date Reviewed: July 4, 2004
Favorite Trail:
whistler nationals course
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Trail Blazer Cycles
Strengths:
Super Strong, Very Agile, Light, Fast
Weaknesses:
ISG tabs could be thicker
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz super 8, Intense M1
Bike Setup:
888r, hopes, stock from catologue
Bottom Line:
A super strong bike with not many things needing to be changed on it to suit your style of riding. set the suspension and ride it. If you want a bike that rides identcal to a moto rig, (trust me.) buy a 9.5 you will never regret it. The floating caliper mount works flawlessly. Also at the full retail of the bike, (about 6000 canadian so about 10 dollars US ;)) you can't get a better deal out there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Peterson
a Downhiller
from Valencia Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
a-line
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great build quality, excellent ride, hard to beat price.
Weaknesses:
Having to put air in the 5th element shock is a bit of a hassle.. But then again, this is the case with several other bikes on the market too..
Similar Products Used:
GT DHI, Cortina DH8
Bike Setup:
Romic rear shock, 888r, Hayes Brakes, floating rear brake kit.
Bottom Line:
After replacing the stock 5th Element with a Romic, my main gripe was gone. I never thought much about the brake jack, but the floating kit keeps the rear wheel stuck like glue on the brakes. Plus the machine work on the linkage looks like it is out of the Pro Circuit catalog. All in all, this has been my favorite DH bike to date.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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