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Submitted by
john
a Cross Country Rider
from SANTA CLARA
Date Reviewed: October 29, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | scaggs | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Trail head | | Strengths: | great climber | | Weaknesses: | can't say yet | | Similar Products Used: | dbr wr-8 | | Bike Setup: | marrzochi z-1, hayes disk, xtr | | Bottom Line: | this is the best bike I ever rode.I had 3 specialized and a dbr.I bought the frame for 750 and used my old parts. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary Churchill
a
from Yorba Linda, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 15, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Santa Barbara backcountry | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Super Go, Fountain Valley | | Strengths: | Great climbers for the weight. Way better than our previous
bikes. Excellent for downhill action also. | | Weaknesses: | The Hutchinson Python tires are pretty wimpy. Once they wear out, which should be soon, I'll upgrade to more aggresive and fatter tires. | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 GT I-drive 3.0's | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Both Elise and I are extremely happy with our new bikes.
It was a little more than I had hoped to pay, but considering what we ended up with, it now seems like a steal! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darrin
a Cross Country Rider
from East Bay, CA. USA
Date Reviewed: October 20, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Copelands Sports | | Strengths: | Extrodinary Climber, rides like a light weight xc bike, but burly enough to take some hits. No bob in the rear wheel(compares with the Blur and Intense Spyder with this design) and always translates to traction. Climbs like a hardtail. This is my first Rocky Mountain and I am now a big time fan (and I have owned 8 mountain bikes in the last 15 years). | | Weaknesses: | Wheelset. For a bike in this price range, a better wheelset is appropriate. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant AC!, Cannondale Raven, Tomac Titanium, Schwinn Homegrown Carbon, etc... | | Bike Setup: | factory specs, except I upgraded wheelset to Mavic Crossland Tubeless. | | Bottom Line: | Get one! I love mine, and Rocky Mountain deserves your business for making this awesome bike. You're going to want swap out the wheelset for a better set, so make sure you negotiate that in the price when buying. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Marchington
a Cross Country Rider
from White Sulphur Springs, MT USA
Date Reviewed: September 13, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | To many to list | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Owenhouse Ace Hardware | | Strengths: | Geometry. Attention to detail. Good luck scraching the paint from this frame. Does vary little bobbing, what little it does will go directly to the rear tire in the form off traction. | | Weaknesses: | Sqeeky disk brakes. Yellow paint is a little dull. Dealers in my area are just their for the money. Not for support. Hutch's tires suck. Im switching to panaracer fire xc pro's | | Similar Products Used: | Trek fuel 98. Specilized fsr, enduro. RM Slayer. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. Race face this and that. Shimano disk(nice). | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike more than my wife. Why? It does anything i ask off it, and does'nt talk back. I love blowing my buddies away while treking up steep hills. This bike cuts the bob to zero virtually. What little and i do mean little bob you do get goes to the rear tire in the form off traction. The rear shock is plush down hill. Good luck flippin the lockout switch though. You dont really need it with this bike anyway. The front Fox fork is a king in my book. It soaks up anything i throw at it with a smile. Almost as big as mine. The shimanno disks are perfectly comfortable with being nice (smoth as a babys butt). Or Ugly (stoping you so quick that you become with mother earth and the dirt). The frame is solid to the bone. Remember that bones can be broken with eccesive force. Which is why this bike is good for moderate stuff(jumping logs ext...), but not for hot (15' drops) stuff. This girl does like to play rough though. So expect tight rocks, moderate drops, fast climbs and faster decends. In your future. The tires may not be able to keep up with the bike. You may want to consider an upgrade in this area(which has caused me a few rollover's). This bike will deffinetly help the intermidiate rider with connfidence. Even some off my downhill buddys give this bike a thumbs up. That sais something since most off them laugh at us and our bikes. Theirs something to be said about ridding instead off pushing your bike up a hill !!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
peter
a Weekend Warrior
from markham, ontario, canada
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | durham forest | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2350.00 | | Purchased At: | sporting life bikes and boards | | Strengths: | This bike is very Strong. The suspension mimics F1 cars. It transfers energy in a stable smooth manner. the frame is hand built and welded. All components are high end. It has crisp steering with the fox fork up front. Craftmanship is excellent since it is handbuilt and examined before sale. | | Weaknesses: | It is slightly heavy at ~28 lbs. Many full suspension with similar components for the price may come in at 26 or 27 pounds. The strength makes up for it. | | Similar Products Used: | Hardtail Specialized stumpjumper 2002 with several modified components. | | Bike Setup: | Stock set up with new Easton Flatboy pedals. I set the rebounds in the middle, with a click or two of extra rebound so that the bike does not chatter and resonate over wierd terrain. | | Bottom Line: | This bike kicks butt! I like to ride hard and I cannot seem to break it. If you are one who likes a balance between cross country and some off road and downhill madness then this is your bike. It is capable of moderate downhilling, and you can still ride it 20 to 30 kilometers cross country without dying from exhaustion(this would happen on a 35 - 40 lb downhiller!). It soaks up roots and rocks on dowhnhills like a dream. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Albquerque
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire Cycles | | Strengths: | VPP (a.k.a Energy Transfer System) climbs perfecly. It has the reponsivness of a hard tail but, maintains traction like a quishy bike should. Adjustable travel is pimp. In the 3.5" mode it seriously acts like a hard tail. The 4" is the best all around setting. The 4.5" is good for rippin down just about anything and for light free riding. The Fox Float RL w/ lock out is cool but, I don't use it the suspension is that well tuned. Stutter bumps, skree, and mine fields don't phase this bike. Finally it simply goes wherever you won't it to...period. | | Weaknesses: | My bike wieght w/ slime is 33lbs. I think the biggest weakness is the wheelset. Shimano Deore hubs with Mavic 223x. They've got to weigh 7lbs and add the slime with some 2.3's and poof 9lbs of wheels. For the price tag I'd want something a little lighter..like Cane Creek Duros or Mavic XLs. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Deluxe 2001, Ellsworth Truth 2000 | | Bike Setup: | Fox Float 100 RL, Fox Float RL, Monkey Lite Carbon bars, Thompson Stem, XTR shifters, XTR Rear derailluer, XT front derailluer, Kenda 2.4, Kenda 2.3, XT cogs, SRAM chain,Race Face cranks,etc., etc., etc... | | Bottom Line: | Yeah I think it should be lighter for the price but, you forget about the weight and cost when your coming down the mtn.
When you have a problem with your rig be nice to your local bike shop. If they refer you to Rocky directly be even nicer to our friends up North. Basically I had a warranty issue in the middle of an eight day tour from NM to Cali, to NV, to UT. I ended up walking back to the car for 10 miles. Three phone calls and a week after my trip I had my warranty issue resolved. The kids at Rocky stand behind their products and their warranty. Thanks Rocky! Next time I'm in the market I'll be buying another Rocky. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Albquerque
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire Cycles | | Strengths: | VPP (a.k.a Energy Transfer System) climbs perfecly. It has the reponsivness of a hard tail but, maintains traction like a quishy bike should. Adjustable travel is pimp. In the 3.5" mode it seriously acts like a hard tail. The 4" is the best all around setting. The 4.5" is good for rippin down just about anything and for light free riding. The Fox Float RL w/ lock out is cool but, I don't use it the suspension is that well tuned. Stutter bumps, skree, and mine fields don't phase this bike. Finally it simply goes wherever you won't it to...period. | | Weaknesses: | My bike wieght w/ slime is 33lbs. I think the biggest weakness is the wheelset. Shimano Deore hubs with Mavic 223x. They've got to weigh 7lbs and add the slime with some 2.3's and poof 9lbs of wheels. For the price tag I'd want something a little lighter..like Cane Creek Duros or Mavic XLs. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Deluxe 2001, Ellsworth Truth 2000 | | Bike Setup: | Fox Float 100 RL, Fox Float RL, Monkey Lite Carbon bars, Thompson Stem, XTR shifters, XTR Rear derailluer, XT front derailluer, Kenda 2.4, Kenda 2.3, XT cogs, SRAM chain,Race Face cranks,etc., etc., etc... | | Bottom Line: | Yeah I think it should be lighter for the price but, you forget about the weight and cost when your coming down the mtn.
When you have a problem with your rig be nice to your local bike shop. If they refer you to Rocky directly be even nicer to our friends up North. Basically I had a warranty issue in the middle of an eight day tour from NM to Cali, to NV, to UT. I ended up walking back to the car for 10 miles. Three phone calls and a week after my trip I had my warranty issue resolved. The kids at Rocky stand behind their products and their warranty. Thanks Rocky! Next time I'm in the market I'll be buying another Rocky. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clipper
a Cross Country Rider
from Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 19, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Sulpher Springs | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | -Outstanding Fit and Finish
-Unique and Effective take on the VPP theory of suspension
-3.5-4.5 inches of plush travel | | Weaknesses: | -Slightly heavier than my last bike, but also much more versatile. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS2, RM Instinct | | Bike Setup: | 2003 ETS X-50 frame and Fox RL Shock, 2004 Talas RL Fork, XT Shifters and Disc Brakes, XT/XTR Derailleurs, Race Face Turbines, Isis BB, XY Seatpost, Low Riser bar and Deuce Stem. Maybe not the lightest parts spec, but it gives up nothing in the way of reliability and durability. | | Bottom Line: | I have only had this bike a few weeks but have put on quite a few miles and I can honestly say that the more I ride it the better it seems to get. When set up for 3.5 inches front and rear it pedals almost as efficiently as my Instinct. There is definitely a small sacrifice in power as far as forward momentum is concerned, but almost all of that loss is transformed into increased traction at the rear wheel. Because of this I can't say that the bike is less efficient. In fact, it's uncanny ability to always hook up while climbing should give you an advantage over many other suspension designs. When the suspension is set in the 4.5" setting you can blast through downhill sections confident in the knowledge that this bike will smooth out all but the harshest impacts and deliver a magic carpet ride. If you are not one who likes tailoring the bike to each ride then just set it at 4 inches and forget about it. The Talas is the stiffest and plushest air fork I have ever encountered and the XT hydros are fantastic stoppers. At 30 pounds my 20.5 inch frame will never be mistaken for a cross country racing rig, but for those all day epic rides or 24 hour endurance races, I think the ETS is as close to perfect as you are going to get. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Brownstown Mi
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lakeshore Park Trail in Novi Mi | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | This is a follow up on my review from last year. I was recently forced to use my old bike while my ETSX-50 was in the shop for some repairs, and while I was really bummed that I had to ride my old bike, it made me even more aware of how SWEET the ETSX-50 really is. Climbs great, looks great, handles the really rough stuff great, stays on line on fast and nasty stuff better than any other bike I've riden or owned, and is just a pure pleasure to get on each and everytime that I ride. When I got my ETSX-50 back from the shop this past saturday, I was sure that I had to come back to this board to tell the rest of the story. It is all good, SO if I had the extra money, then I'd buy another ETSX-50 to be my back up bike for when my ETSX-50 goes in the shop for maintanance! That says it all. | | Weaknesses: | I had some problems with the rear end making creaking sounds like alot of the other buyers of this bike. I was able to finally rid that problem by taking it to a Rocky Mt dealer in Ann Arbor Mi. The head mechanic saw my original post about my problems, and he contacted me by email and offered to help. The fine people at Two Wheel Tango in AA Mi. AND the Rocky Mountain Rep.fixed it up real good. I think that James used lock tight in the rear end problem areas to rid the creaking problems. So, that problem was taken care of, and now it really is not an issue at all. But, I wanted it to be clear that Rocky Mountain, and there dealers, took good care of me in the end. | | Bottom Line: | I will say that I was a bit unsure of the ETSX-50 in the beginning, but Rocky Mountain has been more than willing to stand behind this product. I've been on earth for 39 years now, so I know a good thing when I see it. Rocky Mountain builds a sweet bike, and they are a company you can count on to be there if you need them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Forgy
a Cross Country Rider
from Arvada, CO
Date Reviewed: September 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Falcon | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | Front Range Bike & Ski | | Strengths: | Wow! Incredibly efficient climber, great descender, fine tuned trail manners. Overall, a dream to ride. | | Weaknesses: | I've bent the deraileur hanger twice, both were pretty weak crashes, so it surprised me. At the same time, considering the alternative might be a bent deraileur, maybe I shouldn't complain (considering the hanger can be straightened a couple of times before you have to replace the $17 part). I agree that the stock tires were quite lame and made a deal with the shop to upgrade as part of the purchase...they also upgraded pedals for an extra $50. | | Similar Products Used: | 98 Klein Mantra Comp, 02 Yeti Kokopelli, 02 Klein Palimino, 96 Bontrager Privateer | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded pedals to WTB Stealths, Tires to Mythos (can't recall the model), and put on a Shimano FlightDeck. | | Bottom Line: | I picked this bike up on August 7, 2003, and as of this moment I have put 389.3 miles on it. I did the last two races of the Winter Park series on this bike and while I couldn't finish better than fourth on my old bike, I came in second the last two races of the year.
Why? One word--Confidence. This bike inspires it more than any other bike I've ever demo'd or owned. The head tube angle puts the front wheel out there far enough that you don't have to worry about going over the bars (a frequent trip on my Mantra). I descend with confidence and climb with impressive power and command over the terrain.
Since I've purchased the bike I've set over a dozen personal bests on my local trails-climbing, descending and just plain cruising, this bike has brought me to a new level.
As far as my set up on the shocks, at 170#, I've found that 130 psi in the rear shock gets me 36mm of travel at the shock or about 90%. I had to dial in the rebound recently, but that has nearly eliminated all bob. Amazing that a well tuned, plush full suspension can bob so little (less than a 1/4 inch at the seat). As for the front, at 65 psi I'm measuring 82mm, which is about all she's got in her.
If you're a gram freak, look at the scandium full suspension bikes, but for a plush, full-mountain, raceable, enjoyable ride, the ETSX is it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
terkonekto
a Cross Country Rider
from manchester, nh
Date Reviewed: September 20, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | Jake's Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Everything. The suspention is great with Fox on both ends. The ETS does exactly what RM says it is going to do. Gives you a plush ride and propels you forward at the same time. | | Weaknesses: | None so far. | | Similar Products Used: | Specalized Epic | | Bike Setup: | Stock so far with upgrades coming during the winter (although the stock components are pretty nice). | | Bottom Line: | In my opinion this is a great bike. I fly around on this thing on any surface from fire roads to rocky downhil to twisty single track. If you have the money and want a fast bike for all occasions, invest in this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Kelowna, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 5, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Climbs like a scalded monkey...better than a Blur!!!Feels strong, looks very cool, great handler. | | Weaknesses: | expensive, could be lighter. Note that the ETSX models (30,50,70) differ only in the paint and componentry. All 3 frames are identical. | | Similar Products Used: | Owned a Rocky Instinct for 3 years. Demo'd the SC Blur, Kona Bear/Dawg and Kikapu, Giant V-Two and the FSR's | | Bike Setup: | 2002 ETSX 50 with XT/317 wheels, Grimeca System 8's, Thomson post & stem, XT drivetrain. Fox Float RL 100 fork. | | Bottom Line: | I was loving my Instinct but one demo ride on the ETSX and I was hooked. I tried several other stable platform bikes to be sure and for me, the ETSX out climbed all of them. It feels like someone is pushing you up hills, amazing! It also descends very well for an XC bike. It's a great bike for us old schoolers who ride down, rather than huck down technical sections.
The suspension is very tunable yet still climbs well even if set up on the soft side. I weigh 190 but run the shock at 175 and fork at 85-90 psi. I never use the rear lockout as it feels better active.
If considering a longer travel XC trail bike, don't buy without trying an ETSX, especially if you want a strong climber! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Warehouse | | Strengths: | Adjustability of rear travel (including lock-out)! This is huge -- it allows you to set the bike up for whatever type of riding you want to do. With this set-up you don't need multiple full suspention bikes. It comes with good (not great) stock parts. And best of all it's handbuilt (the frame, including the paint, and the wheels) ... which is rare these days. The attention to detail and quality is incredible! | | Weaknesses: | The stock tires were pretty bad, as was the stock saddle. A few of the stock components left something to be desired, but it wasn't a big deal. Also, I don't think the bike would be all that great with huge drops / serious downhill stuff, but I don't think that would surprise anyone. | | Similar Products Used: | Various Specialized FSR models, Gary Fisher hardtail, KHS softtail | | Bike Setup: | Better than a new ETSX-70! I've got a 2003 ETSX-50 Frame with 2002 paint job (look like 2003 ETSX-70 -- grey / silver), 2003 XTR parts (front & rear derailleurs, front & rear hydraulic disc brakes, combo shifters / brake levers, 959 clipless pedals, and wheel QR skewers), Race Face cranks, Thomson stem and post (with Salsa QR), Chris King headset, Easton Carbon 1.5" riser bar, ODI lock-on grips, custom Selle Italia saddle with red maple leaves, Marzocchi MX fork (stock), stock wheels, Panaracer Fire XC Pro Kevlar tires | | Bottom Line: | This is a sweet bike. I got it on a special and went to town on it. I upgraded a ton of the parts to 2003 XTR stuff and I think I'm finally done (he says with a devious grin). Don't get me wrong -- the bike didn't need the upgrades, I just like having the best stuff when I can.
Anyway, the bike can handle anything I've thrown at it. I'm not insane and I don't do big drops, so I can't speak to that stuff. But for singletrack, trail riding, and cross country rides (especially the epic ones). It's a fast bike and by swapping out some of the parts you can really lighten it up. It performs better than I expected and feels right. The geometry is perfect for me, which is something that kept me from buying other bikes.
The bottom line is that this bike can do a little bit of everything and do it all well. Special thanks to the guys at Bicycle Warehouse for getting me set-up with such a perfect ride! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bug Butter
a
from Calgary
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Strengths: | suspension config is briliant. glass smooth, efficient, infinately tunable. | | Weaknesses: | Wheels and tires, seat. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mtn Slayer, Specialized Epic Comp | | Bike Setup: | 2003 model, stock except for upgraded rear wheel (Mavic 317, XT hub) | | Bottom Line: | So far I'm very happy with this bike..... the adjustability of the suspension is just stunning. This is my first full suspension bike (old bike is a rigid Team Marin with a few minor mods). Out of all the bikes that I tried, this was the only one that worked the way a I had immagined a decent FS bike should work. Ride is a plush as you want it, or as firm as you want it. I ride mine everywhere with the rear suspension set to 4.5 inches with fairly firm rebound front and rear. It climbs better than my rigid bike (which suprised me!) and out pedals it on the flats as well (another nice suprise). I actually did not intend to buy an ETSX.... I planned to buy a Slayer, but the it was a bit of a dog on the flats (which, unfortunately, is where I end up spending a good percentage of my time), the ride was not nearly as nice as I was expecting from a bike with 5 inches of travel, and the geometry just felt a little odd to me. The ETSX was comfortable (except for the seat) and fast from the moment I got onto it.... now that I've played with the suspension a little bit, it's even better. I don't do big drops, and I don't play on ramps.... mostly cross country with some tight speedy descents, so I think this bike should be strong enough for that. The double a-arm rear suspension is not beefy enough to handle free-riding, but if you're looking for a really great FS bike that climbs like a hard tail (or better) and is un-believably fast going down, you may want to check this one out. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dund
a
from Denver
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Strengths: | great climber, shrugs off bumps w/o a problem, ajustable rear travel, great styling | | Weaknesses: | a little heavy, stock tires are only OK | | Similar Products Used: | rocky mountain edge, Giant NRS Air, klein palomino, specialized rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | stock except specialized body comp saddle, easton monkey light carbon bar and grip shift rockets shifters | | Bottom Line: | I have not been on this bike for very long, but as for now I love it. I switched from a ahrd tail and demo'd a lot of bikes, and this was the clear winner. I actually think this bike makes be a better rider, it has certainly helped with my climbing, which suprised me as I thought full suspension was supposed to make it more difficult. I highly reccomend it to anyone who wants a top notch bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BW
a Cross Country Rider
from Lake Tahoe, CA USA
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Tahoe Rim Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2350.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclepaths | | Strengths: | Adjustable Travel on Frame, Marzocchi Fork, Disc Brakes, Geometry of Bike, Reputation of Rocky Mountain customer service (luckily haven't needed it yet). | | Weaknesses: | Tires, saddle and maybe a little heavy for cross country competitive riders. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona, KHS, and Santa Cruz Superlight, | | Bike Setup: | Pretty much stock 2002 ETS 50 Silver with Flames with better tires and a more prostate friendly saddle. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for someone who wants more travel and a more plush ride than a typical full suspension cross country bike. Can handle the bigger rocks and terrain here in Tahoe. Climbs really well especially considering the higher weight than a typical cross country bike. Marzocchi fork with this frame set up make for a Cadillac type feel. Looking for a sweet ride and don't want to pay more than $3,000? Look no further.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ewen
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | tight single track with flow | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | http://www.thecyclery.ca | | Strengths: | The bike has seen a few hundred kms of single track.
Machinery
1. Frame build and design (all sealed cartridge bearings)
2. FOX Suspension (R100 and RL), what you read about the forks is true (rigid, smoooooth etc)
3. Shimano M555 brakes
4. Hand built wheels
Ride
1. climbs way better than I ever imagined anything could!
2. rocks, roots look out - I look for the dirty line now
3. braking - whow, confidence inspiring
Company
1. RM bikes emailed me back a bunch of question about their bikes
2. RM called (yes CALLED) to clarify some questions before I decided on the bike
3. RM emailed me answers to all of my techinical questions after the purchase
!!!!!!!! | | Weaknesses: | cost vs components but it is outweighed by the design and quality | | Similar Products Used: | RM Slayer, Giant AC 2, Specialized enduro, RM Switch - lots of differnt hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Michelin 2.1 Hot S tires | | Bottom Line: | - why did I wait so long rings true!
- the fun factor of my rides have increased significantly (able to clear some climbs that I couldnt on my hardtail, and have sped up my descents)
- root, rock sections of trails have become faster and less grunt inducing and just plain FUN
Note: I am coming off of a 1995 Norco Torrent (reynolds 853 steel tubing, XT/XTR) with Judy Rockshox (with speed springs).
I searched fairly extensively for my new mtn bike. In terms of buying a 'mtn bike' the choices are much different 8yrs later...
I asked myself a few questions:
1. What type of riding do I want to do?
2. what type of riding is in close proximity to the residence?
3. realistically what type of riding will I be spending the highest percentage of the time
So -
this bike fits my technical XC riding perfectly. I am riding on 4" setting on the rear (the different settings really do feel different). I ride up and down 200-300 m elevation. The trails range from fire roads to tight technical twisty on a local ski bump.
If you like to ride up and down but realize that inevitably you spend more time going up (and you kinda like it...) but still want the fun factor going down this is an excellent bike. This is not a freeride bike or light weight xc machine (I guess thats why its marketed as an epic thing : ) Buy it from a good LBS because more mechanical parts means more potential for.... So far so good. One bad o-ring in dampening unit on fox float 100R (LBS is changing), had to change some shims on M555 front calipers (LBS).
The Cyclery in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada have been excellent. http://www.thecyclery.ca
RM took the time to call and help me decide on which bike would fit my riding!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
RMB
a Weekend Warrior
from Montreal
Date Reviewed: May 21, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Strengths: | It'a rocky mountain bikes! bombproof frame, QR for the adjustable travel, rear shock with lock-out even if i don't use it, wheel and brakes. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | RM Slayer, kona dawg, stinky, specialized fsr xc, enduro, gary fisher sugar, etc... | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I have a 2002 with bead blast paint job...so nice!
This bike is simply the best trailbike you could have, a perfect all-around bike for climbing the mountain and have a lot of fun when you go down. It have a good geometry to be confortable if you ride for a long time. Rear suspension is very effective and brake jacking does'nt exist. With adjustable travel you could do everything you want...except a pure downhill or a pure xc. It's possible to go at a xc race with this bike but it was not built with (keep it light) in mind...it's a good compromise between weight and solidity so it's a better bike for an endurance event like 24 hrs. I was not sure about the shimano brake (i'm used to hayes) but i was really impressed and they work very well.
Like others my rear suspension make a loud noise after a couple of weeks...so rocky send a replacement kit for the bearing and now everything is fine.
For the value it's not the best package you could have but I put five chilis because you have an exceptionnal frame...an excellent frame is more important.
You can't go wrong with this bike!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew Weirshousky
a Cross Country Rider
from New york
Date Reviewed: December 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Rocky Point | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Junkie Bethpage NY | | Strengths: | Eats up bumps, fast, great paint job, good climber. | | Weaknesses: | Some initial problems but all were addressed by rocky mountain and my bike shop. | | Similar Products Used: | Some Yeti XC fullsuspension my friend has not sure what model he paid a lot more :) I own a Marin Team steel hardtail and a Redline monocog single speed. | | Bike Setup: | XTR rear derailleur, Flite titanium seat, hmmm I think that's all I've changed. | | Bottom Line: | I have the 2002 so I have the way cool flame paint job. This bike is fast and well worth the price i paid. Many people have stopped me to ask how I like the bike and i always say I love it. I road it this year at 24 hours of allamuchy. It came away with a few scars but is still working great. Rocky Mountain was very quick to address any problems I had. They sent out the bearing upgrade and I also had a pproblem with the quick release for the rear shock. The bike shop I use has a very good relationship with Rocky which I'm sure helped. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, Oregon, U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: December 8, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire Farm, Portland, Oregon | | Strengths: | Ease of quick-release adjustable rear travel between 3.5", 4.0", and 4.5"; strong frame with solid welding; very well balanced suspension design that is efficient and plush; disc brakes. | | Weaknesses: | The stock seat is not very durable; the pivot bushings began to creak. However, the salesperson at Fat Tire Farm warned me that this might happen. When I brought the bike into the shop for a tune-up, the Fat Tire Farm replaced the pivot bearings with the factory replacement upgrade and I have heard no sqeaking from the suspension pivots. The casing on the Hitchinson Python Light Tires began to show after 3 months of riding. | | Similar Products Used: | Prior to purchasing this bike in June 2002, I demoed the following bikes: Trek Fuel 98, Klein Mantra, Santa Cruz Superlight, Specialized FSR, Cannondale Scalpel and Jeckel, Gary Fisher Sugar 1 and 2+, Intense Tracer. | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2002 set-up with Marzocchi MXR Air fork, Fox Float RL rear shock, Shimano Deore disc brakes and LX/XT components, Race Face compnonents, and Hutchinson Python tires. During the wet weather seasons, I use the Continental Survival Pro Tire. | | Bottom Line: | This is the first full-suspension bike I have owned. The bike handles great both climbing and descending. Confidence inspiring, it has enabled me to ride faster and clean steep and technical sections of trail which I would have hesitated to ride on my old hard-tail mountain bike. The rear suspension is very efficient and plush in most situations, with no need to use the lock-out. The weight and stiffness of the bike help me maintain a relatively straight line through technical, "rock garden" sections of trail. This is an excellent bike which I enjoy more and more each time I ride it. I would recommend this bike for the aggressive trail rider who likes fast and technical trails; a rider who is more concerned with ride quality and performance than the weight of the bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank Furd
a
from U.S.
Date Reviewed: November 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Portal moab,ut | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Strengths: | No bob, lateral stiffness, Pretty light for a 4.5 inch travel bike.Plush ride.Flames look cool. | | Weaknesses: | That I didn't buy one sooner. | | Similar Products Used: | rocky spice, edge, element, elseworth, gary fisher 1+, epic, superlight. | | Bike Setup: | monkey light sl bars, easton stem, speedplay pedals. | | Bottom Line: | Best $2200 I've ever spent.I used to have a spice and beat the hell out of it.Rocky's frame are very durable and ride great.The bike feels great going up or down at any speed.Don't let the price scare you away it's worth the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Keiffer
a Weekend Warrior
from Danville, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 16, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | Pegasus | | Strengths: | It has been a joy to ride. I came from a hardtail, and I will never go back. I do feel fresher after a long ride, because I'm not as beat up. | | Weaknesses: | It was more than I wanted to pay. My wife wasn't too happy with the price either. | | Similar Products Used: | I Got tired of waiting for the SC Blur and the Epic. I got one of the first ETS X50's shipped. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Panracer Fire XC 2.1 tires, and the seat off my old bike. I also have the old (and better looking) paint job, the one that looks almost like the new X70. | | Bottom Line: | I think this bike is great. I don't feel any real "bob", even though I can look down and see the bike working. I don't know if I have the front and rear suspension tuned well enough yet. That is mainly due to my lack of knowledge in that department and is not the bike's fault.
I feel sorry for the first poster that had so many problems. I can say that picking the right shop is important. My bike had this loud creak that wouldn't go away. After my shop installed the upgraded pivot bolts it looks like every thing is fine now.
Pegasus bike shop in Danville, Ca is where I got mine. I have been happy with the way I have been treated, and I think that Rocky Mountain makes a great bike. The price was a little higher than I wanted to go, but I have been very pleased with my choice. Plus, I have been riding mine for about 6 months before the SC Blur or Epic came out. No regrets. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Pedram
a Cross Country Rider
from Pueblo, CO USA
Date Reviewed: November 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Erwin Park - Dallas area | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | very solid feel, adjustable rear suspension, componentry not overkill, but seems just right. | | Weaknesses: | price, availability, with ETS system gets in way of front deraileur adjustment screws. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain Instinct, RM Elevation, K2 Zed Team, many many others | | Bike Setup: | stock plus Panaracer Fire XC Pro 2.1 tires with stan's | | Bottom Line: | This is my first full suspension after I totaled my Haro hardtail in a crash. When I first got on the bike, with the exception of a few minor adjustments, it felt like I'd been riding that bike for 10 years.
The front fork (Fox Forx Float R) is absolutely amazing. Very buttery (and none of this margarine crap either...I'm talkin' the real deal). The same is true with the rear shock (Float RL). Also when changed from 3.5 to 4.0 to 4.5 inches of rear travel, you can definately feel the difference, and there isn't really too much change in the bike geometry.
IMHO, the componentry is very nice. No, it's not XTR or anything, but I also don't race, and don't want to pay for it. XT rear derailleur, LX front derailleur, Deore Hydraulic disc brakes (I'd probably prefer the avid mechanicals) and LX shifters.
As far as appearance is concerned, there are quite a few number of stickers on the bike (under the clearcoat) but still looks classy, and not like a rolling billboard. The rims on the other hand, are a completely different story. There were THREE 'Wheeltech' (handbuilt by rocky) stickers on each rim. I took those off (with many difficulties trying to remove the residue left behind...Goo Gone didn't work either).
This is just a preliminary review (I've only riden it a few times so far), but as of now, I am extremely pleased with my choice. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Brownstown mi
Date Reviewed: November 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Fort Custer | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Strengths: | This is a great ride if you are looking for smoothness over the entire trail. The rear end climbs over most things on climbs without any problems. Of course, that is what it is advertised to do, and that is the reason why I bought it. So, it does accomplish its mission! | | Weaknesses: | The rear end did have some harsh noises when I first bought it. I took it to the Dealer where I bought it and they said all full suspension bikes have some squeaks and noices in them. That was a line of garbage. The dealer was to lazy to address and fix the problems. One of the noises was that the rear disc brake had a small bure on the clamp that holds the brake pads in place, and it was rubbing on the rotor. I ended up finally finding that and addressed it myself! The other more substantial squeaking problem was the rear suspension hardware was defective due to engineering, and Rocky Mt. had already put out a "upgrade" package to address this problem. The dealer I bought it from lost a costomer. Rocky Mt. sent out a upgrade package to another dealer, however, they blew it with me when their sales supervisor told the new local dealer that I went to, to get the upgrade installed, that I crashed my bike, and that was the reason I was having problems with the suspension. So, while the bike as a whole has been good, I give fare warning to whom ever decides to try Rocky Mt products for the 1st time. I spent some major cash, and 1 week after I was already having some major problems with them standing behind their stuff. I spent several weeks calling them at their headquarters in Canada before I got any results, and then they went and tried to make a fool of me at the new dealship they set me up with. Hardly professional. | | Bottom Line: | If you like a plush ride that is dependable, then take a chance with the ETS-X50. But, remember that I am here hoping that I don't have any frame problems, because if I do, I am probably out of luck. I went pretty far up to get action, and then the top guy gave the problem back to a sales supervisor that didn't want to address the problems in the 1st place. So, check out the LBS real close before making a purchase. They may be your only hope! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
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