Submitted by
Zav
a Weekend Warrior
from Liege, Belgium Date Reviewed: May 30, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Strengths:
Behaves like a hardtail when neded, but much better grip / traction on way up and amazing in downhills. Pretty light as well ( sub 12kgs / 25 lbs ) so does not feel to heavy on longer distance. Still relativelly unique on this side of the Atlantic as opposed to Cannodales and Specs everybody seems to have.
Weaknesses:
Had to change some bearings after few months, apparently just unlucky owner of a few deffective ones. Takes time to get proper set-up. Feels High, and takes some time to get used to it.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Trek Fuel.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur Anodized blue, Fox float shock, Fox F100x, Race Face Atlas cranks, Deus Stem, XY seatpost, CrossMax XL tubeless wheels, Monkey Lite Carbon bar, Fizik Gobi seat, X.0. rear mech and shifters, Chris King headset, ODI grips
Bottom Line:
Been riding this puppy for the last 6 months, used to be a light hardtail fan as could not find any suspension system that allowed me to go Large on the way down but also to go through long distance biking. Here we go, got it, Dreambike, nice equipement and it is living up the expectations. Took a few months to get a decent set-up ( 75 psi front, 200 rear on my Fox Forx 100mm and Fox Float ), still need to play around with stem heigth but am in love. Took it for a ride vs FSR 120 last week and it is now obvious VPP rules, just trying to convince my friends to go for it, but on expensive side. Still have my hardtail for muddy days but dream of the Blur at night... So go for it on my behalf...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johnsey
a Cross Country Rider
from Charleston,WV,USA Date Reviewed: April 25, 2005
Fox float rear, fox f100 front, Magura marta discs, SRAM XO shifting, XT crank
Bottom Line:
Best bike I have been on, feels incredibly strong, firm and sure footed. Then just glides over the rough stuff. You really want to ride this bike all day. I have been fortunate and really outside of normal maintainance have had no problems. Do not take my word for it go ride one...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Giakouminakis
a Cross Country Rider
from Queens, New York Date Reviewed: October 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Stillwell Woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2750.00
Purchased At:
Peak Mountain Bikes (Douglaston)
Strengths:
The Suspension, Climbing abilities and overall control on the trails. Long Cockpit too...Very Roomy
Weaknesses:
None as of yet. I need disc brakes, not really a product weakness.
Similar Products Used:
My previous bike was a Trek 8500, and I have ridden GT I Drive and Jamis Dakar
Bike Setup:
I purchased my bike from Peak Mountain Bike. I Got Black Anodized Frame L, Fox Float 100RLC,Chris King Headset, Thomson Elite Stem and Seat Post, Easton Monkey Lite Low Rise Carbon Bars. The remaining Parts came from my Trek 8500 Rolf Dolomite Wheels (amazing wheels that have yet to be trued in 3+ years) Bontranger Race Cranks, Bontranger Rei Step in pedals, Avid Breaks, Shimano XT Front,XTR Rear derailers, Shimano XT Break and Shifter Pods....
Bottom Line:
I researched and researched until I could find no more articles to read about the Blur. It came down to the Specialized Epic and the Blur. After all my research I found the same to be true about the Epic as someone listed below where it seemed to be more of a Hardtail and less forgiving. I walked into Peak Mountain Bike because they were the only one that I spoke to on the phone that didn't seem like I was wasting their time (Many Snobs in NYC Bike Shops) I walked into the showroom and was happy I chose this place. This is Mountain Bike Heaven. To make a long story short I just went to look and walked out purchasing a new bike. DOH!!!! What was I thinking I just spent 2000 bucks on a frame and fork and I have to wait for it..... Needless to say this is the most amazing bike I have ever ridden. The suspension is just mind bogling. My hardtail just sits in the trainer and never comes out. There is no need any more. I have become such a better rider just because of the confidence you get from riding this bike. Also, the Fox Float is an amazing upgrade from the Rock Shox Sid I had on my 8500. It is amazing how this bike handles on the trails whether it is Hard Pack, Rock Garden, Roots etc. If I bounce off a rock I never worry. I know this bad boy grips right in and keeps going. The one thing I am glad about all me research was that I waited some time before I pulled the trigger and was able to get the Fifth Element with the bike rather than the Fox shock in the rear. I have been told that people have problems with the seals on the 5th element. Not sure what kind of riding is required to ruin this shock but I ride very aggresive singletrack and jump at every opportunity to launch off roots or ledges. Shock rocks... Also, someone mentioned durability issues with their frame and the bearings. Not sure what happened but I am sure you are a rare case. How long have you had the bike and what type of riding do you do? Well Santa Cruz does list that bearings should be checked and replaced as needed. Either way I love this bike and could never imagine buying another bike. I will only by Santa Cruz from now on....All I dream about now is riding the bike on some trail
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from PA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Great suspension design. Nice geometry except short in the TT. Good wieght. Decent customer service.
Weaknesses:
Bearings. Bearings. Bearings. Most likely inherent in the design of the VPP. Shock linked cracked with hard xc use.
Similar Products Used:
Many. Burner. Spec FSR. Heckler....
Bottom Line:
If Santa Cruz could fix the durability issues I'd likley buy another. The rear suspension was great and all it was cracked up to be. The 4.5 took all hits great, pedalled very well, and seemed like much more than 4.5". I got the bike waranteed and then sold it. My xc bike right now is a Burner which is one super ride. Not quite as squishy in the rear as the Burner but otherwise a better bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
theo
a Cross Country Rider
from asheville, nc Date Reviewed: September 4, 2004
Favorite Trail:
trace ridge, pisgah forest
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
carolina fats (rules!)
Strengths:
1st- i am a fairly agressive clydesdale rider. no sick drops, but very fast & technical descents. scary air at times. minimal bob on technical climbs- i rode 2-3 rear gears imediately. much more efficient with the VPP. incredibly rigid & responsive downhill. very low maintenance- just replaced the bushings after ~1000 miles. effortlessly & wondered if more travel would elevate me to a higher state of consciousness. it is rare to feel such physical grace.
Weaknesses:
the usual dumbass cable routing which erodes the paint at contact points
Similar Products Used:
superlight several specialized fsr's
Bike Setup:
xtr, cazne creek wheels/stem, marzochi z1
Bottom Line:
the best all-around climber & descender i've ever ridden. my next will be a vpp heckler if santa cruz can get their act together & ship the buggers
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Paul Date Reviewed: February 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light for full suspension. Excellent frame design. VPP system works. Good price.
Weaknesses:
None so far... maybe the rear tire clearance
Similar Products Used:
Klein Attitude. Specialized FSR Pro. Tomac Six Shooter.
Bike Setup:
Blur frame. XTR shifters, cassette, f.d. Bontrager race lights, King hubs, sucky v-brakes, Race Face cranks, BB, bars. Crappy post. Thompson stem. XT rear ( which I love!)
Bottom Line:
I have only been "dialing" this bike in, I have to admit I have yet to ride the trail, as the snow is still around. I have been riding it and trying to get a feel for this bike, and so far it lives up to the hype, but I won't be sure until the trails are ready. It does not seem to have much bob when you hammer, and the ride is plush when it needs to be. I can't say this enough " you have to set this bike up to get all it has". I wanted a race/epic bike, I hope it works out, I think it will. I know one thing for sure, I never want to ride a hardtail again. I will update a review asap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin Miller
a Cross Country Rider
from Living in San Francisco Date Reviewed: August 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hall Ranch in Lyons Colorado
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Strengths:
Great climber, great geometry, and decent weight. The sizing chart on Santa Cruz's website was dead on for me. I moved up to a large, and am loving it.
Weaknesses:
Santa Cruz voids the warranty if you ride this bike with a Talas. 2.35 tires won't fit on this bike on the rear. I had to settle for 2.25
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
Full XT, Avid Mechs, Kujo DH Tires (front) WTB Laser front
Bottom Line:
Really love this bike. the 4 inch rear travel feels like 5. Climbs great. This bike makes time and distance fly - it will consume all of your time. Purchase with care.
I'm riding a heavier freeride setup (30lbs). California is much less jagged than where I lived in Colorado, so i may switch to lighter set-up.
If you can afford this bike, I highly suggest it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Lake Louise, Alberta Date Reviewed: August 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Moraine Lake with Paradise poach to finish it off (local)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
Well the bike is SOLD so please stop emailing! I tried giving it another chance when I took it to Squamish BC for a week but its to sketchy on the down hills. Great bike for rolling single track but I just got to bored of those rides. And to the guy from California that wants to put things in my ass- what's with your negative energy? PEACE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Corra
a Cross Country Rider
from Durango, CO, US Date Reviewed: August 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Carbon Junction
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
T & T Bike and Ski
Strengths:
Great climber, lightweight. Very predictable on descents.
Weaknesses:
Pedal clearance, XTR shifters
Similar Products Used:
Moots, Cannondale V
Bike Setup:
Full XTR w/ disk brakes, Marz Marathon front, Fox Float AVA rear
Bottom Line:
Must say, the wait was worth it! I wanted a bike that weighs in the 25 lb range, and with all the goodies mine comes in at 25.5- not bad for a large w/ disks. At first the more upright body position felt different, and being long-armed I felt I couldn't stretch out as much as on my old bike (Cannondale V). Since, I have adjusted the new position and it feels OK. I expected the bike to be plush on the rough descents we have in Durango, and it is even better then anticipated. What I didn't expect was how well it would climb. I've been riding this area for 20 years, and I have made technical climbs on this bike that I had never made before. It feels quick on the tight, bush lined descents (although I'm still having trouble hooking branches with the wide bars), and it floats over the rough stuff. I'm psyched to put it through the paces as we get into the prime fall riding season here. Very Sweet!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Jones
a Cross Country Rider
from Samta Cruz, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
West Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Family Cycle
Strengths:
Suspension!!!
Weaknesses:
Brakes
Similar Products Used:
Various Cannondale's
Bike Setup:
XT rea, LX Front
Bottom Line:
A dream machine!! I live and ride in Santa Cruz but this is my first Santa Cruz MB. I have always been a fan of Cannondale and they are the only bike that I have owned up until now. But the blur does everyting extremely super! I am a single track maniac and the blur handles every condition like a dream! I compare it to my motorcross bike without a motor. It is like I am in control of my own roller coaster! I hope you get the message. Don't hesitate, it is not overpriced and buy one as soon as possible. It will elevate your MB experience!! And the guy who gave the negative rating to the blur (Colo). I invite him to come to Santa Cruz and bring any bike that he wants, we'll send him home crying on a huffy and a bar of sex wax up his ass! Maybe that will make him happy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Lake Louise, Alberta Date Reviewed: July 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Moraine Lake
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Cafe
Strengths:
light bike, climbs good
Weaknesses:
weak frame - mine has a dent already. poor down hill performance
Bike Setup:
fox 100rlc, super x kit, hayes
Bottom Line:
With all the hype i got sucked into thinking this would be the ultimate bike for me. After 3 months i know i made the wrong choice. Living in the Rockies gives me great access to all sorts of trails and I don't think this bike can handle going down the ruff stuff. I think a Bullit or Stinky would had suited me better. Anyone wnat to buy a blur out there?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Costello
a Cross Country Rider
from Olympia, Washington USA Date Reviewed: May 15, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Peak Adventure Sports
Strengths:
Frame weight. Fox AVA shock. Santa Cruz welds. High quality frame material and excellent Santa Cruz product support.
Weaknesses:
Collects a bit of mud in linkage area and around the rear tire. This shouldn't apply to those of you who don't ride in the extreme mud. I do ride in the mud but knocking the mud loose is a trade off for the awesome performance of this bike.
Similar Products Used:
Titus Loco-Moto, Kona MokoMoko, Cannondale Jekyll, Kona Stinky Dee-Lux
This bike is awesome. Well worth every penny of what some may see as an inflated retail price. If you want the best performance, you pay (and wait) for it. The bike climbs better than my last hardtail and is head and shoulders above high quality single pivot bikes and four bar linkage bikes I've owned and ridden. Feels like it has 6 inches of travel in back due to the frame design. The bottom line is, this bike is like riding a super tuned hardtail that has a plush rear suspension when necessary. I didn't totally believe the hype until I rode it...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
s/tracker
a Cross Country Rider
from england Date Reviewed: May 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Coed-y-Brenin, Wales
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$7300.00
Strengths:
Wow, this thing is so stiff, it rails corners. Used lock out once on road section, switched back off because it was too stiff, it felt like my road bike. Unbelievable climber.
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet.
Similar Products Used:
Have tested just about every FS bike I could get my hands on. rode a Superlight for the last few years. Klein, Maverick, Trek, Specialised (FSR,Enduro+Epic),Marin, Cannondale, GT, Kona,Ellsworth, Giant, Fisher, Scott, Intense, Rocky Mountain, Orange, etc. Have an assortment of broken parts and frames (including my superlight-stress fractures on h/t welds), will re-review long term if it holds up to the abuse of this 150lb rider.
Bike Setup:
Fox Float RLC, Sram, XTR, Hope Discs, Easton carbon. Xyclones, Speedplay Ti. Strong, very light, singletracker set-up.
Bottom Line:
Have tried this out on a variety of terrains and I am seriously impressed. Handles big rock sections with aplomb, floats over anything you chuck it at, rails corners and climbs better than anything I've ever ridden. Didn't think the suspension was working when I first got it, it was only when I didn't notice the bumps as I rode seated through a section full of 2-3 inch cobbles that I realised how plush it is, and it doesn't bob. Main riding is singletrack, so objective when testing was to find a fast, nimble, accurate line taker, which had good bump soaking qualities(small stutter bumps to rock fields), didn't suffer on the climbs, seated or standing and was light yet robust. I wasn't sure I could find all of this in one frame, so tried everything I could lay my hands on. After riding the Blur, I knew I had found it, even though I had other tests booked. Had to wait a bit, but the anticipation of pleasure made the wait worthwhile. All those complaining about the extra weight vs the Superlight, you could lose some weight(eat less,exercise more) I did some road mileage and am now several pounds lighter and way faster. If your v brake cables rub, buy discs, or fit some frame protector patches under your cables. however hard you push, this bike just encourages you to go faster, buy one and ride fast and hard.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Hendry
a Cross Country Rider
from Haleiwa Hawaii USA Date Reviewed: March 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Rain Forest run
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
South Maui bikes
Strengths:
VPP, Fox Shock is light weight and works unreal, new XTR is beyound words, Wow factor!
Weaknesses:
Mud Clearence, air shocks are not as dependable as spring shocks...hum...I had to pay for it...hum...bike theives want to steal it....it gets dirty real easy..hum...I had to fly to Maui to buy it...Oh yea...it has a high sink rate and the L/D sucks compared to a HpH 304CZ, that's about it.
Similar Products Used:
Outland VPP5
Bike Setup:
All XTR disk, Fox Float Forx 100RLC, WTB Laser saddle!,WTB old school pedals...egg beaters soon, Continental Twister Pro tires are great!
Bottom Line:
This a second review after owning it for 3+ months. It dosen't get any better....yet. Had the bike for a few months now and the more I ride it, the better I like it. No regrets what-so-ever. If there's a weakness....it's sitting on the seat holding the handlebars;-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alfonso batalla
a Cross Country Rider
from bilbao-SPAIN Date Reviewed: March 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
almost anyone
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
ciclopolis/bike comp
Strengths:
This one is a magic carpet!-Confortable and smooth but climbs so well you try slopes you´d never tried before-better downhill even that my former trazer
Fox talas rlc-sram x.0-xtr 2003 cranks-hope brakes with stan rotors-mavic crossmass with stan kits-easton stem, bar and seatpost-SLR transam saddle
Bottom Line:
A friend of mine call it the magic carpet and that´s true. When you seat on in first time you think it will be too soft, but it climbs so well you forget about the lockout. Very safe and stable when going down. Fantastic for epic rides. I think everyone would love this bike, but the hard tail fans who like suspension bikes with a very hard feeling on the rear end (like Epic, or Giant NRS), although Blur is more efficient when pedalling. Acellerates like a rocket. Die to try it with the new 5th element air shox. Mine is about 11,5 kg which is pretty good for its specs. Rear triangle is too wide so i sometimes hit it with the back of my shoe rubbing somoe of the anodising. But wheel clearance is poor and collects a lot of mud. Best bike i have ever had-Feels different to anything on earth-wont change it, unless they make up an improved version.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
theo
a Cross Country Rider
from asheville, nc Date Reviewed: March 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
black mt (pisgah)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
carolina fatz
Strengths:
climbing- no bob none rigidity- downhill rocket agility- dances through the trees
Weaknesses:
low rear wheel clearance- grabs leaves/mud
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz superlight, all of the FSRs
Bike Setup:
Z2 bomber (110mm), avid disks (8" front, 6" rear), XT/R, race face stem & carbon cranks, thompson post, cane creek wheels
Bottom Line:
I am a skeptic- but it is all true. I ride technical cross country in the mts of western NC with lots of long technical climbs & fast downhill, & this bike is perfect. I've taken it on several long shakedown rides on varied trail surfaces. This thing accelerates, climbs, & downhills a level above anything else. I don't quite get the physics, but it defies nature in its absence of bob- even standing & mashing uphill. I am climbing 1 or 2 rear gears higher & still feeling fresh at the top. It is unbelievably stable downhill & eats up rocks. If it were a girl, I'd date it...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brandon
a Cross Country Rider
from Tempe, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
I'm new to the area, so any trail is good
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Slippery Pig Bikes
Strengths:
This bike is AWESOME! I am a novice mountain-biker, but this bike has made a tremendous difference in my confidence to tackle more difficult trails.
Weaknesses:
Price. Product availabilty.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Paragon
Bike Setup:
Black ano frame, Chris King Headset, Fox AVA w/ lockout, Marzocchi MX Comp w/ ETA fork, XT Drivetrain-brakes-shifters, XTR/Mavic 517 wheelset
Bottom Line:
Ok, so I went a little over the edge. I have only been riding for a few months. I "had" a Gary Fisher Paragon (I am selling it to help offset some of the Blur cost's), and I got the urge to buy a "fixer-uper" so I could learn more about the mechanics of bikes. So I bought a '97 Schwinn Factory Homegrown FS, and a long list of high end components, BEFORE I read all the negative reviews about URT frames. I then started researching full suspension bikes in the MTBR reviews, and came across the positive reviews and articles about the Blur. I called around and the only bike shop that I could find in Phoenix that carry's Santa Cruz's is Slippery Pig Bikes. I went down there yesterday JUST to test ride a Blur. The had a medium already built on the floor, and a large Black Ano hanging on the wall. After riding the medium it was apparent that the large would fit me better, so I bought it right then and there. I immediately drove home and started assembling the bike. I was up until 4 am putting it together, and then out riding until the sun came up. I crashed for a little while, and spent the entire day riding singletrack. All I can say is this bike is worth the money. I was taking trails that I would have never taken on my Paragon. I can't wait to ride again tomorrow, and I might not wait until then. I am thinking about throwing my Niterider lights on and hitting Papago for a little late night fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Hendry
a Cross Country Rider
from North Shore Hawaii Date Reviewed: January 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Pupakua
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Barnfield's
Strengths:
This bike is the bomb! Rode the reps all XTR 24lb bike w/disk and it blows my Outland VPP5 away. Best bike out there for X country. VPP, light weight
Weaknesses:
Not in stock, waiting list:-( Expensive, can buy a new KTM motorcycle for the price of all XTR Blur with all the good stuff almost! Air shock...all mine go. I would like a spring for long X country in the middle of nowhere.
Similar Products Used:
Outland VPP5
Bike Setup:
All XTR w/disk brakes...oh my God! 24lbs!
Bottom Line:
My next bike....blue
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: January 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Poison Spider - Moab
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$2750.00
Strengths:
Efficient, light, well put together
Weaknesses:
Cost, availabiltiy
Similar Products Used:
Jeckyl, Giant, Gary Fisher, I tried every mountain bike on the market. The Superlight was my favourite until I was finally able to test the Blur. WOW.
Bike Setup:
Super X with Disc brake and Fox Float
Bottom Line:
This is by far the best full suspension mountain bike on the market, and I have demoed them all. I have taken the Blur on some extended test rides and it was amazing. I now have my deposit with my LBS. They will ammend a bike that they already have on order to my specs.
Even though it is more than I wanted to spend - I couldn't justify spending less than this. My wife is going to get a Blur with the R kit and the Duke XC front shock. This bike will come in at $1750. However, we were buying 4 bikes total - so we probably go a very good deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim W
a Racer
from Bristol Date Reviewed: December 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Freetown
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1349.00
Purchased At:
Providence Cycle
Strengths:
Well, I got it because Dave said it was a good bike. It does what they claim it does. NO bob, and it decends like you are sitting in a barcalounger. I suck at going downhill, Dave is much better, and this bike makes me ride almost like a normal guy.I think the settings you get for the rear shock are pretty soft. I bottomed the suspension real easy. So next ride I am going at 40 lbs. more. Just like Dave. Feels like a hardtail when you jump on it, and I think it will become the main ride in the woods.
Weaknesses:
Dave didn't like the color. My wife got pissed when I spent the money to build it up. At the soft settings they suggested for my weight, I was banging the pedals on just about everything. I think with the stiffer shock setting, it won't dive as much (the bottom bracket area) when the shock engages, and hence son more or reduced pedal banging.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Specialized M4 hardtail. And Dave's bike. But he won't let me ride it, I just look at it.
Bike Setup:
XTR, carbon seatpost and handlebars, and a red dinger bell on the handle bars.
Bottom Line:
I'll have to ask Dave really, but I like the bike. Life is alot easier when you don't have to think for yourself. Thanks Dave. Seriously, its not cheap, but if riding is your gig, its the real deal. Thanks for reading
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jamie
a Cross Country Rider
from temecula ca Date Reviewed: December 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything at mammoth
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
santa cruz quality,smooth suspension.
Weaknesses:
so comfortable my rear gets sore from sitting so much
Similar Products Used:
fsr sworks
Bike Setup:
03 xtr, hayes, psylo race crossmax xl
Bottom Line:
without a doubt the smoothest, most stable full suspension xc bike I have had the pleasure to ride. climbs effortless and descends like a 6 in freeride rig. if your a weight weenie you might be dissapointed dragging the extra pound around, but when you realize the energy saved by not taking a beating on that 2 in pogo stick xc racer it is well worth it. ride on
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keith
a Cross Country Rider
from Cary, NC Date Reviewed: December 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Pisgah
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist (The Best!!!)
Strengths:
Very efficient pedaler, Most laterally and otherwise stable suspension frame in the rear triangle that I have ever ridden. Ultra solid descender. Great anno job.
Weaknesses:
Weighs more than expected. Brake line hose routing for rear disc could be better.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Super Light (Great bike as well), Ellsworth Truth, Turner XCE, etc.
Bike Setup:
SRAM XO, Fox Forx, X-max, Hope minis, Thompson, Next LPs, etc.
Bottom Line:
First off, this bike is a very quiet climber. It stays solid on the ground with no bouncing or deflecting. The trail seems a lot less busy on this bike. No feedback. Just point it where you want it and pedal away. It is a wondeful east coast gnarly, rooty, rocky terrain kind of bike. The ride is very neutral and predictable. Downhilling is even more amazing (and fun) than its climbing abilities. It feels similar to a bike with a big cushy coil over shock on the rear. It's hard to beleive that an air shock can be made to work so smoothly. It's also very, very stable at speed. The big bumps are really gobbled up as are the small ones. This bike feels a lot more solid laterally than any full suspension bike that I have ever ridden (Ellsworth Truth and Turner XCE were probably my two favorite bikes prior to buying this bike). The Truth was a good climber, but the rear end just moved around too much for my tastes and sometimes it felt overly active and flexy. The Turner was more like this bike in the fact that it was a great descender and was ultra solid feeling at speed, but its weight didn't allow it to climb anywhere near as well as the Blur. The stability was obtained by adding more weight in construction to stiffen things up, a slacker head angle and a coil over rear shock. You get all of these benefits with the Blur with less weight and a steeper head angle which steers better in the tight stuff and it still climbs like no other. Don't get me wrong, I still think the XCE is a wonderful bike as well. I really can't stress enough how solid the rear triangle on this bike is. I'm not sure why this hasn't been raved about more the way the rest of the bike has been. Keep in mind, I didn't go to any great lengths in setting this bike up either. I just pumped the shock up to Santa Cruz's specs and took off. Also, Santa Cruz should be commended for their commitment to keep these bikes at a reasonable price. They could have just as easily charged $2000.00 for these frames and sold every one. That's reason enough for me to keep riding their bikes instead of some over priced brands. Finally, I think anyone who lives for technical trail riding both up and down hill as well as epic type rides will love this bike. If you get a chance to buy one, I just can't see how you would ever regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trailbuilder
a Cross Country Rider
from Claremont Date Reviewed: December 22, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Suspension is relatively plush and can be run soft while bob is still gone, climbing still very good. Rear end hook up while climbing seems a bit affected by the vpp. DH feels smooth like a longer travel bike.
Weaknesses:
It seems maybe they could shave some gms. from next years version.
Similar Products Used:
Enduro, Epic, I-drive Team (nice)
Bike Setup:
xtr, chris king, thompson, avid mech. Psylo race 25.5
Bottom Line:
climbs a bit more sluggish than the lighter GT (v-brakes), but deals with a lot, lot more and may save the back of this old fool keeping me riding for another twenty or more. This could be the best ride yet for an all around sled as it glares back with no apparent problems. Quiet as a lamb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Albert
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin Date Reviewed: December 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
Light for a full suspension with these capabilties. No need for lock-out on the rear of this bike. Great out of saddle sprints and even a better climber.
Weaknesses:
Like any full suspension bike the knowledge of the proper spin is invaulable.
Similar Products Used:
I have ridden a Trek Fuel 90, Specialized Epic, and Giant NTFS.
Bike Setup:
All XTR with the exception of the cranks, where I am running XT. On the front, I am using Manitou Skareb Super (sweet). Thompson and easton accessories all coming to a super light 23.87 lbs.
Bottom Line:
AWESOME! This is the best Mountian Bike, I have ever ridden. Simply said, if you are looking for the best XC bike on the market the Santa Cruz Blur is it!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Reilly
a Racer
from Redondo Beach, CA USA Date Reviewed: November 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Backbone
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Helen's, Manhattan Beach
Strengths:
Relatively light, great climbing, smooth riding F/S bike. This bike could weigh 25 lbs. without spending a million bucks (V-brakes, lighter fork).
Weaknesses:
Not quite as solid downhill as the UZZI I just sold. But that bike weighed over 30 lbs. and climbed poorly. (I guess that's not a weakness, then.)
Similar Products Used:
UZZI XC, GT Zaskar, GT LTS
Bike Setup:
For test-bike: Large size (I'm about 6", 160 lbs.), Fox rear w/o lockout (probably don't need it?), Fox RC fork w/lockout (nice!), XT, Hayes disc brakes, Monkey-lite bars (no bar-ends), crummy test-bike tires.
Bottom Line:
I am not big on riding bikes other than my own, set up as I prefer, so I was hesitant on doing the "test-ride" thing. However, within minutes this bike felt completely natural to me (except for the wide handlebars that I coundn't chop off). At first, it seemed to sit a little tall (although the specs say the BB height is only 12.5"), but that feeling disappeared by the end of the ride. The bike hooked up on steep climbs and felt lighter than the 27 lbs. (w/disc brakes) it weighed. On the long moderate uphill to the ride's end, I kicked it into gear and dusted my buddy to the cheers of the local downhill bunch who were relaxing by the trail!
I am ready to retire the Zaskar (a good hardtail ride) frame, and rebuild the bike with the Blur frame. I was thinking about a buying a Trek Fuel frame, but why compromise. With the Santa Cruz I could do it all, trail ride, train and race. The frame price is reasonable, but it's going to take a month to get it. So don't order yours until they ship mine!
James Reilly jamesreilly.com iflylax.com realgoodmovies.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gregg M
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: October 27, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Calgary Cycle
Strengths:
Great Climber, Great decender. This is by far the best bike I have ever ridden.
Weaknesses:
Nothing.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Truth, Superlight
Bike Setup:
Super-x Disc, with Race-face Next crank, 959 pedals. Fox 100 RL.
Bottom Line:
Just received this bike late last week and took it for a spin near Banff (Canadian Rockies). It climbed like no other bike I have ever ridden. On the decents, it was awesome. I was with some other guys with DH bikes and I was able to keep up to their every move. On x-country trails, it floated over both large and small bumps. Their is absolutly no 'bob'!! I would recomend this bike to any x-country/weekend DH. -If you are thinking about a new bike, definately check out the Blur.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave T
a
from Salinas, Ca Date Reviewed: October 24, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
At $1499.00 it's by far a bargain compared to the Epic or Ellsworth or anything else for that matter
Weaknesses:
It's just starting to become available as of 10/20
The bottom line : People who don't OWN a PRODUCTION bike shouldn't be out here rating/berating a bike they don't even have. How can the Blur not be a good value at $1500? An Epic or Ellsworth are $500 more... Build ISSUES are mentioned by another reveiwer but he only mentioned 1 that does NOT have any effect on the performance of how the bike works. I KNOW, I've built 2 so far and the cable rub on the v-brake boss will only slightly wear the powder-coat or anodization in time and has NO effect on shifting or frame integrity. I've spent a fair ammount of time on the Epic and Blur, IN MY OPINION : If you are a RACER - the Epic will work for you. If you ride all day long and want a fun, comfortable bike that CLIMBS & DESCENDS UNBELEIVABLY WELL then get on a waiting list at your LBS for your Blur. Please pay no attention to my "Overall Rating" because I don't have one yet, BUT - The Blur is the BEST VALUE of any FS/CC bike to date HANDS DOWN! Just my 2 cents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Fambrough
a Cross Country Rider
from Plano, Texas Date Reviewed: October 22, 2002
XC racers will want a bike that feels more razor sharp and crisp
Similar Products Used:
GT i-Drive
Bottom Line:
I just wanted to share some information I've learned from researching the Santa Cruz Blur and the Specialized Epic to help give riders a better distinction between the two fs designs. The Epic's ride characteristics and fs design lean closer to a hard tail. It doesn't smooth out big hints as you encounter them on the trail as much as it responds to them a second or two after. Therefore, the ride is more firm and less plush. Similar to the Giant NSR. In contrast, the Blur rides more like a traditional fs bike, minus any bob. It floats over the terrain rather than reacts to it. As a result, the ride is more plush and forgiving (not as plush as a Truth). Think of the Blur as a more refined Superlight. Both designs climb as if it were born in the mountains; however, the Blur fs eats up the rough stuff more efficiently with less effort -- making it perhaps the better XC fs choice.
With all that said: 4 chilis because it isn't cheap, and 5 chilis thanks to it great fs design.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco, CA, US Date Reviewed: October 8, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Boy Scout Camp
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Light weight, looks, price
Weaknesses:
Build
Similar Products Used:
Titus Switchblade, Turner XCE, Santa Cruz Superlight
Bike Setup:
Titus Switchblade, Martas, Fox Float, SRAM XO
Bottom Line:
Completed a test loop at the Dirt demo at Interbike. Nice bike, climbs well, decends well but no better then any four bar that I have ridden. It does not excell at the slow stuff but hits the sweet spot after 10 miles an hour. Also what concerned me is the build quality. I saw 2 at the show and both had the rear cables rubbing on the v-brake post. When I asked Santa Cruz about this they said it might be a problem with the first batch but it would be corrected by the second batch. I would wait for a couple of batches before a purchase. 4 for value, 3 for build issues....they should have caught that.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
EZ
a Cross Country Rider
from New York Date Reviewed: October 8, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Allamuchy
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Climbing, great traction. Also a very good sprinter. Not heavy.
Weaknesses:
Not plush enough.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Jeckyl, SC Superlight
Bike Setup:
Fox Float fork, Avid Mechanicals, XT drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
The bike a has a solid feel and climbs very well. The faster the bike the ridden, the plusher and better mannered it becomes. On slower, more technical trails, it is no better than other designs such as the Turner or a properly dialed in single pivot bike, IMHO.
The rear end does perform better than the Superlight, which ramps up way too fast for my taste.
However, if you like plushness, look elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff yang
a Weekend Warrior
from Laguna Niguel Date Reviewed: September 27, 2002
Luckily I was able to test the Santa Cruz Blur in July of 2002 and did a 25 mile ride with this bike. Overall I was very impressed with it's proformance. The suspention "bob" was minimal under heavy pedaling uphill. Yet the downhill proformance was steller! For a bike with only 4' of travel I could have sworn to be riding one with 6'. The great part about this bike is that there is no leavers to pull to adjust the rear suspention (ie:lock out), it dosen't need any. I always felt wierd about reaching btw my legs to lock something out. I am still in the market for a full suspention bike. This bike is in the price range that I'm looking for(I want a trail bike, not a xc racer). My Other considerations are the Giant ac Airlite, Rocky Mountain Slayer (2003 prehaps), and this bike. I'm so torn. So far, this is the best f/s bike that I have ever been on. It has everything that I'm looking for: f/s with great uphill abilities(due to the ecc front lockout and no "bob"), sooooft suspention, light weight (my guess was about 27lbs for this bike)and generally a fun bike. I think this bike does it all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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