Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from BrisVegas, Australia Date Reviewed: April 11, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
mtbdirt.com.au
Strengths:
Absolutely awe inspiring confidence, this frame is now 7 years old, yet is still in the best condition, no cracks or dents. Just want to try bigger, better, steeper, you name it, you'll try it (OK, maybe not HUGE hucks, but hey, it's still good).
Weaknesses:
None, I even emailed Santacruz with the frame number to check it's product date. They were amazing with the help they gave. Great customer service.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Rocket 1, Kona Coiler, Kona Bear, Cannondale Gemini.
Bike Setup:
Small frame with Vanilla RC 6" rear sus, 2002 Boxers, XTR rear mech, XT front dual mech with Blackspire Bashy,Raceface Diablos stem & bars, onone saddle with thompson elite seatpost, 2.7 DH Minion up front and 2.5 Michelin at back.
Bottom Line:
LOVE THIS BIKE - Have set it up for freeriding, however, it handles downhill and jumps no problem, and even peddles uphill without too much of an effort, currently weighs 17 Kilos, which is pretty light for what it can do. Bought this bike after extensive research and reading the reviews on this site, and have been more than happy. Way to go Santacruz. Not having to change the geometry on this bike too much in over 6 years means they must of been on the ball to start off with. My riding has definately improved since I got this bike. My wife even bought a freeride bike after having a go on the bullit. Last word, try one, you'll love it...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler Pace
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: February 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Green Valley/Stucka Springs Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Bomb-proof, pure and simple. This is an indestructible frame!
Weaknesses:
Weight....of course. It's a beast, but that's why it's bomb-proof.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn 4-Banger, Schwinn Straight-6
Bike Setup:
Full-XTR, Marzocchi Bomber Dual-crown, Hayes Hyraulics.
Bottom Line:
I'm a cross-country rider who is normally a bit scared to go super-fast downhill and take the big jumps; that is, I was, until I picked up this bad boy. This bike can take anything; it's truly amazing. Sure, it's heavy, but the fact that it's bomb-proof makes it all worth while.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Mountain View, CA, USA Date Reviewed: July 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Braille
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Mike's Bikes
Strengths:
Great suspension, solid ride, reasonable weight, bargain (relatively speaking) price.
Weaknesses:
None that I can tell, other than the lack of knowledge of their dealers Mike's Bikes in Palo Alto, CA was the exception. The other shops listed as SC dealers I talked to didn't know squat. If I have to do all the research, figure out what model/size I need via the SC website (and sites like this one), and pay in full when I order, why should I be forced to pay some retailer's markup who didn't do a thing BUT TAKE AN ORDER? That markup is intended as payment for overhead and the value added of product knowledge. Hey Santa Cruz - sell direct! Most retailers don't do a thing to earn their place in the distribution channel.
Similar Products Used:
SC Superlight, Jamis Dakar Team, Specialized FSR Enduro, Specialized FSR Big Hit
Bike Setup:
Psylo SL 5", Avid cable discs w/ 2.0 Speed Dials, Vanilla RC, old school (110mm) XTR cranks(w/ Kooka Crankcase bashguard), Shimano 686 platforms, XT Fr&R deraileurs, XTR 8SPD rapidfires, White Ind disc hubs w/ Sun 0 degree rims, SRAM 11-32 8SPD cassette, Azonic ORC 90mm stem, Bonty Crowbars, Easton Alu post, FSA Pig DH headset.
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks. It's got my 42 year old body doing stuff it shouldn't, like wheelie dropping off downed redwoods and jumping off/over pretty much everything that gets in the way. It's a real confidence builder, kind of the same way gold chains & hairplugs are for most guys my age. Also, I'm pretty sure I got my money's worth on the first ride, so everything from here on is bonus points. I normally ride a 19", which would have been a Large in SC Land. After talking to the guys at SC (great company to deal with, by the way - too bad they don't sell direct - see above), I found the standover is the same for M,L, & XL, so I bought the XL to get the 24.5" top tube and be able to comfortably run a 90mm stem (as opposed to the 120mm I would have put on the L). As a side note, the Avid discs work extremely well, and don't require any hydralic fluid hassles. If you're not into full-on DH racing, save yourself the hassle and buy the Avids.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Doyal
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago IL Date Reviewed: May 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Orland Park Schwinn
Strengths:
Frame design, components,shocks,
Weaknesses:
price is up there, most people who do not work at a shop won't pony up for a bike that costs this much in the mid-west. It is a little heavy but who cares when you have 6 inchs of travel
Similar Products Used:
98 schwinn s-10
Bike Setup:
stock, psylo, fox vannilla R, LX/XT/XTR, wtb laser disc wheels, Hayes hydros
Bottom Line:
I will start by saying that this is not my only bike, and I know that most people in the mid-west don't want/need 6 inchs of travel, but I wanted it. On the first ride I was very happy with the bike, it soaked up everything, and it climbed suprisingly well. The brakes were unbelevable(this is my bike with hydros)aside from the rear rotor coming off(my fault forgot locktite) I had no troubles with anything, and the best part is after riding I did feel as beat up as I normally do. Would I reccomend the bike, sure if you want a freeride/long travel XC/FS bike don't mind spending alot of cash, and have a hard tail to ride when you go out with the really fast guys/gals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Lee
a
from Kingston, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Urban
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
Looks Awsome, Rides Awsome. Practically adjustable to a hard tail, Yet Capable of taking 20 foot drops onto flat Concrete.
Weaknesses:
Very Costly. Top tube sits a little higher than I'd like, but I've also got a 7inch front fork so it's not the frames fault.
I'd Like to try the Super 8 sometime because I find that I'm bottoming out pretty hard on the 6inches that comes with bullit frame.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Specialized, Kline, GT, K2, ...
Bike Setup:
Bullit Frame: It's the Best for my Urban Excursions 7inch Stratos Fork: Just in case I nose dive Race Face Krank: Because It's warrantied for life LX components: Because they're cheaper to replace than XTR
Bottom Line:
The Bottom Line is that it's expensive. We're talking 2500 Canadian dollars for just the frame and that's not including the fork. But if you can afford it, Get it!!! (or at least try it) The rear suspension can be adjusted to be rock solid for a nice ride to work, or loosend off for maximum suspension required for your planed jumps after work.
I would not recommend this bike to anyone that still has there sanity because it would be a waste of money if you didn't do anything crazy with it. What's important for me is not the kilometers that has been riden but rather the amount of feet that has been fallen. $2500 for the bullit wasn't a bad investment for me, considering the fact that I I haven't broken, snaped, or bent it/ !!!yet!!!
Therefore this frame is worth the money, but only if you can really put it's quality to the test. Otherwise stick to something more affordable. What I can see happening is that somebody will go all out and buy the frame and then equip it with forks and parts that the Santa Cruz Bullit will just laugh at.
Note: This bike is to die for Please be prepared for an attack.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kai S.
a Downhiller
from F-7230 Lablachere Date Reviewed: January 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Suicide du Roi
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2650.00
Purchased At:
backyard ch
Strengths:
Didn´t manage to destroy it, the Bike which lastet longest!! Hard trails every day, very good performance
Submitted by
Terry Brenton
a
from Arvada, Colorado Date Reviewed: January 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tiger Mountain, WA
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Mountain and Road Bicycle Repair, Idaho Springs
Strengths:
Lots of travel, but can still climb. You can have the best of both worlds. A DH bike that climbs. The best free ride frame around.
Weaknesses:
None worth mentioning. Some people don't like the weight, but you can't find a frame with 6 inches of travel, burly construction, and that light of a weight, especially for the same price. I guess you could complain about the bobbing, but that's only if you don't have good spin. The only time the bike swooshes is if you stand up crank hard, and it's mainly my front z1 that swooshes. The tail end pretty much stays put.
Similar Products Used:
Alpinestar frames, built by control tech - I don't think you can get these frames in the U.S. anymore. Other frames tested before purchasing include Specialized, GT, Santa Cruz Heckler, Rocky Mountain. There are a lot of good FS frames out there. But I liked the Santa Cruz best. Besides, most of the bigger name brands you run into proprietary problems, like certain screws you can only buy from Specialized that bolt the derailleur hanger on that change every year. So if you have an older frame and snap off a derailleur hanger, you get to jump through hoops to get parts....besides, who wants to be a clone? It's nice to have a bike different than the one everyone else is riding.
Bike Setup:
Race face,azonics, zokes with vario spring guts, bontrager, no shimano garbage, hadley hubs, DT triple butted spokes 13-15-14, Maxxis 2.5 high roller rear, tioga 2.35 front, most important feature = salsa quick adjust seat clamp. Lets you stretch it out on the climbs, but bring'er down to low rider mode for the DH.
Bottom Line:
When I first rode this bike, I liked it, but something wasn't right. Do yourself a favor and ditch the cross country wheelset. This bike was made to run bigger wheels. Once I moved to the DH wheels, I fell in love with the bike. It used to weigh 29lbs ( XL frame ) with the cross country wheels. Now it weighs 38. I don't even mind because the performance of the bigger wheels negates the weight. Just get yourself some low gears on the rear side so you can slow and steady crank up the hill. I recommend to everyone to try the Maxxis High Roller. Climbing is adequate. The downhill is sick. When I need a more climbing friendly meat, I've been sticking with the conti survival pro 2.35. Climbs better, but it's no maxxis on the DH.
Note that Santa Cruz says you can't run anything bigger than a 2.35 in the rear unless you have the newer model frame ( after 1999 ) or switch out to the newest rear triangle. I run a 2.5 on the back with no problem, just as long as you keep the wheel true/dished. You knock it outta wack, and it'll rub a little. No big deal, just put some thick chainstay tape/guards on. If you do need a new rear triangle, they run @ $250. I've heard some people say they bent the rear triangle. I haven't had any problems, and I'm a big dude, and land most of my jumps sideways.
I also recommend, depending on your size - getting the next higher preload spring for the rear shock from fox. It's only like 20 bucks. I'm 6'4 and 210 lbs. I could tell that I was losing too much travel in preload. The bike runs like a new machine with more preload. Save the travel for the hits-not parking your butt on the seat.
Up front I run the zokes z1bam with 5.5 inches. Same deal here. If you run that shock - get a higher preload spring. I run the vario - works well. With the normal brake stiffener, you can only run a 2.35 up front though. If I changed anything on the bike it would be the front shock. Something with 6+ inches would be ideal.
The hayes disc brakes are necessary to stop this thing, not from the weight, but because this bike is so sweet you don't realize you're doing about 300mph on the downhills. Especially in nasty conditions. I lived in WA, now in CO. The muddy wet in WA didn't affect the braking. We did a snow ride a couple weeks ago - everyones wheels were caked in snow and they had no brakes. Disc brakes not affected. The only thing that is a pain about the hydraulic brakes - bleeding. It's almost a two person job. You have to have a bike stand to do it. And it's messy. But, then you get hydraulic brakes, so it's a love/hate thing.
Who should buy this? Anyone who is more concerned with having fun than bragging about how light your bike is. I raced cross country, I'll never go back after having this bike. It climbs decent, even at 38lbs. Downhill - I can't describe in words just how sweet it is. And going on an urban assault? You gotta be kidding. I never thought biking in the city on a DH bike could be so fun.
If you are deciding between the Heckler and the Bullit - go with the bullit. You won't be sorry.
Best place to look into getting one is Mountain and Road Bicycle Repair in Idaho Springs. Good price, excellent service. Owner Jerry can build you a wheelset second to none as well. I ditched my cross-max for a set of his wheels. Also had a nice wheelsmith set that can't compare to his wheels. I recommend running Hadley hubs or Chris King. The Hadleys weigh about 10 grams more the the Kings, but are mucho cheaper. The Chris King hubs are better though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Skinny J Tyo
a Downhiller
from P-Town Date Reviewed: January 12, 2001
None so far. Some might complain its a little portly, but if I cared about that I'd shave my legs and train.
Similar Products Used:
My first full suspension bike. Before it I went through two GT Timberlines, and a Zaskar. May the first two have their guts pecked out every day by some mean lookin' vultures only to re-grow them. I wish only the best for the Zaskar.
Bike Setup:
Blue Bullit, Judy XLC (just waitin' for it to snap), Magura HS-22's, Race Face cranks,MRP WC1 (I know its incompatible, but I'm strapped for cash), Azonic Bar, Trans X stem ($30 and king), 521 rear wheel, Tioga Factory Dh 2.3f/2.1r
Bottom Line:
I'm lovin this bike. Its so pretty I could just stare at it all day. But I don't. I ride it. I'm goin huge on this thing. The four footer, flat landings I used to hit on my Zaskar that made me pee my baggies every time I nosed 'em up: like curbs on the Bullit. I'm not pushin more than 6' right now 'cause I want to be healthy for this upcoming lacrosse season. The bottom line on this slice of heaven:
Its stonger than a gorilla on creatine and faster than a cheetah hopped up for a World Cup XC race. Portlanders e-mail me if yah wanna ride: we got potential for a burly urban scene. over and out
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Donny Vaillancourt
a Downhiller
from Cupertino Ca Date Reviewed: December 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fremont Fire Road
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Stans Bikes
Strengths:
Frame is built bombproof! This Bike can handle anything!
Weaknesses:
Creaking in Bottom Bracket but thats caused by other purposes.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
AZONIC build kit w/ JR. T marzocchi. Raceface Northshore Spline drive
Bottom Line:
This bike means serious buisness! Im a sixteen year old rider and the only thing I do is beat the hell out of it and the only thing I complained about was the damn flat I got! Up hill is easy but on the downhill you'd leave all your friends behind!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: November 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
mix n match wales
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Stif
Strengths:
Solid frame,way cool looks. Takes hits well, point and go stering.
Weaknesses:
crappy bottle mount position
Similar Products Used:
vertigo comp, rock springs
Bike Setup:
mcr1, d321s, hope, the usual addons.
Bottom Line:
This is by far the best thing i've purchased. Goes down like its on acid, goes up, what can ya say, IT GOES UP.. Have done all sorts of routes, short fat and hairy scarey, and this bike just rocks the Sh*t out of em. Go get one. Beats the pants off my buddies bikes hands down, stop askin can I have go, NO you gimp, get yer own. So its a tad heavy for long leg/lung breakin xc, easy don't do em or get fit. An inspiring ride of a bike, go get muddea.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Downhiller
from Orange County CA Date Reviewed: September 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Santiago Truck Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Bike Company
Strengths:
This Bike Rocks! Suspension is very plush. Handling is awesome...Point and shoot..Pedals really well, climbs well, no noticable suspension enduced pedal feedback. Inspires confidence. The frame geometry is right on. Laid back, but still steers and maintains a line when climbing.
Weaknesses:
If you set it up so that you have the most relaxed head angle, the bottom bracket is lower to the ground. This causes you to bash pedals at times when pedaling over rough stuff. Otherwise...NO WEAKNESSES
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain DHTO, Ventana El Matador
Bike Setup:
XTR and RAceface components, Z1 Bomber fork. Good stuff, but nothing that is "stupid light". (will be installing a Manitou X-Vert Carbon triple clamp as well as Hayes Disk brakes in the near future.)
Bottom Line:
This bike does it all. Climbs really well. Just get up on the nose of the seat and crank it. Rear wheel digs in. No noticable bobbing or suspension induced pedal feedback. Awesome traction. On descents it is a screamer. Handles drops extremely well. Corners great. Low center of gravity and the bike goes right where you point it. Can be built up relatively light. What's more, the bike does not feel heavy. Rides like a much lighter bike. This is going to be used as a trail bike and sport-level downhill racer. I have a feeling it will do both well. This bike would work well for anyone except weight weenies. I cannot say enough good things about this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
devin bodony
a Weekend Warrior
from kingston WA USA Date Reviewed: September 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
pope
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
cyclesport NJ
Strengths:
bombproof, super plush. geometry is flawless. a blast to ride.
Weaknesses:
cranks chronically loose. but i built it up. there XT splined.
Similar Products Used:
nothing like it. last bike was specialized fsr
Bike Setup:
full XT. azonic bar, stem. kore post. titec dh saddle. bomber z1 cr. rhyno lite on lx weels. and the odi grips kick ass!
Bottom Line:
this bike rules. super fun to ride. it would have a much nicer feel with a 6 inch plus fork. it doesn't have the super plushness through the rough stuff that it would with a bigger stiffer fork. but this setup rules for urban stuff and medium to hard free riding. prtty light for the travel. mine ways 32.5 punds. kick ass. good for downhill if you set it up hurky. pedals really well all things considered.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frisco Kid
a Downhiller
from Tempe Date Reviewed: September 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
National
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$975.00
Strengths:
the most solid bike i have ever felt. very strong, climbs awesome, descends like a crazed savage beast (or is that me?!)
Weaknesses:
none what-so-ever
Similar Products Used:
pipeline, rm6, fsr (with 6" link kit)
Bike Setup:
2000 Z1 QR20, full XT including discs, d321 rims on hugi/hayes hubs (14g spokes), monkeylite bars, raceface stem, thomson seatpost, 36 lbs.
Bottom Line:
i had a tracer before the bullit. i liked it a lot but the bullit rides so much better. i am even climbing stuff i couldn't with the tracer. it has 6" but doesn't bob all over the place. climbing is a breeze. on the down hill the bike is amazing. it is like riding bigfoot. it is so strong and stable. i have never descended like this before....effortlessly but ripin the s**t out the trail!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
UNABIKER
a Downhiller
from The Wild Kingdom, WI Date Reviewed: August 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Thou Shalt Suffer
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Phat Tire
Strengths:
Very strong, nice and heavy, totaly active suspension, adjustability
Weaknesses:
None - quit crying and get an SRP break-away der. bolt and a 113mm BB spindle!
Similar Products Used:
Nothing "similar"- everything else is garbage compared to this rig.
Bike Setup:
Stratos MX-6, Purple Hayes discs, Tioga/ AC DH wheels,SRAM 9.0, RaceFace DH cranks, stem, HS, Seatpost, KORE Strictly D bars and pedals, Kooka Crank Case bash guard Tioga DH tyrs, Intense tubes, custom "General Lee" decals and a 113mm RF BB!! Total weight-40 lbs.
Bottom Line:
For bashing over rocks, vertical rock slab, ladder brige, log-ride, big-drop, drop-in type DH riding - this is it! Why would you even consider anything else? Not good for nice, safe IMBA-approved XC riding, but if you're into that then you've got other problems. Also great for jumping stairs and loading docks. Bottem line- this sled is EVIL!! I give it 5 burning churches!!:(
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Kelowna, BC Date Reviewed: August 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Red Hot Cherry Bendover
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Solid, plush, easy to ride.
Weaknesses:
Very shiny.
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Joshua, Obed.
Bike Setup:
XL full polished frame, Z3QR20 5" polished fork, Magura Louise front disc/Quicksilver rear, Race Face stuff, XT/XTR.
Bottom Line:
Just went from an Obed to this. To be honest, I don't really notice the weight (32.5 lbs) on the climbs. Middle ring all the way in singletrack. First ride was an 1.5 hour downhill - I was grinning after the first 5 minutes. Just took it on a "real" ride with 45 minutes of steep climbing to start with, and never had to get off and push. Didn't notice any bobbing at all. I was reluctant when I was putting this thing together because I didn't know if I'd like it, or need it, but I can honestly say that I will not be parting with it any time soon. Great bike. The only problem I've had with it was when commuting to work on a sunny day. When I looked down I was almost blinded by the reflection coming off the frame. Oh well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Scullion
a Downhiller
from Surrey Date Reviewed: August 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sidewinder
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
2975
Strengths:
Any one want to buy my Bullit call 1-800 U-B-LUCKY! I love my Bullit, the frame is a beast, and I also like the fact that there is a number of substitutes hat you can change when you buy the bike whole. The bike is so easily chucked around corners. To me I think the bike is a bargain, it seems the bike shound be in a much higher price catogary.
Weaknesses:
The faults I found were: the paint job, I find it shows up scratches too easily. I also found that geting a chain divice to fit the frame, (I don't know if it is the same for a medium or large) but not all divices fit and you have a limited option of what one's you can use due to the chain stay. Where the swing arm attaches to the main frame (pivot) some divices hit this which is a problem.
Similar Products Used:
GT Lobo, Orange Patriot LT, Kona Stab D'lux, Saracen Addition.
Bike Setup:
Red Small Bullit, Pace Monsters, Hope pro 4 pot, Mavic 321's on Hope Bulbs, 24-7 bars and stem, BlackSpire cranks, Roox Roller Coaster chain divice, Tioga 2.3's, FSA Pig headset,
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks arse! If you got the money don't even consider any other bike, this is the one, it suits going up or down-hills very fast. It isn't a heavy bike so pushing (or riding) up hills isn't a chore and doesn't make you feel nakered when you get to the top. I love my bike more than my girlfriend and so when it comes to deciding what to do on Saturday, it's no contest, riding to my girlfriends house wins hands down!
The ride overall is very smooth, this is very much due to the chain stays because the chain hits it very rarely compared to other bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hong
a Downhiller
from Vancouver, B.C., Canada Date Reviewed: July 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
My girlfriend's treasure trail...eeewww! That's gross!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
I really like the color! It goesssss with my tight shortssss. This bike has some solid rear suspension(oximoron)(Ha!), but I think I would like to change the X verts on the front...they busticated! Damn chopsticks! This bike is real fast, real cushy and easy to handle at high downhill speeds. I seem to have problems in the speed department going uphill though...what? Oh! I guess that would be the so called " high speed Quad " pfff! Lazy ass!!! Hayes disc front and rear help slow you down when MOST needed-thanx Hayes...you're grrrrreat! I also like the vetta gel extra large seat cover (cures the roids). But in all serioussness this bike is great, heavy, but remember " terminal velocity "? Heavy is faster going down! Just hope you can handle it----CHOWDER!
Weaknesses:
Like I said the X verts suck! They broke man...in two! Get it man in two ...Manitou! Ha! The weight of this bike is a little heavy, but who is going to ride this thing x- country ,so nevermind!
Similar Products Used:
I used a KDX 250 once. Take out the 2 stroke and there you have it...Santa Cruz Bullit!
Bike Setup:
Hayes brakes (hydrolic), Shimano XTR front and rear derail, , Manitou X verts, mavic cross max disc max, race face crank set and headset, and an Easton carbon fibre DH handle bar. I know there's more I am just sick of typing.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that, well... I love you Bullit!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GREGORY WESTBROOK
a Downhiller
from HOLLYWOOD Date Reviewed: July 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
STILL LOOKING
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
BIKE IS BUILT TO GO,SOLID,FAST AS ****,EATS UP ANYTHING IN ITS WAY,CLIMBS WELL, AS GOOD AS OR BETTER THAN MOST HARDTAILS RIDDEN.HOLDS ITS LINE AND IS VERY FORGIVEN,WILL MAKE YOU GO FOR STUFF YOU WOULD NEVER THINK OF DOING.
Weaknesses:
PUT A LOT OF THOUGHT AND TIME INTO THIS BIKE,WHAT EVERYONE SAYS ABOUT PAINT JOB BEING WEAK IS TRUE,THIS HOWEVER DOES NOT AFFECT BIKES PERFORMANCE.IS A LITTLE ON THE HEAVY SIDE BUT MAKES ON WHAT YOU GET IN RETURN IN BIKES PERFORMANCE.
Similar Products Used:
SEVERAL,KNEW WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR FOUND IT IN THIS BIKE.DOSNT REALLY MATTER.
Bike Setup:
Z1 QR 20,RACE FACE ALL THE WAY,HAYES DISK,SRAM 9.0,WTB MOTO,SUN RYNO LTES.
Bottom Line:
BOTTOM LINE IS THIS BIKE ROCKS!!! ITS THE TED NUGENT OF BIKES.LIKE I SAID PUT ALOT OF TIME IN DECIDEING WHAT TO GET.THIS BIKE CAME OUT ON TOP AFTER TONS OF RESEARCH.THIS BIKE GOES,HAVE TO SAY ITS SCARY HOW FAST IT MAKES YOU WANT TO GO,STILL LEARNIG HOW TO HANDLE,RODE MAMMOTH FIRST DAY I HAD IT, COULD NOT BELEIVE HOW WELL IT GOT ME THRU SKETCHY SECTIONS AND THE CONFIDINCE IT GIVES YOU TO GO FOR WHATEVER.ALSO STARTED RIDING AROUND TOWN DOING STAIRS AND WALL DROPS OR ANYTHING ELSE BIKE DOES NOT LET UP MAKES YOU WANT TO RIDE EVERY THING.RIG CAME IN AT 33.5 PNDS. SET UP BUT RIDES LIKE A MUCH LIGHTER BIKE.WILL WRITE ANOTHER REVEIW AFTER I GET IT WIRED,IF YOUR LOOKING FOR A ALL AROUND FREERIDE DO WHATEVER ONE BIKE FOR EVERTHING CONSIDER THIS BIKE AN OPTION.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Woody
a Downhiller
from Hampshire, England Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Penshurst
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Wicked frame, plushest back end ever, does anything you want it to
Weaknesses:
Creaks a bit
Similar Products Used:
B17
Bike Setup:
Manitou Millennium forks, XT, Race face
Bottom Line:
I'm a lucky man, I snapped up the Millenniums and they really compliment the frame-stiff, plush and sexy looking with the black frame. UK downhills are eaten for breakfast, I plan to take it to the Alps soon. Little heavy for XC work but I have a Klein hardtail for that anyway. BUY ONE. Hell, buy two...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thad Carey
a Weekend Warrior
from Hawley, TX, USA Date Reviewed: April 29, 2000
Manitou X-Vert DC, Hayes discs, WTB tires, Azonic riser bar & stem, Cook Bros. cranks, Mavic/Hugi wheels.
Bottom Line:
There may not be a better freeride bike when all factors are considered. When money is no object, there are some other good candidates too. This bike is quite useable as an all-around bike despite how good it is for the really scary stuff. It is pretty hard to knock it off its line in rough terrain. For a relatively simple design, it really works in just about any situation. I thought this bike would only get used when I was specifically going to ride some really gnarly stuff, but it's a whole lot of fun to ride just about anywhere on anything. I've got mine down to 30.5 lbs. without any really stupid-light stuff on it. If you ride frequently in rough terrain, this is the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frederic
a Downhiller
from San Jose, Ca Date Reviewed: April 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Demo Forest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Simple Design. Beefy, but light tubes. Good geometry. Confident feel. Plush.
Weaknesses:
No break away rear derailer hanger, unlike the super 8.
Bike Setup:
White Brothers UD150 fork, Hayes disk brakes , XTR components.Hayes hubes. Sun rhyno lite wheels. Kujo DH 2.35 tires.
Bottom Line:
Super plush. Stable feel on down hills and jumps. Fast. Good climber on uphills for a bike that weighs as much as this one does. Made the transition from a 23 lb. Zaskar to this. Middle ring it on all my favorite rides. Like to do interval training on it. Actually pass rides on there hard tails much to there suprise. Also looks great. Gets lots of looks. Just remember to wear you body armor with this bike.The speeds you will be going, you'll need it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: April 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
offchurch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Ride position, looks, point and go, takes all the hits and just kicks ass. Will do XC, stop moaning and get fit.
Weaknesses:
Needs bottle mounting position that aint gonna get destroyed when using bike full on. Only thing i could think of, cause the bikes that good.
Similar Products Used:
Marin rock springs, Univega flyte, Scott vertigo
Bike Setup:
Mar CR1, Hope sport discs & hubs, Mavic 321
Bottom Line:
This bike does it all, it aint light, mines about 35lbs, but it still climbs better than any other bike i've ridden, even ones that are alot lighter. Just blasts downhill, handling like a scream, you will ride better. Takes the heavy stuff to, blew away my mates Marin on the Redbull, he's still waiting for em to send him a new rear shock . If youve got the money, get it.......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CRL
a Weekend Warrior
from Anaheim, CA Date Reviewed: April 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Marshall Canyon or Aliso & Woods Cyn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very strong & BEEFY! Great for Downhill. This bike is a bargain compared to Intense, Ellsworth, & others...
Weaknesses:
Stickers look a little lame. A little heavy, but can't complain too much for being such a great downhill bike.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Z.1 QR 20 Fork; Race Face - bars, stem, grips, cranks, bb, headset; XT dr, V Brakes, hubs; Mavic 517 rims; WTB Moto Raptor 2.4 (great tires); Thompson seatpost; WTB saddle; the Front Fender;
Bottom Line:
The bike is so much fun to ride & it is awesome downhill. It is so plush like everyone says. It will make you faster. Climbing is possible, but not as easy as Santa Cruz describes. My bike weighs 31 lbs, and I find it a little difficult on climbing steep technical singletracks - steep fireroads are not that bad.
I have been riding this bike everywhere lately and have not touched my cross country bike. This bike is so much fun to ride! Go out and buy one!!!!!! 5 chilis!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mental
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary Date Reviewed: April 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Woodlot
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Absolutely bombproof, low maintenance, super plush, decent climber, fan-freaking-tastic descender, and just plain fun to ride.
Weaknesses:
Needs a replaceable derailleur hanger and hydraulic cable guides.
Similar Products Used:
STS, FSR, I-Drive, Heckler, RM6, Element etc.
Bike Setup:
BoXXers, hayes, XT, Race Face, D321's, Tioga, WTB, Easton Monkey Lite, Oury's (what else?), Profile Racing, King Headset, and Control Tech Newton stem.
Bottom Line:
This bike excels at everything. I use it for urban, XC'ing, downhilling, biker cross, dirt jumping and even commuting to/from work. It is a blast to ride and the maintenance on the single pivot is a piece of cake. I regularly drop 6 feet onto concrete and she has never complained. She isn't light, but I've gone through the "light is better" school, and still have the scars to prove it (not to mention still paying the Visa bill). In a recent local biker-cross race, the only Bullits entered finished 1&2. I wouldn't trade her for anything, fun to ride, east to keep clean, and oh, so plush.
Get Committed mental
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Weekend Warrior
from woodcliff lake, nj Date Reviewed: April 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
white trail skyline drive
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
plush sweet ride.....
Weaknesses:
went the derailuer hanger pretty bad....as the deraileur was getting pulled it out it stripped the threads....needed to put a heeli-coil in it.........
Similar Products Used:
a few
Bike Setup:
z-1....hayes.....xt kit....24 double wide front
Bottom Line:
needs replacealbe deraileur hanger
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scotty
a
from Edmonton Date Reviewed: March 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
valley of five lakes
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Looks HOT, rides great and can handle anything you can throw at it. Suspension is very very plush. Sketchy downhills are no problem
Weaknesses:
Expensive, but worth every penny.
Similar Products Used:
RM6
Bike Setup:
Z1 QR 20, Race Face Cranks, 646 pedals, hayes disc, Easton Monkey bar, Sun Rhino Lites and a mix of XT and LX components
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike with almost no limits. The only thing that can hold this bike back is the rider. If you want a bike that you can take downtown and do huge wheelie drops onto cement and then go race a DH and then go ride an XC trail on, well this is it. The Bullit is so stable at speed and the suspension is so very plush that DH'ing is a blast. The Bullit can climb surprisingly well for its weight, so if you want to hit your favorite XC trail its no problem. This is true go anywhere do anything bike, and it always challenges you to try that line or take that drop that you walked in the past. Do yourself a favour and get you a$$ on a Bullit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Anderson
a Downhiller
from North Vancouver Date Reviewed: March 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything on Mt. Fromme
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This bike is just plain amazing. The rear shock feels so plush and makes everything feel smooth. This bike lives for huge air. It's very durable and very light for a bike of it's kind.
Weaknesses:
I have yet to find anything to complain about. This bike is perfect in my mind.
Similar Products Used:
Norco VPS-1, Rocky Mountain RM6
Bike Setup:
XTR, Rock Shox Boxxers, Hayes hydraulic discs
Bottom Line:
This bike is amazing. I found nothing wrong with it and I have yet to find a better bike. 10ft air on a Bullit feels more like a curb on a hardtail. The rear shock is so sweet. For durability, you can feel just how tough this bike is when you touch it. Yet it is still very light. All my friends who have ridden one are now getting one for themselves. Anyone who loves flying down the trails and launching big air needs this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from victoria b.c. Date Reviewed: March 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
the launch ramp at hartland
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
good solid 8lb. frame, simple and stiff rear swingarm, ultra reliable fox RC shock(a must for big hit bikes), 8mm bolts used in shock mounts, good tire clearance(roko 2.4" fit fine), sweet, sweet ride!
Weaknesses:
my cable housing, leg armor and shoes wore through the hot red paintjob first ride, so I got framesaver tape. but hey it is only paint. face the headtube to better seat your headset, mine was a little off.
Similar Products Used:
my bro's R.M. Pipeline
Bike Setup:
I'm 5'11" 160lb so i went with a medium, in total the bike weighs 34lb. I built it up with a red THE fender under a QR20 z1 w/disc hub, XT rear disc hub both on welded rino lites and roko tires. the controles are sram 9.0sl shifter and leavers on a raceface riser clamped to a sweet storty stem rotating on a king headset. i went with a comfy berserker ti seat on a controltech post. the drive train starts with 636 pedals on raceface cranks and a blackspire 32tooth ring and ring god spinning a 120mm raceface BB. a sachs chain runs back to an 8speed xtr 12/32 cog set with a 9.0sl rear and an xt front derailleur. last of all i am holding out with my, totaly shot, xt v-brakes for the new xt discs.
Bottom Line:
don't fall victim to anybodies hype, if you plan on dropping up to 4 grand on a bike do some homework and test lots of bikes it's half the fun. i decided on this bike because the frame is beefy design, simplicity, long stroke shock and plush 6" travel. put your money in the frame it's the last thing you will want to have to replace. this bike lets me do everything, especially big air! this is the right tool for the job(just a little hype never hurt)! overall 4 flamin'chilis because nothings perfect!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a Downhiller
from parsippany, nj Date Reviewed: February 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
travel, speed, sprinting ability, beat to hell front triangle
Weaknesses:
rear triangle(swingarm)
Similar Products Used:
dare, 204, straight 6
Bike Setup:
zokes jr t, hayes f&r hydraulic disks, sram/shimano, panaracer/intense tires, bontrager wheel-set
Bottom Line:
sweet cheap downhill/freeride/xc bike, beat it up, throw it around like your girl, it will survive anything, just dont bend your damn swingarm, cause it cant handle crap and it aint got a replaceable deraiuler hanger....buy this bike and dont buy anything else..just switch out the crap irc tires for better ones
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from Tempe, AZ Date Reviewed: February 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
National
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
strong, relatively lightweight
Weaknesses:
swingarm replacement policy and customer service
Bike Setup:
XT, hayes, bomber
Bottom Line:
If you bought a Bullit last year, don't expect to get the "new" swingarm with dimples in it for crank clearance without a hassle. SC said it's $250 for a new one, and you have to send your old swingarm back..yeah like that won't take 3 months to process. I think it's bull that a company of their statue uses customers for product testing. I'm not a business major, but I don't think thats how things should be done. Other than that the bike kicks major butt, you can ride anything. Toally recommend it, but only if you get it with the new swingarm. 5 flaming things for the ride, 1 for the customer service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Pinnick
a Downhiller
from Maidenhead, UK Date Reviewed: February 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wharncliffe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Everything about the frame if flawless, its a work of bike genius. Ive put my review in here as its where every one seems to look, even though mine is a total custom spec. If you get the bike with the right bits I dont see how you could not like it. Mine sucks at uphilling, but thats only because its decked out with loads of heavy stuff like hope biguns and Boxxers, not because the bike sucks. When I do ride up stuff it is pretty cool, Im just not fit enough to keep lugging it all the way. It rocks downhill, just right for the uk. It feels like it has more travel than other bikes with 6 inches, I think because it is very poised, even at high speed, giving the inpression of more travel, even though it doesnt actually have any, and it gets the full 6 in. not 5.5 like some supposed 6 inchers. Build quality is the usual Santa Cruz excellence, and it is much, much burlier than it looks in the photos, this bike is phat.
Weaknesses:
Annoying bend in seat tube limits seatpost adjustablility, but then, without it, the bike would need to be longer to stop the tyre buzzing the seat tube, so hey, is it that important? I think not.
If you havent got one, buy one. If you cant afford one, dont ever try someone elses. Everyone who has ridden my one now either has one, has one on order or is saving for theirs (I kid you not).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred
a Weekend Warrior
from Mission Viejo,CA Date Reviewed: February 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
mojeska trail/the luge
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
climbs like a mountain goat,decends like a freight train.
Weaknesses:
This bike may go faster down hill than riders capabilities can handle.
With proper gearing this bike will climb like a bandit,haul ass down hill. This may be the last freeride scalpel you will ever need. If you have the cash buy a Santa Cruz Bullit. The Bike Company set mine up and it works flawless. It must be ridden to be appreciated.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kendrick Fong
a Downhiller
from Toronto Date Reviewed: January 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything with steep tech. stuff
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Oh baby, too many to mention.
Weaknesses:
None, don't know what Dan's talking about. No squeeks from here?
Similar Products Used:
FSR, Stinky, Heckler, M1
Bike Setup:
XT, Z-1 Drop-off, Maggie yellows, and Berzerker saddle (sweet).
Bottom Line:
I've made it a goal of mine to advertise this bike as much as I can. It has given me so much. This is the type of bike that rewards you every time you sit into the cockpit, the feel is great and ride is excellent. I entered a review near the begining of July when I got it. Nothing has changed since except that the ride has gotten better. I manage to flow a lot better of steep fast courses like St. Anne, it inspires confidence, this is the next best thing to a girlfriend boys! Do yourself a favour and check out this bike. Smooth as butter, sweet as pie. E-mail me if you have any questions, plz.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from Tempe Date Reviewed: January 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
strong, relatively light
Weaknesses:
shifting, creaking
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
good
Bottom Line:
Anyone know why this thing creaks like so badly? It doesn't affect the ride quality, unless you count the annoying squeaking coming from somewhere in the suspension. It is not the BB, as that has been rebuilt, as well as it does it when your not pedaling or even clipped in. It is none of the cable housings, there are only a few ends anyways cause I'm running hyrdo-disc. It is not the brakes, and its not the headset. The frame has been rebuilt and greased several times, to no avail. Anyone else had this problem? Other than that and the 9-speed shifting is the most god-awful thing Shimano has ever sat on the John and thought of....the bike kicks serious butt.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M G
a Racer
from NY Date Reviewed: January 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mt Snow
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Confident descender extremely well-balanced at speeds, cornering, climbing and in the air! motocross-like small enough to throw around not heavy (mine is 29 lbs) climbs well (at least for me) the 9 speed allows you to do EVERYTHING in the big ring(the range is monstrous!) no chainsuck!!!!!(there is no seatstays near the drivetrain!!) strong,solid,low maintencance mono-pivot and its plushhhhhh. Z1 shock is superb This beast makes the RM6 look like a peice of plastic(no joke) No biopace (I stay smooth anyways) great sprinter and is comfortable airborne. I bought it to bring with me to Mt SNow and Plattekill to use when im not XC racing..Now I just ride this thing on the XC trails and the DH trails and I climb up the mountain. I dont buy lift tickets. Once this beast gets going it is way faster than my race hardtail and does not get hung up over obstacles it merely rides over EVERYTHING. My friends who do street riding/gap jumping told me when they saw it; "It's a roof jumping bike". People are talking and yes they are jealous.
Weaknesses:
None, but to do things right i put an SRP breakaway bolt on and got a chrome swingarm(no scratches) and it does have the dimples for crank clearance. No other weaknesses noted as of yet. I dont expect to see any either.
Similar Products Used:
Lobo,Intense M1,Mantra, FSR's Im not impressed at all.
Bike Setup:
Hayes discs, BrooklyMachineWorks stem, AC bar, Raceface cranks, XT der's, 545 shimano spd platforms, Titec Berserkr DH saddle, Yeti hardcore grips(plush), SRAM gripshift 9 speed(no problems just ALOT of range), Thomson post, Specialized Evil Twin DH tires. Camelback Hawg with 100oz of water for epic rides (you wont want to stop riding the Bullit), a walkman with Zeppelin and Metallica tapes( a must so you can drown out all the screaming hikers)lol
Bottom Line:
Beefy and high quality..stable at high speeds low speeds and no speed. Excels on the downhills and is a great platform from which you can crank out some long-ass steep climbs efficiently and seated. Soooooooooo much fun. You can smoke hardtails on your local trails with it and descend with master authority too (its best trait). Excellent Value! Its so forgiving you can make LARGE errors and it will forgive them, thus saving you from disaster. I will re-review in 6 months. Ive had 4 rides on it. Each one was 40 miles in length. I couldnt stop riding it. Up and down. Its the most fun Ive had yet I was hootin' and hollerin' all day long. Granted this is not an XC rig so dont expect that. But if you have good legs, this may be the best time you have ever had!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J
a Downhiller
from Santa Rosa, CA Date Reviewed: January 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything downhill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Superb handling downhill/freeride bike. Light, and great suspension adjustability. Made by Santa Cruz
Weaknesses:
I have found none
Similar Products Used:
Heckler, Super 8
Bike Setup:
Boxxer, Pro Tapers, azonic, Kooka cranks .Fox vanilla RC
Bottom Line:
This is a superb downhill bike. I prefer it over the super 8 for downhill because it is light, and you can float it down the hill, not plow over it(my personal opinion). Excellent bike for freeriding too. I can't wait to race it next season.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron Penn
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth Australia Date Reviewed: December 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Goat Farm
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Big beefy frame Nice travel Best looking bike on the planet
Weaknesses:
9 speed constantly needs adjustment ( sent wrong seatpost and still have'nt been sent the right one )
Similar Products Used:
None similar
Bike Setup:
JR.t , Azonic bar & stem
Bottom Line:
Awesome ride,really smooth over the rough stuff I'll ride over stuff i'd never attempted before.Powder coating is good(all black).Has dimples in swingarm so iv'e had no problems with crank clearance
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PinoyBoy
a Weekend Warrior
from Manila, Philippines Date Reviewed: December 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Montalban Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
I first have to say that I spent my entire savings and I am still paying for the bike... It's kinda hard paying if the exchange rate is forty pesos is to one dollar. All's I can say is that it's worth every damn Peso I paid for (and still paying for...). I'm a freerider at heart so I pretty much abuse the mucho suspension it has to offer, it's staight-forward single pivot suspension keeps maintenance to a minimum. Good for crazy, maniacal S.O.B.'s with nothing better to do in life like me.
Weaknesses:
Only possible ghost shifting after landing a drop of more than two feet, paint job on mine could have been better... other than these minor things, none! and stick to eight speed... I know I will.
If you gotta spend for only one bike that you can literally take to the grave with you, then this is that bike...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Racer
from nj Date Reviewed: December 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
durability, the tubes beefiness, near unbreakable setup, being able to withstand 15 foot drops and still ride like the wind
Weaknesses:
horrible derauileer hanger, oh wait there is none
Similar Products Used:
straight 6, 8, intense m1,
Bike Setup:
xt hayes disk setup, had a z-1 but was p.o.s. now jr t, panaracer dh pro
Bottom Line:
i have to say for what i paid for the bike i got my moneys worth so far even though im still pissed bout bending my hanger, i mean i landed on my dderauiller and it just scratched and the damn hanger bent...few things you should know before buying...if you wanna race or freeride like me...dont get the z-1, it has too much flex to it, go w/ the jr t or their manitou option, you will thank me later
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SHREDMAN
a Weekend Warrior
from TORRANCE CA Date Reviewed: December 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
TO MANY TO LIST
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
THIS BIKE RIPS!!! SUPER PLUSH SUSPENSION FLAT OUT KICKS ASS!!!
Weaknesses:
NONE. MY SWING ARM HAS THE DIMPLES AND I HAVE NO PROBLEMS HITTING IT. OR NO GHOST SHIFTS. TO THE GUY WITH THE SHIFTING PROBLEMS, GET RID OF THE 9SPEED. IT SUCKS REGARDLESS OF WHAT BIKE ITS ON.
FOX R/C COIL, MARZOCCCI Z-1 CR W/5 TRAVEL, MONKEY LITE BARS, AVID V-BRAKES, WORLD CLASS TI B/B (122MM)AND COOKS BROS CRANKS.
Bottom Line:
I LOVE THIS BIKE!!! IT IS TONS OF FUN. IT RIPS ON THE DOWN HILLS AND ACTUALLY CLIMBS AS WELL AS MY LITESPEED. IT DOES EVERYTHING GREAT. MAYBE ITS JUST THE RIGHT SETUP, BUT I HAVE NO PROBLEMS W/BIO-PACING ON THE FLATS OR CLIMBS. I HAVE IT BUILT W/LITE STUFF AND ITS ONLY 25.5 LBS. MINE HAS A BLACK SWING ARM, POLISHED FRAME AND BLACK FORK AND BLUE PANARACER FIRE PRO'S (THEY MATCH THE STICKER ON THE FRAME). ITS BEAUTIFUL, I LOVE IT SO MUCH IT SITS IN MY BED ROOM WHEN ITS NOT BEING RIDDEN.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
william simmons
a Downhiller
from Twyford, Berkshire, England Date Reviewed: December 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything facing downhill
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
It rocks, suspension, paintjob, the looks you get from others in awe of your classy machine
MX6, Vanilla RC, Hope dh 4 pots, three piece cranks
Bottom Line:
i dunno what all the jabronies are complaining about the paint job for it's f*cking fantastic.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Collin
a Downhiller
from Abbotsford, BC Date Reviewed: December 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Crazy Carpenter
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Super strong build, simple suspension design, rides better than a 26lb FSR. Awesome rear shock.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Heckler, RM6, FSR's, pipeline, element t.o.,
Bike Setup:
Boxxer, Race Face NSXS cranks, Hayes discs, XT and XTR others
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks a**. Good value, good ride. Confidence builder. Rides like a light bike and I can't wait to race it in Downhill next year.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Y.Y
a Downhiller
from Singapore Date Reviewed: December 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Downhill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Plushness,long travel and adjustable ride height.
Weaknesses:
Non replaceable derailleur hanger,poor quality paints(colours come off quite easily).Cranks hit the rear swingarm causing terrible scratches. TERRIBLE 9 SPEED!
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Rock shox fork,vanilla rc,xt,xtr,irc tyres,hayes hydraulic disc brakes.
Bottom Line:
The bb length is not compatiable with the frame, it causes headaching scratches on the swingarm. So i hope that santa cruz can make compensation for those early buyers of the bullit as i have heard that santa cruz is redesigning a bullit new rear swingarm with DIMPLES created for clearing the cranks.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Cross-Country Rider
from Dublin, CA Date Reviewed: December 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mammoth Mtn
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good looks, very plush, 6 of travel, low cost for frame, cartridge bearings, no creakes or noises from the suspension, little or no maintanence. Great Fox shock.
Weaknesses:
paint scratches easily, rear swingarm is too wide-can rub with shoes while riding. Crank arms can hit swingarm with XTR cranks. You must choose your bottom bracket length carefully.
Similar Products Used:
Intense DH, Specialized, GT Lobo
Bike Setup:
XTR shifter system, XTR brakes(for lightness), Rock Shox XL, Monkey lite bar
Bottom Line:
A great downhill and sometimes uphill bike (a little freeride also), simple design with little or no maintenance, very reasonable price for the frame, a fun bike to ride in a variety of conditions. A great first year bike for Santa Cruz. Please fix the swing arm.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bullit Owner
a Weekend Warrior
from USA Date Reviewed: December 7, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
inspires speed
Weaknesses:
I'm not riding it right now
Similar Products Used:
none this good
Bike Setup:
Z1 BAM, Hopes, XT
Bottom Line:
JL (below) is correct. I have never bent a hangar, but am running a break-away bolt on my Bullit just for piece-of-mind. Besides, the hangar on the Bullit is very beefy. Just go buy a Bullit, it'll change the way you ride!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
XTR
a Weekend Warrior
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: December 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Plattekill
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush, simple, climbs well, looks good, strong, fox rc, price.
Weaknesses:
No gusset on the top tube, paint, and maybe the der hanger, but I had a heckler and I never bent the hanger on it.
Similar Products Used:
Heckler
Bike Setup:
00 Bullit 99 z1 bam xtr/xt kore b-52 hugi mavic
Bottom Line:
Really good handling frame, and it makes stuff you go over seem like a joke.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Downhiller
from Edinburgh, Scotland Date Reviewed: November 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Innerleithen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Brilliant rear end, great head angle. works extremely well
Weaknesses:
Getting a decent chain device without going for the expense of an MRP
Bike Setup:
MX6,Pro-Tapers,Middleburn cranks,Hammer stem,Renthal grips,Hope pro discs with bigun and bulb hubs, 521CD,DMR pedals,azonic saddle,goldtec chainring
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome bike. If you're in the market for a full sus bike that can rip down hills and go back up them look no further. It works great with 4 forks as well. I just want the new super8 for my assault on the world title!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JL
a Racer
from Norcal Date Reviewed: November 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
technical ones
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Climbs very well considering weight and the amount of rear travel
Weaknesses:
Heavy for a cross-country bike.
Similar Products Used:
Intense Uzzi DH
Bike Setup:
Jr. T, XT, Hayes
Bottom Line:
To the people who whine about paint quality... How long do your mountain bikes stay pretty? And to those who whine about non-replaceable derailleur hangers... Ever heard about break away derailleur fixing bolts? Why weaken the frame when replacing one bolt will spare your frame and your derailleur. This bike rocks the Intense (too many pivots-- needing replacement too often), the Ellsworth (same reason), and anything else in the freeride catagory that i've seen.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross-Country Rider
from Westchester,N.Y. Date Reviewed: November 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Blue mountian
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Built like a brick shithouse,Adjustable head angle,1 pivot, agile for a freeride,shock options
Weaknesses:
Heavy, for a weight wennie like myself. I hit my ankles on the swingarm ever ride. Cheesey stickers
Bike Setup:
full hopes, z-1 bam, full xtr, flite,thompson,azonic bar, ac stem,fox air shock
Bottom Line:
This is my 6th mountian bike in 7 years. (2 Kona Hot, Gt LTS,Ellsworth Truth,Intense Tracer). I love that all I haft to do after a 3 hour hammer fest is clean it.Not chase some Fu*@ing squeak coming from the bushings!!!!!! It halls balls down hill,and with the Hopes, I only need 1 finger to stop it from speed. I went to a ski resort with it and smoked everyone. It wasn't funny for them. I wasn't even tired. It climbs ok for a pork belly and consider it good for training. I get on to my Intense and go ever faster up hills now. Its so cheap price wise!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Parry
a Weekend Warrior
from Exeter, CA Date Reviewed: November 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Steep and technical
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Super plush, blazes on the downhills, well balanced, minimal bob once set right
Weaknesses:
Poor paint (luckily I got a polished rear triangle), not set up to run hydraulic cables, not the best climber (of course), though not bad if you stay in the saddle
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager (bobs all over)
Bike Setup:
Trans blue with polished rear triangle and polished Z1 Bam fork, XTR (crank works as my stays are indented), Hayes discs, Mavic rims, King Disc Go Tech Hubs, IRC Back Country tires, Control Tech stem, LP Composites bar and post
Bottom Line:
This bike is a ton of fun. It slogs a bit up hills due to its weight and full suspension, but the downhills are such a blast who cares? Though Marzocchi says run their fork with 1/2 inch of sag, I find the bike holds downhill lines better with an inch of sag in the front with the stem length I run. Jumps well, well balanced. Ride it!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort St. John Date Reviewed: October 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
delta house
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The bike just kicks ass.
Weaknesses:
None that I found
Similar Products Used:
K2 Animal, Cove G-Spot Rockymountain Pipeline, Santa Cruz Heckler
Every time I get on this bike I just go bigger and faster. I can ride the sickest trails with ease..... But enough of this typing, I'm going riding
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Braaaaap!
a Downhiller
from Burlington, VT Date Reviewed: October 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
going down!!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Six plush inches, climbs extremely well, rear shock, price, and KILLER LOOKS
Weaknesses:
no replaceable der. hanger, braze-ons won't accomodate hydro line
Similar Products Used:
None, I knew what I wanted!
Bike Setup:
Z1 Bam, XT, 636's, Thomson, Race Face stem, Hope Pros, King Discotech.
Bottom Line:
Once you've ridden long travel, you'll never go back! This bike can DH with the best of them and still climb hills. As long as you stay seated, the suspension almost locks out when climbing, eliminating the pogo found on most long travel bikes. Its like having your cake and eating it too. The bike screams downhill, launches out of corners, and jumps like a motocross bike. I literally just steer around the trees now, and the Bullit takes care of the rest! All this for only 30 lbs, KICKASS!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ty Johnson
a Cross-Country Rider
from denver, co Date Reviewed: October 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
golden gate canyon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
sweet looking very tight up and downhill great trail bike
Weaknesses:
though great for technical climbing, slow on long flat uphills like fire-roads
Similar Products Used:
uzzi sl, heckler, cannondale sv1000, kona stinky and stinky deluxe, super 8
Bike Setup:
xt setup, hayes disc, z1 bam, raceface stem, easton monkeylite bar, thomson seatpost, flite saddle, 545's, orange and polished paint job to match fork baby
Bottom Line:
Super nice travel. even with six inches it still climbs like a beast. quick and oh so nimble. jumps w/ the best of 'em. it's bad to the bone. by far the most fun i've ever had riding. i wish i could give it more than just five of them flamin' chili thingies
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J. Frucci
a Racer
from Kalamazoo, MI Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
a 7' to 8' version would be cool, if you tweak the hanger - plan on a getting a new rear end for $300
Similar Products Used:
Lobo, Uzzi SL, Super 8,
Bike Setup:
Boxxer, Hayes, Mavi 321's, Race Face, XTR
Bottom Line:
Like a sore weiner...you just can't beat it. The best bike for the price, but it's still not an Intense. Handles extreme DH terrain and keeps up with the big dogs if your a decent rider. Dial in the rear supension with about 3/4 of sag and the rear wheel will stay on the ground like its glued.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Allen
a Weekend Warrior
from Wakefield Mass Date Reviewed: October 4, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
good geometry for free-riding / COST
Weaknesses:
no replacable derailer hanger, low end paint job, unusual seat post size (minor issues for price of frame)
Just returned from Moab - This bike rules (even @ 44 lbs) it climbed well & ROCKED everywhere else. Just point and go - don't worry about a line, if you can handle it this bike will be right there for you - As far as cranks are concerned BUY PROFILES bottom line - And yes who ever answers the phones needs a pesonality make-over but @ the price you can get these at I guess they have to make short-cuts.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Wells
a Downhiller
from Schroon Lake Date Reviewed: October 4, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the stables
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Adjustabiliy, plush, bullet proof, beefy
Weaknesses:
paint, non-replacable der hanger, Minor things
Similar Products Used:
mongoose 9.7, foes dh slammer, supper 8
Bike Setup:
white bros. ud150
Bottom Line:
This bike rules! My first time on it i felt right at home, Ive been off this year,riding wise. And this bike put right back were i needed to be. Its fast, nimble and jumps like kangaroo. You cant go wrong with this rig. Just put ski-saver on the frame were anything can rub.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Preston
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Date Reviewed: September 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
graveyarddownhill
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Awesome feel/control, (feels like my old motocross)plush ride yet very tight and responsive and feels substantial. bombs downhill and feels invincibly strong yet climbs great even standing on the pedals in grannyfirst feels like the rear tire is pulled into the ground and no pedal bob
Weaknesses:
none yet
Bike Setup:
Z-1 Bam, 2.35 front and rear tires on RhinoLite rims, xtbrakes and deraileurs,blackspire crankset,raceface,Time Atac aluminum pedals, modified supersaddle,matching Kawasaki Green 'the' front fender (cool)
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! It is just pure fun. I just want to bomb all over the place on it. It feels like I'm integrated with the bike even though I use a modified super saddle.I'll send in another review after more extensive riding, (if I ever get off it long enough)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Koby
a Weekend Warrior
from Manchester, NH Date Reviewed: September 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Snow
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Nice welds, lightweight, FAT tubing, six plush inches, affordable
Weaknesses:
???
Similar Products Used:
DBR X10, Mongoose NX 9.7
Bike Setup:
Z1 BAM, XT drivetrain, (Hope hydros and Spin Eons soon to come)
Bottom Line:
I just built the bike and have not ridden it enough to comment much on its ride qualities, however, I am very happy with the frame so far. My frame came with the dimples in the swingarm to allow for crank clearance. Santa Cruz recommended that a 110 bottom bracket be used with XT cranks. The cranks did clear, but it was still too close for me. So I installed a 113, and it is perfect. Overall, the bike feels very balanced, the Z1 Bam is a perfect mate (any less than 5 would not do this frame justice), and it is relatively lightweight. I will review again after a few sessions.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ben
a Weekend Warrior
from clayton, ca Date Reviewed: September 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
widowmaker
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
6 travel, very plush , look .
Weaknesses:
if you dont have the rear swingarm with the dents for crank clearance your crank arm will most likely hit.
Similar Products Used:
kona stinky, pipeline
Bike Setup:
99' ud 150 , magura gustav disc , raceface crank & stem
Bottom Line:
this bike bombs down hill very well. but if you do not get the frame with the dents in the swingarm you could have some troubles.i called santacruz about this and they were total jerks about the the problem.they wanted me to send the frame with the bb $ cranks to them to see what the problem was. i told them they shouldnt be product testing still. i dont think i will buy another santacruz. great bike , crap customes service!!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Racer
from new holland, CT Date Reviewed: September 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything fast
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great frame
Weaknesses:
paint is not good
Bike Setup:
Xvert carbon, 9.0sl, hayes, mrp, raceface
Bottom Line:
great ride, sweet dh rig, but the PAINT is not good!!! it wore off and the welds and on the rear end very, very fast....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Coley
a Downhiller
from Tempe, AZ Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
National (going down)
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
fast, rides lighter than it weighs, hit anything as hard as you want
Weaknesses:
not a thing
Similar Products Used:
AMP B-3, Jamis Dakar
Bike Setup:
Kawasaki green, Bomber Z.1 QR20, Hayes hyrdo disc/Hugi hubs, Race Face stem/cranks/bar, IRC tires, Grip Shift
Bottom Line:
This absolutely rocks. The guys at Rage were awesome and built it exactly to what I wanted. You can ride whatever you want, whenever you want, and however you want. It soaks up everything, and says give me more. As far as climbing goes, don't complain about cause it wasn't built for that. If you complain about the weight (32 lbs my set up) then you need to stay off the mountain and get out of my way, cause I will run you down like a rabid dog on the way down. My one minor complaint, and this is with the fork is being about to mount the bike in my truck, because of the 20mm axle design, the fork dropouts wil not fit in a standard drop out mount. Anyone have any suggestions?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cali
a Downhiller
from Berkeley Date Reviewed: July 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Side O
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Butter smooth and climbs like a champ.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Never rode anything similar.
Bike Setup:
JR T,Race face,521,Chris King,Thompson
Bottom Line:
This bike lets me take so many different lines. And any free time i have iam hauling down trails serving this toy. I just can't stay off it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron Guthrie
a Downhiller
from Abbotsford Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything with big drops
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
plush, plush, plush quality craftsmenship 6 is the magic number
Weaknesses:
I have to go to work and wait 8 hours to ride it again
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Pipeline
Bike Setup:
Z-1 bam, Hayes Hydro disc, mix of LX and XT
Bottom Line:
This bike awesome, the first time I rode it downhill I started to laugh out loud at how easy the bike makes the trail. That line you never rode, ride it...that drop you never tried, try it. This bike will soak it all up and be hungry for more. P.S. that guy from Toronto paid too much for his frame
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Ligonier, PA Date Reviewed: July 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush & fast
Weaknesses:
fat rear swingarm - hard for some to find correct bottom bracket / crank combo
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Truth Haro Extreme
Bike Setup:
Zochi Z1 bam, fox air shock, Sram 9.0 SL, raceface cranks & rings, magura frog hydro brakes, mavic rims w/king hubs, king headset, dean stem, easton carbon seatpost & easton carbon riser bars, Time carbon Atac pedals
Bottom Line:
Absolutely the most fun I've had on a bike. Plenty of travel (5 in front 5 in back) I'm cleaning tough sections that I never came close to riding before. This bike wieghs in at under 28lbs!!! Long climbs are as easy as my hardtail with the rear lockout. Happy I bought it!!! p.s. you should be able to see my bike soon in the customer bike section at speedgoat's website - no direct plug intended, but my bike built up really cool
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Redwood city Date Reviewed: July 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
stiff, plush plush plush, made in the USA
Weaknesses:
no replacable drop out. can not run XTR cranks.
Bike Setup:
Hanebrink Z-6 (dope) xtr, king, run rhino lites, race face riser,xt v's
Bottom Line:
Santa Cruz needs to mention to their buyers that you can not run XTR cranks. The crank arm hits the swing arm. They said they are designing a new swing arm with a little dent in it to allow the crank arm to clear. Other than that the bike is sooo smoooth.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a Weekend Warrior
from Rancho Santa Margarita CA. Date Reviewed: July 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Rock It
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
6” of very functional suspension. Size of frame I’m 6’.4” tall and the XL fits great. Craftsmanship and Quality of the frame.
Weaknesses:
No replaceable derailleur hanger
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Jr T./Race Face Cranks, BB, Headset,XY Post/Shimano XT/Hayes Disk Brakes/ Mavic 521D/Hugi Hubs/Azonic Shorty 100mm/Answer Pro Taper Bars/
Bottom Line:
This bike is a BLAST!!!! I ride at least 5 days a week 10-15 mile each. The bullit dose it all except win XC races. It climbs slowly with with out killing you. Handles flat areas with relatively no bobbing. And it sure as HELL bombs down hills. Plain and simple this bike is just a hole lot of fun to ride. Check it out on my web site at http://members.home.net/ratfink P.S. They need to add another category in what cyclest best discribes you. FUN!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Weekend Warrior
from redwood ctiy Date Reviewed: July 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
beautiful
Similar Products Used:
mongoose
Bike Setup:
Z-6 Hanebrink, xtr hubs cranks shifters, rhino lites, king head set, sycros seat post
Bottom Line:
just got the frame today. looks awesome. stoked!!!!!!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
patrick
a Downhiller
from san fran,ca Date Reviewed: July 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Purisima/China Camp
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
SMUV-Smooth. Shocks are awesome, turning is incredible, extremely stable at high speed in rough terrain.
Weaknesses:
Had some problems with the XT bottom bracket not being long enough which caused the right crank arm to hit the rear frame swingarm. Make sure you install this correctly. Luckily a really cool shop was able to get the right mix of spacers and bottom bracket to make this work.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mtn Pipeline
Bike Setup:
Z1 fork, XT gruppo
Bottom Line:
I got the Lime green and can't stay off the bike. It's is awesome on trails, uphills but you'll smoke most downhillers.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ameet
a Racer
from norwich, ct Date Reviewed: July 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything fast
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
weight, plush travel
Weaknesses:
none yet
Bike Setup:
x-vert carbon, 9.0sl, hayes discs
Bottom Line:
great bike....fast, plush, turns on a dime, no bob
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kendrick Fong
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: July 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Beautiful frame, 6 of plush plush travel, turns on a dime, 12 different colours and combos, rear shock found on most downhill rigs, indestructable frame, cheap price for a quality bike. Try and find a better buy, I dare you!!
Weaknesses:
These frames are in high demand, if you want one you gotta order it now!
Similar Products Used:
FSR, Stinky, Heckler
Bike Setup:
Mostly XT, Z1 drop-off
Bottom Line:
Words can't describe a bike like this. One ride and you'll see and feel the quality built into every frame. Santa Cruz has recently gotten into the FS business and every bike they make are hot items. The Bullit is basically a toned down Super 8. It hooks up well in corners and keeps its speed. When riding this bike, you gotta go into corners and technical sections a little faster than normal. One thing I was surprised about was the weight. At 33lbs (set up my way) it's damn light considering what the bike was designed for. If you want an extreme free ride bike, or a cheap downhill rig, this is definityly the bike for you. At $1999 Can. for the frame and rear shock, you can't go wrong. If you are looking for a bike, do yourself a favour and demo this; that is if you can find one!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Genrail
a Downhiller
from canada Date Reviewed: May 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
turns on a dime, shocks up the bumps.Turns on the speed.
Weaknesses:
Not a bike made for climes.
Similar Products Used:
teck dh pro, gaint dh, marin wild cat
Bottom Line:
This bike is made for proforments.it hold more then it's own on the hill. The frount and back suppenion shoockes up the bumps,and holds to the train at hig speeds. When it comes to the quike turns, it holds on. So if you like to go fast and hit the bumps, this bke is awesome.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry G
a Weekend Warrior
from San Mateo, CA Date Reviewed: April 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs, Flume
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Looks Really Cool ! Really adjustable
Weaknesses:
N/A
Similar Products Used:
I own a Heckler Superlight (and I love it)
Bike Setup:
As described below
Bottom Line:
I have never ridden this bike, however I did see it first hand and it looks like it's going to be another winner from Santa Cruz. I first saw it at the SC workshop when I was sent there to pickup my superlight frame. The guys had just finished building it for the Vegas bike show. I touched it and felt it (I got wood !!) The guys told me it was at about 29 lbs. as set up with XT, Hayes disc's, Z1 Bam, and a Fox air vanilla RC. Not bad for a bike with 6 of travel. I know that it could be brought down to 25 lbs. Any ways it is featured in the May '99 Mountain Bike Action magazine. (spec. are different than what I saw) Could this be the first long travel XC racer ? or lightweight freeride bike ? All I know is that Santa Cruz has another winner on thier hands. Lets just hope they are not as difficult to get as the superlight is.....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Lombard
a
from NorCal Date Reviewed: November 1, 1998
Bottom Line:
Wow, what to say— I've never ridden a bike with over 4 inches of rear travel that felt like this. It's a bike that can actually climb well! And it has six inches of rear travel! The one that I rode was Rob Roskopp's (partner of SC's) built with XT, 'Zokes Z1 and dual Hayes discs. It weighed in at just a hair under 30 lbs. in the Large frame size (19). Aside from the handling being great, with the right amount of sag, the wheels just stayed dug in, whether the trail up or down. The fun factor was high. Do your self a favor though, if you're not shopping for a bike right now (like me) don't ride it. You'll be miserable for quite some time. Budget hint: Santa Cruz Bullit makes a great downhiller with a set of Marzocchi Mr. T's and Hayes discs!!!
Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$ 2650.00
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
