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Submitted by
Gavin Nettle
a Cross Country Rider
from East Sussex, UK
Date Reviewed: October 26, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | South Downs | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | It's sooo plush, light (I think) although I've not weighed it, it just seems like it! | | Weaknesses: | None, I'm sitting here looking at it and I can't think of anything, bit more mud clearance on chainstays maybe. | | Similar Products Used: | Old ridgid Specailized and Kona, and Marin FRS | | Bike Setup: | 2000/2001 Heckler (sorry but I prefer the older one, looks more like a 'proper' bike), Bomber Z1 Bam, Fox coil rear shock, Deore group, D521 rims with VelociRaptor, Titec bits and V's | | Bottom Line: | Always wanted one of these but too expensive, always got great reviews so when one came up ebay at a reasonable price I jumped at the chance! Had a Marin 1997 FRS which was great but wanted a bit more travel and kudos :0) It's just so good, goes where I point it, doesn't matter what's in the way and goes up as well as goes down - I've just gone out on my rigid bike and got bounced off my line all over the place and feel beat up, it even seemed harder to get up those hills! Really made me appreciate the Heckler. Could even go lighter on this as it's got a few heavy downhill bits. Everyone should have one of these in their MTBing lifetime, get one if you can. Very rarely see one in my area though? Just writing this makes me wanna go out on it now, so I'm off! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
the h3ckl3r
a Cross Country Rider
from whatcom county
Date Reviewed: March 3, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | anything local | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | reeds, san jose | | Strengths: | i've had this bike 8-9 years now and it is still running strong! | | Weaknesses: | no disc breaks so mud builds up at forks and in rear stopping bike. the *only* problem i've had!!! | | Bike Setup: | Z1 bomber up front, chris king headset, hubs, XTR, rock shox coupe deluxe rear shock | | Bottom Line: | This bike *did* weigh in at about 23.5 or 24 pounds when i got it. would never trade it for another bike!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Wadsworth
a Cross Country Rider
from Yorkshire,UK
Date Reviewed: August 31, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Indian Fire Trail, Marin County | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Strengths: | Superbly plush travel, no bobbing, tight back end, climbs really well, timeless design, look at how many other companies have copied the pivot position! If I wanted to buy this sort of quality now i'd have to pay a fortune and i'd still struggle to get anything better! | | Weaknesses: | No rear disc brake mount, no replacable rear mech hanger (but strong enough anyway) | | Similar Products Used: | GT RTS/LTSs & I Drives, Marin Mount Visions, Rocky Mountains, Mountain Cycles | | Bike Setup: | Currently using Rockshox forks (but have used Marzocchi, Rockshox & White Brothers as well!) Chris King, Flite, Hope XC4s, Hope XC on Mavic X317s, mostly XTR transmission, Syncros finishing kit. | | Bottom Line: | Been into mountain biking for a few years, worked in a cycle shop & seen most of what there was to see in the hardtail world (Klein's, top end Kona's and Marin's etc.) Only full susser I'd contemplate was a San An but stupid money so stuck to what I knew!
A guy comes into the shop one day and he's flogging a Heckler as a frame only, although it looked DH it was light enough to use XC. I was sceptical but figured I could sell it on for what I paid for it if I didn't like it. This was in '98 and he was selling it at half the UK RRP (frames were £960, I paid £500!) Built it up with the kit off my old bike and never looked back!
I've owned numerous other bikes whilst owning the Cruz but they all seem to get sold on while the Cruz still remains. Could be because this bike is fast and incredibly rewarding to ride, or that whatever you throw at it it seems to take in its stride and come back begging for more, or perhaps it is the fact that all day rides just don't seem to be long enough when you are on a Cruz, or maybe its just that because of all the bikes I have ridden this is the best all rounder ever!!!
Best way to sum it up is the old bike shop selling phrase "You know you want one!"
ANECDOTE
I'm XC at heart but can jump a bit and pull a few tricks. Being an XC head I used to be obsessed by weight.
In my heyday I raced my Cruz in a couple of XC races and one incident in my first race on my Cruz made me realise how good this bike is and how wrong I could be thinking lightweight hardtail is the 'be all and end all'.
This may sound boring but if you are in any doubt about hardtail v full sus listen up! After riding hardtails in the first three races I entered and doing reasonably well I spent many an hour deliberating whether it was worth carrying the extra weight of full sus in an XC race to see if I could place any higher. I bit the bullet and took my new Cruz. On the downhill sections I knew I had more confidence to go faster than the HT boys but it was the uphills that concerned me and the extra weight of full sus.
Imagine how satisfying it was on the last lap to approach a line of about 7 hardtail riders taking the smoother left side of the trail (which I would have normally joined the back of on a hardtail) and then nailing it past them on the rougher right side of the trail without thinking twice about it! I still remember the looks on their faces as I glanced over my shoulder and dissappeared over the top of the hill to my first top 10 place, what a grin!
And thats what this bike is all about, maximum grin factor!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rocket rod
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | 2nd hand | | Strengths: | simple, light, strong and timeless | | Weaknesses: | not made like this anymore | | Similar Products Used: | superlight, bullit, chameleon, FSR, KHS, avanti | | Bike Setup: | lotsa nice bits. | | Bottom Line: | the best bike I have ever owned/ridden. despite efforts to find a better bike i can't. i keep coming back to this bike, upgrading the parts and just go riding or racing. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed W.
a
from Corvallis, Oregon, USA
Date Reviewed: June 20, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Steep and Deep | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | MTBR.com | | Strengths: | Simple design, stout frame, bearings are tucked away inside the swingarm (less like to be contaminated); new and used aftermarket shocks are easy to find; frame can be set up "light" for xc or more robust for all around trail riding/fr. When rear shock is dialed, this thing feels fast. Bike feels "springy", and likes to jump - every root or small rock becomes a launch pad. | | Weaknesses: | Short head tube - if you cut your fork steerer to fit this bike, it may not fit other frames that are a similar size. XC frame geometry - quick steering with a 3" fork, much more stable with 4". Also, 26.8 seatpost - not ideal if you bend posts often. If the rear shock is set up nice and plush, the bike feels a little sluggish. Rear shock eyelet seems to wear quickly. Rear end is a little flexy side-to-side when navigating rock gardens. | | Similar Products Used: | Various hartails - this Heckler was my first full boinger. | | Bike Setup: | 1996 medium frame, misc. xt parts, z1-xfly air fork, Cane Creek AD-12 air shock, disc brakes front and back (see below), strong wheels and WTB Weirwolf tires. About 29/30 pounds. | | Bottom Line: | 1996 Heckler, first year Hecklers were made, and it is still perfectly capable today. While single-pivot designs may have their disadvantages on paper, I just ride the thing and enjoy. Pedal kickback - yes. Brake jacking - yes. However, it truly is a simple, versatile bike. I have this bike setup with coil/coil and air/air shocks front and rear, and it can handle everything from epic xc rides to 4-5' drops at the local stunt trails. The stock Rock Shox is not that bad, but it lacks compression adjustments, and I don't think it utilies all of the bike's travel. I switched to a Cane creek AD-12. The air shock is about 1/2 pound lighter, is infinitely adjustable, and is buttery smooth, and has proven very reliable/versatile. I don't believe a lockout is necessary - once compression and rebound are dialed in properly for the trail conditions, the bike climbs with little noticable bobbing/pedal feedback. Others like the Fox shocks (I havn't ridden one).
Disc brakes - you CAN install a rear disc on the Hecklers made before rear disc tabs were the norm. Buy an adapter made by Specialized for their earlier FSR bikes. It will require drilling one small hole in the rear dropout, but will then bolt on and work great using a standard hub and mounting parts. Email me for pictures - it works! Overall, a great bike. However, the Superlight is lighter and stiffer (plus has actual rear disc tabs).
Who should buy this - someone who wants a simple, versatile bike that can ride just about anywhere depending on how you build it up. Who shouldn't - if you are used to a 4-bar type bike, or if a little flex in the rear end is a problem. A great "workingman's" ride. Overall rating 3 because it is an older design without some modern ammenities. Good value for a used ike, but the new 5" Heckler is a much better investment. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia, PA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 3, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | on ebay | | Strengths: | Build quality, climbing, simplicity | | Weaknesses: | shortish wheelbase in medium, a bit heavy, chintzy chainrings | | Bike Setup: | XT, Chris King, RS Super Deluxe, Judy XC long travel, Race Face cranks | | Bottom Line: | Medium frame fits me well (I'm 5'11", 155 lbs, the large frame is too stretched out for me) but I find the wheelbase a bit short for high speed descending. Rear is pretty plush with coil-over. For some reason, this design makes for a great climbing bike. This frame's a bit heavy compared to the Superlight but then again it ought to last forever. One problem is that the front shock mount oxidized to the shaft, a common problem the folks at S.C. told me. BTW, Santa Cruz customer service is AWESOME...five stars for them alone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thanh Nguyen
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, Ca USA
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Grant Ranch Park | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | This bike is the best so far no problem, (Except for the rear, no disk brakes mounts. Got to have those. Other than that the bike is the best 4.5 inches of travel in the rear and 5 in the front makes this bike fly through any obstacle.
| | Weaknesses: | NO DISK BRAKE MOUNT ON THE REAR> | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | 20 inch frame, Rock Shox XL, Super Deluxe Rear, XT all around, Rock Shox Disk up front. | | Bottom Line: | its the best | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Watt
a Downhiller
from England
Date Reviewed: February 7, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Woburn Dirt Jumps | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Put some Z1's on - it jumps really well and sprints like a demon. Great for dirt jumping and dual slalom but limited on 'proper' DH courses. Good for some UK courses though. Tough and well made. Neat welds and hassle free suspension design. | | Weaknesses: | rear wheel clearence could be better, replacable rear mech and your not supposed to run triple clamps on them, but these are only minor gripes. | | Similar Products Used: | Scott FX1, Stab, Marin B17 | | Bike Setup: | King, Mavic, Hope, Z1, Azonic, XT | | Bottom Line: | A great all-rounder xc/ds/dh - choose the setup for your type of riding! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randy
a Weekend Warrior
from Walnut Creek
Date Reviewed: December 26, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Mckenzie River Trail | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Simple, strong and resistant to flex in any dimension, flat out works and has made me a much improved rider. Very neutral handling with a Z-1 up front and doesn't suprise me on cross country/technical single tracks. Climbs as well as anything I have been on, and when in middle or big ring no suspension effects at all. Had a couple of minor maintenance problems that involved the rear shock bushings (the aluminum spacers) and theinternal bronze shock bushing that I finally got sorted out and the bike is back to being awesome again. One tough machine. | | Weaknesses: |
Rear shock bushings wore out and were tough to find, wierd rear derailleur cable route that interferes with water bottle cages otherwise no complaints at all | | Similar Products Used: |
FSR, Y-22, McMahon, Cannondale, etc. | | Bike Setup: |
XTR, Race Face cranks, Mavic 517 wheels, Velociraptor tires, Zokes Z1 Bam, King headset. | | Bottom Line: | Bought the frame used off of the net and haven't regretted the purchase and build up at any time. Would do the same again and have recommended to friends that now love 'em. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from North Bay ON
Date Reviewed: October 11, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
walder creek | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
seems solid,
great climber,
less bob than a 4-bar linkage | | Weaknesses: |
no replacable der. hanger,
difficult to work on frt der.,
rear der. cable clogs easily with mud | | Similar Products Used: |
kona stinky
Spec. FSR | | Bike Setup: |
Z1, XT, Maguras | | Bottom Line: | I am really enjoying my bike.I would definitely recommend it for people making the transition from hard tail. Less bob from susp. than many others.
Great climber once you get it figured out. Much faster than my hardtail when climbing rough sections as traction is much better. Obviously much faster than my hardtail on rough sections and down hill. Really fun to ride and has not broken yet, unlike everything else I touch.
Bad news is the Vanilla R lasted only a month- all that is working now is the spring. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jame
a Cross-Country Rider
from Portland
Date Reviewed: August 29, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Pivot design | | Bottom Line: | Great handling power transfer around turns. Climbs and xc races like the champianship Marin Mt. Vision, which is known for the world best full suspension rear pivot design. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary
a Cross-Country Rider
from Cardiff, Wales
Date Reviewed: July 16, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Machen Run, South Wales | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Design that works
Strength
Long life
Low maintenance | | Weaknesses: |
Should have a replacable rear hanger at this price
Uses non metric nuts on the main pivot axle | | Similar Products Used: |
Marin Mount Vision Pro
Klein Mantra Pro | | Bike Setup: |
Medium with Z1 standard springs, RockShox Coupe Deluxe with 350lb spring, all XT | | Bottom Line: | I have ridden my Heckler hard and frequently for the last year and I still cannot find fault with it. It has needed no maintenance after many wet and muddy rides and the pivots are like new, meaning there is no play or sound from them. The powder coat paint still looks like new and the tubes seem resilient to dents. The lack of replaceable hanger is poor for a frame of this quality but a break-off bolt adds some relief.
The 110mm travel of my Marzocchi Z1’s are a perfect match for the rear suspension. I originally built it up with some Manitou SX forks with 65mm of measurable travel and this never felt right. I chose the RockShox rear shock over the standard Fox because at the time there was no local facility to service Fox shocks. My local shop serviced it overnight for £25 after 7 months. The standard 300lb spring was too soft for me so I upgraded to a 350 spring.
I get fed up reading magazine articles that criticise this frame (as well as others) for too much pedal induced bob when climbing and also brake lockup. Pedal induced bobbing is not an issue at all, remember that front suspension was always criticised for too much movement when climbing, this criticism has gone away. I have never experienced any rear lock out when using the rear brake. Again this is not an issue, as the rear suspension appears to give loads of absorption with the rear wheel locked up. I would race this bike if I was still racing confident in the knowledge that the extra 2 lbs of weight over a hard tail would be insignificant to the gains made on the rough and downhill sections.
The bike climbs very well indeed meaning that there is definitely more grip available when powering over rough stuff. Another benefit is that when riding through mud I can get through places that I know would previously have stopped me on my various hardtails – you just keep spinning and moving. I don’t notice much bobbing when climbing and I certainly don’t find it a problem. I can climb further and harder climbs than on any previous bike. I definitely feel less beaten up on this frame than on previous bikes. I have tried a Klein Mantra Pro and was stunned to find that it climbed better the Heckler, in fact better than any bike, but have since put this down to the 25lbMantra’s light weight, sum of the light parts but most significantly the Bontrager Race Lite wheels.
The descending on the Heckler is superb and I am amazed sometimes at what it can ride over. It always remains balanced and feels right. When I bought the frame, I had a fear that better designs would come along and I would regret my purchase. This has not happened and I don’t think it will. The suspension design and pivot placement is spot on and should be considered a classic. It is interesting to see Marin, K2, Orange, Trek and many others all using the same design. This is because it works, period.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jools
a Cross-Country Rider
from London
Date Reviewed: June 10, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
French alps (all over) | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Everything | | Weaknesses: |
Nothing
Weight??? | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialised stumpy
Marin Mt vision | | Bike Setup: |
Pace evo IIs
XT/XTR
517s X lite
Raceface | | Bottom Line: | Build fit and finish excellent, comfortable, fast and easy to ride I've been doing stuff I thought I couldn't. As much fun as I've had on a bike.
Worth every penny.
15/10 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
m. galloway
a Cross-Country Rider
from greenville, s.c.
Date Reviewed: May 28, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Quality built frame, simple effective design, maintenance free, bullit proof | | Weaknesses: |
None found yet, no replacable derailleur hanger but very thick drop out. | | Similar Products Used: |
Schwinn Homegrown, GT LTS. | | Bike Setup: |
Santa Cruz Heckler with Marzocchi Jr T, Cane Creek AD-10, XTR/Mavic 517CD wheels, XT and XTR components. V-brakes. | | Bottom Line: | Ordered the frame and built it up myself. Very impressed with the frame quality and options Santa Cruz offers. Was a little hesitant putting the Jr. T fork on because of the weight, but everything is a trade off and I have no regrets. Super plush fork and if it is as trouble free as everyone say's it is then I'll be one happy SOB. I chose the Cane Creek AD-10 over the Fox rear shocks because of the adjustability and the weight savings, this was not a mistake, rider friendly and fantastic ride plus great warranty. With 5 of travel up front and 4.25 in the rear I was concerned that I might have more of a downhill bike vs. a cross country bike but I believe I've got a good balance. I am extremely pleased with this setup, I feel like there is no drop off to deep or jump to steep for me to hammer over, In fact I go down and over technical stuff that some of the expert/trials riders can't go over now. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dr. Diablo
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
poison spider | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
price, quality, travel | | Weaknesses: |
Suspension lock-up at times | | Similar Products Used: |
GT LTS-1, Cannondale SuperV | | Bike Setup: |
Santa Cruz Heckler w/ Z1 BAM | | Bottom Line: | Best bike I have ever owned or rode. Flat out flies downhill and is an easy ride uphill as well. Suspension is well balanced with the Z1 BAM and FOX rear. The whole package is fairly light(27 lbs) even with a mixture of XT and light aftermarket goodies.To those naysayers complaining about suspension lock-up during downhill braking-hang yer ass back, ease up on the rear brake and use more of the front brake, DUH! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Will Shippee
a downhiller
from Saratoga, CA
Date Reviewed: February 4, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I am a 15 year old downhill racer who just got his heckler from his local dealer. It is tricked out with XT parts, superdelux in the rear, and a Judy XL in the front. As soon as I got it I took it to my favorite trail which is 12 miles of downhill singletrack. I noticed the prefection immediately. I never have gone around corners with such speed so nimbly. So if you are looking for a satisfying mid-priced rig, look no further then the heckler. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trevor
a weekend warrior
from La Honda CA
Date Reviewed: January 22, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike kicks ass!!!I bought it used about a year and a half ago used off of some guy. I jacked it up with a White Brothers UD150 and many XT and WTR parts. It has Nuke Proof Hubs on it and has a Hayes Disc brake on the front. I must say that if you are looking for a bike get this one. It is the best all around bike I have ever ridden. I would give it more chillies but I can only give it 5. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
NICK
a cross-country rider
from Daly City, CA
Date Reviewed: December 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm not gonna preach to you about how great this bike is or how well it climbs, all the other reviews will tell you that and I believe it's true. What I will tell you is there are two small fixes you can do to your Heckler to ensure it's longevity. First is take your swingarm off and pack those pivot bearings, they don't even come with enough grease for a pigeon to jerk off with and yes even a brand new Heckler. Mine were rusty when I took them off. Second and most important is on the 98 and older Hecklers the derailleur hangers break easily if caught in a branch so hunt for the new Shimano Break away Derailleur bolt it will save you a VERY BIG chunk of change in the long run, I just broke one. The 99 swingarms come with a fatter derailleur hanger, disc brake mounts and an ovalized upper tube where the brake arms attach to. I just visited the Santa Cruz shop and they're all a great bunch of guys. They completed a buildup of a Santa Cruz Bullet with 6in rear travel, a 99 Z1 bomber and discs if you wanna see trick look at this bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ian Hoffman
a cross-country rider
from San Luis Obispo,CA / Rolla, MO
Date Reviewed: November 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ahh, got my Heckler beginning of June, 98. I'd had an old Proflex 750 for many years (Mag21 front/elastomer rear) and had worn it out, and got tired of it. Started looking around for new dualies. I liked the pivot location I had on the Proflex for the benefits of simplicity and uphill traction, granny gear pogo being VERY small. Went to my local bike shop (Cambria Bicycle Outfitters) and rode LOTS of different bikes. Mt Cycle, multiple GTs, Ibis, Klein, Specialized, and some others. When I rode one of the employees' Santa Cruz, that was it, the one. I ordered it up, Lime green front, dark metallic green rear.
Component choice was mostly CBO's standard buildup with a few changes. Put a White Brothers SC90 up front, a MOST excellent choice. The superb steering precision is wonderful. Lotsa Syncros, and Sachs shifters. The Fox Vanilla R shock amazed me for the first few rides, and continues to do so. The ability to adjust the rebound while I'm riding (and have it be a noticeable change too) si wonderful. The lateral stiffness of the frame is amazing, far better then my ancient Proflex, and noticeable better than friends Mt Cycles, AMP, and Trek.
I LOVE the simple maintenance, clean it off, and don't worry about the bearings. Unlike some friends GT squeak machines, ugh. Basically, this was THE bike I was looking for. I've ridden a few other machines on the trails, and none respond as predictably as the Heckler. Nor are many of them as light. I was VERY pleased to have built the bike with a basic XT build kit, nothing fancy for wheels (yet), not Ti goodies, and it still came out at 27lbs even. For an originally downhill designed bike that turned into an XC bike that is built extra beefy, ya gotta love it. Far better than the new Proflex I was looking at for $500 more and 2 lbs heavier... nah.Heckler: excellent bike, WB SC90, Fox Vanilla R, XT kit, 27lbs, $2500,yeah, I'm loving it.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ben miles mathewson
a downhiller
from united kingdom
Date Reviewed: October 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
this is a very good quality frame with excellant balance and control coupled with excellant build quality. With spin wheels front and rear with hope hydraulic disc brakes and XTR groupset this is a fantastic bike for any one who can ride a bike well or not so well so if you want a well priced bike this is the bike for you. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Burden
a racer
from DORSET
Date Reviewed: October 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Santa-Cruz Heckler with XT group-set X-LITE components and Marzocchi Bommer Z1 BAMS and Formula Hydraulic Disc Brakes. A fantastic all round bike with as much ability to go down as it has to go up hill fast!!
The simplicity of the design is outstanding yet it whips the pants off any multy pivot MTB. Great work Lads at Santa-Cruz keep it going. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a cross-country rider
from Kent, England
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought one of these made up with XT gear and 517 rims, with Pace forks. I have a Ti hardtail but wanted a funbike too. I wanted a bike that didn't bob under power, but was plush over bumps especially out of the saddle. URT designs seem odd - off road you are usually out of the saddle for the gnarly bits, so why buy a bike that only has decent suspension when in the saddle? Therefore I also wanted an active suspension design. Marin seemed the obvious choice, as they do what I want, but since I have a decent hardtail I wanted something a little more hardcore, and lets face it, Marins are everywhere, yawn, a bit like Treks. Having read a rave review in a British mag, I rode one, and it felt plush yet didn't bob at all under power, even out of the saddle. After a few months with the bike I have been very impressed - I always thought that full suss would not be the way forward for someone like me that is into the fitness side of riding too, and takes pride in riding uphill fast as well as downhill! However, apart from a slight weight penalty, the bike is great uphill too, in fact on rocky climbs I can ride up hills where normally I would spin out, and even on-road the speed difference is minimal. And downhill it is amazing, I feel far more in control than before, getting to the bottom of long descents feeling good rather than beaten up! If you are looking for a bike that can do it all, ride one of these before buying one of the better known brands - the bike is better and you won't see many others out there! The Pace forks complement it well, though heavier riders would need the stiff springs, I am quite light and the medium springs are perfect. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BLACK DAWN
a racer
from Salo, Finland
Date Reviewed: October 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the Heckler with the Fox vanilla TC rearshock, Z1 BAM, XTR, HUGI hubs and lots of Syncros, with that combination, I think, my heckler is the best bike I have ever rode. I race in Finland the MTB-ENDURO what demands much from bike ´cause terrain is really difficult. I LOOOOVE MY HECKLER AND NEVER SELL IT AWAY!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john
a cross-country rider
from bloomfield,nj
Date Reviewed: September 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike 3 months ago and have to say it kicks ass! I work in a bike shop and had the choice of either a cannondale,schwinn,marin.I rode all the f/s bikes from the three big companies but none of them compare to the heckler except i must say the raven is an awesome machine.But for the money you can't go wrong with the santa cruz.It desends like a rocket and climbs suprisingly well for a f/s bike.So far the only changes i made was to put a z-1 on and i have to say it matches perfect to the fox tc shock.I'm waiting for my cross-max w/disc brakes to come in.Then it will be my ultimate machine!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
pete rider
a downhiller
from england
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This isn't about the heckler more about the f*****g s**t english distibuter, jungle (which is the same as stiff). They charge the earth and are complete tossers. my advice is to buy from somewhere else even though stiff are the distributers.I heard rumers on the downhills that a 6 inch bikes coming out, if so I'm buying one if its like the others .for the bikes i give : | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darren Greene
a cross-country rider
from Austin, Tx.
Date Reviewed: August 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike rocks!!!! Too bad the components aren't as durable! I'm unhappy with it weighing more than what was calculated on Santa Cruz's website however, my bike comes in at 26lbs...not bad, but according to Santa Cruz it should be just over 24. I'd like to know what other components Santa Cruz was calculating with. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
b-man
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: August 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
have ridden a hardtails all my life, tried many fully's. either to heavy, flexy,
or bobbed excessively when climbing. i climb standing and sitting- climbs extremely well. i am a spinner not a masher. bombs down hill through anything faster than a hardtail. handles well also. just put my $ down on the new SL, bike will weigh around 23lbs. best bike for $ period. and most of all
super duper fun. happy trails. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: August 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been riding a '97 Heckler off and on for a week now. My ride is a '98 Jamis Dakar Pro w/ an Atom Bomb, King stuff, and mostly XT parts. Anyway, the Heckler I have been riding is mostly XT w/ a Judy DH fork (sucks), Fox Vanilla shock, and other decent parts. It is a very nice bike that has quick handling, strong acceleration, and nice ride characteristics. This would make a great race bike! However, it isn't plush enough for me with the Fox Vanilla R and Judy DH. I would put a Bomber Z2 on the front mated to a better rear shock. I've enjoyed this bike, but I do miss my Jamis. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Clemens
a weekend warrior
from Mtn. View,California United States of America
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I think this is an excellent product. I am saving up right now to buy one for myself. My brother works in a bike store and I go and test ride it all the time. I really like the way it sticks to the turns but the shops demo bike doesn't have good tires on it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
simon
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've being riding my Heckler for more than a year now. Purchased it after carefully looking at reviews for other bikes. Side by side comparison shows that dollar for dollar, the Heckler is one of the best value bike.The Heckler should be renamed Schizo instead because of its multiple personalities:
Cushy trail bike - check
Lightweight racer - check
Downhill rig - checkI've never regretted my purchase and have only good things to say about its ride. However, I do have a few gripes. The positioning of the swingarm makes adjustment of the front derailleur difficult and without a good clear coat, the decals rubs off easily by the cables.Still, 5 flamin' jalapenos for a fine product. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JohnL
a cross-country rider
from Charlotte, NC
Date Reviewed: July 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I took delivery of my shiny new Heckler last week and now I've had a chance to rack up a few miles on it. Here's my impression...
Goddamn, what a sweet machine. I set mine up with the Cane Creek AD-10, Full XT/Titec with White Hubs and Kore Elite skewers. Got it all polished, including the Z1 BAM Bomber. Add my trusty Time Atac pedals.
This thing is sooo stiff laterally, and tracks true around the corners, Landings are a dream, and climbing is excellent. The Bomber is infinitly adjustable (though I will eventually drop the stiffer springs in), and the Cane Creek is easy to set up and adjust.
There is a ***little***stiffening when the brakes are on hard, but so what? I can really feel the ground under braking, so I know when I'm hooked in and when I'm losin' it.
I came from a 22.5 lb racing hardtail, and I feel faster on this. Climbs are no problem (no pedal-induced bob that I could feel with the compression damping @ 60%).
I'm a wrench at a local shop with a pretty good mountain clientele, so I get a chance to ride around some nice stuff. The Heckler tops the list, hands down. But don't go out and get one, 'cause I love hearing that Nice lookin' ride...What is it
Five flamin' turds | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gambit _6
a cross-country rider
from London,England
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have'nt had my hecklar for long but it has siriously increased my speed on the circuit. I've just started to race and since I got the hecklar mw place has gone up by over 12 places, I came 19th ina recent rce of over 80 people and am only 15... I was riding against , mainly 16 year olds. I've biylt my hecklar with full XT and a middleburn RS-3 chainset with hope bulb wheels and Bomber Z1's. It rides like a dreem and i've managed to hit 41mph on it, a dream come true. The front and rear match each other perfectly and my only gripe is against the hope hubs, which need to b re-biult every 400 miles or so to stop them grinding, but I feel this will be worth it as soon as I can affored my front and rear hope disks. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kris Coyne a Cross Country and
a downhiller
from Colorado Springs
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My Heckler with a z1, and XT, Avid, and RaceFace parts came in last Tuesday and all I can say is that my life has been going downhill fast ever since. The ride is phenominal. I rode every bike I could find for under $3k and either they decended well but were to heavy (or poorly designed) to climb, or they could climb ok but felt sketchy on rapid decents. The Heckler climbs excellently (for a 29 pound bike as I have built mine) and feels in control as fast as I can ride downhill. With the z1 up front the head angle is very relaxed (i estimate 69 degrees). It requires some power to turn but I was amazed at how stable the bike felt in the 25 to 40 mph range (I havent exceeded 40 yet). My idea of the perfect ride is a 3000 foot ascent (over 15 miles)and followed by a 3000 foot decent (over 11 miles) called Jones' Downhill and the Heckler is the perfect bike for the ride. P.S. I got a great deal on the bike from CJ at Phat Tire (no I don't work there--just got an exceptional deal and think you should too). Five stars just does not seem to do this bike justice but I can't give it more | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
eddie c
a downhiller
from buena park, calif. usa
Date Reviewed: July 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i am a free-rider. built my transparent red/black heckler with XTR and race face. Fox vanilla TC upgrade. sweeeeeeeeeeeet! Can't wait to bring it to big bear. Z1 bomber is super plush and matches the rear well.nothing but fun, minimal maintenance required.inexpensive frame with top end parts makes for a great ride. i've never gone faster downhill or been so comfortable on the way up. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sinbad
a cross-country rider
from england
Date Reviewed: July 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
nearly destroyed my back three years ago thought thats it no more serious riding twelve months ago rode a heckler, bought one and ride 130 miles a week on road to work,off road and race thanks to the wonderful heckler. This is a serious bike for all events, strong, tough, confidence inspiring, climbs well descends like a demon. Best bike ever. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a cross-country rider
from Athens GA
Date Reviewed: July 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've Had my Heckler X for about a month now, and I still love it more after every ride. It is absolutely the best bargain in mountain biking, Period! My gripes are, the seat is a cheap sst x that is an anchor and falls apart quickly. The wheels need constant attention, and the Vanilla X shock IS shorter in travel than the AD10 or the Vanilla RX or TC and is off in Damping and technology (The RX and TC are much more sophisticated). But, all in all, $1500 gets you a very ridable bike that is worth twice the price. Every gripe I have is easily remedied by simple upgrades (speaking of that, upgrade the T2SL immediately. C3 type 3, Englund, Hardbody+ Judd) I can't believe people compare this gem to the GTs and Marins and Haros, THERE IS NO COMPARISON! This bike will leave you giggling for a long time. I plan on getting a Fox Vanilla TC, 1999 Z1 Bam when available and two sets of wheels (sport class racers and a set of sturdy free riders.) This bike can free ride and cc race! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a cross-country rider
from Boise, ID
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned my Heckler for about a year and a half now, and it's been through a week in Moab, about half a dozen Wild Rockies Series cross country races, a whole lot of miles in the foothills around Boise - and I couldn't be happier with it (unless it weighed the same as my titanium road bike!). I built it up with full XT, a Judy XC long travel fork, a Super Deluxe shock, and a lightweight Mavic wheelset. It just does everything well, and the durability is amazing. I do my own wrenching, and do most of my friends' suspension bikes, and I'm constantly impressed at how little maintenance the Heckler needs, and how well it's put together compared to others. Forget the free ride crap - if you ever climb anything steeper and longer than a speed bump, you owe it to yourself to check out a Heckler. Durability, performance, looks, and the fact that you don't see 20 others on every ride... It just doesn't get any better than this! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a cross-country rider
from Walnut Creek, CA
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is one bike you can feel comfortable taking it out all day long, traveling up hill, downhill, tight single-trac, stream-crossings or high rough drop offs. The bike gives you the security knowing it can go up and over everthing! Point... and shoot! This is one bike that leaves the road behind you. When I finish my ride, there is nothing but muscle fatigue instead of joint fatigue. The bike rides and feels alot lighter that the 27 pounds it weighs. I have owned mine for year and half, being over 200 pounds, I would have thought that I would have replaced something on this bike. Pivots and body integerty looks and feels like brand new. On braking the bike, I feel some chirping on lock-out braking but this bike is not equipped with ABS either. It brakes alot better than my hardtail. A GREAT all around bike that keeps you coming back for more Fun. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a cross-country rider
from san Jose
Date Reviewed: June 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My bike is actually the Heckler X. Overall, I'm very happy, although the tires that come with the bike did not help my confidence any. I switched those out and the difference is immediate. My upgraded fork was also a must. The bike seems to handle quite well coming down down although not as good as a normal Heckler. Not sure why, I've asked Santa Cruz themselves and they can't help me. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a weekend warrior
from Canberra Australia
Date Reviewed: June 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
A great bike for the hacker at heart. I have a 20 heckler with Z-1's and it rips. While it is not really a downhill bike it is fast all the same. A mate of mine is trading in his San Andreas XC for a new heckler because it is heaps lighter and climbs much better. The only down-point is the rear shock. As soon as I bought the bike the top coil of the shock tried to embed itself into the top tube. Whether this is a design fault or what- I don't know. Anyway I took an angle grinder to it and it now works well. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Ginn
a downhiller
from Danville, Ca USA
Date Reviewed: June 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a 20 inch Heckler and just want to say how strong it is. Every bike I own gets broken befor it breaks me except the Heckler. I am all beat up and the Heckler don't even have a scatch. I love it! I belive that any serious moutain biker should check it out... Robert | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake
a cross-country rider
from Aptos, CA
Date Reviewed: May 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have ridden a friends Heckler a few times. It is a great ride for the most part. However, we both agree the suspension really firms
up during hard braking, a very common occurrence going down very long and steep single track. Its not a real serious deficit, but it
does get a little bouncy and skittish in tight situations. My LTS-1 does not have this annoying trait. You can cruise through the same
sections with a little more ease, comfort and speed. A plus for the Heckler is less chain-suck when it is wet and muddy. Plus you don't have to lube the pivots all the time. However, if
given the opportunity, my friend would swap rides in an instance. No chance. I give the LTS 5 stars and the Heckler 4 - (minus 1 star
for the braking issue). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Skiver
a cross-country rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: May 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Wooo hooo!!! I love this bike. It rips the trails and kicks others ass. I actually fitted my bike with sunrims, Judy DH, full XT and azonic parts. Waaahhhhh... sooo fast. At first, I couldn't keep up with the bike cause it's so fast and light but I didn't have the fitness. Now, I am one with the bike. And my friends hate me cause I have a HECKLARRR!! Yeah! But I do hate the rear FOX R vanilla a bit. A little too soft. Seems like I'm pogoing a bit especially when I'm doing a run up hill. But downhill the bike is faster that like lightning. I've turned it up to the max already. Does anyone know what I can do? I weigh 62 kgs.... GO HECKLER!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Terry Smith
a cross-country rider
from Golden, CO
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my Heckler for over a month now and I love it. I got rid of my 10 year old Ritchey hardtail. The Heckler with the Z-1 fork and XTR plus extras weighs in at 26.5 pounds, which is lighter than my Ritchey. I'm 45 years old and still don't get passed much; I like the Z-1's plush ride, heavy or not. I'm still learning the bike's capabilities. There is some bobbing when climbing, nothing bad. But downhill I can scare myself silly while the bike just wants to go faster! When climbing waterbars or other techical obstacles, the suspension really helps once you get used to it. I wish I could have afforded this bike sooner! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tom laporta
a cross-country rider
from berkeley, ca
Date Reviewed: May 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Heckler-X. Immediately outfitted with a titanium BB, 20T inner ring, low bars, XT shifters, bar ends and shimano 535 pedals. It is initially too soft, the 300# shock spring probably needs to be a 350 and the t2 fork needs the firm spring kit (I'm 190#).
Feels stiff, yet compliant. A little pedal induced suspension movement is your pedal stroke isn't super smooth. Weld quality is good, machined parts look lean and mean, paint quality is very good. I think I can get by w/o the rebound adj. on the rear shock. Fox will revalve for $40, but I'll probably just buy a new shock when this one bombs.
All in all, I'm very satisfied with the rideablility of this bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Uncle Wiggly
a cross-country rider
from Washington
Date Reviewed: April 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently got a Heckler built up after riding a few of the really cool FS bikes out there. The rest are toys compared to this bike. It may not look like a space ship but it sure does fly. Get the AD-10 shock for the rear, it is very plush and adjustible and pairs really well with the Marzocchi B-2 fork.Overall a great value, a great ride and a great company to talk to. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marc
a racer
from CA
Date Reviewed: April 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike ROCKS!
I lucked out finding this slightly used bike at my LBS. It had maybe 5 rides on it. The Large size frame came equiped with a Z1, ESP 9 rear derailleur and shifters, XTR front deraileur, Chris King headset, Raceface - Bottom Bracket, Seatpost & LP Cranks, & Spinergy's. I put the Z1 and Spinergy's up for sale and added Frogs, a Judy SL Long travel, XTR rear deraileur w/gripshift 800 shifters, and Mavic 221 wheelset with Nukeproof hubs. Weighs in at 26.5 lbs.
The Z1 was great when descending, but was too heavy and didn't fit in with my riding style. The ESP deraileur ('97) flat out sucked. These guys provide great customer service, replacing my derailleur twice, but the damn thing just doesn't shift worth a crap. I guess I just got tired of bunny hopping to make the bike shift. By the way, I asked the mechanic at my LBS to call these guys and find out what the problem was. They told him to spray the pivot points with a teflon based lube, and get this. They told him to tell me not to ride in the mud or dusty areas, or else I'd have the same problems..... The XTR derailleur took care of this problem. I guess I just can't stop my self... Let me tell you my experience with Nukeproof hubs. Had 'em for about 16 months, and put about 3k miles on 'em. I had them in the shop 4 times. The front loosened up twice to the point that you were using your brakes whether you wanted to or not. The rear was rebuilt 4 times. My last experience was the freewheel completely locking up. Again, great customers service. They are sending me brand new hubs, but do you really want to go through this? Anyhow...The Heckler climbs like a mountain goat, and rips on the downhills. A great all around bike even if you have to bunny hop to shift ; ) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Stockwell
a weekend warrior
from Groton, MA USA
Date Reviewed: March 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Heckler with the XT set up and Judy X-Country front shock about a year ago, site unseen, from a local dealer who was so interested in seeing the bike he was willing to sell it to me for just over his cost at $1730, not including the Shimano 535's I put on it.I first heard about Santa Cruz and the Heckler it through this web site and then researched it further at the Santa Cruz site and through discussions with Santa Cruz people who are great.In a nutshell, this bike is awesome, and an incredible value. You won't be displeased if you are looking for an excellent all around dualie.It climbs like a mountain goat, tracks well, and sucks up huge bumps with the 4 of rear travel and the long travel Judy up front. The stock components are great too except for the Primal Raptor tires it comes with, which are not good for the terrain and weather conditions here. I put Continental X-Country's on there which are great.One of the nicest benefits of this bike over linkage bikes like GT's, etc., is that there is no maintenance required on the rear shock set up. It uses a sealed ball bearing rather than bushings that constantly need lubrication and cleaning, and it only has one main pivot point. The pivot point is ingeniously located in between the small and middle chain ring. There is no bobbing, and when you are climbing in the granny gear, you get just a little pull of the back wheel toward the front which makes it a better climber with only a tiny loss of efficiency. In other words, the only time you get a little loss of efficiency is when you need it to climb better. The frame also has excellent lateral stiffness. It's one hell of a bike. Go buy one!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick olstad
a downhiller
from Alaska Wasilla America
Date Reviewed: January 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
It is a great down hilling bike . I have a santa cruze heckler wit xt with white industries crank and a rock shox judy t2 and a cupe delux rear shok. It is rock shox red with a bushing color swing arme it is awesom. It cost me $1589 because I work at a bike shop. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank Burkhardt
a downhiller
from Germany
Date Reviewed: January 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just found my Heckler by accident - my old bike was stolen (a Kona sex three, it was almost like a cc bike, but with some suspension possibilities added) and I searched for a new bike. In Germany, fullies are extremely expensive, so I was happy to get a used one.
It's absolutely great! It's good for uphill and incredible for downhill! Paths that were difficult before are like highways now, the limits are far away for me. In addition, it it well equipped with a Z1, XT parts, Chris King, V-Brakes... So, let's go downhill!Frank Burkhardt | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SW
a weekend warrior
from Traverse City, MI
Date Reviewed: January 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding a Heckler since May. It is my first f/s bike. When I started looking, I wanted a dual sus bike that felt like a hard tail in the tight single track but still ate huge bumps and didn't weigh 27+ lbs. I have owned 13 hard tails since 1989 and know how I want a bike to ride. (I work in a bike shop so we change bikes more aften than buy new underwear!)
I rode Specialized FSRs, Fishy Joshuas, C-dales, Proflex, Ibis Mojo, Schwinn Stuff and the Heckler was by far the sweetest ride! W/ XT stuff and a Manitou up front it weighs 26 lbs and feels like 24 to ride. Value in this bike is un-matched! If anyone is ever looking for a great upper-end used bike let me know. I want the new Kawasaki Green! Wow! Mine is Orange w/ blue.... Very cool. Out of the 15 mtbs I have owned the Santa Cruz will be the first time I buy the same bike twice! Seriosly. I also almost always know someone else looking to sell a very nice bike so let me know! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KORMA
a weekend warrior
from England
Date Reviewed: November 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a heckler with Z1's which compliment the coupe deluxe on the back and it rides really well,I'd recommend this bike any day of the week.Korma. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
GC
a weekend warrior
from Flushing, NY
Date Reviewed: October 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got my 16 Heckler in metallic green with LX/XT kit and a Z2 Bomber and I have to say I'm very impressed. I tried the Klein Mantra, C-Dale SuperV900 and a Joshua. They just don't compare. If you're looking for a F/S rig, check out this bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johnny Henstock
a cross-country rider
from Crosshills England
Date Reviewed: October 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I/VE OWNED EIGHT MTB/S IN TEN YEARS AND RIDDEN MANY MORE AND I MUST SAY THAT THE SANTA CRUZ HECKLER IS BY FAR THE MOST FUN TO RIDE. GET ONE AND GO HECKLE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bikeboy
a cross-country rider
from Woodland Hills CA
Date Reviewed: September 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I love my bike. I have a 3 JUDY SL up front and 4 of travel in the rear supplied by Rock Shox Super Delux. The bike weighs a hair over 26lbs with my XT parts and it kicks ass. I give it many, mucho chilies!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trollhead
a cross-country rider
from Nor-Cal
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just took my first ride on my new XT equipped Heckler (my first FS rig). I am in MTB HEAVEN! This is the most awesome bike I have ever ridden. Can't believe I waited this long to make the jump to FS. If you are thinking about buying this bike, Make any sacrifices necessary and get it ASAP! You won't regret it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
little baby chris
a weekend warrior
from MD
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
DOnt believe the hype!!!! Anyone who says this bike isnt as good as link bikes should have their ball bag examined. This thing rocks....sweet ride, its a good combination between flat riding and the hairy scay bumpy stuff. First off check its price of around $890 for the custom frame with Rock Shox rear shock. Then throw in the fact you can get ultra sweet paint job for $40.....you got a great thing going already. The frame is welded together beautifully, looks strong as hell. The rear triangle is a monster deal that is laterally stiff as teenage boy looking at Penthouse for the first time. You could go with the Tazmon frame which is supposed to be more stiff, but then thats another 300 bucks. The big thing is on the Tazmon yer limited to the air shock...yuk!!! Anyways the ride is awesome, you can roll over anything you like and dont have to have a lot of skill to do so. It s\puts the fun back into mountain biking, by giving you a HUGE margin to screw up and still not crash. I am going places i would never go before.....check the city riding, its great!!! Going on and off curbs was never so much fun, not to mention my neck and back are sending me sweeet praise for going with a full suspension rig. Uphill ability???? It is so awesome i think it rivals the downhill performance.....dont believe people when they say it weighs too much or that the suspension action sucks power from you. Unless you are going up a perfectly smooth grade with no imperfections (oh that sounds like road biking ) the Heckler is the way to go. You can pick any line you want and you dont go flying around off the bumbs. Heck i'll strap a ten pound bag of feed to the bike and still beat those suckas with their ultralight rigid bikes. Anyways buy yourself one if you have been looking for one. This is a sweet deal...a rare find, a true deal in the world of rip offs and marketing scemes. This one rides better than: (these are the ones ive ridden so the list is limited) Marin Rift Zone, Trek Y-bikes, Pro-Flex series, Schwinn s-10, Giant FS, MOngoose, Specialized FS series.hope this helps .....email me with questions if you are serious about getting one.PS no i dont work for SantaCruz....but i wish i did!!! Does anyone know if they need some graphic designers/photographers/film makers????see ya
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a weekend warrior
from Los Gatos, CA
Date Reviewed: August 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Overall, a pretty good bike. However, brake and pedal induced lock-out limit the suspension's capability. On steep accents, the rear tire does not dig-in like an active rear-end. On steep decents, braking really stiffens the bump modulation; This also occurred on on active designs that I have ridden, but not to the extent of the Heckler. Santa Cruz claims that this is not true. However, my test ride told a different story.I was sold on their advertizing hype, but after numerous test rides I ended up on a Diamondback V-Link 3.1, a better ride, and 700 hundred extra dollars in my checking account.Santa Cruz claims that this is not true. However, my test ride told a different story. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Candido Tapia
a
from weekend warrior
Date Reviewed: August 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Definetly a great bike, recently built up with Bomber Z1 fox vanilla r.s, 97 XT cranks,XT front and rear derr. XT V brakes ,XT levers,XTR B.B , Mavic UB 220 rims LX hubs
& SQ ,X-ray shifters, control tech seatost,kore bars,Azonic shorthy stem, san marco seat.I still need a few upgrades like some kevlar tires, and probably shimano pedals.
I probably only have about 30 miles on this bike, but I can tell you that
it blast to ride , no bouncing when pedal hard only on the front ( but I'm still playing with the adjustments on it, the bike seems a litle heavy, but I know
that Z1 contribute to that. As things were out I will try to go with lighter
replacement parts for it or when ever I can afford $$$$$ it.
If its on your list of your possible next bike purchase , definetly take a close
look. Also consider the fact that you can build it up the way you want it
if you decide to go with a frame only purchase. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe B.
a cross-country rider
from Los Angeles, CA
Date Reviewed: August 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Previously, I praised the ease of the selection process enabled by this GREAT SITE and the Santa Cruz folks via e-mail. But now that I've ridden the bike for about a week, more works come to mind ... LIGHT, FAST, GOOD ON ALL KINDS OF TERRAIN, GREAT VALUE. My thanks to all the OTHER RIDERS who took the time and trouble to communicate their experiences in/on/with their bikes and components, and to the GREAT MINDS who created MTBR. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin Rochon
a cross-country rider
from Tecumseh Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: August 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
YUMMY | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig Smith
a weekend warrior
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: August 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I read a lot of reviews on dual suspension bikes. I wanted a bike that wouldn't kill me on cross country rides, but one that I could really push hard on downhills. I also didn't want to pay the earth, and wanted to transfer the LX/XT gear + Judys from my then current bike. The reviews generally raved about the Heckler, especially regarding value for money, so on a recent trip to the States I decided to try one. I rented a Heckler fitted with RST Hi Fives from a shop in Tahoe, then hit the Northstar ski lifts. What an experience!!! First, the concept of only riding downhill all day, with lifts to take you up, great. Secondly, the Heckler,what an awesome bike. Light weight, detailed finish, great travel that just soaks up the ruts. I was sold. On the way home, I stopped in at Irvine Bike source and bought a frame. A dozen rides later, in New Zealand and I am even more impressed. The cross country performance and hill climbing is only slightly more energy sapping than my GT Avalanche hardtail, but the downhill!!! I can now waste my fellow riders without riding way beyond my capabilities. It's also really nice to reide a bike that is made in a comparatively small US based factory, than one in Taiwan that churns them out by the thousands. Why would you want any other dual suspension Bike? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe B.
a cross-country rider
from Los Angeles, CA
Date Reviewed: August 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Having researched bikes here at MTBR, and then trying them out at various LBS, I ended up -- despite my original intention to buy a Y bike -- ordering a Heckler. The great part is that I did a LOT of e-mailing back and forth to the factory to choose the best equipment and size for my needs -- and they were VERY HELPFUL: I ordered the XT package and they steered me away from my initial selection of an INDY SL front fork to the new Judy T2 that they just got in, at no extra cost. The funny part of this review is that I'm actually picking up the bike tomorrow -- so my point here is that this GREAT SITE, and the Santa Cruz company, made the selection process ENTIRELY TERRIFIC. I'll post again once I've got a few rides under my belt. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DEVIN
a cross-country rider
from SLC, UTAH
Date Reviewed: August 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I think that for the buck it is very hard to fing a bike that rides better than the Santa Cruz Heckler. Plan on spending at least a $1000 doallars more. It is a plush machine without being a pogo stick ride. Plus you can get them in about 10 different colors. It has 4 inches travel in the rear. It is way nice, and fairly light at 6.25 lbs for the frame with a rock shox super deluxe rear shock. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jesse philo
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased the Santa Cruz heckler this May. I have been extremely impressed with it. I chose it because I wanted a single pivot, not floating drivetrain, long travel, cross country capable mountain bike. That is exactly what the heckler is. I bought the XT group w/ the Rock Shox judy xc long travel, the Rock Shox coup deluxe rear shock, and the optional scott riser bars. The bike weighs 25.9 lbs.
in this setup in a 18 size. Construction is excellent--even beautiful. Everything about the frame is HIGH quality.I would best describe the ride as FUN! The heckler is extremely comfortable thanks to 4 rear wheel travel. It stiff enough laterally. And the geometry feels great. I love riding this bike--it's just a blast to ride. Like I said: FUN. I recomend this bike to anyone.
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Submitted by
Warren
a cross-country rider
from Cupertino, CA
Date Reviewed: July 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After researching and test-riding a number of different dual-boingers, I recently purchased a Santa Cruz Heckler with a Marzocchi Bomber Z1. The bike feels light and bounce-free on climbs (even with the Z1), and nimble and well controlled on fast single-track. On bumpy fire-road descents the 'Cruz just flat rules! The plush 4 rear suspension employs a sturdy, single pivot design which feels flex-free, and is blessed with an excellent reputation for reliability. As a bonus, you get a proper bottle cage mount. What more could you want in a mountain bike? Also, should you ever need to deal with the folks at Santa Cruz, they are very cool. Oh yeah, the price is right too.
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