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Santa Cruz Jackal

MSRP $ 1599.00
# of Reviews 38
Average Rating 4.84/5
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Submitted by marshalleames a Racer from lafayette CA USA
Date Reviewed: November 13, 2009
Duration Product Used:3 months
Strengths:Jumping!!! very low, stiff, bomb prof dropouts, short chain stays. good looks
Weaknesses:nothing,
Similar Products Used:Its too unique to be similar.
Bike Setup:fox f series 100mm, formula k24, wtb trail wheels vulpine tires devo seat, thomson, xt cranks, mrp g2 36 ring, xo drivetrain, funn bars,
Bottom Line:I grew up riding hard tails and have never been so stoked on a frame like this. I am barley 6'1" and ride a long(L). It fits me better than any other hard tail. I have only been riding it for three months and have already come to a conclusion. Nothing can beat it. Before this bike I owned the older jackal and was convinced that this was the one. The weight of it wasn't to bad when set up with a single, but it still didn't feel perfect. Santacruz really nailed with the 09. The weight was cut and the length was shortened, enabling it to flick around easier. Plus the look is awesome. This isn't just a pros bike. It will be perfect for anybody to build up, especially those who want to gain more skill in jumping and pump tracks. This bike will be my go to bike for slalom and 4x this season.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by jacobosapien a Weekend Warrior from Mexico
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2009
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $680.00
Purchased At:LBS
Strengths:One of the lightest in it's category, the dropouts are very useful, very stable and strong enough (210lbs rider), super short chainstay, classic design (new jackal), I'm stopping to suck thanks to the frame.
Weaknesses:None
Similar Products Used:Old jackal
Bike Setup:Single speed, thomson stem and post, ir tires, cheep-o wheels and handlebar, raceface cranks, dk pedals, hayes brakes, zocchi fork.
Bottom Line:I bouth the frame to practice trials riding, so i will change to rigid fork and longer stem, but i'm amazed how easy it is to manouver with the bike, before this bike i couldn't perform track stands or or going over park benches. Jumping, this is incredible too, the first time i lifted it i got scared cause i didn't expect to as high as i did. No flaws design.
Value Rating:4Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Mathew Moore a Weekend Warrior from London
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2009
Duration Product Used:3 months
Strengths:This thing is super strong and super fast. I bought it as a frame only, resprayed it and built it custom. I'm in love with the drop outs, the bulge at the front and also how beefed up it is.
Weaknesses:Maybe a bit heavy compared to other frames but its not supposed to be for girls
Bike Setup:Fox Vanillas, King headset, x4 stem, pro2s on ex721, diablous cranks w/e13, xo, formula 1 brakes
Bottom Line:When i was looking for a frame, all others seemed to be skinny little flimsy frames and they were all looked the same. Now this has character, and tons of it, no other dj frame is so overbuilt like this one with such a lush shape. I love this bike, shame they changed it for 2009.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by kurtis (SKABS) a Weekend Warrior from Edmonton, Alberta Canada
Date Reviewed: December 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:everywhere
Duration Product Used:2 Years
Price Paid: $1800.00
Purchased At:united cycle
Strengths:the frame!!!! so super uber strong. anything i hit and land sketchie it takes it like a dream.
Weaknesses:no chain guide out of factory but got a bottom bracket chain guide put on
Bike Setup:kenda "k- rads", mavic "deetracks", shimano "hone cranks and BB", shimano "deore draler" e-13 "bb chain guide" king earl pedals, avid mech brakes "original ones, fox 20mm "van R 160mm "fork
Bottom Line:kick a$$ bike with a few upgrades right off the bat but over all a real awesome bike that can be transformed from just a dirt jumper to a free ride hadtail
Value Rating:4Overall Rating:4

Submitted by carter01 a Downhiller from london
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:Uk bike park
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $600.00
Purchased At:private sale
Strengths:superbly balanced and strong, also It's true the Jackal looks very nice in the flesh, way better than photos,
Weaknesses:not sure- perhaps more expensive than alternatives, some of these are obvious but here goes ,quite heavy(necessary), you cant fit a front derailleur - not that many would want to( check the seat tube out)
Similar Products Used:cannondale chase, spooky bandwagon, diamond back something
Bike Setup:the long 2008 (with the crossbar hump) jackal (im 6 ft 1 and I think the size is perfect for me - but i prefer a slightly larger frame due to long legs!),cheap forks stance static but they are springed for me and they are light- fine for the money, sram drive, funn hubs and rims, e13
Bottom Line:the frame is strong and hence fairly weighty, but sc have balanced this weight superbly - it flys and is very nimble in the air, you can push the frame around easily, reasuringly strong for landings, lively handling yet stable enough to forgive some mistakes - easy to manual, and wheely, I felt comfortable on this frame straight away
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Huckfinn a Downhiller from Los Angeles, CA 90025
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:Kenter Whoops
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $660.00
Purchased At:Craigslist.com
Strengths:geometry, looks, and solid build/feel
Weaknesses:None.
Similar Products Used:Iron Horse 4.5 Mavrick
Bike Setup:Stock with Animal Steve Hamilton petals.
Bottom Line:This bike is great!!! I would recommend this bike for anybody doing DJs. The frame has perfect geometry, and I was very happy with the components...which was a pleasant suprise after reading all the reviews about the Dirt Jumper 3 fork. It may be a little heavy, but don't be a wuss. This isn't supposed to be a xc bike, it's for DJs. Now go out and buy one!

Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by htmafia a from Tahoe
Date Reviewed: March 16, 2008
Duration Product Used:6 months
Price Paid: $350.00
Strengths:One tough ass frame. Great geometry.
Weaknesses:dropouts loosened up a bunch at first but once it was set it hasn't loosened again.
Similar Products Used:Kona Shred, Black Market Mob/Riot, Specialized P2
Bike Setup:Jackal frame, pike 426 coil forks, AtomLab Pimp wheels, Saint cranks and some other stuff that doesn't need to be too strong.
Bottom Line:Super low standover height. Easy to get your feet over for no footed cans and tailwhips. Short chainstay. Extremely easy to manual. The wheelbase is just right. You can do barspins and Xups without having to take your front foot off. I've wrecked it a bunch and other than the scratches you'd never know. No dents, no cracks. Just bruised ribs, sprains and concussions. With the right components you can have a bike that is indestructible
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by mild beast a Downhiller from Donkeycrest, Ca, USA
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:CITY STREETS
Duration Product Used:2 Years
Price Paid: $1200.00
Purchased At:T.J. Frisbee's
Strengths:IT'S STRONG. That's it's first strength. The geometry is very good. Great standover. The bike leaps off jumps (I still get the back tire on my ass). This thing handles like a razor sharp stilleto; just slices through any turns, dirt singletrack or city streets. It has a very short wheel base, so it is NOT so good on rough DH courses. But if it smooths out, very nice.
Weaknesses:HEAVY. I recommend buying the frame and building yourself. Comes with really really stupid tires (some WTB knobby deals.. horrid). Mine is set up as a single speed now, which is how this bike s/b setup, imo. It comes with E13 crap, so I had to get an E13 chain guide. What a P.O.S. The chain popped off relentlessly and at the worst times. Of course, you can't stuff it back on there without tools. HORRID.
Similar Products Used:The P series Specialized bikes, Giant DJ bikes, others.
Bike Setup:SS. No chain guide. E13 bash guard. Alex rim + Atom Lab hub in the back. Hookworms for traction.
Bottom Line:Set this up as a single speed. It's too much of a pig to even think about taking this UP a hill or XC. Get rid of the knobbies. Great on DJ's. I like it on the street, but I'd prefer a lighter rig.
Value Rating:4Overall Rating:5

Submitted by dimitri a Downhiller from SB&palm springs
Date Reviewed: September 11, 2007
Favorite Trail:all santa barbara trails
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $1300.00
Purchased At:joels bike shop in thousand palms
Strengths:everything this bike is as solid as my Super 8 DH bike
Weaknesses:none
Similar Products Used:none come close
Bottom Line:this bike will with stand anything from the BMX track to DH trails. dont settle for anything less its worth the money
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by arlo grossman a Downhiller from easton
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:split rock
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $940.00
Purchased At:bike barn
Strengths:the fork is one of the most bad ass part on the hole bike the head set is amazing and the two bolts in the back are pritty beefy and the bump in the top of the frame looks really cool.
Weaknesses:the seat ond seat post arint the best but hay whet can you do.
Similar Products Used:the p.3.
Bike Setup:i like the geometry of the fram it really keeps your wait in one place and the back derailer is out of the way.
Bottom Line:this is the strongest bike in the world ita a great bike and beats eney p.3
Value Rating:4Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Joss r a Racer from wigan
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:blackcomb whistler
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $1500.00
Purchased At:n/a
Strengths:Bomb proof! very sturdy and brillianly engineerd!
Weaknesses:hardly anyfing but most probably the mech brakes but ther not bad.
Similar Products Used:kona hardtails, trek hardtails and club roost bikes.
Bike Setup:e thirteen bash gaurd,sproket and chain stay. maunitu stance forks. dmr. sram. wtb. flnn wheels and headet. dmr tyres. more.....
Bottom Line:This bike is an exelent ride and performer this is an all round bike and it is a brilliant at everything i think sanat cruz have made the bike to perfection very very very impresed. you definatly get your moneys worth!the person should be into freestyle. the person that shouldnt buy it is someone that cant acsess a gud biking place.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Pete a from calgary
Date Reviewed: March 7, 2007
Duration Product Used:1 Year
Price Paid: $1800.00
Strengths:Very stiif frame super solid. The frame weighs 4.8 pounds even go 2 the santa cruz site and check. Comes with good components.
Weaknesses:When I bought it had mechanical discs but I upgraded to advid juicy 3s
Similar Products Used:specialized p3 kona cowan cannondale chase 1
Bike Setup:stock except the brakes
Bottom Line:Buy the bike if you want the money... you most likely will never break the headtube..the frame is bomb proof and it comes with good components.Its easy to wheekly and manual. god for bunny hops.Smooth landing onm jumps.. very stiff even on hard landings. good for tricks. cool low frame.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by John a from California United States
Date Reviewed: February 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $500.00
Strengths:Frame is extremely strong, orange paint job looks cool, and does not chip very easily. Bottle cap opener built into the disc side drop out, replaceable drop outs. Solid feel to it.
Weaknesses:Heavy frame around 6.5 or 7 lbs.
Similar Products Used:Kona Cowan, Scott Voltage, Cannondale Chase, Marin Rocky Ridge, Santa Cruz Chameleon
Bike Setup:Orange Jackal, Deemax F&R, Pike 426, Holzfeller Cranks, Bars, Stem, Pedals.
Bottom Line:Great frame, if your not worried about weight this frame is the way to go.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Taylor Shamshoian a from Santa Cruz, California, USA
Date Reviewed: December 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:UCSC Trails, esp. Z's
Duration Product Used:1 Year
Price Paid: $1500.00
Purchased At:Scotts Valley CycleSport
Strengths:Awesome geometry, indestructable frame, whole bike looks sick, from the best company in the whole world, I could go on forever.....
Weaknesses:I had to put a chainguide on it, Santa Cruz should stock it with one. Also the bike is pretty heavy, and the seat post is pretty short.
Similar Products Used:None can compare!
Bike Setup:Stock except for E-13 chainguide and Pike 426 fork.
Bottom Line:This is by far the best hardtail I have ever ridden! Santa Cruz really did the geometry right, the bike is super easy to manual, jump, j-hop, etc and yet is insanely stable on downhills. The parts spec is really good (except the lack of chainguide) although I did get a new fork because I wanted more travel and adjustments, however the DJ 3 fork is definately a good choice for dirt jumping. I ride this bike at local dirt jumps, off drops, down trails, at skateparks and am thoroughly pleased at how well it takes it all. Although it is made for DJ it takes freeride really well, and I also race downhill (also a little dual slalom/4X) and it is perfect! I have had this bike well over a year now, I ride back and forth to school and work and put on countless hours of riding and have not had to replace any thing. The Pike I put on is a perfect match for the bike, I would definately recommend one. Santa Cruz is by far the best bike company, they are all about quality. Overall one heck of an awesome ride, really works for any kind of riding! Totally recommended to anyone who can't afford full suspension but like to ride like they have one! This bike takes anything you can throw at it!
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Teddy Pango a from Allentown, PA
Date Reviewed: November 28, 2006
Duration Product Used:1 Year
Price Paid: $1100.00
Strengths:The Jackal is a unique frame that stands out from the rest. If you are put off by the look of the frame, you don't want it. It is a strong frame with replaceable dropouts that can be either horizontal or vertical with a derailleur hanger. The geometry is great for dirt jumping and urban.
Weaknesses:The frame is aluminum, but it is not light. 6.5 pounds, and the complete that was discontinued comes with EX325 rims and a DJ3 fork that really make it heavy in its class. The fit is not good for trail riding; it is more specific for its use. The frame is disc only, so those hoping to put a v-brake or HS33 for some trials moves will be diappointed. The frame does not have chain guide mounts, and it will not accomidate a front derailleur. The frame is now manufactured in Taiwan.
Similar Products Used:Lots of mountain frames. I owned a Giant STP and trials bikes as well.
Bike Setup:On One Inbred fork, Deore/Sun DS-2 wheels, Dura-Ace rear derailleur, Cane Creek DC levers, Avid BB7 brakes, Maxxis Holy Roller tires, and a lot of other stuff.
Bottom Line:The Jackal is a beefy, reliable DJ/urban frame that will last. You are not looking at a light weight frame, though it is aluminum, so your choice of components could lead to a real anchor. The geometry is great for its purpose. Don't expect to keep up with XC riders or enjoy hours in the saddle, though.

The frame does offer the option of changing from vertical to horizontal dropouts at your whim, so it has a bit of versatility. Santa Cruz once offered a $1600 complete. The price was reduced, but it looks like it is a frame-only option right now. This will be bad news for those who buy their bikes assembled off the floor.

You don't see Jackals all over the place (as you may see Specialized or Giant frames), so it may help you establish your individuality. It is easily as bombproof as any steel frame out there.
Value Rating:4Overall Rating:4

Submitted by Harry a from London
Date Reviewed: October 18, 2006
Duration Product Used:1 Year
Price Paid: $400.00
Purchased At:Jungle - direct (trade)
Strengths:Look at it. It's indestructable. Broke previous frames, not this one. Quite rare, beautiful paintjob (trans red. Bottle opener on dropouts
Weaknesses:People (with strange taste) say it's ugly. It's not light, but you can't have all that strength without a tradeoff. Beer spray on disc rotor when using dropout bottle opener!
Similar Products Used:Chase, Banshee Scratch, P-series, MsIsle etc.
Bike Setup:Pike 426(don't trust alu steerer) King headset and Front hub, White ind rear hub Mavic 729s. Brooklyn stem, Dirillium pedals, XTR mech XT shifter hayes/shimano brakes, goodridge hoses (through steerer), ea70 bars saint/MRP3 chainset, xt cassette, Thomson post, DMR saddle - no expense spared
Bottom Line:This bike is the best thing i've ever ridden. If you want a bike that's a little bit different, go for one of these. manuals and jumps, so easily, plus It's Santa Cruz so you know the quality is there, it looks pimp, lot's of people tell me they hate it in pictures but they like mine in the flesh. It turns heads, good and bad for that reason, but do you really want to be ANOTHER trailstar rider? It's reasonably good value as a frame, with a dependable warranty (not that you'll need it). I love this bike and recommend it to anyone
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Robby de Veer a from Southern California
Date Reviewed: October 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:Marshal Cyn.
Duration Product Used:3 months
Purchased At:direct
Strengths:Bomb Proof. Great DJ bike. Frame geometry is perfect, it's like a large BMX with gears! Looks amazing and is responsive and easy to maneuver. Bunny hops easy and is light weight.
Weaknesses:1) No ISCG tabs, requires chain guide right out of the box, chain kept falling off. The chain stay protrudes out very close to the chain ring, so a double "bash" gaurd chain retainer is not possible. I am running the MRP mini me with only the front retainer. 2)Black powder coat chips off easy. 3) Funky head tube design leads me to question it's integrity in the long run (no problems yet)
Similar Products Used:Specialized -P2 chro mo,Ironhorse -Yakuza, Woodman, Banshee
Bike Setup:Long Frame with DJ complete kit from Santa Cruz, Holzefeller everthing. MRP mini me chain retainer (Front retainer only, 4 bolt pattern 104 BCD)
Bottom Line:Best DJ Bike out there! Despite what it lacks, it is ten times better than all other DJ bikes. It is very versitille for single tracks and moderate downhill.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:4

Submitted by Dexter a Downhiller from St.Thomas, On, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:scorpian, autobahn
Duration Product Used:6 months
Price Paid: $499.00
Strengths:very stiff looks
Weaknesses:doesn't work real well with 24" wheels
Bike Setup:deity products avid 7s chris king headset and hubs crankbrother pedals pike 454
Bottom Line:the best looking frame out there very stiff one the best frames for dirt jumpin definately wont break this frame best bang for your buck
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Liam Goslett a Weekend Warrior from Toronto,Ontario,Canada
Date Reviewed: August 7, 2006
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $2000.00
Strengths:GEOMETRY (cant stress that enough), components (apart from DJ3), brakes are alright.
Weaknesses:DJ3! no chainguide!
Similar Products Used:none compare
Bike Setup:pike 426, kenda k-rad on back, hayes nine rear brake (8 inch), Avid bb7 (7 inch) on front
Bottom Line:BEAUTIFUL BIKE!!! the best for dj, street & urban. couldnt do bunny/j hops before and now can get em perfect after only 3 months.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:4

Submitted by iver dh a Downhiller from Durango
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:whistler
Duration Product Used:1 Year
Price Paid: $1000.00
Purchased At:Bici 5
Similar Products Used:CHASE, BULLIT.
Bike Setup:ANOTHER FORK, (66R)
Bottom Line:Is excelent bike for DJ, street, dirt jump and freeride.
I LOVE THIS BIKE!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Ian a Downhiller from Powell River, British Columbia
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:Valentine Mt.
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $2750.00
Purchased At:Suncoast Cycles
Strengths:everything
Weaknesses:my front wheel is a little weak.... and my breaks could be better. little sketchy on tight trails
Similar Products Used:giant ac, kuwahara peice, norco sasquatch, santa cruz bullit, norco vps fluid
Bike Setup:marzocchi DJ3, alex supra BH pro rear wheel, DP20 front wheel, hayes sole brakes, hussefelt cranks, tioga factory DH tires, deore rear derailer, kona dj seat, and other easton parts
Bottom Line:best bike i have ever riddin. accelerates really well, manuals fairly nicely, really sweet for dirt jumping. i've only riddin it for a few weeks so i might post another review later on. over all this bike is sweeeeeeeeeeet and santa crus is the best company out there
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by kory bourassa a Weekend Warrior from fort macleod
Date Reviewed: May 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $1700.00
Strengths:i didn't write the last review, cuz i love this bike! it's a hell of a djer and it's one of the easiest bikes to manuel that i've ridden yet, it's got a wicked strong frame
Weaknesses:brakes need to be better
Bottom Line:i like this bike!
Value Rating:4Overall Rating:5

Submitted by kevin mortensen a Downhiller from el cajon
Date Reviewed: February 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:thats a secret
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $300.00
Purchased At:ebay
Strengths:bullit proof
Weaknesses:weight
Similar Products Used:norco
Bike Setup:firefly plus fork 6inches plus travel, truativ cranks, rynolite xl on shimano xt hubs, hayes disc brakes, easton bars and stem, titec telescoping seat post.
Bottom Line:great bike, I have been hucking and downhilling this bike and i love it, I have even gone to balboa park here in San Diego and done some urban riding. A bike will never make you a better rider, but this frame is really nice and compliments my riding
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Chandler a Weekend Warrior from ontario,canada
Date Reviewed: February 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $500.00
Purchased At:outside store
Strengths:awesome frame, great geometry, really stong, versitile(can be single speed),wicked looking
Weaknesses:just a bit heavy, but my complete bike is only 29 lbs.
Similar Products Used:santa cruz chameleon, dmr sidekick, neither compares
Bike Setup:manitou flick fork,hayes 8" hydros,full xt,singletracks, race face diabolus cranks,post,stem, easton bar,king headset,e13 guide
Bottom Line:the bike is sweet and the best for its use, i can ride street,dj, and some freeride, if you get the bike get an adjustable fork, with 90-100mm travel the geometry is amazing for dj/street...
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by TheStupidAsian a Weekend Warrior from HMB, Ca, US
Date Reviewed: February 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:one mile, boyscout
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $1050.00
Purchased At:BIKE WORKS!!!!
Strengths:Nice frame design, great components other than the dj, the lifetime warranty on the frame.
Weaknesses:no chainguide my damn chain falls off every other minute its a pain. Also the hubs are weak as hell mines like broken already. Wishing it came with different fork so i can do other stuff with it like more downhilling and riding up so like a vanilla rlc i guess
Similar Products Used:u dont wanna know a rec bike!!!! its down to the ruins
Bike Setup:stock other than a new seat clamp and chenged the zipties lol
Bottom Line:Great bike for the price easy to manuvuer on courses great design and looks. But it needs to come with better hubs and a chainguide definatly possibly maybe different fork thats it bottom line. if u wanna do freeriding and djing get this hardtail its worth the money.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:4

Submitted by Jack L a Weekend Warrior from Indiana
Date Reviewed: December 3, 2005
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Purchased At:priceless
Strengths:The geometry of this bike seems to be as close to perfect as it get's. I think Santa Cruz has perfected the bicycle with this one. Im not to sure why everyone seems to be crying about the heavy fork, myself I dont really want light weight parts on my DJ bikes.
Weaknesses:There is no weakness here, if your looking for a bike with weakness look for something like a Bruiser now there we have some weakness. Or it may just be the guy's that ride them.
Similar Products Used:Sledgehammer
Bike Setup:Stock
Bottom Line:The bottom line here is this is one bad bike. I thought I could hit some sweet jumps on my Sledgehammer, but the jumps on the Jackal are much sweeter.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by emri roy a Weekend Warrior from calgary alberta
Date Reviewed: November 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:giantacid4@hotmail.com
Duration Product Used:1 Year
Price Paid: $500.00
Purchased At:bow cycle
Strengths:the frame is very strong and its warrenty is very good. it also looks very good built up with a street build they also make horizontil drop outs for it so thats good.
Weaknesses:the chain stay is too wide so the chain hits it quite a bit and makes a nice little groove in the frame and added drop outs have a weird brake design. also the down tub is in the way for no foot can cans but the bike supermans amazing!
Similar Products Used:none
Bike Setup:2005 pike sl dual 24inch wheels hook worms
Bottom Line:jackels are a great frame but santa cruz should change the drop out design
Value Rating:4Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Brian Smith a Downhiller from Edmoton
Date Reviewed: November 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:Urban
Duration Product Used:6 months
Price Paid: $500.00
Purchased At:local shop
Strengths:Geo, Strong as hell, nice design.
Weaknesses:none chainguide, fork
Similar Products Used:kona, cove
Bottom Line:powerfull bike, weight almost 32 lbs without the marzocchi, good for urban, dirt and a little dh, the best bike out there. buy it
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Shawn Goodman a Racer from edmonton
Date Reviewed: September 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:Street, Dirt, DH
Duration Product Used:6 months
Price Paid: $1500.00
Purchased At:Local shop
Strengths:stiff, good look , average components
Weaknesses:Heavy Fork, buy a pike or sherman if you dont want a herniated disk.
Similar Products Used:kona stuff
Bike Setup:same as bike come
Bottom Line:Excellent for urban, dirt...... the best bike out there fight with the black market MOB
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Stevo a Weekend Warrior from Winnetka, IL, USA
Date Reviewed: September 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:urban
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $500.00
Purchased At:PONY SHOP
Strengths:this thing is indestructable, it takes air like nothing before. it manuals and wheelies like a dream. and it is very different from everything else out in the hardtail market.
Weaknesses:none yet, maybe a little heavy, but who cares
Similar Products Used:Santa Cruz Chemeleon, Giant STP's, Cannondale Chase, Specialized P. / Hardrock
Bike Setup:pike, deity drive train, juicy's 6 inch, e13 STS, double wides laced to hope hubs.
Bottom Line:this bike kicks for urban, street, DJ and everything u can immagine. i love it and wouldnt trade her for anything
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Colin a from Santa Monica, CA
Date Reviewed: September 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:City Park (Austin,TX)
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $1900.00
Strengths:GEOMETRY, I could always stand on my back wheel no problem, but was never great at wheelies or manuals...say goodbye to those days! Wheelies, manuals, bunnyhops, drops, dirt...I'm in love
Weaknesses:No chainguide mounts
Similar Products Used:Nothing compares
Bike Setup:Nixon Platinum, Diabolus Cranks and Stem, Race Face NEXT carbon/ti bars, 8" Juicy Seven's, DT Swiss FR 6.1d w/onyx hubs, sram X.0 grip/RD, Speedplay Drillium pedals, Chris King Headset, E-Thirteen STS guide & bash, panaracer fire fr tires.
Bottom Line:Get one, you'll love it...
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Harry Green a from Rowayton, CT, USA
Date Reviewed: September 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:planet earth
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $1700.00
Purchased At:smartcycles
Strengths:everything. looks sick. rides better. what more could you want?
Weaknesses:none
Similar Products Used:p3 and morphine
Bike Setup:marz z-1 freeride, shimano hydros and derailer. race face cranks.
Bottom Line:if you got the money than buy this bike. you wont be disapointed. i dont know what this guy who's saying it only good for dirt jumping is talking about. i will admit it does it best work in the dirt but there is nothing wrong with this bike for street riding. the very bottom line is if your looking for a bike in the urban/jumping catogory this is the only bike worth owning.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Nigel Kam a Weekend Warrior from Port Moody, BC
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:A-line, Eagle
Duration Product Used:6 months
Price Paid: $2200.00
Purchased At:Steed Cycles
Strengths:The bike is very very sturdy. Looks slick. Sweet components cept the marzocchis!!! This bike is super perfect for djing and street!! amzing manuels can be puller on dis beauty. sweet bike and the deal
Weaknesses:THe stupid DJ's!!! Came wit no chainguide (2200 bike!!!) otgher than that its alll good
Similar Products Used:Norco sasquatch 2003, Norco shore 2003
Bike Setup:Stock cept i have a E-13 chainguide on it.
Bottom Line:I totlay need to get a new fork (pike team) but i have no money :( But this bike is totaly worth the money!!! Been havin great rides wit dis. Bike is solid and low stand over height. Get horizontil dropouts if u can.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by John Holland a from NJ
Date Reviewed: July 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:Urban
Duration Product Used:6 months
Price Paid: $499.00
Purchased At:Local bike shop
Strengths:Geo, stiff, nice look.
Weaknesses:none...... in the complete bike, the dirt jumper fork.
Similar Products Used:Norco 4 hun
Bike Setup:truvativ cranks, hayes brakes, mtx rims, e13 guide.
Bottom Line:i bought only the frame and put my favorite set up, but i tested the complete bike, and was amazing too, maybe the worst component is the fork, HEAVY......., if you put another fork your bike will be under 30 lbs....perfect for street and dirt...excellent bike.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Dudley Coulter a Weekend Warrior from Marathon Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:Anywhere good!
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $2400.00
Purchased At:Cyclepath
Strengths:Not a bad weight, looks sweet, has Truvativ Holzfeller, and most of the parts are gvery good. Avid brakes work quickly for mechanical.
Weaknesses:For a 2400$ bike I don't understand why they put a Dirt Jumper three on it, but youir paying for the frame, take off the fork and this bike would be amazingly light.
Similar Products Used:Jamis Komodo FX, Haro Shift
Bike Setup:All stock parts so far, except for a new seat clamp.
Bottom Line:This bike is sweet! The geometry of the frame is mint. This bike deserves two thumbs up. It is also really easy to maual and catwalk on. But if you are planning on downhilling or intense freeriding. this nike isnt for you! But come on its a Santa Cruz and it was desinged by Kirt Vories!!!
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Shawn Smith a from Edmonton
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:Urban, DH
Duration Product Used:3 months
Price Paid: $1500.00
Purchased At:Alberta bike shop
Strengths:Very Solid,design , Good lock, Stiff, is not heavy
Weaknesses:none, maybe the fork very very heavy, come without chainguide
Similar Products Used:kona cowan (sucks)
Bottom Line:Conclusion, perfect design for urban and dirt, good components, (not the marzocchi heavy as hell), change it and you will have a excellent bike, i bought a pike and now my bike is under 30 lbs, less than a cowan!!, mmmm and buy a chainguide or use the horizontal dropouts....this bike is the real deal.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Danny Way a Racer from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: April 24, 2005
Favorite Trail:Street, Dirt, DH
Duration Product Used:Less than 1 month
Price Paid: $499.00
Purchased At:Cambria
Strengths:Good components, very Solid, stiff as hell, aluminum soldering work,nice look, geometry, and you dont brake that frame never. good components, the weight is not a problem like the people say) , it´s lighter than p3 and the kona kowan.
Weaknesses:None, it is perfect.....Marzocchi Dirt Jumper, the worst thing in that bike (that`s make it heavier)
Similar Products Used:p3, Kona kowan
Bottom Line:ok, it is perfect for street and biggest for dirt jumping, easy for make bunny hops, manuals etc. the fist thing that i did when i rode this bike was, take the marzocchi cause weights a ton and put other.... like a pike.... and change the tires..... Excellent bike......I repeat, IT IS NOT HEAVY,throw away that Dirt jumper 3 and problem solved.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:5

Submitted by Alex a Racer from Santa Cruz, Ca
Date Reviewed: March 4, 2005
Duration Product Used:Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:Another Bike Shop
Strengths:This bike is an EXCELLENT dirt jumper. You can pull anything on it, and still feel very solid in the air.
Weaknesses:Its not much good for anything else.
Similar Products Used:SC Chameleon, Azonic DS-2
Bottom Line:This bike is for the dirt jumper alone. Not street, not freeride, dirt jumping. Its geometery is all off for downhilling, and is not versitle enough for street. If you want to do street, get a Chameleon.
Value Rating:5Overall Rating:4






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