Submitted by
Max
a Cross Country Rider
from Connecticut Date Reviewed: June 17, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
supa-go
Strengths:
Goes over everything. Handlebars are wide like riding a tank. Extremely plush around turns, just lean in and the suspension will kick you back out nice and fast. Brakes work. Titec and rock shocks make me happy.
Weaknesses:
Swing arm cracked by pivots within first couple months. Schwinn replaced it under warranty it was just a beotch to wait for it in the shop. Tires do blow. Chain is all over the place. Would like something more adjustable. Hydraulic brake cable is annoying.
Similar Products Used:
For one or two test rides: GT LTS 1 (99ish) C-dale jekyll 900sl jamis dakar sport. hardtails galore
Bike Setup:
almost all stock (Judy 100, Rock Deluxe, Hayes, titec, mavic) only upgraded little things- platform pedals chain tensioner front derailler
Bottom Line:
This bike is fun. Beaten it up and it still holds its own, and myself. Climbing can be bad. steep hills arent really its thing, but most hills are okay. drops nice, turns great, im extremely pleased.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from washington Date Reviewed: September 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Phils Cyclery
Strengths:
Hayes brakes are awesome Great deal only spent 800 dollars fs bike
Weaknesses:
the damn sweaking is terrible Tioga tires
Bike Setup:
new rear tire
Bottom Line:
It is an awesome bike. Likes to go fast. Tioga tires are pretty crappy. Took out the sidewall running over something on the rear tire. Otherwise the bike rules. Thinking about getting 5.5 inch conversion from Stratos. Good job scwinn.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a Weekend Warrior
from Aurora, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Pink Starfish
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Planet
Strengths:
weight, overall riding stamina, and just about everything when it's custom.
Weaknesses:
Brake mount & stock rear rim
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Enduro
Bike Setup:
White Bros. FR3, hayes hydraulic, XT cranks, XTR rear derailleur, Titec Hellbent riser bar, Titec stem, Hard headed alloy seatpost, SGD bellair comp. saddle, Michelin wildgripper comp. (red), Azonic A-frame pedals, Mavic 517 front rim, Mavic 223 rear, race face taperlock BB
Bottom Line:
I just bought this bike from the owner of our local shop (it was his personal ride) for $1750 tax-in, and if it was brand new it would've ran me approx. $4300. I'm only 14, and my other bike was a begginer's peugot. I love this bike. It handles beutifely, and u can trust if for the scary stuff. BUY ONE!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Casper
a Downhiller
from Trenton Date Reviewed: March 26, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
This bike does well in pretty much everything. I mostly ride urban and nothing goes but the tires. It turns well at fast speeds. This bike is great. Thats pretty much it.
Weaknesses:
The rear shock. And i up-graded to bigger tires and wider rims.
Similar Products Used:
I don't know. The bike I had before this was a Huffy and that doesn't compare at all.
Bike Setup:
Bars: Pro-Taper Rimes: D321 Tires: Anything 2.3 Everything else is the same
Bottom Line:
This bike as it comes is great. The rear shock kinda sucks but it does the job. I love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BOBBY REDROOT
a Downhiller
from AUSTIN, TEXAS Date Reviewed: March 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
FOREST RIDGE, CITY PARK
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2405.00
Purchased At:
cycle 360
Strengths:
THE SUSPENSION ACTON OF THIS LAWWILL DESIGN IS SIMPLY PUT SUPURB. THE BIKE TRACKS EXTREMLY WELL. YOU CAN TAKE THIS BIKE INTO A 90 DEGREE TURN @ 100 MPH AND THE SUPPLENESS OF THE SUSPENSION JUST SUCKS YOU INTO IT AND SPITS YOU BACK OUT THE OTHER SIDE. THE REAR SUSPENSION ACTS COMPLETLEY INDEPENDENTLY OF THE FRONT (MARRIZOCHI Z1 CR). I BLEW UP THE STOCK SID SHOCK THAT CAME IN THE REAR SO THE BOYS AT MY SHOP HOOKED ME UP WITH A ROCK SOX COIL OVER OFF OF A 99 FOUR BANGER WICH I HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH WHAT SO EVER (AIR SHOCKS SUCK). THE SUSPENSION LOVES TO TAKE MODERATLY SIZED DROPS (4'-5') ANYTHING BIGGER THAN THAT I JUST REALLY HAVE NOT COME ACCROSS YET BUT I INTEND TO FIND OUT HOW IT TAKES THOSE AS WELL. I WOULD HAVE TO SAY THIS IS A PRETTY FLAWLESS SUSPENSION CONSIDERING THE LIMITED AMMOUNT OF TRAVEL THAT IT HAS, AND OH IT CLIMBS LIKE A BILLY GOAT IF YOU ARE ONE OF THOSE GUYS WHO REALLY CARES ABOUT THAT STUFF. I USE THIS BIKE FOR EVERYTHING URBAN ASSAULT, TRAIL RIDING AND DARE I SAY EVEN FREERIDING.
Weaknesses:
MAGNESSEUM LINKS IN THE REAR. I TOOK A KNARLEY DROP AT CITY PARK AND I LANDED IN A WOLLERED OUT SECTION FROM THE MOTOCROSS BOYS PLAYING IN THE MUD ALL DAY. ANYWAY WHEN I LANDED I KNOCKED MY REAR DERAILER INTO MY REAR WHEEL AND I SIMPLY PUT TORE THE HELL OUT OF THE REAR END. IT RIPPED A HUGE HUNK OUT OF THOSE DAMN MAGNESSUIM LIKS WHICH FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO MIGHT CARE ARE NOT CHEAP AND EVIDENTLY CAN NOT BE WARRENTEED THROUGH SCHWINN (THATS THE PROBLEM WITH BUYING A BIKE FROM A BIG BRAND COMPANY).
IF YOU PLAN ON DOING ANY SERIOUS RIDING YOU'LL NEED TO MAKE A FEW UPGRADES TO THE STOCK SETUP (RIMS, SHOCKS, & MAYBE THE BARS (I DIDN'T LIKE THE 1.5 RISE ON THE TITEC STUFF)) BUT ALL IN ALL A VERY GOOD BIKE THAT CAN DO A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING AND DO IT WELL. I AM A 6'5" 265LB RIDER SO I PUNISH MY BIKE EVERYTIME I GET ON IT. THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IS PRETTY MUCH FLAWLESS, EXCEPT FOR THE FACT THAT WHEN I PUT THE 99' ROCK SHOX COIL OVER ON AND ADJUSTED IT ALL THE WAY OUT THE CHAIN RUBS ON THAT MAGNESEUM LINKAGE WHEN YOU ARE IN THE BIG RING AND IN YOUR SMALLEST COG. BOTTOM LINE THE BIKE ROCKS CLIMBS GOOD DECENDS DEVILISHLY FAST IT IS A GREAT GO ANYWHERE DO ANYTHING BIKE AND IF YOU DON'T WEIGH AS MUCH AS A CADILAC THEN YOU MAY NOT HAVE THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THE COMPONETRY THAT I DID, THIS WAS MY 1ST FULL SUSPENSION BIKE AND I KINDA WISH I WOULD HAVE GONE BALLS TO THE WALL AND JUST GOTTEN SOMETHING WITH MORE TRAVEL BUT THE BIKE DOES WHAT IT IS DESIGNED TO DO WHICH IS PRETTY MUCH JUST ABOUT ANYTHING. FORGIVE MY SPELLING AND IF YOU LIKE BIG SIC KNARLEY DROPS JUST GO GET SOMETHING WITH 6" OR MORE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JESSE CONROY
a Weekend Warrior
from Rexford,NY,USA Date Reviewed: March 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the type that go down
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
freemans bridge sports
Strengths:
Great suspension setup, looks cool, disc brakes, you never want to get of off it.
Weaknesses:
Tioga tires.
Similar Products Used:
Standing ontop of a mountain with a rocket attached to me.
Bike Setup:
judy 100's, hayes fully hydrallic disc brakes, shimano deare dx clipless pedals, THE front and back fenders, itense odi grips, and more stuff that is cool.
Bottom Line:
I was lucky to get this bike because im only 15 butt thanks to freemans and my mom i know have it. The bottom line is it gets me down the mountain as fast as I want it to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from new york Date Reviewed: February 23, 2001
if it weren't for my bike shop i wouldn't be with my 4banger. it has treated me verry well going down the 9 ski mountains i've gone down and won me 2nd in my first downhill race. soon i will be buying the schwinn straight 8 with the bonus from the airforce. the 4banger is one of the best freeride bikes around. thank you so much FREEMANS BRIDGE SPORTS. u can see my bike at www.bhbl.net/~wpd17
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Longboard 1998
a Weekend Warrior
from Yorba Linda, CA Date Reviewed: February 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
JAX"S
Strengths:
Follow up Review:Since my last review....I have replaced the rear Mavic 223 and had a Mavic 517supwith Xt hub built.Overall the performance of the bike has been stellar.
Weaknesses:
Get rid of the rear Mavic 223 and replace with heavier gauge spoke and rim. Went through 8 spoke replacements.
Similar Products Used:
GT STS1000
Bike Setup:
Mavic rear 517 w/XT hub, Chris King Headset, XT Hollowtech cranks and Chainrings
Bottom Line:
I ride this bike a great deal and it is a great value. SuperGo has the All-Mountain (upgraded package)for $1499.00 Fantastic Deal
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from suburb of Vancouver,BC Date Reviewed: February 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I bought the frame and built my 4 banger like a tank with maybe the exception of the front fork. I weigh about 260 lbs on a good day (when I haven't eaten breakfast yet). With all that weight this bike has not even let out a creak or a grown on the trail. This is not through any lack of trying on my part. This is a very plush ride that doesn't bottom out as much as FS other designs under my weight. The bike itself is pretty robust. I think the '99 frame is a little beefier than the 2000 as the tubes are larger in the front triangle.
Weaknesses:
Hayes only rear mount. It was a real pain to mount my Maguras. I finally had to build an adapter myself. Also, Schwinn in Canada was not to helpful when I tried to upgrade to the 2000 4 banger rear linkage/brake mount. The only other (small)complaint is that I wish there would be more variety for the trunnion mounted rear shock but that's more me being nit picky.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn s20 Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Bomber Z5 front (haven't had any problems...yet) Stock rear Rockshox deluxe (w/850 lb spring) Magura Gustav Discs (8" front/6" rear) Race face stem and turbine cranks (180 mm) Shimano XT drivetrain SRam 9.0 hubs (F/R) w/Big Mammoth fat rims and Intense Comp 2.35 DH tires
Bottom Line:
The Bottom line is that I have found this to be a great bike. I originally got a sweet deal on the frame and for the money I couldn't get a decent FS for even close to what I paid. The weight is not an issue because a pound here or there won't make me any faster (I don't think anything would short of a Jet engine). It was built to take a lickin' and it's still tickin'. The one thing I didn't consider when purchasing was that this frame is easily upgradable. Put a Stratos in the rear and your choice of long travel front fork and your stylin' with about 5" to 6" of travel. This can be done cheaper then a MSP 6" kit for a FSR or any other bike for that matter. When I get the money I am going with a Stratos rear and a Boxxer front (w/20mm axle) to make it even sweeter. 5 frickin' chilis until she breaks in half!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
No SanBa
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: January 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Plush!!! Stable, looks great.
Weaknesses:
Frame cracked, that durned creaking!
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Dakar Team (wish I still had it)
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for WTB MotoRaptor tires, Thompson stem
Bottom Line:
(This is a follow-up review)
STRIKE ONE - After six months of relatively light riding, I discovered a hairline crack that wend more than 1/2 way around the seat tube just above the rear shock mount. This AMAZES me, since I weigh about 150 and don't do any serious downhilling or drops. The bike has never been crashed hard either. Also, this frame is now in it's 3rd year of existence and is the basis for Schwinn's new Straight Six. BTW, I discovered the crack while cleaning the bike.
STRIKE TWO - I took the bike into my LBS, they had a new front triangle from Schwinn within a week. However, the new frame is a 2000 model and the bushings won't work with the rest of the '99 bike. It's now been 4 weeks and still no bushings.
When it was in one piece, the bike was a joy. Very plush, predictable ride. A little heavy, but it just makes you a stronger rider.
I'll post another update after (if) I get the bike back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: November 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycle (Best friggin place)
Strengths:
FUN FUN FUN...anyone who wants an awesome freeride bike should look into this particular bike. Good parts (time pedals and hayes disc brakes were along the good stuff...but one word sums it up; "PLUSHNESS!!!!"
Weaknesses:
Stock Tires partly shredded (knobs were coming off) on test ride...but i'd already had too much fun with this bike to say no...creaky carbon swingarm??? or maybe the rear shock? Is it heavy?-Yes and no...considering Schwinn based it on their downhill technology and converted it to a "x-country" type bike...yes there is added weight BUT surprisingly, I got used to the weight after one good hard day of riding...this bike actually does fairly well uphills too!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Ground Control, Gary Fisher Sugar Series, Gary Fisher X-Caliber, Giant Ds/1
Bike Setup:
Stock except easton carbon monkeylite handlebars, Velociraptor Front Tire and a Specialized Team Master rear tire...wooo and you can't forget the extra water bottle cage...
Bottom Line:
Good Stuff...wonderful bike for x-country but a better bike for freeride weekend rides, etc...Dunno how it holds up downhill i've been told that the Mavic 223 Disc rims are fragile and break easily under pressure...but i weigh a measly 120 so i think they should be fine...Definitely replace the stock tires BEFORE you actually go mountain biking...watchout for the "lawhill" chainstay..there was a recall on those things cause the pivot points cracked? Other than that, if you dont weigh a lot, look into carbon handlebars, carbon seatpost, maybe even a lighter fork but has the same plushness (such as a SID 100 maybe?)Back shock was ok didnt blow out on me overall good choice of parts (cept the tires)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron (Timberibs)
a Weekend Warrior
from charlotte, Michigan Date Reviewed: November 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Custer,Battle Creek/Agusta MI.
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
eric's
Strengths:
This bike has an awesome componet setup. Have rode the bike for two seasons with little effort to keep in great riding shape. Travel both front and rear is great. RS judy performs without a hitch. just now rebuilding this winter after a ton of riding this past year!
Weaknesses:
What's with the Squeeks? Anybody know how to quiet this thing down? Carbon Fibre upper arm/pivots?? My "wrench" has been unable to get to it... Any suggestions?
Similar Products Used:
S-20 prreviously owned
Bike Setup:
Stock except WTB pedals,xtr rear cassette,bb,crank,derailiers upgrades and Michelin Hot S tires.
Bottom Line:
Great all around Rock Shox/Lawill travel. If I could get the thing to keep quiet I would be totally in love! Hayes Hydro brakes are bike AND show stoppers!!Performs better than bikes costing alot more money!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LongBoard1998
a Weekend Warrior
from Yorba Linda, CA Date Reviewed: November 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything covered w/ Dirt
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Awesome bike for the price. You can't beat the components. Susupension is awesome
Weaknesses:
Crappy stock tires (Lasted a couple of weeks)
Similar Products Used:
GT - LTS, FSR
Bike Setup:
Chris King Headset and new tires my only additions
Bottom Line:
Great uphill, downhill..... all of the above. SMOOOOOTH downhill. Just a tad heavy .....just get used to it. Ride one and you will buy one. Graet for someone who rides everywhere and everything
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
El Santo
a
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: October 24, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to the one below. Turns out the sqeak was coming from the headset- specifically the steer tube. Needed a squirt of lube, and now it is great.
BUT, I found another problem. Who the hell puts straight 15 gauge spokes on a freeride bike?! Two weekends in a row I broke spokes. Bummer.
Still has my vote for the chilis, though. One hell of a bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
El Santo
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: October 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Tunnel
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1515.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
Unbelievably plush (front and rear), Hayes disk modulation is incredible, relatively light for a freeride rig, cheap as dirt, great geometry (done some *huge* rides- 30 miles, 4000 feet of climbing, and was comfortable in the cockpit the entire time), looks and performs tough.
Weaknesses:
I have a creak that is like chinese water torture. Not the bottom bracket- it is coming from the rear suspension. I gotta go out and get a torque wrench to be able to put the rear suspension back together, and haven't done it yet.
Similar Products Used:
FSR, Bullit
Bike Setup:
stock sans the tires (3 weeks and I shredded them down to bead). The technicians at Tioga were smoking all the good rubber. The Tiogas suck almost as bad as Mythos.
"stock" means: Hayes Disks, DT-Hugi/Hayes hubs, Mavic 223 rims, Titec risers and stem, XT mega-9 setup, Time clipless, Judy 100mm in front, Rock Shox in back, Lawill carbon-fiber swingarms. Very trick for $1500.
Bottom Line:
I ride this thing hard. I live in socal, lots of very technical rocky chutes, and the rear suspension eats almost everything. It has saved my life a number of times on the drop offs, absorbing the majority of the hits (can still feel the trail, which I think is a good thing, it just smooths it out like a good FS bike should). The brakes are unbelievable. For a SAT-style analogy, V-brakes:Cantilevers as Disks:V-brakes. As soon as I start to skid, I can let off slightly, regain traction, and still be slowing down... on the Widowmaker. Modulation, folks. Good stuff.
As far as the climbs, well, I would never race this thing XC. It definitely goes, it is just a little slower on the uphill than my HT. It weighs in at 30lbs, and I can say that my XC riding endurance has gone up since I started pushing this bike up and down in the Santa Monicas for the past few months. Getting on my hardtail is like taking off the ankle-weights.
For the price, you couldn't possibly beat it. By far the most fun I have had in the saddle of *any* bike. If you have a good fitness base and good bike handling skills, and want to step up to the freeride plate, the 4 banger is for you. If you want to squash expert-class XC racers, this is not the bike for you.
Be the ball.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from Dyer,IN Date Reviewed: September 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Brakes, fun factor
Weaknesses:
Pivots
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension
Bike Setup:
Stock except xt shifters.
Bottom Line:
This is the second time a pivot bolt has snapped. First time it was on the chainstay and it was replaced. This time it is on the main frame near the same pivot. I love this bike, it rides lighter than what it is and is tons of fun.If anybody else has had the same problem e-mail me and let me know how it was handled and if you are satsified with the service from schwinn.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dan
a Weekend Warrior
from denver Date Reviewed: September 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
porcupine rim (moab)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1625.00
Purchased At:
hardsports
Strengths:
The holy grail of all things bike. This bike climbs better than some bkes with half the travel. It descends like theres no tomorrow. Only a gram counting wuss would care about the wieght and you could lighten it up if your that bad.
Weaknesses:
I broke a bushing in the shock mount after a year and a half of beating the crap out of this bike
Similar Products Used:
K2 flying monkey FSR
Bike Setup:
stock other than I flattened a rear rim
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a bike that can do anything and everything, here it is. I work at a bike shop and we get everyting in. I've test riden 'em all but this is still the best. The judy is the best shock rock shox has ever made. There is even a kit by stratos to get 5 1/2 inches out of the rear. And the brakes are awesome, I've had the bike for two years and I just barely got new brake pads. This bike is awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego Date Reviewed: August 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ANY
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Way too much bang for the buck! This bike rolls through anything you throw at it. The suspension works great - Lawhill knows what he's doing! The brakes are fantastic!
Weaknesses:
Stock tires suck. One good downhill and it's time to replace them! All the other components are so good Schwinn had to cut corners on the treads.
Similar Products Used:
Cannodale Jekyll Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike provides a fantastic setup for free-riding at a downright reasonable price. Considering most specific bikes cost thousands more this is a sweet ride! Aside from the tires I can't find anything wrong with it. After spending too many years as a devoted hard-tail rider, this was an excellent step up to the big time. I ride upwards of 75 miles a week, with most of it being on this bike. The ride is so smooth I prefer to ride it even on the street to get to the trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy B
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodside, CA USA Date Reviewed: July 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
If its dirt...it works for me
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Everything....This bike kicks a§§. I preforms as well if not better then most bikes 2X the price. The components are awsome and this bike just soaks up the bumps. I got mine for $1515 out the door. The Hayes brakes stop you on a dime and look totally awsome. I had my bike down at a restraunt/bar outside today and everyone that walked by stopped to look at it.
Weaknesses:
Nothing...but when you frist get it dont pedal backwards for a while because the REAL Hubs have lots of grease in them and half to be broken in and if you pedal backwards then the chain goes down into the gears.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing in this price range.
Bike Setup:
Stock but I put PR1MO Super Tenderizer Platform pedals on it. Awsome pedals by the way!
Bottom Line:
This bike is worth every penny. It is a hell of a preformer at a half the cost. I am in love with this bike, I have not found any faults with it and it handles jumps, bumps, jolts, like a dream. People say that they have a lot of truble with the rear Rock Shox Delux but I have found this to be not true as it works great. I also love the front Judy forks, thay take the biggest bumps with no truble at all. I climbed 5 miles up hill with this bike yesterday and it preformed really well so dont listen to those people who say that it cant climb. Handeling is awsome on tight technical trails at fast speeds. The Bottom line is I dont know how I lived with out it for so long. Buy this bike and you wont have to buy another for a very very long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Budd Green
a Weekend Warrior
from Fresburg California USA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Solid on the downhills and quick handling abilities. The Rock Shox Tango thangy lives up to it's name. Disk brakes are rad. Takes big hits with a plushness.
Weaknesses:
Stock tires suck balls...they drift before they grab in dry conditions. The saddle starts to bugg after a while. The 0 degree stem needs an uprising say 10 to 25 degrees. Watch the rear swingarm behind the bottom brakett. The lower swing arm has been known to break where it bolts on around the ball bearing pivot. Watch for those stress cracks and contact your nearest Schwinn dealer ASAP.
Similar Products Used:
Specialzed FSR???
Bike Setup:
Still Stock
Bottom Line:
Over all the bike makes for a sturdy freeriding machine... A bit on the stout side but thank god for 9speed. I would recommend one to any body looking for a good buy to go mail order. Although they won't ever admit that they ever purchased a @#$% load from Schwinn in 99 for cheap as hell. As long as you can find a shop with your size in stock your pretty much stoked when you get such a rad package for less than MSRP. Can you say VELO SCHLUZER???
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jefff
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: May 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hawes, Mesa AZ
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
P L U S H! Great brakes. Despite all the horror stories, the 9-speed drivetrain actually works well.
Weaknesses:
Horrible stock tires. Rear Tioga showed wear after the first 5 miles of use. Judy 100 fork is great now, but I have never been a big fan of Rock Shox. If it blows up, I'll get a Z1, no problem. Also, this bike's suspension could really use some rebound control, both front and rear.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Thompson seatpost and WTB EnduroRaptor tires.
Bottom Line:
Went from a 24.5 lb. Jamis Dakar to this bike, wanted more travel and a more-plush ride. I got what I wanted! The additional weight is an issue, but the downhill stability and more comfortable ride more than make up for the additional effort it takes to climb.
Paid $1299, that's close to half-price. Can't really complain about the value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Aptos CA Date Reviewed: May 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lower rock creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This bike loves tight rocky single track. The suspension lets you run right over just about anything and the brakes let you stay in complete control
Weaknesses:
Stock Tioga tires suck. throw them away. Saddle is lame Seams right where your crotch will rub. no thanks
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock except for new saddle and a set of WTB Velociraptor 2.1s swapped out fork springs for firm set
Bottom Line:
If you are a rider that likes to charge down[or up] technical singletrac. wants a bike that has no seals to blow on you in the middle on nowhere leaving you with no suspension, and can stop you when you fly into a switch- back way to fast. Buy this bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Venkata Tho
a Downhiller
from Lansing, MI USA Date Reviewed: April 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fort Custer BC, MI
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
All around great deal. Hayes disc, rock shox 100, lawwill frame.
Weaknesses:
maybe weight, but it has 27 gears so it isn't much of a problem!
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn S-Carbon
Bike Setup:
OEM, pedals changed to platform
Bottom Line:
i have wanted this bike since schwinn first released it. I love the ride. I may need to get a stiffer spring, it seems that i bottom out way to often. i have done some different setups, but this maybe best option.
i have only had it for a week, but this bike is top notch.
will submit later to followup
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Weekend Warrior
from new york Date Reviewed: March 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any trail that goes down
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
everything from front to back.
Weaknesses:
alittle heavy
Similar Products Used:
trek vrx200
Bike Setup:
98 judy xlc and shimono 636
Bottom Line:
Schwinn made a darn good bike and i hope there bike will live up to it's name and my expectations. the bike feels great and looks great.
steamboat springs, co darn good mountain to bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a Cross Country Rider
from austin, tx Date Reviewed: February 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
champions
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
versatility. handling, rear traction. value
Weaknesses:
skinny tires
Similar Products Used:
kona stinky
Bike Setup:
2000 model Sid 100/sid air. 110mm stem
Bottom Line:
really fun bike! wasn't sure what to expect(never owned long travel) Really pleased. Carves well.Plush, but not sloppy, accelerates good (though heavy) Great climbing traction. Awesome brakes. Wheels are machine built and had 5 extra nipples rattling around in rim cavity. Use of alloy nipples questionable, too.Great bike for all-around, exploring, or epic ride usage.Not for NORBA XC-types. Really happy with it. Hope it stays reliable. 4 bloody gaulbladders now, 5 later if it holds up.
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Submitted by
James Harris
a Downhiller
from Calgary, Alberta Date Reviewed: October 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Wisky Jack & Pokatara
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Down Hill & Dual Slolom
Weaknesses:
Climbing
Similar Products Used:
I own this gike and it rides Awsom on dual slolom cources, downhill's & large drop off's
Bike Setup:
F- Rock Shox Judy 100 R- Rock Shox Coupe Deluxe Coil Hayes Hydrolic Disc Brakes
Bottom Line:
the Bike is awsom and me and my friends love it
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Harris
a Downhiller
from Calgary, Alberta Date Reviewed: October 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any Down hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Every thing
Weaknesses:
Are you Joking???
Similar Products Used:
- Trek VRX 400 - Rocky Mountain Pipeline
Bike Setup:
F- RockShox Judy 100 R- RockShox Coupe Deluxe Brakes- Hayes Hydrolic Disc
Bottom Line:
The bike is well worth it
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derrick schumsky
a Cross-Country Rider
from Auburn,WA Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
tiger,mountain
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The disc are bad ass the Lawill rear 27 gears every thing about this bike rules schwinn knows what their doing
Weaknesses:
absolutely none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Toby henderson front fender
Bottom Line:
this bike kicks ass
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Capone
a Weekend Warrior
from NC Date Reviewed: September 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
yancees ridge
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Hayes brakes, Lawill rear end,Time
Weaknesses:
That Judy thing on the front,LX cogs chew up the freehub bobobobobobob
Similar Products Used:
C-dale super V,UZZI SL, Kona king
Bike Setup:
Zoke jr T,XT cog set
Bottom Line:
2 grand for full susp.,hayes hydro and a nice mix of parts,what a bargan.Takes a while to set the ride hight(head angle) to match your riding style.Pedal smooth and this bike rips!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: September 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Soquel Demonstration Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Handles well, goes where you point it, spectacular brakes
Weaknesses:
Awful fork, bio-paces during climbs, not enough rear suspension travel, no damping adjustment
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS
Bike Setup:
The stock Judy 100 is very lame. I installed a Judy XL and the bike works much better
Bottom Line:
It's a pretty good bike. It's not as good as my LTS was when it was new. My LTS wore out, and I replaced it with the Schwinn. The brakes are fantastic!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Racer X
a Racer
from Maryland Date Reviewed: July 10, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
-great handling -awesome rear suspension design -great component spec -value for the money
Weaknesses:
NONE!
Similar Products Used:
K2: 900, 1000, 4000 Spec. FSR XC, FSR XC Comp, FSR, FSR Sport Marin: Rock Springs, Rift Zone Klein Mantra Race Voodoo Zobop GT LTS 1000 DS GT XCR 3000, 4000 Kona: Manomano, Mokomoko Mongoose: 8.5, 8.1
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is such an awesome bike!The bike handles precisely; point and shoot describes the bike's demeanor. Simply pick the fastest line and the bike will track straight through the rubble.Mert Lawwill's suspension design is by far the best that I have ridden. Hey, Tomac licensed the design to apply to the Tomac DH and DS bikes, now I know why. The three main front pivots are supported by bearings which keep everything precise and slop free. And you gotta love the carbon fiber upper linkage, super trick.This bike is set up similar to what Schwinn spec'd except... You get one special goody, Hayes Full Hydraulic disc brakes. Apparently, even the Moab 1 comes with the Hayes hydraulic brakes, must have a special deal, but the consumers end up winning on this one.This bike is such a deal, even at the local bike shop. The guys at Riverdale Cycle and Fitness in Riverdale, Maryland totally hooked me up with this bike. Although Supergo has them beat in terms of price, service and assembly quality sets these guys apart from the rest. I gladly paid a little more to support my local bike shop. Give these guys a visit and they will give you awesome service and knowledge.
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Submitted by
RP
a Weekend Warrior
from Bandung Date Reviewed: July 4, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
value for money hydro disc brake choice of components
Weaknesses:
some bobs on climbing doubtful strength on swingarm heavy
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS-1 Santa Cruz Heckler TREK VRX 300
Bike Setup:
stock (for the moment)
Bottom Line:
i can't go wrong with the price i've got it's US$1699 thanks to SUPERGO (LA,CAL.).the problem is that the bike bobs when climbing, BUT i rarely climb so the problem somewhat does not applysome part of the swing arm is made of carbon-ish material...i break carbon...but i think SCHWINN put it there for some (good) reason and i don't think they're gonna let me down...right SCHWINN?!?yes it is heavy BUT i've borrow some lighter components from friends such as SID, XTR drive train, Ti comp....and you know what? it weights close to my hard tail (TREK8500, judy sl, xt/xtr)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Precious Roy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: June 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
poached
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
plush attractive
Weaknesses:
weight weight weight oh, it bobs when climbing too
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra
Bottom Line:
A pal let me borrow his 4-Banger on a recent ride. Yes, its plush, but my god, what a pig. For chairlift/car shuttle riders, this might be an ideal rig, but if you have any hills in your area, look elsewhere. Im glad I rode it, if only to know that freeride bikes arent my bag, baby!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Augered_in
a Cross-Country Rider
from Tempe, AZ Date Reviewed: April 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
National, Ridgeline...and any good poached hike trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Hydro+Hydro = Stoping power and control.The disc brakes cant be beat it is what sells this bike in its $$$ range. Ability to change the bikes geometry...I would ride this bike up/down anything!
Weaknesses:
Couldn't stand riding a marshmellow over tech climbs...wheel base setup is key!P.s It's a little pudgy about middle
Similar Products Used:
Migrated from GT-rts3 GT i-drive Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
OEM - needed many hours to find good setting for varried conditions.
Bottom Line:
I wanted to return the bike my first week but, once you get the setup...lookout!Bang away!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Moab
a Weekend Warrior
from Cols.,Ohio Date Reviewed: March 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Tsali,NC
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Handles great for a FS.No bob at all when climbing.Climbs well for a FS.Disc brakes rule!!On the DH's the bike was well mannered and in control...Can handle anything you throw at it.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
the stock bike..no modifications
Bottom Line:
For the price ...you get more for your money here than other FS in the price range.Would reccommend this bike for someone whoi wants to ride xc but still likes the DH's too.Its a hybrid bike really so if you dont want a hardcors DH bike but still like some of the attributes this is the bike for you.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a cross-country rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: March 10, 1999
Bottom Line:
I spent a fair amount of time on this bike in Moab. We rented it for giggles. First off, this bike is heavy. My buddy got a hernia hefting it onto the roof of my Jeep and it flexed the bars on my Thule. It IS fun to jump this bike over ledges and other drop offs that exist around Moab. You don't even need to think about the landing, it is that forgiving. It does have a fair amount of side to side flex and provides tons of monkey motion, both of which make this bike somewhat unbearable to someone used to a hardtail. The disc brakes work really well, and the risers make the cockpit pretty comfy. We dubbed this bike the flying couch. It makes a fine rental, but I wouldn't want to live there. 4 stars because it provides the entertainment and non-stop laughs it was undoubtably intended to create.
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