Handelbar:Easton CT2 Carbon, Stem: Titec, Headset: Chris King, Shifters:Shimano M952 XTR, FDerailer Shimano XT Top swing Top Pull, Rear Derailer: Shimano XTR M952, Bottom Braket: 72 Shimano XTR Octalink 112, Crank: Shimano XTR M952 175, Pedals: Crank brothers Eggbeater Candys, Wheels: Mavic Cross Ride Disc, Tires: Hutchinson Fr Pyton, R Cyote, Brakes: Hayes HMX9's, Rotors: Hope Gothic, Seat: Selle Italia Genuine Gel Ti.
Bottom Line:
I bought this as a replacement for my stolen S20 Carbon. (The Gold version.) Bottom line, I love it! This bike is perfict. If you can put hydrolic disc on it please do as you will notice a big diference. Go Hayes. When I bought it on line, I bought it from an old guy who never rode it and it was in almost stock form. If you can get one please do you will not be disapointed. These are getting almost imposable to find now a days. I have raced the gold S20 I had in Northern Mich and had great results. This bike is better than all of its rivals (both now and then) because of the monoque carbon front end and because of the sweet spot pivot placement. There werent that many URT's made (Ibis Sasbo, Rocky Mountain Pipeline, Trek Y11, Y22, Y33) but this has everything a cross country racer could want. Having one pivot keeps things simple and the URT design seperates the drivetrain from the suspension so there is no interference between the two like there is on most other full suspension bikes. It turns heads and garnishes complaments where ever I go. I read a review that said the bike bobed, but that is only because the rider didn't adjust his seatpost properly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Italo
a Racer
from San Marcos , CA Date Reviewed: January 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
VAIL (TEMECULA)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
used from fellow biker
Strengths:
I absolutely love the design of the bike, I have only riden it a few times since purchase and will update further eventualy.
Weaknesses:
I am aprehensive of the fact that from my understanding the URT design limits the full capability of the rear suspension. Also ROCK SHOX components......they are not fairing to well on my appreciation scale.....
Similar Products Used:
GT full suspension LTS Specialized custom alloy hard tail
Bike Setup:
MAVIC, full XT components, Rock Shox Judy, and Niterider lighting (the next best thing since bikinis)
Bottom Line:
I purchased the bike from a fellow rider who bought for his wife and she rode it only 5x. It has been sitting in their garage for a few years and they let it go for 2 c-notes. I absolutely love the size of the bike and the layout of it. I am 5'11 and raced BMX so a smaller MTB frame is better suited to my comfort zone through fast descents. Schwinn over the years has gone down on the scale for MTB and I think this will be the product that even through it maintains their level of performaNCE HIGH. SIMILAR TO A one HIT wonder
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy Collins
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbus Date Reviewed: October 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Any and All
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
ebay.com
Strengths:
Everything! Its Perfection Personified!! This is the ultamate Mountain bike! It Climbs like a mountain goat on steroids, and Decendes like a bat out of hell!
Weaknesses:
The Parts you just can't get anymore. Schwinn quit making the best Mounatin bike they ever made!! Please Schwinn Make Replacement parts!
Similar Products Used:
GT RTS3, Trek Y11, Cannondale Super V, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR
Bike Setup:
Mavic Cross Ride Disc, Hayes HMX9, Sele Itlia sadle,
Bottom Line:
I had a S20 Carbon I bought at my local bike shop In Michigan New in 1999. I put a review of it on mtbr. I rode it for many years and am VERY PASSIONATE about it! I have been preching the values of URT design to anyone who will listen. I raced it in local races. It was stolen this past summer in Ohio. I searched all over ebay looking for the same bike. I found an S10 so I'm trying to build it up the way I had it. I still need the pair (2)seatpost clamps that came stock. If you have them and are willing to sell them plese let me know. But ultimatly I would still like to have my original Gold S20 back If I could. Thanks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy Collins
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbus Date Reviewed: April 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Ebay.com
Strengths:
It Climbs like a mountin Goat. Just like a hard tail. Decends great too. The Carbon fiber adds to all the sexyness and will not shatter under normal riding conditions no matter what anyone tells you. Gets lots of looks and complments everywhere you go. The longer you ride it the more you will fall in love with it. It has neutral and predictable handeling. With URT you don't have any brake Jacking, or pogoing, or bio-paceing to worry about.
Weaknesses:
it only accepts Hayes 22mm Hydrolic Disc brakes in the rear. Its a little heavy for a carbon frame but it can be made much lighter with the right parts. Rear Coil Shock should be upgraded to a Cane Creek Air shock for an XC set up bike. The Rock Shok Deluxe Coil shock has lots of Recoil. Don't sit untill after you've landed a jump. They are getting much harder and harder to find as time goes by.
Hayes Hydrolic Disc brakes, XT Front Derailer, XTR Rear Derailer, 175 XT Octagalink Crank, 73mm XT BB, Time ATTAC pedals, 1 1/8" ChrisKing Thredless Headset, Michelin Tires, Mavic wheels.
Bottom Line:
ASLOne of the gratest values in mountinbiking history. It is not the type of bike for you if you want to be fully suspened out of the saddle. If you want a bike that is both hard tail and full suspension than this is it. The pivot is in a much better place than any of its big competetors. This is the type of bike for people who don't want new just because its new and don't bye into all the hype. It may be dated now but it works very well and is very beautiful in its simplisity. You don't need some expensive multi-pivot bike to take on the best trails. Just remember to wrap the rear coil shock in a lizird skin so mudd and dirt doesn't get into it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kirk
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: December 19, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Efficient design, very reliable, comfrortable, looks
Bought the frame at Supergo, and built up the bike with XT parts. Overall, I think that this design is highly underrated. I agree with many of the posts that it does many things pretty well. I ride mostly XC, and haven't reached it's limits yet. The Cane Creek Ad-10 shock was an amazing improvement in ride quality. I'm not sure if there are any more new ones to buy, but used could be a real sleeper deal
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from Girdwood, AK Date Reviewed: July 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Resurection Pass
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Lighter than most hardtails, great components (xtr), good rims, crank, etc., VERY HOT LOOKING!
Weaknesses:
Judy blew up in first ten minutes, guess thats a rock shox deal, dull feeling that gets taking used to.
Similar Products Used:
Scott Comp Racing
Bike Setup:
Stock except replaced fork with Marz Z5 until I can afford a bigger one, also added a cheap riser bar.
Bottom Line:
A great bike, great frame, if you can still get one. I pound this thing and it really doens't effect it. Great climber since it is so light. The dull feeling is becaus ethe bike is carbon. The first ride will feel like your riding a plastic snowboard or something. But once you leanr ot handle it, it feels like a ferrari. LOVE THIS BIKE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sareth N.
a Weekend Warrior
from Greenwich, CT Date Reviewed: December 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Steep Rock, Washington, CT
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
frame at Bike Express, parts everywhere
Strengths:
good looks, no biopacing
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Had owned GT XI Xang titanium and Cannondale M2000
Bike Setup:
full XT drivetrain, Rock Shox Judy TT fork. strongarm II crank. CODA Expert wheels. built to my spec.
Bottom Line:
great looking bike. can't wait to take it on trail. will update later. Bought '15 frame for only 200 of the shelf. bought all parts seperately and only spent 1200 total not bad for a full XT system.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy McQuade
a Cross Country Rider
from Baden Ontario Date Reviewed: November 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Dundas Valley
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Ziggy's Cycle
Strengths:
Solid frame Climbs well Handles excellent
Weaknesses:
Cable routing Stock Mavic 221 rims Cheap Headset Chainsuck(Use the screw holes and put on the anti chainsuck device)
Similar Products Used:
Hardtail
Bike Setup:
Magura HS-11 with Altec Levers Manitou X-vert,RS Coupe Deluxe,Bontrager Race seatpost, Saddle, Stem, Mustang rims
Bottom Line:
This has been a great ride ! If you want to liven up the suspension on this bike consider a 4" travel fork. I noticed this a soon as I put the X-vert on. When you raise the front of the bike you change the sweet spot and increase the angle on the rear suspension. If you are pure XC and don't like going fast downhill you may not want to do this but for me this has been the best change to this rig. Don't have to be in the saddle for the rear suspension to work with the taller fork on the front.Still climbs great! Also for the bushing Englund slick Honey works great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graham Erickson
a Cross Country Rider
from San Luis Obispo, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: September 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
They're all Fun
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Bike Zone, Slidell, LA
Strengths:
Great Looks, Effective Design, STRONG!!!!
Weaknesses:
Cable Routing, Bushing for Pivot
Similar Products Used:
'96 Specialized Ground Control, Klein Mantra Race
Bike Setup:
Giro Fizik saddle, Kore lite 2 post & Elite skewers, Real Levers, Easton CT2 Monkey Lite Bar.
Bottom Line:
This bike is one worth a serious look. The suspension is designed to stiffen up when you stand (read: climbs well), and it really has almost no learning curve. It looks great, rides great, and chicks dig it. Don't freak out, I didn't get it for free by any means, but I'm not allowed to say how much I paid (employee purchase). No real complaints other than the pivot. It can be a bit sticky, and requires more maintenence than a sealed bearing design, but this also can be a benefit (no pogo). If you can snag the '99 (the last year of the S-Carbons) by all means get it. If you like mushy, long travel bikes, look elsewhere. This is a very efficient design.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arnold Nagy
a Weekend Warrior
from Solon, OH, USA Date Reviewed: September 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wain National Forrest
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Eddy's Bike Shop (Stow, OH)
Strengths:
Looks, Acceleration, weight front shock, parts for the price
Weaknesses:
Squicking sound at the sweet spot do to the hollow carbon frame (unfixable), the ugly and unconfortable seat, the Cable (break)routing is placed where all the mud cloges it up.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Tassahara (1998)
Bike Setup:
read the papers
Bottom Line:
I have to mention if i am here that i have broken two of my bones with this bike. First the right Colar bone, really bad scars on my hips, and elbows, and then later on this year, the left side Colar bone. It was the worst pain ever, but i mannaged to not go to the doctors, not be the average WUSSY that can't even handle a little pain. I previously broke my nose because of biking but that was long time ago. Anyhow, as i said, this bike is cool looking but it has its ups and downs, overall i would say to buy it cause its cheap for the parts they offer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ken appia
a Cross Country Rider
from center harbor Date Reviewed: August 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything techical
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
rigid construction. simple design
Weaknesses:
pivot is little sticky. cable rooting.
Similar Products Used:
profex 857
Bike Setup:
cane creek rear. total air cartridge front.
Bottom Line:
ok, lets get one thing straight. this bike is not a glorified seat post suspension bike. the reason for this is that the pivot location is in between the frame and the rear triangle,preventing trail shock to be transmmitted to the frame. On the other hand,a seat post suspension absorbes vibration that are coming from the frame. big difference. I have a trek hardtail equiped with a moab suspension seatpost.It offeres good level of comfort but no where near the level of control I get from the shwinn.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
FRANK RIVERA
a Weekend Warrior
from CHULA VISTA,CA., U.S.A. Date Reviewed: July 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
SAN DIEGUITO
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
THE COMPONENTS FOR THE PRICE. I PAID $999.99 OUT THE DOOR AT BIKEUSA IN SAN DIEGO. CAN'T BEAT THAT DEAL.
Weaknesses:
CABLE ROUTING ALONG SIDE HEAD TUBE, THE SEAT (HOW COME A BLACK/RED BIKE HAS TO COME WITH AN ORANGE/WHITE SEAT?).
Similar Products Used:
MONGOOSE, GARY FISCHER, SPECIALIZED
Bike Setup:
STOCK WITH SUPERGO WIRELESS COMPUTER AND EXTRA WATER BOTTLE CLAMP ON SEAT POST FOR BIKE PUMP, BLACK SCHWINN SEAT SIMILAR TO STOCK (OUCH!).
Bottom Line:
THE BIKE IS REALLY FUN TO RIDE AND I GET MANY COMPLIMENTS ON IT. I LOOKED AND LOOKED FOR A GOOD VALUE AND GREAT COMPONENTS AND COULD NOT FIND A BETTER VALUE. I HAVE RIDDEN SCHWINNS FOREVER AND THIS ONE IS AN EXCELLENT BIKE. THE SEAT COULD HAVE BEEN CHOSEN BETTER. IT SEEMS AS THOUGH THERE ARE BETTER SEATS OFFERED ON OTHER SCHWINN PRODUCTS.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sho Time
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington DC Date Reviewed: June 5, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Price, Frame Quality, Handling, attention to detail of frame, everything was aligned perfectly, chased, faced, etc... Oh... and Looks...
Weaknesses:
Cable routing???
Bike Setup:
X-Vert fork, XT drivetrain, EA-50 riser bar, Kore stem, Kooka brake levers, Ritchey peds, Mavic/Bontrager rims, Flite ti saddle, Panaracer fire XC, Control tech seatpost, etc...
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is: This is a great all-around bike. This bike handles singletrack like it's on rails. Definitely point-and-shoot. It climbs really well due to the rear suspension. Rocky, rutted, uphill filled with roots; no problem. The rear suspension sucks it all up. Downhill it tracks very well, and takes the edge of big hits. It is by no means is a "Downhill only" bike. When you're on the pedals, the rear end stiffens up considerably. But it still takes the edge off. One advantage on the downhills is that you can stay seated and mash the pedals and let the suspension work. The only time I can see this bike being out of it's element is on REALLY nasty downhills. Who should buy this bike: Anyone looking for a bike that can do it all. Who shouldn't buy this bike: Those who only go downhill.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Warren Soohoo
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose Date Reviewed: May 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Saratoga Gap
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great looks Pretty light frame for a Full-suspension Great design
Weaknesses:
Rockshox Delux Rear shock Not too cushy off the saddle Watch the seatpost length as there isn't much room to lower the saddle as it will touch the rear shock if lower too far.
Similar Products Used:
Litespeed Unicoil-Nice but not full-suspension Specialized FSR-Nice ride but with all those pivots, it appears high maintainance. Cannondale Jekyll-Too expensive GT I-Drive-Too heavy
Bike Setup:
Mixture of XT/XTR with XTR wheelset
Bottom Line:
I couldn't pass up the price on Supergo for this frame and transferred my parts over from my MB-1. This is one great Cross Country bike. It's no downhill bike by anymeans, but will decend better than a Unicoil, but not better than a FSR or Cannondale. But for a good all around bike, it's perfect for me.
On singletrack descents in the saddle or flat out over rough terrain, it's smooth, absorbs everything, and a blast.
For purely steep and narly descents off the saddle, it rides more like a hardtail, but better than a Unicoil.
Overall, it's a perfect Cross Country bike. It is by no means a Downhill bike. I'd like to try racing CC on it as soon as I get in shape. It climbs well enough, keeping the rear wheel in contact with the ground and when you get off the saddle honking, it reacts like a hardtail. Buy one if you can still get a hold of one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Gilroy, CA Date Reviewed: May 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Demonstration Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good solid design, Only one large pivot, low maintainance,great in the saddle and perfect for cross country riding. I've raced on it with no problems.
Weaknesses:
At 6.5 lbs with rear shock, it's not the lightest frameset with the Rockshox Delux. Rockshox Delux leaks, it's heavy and doesn't work too well. I replaced it with a Cane creek AD-10. I highly recommend it. Not a downhill type bike.
Bike Setup:
XTR all around, Manitou Mars Fork, Chris King front wheel & headset.
Bottom Line:
This is my 6 month follow-up. Since my last entry, I have upgraded to a Mars fork and lightened up a few parts thereby bringing down the total weight down to 25 lbs. Then I raced it at the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey just to see how it performs. It didn't disappoint. No I didn't win or even finished in the top half of my catagory, but boy did I have fun on this bike. It handles cross country riding to perfection. No it's not a downhill bike, but it can handle cross country type descents with ease with a large fun factor dailed in.
The fit is perfect for me and perhaps that is one of the main reasons why I like this bike. I have since then jumped on a Specialized FSR FS and it just feel as good. I'm sure it is an excellant machine,but the fit wasn't as good as the Schwinn.
This is a great all around bike with a few races thrown in for good measure to test one's abilities. Comfort is second to none that I tried and I've tried a lot of bikes lately. It climbs very well and is perfect for singletrack riding, especially if you are seated.
If there is a negative on this bike, it would be the Rockshox rear shock and it's not a pure downhill machine. Yes the rear shock still works off the saddle, but not as well as when you're in the saddle. I look forward to each ride on this machine. That is a testament to it's design. I'm sure I'll get plenty of years of fun on it. That is until my next purchase....
Great Value, Great bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tracy Hall
a Cross Country Rider
from Springfield, MO Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Waterfall Trail - Moran State Park, WA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Climbing ability, price vs. components, handling & downhill comfort
Weaknesses:
The lame seat!!
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose, Trek, Specialized, GT
Bike Setup:
Stock with Ritchey pedals & grips, Vetta AT seat(much nicer on the buns)
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price!! I have ridden it over all types of terrain and it handles great, climbs like a hardtail, decends smooth and rips on the flats. I'm 170 lbs, and from what I've read, I must be about the right weight for this bike because I've never bottomed out the rear shock, even on big jumps. The effect rear suspension is minimal when I'm on the pedals, but having ridden a hardtail for many years, it seems just fine to me. Great bike, great value!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Dearborn, MI, USA Date Reviewed: May 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Maybury
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very little pogo/biopace while climbing, stunning looks, you can bomb the trails and just hammer away in the saddle.
Weaknesses:
Nailing the front brake while seated can be interesting...major stoppies, a little heavy
Similar Products Used:
First FS bike - previous bike was a Schwinn Moab 2 Al.
Bike Setup:
1999 Manitou SX-R fork, Homegrown S-Carbon frame, all other components from '98 Moab 2 Al.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. While I've only ridden it once, I attacked my favorite trail that I know very well and it delivered more than I expected. I was able to hammer in the saddle through nearly anything. For an aggressive recreational rider like me, this bike is perfect. Probably not for the racers out there (a little portly), but if you like to ride fast and have fun, this one's a keeper. Well worth the cost of the frame kit at Supergo.
Handling is excellent on this bike. I never detected any flex or anything weird - other than the lack of abuse to me, I could have been on my hardtail. Other than the tendency to stoppie when using the front brake, the URT design works very well for me (5'6", 145 lb). If you find one of these for a discount (I saw them for $1100 new last year), it's well worth the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DAVID REYNOLDS
a Racer
from ANAHEIM HILLS Date Reviewed: May 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ALL OF THEM
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
GOOD CONTROL AT SLOW SPEED, STEADY AT SPEED
Weaknesses:
CRAPPY ROCK SHOX REAR SHOCK
Similar Products Used:
NONE
Bike Setup:
S-10, MANITOU SX CARBON, SRAM, XTR, SUNN-RINGLE
Bottom Line:
GREAT FRAME BUT THE STANDARD COMPONENTS JUST SUCK!!! I BOUGHT JUST THE FRAME AND BUILT OUTAND THAT IS THE WAY TO GO AND I'VE NEVER BEEN HAPPIER. SCHWINN'S MADE A QUALITY PRODUCT IN THIS ONE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
moab man from canad
a Downhiller
from canucks rule Date Reviewed: March 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
the one I rode last
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
paint job (cant go wrong with bass boat) sweet judys sl's, xtr, xt. made by schwinn I use a moab 3 (suped up with full xtr, xt, and rockshox sid 100's) for xc and the s-10 for down hill and dual
Weaknesses:
weakness's from a schwinn, what are you smoking?
Similar Products Used:
fisher, 4 banger, SCHWINNS RULE, fsr (which was horrible
Bike Setup:
full xtr, race face, , time, saddle was ok for trials (since you don't sit down) giro fizerik saddle
Bottom Line:
amazing bike for the $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$, by the way Schwinns rule i give it 14 chilies out of 5
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stevo Herrera
a Cross Country Rider
from Montebello, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Santa Ana River trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Looks great, cleans up well
Weaknesses:
Had to replace front shock springs, and entire rear shock to get the bike to take the ride without bottoming out constantly. Have always had problems with the chain staying on, it eats chain on a regular basis, front and back.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Extra heavy springs in the RockShox Judy XC ($50.00), RockShox Super Deluxe with extra heavy 800# spring in the rear ($279.00), also replaced cheap plastic bottom bracket for a mid range all metal bottom bracket ($65.00), also replaced the internally plastic XT shifters that broke with XTR metal internal shifters ($150.00), also replaced the suckey seat ($50.00)
Bottom Line:
I have felt really wrong in making the decision to buy this bike. I was unfamiliar to the sport, but after so many years of doing serious road riding, I was getting involved in the sport by the advice of friends. After informing the store attendent that I intended to XC race, I was shown and directed to the S-10. I was impressed, as Schwinn had always been my favorite brand of bicycle. Now after almost 2 years, I am looking for my first real full suspension bike. The S-10 is not it! This bike will leave you weak in the knees... not for love... but for all the pounding your knees will take after you take this puppy for a spin. At any age, although I'm 40, you don't want to overstress your knees. It took my awhile to learn that this is a look-like a full suspension bike. I have been duped! I have buyers remorse! Sure it feels O.K. in the seat, but you still get it in the knees. There is no fix or escape with this bike, believe me...I've tried.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JOSH RICE
a Downhiller
from OREGON CITY OREGON USA Date Reviewed: January 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
FOREST PARK
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
STRONG FRAME, STABLE ON LONG FAST DOWNHILL. GREAT CLIMBING POWER WHILE IN THE SADDLE. EXCELLENT COMPONENTS IN THAT PRICE RANGE.
Weaknesses:
SUSPENSION TRAVEL SHALLOW. SWITCHED REAR SHOCK TO ROCK SHOX SID AIRSHOCK
Similar Products Used:
SCHWINN IS THE ONLY WAY TO GO!!!!!!!!
Bike Setup:
ADD AVID HYDRAULICS TO FRONT AND REAR
Bottom Line:
GREAT BIKE FOR THE MONEY AND IT'S EASILY UPGRADEABLE EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO SAVE UP THE MONEY. IT'S THE PERFECT BIKE FOR A BEGINNER OR AN EXPERT. NO PROBLEMS AS OF YET TO REPORT SO I'LL KEEP SLAMMING DOWN THE TRAILS AND ALL THE SLOWPOKES BETTER GET MOVIN'!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross-Country Rider
from Gilroy, CA Date Reviewed: January 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Soquel Demonstration Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Like a Hardtail off the saddle Singletrack riding Stiff laterally Great while in the saddle. Fantastic for Cross Country riding
Weaknesses:
Like a Hardtail off the saddle Not a downhill bike Rear Rockshox Deluxe has limited travel. I changed to a Cane Creek Rocky descents are tough
Similar Products Used:
K2 4000 - I like it, but too heavy and Noleens leak Cannondale Raven - Nice but too expensive
Bike Setup:
Titec Ti Bars XTR all around White wheels Ritchey pedals Avocet CC Saddle - The Best Rockshox Judy 100
Bottom Line:
This is a great Cross Country Bike. Not too good on narly downhills. The Judy 100 matches the CraneCreek I install on the rear. Only problem is the Judy 100 is 4 lbs. Total weight is just under 26 lbs. This bike handles steep climbs and singletrack like it's on rails. Handles like a hardtail off the saddle,but you can compensate by keeping in contact with the saddle. This is OK as long as it doesn't get REAL STEEP or too rocky. I'm going to try to race with it and see how it does. The weight is a factor at just under 26 lbs, but this is made up by the cushiness of being in the saddle which really helps on climbs. I had a Litespeed with a suspension seatpost. What a world of difference it is with a real shock in the back. There simply is no comparison to a suspension seatpost as others have mentioned. You can ride faster and in much more control. You do get a bit of suspension off the saddle, but not as much as other F/S designs. But what you do get is a fine handling Cross Country bike. My rides are smoother, more enjoyable, faster and more in control at higher speeds. For the type of riding I do, it's perfect! I can probably go with a lighter fork and drop another pound to under 25 lbs, but that will have to wait. I got this frame for a steal at $429 at Supergo. Based on price & weight of the frame (6 lbs less the Rockshox Deluxe) it's the BEST VALUE out there. Nothing else can come close.5 Pippin Peppers -- I'd give it 7 for the price
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
vicken hevoyan
a Downhiller
from l.a. c.a. Date Reviewed: November 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
?
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
real good
Weaknesses:
none that i know have
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
cool bike but seat replaced
Bottom Line:
you should get this bike the style is so cool
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross-Country Rider
from Cleveland Date Reviewed: November 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
DUMP
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
All around performance
Bike Setup:
XTR all the way around. Spox wheels, panaracer tires, lola seat, marzouchi z1 xfly, race face cranks, cane creek rear shock ad-10
Bottom Line:
I love it. I have slowly replaced most of the components on the bike, but man, I have never ridden a bike that lockouts like that once you get out of the saddle. Great for climbing, great performance. Definately get a cane creek shock and the wheels !!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross-Country Rider
from Houston, Tx. Date Reviewed: November 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Memorial Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
As someone who is new to mountian biking, I would say this bike offers the highest quality of components for any bike in this price range($1000).The bike is rock-solid and has not been a problem on any level since purchase.
Weaknesses:
I have two things that might be considered weaknesses 1. The rear suspension: It's not as good as some, but even hardtails in this price range don't have this good of a component mix. 2. The weight, it seems a tad heavy, but I don't notice it - plus see # 1 above.
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback
Bike Setup:
Stock with adjustments, plus a Specalized computer
Bottom Line:
Well, I guess the bottom line is -- I like it. I know $1000 is a lot to spend on a bike, but when I look at other bikes, I don't see the same level of shifters, deraileurs, cranks, hubs, brakes, etc. I would recomend it based on what I know now.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BobS
a Cross-Country Rider
from Dana Point, CA Date Reviewed: October 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Top of the World
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
GREAT components...far better than the front susp bikes I usually rode before this one. My shop changed out the rear susp spring to a heavier one (BikesUSA in SanDiego) for free...it really helped a 195# guy like me not to bottom out.
Weaknesses:
Everyone ranks on the Barbie Bike seat. It looks cool, but I have to agree...could be more comfy.
Similar Products Used:
GaryFisher,Klein
Bike Setup:
Nearly off the rack... comes with a great set up! I DID put another seat, Shimano pedals & other bar ends on it...GREAT improvement over the Look pedals that came with it! The bar ends were not anatomic for me. The Barbie seat is as hard as a rock.
Bottom Line:
I use this bike for both XC & downhill.....this bike felt like an intuitive part of me from the 1st second I rode it in the shop. I thought: Oh no....no Schwinn for me....but once I rode it, I was sold. I've been riding it for over 6 mos & the honeymoon's not over yet. This bike seems to read my mind & puts me where I want to be consistently.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DPW
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbus, Ohio Date Reviewed: September 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
SNOWSHOE
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great price for the quality of parts.
Weaknesses:
Like everone says the seat is not good.
Similar Products Used:
NONE
Bike Setup:
Off the Shelf
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE IS AWESOME....CUZ STONE COLD SAID SO..
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bikeguy
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Date Reviewed: August 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
gnarly ones
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
cheap price, strong frame, gets some hardtail holdouts into a real bike
Weaknesses:
suspension not active while weight is on the pedals -- but guess where your weight is when you're going through the gnarlies?? that is why it effectively feels like it has only minimal rear suspension. not suited for tough going. chain stay is way too close to the chain rings giving continuing chain is not good after going through mud and slop especially since I put 2.35 tires on. -- turns out this not really a full suspension bike unless your ass is glued to the seat, then you're a roadie and don't need full suspension.
Bottom Line:
strong cheap frame, minimal suspension in the rough stuff when you're standing on the pedals clutching the seat with your crotch which is when you really need it, too much chain is not good if you ride in wet stuff and have oversized tires.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Prizo
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta Date Reviewed: August 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
South Toby Benches
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Price, Components
Weaknesses:
Haven't found one
Similar Products Used:
Only full susp. I've tried
Bike Setup:
Stock except new seat (anyone see a pattern here)
Bottom Line:
Nice. Like others I went to the bike shop looking to buy a front susp. Rocky Mountain Oxygen, saw the price on this baby, looked at the components and rear susp. and bought it. I didn't try any other full susp, and haven't since, but I think the bike is great! No complaints, no regrets - a VERY nice all round bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas Mason
a Cross-Country Rider
from Anchorage, AK Date Reviewed: August 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Resurrection Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Price, Climbs almost like a hard tail. Time ATAC's a great pedal.
Weaknesses:
Heavy, Stock, Seat Extremely uncomfortable
Similar Products Used:
Moab 1, DBR X-2
Bike Setup:
Right off the shelf, but replaced the seat.
Bottom Line:
For the price you pay, a great introductory cross country bike, great components. I've had mine 6 months and have enjoyed it greatly. The rear shock is pretty good in general although borderline if your over 180lbs, but great staying out of the way in the climb. I have seen them advertised recently for $1000, which is a steal for the LX,XT,XTR components you get
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arthur
a Cross-Country Rider
from Chino Hills, CA Date Reviewed: August 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Chino Hills State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
looks, price
Weaknesses:
seatpost adjustability,
Similar Products Used:
klein mantra
Bike Setup:
original parts, except the seat which I replaced before buying it.
Bottom Line:
Great buy for the money I paid for it ($999 at Two Wheels One Planet). I have ridden it for about a month now and these are my findings: 1. The carbon frame will give you a noticeable squeak or noise if something is loose on your system. ( seat clamp , rear suspension bolts etc.) 2. You have a very limited adjustability on the length on the seatpost due to its design. If you are buying one, make sure you cut it at exactly what you like or you are looking for a new post if you cut it too short. 3. This is a much better bike than a rigid bike with a suspension seatpost. The guy who was complaining about it either doesn't have a susp seatpost or just don't like a URT design FS bike. 4. This bike is designed for cross country biker and not for racer in mind. At 29 lbs, this bike is too heavy to race. 5. It doesn't feel like it has a 3 3/4 rear travel. Schwinn told me it does, but I don't think so or it is just my feeling. I guess riding a Klein Mantra before has a lot to do with it.In my opinion, this is the best XC bike for the money. With Rockshox SL front and Super Deluxe rear with LX, XT, XTR components, even finding a front suspension at this price with this components will be hard. The frame alone cost $499 at Supergo. Check this one out if you are looking for a XC bike. Four chiles only due to limited seat adjustability
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: July 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
MacDonald Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Fit me perfect. Price
Weaknesses:
Seat
Similar Products Used:
GT, Kona, Rocky Mt.
Bike Setup:
Stock, but the seat is getting replaced
Bottom Line:
I was looking for hardtails when I came across this bike on a major sale. I was going to get a GT Avalanche, but after test riding this I couldn't justify the GT. The componets are better than the GT and the comfort of the riding position, for me, was just right. If the bike hadn't been on sale I wouldn't have purchased it, but after the first 50 miles I couldn't be happier. Hang the seat on the wall, it looks better than it feels.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt b
a Cross-Country Rider
from mankato Date Reviewed: July 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
9mile wausau WI
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
awesome looks(bassboat red metallic over carbon fiber), pretty light, disc mounts front and rear
Weaknesses:
hard to find aftermarket seatpost clamp
Similar Products Used:
s-20, klein mantra race, gary fisher big sur, proflex beast,specialized fsr
Bike Setup:
XTR, kore post, Judy SL, deluxe rear w/ heavyspring, bonty mustangs w/ritchey speedmax tires
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike, it's 27lbs and that's not bad for an XL frame. The dude who made the point that the rear susp. is just a glorified suspension post is in my opinion pretty far off the mark. Sure this bike does not have six inches of rear travel like the mantra, however there is quite an overlap of usable susp. from sitting to standing. Keep in mind this is not a downhill or racing bike, it's the bike that you would want to ride on medium to long treks through the woods (possibly a good commuter). It smoothes out the rough stuff whether it be tree roots or cracks in the sidewalks. Another point that I would like make is that this bike is ROCK SOLID. I must say that I would recomend XTR/gore/avid cables because the routing is pretty tricky. I've been seeing a lot of good deals on these lately GO OUT AND GET ONE THEY ARE WELL WORTH IT!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Cross-Country Rider
from manchester nh Date Reviewed: April 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
looks great
Weaknesses:
what rear suspension?
Similar Products Used:
you name it
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this bike is for people who are being dragged kicking and screaming to a full suspension bike. it accelerates almost as well as a hard-tail but due to the pivot placement,the rear shock is only active if you are sitting on the saddle. it's just a really heavy and expensive suspension seat post.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Monty Warsing
a cross-country rider
from Falls Church, Va. Date Reviewed: February 3, 1999
Bottom Line:
Just received a new S10 and have to give it five chilis for overall quality and component mix. The bike weighs in at around 28 1/2 lbs and looks great. The Rock Shox rear suspension is set up for a 140-180 rider. I tip the scales at 185 and found that I bottomed out quite easily which limited my riding/evaluation time. A suggestion to ALL manufacturers using coil over rear shocks: PUT HEAVIER SPRINGS IN THE LARGER FRAMES! What are the chances that more than maybe 30% of the people buying 17,19 and 21 frames are going to weigh less than 180lbs? It is not good that we have to shell out an extra $50 as soon as we get the bike for the right spring. Maybe bike shops that sell brands using coil over shocks should stock a variety of springs so our bikes can be ridden from day one. I have been waiting a week now for my proper spring and missed out on some quality ride time. Lastly, the S series full suspensions are coming with a cool looking Schwinn Stinger saddes. They look great but hurt like hell! I've ridden lots of miles on WTB, Flites, Avocet and Bontragers, this one is truly painful. I wasn't 5 miles into my christening ride and happend by a local shop. I immediately popped the uncomfortable brick into my pack and put on a new Avocet O2, much better! The Moab series comes with a really nice SDG Bel Air that they should use instead. Four stars for now, based mostly on component mix and looks. Waiting for new spring to get riding impression, which looks promising.
Overall Rating:
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