Submitted by
Schwinnski
a Weekend Warrior
from Norman, Oklahoma Soonernation Date Reviewed: January 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Still Looking
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Factory
Strengths:
A frame that represented a once proud name. Great paint job and great geometry. Was able to build it "my way"
Weaknesses:
Lifetime warranty evaporated in bankrupcy court.
Similar Products Used:
97 Cro-Mo Moab1
Bike Setup:
Kore stem, red Titec HellBent bars, Sram 9.0 shifters, brakes, and f/d. Sram 9.0 sl levers and r/d. Pc-68 chain, 9.0 sl white hubs on Ryno-Lite XL rims. 5.0 cassette (Hey, I prefer 8 speed), Panaracer Fire XC pros w/ red stripe. Red race face cramks, R/F rings Thud Buster post, egg beater prdals and a WTB saddle. Oh yeah some flak jackets to keep those cables sealed.
Bottom Line:
This frame was a warranty for a cracked head tube on my '97. I just had to pay for the ICBM factory installed headset. My components not only perform great, they also look great on this ride. While F/S frame designs come and go, there is something to be said for the classic beauty of a diamond frame, especially with wire spoked rims. It's to bad that this will be the last Schwinn I own as I want to remember this company with the memories that this bike has given me and continues to give. If you want to know about this ride- "Just ask the man who owns one"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a
from beach park, il, usa Date Reviewed: December 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
kettle moraine
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
Great price, awesome frame and a very good fork. Lots of potential as a race or trail bike. I beat the living crap out of this bike and it just comes back for more.
Weaknesses:
non!
Similar Products Used:
all hard tails out their.
Bike Setup:
I kept the fork and frame and modified everything els.
Bottom Line:
Just stock this is a great hard tail, it has great handling and is fairly light, because of this bikes geometry it corners like nothing else and it's a blast to take down hill as well. It's a amazing bike, I ride this bike more than all of my fancy a$$ bikes, I originaly bought this bike as just a good trail bike but I soon realized the potential this bike had. I have modified almost everything on this bike. I have just plain fallen in love with this damn bike! All of my friends have fancy race bikes that they are still making payments on. To me it's not what you pay but what you get for the money plus I love kicking their a$$es with this bike that I payed for in just a day.
Bottom line if you love to ride hard and not make payments this is the bike for you, just get one of these bikes you won't be sorry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kenny
a Cross Country Rider
from Springfield, VA, USA Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Schaeffer Farms
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Frame, XTR rear d., Titec Bar
Weaknesses:
Koski brakes and levers, wheels, seatpost
Similar Products Used:
fisher paragon, homegrown, any other hardtail out there
Bike Setup:
only stock parts left are frame, handlebar.....XT shifter, front d., cranks, cassette, XTR rear d.,sram pc-99 chain, XTR V-brakes, Avid speed dial 7 levers, Red Chris King hubs on Sun Rhyno Lites, salsa skewers, TIME pedals, Thomson stem and seatpost, red selle flite gel, michelin hot s tires, marzocchi z.2 atom race (80mm)
Bottom Line:
this bike was one of the best deals going. with the money saved it was upgraded to elite race quality over the last year. the frame is amazing both aesthetically and funtionally. climbs, coners, descends, it does it all with minimal flex and amazing response. the bomber really makes this bike bombproof. topping in at about 25 pounds is awesome. ohh, buy king wheels, just do it, then you'll understand the hype.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: July 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$940.00
Strengths:
Good price for a nice package!! Good parts and strong frame!
Weaknesses:
The brakes and levers are crap
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper
Bike Setup:
00' Moab 1 stock except for Mavic X517 up front with magura julie disc brake.
Bottom Line:
This bike was totally worth the money, I now work at a bike shop and nothing I sell comes close. You can't find an XTR derailuer and LX hollowtech crank on anything else for under $1000. Sweet shock and tough frame, I am 190lbs and beat ever living crap out of this thing and it just smiles and asks for more (except for the front wheel but I think it had to do with my landing or lack thereof). Plus it is light at 26 lbs!!
Go get one.....ummm on second thought don't I like to be original.
Four smokin jalapenos cause the brakes suck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jose Real
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: June 21, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
grand west
Strengths:
Lighter than others frame, XTR rear derrailur smooth and accurate. Very tought bike that can handle the not so light riders (190 +). Fast climber and responds well on fast single track. The bike also can take serious beatings with minor damages. The rock shock race fork is also a big plus.
Weaknesses:
Very, Very crappy wheels, mavic 221 with parallax or something like that. At 195 pounds and some rough terrain the wheels could not hang, they had to be trued every other ride (1-2 x p/wk), what a pain!!!. Upgraded to rolf sattelite wheels which are not only lighter but sitffer and have taken the punishment so far. The rest of the bike components are not too bad but could use some upgrading. The new XT brakes are so much better than the stock koski stuff. Oh, and the saddle OUCH!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose, specialized (old and heavy) hardtails.
Bike Setup:
Race RS fork, XTR R. derrailur, LX the rest except for the XT brakes, rolf sattelite wheels, bontrager wheels
Bottom Line:
At $900 this is a great bike, althoug entry level is a very durable and not so heavy bike. It is very competitive on the trails against bikes twice or more its price. If you're getting into the sport you cannot go wrong with the MOAB 1, specially since is very upgrade worthy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan M
a Weekend Warrior
from Fairfax, VA, USA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Accotink
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Galyan's
Strengths:
XTR rear derauiller shifts clean, no problems with any other components, solid ride
Weaknesses:
Bar was a bit too wide for my tastes, i trimmed the grips and added some short bar ends so it's not so bad now
Similar Products Used:
Haro EX full suspension
Bottom Line:
Definitely recommended. At the time of purchase i knew every one of the competitor products back to front and the quality, parts, and price of this bike make it a winner. for the $, no better bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kempo
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: May 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Yellow River Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
MTBR Marketplace
Strengths:
Good sturdy light frame. Good geometry
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
GT Pantera
Bike Setup:
XTR/Rhino lite wheels, SRAM 7.0 shifters and r. derailer. LX cranks and f. derailer
Bottom Line:
So far great bike. Good on the climbs, if only I could get in better shape up it would climb even better. The geometry is a nice change from the older GT geometry, I feel more in control of the bike. For the price I paid for the frame I can't complain. I would buy Schwinn again go products, light frames, and decent geometry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grand Puhbaa
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, AB, CANADA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
bow river path
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Soma Cycle
Strengths:
Light frame, XTR rear deraiuller, Judy fork, White and Red colours - just like the Canadian flag.
Weaknesses:
Ritchey pedals, Koski brakes
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Big Sur, Trek 6700, Trek 8500, Norco Charger, KHS Alite 2000 , Brodie Evolution
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Specialized Body Comfort Saddle (hey .. my ass appreciates the cushy ride)
Bottom Line:
This bike is an awesome XC or commuter bike. Cushy ride, light bike, responsive handling, agressive climber - great qualities in a bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Nugent
a
from The land downunder Date Reviewed: May 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Melbourne Bicycle Center
Strengths:
Looks, Frame, Geometry
Similar Products Used:
Giant Sedona
Bike Setup:
XT Cranks and Cassette XTR brakes, derailleurs, chain and controls Ritchey WCS forged stem, ritchey bars and stubby ends Kore Forged seat post with Terry Liberator Saddle Deore LX hubs with DT spokes and Mavic 521 Rims
Bottom Line:
After looking around for quite a while and testing many bikes in the $1000.00 US range I fell in love with the MOAB.
By the time I had the money for it the shop only had a bare frame left and I didnt liek the all black 2001 model so I am building it as a project bike.
The only item I have not yet decided on is the front forks I am currently using my last years Judy XC but looking at Marzocchi air.
Apart from teh frame I have sourced everything via the net which shows how much money you can save when building a sweet ride if your prepared to take the time and hunt for the best deals.
I will write a follow up review when she is finished.
If anyone has suggestions as to the best front shocks let me know via email I am 6'3" 280 lbs and it will be used mainly for cross country and possibly some downhill
At the moment five chillis for the looks and the price of $225 for the frame only.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Ninaud
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: January 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
BLORA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Update to review below posted 1/12/01 Excellent handling, comfortable frame, worthy of upgrades Great shifting (XTR rear makes huge difference over XT) Judy race fork: yes, others are lighter, but this fork is set and forget. Tip: overhaul the fork adding new oil and Judy butter on tubes. Made the fork much more supple and responsive, the preload and rebound adjustments were more effective also. Otherwise just set, forget, and enjoy.
Weaknesses:
Upgrades dropped weight by 2.5 pounds from 26.5 to 24 with Time pedals.
Similar Products Used:
Own Sugar 3.
Bike Setup:
XT brakes, $120 w/ non-XT levers (yes they squeek some, but new pads fix it, VERY powerfull.) Mavic wheels - 601 hubs on 221 rims ($270 for pair) WTB Nano-raptor 2.1 Kevlar tires: Very comfortable, high TPI casings, fast rolling. Not good for mud, but excellent in Texas hard pack and damp conditions. Titec Hellbent 220g riser ($60) Thompson seat post ($80) Stelle Flite FKS (Full Kevlar Seat, $60) Excellent: tough, comfy, light, has built in flex bumpers...great value over other $100 seats.
Bottom Line:
Schwinn did a great job on the frame. Upgrades resulted in 24 pound total weight with Time pedals. First upgrades: Mavic wheels and XT brakes. Second upgrades: seatpost, seat and bar. Spent $500 on the bike, there's no free lunch, but the frame is excellent and worth it. I dont mail order because I want to support local retailers that give good customer service. Besides, upgrading is half the fun! The bike is faster, better handling, and more comfortable now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed Zammit
a Weekend Warrior
from Foster City, Ca Date Reviewed: January 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lake Chabot hills trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Strengths:
Excellent value. Solid frame. Good drive train. Excellent fork
Weaknesses:
Brakes and seat post
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Trek, Diamondback, Specialized, Mongoose.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great performer. It is quick up and down hills, tracks well, and is very nimble. I weigh 230 pounds, and am amazed that I haven't broken anything outside of a bent rim. The bike really gets a severe pounding every time I use it. The Judy fork is outstanding. I have yet to bottom it out. Considering I only paid $800 for it, this has to be one of the best values going. I spent weeks trying and re-trying different bikes. Schwinn has a winner in the $800 to $1,000 price range.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mountain Man
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: January 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bird Sanctuary
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Lakeshore Cycle and Sports
Strengths:
Great Looks, Light, Excellent Value, Geometry
Weaknesses:
Seatpost, hubs, brake pads
Similar Products Used:
Old steel GT hardtail (nicknamed "The Beast")
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for Profile Logo grips, Syncros ti skewers, wellgo pedals, koolstop pads
Bottom Line:
This is an update from my previous review. My near-future upgrades for this bike include: — Thomson seatpost — New wheels (Mavic?) — Precision Billet Super Vice brake and lever kit — Continental Explorer Pro front tire — Carbon cable housing with teflon coated cables
This bike has never let me down. There was a bit of corner-cutting in the seatpost and wheel department: but for the price, what do you expect? They didn't skimp on the frame, fork, drivetrain, or cockpit, and that's what's most important. The styling is great, too. The SDG seat has worn in nicely, and is super comfortable. The Koski brakes work great if you replace the pads with KoolStop Thinlines (best pads I've ever used.) The hubs are not good. I found out the rear is a Shimano Alivio: way below spec for a race bike. The front is made by Schwinn, and has poor seals. I wish I had an extra $200 when I bought this bike... I bought it for $1299 Canadian and the Homegrown was $1499. Upgrades to the Homegrown include a U.S. made frame, SX-R fork, Deore hubs and brakes (I like the Koski brakes better, though), Time A.T.A.C. pedals, a Giro saddle (less comfy and lighter), Titec seatpost, Homegrown grips, Avid brake levers, and Michelin tires (not always better). Overall, this is the best bike you can buy for the money (unless a beautiful Homegrown happens to be on sale). BUY IT!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kently
a Cross Country Rider
from Springville Date Reviewed: January 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
blackhawk
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1080.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Good looks, nice fork, light
Weaknesses:
Gay wheels, koski brakes, not set up for a 200 lbs rider not avalable polished
Similar Products Used:
91' schwinn high seirra w/mag 21 shock 96' schwinn comparable model 99' gt
Bike Setup:
mavic cross link disc w/ formula hydrolic
Bottom Line:
First week I had it I broke a spoke and bent the back rim. That was on the road!I've trued the rims five or six times, they just can't take a beating. With only a month of riding some dh I melted the brake shoes to nothing.
My friends ride full suspension diamondbacks and I can keep up with them on most of the dh sections. I ride hard, jumps, drops, logs you name it. No problems since the wheel/brake upgrade. Next upgrade raceface next lp sisi.
Ideal buyer- Someone starting out that wants quality not crap. Plenty of room for future up grades.
MOAB 1 UPDATE: Excellent frame, handling, shifting, best on tight single track.
Weaknesses:
Stock brakes and wheels. Stock rear free hub packed up and had to be fixed on warrenty. REI was excellent on service.
Similar Products Used:
Own Sugar 3
Bike Setup:
UPGRADES Mavic hubs and rims, 26 spoke, three cross pattern. XT Brakes and levers.
Bottom Line:
Great handling: The Sugar is great for more comfort and stablility, and traction while the MOAB rocks on tight switchback infested single track with its quicker steering. Stock seating position is perfect mix of leaned over/upright for my 5'8", 30in inseam frame. I changed out wheels to the Mavic's laced with three cross patterm the front, which tracks more solid and true compared to radial lacing. The cartridge bearings feel very smooth, you can feel reduced rolling resistance over stock wheels. Also added Shimano XT brakes: awesome power that has to be used with respect. Before I was complaining about XTR rear shifter when I thought they should have upgraded the rest of the drive train. But this bike shifts like butter, better than the Sugar with all XT....smooth, precise, on-demand shifting is excellent. OVERALL: EXCELLENT BIKE WORTHY OF UPGRADES. Dropped over one pound to around 25 lb.s with pedals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Spingola
a Weekend Warrior
from Rindge, NH Date Reviewed: January 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Technical and downhills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Andy's Cycles
Strengths:
Good component spec. Light and fast.
Weaknesses:
Could have used a little better selection on the seat post, seat, brakes. The Koski's worked real well for about five rides then completly crapped out. I will replace them this year with an LX or XT vee brake setup. The seat post bent after about one month of hard riding (I weight around 200 pounds so this is a major issue with me). Other than that the bike has been a blast to ride and for only a grand it was well worth the money. Also the panaracer fire xc tires have been clogging up as of late, i might switch to a new set as spring arrives.
Stock. Will be replacing brakes, seat & post and tires before next season.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for a grand. With a few minor additions and tweaks this bike could be a serious racer. I am a recreational rider who dosent like to climb all that much but the bikes is great at climbing, downhilling and techincal trails. An awesome bike for the average rider!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
toodles
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Date Reviewed: December 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Trails
Strengths:
Amazing bike with mostly good components.3.5 pound frame.What else need I say?
Weaknesses:
The seat hurts your nuts(if u got) so I upgraded the seat. Breaks upgraded to Shimano XTR and the front derailleur upgraded to Shimano XTR. All this and the bike weighs 23.8 pounds!
Buy this bike.The value is the best out there.A few upgrades and you have yourself a great freeride bike.Whatever it is you do.Trails,race,marathon.This is the bike for you.You're still here?GO BUY THIS BIKE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mountain Man
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: November 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bird Sanctuary
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Lakeshore Cycle and Sports
Strengths:
Light, Probably the Best Looking Bike on the Planet, Great Components, Excellent Price
Weaknesses:
Hubs and Seatpost need Upgrading.
Similar Products Used:
Heavy @$$ GT Hardtail
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Profile Logo Grips, Wellgo Pedals, Syncros Ti Skewers, and a Red LizardSkin.
Bottom Line:
This bike rules. The geometry is similar to the classic 71/73 racing geometry, only tricked up by Schwinn for quicker handling and more comfort. This frame is at least as smooth as my old steel GT. It's nice and stable for the downhills, hooks up nicely on the uphills, and handles like a dream in technical sections. The hubs are terrible. The rear is heavy, and the front lets mud in easily. They are soon to be replaced, though, probably with XT hubs. The front wheel comes out of true almost every ride, due to the fact that it's machine built. The seatpost is too short for me, but otherwise is fine. The Koski levers are great (read my review of them), and the brakes are ok for now. Just throw on some KoolStop Thinline pads to double their performance. The XTR rear derailleur is smooth and reliable. The same goes for the Judy Race fork, although it needs to be worked in before it performs well. The tires have never failed me, have never lost traction or clogged with mud. The cockpit components are all great, and make the bike fit me like a glove. The SDG seat takes about a week of constant riding to work in, though. An interesting feature is the integrated headset. It is very smooth, easy to adjust, lowers the stack height, and leaves room for big fat welds and a couple of nice gussets. An absolutely beautiful frame. Styling is second to none and attention to detail is second only to the Homegrown models. The gussets add stiffness, the rear triangle serves up a comfortable ride, while the butted tubes make it light and worthy of all the upgrades I'm gonna hang onto it. A great bike at an unbelievable price... Do yourself a favour and buy yourself one!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Travis
a Cross Country Rider
from La Crosse, WI Date Reviewed: November 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere in the bluffs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Chain O' Lakes Cyclery in Eagle River
Strengths:
Sweet frame, Judy Race is super nice, Homegrown geometry, light for price. Koski breaks aren't bad either. XTR rear is smooth and fast even though I broke it the first day. Not the fault of Shimano, got a stick through the spokes on a steep climb. Thank god for replaceable derailure hangers.
Weaknesses:
too pretty, (wanted to avoid mud at first but that didn't last long) heavy wheel set, Panaracers don't shed sticky mud well
Similar Products Used:
98 Schwinn Mesa (My first real mb), Fischer Paragon, Fischer Sugar 3Specailized Stumpy
Bike Setup:
Everything stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is one sweet deal. For around $900 you get a race ready machine. This frame is awesome. It is the same as the 98 homegrown frame, how cool is that It is probably the smoothest riding aluminum frame you can get no need for a heavy full suspension bike. The Paragon felt down right harsh in comparison. It may be a pound heavier than the paragon but is worth the weight. With little efort you could get this thing under 24#. I plan on switching out the wheels, seat post and bars this winter. As for the ride, it loves the down hill, smooth and fast. It is no slouch on the up hills either maybe that is the 6 pound weight loss from my old mesa. Any way this bike loves the single track and I love this bike. This time of year you can a great deal on it so check it out or else... If you ride mor than once a week off road I think you owe it to your self to buy a good bike. Schwinn makes a great product for a good price plus an awesome warranty. Another reviewer broke his 92 frame and got a 2000 for nothing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seth
a
from York, PA Date Reviewed: October 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$925.00
Purchased At:
Gung Ho
Strengths:
Quality of parts mix for price range. Frame geometry. Rear disc mount for future upgrade. Judy Race is (excuse the lame cliche) as smooth as butter.
Weaknesses:
Factory machine-built wheelset is substandrd. Ritchey pedals
Stock, so far. I plan on Frogs and a Selle Italia in the not-so-distant future.
Bottom Line:
Where to start? I've only been riding for 1 year and it was on a Giant Boulder. Obviously, this was a big upgrade for me. It took some getting use to (the light weight and speed) but I suppose the most significant compliment I can give is that this bike has made me a better rider 10x over. It climbs like a champ. Handles beautifully. And descends like a bullet. Very upgradable. First big thing will be a new wheelset. For the money, I am extremely pleased.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seth Leidy
a Weekend Warrior
from Carmichael , California, USA Date Reviewed: October 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mr. Toads Adventure
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$675.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Really good frame. Light and awesome components. Loaded with XL and XTR!
Weaknesses:
None that I can think of
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper A1 Pro FS,Specialized Stumpjumper, GT Avalache 2.0, and Trek 4900
Bike Setup:
To lazy to type in list of components hehe
Bottom Line:
This bike is really good. Light and good components. The fork is light and is very strong. This bike is worth its price. Even though the Retail price is 1100 dollars I got it on clearance at REI for 675 dollars. This bike is gonna last me a long time
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris N
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin Date Reviewed: October 5, 2000
lesser quality brakes, wheel set, and Titec bar/stem...they tried the trick of putting on an XTR rear derailure, when I rather they just give a better group set like XT all around.
Similar Products Used:
I have a Fisher Sugar also, got this bike as a street commuter and spare trail bike.
Bike Setup:
stock cept kevlar bead WTB low tread design tires for less weight.
Bottom Line:
Excellent frame and handling, with some built in flex in the back to smooth out the ride. The handling is quicker steering than the Fisher Sugar, and the Moab is great fun all around, really flys on tight single track... Coming in at 26.5 lb.s with pedals is not bad, and the frame is worth upgrading to better wheels. The Judy Race is lighter than the reg Judy, and is very supple, with the coil/oil design you can set and forget. The excellent butted frame is worth upgrading to better wheels, brake and fork later, you could drop 1.5 lb I bet. Excellent value, I would have liked another Fisher hardtail, but they were not such a good value. Moab 1 or Homegrown, I think Schwinn really did their homework on the frame. As a street commuter and back up trail bike, its just great without upgrading. Four chilies cause they could have ditched the XTR rear derailure and up graded other components instead. Five chilies for handling, frame finish and ride quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John T.
a Weekend Warrior
from Shelton Date Reviewed: October 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ALL OF THEM
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Tony's Bike Shop, Milford Ct.
Strengths:
This bike can take a good beating. The price was great for a new bike. It has a good mix of components.
Weaknesses:
I bent the rear rim on the third ride. May need minor upgrades, for super serious riders. I had a few mishaps of flying over the handlebars, it just took a few adjustments.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F 800 BEAST OF THE EAST
Bike Setup:
Onza bar ends, race face cranks, rock shok suspension seat post, Spinergy Spox m1, shimano 646 pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great hardtail for the money. It is a comfortable ride and can really take a beating. I am considering a new full suspension but cannot part with the Moab 1. This bike climbs like a champ, and my down hills are fast.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kenny
a Cross Country Rider
from Springfield, VA, USA Date Reviewed: September 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fountain Head
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Frame, Geometry, Component package, tires, fork
Weaknesses:
brakes, seatpost
Similar Products Used:
fisher paragon, shwinn homegrown, trek 8000
Bike Setup:
stock with xtr V-brakes, thomson seatpost, selle italia gel saddle
Bottom Line:
This is the single coolest bike on the planet! The frame is perfect for climbing, descending, cornering, whatever. The cockpit is stellar and the Titec parts are great quality. Only needed to upgrade the brakes and seatpost. I added the selle italia saddle for more comfort. The bike gets great reactions from friends who cant believe how little i paid for such a machine. I cant get enough of the handling it provides on long XC rides. Also, it only a few upgrades (shifters, crank, front deraileur) from being a pro quality race bike which i plan on doing soon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Downhiller
from Missoula, MT, USA Date Reviewed: September 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Sacrifice
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Copelands
Strengths:
XTR rear d., tires (on hpack & mud), geometry, and handling. Great all around setup and you can't beat the price.
Weaknesses:
The Koski breaks got to go. They're okay but for any serious rider they won't be enough. The seat has a nice, low profile but is pretty poor other than that.
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche, Gary Fischer Big Sur, Specialized Stumpjumpers. Also own a Kona Stinky and a Rocky Mountain Pipeline.
You won't find a better bike at this range. The front end (riser bars, stem) take a bit getting used to, but once you do there's no going back! The level of control this bike gives you on the climb and descent are incredible. The front end lets you breeze through high speed, technical descents. I've even done quite a bit of jumping with this bike, although I would recommend changing the hubs and rims to do that.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cook
a Cross Country Rider
from London Date Reviewed: August 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
moderate to bone-breaking
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Overall look is great.....maybe a bit flashy with all the red, but a few trips through the mud will dull those panaracers. Love the shock, love the frame, drivetrain is great....though maybe ditch the LX front shifter.
Weaknesses:
Crappy, ball-numbing Bell-Air seat (though it looks great)...Crappy funky Titec Risers....switched to Flats ASAP...just that kind of a guy.
Similar Products Used:
'99 Moab 3 until it got stolen
Bike Setup:
new XTR front shifter, LX brakes, Time pedals....Mavic 520 DH rim
Bottom Line:
For the price love the bike......but upgrade the handlebars, brakes and pedals for sure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, ON Date Reviewed: July 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hardwood Hills - Radical
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Really good solid built frame worthy of upgrades. The fork is great too, and so are the rims. The XTR derailleur is a welcome bonus. Really nice panaracer tires. Handles well in wet stuff!!
Weaknesses:
Breaks are kinda no name. Who's know what "Koski"? After my first real ride, i took a medium spill and the brake lever bent. I just bent it back again, but lever aren't supposed to be that weak.
Submitted by
Racc
a Cross Country Rider
from Eugene, OR Date Reviewed: July 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
In MT: Foobar & Meet the Reaper
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame, XTR rear der., seatpost, stem, riser bars, and the front shock. The hollowtech LX cranks seem to work well too. Great climber AND descender. I do some steep stuff and this thing is very nimble.
Weaknesses:
Seat...kind of, I like the low profile but its not very comfy. The Koski breaks work better than linear pull canti's but not as well as some decent Avid or Shimano v-brakes. The levers are pretty cool though.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Big Sur; GT Backwoods, Avalanche, and Zaskar; Specialized Stumpjumper Pro; Raleigh M800; various others.
Bike Setup:
Stock except now I have some mid-range Avid v-brakes and a Selle Italia gel seat.
Bottom Line:
This is an incredible deal! I actually replaced a Zaskar with this Moab 1. The Zaskar was good but I like the geometry of this bike more. I tried out alot of bikes before buying and this was by far the best. The only other bike that came close was the Stumpjumper, but that didn't have as good of components. The only real compromise on the Moab was the brakes. I have ridden this bike for less than a month but I have put 500+ miles on it. I'm 200lbs and I still have no problems with the bike. The stem/handlebar setup gives you great control both uphill and down.
Forget buying one of the "popular" brands (ie GT, Gary Fisher, Trek, etc.), they all had MAJOR weak spots around the $1000 pricepoint and didn't handle nearly as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hairykuhn
a Cross Country Rider
from chicago Date Reviewed: July 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
kettle moraine
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
nice component package, awesome acceleration, pretty light, beautiful craftsmanship, nice paint job-looks like a f1 racecar, xtr rear derailleur
Weaknesses:
it seems that schwinn tries to make up the money, xtr derailleur, by putting on cheap hubs and weak brakes. also, the riser bar is too wide. one more thing, I'M SICK OF JUSTIFYING TOO PEOPLE WHY I BOUGHT A "SCHWINN".
Similar Products Used:
schwinn homegrown; trek 8000,8000lt,vrx; a couple of specialized fsrs; gary fisher joshua f3
Bike Setup:
xtr rear and lx front derailleur, koski brakes, judy race, panaracer tires on mavic 220s and i'm not sure what the hubs are.
Bottom Line:
the moab 1 is a great great bike. i would recommend it to anyone because it's a well rounded bike that does it all,(just becareful when you're going downhill fast, the tail starts to wig out and the brakes are suspect.)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from Fairfax, VA Date Reviewed: June 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
difficult run
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lightweight, durable, well made, good components
Weaknesses:
brakes
Similar Products Used:
Trek
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
For 1000 bucks this bike is as good as it gets. Schwinn now has the financial backing to make a good bike, and won't disappear on us. The XTR rear der is a nice upgrade, and the Deore LX crank and front der does the job nicely, although it rubs on the big ring. This bike is super light and makes climbing steep hills on 100 degree days much much more enjoyable. My only complaint is with the Koski brakes. they get loose in a hurry and on steep desents you are almost pulling the lever to the handlebars. The tires and wheels on this thing kick ass too. I have yet to replace a tube this season (knock on wood). I give it 5 chilis overall because its a great bike but beware of the brakes and the uncomfortable seat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Horan
a Cross Country Rider
from Morton, PA USA Date Reviewed: May 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
almost any at Jim Thorpe, PA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The frame is killer. Most of the componets rock, like the fork, XTR rear end and rapid-fire shifters. Great value...this bike has more bang-for-the-buck than ANYTHING else on the market. Looks great; the dirtier it gets, the better it looks.
Weaknesses:
Hmmm...Are there any? Some of the more minor componets are question-mark components...like the hubs and Koski brakes. Also, the pedals take some getting used to. (in my opinion)
Similar Products Used:
Slightly modified (and now componently-dead) 97 Giant Boulder...the frame & fork are still in existence though!
Bike Setup:
All stock, except for a shortened handlebar and a titanium saddle that lets you have kids later on in life if you wish. A quality "anti-impotence" saddle is a great investment...try one!
Bottom Line:
This bike is great...maybe even better. It will take a beating, then some more beating, and then it will ask for more. Its nice & light, along with the perfect gearing setup. The Koski brakes seem to be functioning perfectly, even though I've never heard of Koski products before. After switching to an alumium frame from a steel frame, I really appreciate the fact that it doesn't rust...its a good bike to take for a swim if you feel like cooling off on a hot summer ride. This bike gets alot of "wows", both from the rider and the observers. Good Job Schwinn!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston,Texas Date Reviewed: May 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ho chi minh (houston)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Decent Weight, Neutral Handling, Slick detailing on the frameset, Sweet Fork, Ready to Race.
Weaknesses:
Goofy Riser Bar, Ritchey Pedals arent that great in the mud, Sketchy KMC chain. No-Name Hubs.
*The KMC chain Broke after about 5 miles. I was going up a moderate uphill, out of the saddle, and a plate sheared- it didnt break at the link, it tore right through the plate. I posted a rant elsewhere on MTBR and someone from KMC got back to me about it, I think they are trying to ID the problem. On the positive side, I took out the offending link and have ridden another 200 miles on the same chain without incident.
*The Koski brakes still work great.
*The wheelset has held up great, no need to true it, I am pretty happy although I have it slated as the first major upgrade.
*After the break-in period the Ritchey pedals perform acceptably but they *stink* in the sticky mud conditions I often encounter on local trails. I see a pair of TIME's in my future. If you ride mostly in dry conditions they are a killer deal though.
*The geometry and handling continues to impress me. Altough the bike isnt twitchy, once you get a feel for the handling you can easily push it's abilities- Schwinn got it right with the Homegrown Geometry. Best of all it never feels sketchy in tight twisty singletrack.
*Bottom line: This is a great Entry-level bike for an aspiring racer or enthusiast. It has a *sweet* frame (VERY worthy of upgrades) and a great fork, which are the heart and soul of any bike. If you are looking for a sweet ride for around the neighborhood of $1000 you owe it to yourself to check this one out- The detailing on the frameset alone sets it apart from alot of other bikes in the same price range.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ron bernard
a Weekend Warrior
from keene new hampshire usa Date Reviewed: May 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
best bike for the money decent components
Weaknesses:
bottom bracket creaks 28 lbs
Similar Products Used:
specialized rockhopper
Bike Setup:
raceface 120 5% stem which needs extra spacers easton ea70 flat bar going to switch bb and cranks with rings
Bottom Line:
this bike is the schwinn moab disc i didn't see a review on this bike love that orange paint buy this bike if your looking for a good all around ride
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
al stan
a Racer
from california Date Reviewed: April 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
moab
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
ligth weight, stiff, climbs very well, good fork,good components.
Weaknesses:
rise bar a bit wide
Similar Products Used:
kona pahoehoe
Bike Setup:
xtr/lx
Bottom Line:
great bike for the price. Go and get yourself one you will love it. And if your like me and like to ride hard, this bike is very sweet. Moab one kicks @##
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett
a Weekend Warrior
from Cherry Hill, NJ Date Reviewed: March 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wissahickon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light Weight, good components, descent front shock
Weaknesses:
I think that Schwinn tried to combine a downhill bike with a X-cross country and creared the Moab 1, thats my opinion.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized RockHopper
Bottom Line:
Go get yourself a Schwinn Moab!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rattled ...
a Cross Country Rider
from houston tx usa Date Reviewed: March 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ho chi minh (houston)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This bike provides an ideal balance between stability and responsiveness on technical singletrack- not trigger happy, but goes where you point it- I was also really surprised with how well it climbs! I had never heard of the koski brand brakeset but so far I am pretty impressed with it ...
Weaknesses:
The ritchey pedals are decent but not excellent- entry/exit takes a little finesse. The generic wheelset would make a great first upgrade. The hellraiser riser bar provides great leverage while climbing and is unique (as far as riser bars go) but I am a flat bar kind of guy- If you're like me save a few ounces and spring for a flat bar.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike! Decent spec for the price point ($1050), and excellent handling on technical terrain. Subtle details like the two-tone saddle and replaceable rear derailluer hanger are nice finishing touches- This is the perfect bike for a entry level/intermediate rider who wants a bike that handles nearly as well on the local singletrack as it does on the xc course.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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