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Submitted by
erpapja
a Cross Country Rider
from Tirana, Albania
Date Reviewed: September 14, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$580.00 | | Purchased At: | Outside US, Skopje, | | Strengths: | Maneuverable, good Geometry ( down sloping top tube ), Great braking power, Strong wheels. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy, saddle not comfy for long rides, brakes will need adjustments from time to time, basic XC fork, Acera FD. | | Similar Products Used: | Avalanche 3.0 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, XCM 100 mm fork, Acera FD, Deore RD, Alivio Trigger Shifters, Truvativ IsoFlow Cranks, Hayes Mx-2 Mechanical Disc brakes, WTB SX24 Wheelset, WTB Velociraptor 2.1 Tires | | Bottom Line: | The bike feels a bit heavy ( it is indeed, weighting about 34 lbs for the 19' size model ) but maneuverable. It looks pretty beefy thus somehow justifying the weight. There is no info from Schwinn whether the frame is double butted or not ( to not consider triple butted ). However the mixture of the aluminum is 7000 series. The frame feels strong !
As an XC bike, the stem is long and quite good. So are the handlebars and the grips.
The Hayes MX-2 mech. disk brakes that come with it offer good braking power even in wet conditions. BUT, after 1 month the outer pad kept rubbing the rotor due to dirt collected in the magnet cylinder that keeps it in place. The dirt had pushed the cylinder hence the pad sticked out more than it should. You have to disassemble and clean the pads to fix this. Noise rarely comes from the fairly sized 6' rotors. The lever that Hayes claims a " 1 finger " lever is better operated with 2 fingers.
The Suntour XCM Fork is a basic XC fork not meant for harsh rides. It has an option to adjust the rebound which works.
The front derailleur does the job but could be better, while the rear Deore derailleur is quite good and responds fast paired with the Alivio trigger shifters ! ( do not forget to lube the cables from time to time ).
The WTB sx24 wheels have taken plenty of hits but still they are in great shape and do not need truing yet ! Tires offer great ride as they stick to the terrain quite well.
Do not forget to buy a chainstay protector since the chain keeps hitting the frame making any possible deep scratches.
I think the bike is great for the money you pay. The frame is upgradeable and can take some abuse!
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Downhiller
from Osan AB, South Korea
Date Reviewed: October 28, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Brown Mtn. | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bike | | Strengths: | I can not damage this frame. After a year of some pretty hard spills, paint is the only thing missing. I bought this bike for a commuter to work and weekend XC ride, then caught the downhill bug. This is not a downhill bike by all means but I've put it threw hell and it still rides like new. I looked everywhere for a bike with disc brakes and this was the best deal I could find. | | Weaknesses: | I have replaced most everything due to wearing out. My first ride the derailluer hanger broke off.(easy to replace) Shock is garbage if your riding any trails. I had to adjust the brakes quite often.(upgrade if your doing any high speed trails) Shifters took a year to wear out.(very sloppy) Seat is not comfortable at all. Stock grips need to be swapped out | | Bike Setup: | I've added parts for my next bike.(Nomad) Fox Talas shock, ODI lock-on grips, Code 5 Hyd. brakes w/ 8 in. rotors. Shimano XT crank, Shimano XTR front/rear derailluer. some no-name platform pedals with screw-in studs | | Bottom Line: | awesome bike for chill riding, or putting around town. If your getting adventurous you might want to think about upgrading parts and make sure you have a good park tool with you to make adjustments. Can't beat the price for disc brakes. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joseph Miller
a Weekend Warrior
from Downers Grove, Il USA
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Brookfield Zoo Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Harbor Country Bike | | Strengths: | Strong frame and rims. Solid bike. | | Weaknesses: | Pedals and front fork | | Similar Products Used: | K-mart Wal-mart | | Bike Setup: | Crankbrothers pedals, 50 50 | | Bottom Line: | I am 6 foot 3 and weight about 250 pounds. I have had no problems with this bike whatsoever. Except for a occasional popping sound this bike suits me just fine. It is a 19 inch frame but the way it is designed my wife can also use it. I recommend this bike to all. Ride it every weekend for about 15 miles a day. Tires are a bit noisy but grip the trail just fine. I ride the salt creek trail which is paved. Mine is the 2005 Mesa GSD. Disk brakes stop on a dime. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Jowers
a Cross Country Rider
from Bluff Park, AL USA
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Oak Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay new from Harbor Country and Bike | | Strengths: | This is a very good value of a bike. I was actually in the market and gave myself a budget of $750. When I started comparing components I found that I could get this bike for $400. Then I started looking for the best deal I could find on this bike.....new from eBay for $250 is a crazy good deal. I jumped all over it and stopped shopping immediately. | | Weaknesses: | I have not found one. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn S-25 (Target junk), Iron Horse (i don't remember the model) | | Bike Setup: | Shimano Deore (for the shifters, Hubs, brake levers, Front and Rear Derailleurs.....Hayes Disk Brakes (very nice) | | Bottom Line: | I know I got a good deal on this bike. I commute at least two days a week (usually 3) to work and back 15 miles. It is a mixture of street, trail, and side walk/curb. I also have done Oak Mountains' 18 and 21 miles loops several times without issue. I ride with others that have Specialized and GT bikes. I have also ridden their bikes and I have to say I like mine better. They have a little better components Deore LX stuff but nothing great. I don't konw if you can find a Specialized for under $600 and for a entry level bike I like mine better.
BTW, I trashed that Target Schwinn bike in six months of this same type riding. My Mesa GSD is still showing only normal signs of wear. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adrian
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | There are way too many to pick one | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance | | Strengths: | Amazing control and point. Very Durable for components that it has. Suprisingly feels a little lighter than it is especially front end. | | Weaknesses: | The derailer has a tendency to get a little loose. | | Similar Products Used: | GT avalanche 2.0 disc. Schwin Moab. Trek sumthing or uther one of the midline ones like the 4400. Boulder SE. | | Bike Setup: | Judy J1. Sram. Hayes mechanical. thats all i really care about. | | Bottom Line: | Nice bike for the price it will give your riding a more rugged feel which i personaly like. The tail end tends to throw you around a little on large bumps and the stock pedals suck. But all in all the bike has GREAT control and it feels like a pretty smooth. works for almost everything it XC pretty well dirt jumps you can even pull some sweet tricks but for downhill not so much | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark K
a Weekend Warrior
from Adelaide, South Australia
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | still learning | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Rebel Sport, Elizabeth | | Strengths: | Good reliable bike | | Weaknesses: | Pedals- one side seized up. | | Similar Products Used: | Huffy | | Bike Setup: | As web- RockShox, SRAM and Hayes disc brakes. Looking into clips to replace pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I use it nearly everyday, to and from work, about 22km a day. Unlile my previous Huffy that gave up the ghost at 450km, the Mesa is still comfortable and reliable.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
david milkiewicz
a Racer
from troy new york
Date Reviewed: November 18, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | anywere i can get air and go fast | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | dicks (it was on clearance) | | Strengths: | awsome beginer bike i used to by wallmart and it lasted a week and broke so i went out and bought this and it is awsome i took it up to a ski mounatin and everything and i go off the biggest jumps and it holds up great. a 5ft clif on a hard tail and it still doesnt brake i mean come on that is awsome. | | Weaknesses: | the suspention is bad i blew it out on a jump but it was sort of a big jump for that bike. they have improved it for 2007 so it is all set now. | | Similar Products Used: | iron horse warrior spot | | Bike Setup: | 17" frame all stock | | Bottom Line: | great bike for some one who loves to ride you can do anything with it i rode ski mounatins local trils and road trecks but for that put a different set o tires on.
a profetion downhill racer wrote this so it must be good check out me new dh bike yakuza type r | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan
a
from Adelaide, SA, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 14, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$366.00 | | Purchased At: | Rebel Sport, Marion | | Strengths: | Strong, great setup outta the box/shop, brakes are brilliant, tyres are great on gravel. | | Weaknesses: | Seat too hard for more than about 20mins riding. | | Bike Setup: | Couple of things aren't the same as the specs on Schwinns website. Forks are Manitou M-Sixes, not Rockshox. Derailleurs are Shimano Alivios, not SRAMs. I've swapped the tyres for Tioga City Slickers - mad fun! | | Bottom Line: | If you aren't that demanding of your bike, (ie - you don't abuse it), you're gonna love this thing. I got it for AU$480 (US$366 ATM) down from AU$800. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Slatts
a Weekend Warrior
from Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 3, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Jubilee Park | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$590.00 | | Purchased At: | Rebel Sport | | Strengths: | Frame, wheelset, running gear. Tyres are great, Seat is very comfortable. Grips are nice. Brakes are fantastic. | | Weaknesses: | Fork has a little play in it, but that's probably due more to my size than a problem with the fork (I'm 6'3" & 210).
Only an 8 speed cassette. 9 would be nice. | | Similar Products Used: | Kent POS | | Bike Setup: | Stock since new. Just bought a Moab LX & swapped the wheelsets, brake & cassettes over. | | Bottom Line: | Bought this bike on special after getting bit by the Mountain biking bug. Still infected after months so I must be terminal. It's only a 17" frame as that was the last one left in the store, but it's held up to daily abuse and pounding from my enormous derierre. Just been a fantastic bike & I'll be holding on to it for some time yet. Just in the process of setting it up for more commuting, but will still okay for the odd trail blast. Schwinn make great bikes for people who don't have a lot of dough but don't want to waste money on a department store piece of junk. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Olly
a Cross Country Rider
from Leicestershire, UK
Date Reviewed: October 19, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Rutland Cycling Store | | Strengths: | Nice forks rockshox J1, Hayes diskbrakes (will never go back to V-brakes), shifters are fast and responsive | | Weaknesses: | Saddle gets a little uncomfey after long journeys, | | Bike Setup: | Gonna upgrade to clipless pedals and mabey chage the saddle | | Bottom Line: | Fantastic value for money, exellent components for a cheap price. I cycle 3 times a week and had loved riding the mesa gsd. I would strongly recommed for beginners or people on a budget. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hugo!
a Weekend Warrior
from Grand Rapids, MI
Date Reviewed: October 17, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Alger Schwinn | | Strengths: | Bomb proof frame, decent components for the price, strong wheelset. | | Weaknesses: | heavy dog, shifters are junk - trashed two in two weeks riding on a bike path, switched to LX shifters and haven't had a problem since, the fork is on the soft side but it is an entry level | | Similar Products Used: | dept. store stuff. | | Bike Setup: | stock except for shifters and pedals | | Bottom Line: | I wanted a decent entry level bike to make sure I still loved to ride and didn't want to break the bank on something i wouldn't use. Shopped around and decided on this bike and have been really happy with it. It did what it was supposed to do, remind me that I loved riding. I've probably put 1000 miles on it between single track and the road and it hasn't let me down once. The bike and I have taken some great falls and I just hop back on and go. The bike is on the heavy side, but I doubt I'd ever crack this frame even with my big clyde butt on it and that says a lot! If you want a great entry level bike at a decent price this is it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
alex
a Racer
from lankershire
Date Reviewed: October 4, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Strengths: | frame is good havnt had a punture in 2 years | | Weaknesses: | well ive been doin some cross country and dirt jumping but nearly all of the things break my forks bent, my saddle bent, my mech hanger fell off, crank bent,pedals are useless nothig is good about it accept for strong rims but still the spokes come loose. ive now fitted mazzarchi m comps 2006 on it much smother ride than those old stiff forks and have spent around £350 doint it up ( around about $500 for u americans) its cost me a bomb i wouldnt reccomend this bike to any one waist of money (thats why im buyin a new bike ) | | Bottom Line: | absoulately rubbish!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! waist of money!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!dont waist ure time on it get another bike ! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
travis duncan
a Weekend Warrior
from ewa beach, hawaii, usa
Date Reviewed: August 28, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | pearl city manana trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | friend | | Strengths: | awesome forks, maybe upgrade for bigger riders such as myself. Strong rapid fire shifting, beautiful graphics and color schemes. Should never get rid of the stock tires on it. Will last forever. Solid componets from WTB and ridetuned. | | Weaknesses: | little too heavy, should try to shed some pounds if you carry it alot, other than that nothing else negative to say about it, awesome bike. | | Similar Products Used: | columbia trailhead sport, jeep grand cherokee{full suspension} | | Bike Setup: | pretty much stock, except for new Bontrager connector trail back tire, but same velociraptor tire on front. new grips, lizard skin chain stay. | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is that i use this bike every day and ride to work with it about 12 miles round trip, and it has never given me any problems. I take it off road on the weekends with my buddy and he has a TREK 4300 and i can keep up with him. So if you are just starting the sport which i am you should really consider this bike, it will last you a long time if you take care of it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Errol Wiles
a Weekend Warrior
from Durban, South Africa
Date Reviewed: August 16, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Stainbank | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$472.00 | | Purchased At: | Hattons | | Strengths: | Great looks! Very comfortable ride. I weigh 115kgs and the forks (shocks) have never given me any hassels. | | Weaknesses: | ...Just broke the 8th cog on the rear cassette...every thing else works great! (The chrome on my shocks has started to rust but i believe that has more to do with the shop i got the bike from than the quality of the parts...hence, I have not gone back to hattons since and now shop at more reliable places...) | | Similar Products Used: | Giant boulder, Trek 4300 | | Bike Setup: | Standard but about to replace the rear cassette and will replace the shocks in the near future (due to the rust) | | Bottom Line: | I think this is a really great machine, obviously as you get more into riding one tends up grade constantly as new parts and technologies come in. I rekon, unless you aiming at winning some championship (in which case you would probably have a sponser and noy worry how much your set up costs) this bike will serve you well!!Its my first 'real' mountain bike and would buy it again with-out hesitation! Great for beginners and enthusiasts! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a Weekend Warrior
from Culver City, CA
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Santa Monica Mtns | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$340.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bicycles | | Strengths: | Well equipped for the price. Forks and the mechanical disc brakes work well for a slightly pudgy curb-hopper like me. Very smooth, silent ride. Sturdy setup. | | Weaknesses: | Haven't really pushed it hard yet (except I crashed it once--read on)--no problems so far. The "comfort" saddle is still a little harsh on long rides. | | Similar Products Used: | Motiv MTBs from Costco | | Bike Setup: | My favorite commute machine.
Stock + LED lamps & speedometer. | | Bottom Line: | I'm no daredevil--use the bike for occasional commute and weekend rides. Wanted an affordable but decent bike and happened to find the MESA on sale. Extremely happy with the purchase. Always looking forward to a chance to ride.
Sturdy, sturdy setup. Once I forgot that I had the bike on the roof rack (upright type with wheels intact) of my van and drove into a bank parking garage (my wife had warned me I would do this one day). I heard a loud CRASH@#$!&* and thought that the bike was finished. As passersby looked on with giggles, when I stopped to pick up what was left of my bike off the pavement, the bike was fine--aside from scratches and needing to re-adjust the brake calipers and gear shift (they were jostled out of their position), nothing was bent/broken the wheels were still true. Still a smooth, quiet ride, and best of all, didn't have to explain to the wife why I needed a new bike :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Dyer
a Downhiller
from La Crosse Wisconsin USA
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Human Powered Trails | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Purchased At: | MC Sports(La Crosse) | | Strengths: | Overall this bike is very strong, although new pedals and probally a seat is needed right off the bat. I think I destroyed them in about a week maybe not even. other than those few things I am happy. The rims(WTB speed Disc) are decent, they have holded up to many a dirt jump and rocky trail | | Weaknesses: | Pedals, Seat, Frnt. and Rear Deraillers | | Similar Products Used: | Gt avalanche, a few others | | Bike Setup: | Marzochii Bomber fork(130mm) Adrenaline tires, Kona platform Pedals, Bash guard, Stubby Stem, Shimano rear shifter new, no front derailler | | Bottom Line: | The Bottom Line is that this bike is a steal for what it is, the store was having a big sale and when I saw the bike it was 320.00 and I came back a week later and it was 239.00, I walked out of with that puppy for about 250.00 with the sales tax. not bad considering wholesale is 240.00. I have put another 260.00 or so into it. with a new fork and pedals and whatnot. if you can find this bike buy it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roman
a
from Tallinn, Estonia
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Hawaii Express | | Strengths: | Disc brakes - not bad, average rims, good tires.. frame looks strong | | Weaknesses: | Well.. I ride a hard-street style, and if you plan to do hard riding, then everything else MUST be changed/upgraded | | Similar Products Used: | Cheap XC bike - Classic Legend | | Bike Setup: | Converted to SS with rear Da Bomb chain-tensioner, Maxxis Hookworm (front & back) tires, some cheap saddle (for more comfort) - cause original is hard as stone, Truvativ Hussefelt pedals, Truvativ Hussefelt stem.. and there will be more upgrades ! | | Bottom Line: | As a bike with stock components, it fits just well for light cross country riding and for commuting ...but if you plan to do hard stuff - you must upgrade all components =p | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ali vasarella
a Weekend Warrior
from bozeman, mt, usa
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | e-bay | | Strengths: | fast-shifting shifters, strong brakes, good overall components, great fit, good looking | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Bike Setup: | original with manitou front shock | | Bottom Line: | i bought the 2005 model and took her out for her first trail ride yesterday.. i kicked my husband's ass 'cuz i could shift like a dream, she climbs great, she brakes well even if the brakes haven't been broken in yet. i'm very very excited to have this bike. at first i was a little worried because i've come to think of schwinn as a bike sold at k-mart, but this one is a collection of WONDERFUL components, even down to the jagwire cables. i'm stoked about this bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Vic, Australia
Date Reviewed: April 3, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Anglesea | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$499.00 | | Purchased At: | Rebel Sport | | Strengths: | Great quality and very strong | | Weaknesses: | Low end forks | | Similar Products Used: | GT Avalanche 2 | | Bike Setup: | Standard only changed to Shimano Clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | Hd the bike for two years just gone and it's been great. It gets ridden daily as a commuter on a route that takes me through various off road terrain and it gets a pretty rocky work out every week day of its life.
To date (in 2 years) no significant problems with the bike, and it doesn't really get a lot of TLC either.
Occasional *delayed* shifting but probably care and attention more than a fault. Also rear brake has lost a lot of it's strength and possibly needs some work also.
Very happy and as others have said more than I expected from an entry level mountain bike. Great commuter especially when over tracks. I want to upgrade but this thing just won't wear out!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria, Australia
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | S/h off nephew! | | Strengths: | Weighing in at 123kilos when I bought this bike, I was expecting things to break straight away!! But the Gsd has made my eyes open! I got started on a Huffy for fun, but bought the Schwinn for $400au, it had only been ridden a few times and was as new. I have now ridden countless kilometers on it, rail trails, road, and dirt roads. It is a beaut bike.Nothing has broken, the crank caps do come loose, I will try loctite like mentioned in another review below.
The ders need adjusting as I cannot get top gear in upper two ranges, but I have not adjusted anything yet.
| | Weaknesses: | I too tried without the pedal clips, but have found them indespensable, once you have a few off's you get used to them very quick! Otherwise, nothing really. The suspension worked for me, and as I have lost 20 kilos since riding this bike, it gets smoother as it beds in. I think it is slightly small for me, but that is not a fault of the bike.
Light weight and sturdy frame, just love it!
| | Similar Products Used: | Huffy tank! | | Bike Setup: | Mostly original, have bb bar buddies, a sigma speedo, have not changed much at all. I like it as it came from the shop! | | Bottom Line: | A great bike for the person who wants to ride the rail trails in Oz. Or the fire trails up the bush. Granny gear is great, slower than walking pace, you are only limited by the steepness of the hill, and traction. A well designed all rounder and excellent introduction to mountainbiking! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Saldivar
a Cross Country Rider
from Pomona, Ca, USA
Date Reviewed: December 28, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Bonelli park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Dennison schwinn | | Strengths: | The price that you can get this bike for. A good bike to start on. | | Weaknesses: | The front and rear der gave my trouble right out the shop. But I think it had to do with not proper shifting. Once I learned how to shift I changed to Shimano xt der frnt and rear. | | Similar Products Used: | None this is my firsy mtn bike. | | Bike Setup: | All stock except for a C9 seat, xt front and rear der, 14 gauge spokes on the rear rim,platform pedals and speedo. I am thinking of trying clip on pedals. I just want to see if what kind of gain they will give me if any. | | Bottom Line: | Its a good bike that I ride at least 3 times a week all trail. I have learned a lot on this bike. If you just getting started in mtn biking you will not be sorry with this bike. If your a seasoned rider and your willing to do a few up grades to this bike it will work out for you too. All the things that I changed on this bike were because of my miss use. I will most likly keep this bike for a lomg time. Ill will just try some new mods in time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JAKE LYONS
a Racer
from AUSTRALIA
Date Reviewed: October 23, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | DUNNO | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1.00 | | Purchased At: | GARAGE SALE | | Strengths: | WELL IT BROKE STRAIGHT AWAY. I WASTED A WHOLE DOLLAR ON THIS PIECE OF SH!T. I WANT A REFUND | | Weaknesses: | IT SHOULD BE CALLED
SCHWINN
"WEAKNESS" | | Similar Products Used: | THE B!TCH DOWN THE ROAD!!! YUM. | | Bike Setup: | PLASTIC PIECE OF SH!T | | Bottom Line: | DONT BUY IT. SCHWINN ARE GERMAN. DONT GET SUCKED INTO THIS PIECE OF SH!T. PEOPLE WHO HAVE THIS BIKE ARE SO G@Y. THIS BIKE MAKES HUFFY LOOK GOOD. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Weaver
a Cross Country Rider
from Lancaster, PA
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Fair Hill, in MD | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Dick's Sporting Goods | | Strengths: | Value for the dollar! Frame design; low standover, easy to bail from, or the opposite, to get onto. Overall package of componetry is extremely good for this price bracket. Has been extremely reliable. Read "Bottom Line" for more. | | Weaknesses: | I had only one problem with the bike. The bottom bracket retaining cups were coming loose frequently. After the forth time of re-adjusting them I applied loc-tite, three months later and no problems. Please note, I am a mechanic and I do know to properly torque a fastener, this was a fluke. | | Similar Products Used: | GT avalanche 3.0, my wifes, I wanted one for myself but the store was out, good thing, because I ended up with this excellent Schwinn! | | Bike Setup: | Free Agent bmx pedals, bell to warn the aloof, kenda 1.95 road slick tires, and a different seat stem. | | Bottom Line: | I am 6' tall and 230lbs. I ride this bike at least 4 times a week, usually to work. Work is about 5 miles one way through the city. I can say that this bike is definitley put through its paces, but not beaten. I will ride up and down stairs, off of curbs, ledges, and various city obstacles. It shifts ok and rides great even after 6 months of this clydesdale pushin' it. I have a full suspension bike that I XC race on and have about 10 times the money in. Although, this Schwinn is the ticket for a second bike or a GREAT entry level XC hardtail, this bike can be upgraded as the rider develops!
P.S. The disc brakes are a great feature on this bike, stops good and is less affected by water or mud. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Portage, IN
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Outback Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Kozy's Chicago | | Strengths: | Great components for the price. I'm 230 lbs and this bike holds up great offroad. | | Weaknesses: | Disc brakes squeek loudly under hard breaking offroad. However, this is my first bike with disc brakes so maybe this is common. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Mesa GSX ('97) | | Bottom Line: | I do an equal mix of offroad and paved trail riding and so far this 1st month with the GSD has been more than I expected for a bike under $400. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a Weekend Warrior
from Norway
Date Reviewed: April 19, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Estenstad marka, trondheim | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$340.00 | | Purchased At: | Obs sport, trondheim, norway | | Strengths: | Super brakes, and the frame is super fun. The bike is easy to controle and invites to alot of fun. | | Weaknesses: | The frok is a bitt to stiff for me, i am about 65-70kg and 177cm. The preload ajustment doesent help much. If it doesent get any better i will try softer springs:) Other than that i cant find anything. | | Similar Products Used: | An 9 year old scott boulder with marzzochi z4 front fork. | | Bike Setup: | Standard | | Bottom Line: | In norway it half off at most stores, so its a great by!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edmund
a Cross Country Rider
from Dumfries, Virginia
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | GW Parkway | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$329.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bike Shop | | Strengths: | The bike has a lot strengths, dual disc brakes, Shimano equipment, light weight rims, Strong frame, big velociraptor tires. The cost compared to similar MTBs. | | Weaknesses: | Non so far. | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose Tyax Super, Raleigh M80 | | Bike Setup: | The whole bike is done up really well. The craftsmanship is really impressive. | | Bottom Line: | This is a mountain bike with the same equipment found in other high-end MTBs at a half or fraction of the cost. The ride is very comfortable and the suspension is great. With the dual Hayes MX-2 disc brakes, stopping is no concern. I used to have a Mongoose and I am very pleased to see that this MTB is just the same if not better. I highly recommend this to anyone who is looking into getting an excellent MTB without them worrying on breaking the bank. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis Morris
a Weekend Warrior
from Carl Junction , Mo. Jasper
Date Reviewed: September 7, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Frisco Greenway Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$370.00 | | Purchased At: | Joplin bike and fitness | | Strengths: | I was really impressed with the quality of bike for the money, I got a outstanding value for the money, this bike has really given me the mountain bike bug. | | Weaknesses: | I really can't find one, it is utterly perfect!
Few purchases in my life have given me this satisfaction, way to go Schwinn. everyone who sees is extremely impressed! | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 820 which I bought new and rode little. After all it was about 12 years old, it was hot in its day, but too small for me | | Bike Setup: | At first I instantly took off those pedal stirrups, it thought they were strange, but after about a week I put them back on, and realized they had a purpose, once you get use to them, you wonder how you got by without them. | | Bottom Line: | Schwinn has really upset the competition with this bike, it truly is a excellant bike for the money, shortly after buying it one will feel like a racer. this is a very smooth machine that has given me the mountain bike bug. This has also caused me to go out and subscribe to a mountain bike magazine for two years. Currently I am riding about 24-32 miles a week not bad for someone 5'11'
and 240 lbs. Well see where I'll be in 6 months, I feel much better already and intend to ride for many years to come, this bike is responsible for this new passion. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
karl
a Weekend Warrior
from Greenfield, Wisconsin (US)
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | Schwinn; direct from factory | | Strengths: | This bike is excellent. I have a rock path behind my house and this thing flies over it with ease. I have No real problems with riding it- I love the disc brakes and the quick gear shifting. Amazing bike overall, considering it's a $500 bike that I got at about $300 with modifications. Dealers pay $240 for this bike direct from Schwinn, and my family works for a schwinn partner. | | Weaknesses: | confusing shifting mechanism. On one, the thumb is to shift up and finger to move down and vice versa. It only takes a little while to get used to, though. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Hardrock | | Bike Setup: | added Handlebar extensions (road riding) and am probably going to add a headlight and speedometer (gotta know!) | | Bottom Line: | If you need a new bike, this is the way to go. Minor modifications may be needed, but as soon as the 2005's come in, the price for this may go down even further, so I recommend you pick this up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
AiRboRnE
a Cross Country Rider
from brewster ny usa
Date Reviewed: July 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | mine | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | ski haus | | Strengths: | everything, decent fork, nice disk brakes, the value i got was incredible because its the 02-03 odel, and the shop had a 19 inch in stock, and i got set up really nicly, great deal, also, the older model come with a rockshox judy fork, instead of the suntour, which i am not fond of | | Weaknesses: | pedal clips, and thats about it, im fairly new, or actually just getting back into this, and a 27 speed would be nice, but who cares, 24 is so much better that a 1984 rockhopper!!!! | | Similar Products Used: | rockhopper, trek 820, all real old, old('95) mongoose rocadile. | | Bike Setup: | stock, new seat, adding a catseye | | Bottom Line: | an excellent bike for the value, very sturdy, good fork, solid bike overall, makes you feel like a better rider, which is always a good feeling to have, perfect package in my eyes | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
3dig
a Weekend Warrior
from Bellingham , Wa
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | '04 model GSD nice frame fit, Im 6'-2" got the XL...bike came with full gruppo upgrade, Avid mech. disks, and some other goodies, which made this a real good deal...not so with standard components, ive heard.. | | Weaknesses: | none so far, Ive only ridden it 3xs, and Im suspicious of the front fork taking all the abuse im planning on giving it | | Bottom Line: | very pleased, upgrades are required. Im supprised how light this bike is, and for the money paid, I can make all the upgrades I need to, w/o breaking the 1k mark..4 stars out of a possible 5. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Independence
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Landahl | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$499.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Hayes Disc brakes. They have saved me in more than one occasion. They stop quick and without much noise, if any. No more V-brakes for me. Great wheelset and VelociRaptor tires. No issues except in deep mud. Street riding with these tires...not that great, but I fixed that with a second set of rims, rotors, and slicks. | | Weaknesses: | The stock viscount saddle had to go. I moved on to a Serfas Vado DD. Now I am much happier. | | Bike Setup: | Added a Cateye cyclcocomputer, Serfas seat, Vuelta Excalibur Free Ride Wheelset. The rest is standard. | | Bottom Line: | I don't think I could have done any better for the price. The disc brakes work awesome. The frame feels strong and is just my size. The grips are grippy, the pedals are so so. I really like the handlebar setup and the rapid fire shifters. All in all, this whole bike is worth the money. Will you need to upgrade a few things to make it fit you? I don't know, comfort is an individual thing. If you are a beginner or just need an all around bike, this is a good setup. It's taken a beating and has not broken yet. I am in the Clydesdale category so you know this bike takes a beating. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Murray
a Weekend Warrior
from Beverly Hills, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Chesbro Park, Agoura Hills, CA | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$540.00 | | Purchased At: | The Pedal Shop. Toluca Lake, CA | | Strengths: | This bike is awsome. I felt it really held me in as I rode. I definatly felt one with the bike. The disc breaks were great, front suspension was awsome, and most importantly, it attracted the attention of a few ladies also. | | Weaknesses: | I would have to agree with the other reviewer, the pedel straps were a pain in the but. I was thinking about taking them off, but after reading his/her review, I think I will leave them on. | | Similar Products Used: | No bikes with front suspension or disk breaks. | | Bottom Line: | For the value, $540, it is definatly well worth the price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Downhiller
from Sydney,NSW,Australia
Date Reviewed: March 14, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Excellent set up, awsome braking power and smooth ride, well balanced and it's aggresive enough to accomplish those jumps etc.. | | Weaknesses: | Well there arn't to many, so far maybe found that the pedal straps that came with it gave me the craps so I took them off, but after using it for a while and finding that my foot keeps slipping off whilst airborne or when I require power(I.E a quick burst of speed & my foot slips off)I think ill put them back on. Also my back tire like's to lose traction just when I need it HA HA | | Similar Products Used: | Iron horse hill billy and GINSU, I went for the hard tail in the end due to it's better set up and strengh. | | Bike Setup: | just standed, what came with it, took off things like bell and front reflector but other than that all the components that came with her have performed awsomely. | | Bottom Line: | If your into, trails with a few drop off's and jumps. Plus a few tech sections then this is the bike for you. really nice ride, the tires and rims that come with her are sweet and really aggresive for mud and dirt and So far only after a few stacks and crashes it hasn't a got a problem on it.
LOVE THIS BIKE !!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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