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Submitted by
Boats
a Racer
from Garden Grove, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: October 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | El Moro | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | E bay | | Strengths: | Great handling, travel, burly frame that can take a beating, lifetime frame warranty | | Weaknesses: | a little heavy, stock components suck, 2.3" tire is biggest you can squeeze between the chainstays without dropping to a 24" rim (unless you go with michelins). | | Similar Products Used: | s-works enduro, rocky mountain slayer, turner 5-spot, | | Bike Setup: | Fox Float RLC fork, Pushed Float RC rear, SRAM XO drive train, 24x2.5 Kenda Nevegnals | | Bottom Line: | This bike when upgraded in the suspension and component areas easily competes with higer end bikes (intense, turner, etc) There is a little problem with pedal bob on the stock Fox shock which is easily corrected with shock tuning. This is a 5" travel bike that climbs well, desends like a bat out of hell and is built like a tank (just look at the headset butting). 3 chilis in overall because as soo as you buy this you will dump some coin into components. Or you can get the pro model | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ido weisel
a
from israel
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Strengths: | very good rear suspension,an do everything | | Weaknesses: | a beat of bob | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4700 | | Bike Setup: | shifters alivio rear alivio front xt
crank fsa
fork manitou splice
brakes hayes ih2 | | Bottom Line: | the best bike i have ever ride | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Big A
a Weekend Warrior
from Virginia
Date Reviewed: November 27, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1250.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | -The XL frame geometry fits my 6'5" body very well.
-Hayes brakes
-XTR rear derailleur | | Weaknesses: | -some parts I did not like very well, see below. | | Similar Products Used: | Ellsworth Truth, Specialized FSR | | Bike Setup: | (upgrades over stock)
-FOX TALAS R fork
-Mavic Crossmax Enduro wheelset w/ Continental Vertical Pro UST 2.3's + Stan's (NO FLATS!)
-Easton XC Carbon bar w/ ODI Ruffian lock-ons
-Time ATAC XS pedals
-XT cassette/ SRAM chain
-WTB Rocket V saddle | | Bottom Line: | Let me start of by saying that I love this bike. I purchased it at a bike shop that I used to work at so I got a great price. However, many of the stock parts were mediocre at best. I have been riding the bike for about two years and have had changed out a lot of parts.
The Psylo SL that came stock is junk. I replaced the spring with a firm one since it felt like a pogo-stick in a pool of jello. The nicest thing about the fork was its travel adjustment. The Psylo's rebound damping is like an on-off switch. Either it is slow and the fork is noisy (with a strange klunk noise) or it is way too fast. There seemed to be no middle ground. I swapped the fork after a year of riding for a FOX TALAS R. Excellent upgrade, that fork is amazing. In the first five minutes after installing it I noticed it is way stiffer, much more supple and adjustable.
The stock Enduro 2.2 tires decent on hardpack, but washed out in loose soil and did not offer much climbing grip. I swapped those out along with the Mavic 223/spec. hub wheelset. The Mavic Crossmax wheelset is lighter, rolls faster, and has yet to come out of true! I chose the Conti Vertical Pro 2.3 UST tires since I was going tubeless, added a bit of stans for insurance and have never had a flat. The grip is outstanding, the best trail tires I have used yet.
Also, the stock 525 pedals were crap, always clogging up with mud and not offering very smooth entry/release. Replaced them with Time ATAC XS pedals (my first set of times) and now I am hooked on Time. Sweet.
Also the Enduro saddle feels like you are riding on a 2x4. Swapped it for a WTB Rocket V, saved my groin.
Now down to the characteristics of the bike. I love my setup now, the handling is sweet (turned rear link to 70.5 degrees), I can really rail corners and tight switchbacks and it is easy to transition your weight around the bike. It decends well but the rear can be a little jarring over real rough sections, probably because I run about 210 psi in the shock. The Enduro now feels perfectly balanced with the FOX fork and float rear shock. The XL size fits great, and the weight is not too bad (around 29 lbs). The Hayes brakes have been great, replaced the pads a few months ago, still stopping strong.
Overall I am very pleased. The frame is still holding up. Best trail/XC bike I have owned, you can ride it all day, 5" front and rear, good to go.
5 chilis for value since I got a pro-deal from the LBS. 4 flamers for overall since some of the stock parts were junky.
| Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: November 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | The Streets of San Fran | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Private party | | Strengths: | Solid as a rock and able to hold up a heavy rider (220); confidence inspiring with that feeling of safety when out on the edge | | Weaknesses: | The seat and grips (a personal picky thing) | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale F600 hard tail | | Bike Setup: | Stock..butt got used to the seat; but swapped out the grips for lockers and added Specialized bar ends for climbing | | Bottom Line: | Strong and solid enabling one to go over virtually anything with confidence...was in over my head on a downhill but able to reel the rig in. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a Racer
from Seb Town ,Ca
Date Reviewed: November 2, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Almost everything. The float is a nice touch to the rear end. I love this bike!!! | | Weaknesses: | I'd have to say the psylo. Its a nice fork.... but when your 190 lbs of sh*t it gets a little squishy. | | Similar Products Used: | Fidst fs. | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi dj1 mrp dual slalom | | Bottom Line: | I like this bike for mountain cross/ dual slalom. The float has a nice feel to it and its pretty light. I switched the psylo out for a marzocchi dj1 because i needed a burlier fork to handle dual slalom. Now that im getting into downhill, this bike works well enough on the easy stuff... but on the hard stuff:( i wish i had a little more travel. I would definately reccomend this bike to anyone interested in a good bike thatcan handle dirt jumping, or just trail riding. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from Andover, CT USA
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Any will do | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Sunshine Cycles | | Strengths: | Ultra-plush suspension all-around, placement/ease of use of shifters/brakes,excellent component group, FSR suspension and a really sharp looking bike, to boot. | | Weaknesses: | None really. Occassional chain jumps on rear cassette, but probably just break-in period issues. Also, discs seem to rub quite often, yet one month adjustments will fine-tune that issue. Stock seat was wildly uncomfortable, so new Serfas saddle is like sitting in butter! Stock hand grips were kinda lame, but replaced those, too. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondal Gemini, Jamis Dakar XLT 1.0, Giant DMS3, | | Bike Setup: | Hayes Brakes, Shimano components, Rock Shox Psylos up front, Fox loat behind, | | Bottom Line: | This is one of the most utilitarian bikes,with all it's varying adjustments, that one could ask for. An Enduro in every sense of the word. I ride 10-15 miles per day, and after a few after market changes I find this bike to be transcendent. Ultra-plush comfort when riding down country roads, and then lean/mean when all travel is locked down. Riding this rig while listening to Garcia (Winterland 12/29/77) work his magic on my discman gizmo was like livng in a dream, like making love to one of the many beautiful woman that surround us....that's what this bike is like, a beautiful young lady who gives you a pleasant ride everytime, who's personality is highly adaptable to your changing (riding) moods and who's always happy to see you!! Specialized has created quite a bike with this one. Be still beating heart.... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BVT
a Weekend Warrior
from Vermont
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Smiley | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Competitive Edge, Hadley, MA | | Strengths: | Frame, brakes, travel, adjustability, some parts | | Weaknesses: | Some parts - rims and hubs are XC duty, not much else | | Similar Products Used: | 1998 FSR Comp, tested Fuel, VT, Enduro Comp, others | | Bike Setup: | Stock for now | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. ITch switch works - it's much better than TALAS for the rear (a la Fuel). Short travel/higher spring rate for XC/climbs, long travel/lower spring rate for play/descending. Why would you want to shorten your travel, lower the ride height/slacken the geometry, and keep the same spring rate at the rear?
The Psylo SL works pretty well. I'm not a big Rock Shox fan but this is the best I've had (old Judy TT was hazardous).
I got a great deal from Charlie at Comp Edge on a closeout 2003, so the value is off the charts. Overall, for my heavy XC, light FR riding, the bike is ideal. 5x5 roasted turds. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jack Offalot
a Downhiller
from California
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | but rape | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Pacific Bike | | Strengths: | This bike has a good fork. The frame is sturdy. the xtr is so smooth! | | Weaknesses: | the float isnt the best shock for downhillin. Its hard to find a good coil shock to put on it. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome. I would get a chain guide for it because the chain falls off a lot. The rear shock isnt the best(maybe its because im 145 pounds of sh**). I havent broken anything on it and that s good because i fall a lot. This bike is great! Anyoe can by this bike. Its held up for me great.It soaks up alot even with the air shock. Its an awesome bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz
Date Reviewed: January 24, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Another Bike Shop in Santa Cruz | | Strengths: | Versitile. Good for climbing and downhilling. Great travel on both shocks. | | Weaknesses: | The rear wheel might slip a little on climbing steep loose stuff. But I don't know if it my high expectations for this bike or if I have to make a few adjustments. Still too new to be sure at this point. | | Similar Products Used: | No full suspension. I'm coming off of no suspension bikes. I've been riding the Bridgestone MB1 for years. | | Bike Setup: | This is for the 2004 Enduro Expert. Its got Fox Talas RL 80-125mm in front and Fox Float RL in back with the enduro itch switch. Shimano discs breaks (6-inch discs). Factory issue. See the shimano website for specs. | | Bottom Line: | Love this bike!!! I'm 42 and am a hard core climber who was tired of getting so hammered on the downhill with my hard frame MB1. So I wanted a bike that was a good climber and a good downhiller. I was worried about it's weight, beefy tires etc slowing me down on climbing, but on my usual hour and a half rides I am getting the uphill portion done in the usual 45 minutes. I was also thinking I needed lockouts on front and back, but now that I have them, I am finding that if I didn't have them, I wouldn't miss them. It only bobs when you stand up and crank on the pedals. I think the long travel of both the front and rear shocks is key. Now that I'm riding the enduro with its 6.5 inches of travel, I'm glad I didn't go for a lighter cross country bike with 4 inches of travel. The downhill is just too fun! This is a great bike for the $. Highly recommended for anyone who is into fun (probably not a good racing bike, but who cares!) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie Bowen
a Weekend Warrior
from Wells, Somerset
Date Reviewed: November 3, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Quantocks | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | King's Cycles Taunton. | | Strengths: | Soaks up anything. Still light enough to climb technically.
Flexibility afforded by the Psylo's and the Itch switch/lock out. | | Weaknesses: | Chain rings. Saddle. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Epic. Trek 6000 hardtail. | | Bike Setup: | Stock apart from a more comfy saddle. Mudguards. | | Bottom Line: | The bike is then nuts. I was having a really hard job deciding between the Enduro and the Epic, as at that time I was loving longer rides and big climbs. I chose the Enduro over the Epic because I had started to get into some steeper, rockier downhill type riding and wanted a bike that would cope with it all. I made the right choice. The Enduro felt like a really short bike after my old Trek 6000, and I was concerned that I would loose climbing ability. However, after messing round for a few rides I have found a good climbing position. I have moved the riser bars to swing forward a bit and replaced the saddle with one that sits more forward. This has transfered more weight to the front of the bike for a good climb.
As far as the downhills go, the bike is great. It inspires confidence and is FUN, FUN, FUN! I am 33 but this bike makes me act like a 20 year old!
I have noticed that the tyres fade/wash out round corners as one or two other reviewers have mentioned. The Enduro Pro's are dead light though and I will stick with them till they wear out and then stick some panracers on.
All in all after 2 months of owner ship and about 400 miles of riding of all kinds I am really happy with this bike. I would recommend it to anyone except the hard core racer. If you are honest with yourself, and what you really want is to have some fun on your bike then this is the baby....
Can only give it four for value, because all bikes are pricey in the UK aren't they... I did get a VERY good deal on this at King's Cycles in Taunton though. Very good indeed. Nice folks too.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Churchland
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: September 8, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Adjustability | | Weaknesses: | a few costcutting component specs | | Similar Products Used: | Kona stinky, trek Y, various hardtails | | Bike Setup: | 2002 version w/ Manitou Black | | Bottom Line: | Here is my 1.5 yr update. I am still generally pleased as punch. If you can only afford one bike, the enduro is a great choice. Add barends, crank the travel down, lower the bars and put on narrow tires and you have a very capable (if a bit heavy) cross-country machine. Put on some big tires, raise the bars, open up the travel and you have something bordering on a freeride bike. I just rode Northstar and the bike performed flawlessly. It got me down Karpiel in one piece and was still a pleasure to ride on the longer stuff that required more pedalling.
There are some heavy components on this bike, so its heft could definitely be reduced. However it rides so nice you may not care. The rear shock is truly a marvel. I am convinced it would have been one of the most successful shocks in history were it specced on any other brands. The world is clearly headed towards stable platform shocks, but it is still hard to beat the itch switch. Still, I am deeply curious to see how the 4 bar linkage (still one of the best designs around) performs with a stable platform shock. Should be awesome.
No breaks or cracks yet, though this has clearly been a problem for a bunch of the 2002's. Perhaps because I bought mine late in the year the problem was fixed?
At any rate, a great bike with multiple personalities. Its nearest competitor would have to be the SC Blurr. My guess is that the enduro with a manitou swinger or the like will pedal as well as the blurr. It should also be noted that despite all the great things about the blurr, the rear end will still lock under breaking, something the enduro's does not do. To me, this is a big deal. I want my suspension to work when I need it most. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Northridge, California, USA
Date Reviewed: August 23, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Local mountains | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1750.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo, Santa Monica | | Strengths: | At 6'5" tall and 220 lbs., I need the feeling of a large secure bike which the Specialized Expert provides. Without question the versatility and variability of the bike setup is a major plus. Specifically, being able to lower the front forks 3-4" prior to climbing a steep hill makes a big difference. Also, being able to lock out both the front and rear shock and change the damping is also a major plus. Lastly, the Hayes disc brakes and I-Switch, provide even further flexibility. | | Weaknesses: | The first time a rode this bike I had a serious problem with buyers remorse. I thought it rode worse than my old $275 bike I purchased 5 years ago. The chain fell off 3 times on my first ride! Two of the times I was riding on the street towards the dirt trails 3 miles away. Despite the upgrade to XT components (front shifter and derailer), the shifting was no better than my old tank. In otherwords, if you're riding on level surface at a nominal pace and shift gears everything is as smooth as glass. However, if you stand up or push hard while seated, and try to shift... forget it! The chain gets locked between the gears, if it shifts at all, particularly at the front derailer. This was very disappointing considering all the hype of LX, XT, and XTR.
The next major problem on day-1 was the rebound adjustments for the front and rear shock. It was if the shocks would only compress and not rebound. On my second 10 mile ride, the chain fell off 2 more times and after fiddling with the suspension, nothing improved. At that point my goal was to get my money back... but wait.
After letting off some steam to the store manager they vowed to work on the bike and make everything function properly. I can't believe it, but the bike now rides completely different. Now that the rebound is functioning properly, and the chain has been adjusted (actually took it in 3 times for that) the bike feels extremely solid. So after 3 trips to the repair shop (25 miles away) I'm pleased with my bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing close. Just my old Trek. I did demo the Canondale Jekyl 1000. Very nice... | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded all components to XT. It only cost about 60 dollars. I don't think it made any difference - save your money. | | Bottom Line: | I have two perspectives about this bike and any other recreational bicycle that cost nearly $2,000. From a logical perspective I really don't think it's worth the money. I think I just got caught up in all the hype and researched too many articles that described the high-end features and components that make very little difference, if you're not a serious racer (which means you pay the bills with your bike). I've seen nearly identical featured bikes at 40% less that would provide the identical ride. Of course they don't have the big brand name recognition, but who cares?
On the other hand, I can truly say I have the best looking dirt bike on the block, and the cost of it makes me feel more compelled to ride more often. Admittedly, the bike now operates fine, but if I had to do it all over again I wouldn't buy the Specialized. I would go for the ultimate looking machine (Lefty fork) or make a more logical purchase that matches my recreational level (10-20 miles, 2-3 times per week). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Campbell, CA. USA
Date Reviewed: August 15, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Nisene Marks | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1750.00 | | Purchased At: | Insider's Deal | | Strengths: | Awesome Frame, Fox Float Rear Suspension, adjustable travel,good looking rig. | | Weaknesses: | Specialized saddles are the worst! Shimano M515 are a piece of junk. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized A-1 Hardtail w/ Marzocchi Fork. | | Bike Setup: | Got rid of saddle and replaced with Bontrager, replaced Shimano pedals with Ritchie Pro V3 pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I had never rode a full suspension bike before. This thing rocks! It took a while and some help to get the front forks and rear suspension dialed into my body size and riding style but now it's really awesome. My old hardtail used to make my back ache (I'm 50 years old!) on long uphill rides but now with the full suspension I never have that feeling. The adjustable travel and the lock out features (if you need to) are really great. I concurr with a previous reviewer, this thing feels like a couch it's so plush. And it hauls ass downhill. You will not feel the extra weight (as compared to a XC Bike) on the uphills. Specialized could have used better pedals though, but what the heck, just get better ones. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anthony
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City, Utah
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Wasatch Crest! | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Center, Salt Lake | | Strengths: | Componentry, Styling/color, and adjustable travel | | Weaknesses: | Seat and soft springs in the Psylo's | | Similar Products Used: | None used, only tested at the shops, GT I drive, a couple of Trek models and a couple of Cannondales. I just upgraded to Full Suspension. Previously rode Specialized Rockhopper Pro FS Comp Hardtail - another GREAT bike! I love Specialized bikes!!! | | Bike Setup: | Stock with the exception of Xtra firm U-Turn Kit for the Psylo's, Specialized Comp Mtn. Shoes... | | Bottom Line: | What an amazing bike. The only trouble I have had with it has been getting used to Full Suspension and Clipless pedals. The pedals spook me out... I have seen some paint chips like some of the other reviewers have, but it doesn't bother me too much. The main weakness for me was that the Psylo forks came with medium springs in the U-Turn assy. I opted to swap them out for the Xtra firm set and it makes a world of difference Rockshox P/N 11.4306.270.004. I have a lot more confidence when diving into a turn or taking drops. don't get me wrong, I am no hucker by any strech of my imagination but I do like to ride hard and take jumps. Being 200-210 lbs, the stiffer springs made a big difference. I have had the bike since 7/2/2003 and have only ridden 200 miles on it. The harder I ride it the more responsive it becomes. I ride it up almost as easilly as I ride it down... Can't believe I waited so long for a full suspension bike. It was worth the 2 years of saving... It climbs like a goat, single tracks like a fighter jet and decends like it is on rails... I think about a direction change and it almost makes the adjustment for me... Unbelievable! I am not sure how it worked for everyone else, but I had to save long and hard for this bike, and have ZERO "buyers remorse". I never thought I would buy a bike this expensive but it has been worth every penny!(to me its expensive but then a Turner frame costs almost the same as my entire bike) Thanks to everyone else for sharing their comments, I read the reviews and went shopping... I saw this bike first, checked out the rest and then went back drooling for my new toy...!!! Thanks Everyone!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brett Grieves
a Cross Country Rider
from Newcastle
Date Reviewed: July 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Glentress (Scotland) | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | Evans Cycles UK | | Strengths: | Geometry, Smooth ride. BUT most of all Versitility. | | Weaknesses: | Spoke nipples (yes, Im being very picky, BUT ive replaced 4 of them now)
Fox Float RL Itch (Rear shock had some problem, had it replaced 3 times) | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Gemini 1000, Giant NR2, Orange sub 5 | | Bike Setup: | Standard setup with Shimano disc + Fox Forks, XT rear mech (I snapped the XTR), X-Lite Seat tube. | | Bottom Line: | This is the second review that I have placed on the Enduro 03. Ive been riding it now for 6 months. Ive done about 1000 miles on it, broke the Pyslos (replaced with Fox Vanillas 125r), broke the rear hangar and mech, worn down the middle chain ring and had it replaced. Gone through 4 sets of pads. After all this the rear suspension is still as plush as ever.
Ive ridden alot of similar travel bikes, but I just dont get that invincible feeling which I love, Riding the Enduro is like driving a tank, you can go through anything.
The best selling point for the Enduro is its versitility, The flip flop link, itch switch combination is second to none.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike B
a Weekend Warrior
from Mahwah
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Ringwood State Park, NJ | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Strengths: | Ride, value | | Weaknesses: | Frame strength, saddle, pivots in rear suspension continually need maintenance | | Bike Setup: | Replaced stem (Thomson), seat post (Thomson), saddle(broke), bashguard instead of large ring, bar (Monkey) | | Bottom Line: | I've had this bike for 15 months (2002 Enduro Expert). In first month of ownership, the bike was recalled and rear triangle replaced by LBS swiftly. This weekend, strange creaking noise appeared and frame is cracked at point where rear shock attaches to frame. Back to local dealer for replacement (I hope) under warranty. By the way, I weigh 190lbs, ride cross country and do not jump anything more than 6 inches. I am not a 240lb jumper!
Other than frame issues, ride descending and on flat excellent. Difficult on steep hills are front wheel becomes very light due to angles and upright position. I have replaced bar and stem which has improved. Can ride all day on bike as comfortable. So in summary, good ride, frame iffy hence 3 chillis on overall. (Up to 4 again if Specialized replace frame quickly under warranty)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, AZ
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Sabino Cycles | | Strengths: | Plush, plush plush! | | Weaknesses: | A bit heavy, although you really don't feel it while riding | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS1, Giant VT2 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | All I can say is wow! Moving from a Klein HT, this thing just floats over the trail. The travel and damping adjustments make a big difference in the handling and feel of the bike. Initially I was concerned with the weight over my HT, but it really doesn't seem to be an issue on the bike. Great climber, excellent decender.
Very pleased with my decision. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
david
a Cross Country Rider
from edinburgh
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | scotland | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | bike scene | | Strengths: | itch switch with lockout, nice frame, all rounder, nice setup, | | Weaknesses: | tyres are pathetic change them in the shop if they'll let u | | Similar Products Used: | proflex full suss | | Bike Setup: | stock with hope m4's 185 rotors, DMR V12's | | Bottom Line: | I can't stay off this bike - it's had me rushing home from work, talking half days etc jus to get another shot. the ajustable rear shock is great i mostly stay in short mode and flip to LT for long downs. on big climbs the rear lockout is great and easy to flip on/of while riding. I find front fork a bit fiddly however and i tend to ride in 110ish mode cos I can't be bothered adjusting the U turn (a switch would be better for me anyway)no real preload adjustment on the fork either although I think with a bit more time i should get it working well. the great thing about this bike is the confidence the riding position coupled with the long travel gives you on the downs - get sum speed up and dont worry about hitting the rough stuff jus relax and this baby jus floats on thru - really! It's a pitty the tyre are so rubbish cos they let the bike down, the front washes out way too easily and feels skittery on tightish corners.I've not flipped the link yet cos I like it the way it is in the low BB setting altough if you really like your pedals u better get over it as they really take a mashing! all in all this bike climbs great, bombs down and cruises on the flat, if u want a bike that truly does a bit of everything then get it! I still gave the bike full marks even though I'm not totally convinced with the fork. - i put M4's on this before I bought it so didn't try the deores - the M4's are scary strong (and gettig stronger!) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sly Guy
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Pecco's | | Strengths: | Geometry, handling, pedalling efficiency, Specialized customer service | | Weaknesses: | frame finishing, attention to small "details", Specialized skewers | | Similar Products Used: | 2000 & 2001 Enduro, Rocky Mountain Slayer, GT Idrive, Trek Hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Hayes Hydraulics, 00 Z3's (air), Deore BB & crankset, Rhynolite rims w/ Continental Survival Pro's | | Bottom Line: | I got the frame on warranty because I broke the seat pods where the seatpost enters the frame on two previous Enduro's.... I am grateful to Specialized for replacing the frames, with a reasonable turnaround time (2 weeks!). That is also why I am riding the current setup, I've replaced many parts over time as the OEM parts have failed. I ride fairly aggro technical x-c trails, inhabited with lot's of mud, rocks, roots and relatively short hills, but very little "freeride" or urban.
I took my recently rebuilt bike out on one of my favourite trails last night, and does it ever rock - what a difference! It seems that the rear triangle is much stiffer than previous years' incarnations, and the Float RL w/ the itch switch is really great for my kind of riding: 4" for where you have to pedal in the rough (both uphill and in flat technical conditions), with an easy switch over to 5" once the trails starts going downhill. I'm really impressed at how much smoother things feel with the extra inch of travel, and at how easy it is to switch between the two.
I think I'm going to want to change my forks for something that behaves similarly in the front though, because the spring rate can only match one of the two travel settings in the rear. It's either too soft for the 4" travel setting, or too hard for the 5" travel setting.
I'm not sure how to rate the bike though. On the one hand it rides exceptionally well, and Specialized's customer service (at least in Canada) has been phenomenal. On the other hand, having a frame break twice really sucked. It's worth mentionning that I generally tend to weight around 215 lbs. and ride relatively technical trails. Yet one of my regular riding partners has the same bike I had (2001 Enduro)and we ride the same trails together most of the time. He has never had any problems with his frame and the main difference is that he weighs 45 lbs less than me. I'm going to keep this frame and hope it gets me through at least two more seasons (it should, the geometry has less layback for the seatpost, and the frame is supposed to be stronger). But if it breaks again, I will resubmit an updated evaluation... Overall, I strongly recommend this bike, just don't think of it as a freerider if you weigh over 200 lbs.
Happy Trails All.... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russ
a Weekend Warrior
from Costa Mesa, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 19, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Whiting Ranch | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1850.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo, Fountain Valley | | Strengths: | Nicely equiped, front and rear lockout an added bonus. Descends with poise, climbs with confidence. | | Weaknesses: | Rear lockout is a bit troublesome at times, not too much else so far.... | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Jekyl 1000 | | Bike Setup: | Fox Float RC w/itch switch and lock out, Rock Shox Pyslo SL in front, XTR/LX components, Hayes Hydro Discs, Specialized Seat,Stem,Cranks,&Bars. | | Bottom Line: | First things first, to describe my riding style: I guess you can call it aggressive cross-country. I enjoy the drops and hits more than the climbs, but that’s not to say I don’t mind the challenge of a good climb. That said, I Just switched from a hard tail and I love the new ride. My Endure gives me little reason to break on the bumpy descents and gives me added confidence on all facets of riding. I have no major complaints as of yet. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a
from Marina del Rey, CA USA
Date Reviewed: May 19, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Plush ride. Lock out shocks. | | Weaknesses: | Weight! Front derailleur is not as bullet proof as my 1994 LX group. It’s been adjusted a few times in the last few months and still isn’t right. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I got this bike to replace my 8 yr old carbon/aluminum Mongoose hardtail. During my first few rides in the Santa Monica Mountains, I was very happy with the downhill control that the full suspension allowed. However, I was not very pleased with how this bike felt on the climbs. I’ve never being very technically proficient and have relied on my climbing abilities. Although this bike helps me on the downhill, I feel that the weight and the geometry have really impeded my climbing. Although this is a good FS ride, I may be in the market for a good XC hardtail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob Daugherty
a
from Winter Springs, Fl, Seminole
Date Reviewed: May 18, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Wild Thing at Keystone, Colorado | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2460.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Works | | Strengths: | Stong frame, light, four link rear suspension, all-around and highly adjustible bike. | | Weaknesses: | Tires are to thin, lots of pinch flats. New Endoros come with RockShox Psylo instead of Fox Racing Shox Talas RL fork (not a good change). | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Fox Racing Shox Talas RLC fork, Panaracer 2.3 DH tires, and Azonic A-frame pedals | | Bottom Line: | All Enduros are great bikes and I think everyone should at least try to have the basic model. The Expert no longer comes with the Fox Racing Shox Talas RL fork instead with a RockShox Psylo (a crapy fork in my opinion), if you could get an older one deffinetly go for it. Other than that, I have gone down 3 stories of stairs, off the 2nd story of my school, through technical trails and DH trails, and run adventures races all are no match for this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
André Mansson
a Weekend Warrior
from Zurich
Date Reviewed: May 17, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Uetliberg, Zurich | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikeaholic | | Strengths: | Versitality- anything goes. Price/performance is unbeatable in my opinion. Ease of use. Quality. Looks. | | Weaknesses: | Tire clearance in the back is my only gripe. According to Specialized, the biggest tire you can fit is 2.35". I would have like to be able to use Specialized's Roller 2,6" (Big Hit) tires on an alternate wheelset. Some components MIGHT have to be changed soon (see bottom line). | | Similar Products Used: | Not really similar. Had an old hardtail for the last 10 years. Had my share of fun with that one too though.. =) | | Bike Setup: | All standard except changed the Hayes rotor on the front to the 8" disc, as opposed to the 6" standard. | |
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$ 2390.00
