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Specialized
Enduro Expert
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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. | | Bottom Line: | The EXPERT/FRAME:
Looking to go from a beaten up hardtail to a fully, I carefully studied the market in Europe. To me $2500-3500 is a lot of money, so I wanted to get as much value as I could. And in the Enduro I am confident that I did.
The 'Expert' hits the price/performance mark right on the spot in the Enduro line. You get the quality, top reviewed Psylo SL in the front, and the in house modified Fox RL "Itch" in the back.
At the flip of a switch, the Itch changes the bike's characteristics considerably:
Short travel for fast pased curving or climbing, and long travel for 'freeride' and you can't go wrong. Even though it has a lock out I rarely use it.
FORK:
The Psylo in the front has worked GREAT for me. I weigh aprox. 82kg (170 lbs?) and the standard springs are good. You can adjust it from 125 to 80mm while riding, but if you want to extend it back up again you should stop and take your weight off the bike. You need 6 turns of the dial to go from min to max. This is a great fork.
BRAKES:
My bike came with the Hayes brakes, and at first I wasn't sure if this was an up- or downgrade from the new Deores. I had read many disc brake reviews (here and in magazines) with mixed results for the Hayes. Not having had disc brakes before, and not having tried other than mine(!), I have nothing to compare with. I did change the the rotor in front to the 8" one and I am pleased with my current setup. The 6" wasn't really bad, but I managed to "overheat" it on a rainy day going down a long decent. All that happened was that the pressure point (solid) moved a bit away from the bar, and that doen't happen with the 8" one. The one-finger-brake-fly-over-the-handelbar is a no go on these though. And I'll continue to believe it's a myth on other brakes too, until I've experienced it for myself.
COMPONENTS:
In order to keep the price low, Specialized took a few shortcuts. The most serious might be the Deore level bottom bracket. I feel this should have been XT, at least LX. They also use their own Strongarm crankset, but that's fine with me. XT shifters and front der. would have been nice for looks and to keep the spec. within two Shimano levels, but the LX stuff works really great. And this stuff is pretty easy to upgrade afterwards anyway, so I can see why Specialized chose to keep the price down. I'll give Specialized the benefit of a doubt and I haven't had any problems yet, so...
TIRES:
The Enduro Pro tire is not a bad tire. You just have to accept that it's not for every terrain type. Ride it with pseudo low pressure and it'll get you up and down almost everywhere. It doesn't have the self cleaning ability to be a great wet weather/mud tire, but other than that- no complaints. If you are having trouble- let out a little preassue. It will do wonders on loose and roots (tire tends to slip if to hard)
CHOICES/CONCEPT:
Now, would the weight penalty would have been worth a little broader behind in order to fit really fat tires? I think so. Change a few components to your fav. brand and with two wheelsets this bike would still be light enough to truly be everything from XC race machine (well maybe to TOP level) to Freeride monster. The concept is really that good.
Don't know what else to write. Email me if you have questions. List price for this bike in Europe is €2850 for the -03.
I'd recommend it to anyone without reservations, because even if I have to change the BB it's still a GREAT deal. Well done Specialized!!!
André (amansson@solnet.ch)
PS. I'm 1.81 cm (6 ft) and I have the M size. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Collins, CO
Date Reviewed: May 5, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Currently; Hall Ranch | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Adjustable front fork, and the adjustability for great downhill runs and long cross-country rides. | | Weaknesses: | Perhaps the weight, but I haven't noticed too much. Losing a few pounds cost less that taking it off the bike. The Psylo SL fork had to be recalled for lock-out problems and now doesn't have the advertised travel. ---I've got a call into RockShox about that one....I'm sure they're just busy. | | Similar Products Used: | Don't you just love the fact you can test ride bikes in the parking lot and not on the trails-woopie. Fisher Sugar, SC Blur and Superlight, Specialized Epic, VT-2, Jamis Dakar. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for carbon hadle bars. My bike came built with the Hayes brakes, and Psylo forks. | | Bottom Line: | I have always rode hard-tails and was wondering if I should switch to full-suspension. I test-rode many of the stiffer full-suspension bikes and decided what's the point, go all the way or not-at-all. So, I bought the Enduro.
My decision to purchase a plush full suspension bike was perfect for me. With the adjustable forks and lockouts, it climbs like a champ. The 8+ lbs difference from my hard-tail is hardly noticeable, even on the 3-4 mile uphill routes I love. The comfort makes up for any inefficiency on the full-suspension.
The downhill runs is where the bike hums. Lengthen the travel and let it fly. You'll be taken lines unthought of with a hard-tail, and it's smooth...like riding on a cloud of titties.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Calum Macleod
a Cross Country Rider
from Ulverston, Cumbria, England
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything in the French alps | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Gill Cycles, Ulverston | | Strengths: | Specialized 4 bar set up is still the only real set up that works. (just ask Intense) Frks are good and rear shock is not just a sales gimmick.
Has excellent weight balance and can be tuned to suit any ride. It looks fantastic too. | | Weaknesses: | Cables and brake line runs down the underside of the main tube and under the crank - something is going to get hurt!
Tyres are junk and should be replaced before you take it out of the shop.
Cheapo brakes could be better. | | Similar Products Used: | Loads. several FSR's of different setup's, I've tried a couple of santacruz's, a Marin MountVision and a Kona Stinky. | | Bike Setup: | Standard suspension. Forks get adjusted a lot to suit terrain. Rear shock: i've settled to about 140lbs to suit my 165lbs flabby body.
I changed the grips to some BodyG's - they are excellent. | | Bottom Line: | I had a 98 FSR comp with Hope brakes and Marzocci z1.s so I was familiar with the specialized full sus' already.
I tried several bikes to replace my old 'fizzer' but his was the best deal / setup by far.
Santacruz Bullit was a very poor climber bobbed like crazy, also heavy and a slow handler. Top downhiller though.
Marin, as usual, overpriced and under spec. Not enough travel and back end still dodgy in 2003.
Trek Fuel: Did not excite me much.
List goes on.
I like my Enduro for all of the same reasons as everyone else. I ride in the Lake District UK every weekend, sometimes twice, and this bike is perfect. If you want to ride round all day looking for the good trails then you should have one of these. Mileage and big hits are what it likes. It is a great climber too and really finds traction well.
It is not as light as my old Fizzer but on XC stuff the geometry and ride quality hide its flab. If the Enduro was lighter it would not go down hills as well as it does.
Brakes: I was dissapointed to see 'Deore' wrote on a bike of this standard but they seem to work ok. 'Hope' off Santa this year?
LX - XTR is a bit of a mix up. This bike should be XT/XTR everywhere but it hasn't spoilt the enjoyment.
Tyres are usual Specialized rubbish. Good size but concrete compound and let go easy.
I've sat on worse seats, but not many.
Roll on the weekend so I can get out on it again.
4.5 chillies for both. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rookie
a Weekend Warrior
from Bay Area, CA
Date Reviewed: February 22, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Pacific Bicycles (Mt View, cool shop) | | Strengths: | Adjustable suspension (Switch, lock outs etc) Float RL is sweet, Hayes brakes, XTR rear derailleur, wheelset and tires are great too. Lack of bob in the rear while pedaling up, 4 link stays active on the brakes when you pick up to much speed on the descent. | | Weaknesses: | Seat is awful. It sucked in the parking lot. The shop offered to put on a different seat and I stupidly chose another Specialized body geom saddle. It meant my butt was sore in 30 mins instead of immediately. Must change again.
One of my brake levers has a lot of play and rattles. The rest of the bike is so smooth and quiet it's annoying. I'll pull the lever and put a little nylon washer in it.
I like the lock out on the fork, and I haven't quite bottomed it (jumped off a 3' stair in a parking lot) but it sags too much for me.(170 pounds) | | Similar Products Used: | Most recently Trek Y3. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, with different seat. | | Bottom Line: | Let me start out by saying I race motorcycles and ride on the dirt almost every weekend. I expect a lot from brakes and suspension, so take my complaints with a grain of salt.
For what you get, this bike is a great buy. Most of my complaints will be fixed with no or very little cost.
First time on clipless and I regret waiting. Between the bike and shoes, I made it up a climb I've never made without stopping this morning. Lower and lock the fork, switch the rear to the short travel (I don't like it locked even going up, you lose traction) and the thing climbs better than a 30 pound bike has a right to.
Didn't get too gnarly on the downhill as the brakes are still coming in, but it is already a choice ride. It picks up speed like crazy and the suspension lets you choose practically any line. Sweet. Didn't bang a crank arm either, something I do at least a couple times a ride on my old Trek.
Buy this bike, you won't regret it. I originally wanted a Enduro Pro, but the new XTR turned me away. I don't regret saving the money.
While at the shop buy a shock pump or at least make them help you set the sag, my bike pump won't work.
I wish there was a 4.5 chilis, but I'll give them the benefit of the doubt. ;-)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rallycarperson
a Weekend Warrior
from east brunswick
Date Reviewed: February 15, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | PLANET BIKE | | Strengths: | Great all mountain bike. There are two types of suspension travel one for XC amd one for Freeriding. The bike looks great also(when clean). Very strong bike also. | | Weaknesses: | The seat!Some times the rear shock bottoms out at 130mm on big jumps. When bought you need to adjust the gears to suit yourself. Also the fenders dont protect you from dirt. There is also a recall. | | Similar Products Used: | I got bumped up from a Raleigh M20! | | Bike Setup: | Upgrated grips, different seat, different stem, Tompson seat poast. | | Bottom Line: | Great all mountain bike for whatever mother nature has! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: February 6, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Oxford Falls | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction, Cronulla | | Strengths: | PLUSH. Tough. Dream handling. Confidence inspiring. Quality components. You can tune just about everything. | | Weaknesses: | Maybe I have a sensitive arse, but the seat feels like concrete after about an hour. Also, swap the pedals. They're fine, but you can do so much better. The seat clamp kinda sucks - after the first few bumps the seat post seems to settle lower than where I set it, even after tightening the tension on the quick release. | | Similar Products Used: | None; first time dually purchase. Used to ride Specialised Rockhopper hard-tail (incidentally very good for the price). | | Bike Setup: | Standard (came with Pyslo SLs) | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike because I wanted something you could bash the crap out of and ride on a variety of trails, and I also wanted to upgrade to the joys of dual suspension. I did not want a performance X-Country machine with feather-light, twitchy handling, as sexy as those are.
The Spesh delivers. This bike is PLUSH. It has been nicknamed The Couch by all who have tried it. One of my mates who races took it for a crack and I actually heard him laughing going down a particularly rocky section. His explanation - "That was so fu*king easy!" You can just comfortably, smoothly spin through the harshest terrain.
The front end lofts really well - the way the weight is distributed it feels easier to lift the front than it did on my hard-tail. The Couch is a bit sluggish on the uphill as it's no light-weight, but I only really notice that when the going is smooth. Going up rougher terrain this thing feels like a mountain goat. I was clearing sections that had me beat on the hard-tail. Going downhill, now that is superb! Point and shoot - it's sexual chocolate and three snaps up in Z formation.
I'm a rider who likes a variety of terrain - fast fire trails and single-track, some downhill, rocky as hell, technical climbs and some nice drop-offs. I don't engage in massive drop-ins and other airborne activities, so I can't comment there, but I can tell you that you'll love the Spesh and it will perform superbly.
I love my Couch.
(PS It also looks stunning. Bike porn at its best.) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from UT
Date Reviewed: February 6, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | goat trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Bingham's | | Strengths: | Climbs better than any bike with this much travel, great component spec, light weight for amount of travel. | | Weaknesses: | None that I could not easily tweak out | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Stinky Five, Diamondback X bikes. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, with all the sag set to my weight and all the parts dialed to the "T". Thanks to Choose To Ride for the setup tips. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the BOMB. I have always wanted a bike that I could climb without busting a lung but had good handling on the downhill. The FSR suspension climbs and descends like no other. I don't know what happened to Jon Earl but it sounds like he needs to ask a shop how to set up his suspension. I bet he has the damping turned up so much the suspension doesn't have a chance to spring back before the second bump. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan
a
from Mission Viejo California United States
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Top of the World | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Strengths: | This bike is awesome and it owns my old Cannondale Super V 2000 on the uphill, and nothing compares to it on the downhill. Love the lockouts! | | Weaknesses: | The seat(ouch!) | | Bike Setup: | XTR Front Derauiller LX back Hayes hydraulic disk specialized hubs, stem, seat post tires... | | Bottom Line: | This bike is for an individual who loves riding downhill but doesn't want a bobby uphill climb. This bike is the best for its price and i am regretting that i didn't switch earlier. This bike has changed the way i ride to the top of the world and i will never go back to my super v. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Beazer
a Weekend Warrior
from Ryde, Isle Of Wight, UK
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | West Highland Way | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Autovogue, Ryde, UK | | Strengths: | Forks, rear suspension design, spec, disk brakes, performance, cool looks (sorry im a bit of a tart!) | | Weaknesses: | SADDLE (OUCH!)
Mud clearance can bit a bit tight in the really sticky stuff. Stock disk pads lasted 6 rides!
Stock tyres are a bit too wide for winter mud, need a narrow tyre with a deeper tread. | | Bike Setup: | As standard, usually 100mm travel f&r | | Bottom Line: | Cracking bike, really plush ride, downhill is amazing! Climbs well too, dont try out of the climbing tho, crazy! Really good on roots, despite the slippy tyre, great on forest tracks.
Lost 1 chilli, but change the tyres for grippier ones & get a comfy saddle & youve got your 5th chill! All days rides are great, dont ache as much & enjoy the downs, oh yes, enjoy the downs!!
Would suit long day riders or cross country riders alike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek
a Weekend Warrior
from Idaho
Date Reviewed: January 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Fox Float, Psylo, Hayes disks, xtr / xt, climbit control, itch switch | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Fuel 90 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Compaired to what I was riding, (Gary Fisher hard tail) This bike is awesome. I cant think of anything I would build different if I could. It does take a while to get used to and learn to set it up right but once you get it dialed in your on your way. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ara
a
from Glendale , CA
Date Reviewed: December 21, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Great components , The Psylo SL and Fox FLoat RL give great options for everytime of terrain. A1 frame gives awesome hanling and control at high speeds .Massive tires will go over anything , trust me on this one (went over a 2ft rut like it was nothing) . | | Weaknesses: | The seat sucks !!!! Felt like i was in prison . Changed it with my old seat immediately after the first ride . wverything else is great to this point , nothing to complain about for now . | | Similar Products Used: | GT i-drive 4.0 2001 | | Bike Setup: | Stock : Psylo SL fork , Hayes Hydrolic disk , XTR r. derailleur and LX front . Fox Float RL suspension ,Specialized strongarm crankset , and all the other goodies .
| | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome . I went from a normal Honda to hardcore Porsche with this one .People who are aggressive riders that do alot of hard and rough trails would love . A little beefy for the normal fire roads fellow but they'll love it anyways . Thanks alot to Buddy and Doug at Glendale Cyclery who is the guru in mt. bikes , great service and great attitude , need more people like that in the world .
The Fox Float RL is amazing . It has the On-the-Fly lockout , long travel to short travel rebound adjuster , air intake and release valve . Also the frame has a flip flop that u can flip it to get extra travel for major drops.it takes only a few minutes to do .
The Enduro just looks nice overall (dream silver color) . Had more confidence coming down the trail and surpizingly it climbs really well for a 28 pounder . Especially if its on the lockout position .
Will write again to update my review and to see if it holds true to my claim . Dirthead 4 life . | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Earl
a Cross Country Rider
from California
Date Reviewed: December 15, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Not telling | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Joules Cycles | | Strengths: | ??? | | Weaknesses: | Brakes locked onto rotor while riding
Front forks are way to soft
Rear shock looses pressure
Tiring on uphill's
| | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale, Rocky Mountain | | Bike Setup: | Factory stock | | Bottom Line: | The idea of the rear lock out made look to buy this bike. I only wish i looked futher and gave it some testing before parting my hard earned dollars.
Uphills are tiring because of the weight, even with rear lockout enabled the frame still bobs and rattles a little. I am constantly having to inflate the rear shock as fox support told me its normal for the bike to loose air, yeah right.
For my weight around 190lb the front forks are far too squishy and often bottom out, no matter how much i play and adjust them.
And on my second week of owning this the rear pads locked to the rotor. Luckily my dealer got this replaced.
If you are a cross country rider and want an all round bike, then get something a bit more responsive.
If you are a quasi downhill or freeride fanatic then maybe this will be a good purchase | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brett Grieves
a Cross Country Rider
from Newcastle England
Date Reviewed: December 7, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Glentress (Scotland) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Evans Cycles. | | Strengths: | Suspension, esp the rear shock with lockout. The bike is a great all rounder. It can take just about anything. I also love the tires, 2.2s :-) plenty of grip here. XTR on the back (nothing but the best). I also love the feel of the bike. It feels big and meaty but I still have lots of control. Quite light for a full susser which I was suprised at. | | Weaknesses: | 130mm rear shock bottoms out occasionally. Best kept at 100mm. | | Bike Setup: | Standard setup | | Bottom Line: | Want a bike that can take ANY cross country ride with the ability to cover the rockiest, harshest terrain going. Get an Enduro!!! I took a 40 foot rocky as hell section of single track today with ease, my old hardtail would have had me on my back (with serious cuts and bruises too).
Ive been using a Peugeot hardtail for 3 years. Moving to a full susser was the best thing I ever did. I`ve riden a 2001 mid range full suspension Marin, but it just couldnt compete with the Enduro. On the fly travel and lockout adjustments are great!
Excellent parts, Good built, with a great name! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremy Hamm
a Weekend Warrior
from Childersburg, AL
Date Reviewed: November 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Oak Mtn State Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2250.00 | | Strengths: | Rather light for full suspension back country, able to take big hits and drops, quality components for the price, this is my first full suspension and I'm very impressed so far. | | Weaknesses: | none as of yet | | Similar Products Used: | Kona hard tail | | Bike Setup: | Rock Shock Psylo SL w/80mm-125mm travel w/U-Turn and Lockout, Fox Shox RL rear shock with Itch Switch, Hayes disc, Mavic Rims with Enduro 2.2 tires, Shimano LX shifters, Shimana XT Cassette, Shimano XT front derailer, SHimano XTR rear derailer, Specialized chain rings, Specialized strong arm cranks, Shimano 515 clipless pedals, Specialized Enduro handle bar, AHeadset, alluminum stem and seat post, specialized saddle. | | Bottom Line: | Great middle class bike for those not sure if they want an XC bike or a Free Ride bike. This bike is a little bit of both. It can easily be used for 30 mile Epic rides or for 8ft drops. Best buy for the best of both worlds! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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