Uncomforatable seat, narrow tires, soft read der. hangers, original pyslo fork flexs at 125mm setting (modified). BB height is a bit low for Colorado terrain.
Similar Products Used:
Balance hardtail
Bike Setup:
Sherman Firefly 130mm(wonderful), Mavic UST ex823 and xm819, Hope XC hubs, Contential Vertical 2.3 Pro UST, SRAM X9 shifters, SRAM XO der., SDG saddle and seat post
Bottom Line:
5 hard years on this bike, includding Keystone black diamond runs, Moab, and lots of rough all mountain rides. I ride twice a week spring through fall, and it still functions great!! I do very well on group rides alongside much newer bikes. As components have broke, I've upgraded, but the frame, BB, cranks, and rear suspension have held up remarkably. Everything stock is nicked up or ground down, but nothing has broken. The 4-bar suspension is neutral in all situations and climbs like a goat. I considering replacements, but it is hard to justify when this bike is still working so well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jim paolucci
a Downhiller
from burlington,vt,usa Date Reviewed: August 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Therapy
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Coming from a hardtail-diehard, this bike rocks!! Soaks up everything but the BIG stuff. Great traction, smooth handling, and fun to ride. This bike will push your limits and not let you down! Just lookout for the 6'+ drops at speed.
Weaknesses:
1. The lower shock mount bolt is too small! Spec'd at 8mm, should be 10mm. Broke one, bent the next and waiting till it fails.
2.Psylo Fork: Blown 3 Carts. Moved to 20mm, blew that one too, much stiffer tho...
3. Rims are weak! Many flat spots later, moved to XT Disc's w/Rhynolite rims, no prob's since...
3. Sqeaky Shock pivots. Grease them a lot and then add lube.
Similar Products Used:
Tried them all at the shops in town.
Bike Setup:
Xt Shifters/frt der. and Cranks, 01 Psylo XC 20mm, 8"frt disc, ODI, Thomson Post, Kenda Kinetics, 2.3r, 2.6f
Bottom Line:
This is the bike to have if your moving to the "suspencion" movement! It may weigh more than you hardtail, but it will ride smoother and faster in the rough.
Read the other reviews and see that they are right up there on getting this bike to rock the house. Did the same and happy ever since. Thanks!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan elliott
a Weekend Warrior
from CA Orange County Date Reviewed: May 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
home made
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
rock in rode cyclery
Strengths:
everything is very strong and light.
Weaknesses:
seatpost slips
Similar Products Used:
first bike
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
with it being my first bike i beat the crap out of it. doing jumps and dh runs at mamouth mountain. it held up great. all i replaced were the tires and tubes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from Tempe, Az Date Reviewed: December 24, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Landis Cyclery
Strengths:
Best suspension design ever. powerful brakes. lighter rims than old hardtail, so it accelerates and climbs better. I weigh 120 lbs. so this bike can handle six foot drops with a ton of air pressure in the shock. I can ride farther and faster and not be near as tired as on old specialized hardtail.
Weaknesses:
Needs coil-over shock to hold up on big drops. Body geometry seats are the hardest, most unforgiving seats conceived by mankind. Specialized got ripped by some scam-artist "engineers" that supposedly spent "time" on "research and development" for these seats. You hafta replace it if your mama wants grandchildren. Coil in front and air in rear(not balanced as well as I would like
Similar Products Used:
super V 500 Specialized rockhopper
Bike Setup:
Changed Pyslo to five inch travel. This made the geometry slacker, more stable at speed.
Bottom Line:
Most versatile bike I have ever ridden. You can race cross country one day, change the travel settings, and hit the slopes the next day. This is a trailbike with an attitude. It likes to play.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a Weekend Warrior
from Woy Woy, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: June 24, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
ProAm Cyclery
Strengths:
It does what it is supposed to do and does it exceptionally well. The Psylos are fantastic, will be even better when I can get the cash together for the U-Turn upgrade.
Weaknesses:
The middle chain wheel is crap - end of story. I have noticed a bit of flex in the cranks but nothing that really causes any concern (I only weigh 69kg (about 155lbs) and wouldn't consider myself all that powerfull). The seat pole has moved on me and because of the frame setup can't get it down low enough on steep decents but hopefully all this will be fixed with one of those new telescopic poles.
Similar Products Used:
nothing worth noting
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
The Enduro was designed to be an all day epic bike, not as a big drop free ride bike. As far as a trail bike goes, all I can say is that this bike is sweet. I can't wait to get out and ride. It's good to look at too...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
crazyfreerider
a Downhiller
from fremont ca Date Reviewed: May 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
tri city
Strengths:
this is a good bike if you do cross country but if you freeride then youll break it
Weaknesses:
the bikes weaknesses are the rear triangle seeing as how i broke it two time and i bent the seat post
Similar Products Used:
azonic dh, dh s works,ac 2,
Bike Setup:
race face cranks, 8 inch travel kit, nokians race face bar and dh stem
Bottom Line:
the bottom line this bike sucks for downhill or freerideing trust me i had to get it warrantyed about three time twice for the rear tri angle and once for breaking the hayes caliper. if you wanna freeride get the giant ac2 or straight 6.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Newington, CT Date Reviewed: May 8, 2002
Favorite Trail:
West Hartford Reservoir, West Hartford, CT
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
Berlin Bike Shop Berlin CT
Strengths:
FS is nice, rides nice, climbs well, mud guards work but look dorky
Weaknesses:
rear tire tread sliced off when i hit a rock, bent front middle chainring because chain got bound up in it, rear brake lines rub on rear tire during hard bumps, causing the rubber coating on brake line to wear off. fox floatR seems weak for my size (235 lbs)
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock, with rock ring to protect the cheap chainrings
Bottom Line:
Nice bike, I wish stuff didn't keep breaking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed C.
a Weekend Warrior
from Acton, MA Date Reviewed: April 5, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great suspension, adjustability, Hayes discs, XTR
Weaknesses:
Stock tires, crankset, stem/bars (too wide!)
Similar Products Used:
I-Drive, Santa Cruz Superlite
Bike Setup:
Stock Enduro Expert w/King headset, IRC tires
Bottom Line:
Let's get the gripes out of the way right up front: the seatpost slips, the bars are too wide, the cranks are flexy and the chainrings are soft and cheap. I'm also slightly annoyed at the choice of tires that came with the bike, and the Deore shifter pods, but I've grown used to the BG seat and don't mind it so much anymore. So what's great about this bike? Everything else, from what I can tell. I've put about 200 miles on mine with very few problem, mostly New England technical singletrack and some jumps and drops. The suspension soaks up everything and I can climb better (it seems) than my old hardtail, especially on rocky ascents. This thing goes where I point it, much more so without the stock rubber, and it has inspired a huge amount of confidence. Can you do better for the money? You can probably come close if you try, but you could certainly do a lot worse. An XT crankset, Thomspon bars and seatpost, and the new tires will push me past the $2k mark, but I still think it's a great value. Oh, and the Psylo? I was (still am) a huge Marzocchi fan, but I am happier than I though I could be with this fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JR
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, AB, Canada Date Reviewed: March 31, 2002
Nothing comes close to how crappy this bike is, so why compare?
Bike Setup:
2001 FSR Enduro Expert Stock
Bottom Line:
If you love watching your buddies drive away while you sit on the trailside fixing your bike, then this one's for you!
Rear wheel won't stay in place no matter how much you tighten the rear quick release. Hit anything bigger than a golf ball sized bump and the wheel is completely knocked out of place, followed by the lovely sound of your rear disc jamming in the brake pads and the sound of your rear derailleur chewing away. I spend more time carrying than riding.
Rims are ultrasoft, be prepared to spend lots of time on them (by the way, I'm only 5'11" and 175 lb so I'm not exactly exceeding this bikes "supposed" limit)
Seat hurts like hell, get rid of it ASAP!
Handlebars are about 2" too wide, cut them immediately or you'll end up taking lots of bark home as souvenirs.
I'm glad I didn't pay the full $3200 CDN for this bike, I ended up getting it for about half, which is still too much given the problems I've been having. I have a 7 year old Rocky Mountain Fusion with original Rock Shock's on it that is more reliable than this. Save your money, head to Canadian Tire and buy a $300 CCM special, you'll get about the same riding experience.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MIKE LAVOIE
a Weekend Warrior
from MONTREAL Date Reviewed: March 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
THE CRIPPLER
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
MARTIN SWISS CYCLES
Strengths:
CLIMBES SUPRISINGLY WELL, PSYLO XC FORK HAYES BRAKES ARE BOTH GREAT!TAKES SMALL TO LARGE BUMPS VERY WELL, GREAT HANDLING AND IS A POINT AND SHOOT BIKE.
Weaknesses:
TRY TO EXCHANGE THE SEAT POST AND CHAINRINGS RIGHT AWAY, BECAUSE IN ABOUT A MONTH YOU WILL HAVE TO ANYWAYS. I HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKES(CABLE DAMAGE OR AIR LEAK)A GOOD TWIST OF THE HADLE BARS SCREWED UP MY BRAKES.I'LL SEE WHAT MY LBS WILL HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE HAYES.CHAINRIGS BENT GOING UP A STEEP HILL!!!
Similar Products Used:
FIRST FSB I'VE OWNED
Bike Setup:
STOCK ENDURO EXPERT:PSYLO XC, HAYES DISK, M515 PEDALS, FOX FLOAT RC, XTR REAR, ETC...
Bottom Line:
THERE IS NO BETTER BY FOR MY MONEY THEN THE ENDURO EXPERT! AT THE PRICE I PAID ($2300 CAN) I AM VERY HAPPY WITH WHAT I GOT. THIS BIKE HANDLES EVERYTHING FROM SMALL HUMPS TO THE STEEPEST CLIFF YOU CAN FIND.THE ONLY REASON I DIDN'T GIVE IT A 5 CHILI RATING IS THE SEAT POST AND THE CHAINRINGS, BESIDE THAT THIS RIDE IS WICKED!FROM WEEKENDER TO MR.10 FOOT DROP THIS BIKE IS FOR YOU.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: November 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Frame, 4 bar linkage, Hayes Discs,
Weaknesses:
stock seatpost, stock seat, Fox float r (2 warranty claims on it in 10 months)
Similar Products Used:
RM Slayer, Giant AC, GF sugars
Bike Setup:
For the first 6 months I ran the bike stock except for the seatpost, seat and stem.
now running Marzocchi Z1, Shimano LX cranks, Fox vanilla r
Bottom Line:
I had the honor of being the first to review this bike @ 1 year ago, and had very high praises for it. In the past year I have taken a few components off of it to put on my hardtail and replaced them with misc. upgrades.
The Psylo was a fantastic fork, however by adding a Marzocchi Z1 I now have 5" of the smoothest, plushest travel available (I picked up the fork at a price I could not refuse, that was the main reason for upgrading)
I have had the Float R fail on me twice now (not an agressive rider, weigh 165lbs) and picked up a Vanilla R that has been doing the job.
The hayes are phenominal. Still on the original set of pads!
The bike has allowed me to ride so much better than before, and even with the extra weight it still climbs like a dream. I am one very happy FSR owner, and would recommend the design to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Heath Huffman
a Cross Country Rider
from Andover, MA Date Reviewed: October 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods, Georgetown
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
International Bike
Strengths:
Components rock; Hayes, XTR, Mavic.
Weaknesses:
SEATPOST is TRASH!!!! Seat is hard
Similar Products Used:
Giant XTC AC 2
Bike Setup:
Stock other than Race Face stem and seatpost, SRAM Rocket rear shifter (how could anyone use rapidfire, it's CRAP?!)
Bottom Line:
OK, the strengths have already been said many times already and I absolutely aree with all of them except I do not see many gripes about the Ritchey seatpost. This is the biggest piece of dung I have ver experienced on a bike. I weigh only 190 lbs and am fairly strong but even after I crank that seat to post bolt down as hard as possible it still gets knocked out every ride. I ended up replacing it immediately, but other than the switch from Rapid Fire to Sram in the rear this bike needs no immediate upgrades.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don Olson
a Weekend Warrior
from Irwin, Pa. USA #1 Date Reviewed: October 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Beam Rocks, Laurel Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Gatto Cycles
Strengths:
Great Suspension technology, love da Hayes! Great customer service (Cudo's to Gatto Cycles and Specialized)Love the Psylo (customized by me!)
Weaknesses:
My ding dong damn seat mast/tube cracked in the clamp area where they remove material so you can clamp the seatpost in place. 2 stress fractures. I've blown the rear shock numerous times or had "slow" leaks (finally seems to be fixed)Psylo needs damper replaced. I replaced the cranks, handlebar, seatpost, tires, pedals, chainrings and am going to replace the stem...Other than that it's perfect!
Similar Products Used:
My dear old FSR Comp that finally gave up da ghost! Broke the seat tube/mast weld area (hmmmmmm a trend maybe?????)
Bike Setup:
STOCK off da floor except for: Time Pedals, Race Face cranks, rings. Profile riser bar, Different seat. Custom srping kit on the Psylo
Bottom Line:
This has been a really great bike despite some meltdowns. I've owned it now for 10 months and I just discoverd the cracked frame. Gatto Cycles is getting me the new 02 model which should be stronger. My riding ability has really improved since I bought this bike. I now do things that I shied away from before. Overall I really like the suspension at both ends and the Hayes rule other than the occasional singing, but that is my fault. I can't wait to see my new frame and get it up to Laurel Mountain and beat it on the rocks up there. If you want a bike that really makes riding a joy and mocks rocks this is the one buy. There are more expensive copies out there but for the $$ this is tough to beat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Buck
a Weekend Warrior
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: October 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lutsen Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Erik's bikes
Strengths:
great all around bike. love the disc brakes. suspension way better than my fsr sport
Weaknesses:
rear seat stay broke after one month of riding, seat
Similar Products Used:
99'fsr sport
Bike Setup:
stock with primo bmx pedals
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike and i would recommend it to any body but the drive train isn't the best for how much i paid. I would love to see a xtr front derailler and a new seat. But that is an easy fix. also i rode the bike for one month and broke the rear seat stay. specialized said it was because of a bad weld by the disc brake mount. Come on specialized you are a good bike company mistakes like this on a higher end bike shouldn't happen. it took them a month and a half to get the right bearings and frame parts to LBS. the bike shop has had the bike as long as i have. all in all i still have to give it five flammin turds all around. great bike, i ride it hard and it likes it. graet for the epic and freeride bunch too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dick Van Dyke
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, Wa Date Reviewed: October 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The ones without little kids
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Sammamish Cycle
Strengths:
Hayes brakes, Psylo fork, Fox Float-R, XTR rear-derailleur
Weaknesses:
Specialized Drive-train, LX front derailleur (might as well make it all XTR) .. thats about it
Similar Products Used:
First FS bike
Bike Setup:
2001 FSR Enduro Expert Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks ass! I echo the problem everyone has had with the seat being too hard, but if you can handle purchasing a new seat, this bike is for you. The Hayes break make stopping super-smooth, XTR rear-derailleur makes for effortless and super clean shifting, and the suspension setup is more than enough for moderately aggressive riders to have fun in the trails. If you have any doubts whatsoever about this getting this bike, go try one out! This is definitely the bike to get. Great value and awesome performance!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jed
a Cross Country Rider
from Hudson, MA Date Reviewed: September 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Leominster SP
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Landry's
Strengths:
One more follow up.... Many stregths. Strong, sturdy bike that'll stand up to anything. Hayes discs are fantastic even though mine do sing a little. Perfectly balanced susp setup (Psylo & Fox). In my opinion, the most comfortable FS out there once you get rid of the brick seat that comes w/ it.
Weaknesses:
S-works drivetrain is a little fidgity. Tends to ghost shift here and there. Chainrings suck. They should've just made them out of tinfoil.
Similar Products Used:
C-Dale Jekyll, Giant XTC Air, GT I-Drive
Bike Setup:
Stock except for a KORE stem, Oury Grips, and a different Body Geo Seat. Also took about 3-4 inches off the handlebars.
Bottom Line:
The only troubles I've had have been the drivetrain, and I'm quite sure that'll be fixed by a year end tune-up at my LBS. The chainrings are complete schwag. The middle ring bends to the granny about twice a week. It only takes a couple taps to bend it back, but it's starting to look like an LP that someone left in the sun.
This bike is fantastic. I bought it at the beginning of the summer, and have been all over New England. I've crashed, endo'd, and even sent the bike bouncing end over end down a ski hill, and (knock on wood) nothing has broken.
It is an all around great bike. Climbs better then my HT even though it weighs 5 lbs more. Downhill is a dream, and gets a little dangerous (aka. fun)as you push a little faster each time.
Test ride this bike and pay attention to how comfy it is...hands down, the most comfy. It's called the Enduro for a reason. I've done some long rides this summer, and never became uncomfortable on the bike (back, wrists, arse, etc)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Screech
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: August 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Kembla DH
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
Fox Shock, Hayes Hydros, Frame strength, Rock Shox Psylos
Stock apart from Mavic D321 rims, oury grips and an extra inch in the forks, platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks. If you are looking for an all-round trail bike then this bike rules. The rear suspension is so active that anyone not in the know would incorrectly set it up hard, rather than "just right". When you do get the rear end right, the sealed bearings all round make the suspension action so smooth is unbelievable. Along with the fox shock, its pure bliss. My bike came with the front fork set at 100mm (4") of travel. I found that the bikes rides a $hit load better with the forks set at 125mm (5"), with the rear set up in the 4.6" travel and 71 degree head angle. You could achieve the setting by changing the plate in the rear arm but it lowers your BB height. With the extra travel up front, the forks are nearly a prefect match for the rear end. The Psylos are a little dubious at the moment, sure they were plush and fantastic first up, but the reknown bushing play yet to creep in to mine, but at the 5" travel mark, it shouldn't take long. Next item that will be upgraded off this bike are the chainrings. I have bent the middle ring about 4 times now just through changing gears. This light aluminium stuff just can't hack it when changing from middle to granny. The chainring bends towards the granny ring and is so soft it can be bent back into alignment with your hands. The rims went off the bike before it left the showroom floor. The D321's are a bomb proof rim that I won't bend, unlike the standard X223. Sure you gain weight, but you won't be going through wheels as fast. THe Hayes brakes are the usual deal, maintenance free, bloody powerful and simply the best there is at the moment. Glad to see Specialized have finally fitted an International Standard disc mount to their bikes in '01. Forget putting rim brakes on this puppy, as there are no brake bosses. Nice clean lines are the result. For an XL bike (about a 22" me thinks), the bike is not too hefty, surprisingly, I'd estimate at 27 pounds. The tyres had to go, and I'm now running IRC Mythos 2.1 Kevlar front and rear. Much better. These tyres behave really well with the D321 rims. The 36mm width on the rim goves a lot omre ground contact with the tyre, making control at low and high speeds a cinch. That'll do me. All in all, a fantastic bike. Ride one and have your mind made up for you!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DeVeet
a Weekend Warrior
from Malden MA U.S.A. Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
North Shore Cycles
Strengths:
Great design. The setup with the fox shock and the Psylo rules! Climbs like a champ. I love the Hayes discs. Price.
Weaknesses:
Not much. This is the bike I have been waiting for.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first Full Suspension. Looked at GT IDrives. My buddy just bought a Rocky Mountain Pipeline it was nearly $1000.00 more, out of my price range.
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock. I changed the stem to a RaceFace DH stem and swapped out the big ring for a rock ring and I use SNAFU BMX peddles. I cut down the seat post a lot, it was way to high for the type of riding in L.W. I might shorten the handlebars, there a bit to long.
Bottom Line:
I think I got a great bike for the price I paid. The frame will serve me right for years to come. I love the Psylo Fork it sucks up everything! I'm sure there will be upgrades once things start breaking off the bike.I did a lot of research before I bought this bike and I think it's the best bike out there for quailty, components, and price. I have this bike setup more like a free ride bike which is perfect for the kind of riding that I do. I don't take weight into account all that much because I don't race or climb a lot of really big hills. All this talk about the bike makes me want to go ride so, I'll talk to later. FSR Eduro Expert Rules!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler Underwood
a Downhiller
from Fremont ,Ca, U.S.A Date Reviewed: August 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mission peak
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1450.00
Purchased At:
Tricity sporting goods
Strengths:
every thing about this bike is strong.the thing that this bike is /or should be used for is downhilling.
Weaknesses:
this bikes weaknesses are shoot there are no weaknesses.
Similar Products Used:
specialized rockhopper
Bike Setup:
disc brakes plush suspension
Bottom Line:
Im very happy with this bike. i placed 1st 2nd &1st in a down hill race with this bike. also my bike is stock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brock J
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria BC, Canada Date Reviewed: July 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hartland
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Rider's Cycles
Strengths:
Amazing fully active rear suspension. Great balanced feel.
Weaknesses:
That infamously torturous seat had to go. Handle bars are way too wide for BC singletrack (just ask my bleeding knuckles). The Rock Shock Psylos are plush but the bushings have too much clearance and they knock against the stanchions. I probably should have put Z1s on it, as I doubt Rock Shocks will do anything to remedy the knocking.
Similar Products Used:
Old Specialized S-Works XTR
Bike Setup:
I swapped out all of the LX stuff for XT, replaced the cranks with XT splined, replaced the saddle with a Selle Italia, swapped the Hays for XT Disc for better modulation. Replaced the air shock with a Fox Vanilla R coil and replaced the pedals with 858s.
Bottom Line:
While this bike is heavier (27.75 lbs) than my old hard tail (23 lbs), I can climb stuff I could never climb before. The suspension and excellent geometry allow me to glide over obstacles that would stop me dead on my old bike. Once the climbing is over, the bike really comes to life. Its basically "point and shoot" . . . a great bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin Wakefield
a Weekend Warrior
from Wales(UK) Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Karrimor Route (north wales)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Strengths:
Downhilling,Climbing,All Round Use
Weaknesses:
Hayes Brakes,Naff Bar+Stem
Similar Products Used:
I've Had giant ATX990,GT XCR1000,GT XCR3000,Schwinn Rocket 88 Stage 2
Bottom Line:
I've changed the Hayes for Hope Enduro 4's also changed the stem for a Kore Elite fitted Astro Bars and different Wheels (hope bulbs on Mavic X519) XT Spd's and a comfy saddle everything else is stock and this bike is awesome climbs better than any of my previous full sus bikes although the schwinn pushes it close but it descends far better than the schwinn and as well as anything else i've ridden. Also here in the UK we have some pretty horrible ridding conditions and quite rocky trails and I haven't had a single problem with this bike everything I changed I did so at new so I can't comment on the performance of those products but I think I'll be hard pushed to find a better all round bike for the money....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jed
a Cross Country Rider
from Hudson, MA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Dirt ones
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Landrys
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
S drivetrain, and for $2000 can't they throw in a friggin shock pump?
Similar Products Used:
See below, this is a follow-up review
Bike Setup:
Stock...trimmed 3.5 inches off handlebars, Oury grips, diff body geo saddle, Kore Stem & Skewers,
Bottom Line:
I reviewed this bike about 3 months ago and couldn't sing high enough praises for it. Since then, the middle chainring has bent and the rear shifting has gone haywire. So how do I feel about the bike now?????? The same. This bike rocks! I bent the chainring back about 3 weeks ago. No problems since. And the shifting problem is probably just the cables stretching during its break in period. The Specialized drivetrain kind of sucks, but hey if it were Shimano, the bike would cost $500 more. I am 6'1" 220lbs and I really beat the sh1t out of my bikes. It tracks really well, climbs like a billy goat, and screams on the downhills. The weight is a fine at 30lbs, especially in comparison to other bikes in its price range. It is by far the most comfortable ride out there. As far as the suspension goes, first of all, the Psylo. Read the reviews...fantastic! Fox in the rear seems ok, but I still have some tweeking to do before it's perfect. (That's the only thing that ticks me is I've got to spend another $50 on top of the $2000 I already spent for a damn shock pump)
MY ADVICE: Buy this bike...Ride the Specialized crap until it breaks, and then you've got a phenomenal frame to upgrade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane Date Reviewed: June 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Riders
Strengths:
Chassis, fork, rear shock. Top ride
Weaknesses:
too many specialized bits, head angle a bit slack
Bike Setup:
'01 enduro expert stock, except for LX hollowtech cranks and bar-ends
Bottom Line:
The FSR is a great bike, basically this comes down to the chassis/shock and forks (the combo is the best out there). The ride is ultra plush yet remains efficient enough not to rob you of power. There a few shortcomings on the bike, which are predominantly component related. Too many specialized bits, ritchey post doesn’t hold the seat well (always slips back), I changed the cranks to 170mm LX hollow-tech and I’m really happy with them (would have preferred Truvativ’s, but unavailable in Oz). For cross country stuff the stem and handle bar needs changing to some lighter gear. The wheels are also quite heavy, but they are strong and stiff and help keep the price down. The biggest compaint is the slack head/seat tubes. The slack position is obviously made for downhill but if you run the forks at 125mm travel (which I assume you would doing downhill) it makes the head tube way slack(even in 70.5 degree position) I don’t know why you’d need to use the lower position. I think I’ll change the forks back to 100mm to get more traction on climbs as my weight is just too far back at the moment. I feel the best solution is to get a new linkage NC’ed up to give 5” rear travel, lift the BB and steepen up the head tube (lucky for me I have a have a bundle of solid modelling and stress analysis software). That said you may think I don’t like the bike, not so, I still believe that the FSR enduro is the best FS bike for trail riding that is tough, fully active and efficient. The rear end is really smooth and the psylos eat up everything ( just bash your way through, nothing more fun than flying along some undulating single track sitting low and keeping the power on). The hayes are great, no drag or squeal since new. Heaps of power and feel, never get sore fingers, they are a bit heavy and XT disc would probably be better in that respect but it comes with hayes. Some money thrown at the wheels and components will really lower the weight. I like to say my LBS did a great job putting the bike together as nothing has loosened (loctite) and its lube’d up etc….
5 chilli's for brakes, frame, shock, fork 3 chilli's for other components
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AJ
a Cross Country Rider
from Alton, IL, USA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Backyard
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Granada Cycles in St. Charles
Strengths:
Design, price, weight
Weaknesses:
Bar is too wide, seat post is weak, stock grips suck,
Similar Products Used:
Gt i-drive 2.0, Raven
Bike Setup:
Stock with yeti hardcore grips
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks. It may weigh a bit much for some people, but my 6'4' 200 lb frame loves it. The bottom bracket and top tube length are fixed from last year. The worst part of the bike, is the shop did a horrible job of setting it up. The brakes weren't bleed properly, and drug until I went to another shop to get it fixed. The spring in psylo was too soft. You would think that an XL frame would come with a stiffer spring. I told the shop such and they still made me pay for a new spring. Also the bolts on the discs were not lock tited down. A couple came loose and fell out before I realized what was going on. one more little gripe, when I ordered the bike I thought I was going to get an orange instead of a grey fork. That's ok though.
I climb better on this bike than my trek hardtail. And it flys down hills and sticks to corner like you would not believe, plus I have the added confidence of the hays to bail my butt out of trouble. That might be a bad thing though, now when I crash, I am going faster than when I crashed on my trek. I'll give it 5 in both, b/c the bike shop is the only think that really sucked about my purchase.
Anyone who is looking for a fs bike that wants something stronger than a xc racer, and lighter than a free ride should definately give this bike a test ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from Denville Date Reviewed: May 29, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Rear Suspension Design, Price,
Weaknesses:
Too many S parts, Stem, seat, handlebar have got to go
Similar Products Used:
Proflex 856, other than that this is my first FS bike
Bike Setup:
Change the following, Race Face Stem, Conti 2.3 vert pro, RF Headset/hndlbr/seatpost, Marz Z1 QR20, Hugi Hubs with Sun Mmth rims, and WTB SSK saddle
Bottom Line:
So far so good, I switch off and ride this bike every other week,and would have to say this is a sweet ride. Offers confidence yet is not a full on DH or 35 lb freerider. The rear susp is great, very plush and active. Now that I have switched out the stock parts that I did not like I have no complaints. Great handling, climbs good and descends great. Would definitly reccomend this bike to someone looking to get into more freeride style riding with out wanting to have to take a lift to the top....I don't do 20 foot wheelie drops.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jed
a Cross Country Rider
from Hudson, MA Date Reviewed: May 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Old Chester Turnpike
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Landry's
Strengths:
Psylo, Hayes, Mavic, XTR/XT, Comfort level, long wheelbase, fully adjustable,I could go on
Weaknesses:
If I had to come up with weaknesses, they would be nothing that would influence the purchase of the bike. Things like....ugly paint. Oh yeah, swap the saddle before you leave your LSB. The body geometry saddle is like sitting on a brick.
Similar Products Used:
Jekyll 700 LTD (liked, but Enduro more comfy), Giant XTC NRS 1 (too back heavy), Aeon Isis (loved but Cha Ching $$$)
Bike Setup:
Stock 2001 Enduro FSR Expert (with diff body geometry seat).
Bottom Line:
Well, I've only had the bike about a week, and as I'm typing this note my mouth is salivating at the thought of getting home to ride. I had a back surgery last summer and I needed an FS that was comfy, yet could climb well with my big 230lb ass on it. The Enduro is it.
The bike is beefy yet fairly light (30lbs). It climbs better than my $2000 hardtail. The Psylo soaks up everything, even set at the lowest travel. The rear suspension has zero bob in the saddle, but like every other bike out there, a little out of the saddle. I think the bars are a bit too wide for New England riding, so I will probably trim those this weekend.
Kudos to the guys at Landry's Framingham who really know how to mix the beer and biking.
I'll give it 5 flaming piles o' whatever I'm still in the "new bike euphoria" right now so my review may be a little biased. I beat the living sh*t out of it last weekend and it seemed to stand up perfectly. I will post again after a few more beatings.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat J
a Weekend Warrior
from Lakewood,Ca Date Reviewed: May 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Angeles Oaks
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Cerritos Bicycles
Strengths:
Every part of this bike rocks!! It goes where you point it. The suspension is so sweet, and the brakes make you superman. I see many have bad mouthed the fenders, but i think their worth the added weight in the winter for sure.
Weaknesses:
The weak springs that come with the Psylo Fork. Im going to replace them soon. I havent had the seat twisting trouble others have had.
Similar Products Used:
Lockheed Martin SR-71
Bike Setup:
Bone stock
Bottom Line:
I feel real lucky that i chose this bike for my first FS bike. cant wait to take it to Mammoth this summer, =o)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Secret
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Village Bike Shop-Kentwood
Strengths:
Hayes Disc Brakes XTR rear deraileur Mavic Wheels
Weaknesses:
Ritchey Seatpost LX front deraileur SRAM PC59 Chain
Similar Products Used:
None, all previous bikes were hardtails
Bike Setup:
All stock except Thomson seatpost & DuraAce/XTR chain
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike as a 2000 model and was off to a bad start. 8 days after I bought it the bottom braket came unscrewed and destroyed the threads during a ride! I was pissed off and had lost all faith in the purchase. After a little delay and much problems with dick head shop guys screw ups I finally received the 2001 frame. Since I have had it I am SO happy! This thing truly kicked the 2000 lines ass!! The 2000 had a very low bottom bracket as talked about in it's reviews here. It was a big problem I bottomed it out on small root sections! Could this be what caused it to loosen?? I honestly wonder about that. Anyway the 2001's bottom bracket height was increased! MUCH better I have virtually no bottom out issues than one would expect over nasty logs and such. There were other key improvements as well like a longer tob tube and added a rear disc mount to the stays (no more adapter).
I must say I had the exact same problem as the rating below, the Ritchey seatpost sucks, it would constantly jar out of angle on big hits no matter how hard I tightened it. Also, the PC59 chain that came on it was blown out in a matter of weeks, three locked links! I perform serious post ride maintainance so that was not an issure. I just feel it is a cheap chain which it is. The DuraAce/XTR I replaced it with is oh so nice and SMOOTH. I cannot even feel the chain in the pedal stroke.
I plan to upgrade to a XTR front deraileur & loose the Judy Race from the 2000 carry over. The Judy is a bit to flexy for me. I will probably be adding a Psylo and then the bike is true 2001 spec but I am considering the Marzocchi Z1 MCR quite strongly.
All in all I would strongly recommed this bike. I feel I lucked out and got a 2001 for 2000 closeout price. This bike makes me ride more than I ever have before because it is such a fun ride. I am out at least 5 days a week. This thing is a dream ride. The geometry is simply exceptional. I have virtually no complaints.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don Olson
a Weekend Warrior
from Irwin, Pa. USA BABY!! Date Reviewed: May 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bradema trail at Frick Park!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Gatto Cycles in Murrysville
Strengths:
killer design, Psylo fork, takes all the abuse I can give it and still get me out of the woods in one piece! Hayes disc brakes oh yeah baby I love to stop in the snow!
Weaknesses:
Cranks are too flexy, but I'm a big 220 Lb guy. Seatpost is too short for me 6'2" on a large frame. Handlebar is fonky! A bit heavy.
Similar Products Used:
My old, beloved FSR that finally broke!
Bike Setup:
Race Face cranks, rings, custom 2 stage spring that I customized from an old MRP Speedspring kit! Time pedals and a Botrager riser bar.
Bottom Line:
I love my bike and often sing love songs about it as I bash through the woods. It's longer wheelbase is a real confidence booster and I'm doing things now that I wouldn't have tried 6 months ago. I love being able to stop in the snow and watch my non disc friends fly by w/a look of terror on their faces! Great bike, price was right and Nick and the boys at Gatto in Murrysville RULE!!!!Thanks guys!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, Canada Date Reviewed: May 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
an outdoor one.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
where to start?
Frame 4 bar linkage Psylo fork Fox float r shock HAYES BRAKES Stout hubs (I like em....) even the tires are reasonable
Weaknesses:
The Ritchey seatpost is a @#$#@$ pile of #$@#@$. It does not hold the seat at the angle I want it. It was the 2nd thing I changed on the bike.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar, Giant AC / NRS, Cannondale SV, Rocky Mountain RM 6 / Slayer
Bike Setup:
Stock except for thompson elite seatpost (stock post is crap) and a shorter stem (felt I was too far forward).
Bottom Line:
Specialized spec'd this bike really nice.
XTR rear derailer, Psylo, Float-r, Hayes Discs, Mavic rims with Stout hubs. All of the above attached to a proven frame design in the FSR package.
Where they cut the corners to save them money was on stuff like the seatpost (replace immediately) their cranks (strongarm II, I have not had a problem with them yet, but if/when they stop functioning we can purchase others) their stem (most people change these right away anyhow).
This is a fantastic bike, that climbs really nice, and makes you want to climb so you can then do the downhill sections. With 5" up front and 4.6" back it eats up the rough stuff quite well (ok, it is not a Santa Cruz). The Hayes discs give you the confidence to go over your head, knowing the brakes will "probably" save you.
I have had this bike since the end of December and still get a goofy grin on my face whenever I talk/think about it.
I will write another review in a few more months of abuse.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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