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Specialized
01 Stumpjumper M4
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Submitted by
Matt Fehman
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft.Wayne, In.
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Frame | | Weaknesses: | stock components | | Bike Setup: | XTR/Bontrager Valiant wheels, XTR R/derailier, XT cass., XTR V-brakes, KORE Lite stem and bars | | Bottom Line: | This is a great frame to put great parts on! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie
a Cross Country Rider
from Florence,Ky.
Date Reviewed: December 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Muscatatuck | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Strengths: | weight,geometry,stiff frame | | Weaknesses: | mavic221's,strongarmII crank | | Similar Products Used: | 00 Rockhopper Pro | | Bike Setup: | mavic crossrides,XTR brakes,XTR,Time Atacs crankset,SIDXC,mythosXC,SelleItalia flight gel | | Bottom Line: | Great bike,I'll own this bike till it can't take it,climbs really well,Judy SL isn't that bad,in fact its pretty smooth,but decided to buy a SID for the less weight and lockout feature,bottom bracket sits a little low so watch for pedal dig,rear wheel stays on the ground during climbs,stays hooked up.would own two of these frames! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
charlie
a Racer
from athens, ga
Date Reviewed: October 21, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Strengths: | Lightness, Agility, primarily the frame | | Weaknesses: | stock fork | | Bottom Line: | A year and a half after buying this bike, and having bought 3 since then, this is still my go-to rig. Switched out the fork before I even took it home, replaced the crappy Judy with a Marzocchi Bomber Z1 (which makes a world of difference). Also replaced the lx front derailleur with xt and the headset with a Cane Creek after the stock one gave out.
I wish every bike handled this well.
Rode the tires close to a thousand miles before they finally gave out, they're excellent for east coast conditions (with the exception of mud, and you shouldn't be riding in mud anyway). Replaced with Hutchinson Mosquitos, which are similar tires in both weight and tread pattern. Replaced crankset with raceface turbine, but only because I was upgrading -- in a year and a half of heavy cranking, the only problem I ever had with the stock crankset was a bent middle chainring.
I love the seat, so I guess I'm on that side of that fence. Seatpost good. Brakes good. Handlebar good. Shifters I've never had any reason to mess with. Wheels could be better, but who cares? I love the radially spoked front wheel.
I will never get rid of this frame.
I guess I'm in love. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a Weekend Warrior
from Louisiana
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Azaela | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Red River Cyclery | | Strengths: | The M4 frame is super light. It's the reason I went with this bike. A great frame that is worth upgrading. As for all the people whining about the seat, I think it's fine. But from looking at the reviews, I guess you either love it or hate it. This is a little redundant from the other reviews, but it's a great climber (even though I am not!) | | Weaknesses: | The LX front isn't so great. Upgrade that ASAP. You can get an XT pretty cheap, and it's worth it. I only had the mavics for a couple of months, then I swaped them out. I did have a little trouble with them bending, but nothing major. I just wanted some disk breaks. Shock is good, but probably the next big upgrade I'll make - it's not bad, but it's not great. | | Similar Products Used: | First real MTB | | Bike Setup: | Stock, swaped out the bars for a riser; put on some Rolf urracco disk rims with avid mech. disk breaks (love 'um both); panaracer rear tire for all the mud on the Louisiana trails; cateye computer. that's about it. | | Bottom Line: | Even though it's my first bike, I think it's great. I did a lot of research before I purchased it to make sure it was the best deal for the money. The trek 8000 was one of the specific bikes I was comparing it too - components were about the same, but the M4 frame pushed it way over the top. It's a great bike that can be used as is, or if you want to, the frame is definetly worth keeping and upgrading. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nod Fenman
a Weekend Warrior
from England
Date Reviewed: October 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Peak Ditsrict, Derwent Reservoir | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | TW Cycles England | | Strengths: | Light & responsive, easy to ride all day on the trail. Comfortable ride position.Feels fast. Looks good. Good Paint finish
| | Weaknesses: | Rear hub went after about 500 miles. Replaced it with a new XT Disc ready hub.Forks were a bit weedy, but heavier oil sorted it out till money available for upgrade. | | Similar Products Used: | Scott Expert. When I got Stumpy, I was really after a full susser, so I tried it against a Trek Fuel 90. Stumpy blew the Trek away and convinced me to go Hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded when new to XT front mech and XTR dual control shifters/brakes. Deore Cranks. Riser bar. | | Bottom Line: | If you like Hardtails get one.
If you don't, get one anyway.
For the money you get an excellent frame to upgrade on as your experinece grows and bits wear out | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Curt Culliton
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 23, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Frick Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Gatto Cycle Shop (Employee Purchase) | | Strengths: | Light weight, geometry, paint job. | | Weaknesses: | Squeaky Judy SL fork | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Paramount series 50, custom built Schwinn Moab 1 | | Bike Setup: | Stumperjumper M4 with OEM XT rear derailleur and LX front derailleur, Avid brakes, Specialized stem. Upgraded to the following: Chris King NoThreadSet, Marzocchi Marathon 80, Velocity Aeroheat rims w/Specialized Stout hub (f) and XT hub (r), Panaracer Trail Blasters, Thomson seatpost, Serfas ARC saddle, Race face Turbine crankset, Easton carbon XC handlebar w/Oury grips, and Avid Arch Rival brakes. | | Bottom Line: | The Schwinn Moab was my old bike that was custom built with most of the parts that are now on my Stumjumper. I swapped the wheels, crankset, and brakes from the Moab so that I could sell it at a more reasonable price to get the M4. A bonus to doing this was that I ended up with a very light bike , not that it wasn't light in the first place. You could say I'm a weight weenie.
I never had the pleasure of using the Mavic wheels, they were taken off as soon as I got the bike. I upgraded the springs to heavier rate springs and changed the fork oil to a heavier weight also, doing this got rid of the annoying squeak the fork was emmitting, but that lasted a few days until I sold the Judy and got the Marathon 80.
The bike is so much fun to ride. It's nimble, it handles and climbs really well - I suck at climbing and it's helping me to become a better climber, I deliberately go looking for hills for a workout. I could go on and on about the frame, 'cause that is what's left of the original bike. Let's put it this way, my manager saw how much fun I was having on rides, he's getting one.
If you're looking a bike that is a good XC steed, and loves to be ridden in singletrack; this is the bike for you. Hopefully, you can find one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erwin
a Cross Country Rider
from OR and North CA
Date Reviewed: August 3, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | used off of MTBR | | Strengths: | great frame, light, stiff, workmanship, but only decent components (excellent upgrade potential). | | Weaknesses: | Blew out the crappy Judy SL in no time (promptly replaced with a marzocchi). Mavic 221s suck (soon to be replaced) | | Similar Products Used: | 00 Kona stuff, 00 Rocky Mtn stratos, old mongoose rigid. | | Bike Setup: | 21" frame, XT/LX components, avid front brake, 01 marzocchi atom race, hayes rear disc, specialized upper and lower end. | | Bottom Line: | Super great excellent value for the money especially when bought used (if you can find them). great bike to upgrade and customize to the rider's needs. Makes a great XC bike as well as a great entry- to mid-level racer as the bike is upgraded.
4 out of 5 overall rating because of the low-end components that came stock. But, I guess it's to be expected with a low-end model. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Fehman
a
from Fort Wayne In.
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | fast single track | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | Summit City | | Strengths: | Light weight and fast | | Weaknesses: | I had a lot of problems with the Judy SL at first making a clunking sound and I hear a creak in the frame every now and then. I do not like the LX shifters at all. | | Similar Products Used: | HardRock A1 comp FS | | Bike Setup: | Stock with XTR brakes and r.derailier added and Bontragger semi slicks (fast tires) | | Bottom Line: | I am happy with this bike and like it more after each upgrade. Next to go will be the LX shifters and Ritchey seat post. After I replace the shifters I will put on a XTR cass. to go with the XTR derailier. I will replace the Mavic 221's at some point but after one year I have not had the problems with them that others have wrote about. And yes I do pound on them. I will give the bike a three because of some of the weak components, but it doesn't take to many upgrades to get this bike close to a five. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick
a Cross Country Rider
from midland mi usa
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | xc no huge drops where I live | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | rays bike shop | | Strengths: | This Bike Rocks!!! Its really light, and has great component group. There is some room for upgrades but for the price, unbeatable. | | Weaknesses: | paint seams easily scratched | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh m40 | | Bike Setup: | stock, time pedals, XT rear, LX front, avid brakes, strong arm II cranks, mavic 221 rims specialized hubs. | | Bottom Line: | I got this bike as last years close out, and man what a deal. I think it would be worth the original $1200 but at $800 Its a steal. It rides like a rocket. And as many other reviewers have said it climbs and climbs and asks for more. I’m twice the rider I was before by just climbing on this bike. My wife wants to start riding now too and this is the bike we’ll get her Its awesome. Yes the s-works with all xtr would be cooler but not much and not for $1200. Great bike, If its in you price range get it , you won’t be sorry.
value rating 5. I think Id feel the same way even if I had paid full price especially with the upgrades specialized has made to the 2002 model.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Luiten
a Cross Country Rider
from Moose Jaw, SK, Can.
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Heaven | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Revolution Cycle(Can) | | Strengths: | Great value, solid M4 frame, Good geometry, light weight,
Awsome colors, Hayes are unbelievable. | | Weaknesses: | Ritchey seat post will not stay when set(always tips back)
mavic 221 very weak bend easy. Judy's make squeeking noise when compressed. Rear hub has bad vibration and squeek. Specialized tires very light but only last a few hundred km. | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain oxygen, Kona Kula, Cannondale M5000 | | Bike Setup: | Michelin wildgripers, Cateye heartrate | | Bottom Line: | This bike is very noisey, it squeeks non-stop. The dealer says that there is nothing wrong. I beg to differ.
when you pay this much for a ride, you should not be embarassed to be heard or seen on it. The Judy's squeek, I disasembled and heat shrinked the springs to stop the rubbing.(seems to help) The seat post is very poor design(stripes and tilts back). Again the delear denies there is a problem. With-in a month the factory tires were worn through. My new wild grippers are much better. The mavic 221's and rear hub need to be upgraded as soon possible. The hayes brakes are pretty unbelivable. The bike does ride and handle great. Climbs well and is very fast cross-country. This is a good bike for the guy who can afford to make some upgrades right off the bat. If not, maybe there is a better bike out there for you.
Specialized needs to read all these reviews and make some small changes. And how about some customer service????? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel Wiley
a Cross Country Rider
from Dayton, OH USA
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Porcupine Rim, Moab UT | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | BikeSource | | Strengths: | Crazy light! Got hills? This bike just sits up and begs for more climbing! Good value for the money. | | Weaknesses: | OEM tires and tubes are too lightweight. They keep the weight for the demo ride low, but aren't worth a fistful of rubles after 200 miles on the trail. Mavic x221 rims could be stronger - I've had more adjustments with the rear rim than any other bike I've ridden. Seatpost was a little weak-Ritchey needs a stainless threaded insert in the aluminum seat post attachment block. I stripped my seatpost out on a crash early on. Fortunately, the part was repairable, or Specialized was going to get a nastygram for me having to drop $75 on a new seatpost 1 month into this bike's life. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher HooKooEKoo, Klein Attitude, Trek 8500, Gary Fisher Sugar, Schwinn Moab
| | Bike Setup: | Stock, with Kenda Tires and Cateye bike computer | | Bottom Line: | Can't say enough good about this bike. I rode a heavy Bianchi steel-framed stiffy for about 5-6 years, and learned how to handle a bike on trails. On the StumpJumper I felt like I was 4-5 miles an hour faster on every trail - this bike just LOVES to climb! Also, it just picks up from a standstill - bunnyhops and air is awesome on this bike. They don't call it the StumpJumper for nothin'! I've put over 1000 miles on this bike in the last 9 months, on road, downhill, XC, BMX tracks, singletrack, slickrock, dirt road, you name it - this bike takes them all and just keeps going. I'm not the fastest guy down the hill, but I'm always leading that climb back up. You'll forget about trail shuttles with this bike - you won't mind riding up. I was going to get a Gary Fisher Sugar full suspension, but after tasting the lightweight speed and no-bob climbing that this hardtail has to offer, I'm not going to full-suspension. I'll leave FS for when my butt gets lazy and I get old and tired............Nahh........
I wish that the wheels were stronger or at least didn't require truing after every 3rd hard ride. New rims will be my first upgrade.
Bottom line? Buy this bike if you've got $1000 bucks to spend - for the level of componentry that you get and the weight (low-low!) it's a bargain. Is it the best hardtail that you've ever ridden? Nope. But for 1Grand, it ain't too shabby! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Felix
a Cross Country Rider
from NY
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | saxon woods | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | millers bicycle | | Strengths: | Light, very light. The frame is amazingly light (I realize i just said that three times in a row.
paint job, saddle. the way this bike feels and handles is amazing! | | Weaknesses: | none except for the lx front deraileur, but this is easily upgraded since they only cost about 20 dollars i think. | | Similar Products Used: | rocky mountain stratos, 02 rockhopper comp | | Bike Setup: | stock, plan to upgrade front derailieur | | Bottom Line: | this is simply a beautiful bike. with an upgraded front deraileur this bike would be perfect.
the way this bike handles is unbelievable! the lightweight frame makes climbing effortless and so much more fun then with my older bike. i really fell in love with it. the way it treats me on the trail is, as if I were on clouds. as a reward it gets to hybernate in my room for the winter until the snow is gone!b (I am not crazy)
when looking for a new bike this year i was mainly looking at the rockhopper, mainly because of the red and the price. then i tested this one and now im pretty much broke but it is worth every penny and i am very very happy with this new ride. Did i mention the beautiful welds and luscious paint job?
I recommend this bike to anyone looking for a great ride and for thos who can afford it. im just happy i caddied the whole summer! just be sure to get a tuff lock if you commute to work or school and are a weekend warrior.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zeke
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver
Date Reviewed: December 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | north shore | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | bike celler (vancouver)bc | | Strengths: | Wanna fly? love the Loght weight, solid aluminum frame, good component gorup | | Weaknesses: | the mavic 221's rims aren't the greatest, nor is the stock crank set, weak front derailleur (LX) | | Similar Products Used: | too many.. | | Bike Setup: | stock with the follwing upgrades: xt front/rear brakes and levers, xt shifter set, xt front derailleur, Race face isis crank set, race face xy seat post, easton carbon bar.mavic crossride rims (the best!), XT rear cassette. this bike ended up being REAL light! | | Bottom Line: | this is an awesome bang for the bike. all you really needed to do was upgrade the rims to mavic crossrides or 517's, an xt derailleur in the front, and you're gone!!!this bike climbs like no other bike i have tried. it's unbelievably light weight, so prepare to fly and blow everyones door off.
love the thick glossy paint job.
bottom line....if you're xc'er buy this bike. you will NOT be dissapointed!
i'd love to give this whole bike a 5 star rating, but if the component group was better, i would.
happy riding!
i ride 75% cross country 25%trail, 4 times a week 10 miles or more at a time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Bereika
a Cross Country Rider
from Richomd
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Blair Witch Trail@ Poor Farm | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Agees | | Strengths: | Frame geometry and strength, Pedals, Judy SL (very plush for the $$), | | Weaknesses: | Wheelset!!, some of the components need upgrading, front derailleur (replace with XT or XTR) | | Similar Products Used: | Bridgestone MB4 | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock for now, but plan to upgrade. Rolfe Dolomite wheelset, Hutchinson Pythons (front&back). Bontrager Race Stem, Profile Design short bar ends, shaved 1 inch off handlebars, | | Bottom Line: | This is a sweet ride! I'd have to say easily the best bike in it's price range. It's stiff, solid, light and very easy to maneuver. The Stumpjumper climbs extremely well and descends quickly through anything although I think it performs best on hardpack. The stiff frame can "bounce" a bit when manuvering through highly rooted and rocky terrain...as does any other hardtail I've ridden. The wheelset had to go. In fact, I bent the rear rim about a month after the purchase. The Specialized Pro tires had great trend and performed well while they lasted, but had a short life span. The stem was also a bit to long for my liking. Moving from a steel frame to Aluminum took some adjusting, but now the bike and I ride as one. As I continue to customize and upgrade the features on my Specialized, a greater appreciation grows for it and I realize more and more how incredible the frame on this bike really is. This is my first year racing and I feel very comfortable competing on this bike. I'd say the Stumpjumper is perfect for any level of riding. What a great sport. Ride on my friends, ride on... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ian
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, Colorado, USA
Date Reviewed: September 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Colorado trail - Buffalo Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | University Bikes | | Strengths: | Great frame that can be upgraded with better components later. | | Weaknesses: | Already on my second frame due to a bad weld ... other than that none. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized RockHopper | | Bike Setup: | Stock + bar ends + XT front deraileur + Shimano 858 pedals + Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires | | Bottom Line: | Just a great bike. Upgraded from my old RockHopper when the head tube cracked and got a steal of a deal on the '01 M4 Stumpy. Was pretty pissed when the frame started creaking after a month ... turned out to be a bad weld at the head tube, so I got a new frame.
Haven't looked back since then ... I love the bike. It's very light, climbs and descends well and handles well in twisty stuff too. Have done a bunch of riding this summer from rocky trails to buff cruisers and high alpine rides ... no complaints about the bike itself.
The Time pedals just *did not* work for me so I switched over to Shimano 858 which work better (for me). I like being able to control the release setting. If the Times are driving you nuts (and I the have bruises to prove it), try another pedal design.
Am having a few issues with the rear wheel going out of true pretty often, but that's about it. Love the Body Geometry saddle, like the red-n-black paint job. I even like the Judy SL much against my better judgement ... it clangs every once in a while, but the action is smooth.
Basically you buy this bike for the frame and then upgrade components at your leisure. If you are looking for a sweet, light hardtail look no further.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Newport Beach, CA
Date Reviewed: September 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Tahoe Rim Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Sea Schwinn | | Strengths: | Great bike. Climbs great, Very fast. Nice components for the money. Good shocks. Seat is pretty comfortable. | | Weaknesses: | the tires dont have very good traction and my shocks are squeaky but they still perform great, | | Similar Products Used: | trek fuel 80
khs comp st
trek 6500
| | Bike Setup: | factory | | Bottom Line: | a great bike for the dollar | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Abraham Shield
a Cross Country Rider
from Traverse City, Michigan
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | 25K Vasa X-country ski trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Fitness Source & Cycle | | Strengths: | Sweet frame, nice drivetrain components, and great pedals. (Time clipless) | | Weaknesses: | Tires suck, seat takes getting used to, major chain slap, and minor front shifting problems | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized '00 FSR Enduro, '91 Fuji Mt. Fuji LTD | | Bike Setup: | Cateye cyclocomputer. Tires have to go, lopping 1" of the bars, getting bar ends, grips, fenders, lizardskin, and Hayes front disc. | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks! My old bike was a 1991 Fuji with a Manitou shock added last year. I really needed to upgrade, as I have been riding alot more. This bike weighs SO much less than my old bike, it's like I became a stronger climber overnight! Climbing is this bikes strongpoint, I have looked under my top tube to make sure I don't have a 125cc motor hidden somwhere! I have ridden my friends FSR Enduro, and don't like it near as much. Too heavy, rear susp. wastes energy on uphills, and too much maintenance. If you want a killer bike and lots of room for upgrades on a great frame, pick one up!
P.S. I ride 70% off road 30% on road, it's great at both! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Filthy
a
from DC
Date Reviewed: September 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Lincoln Steps | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | B.P.S. DC | | Strengths: | Frame, geometry, fit. | | Weaknesses: | Strongarm cranks, Judy SL fork. | | Similar Products Used: | None - (Schwinn beach cruiser?) | | Bike Setup: | Stock standard | | Bottom Line: | Nice ride, fits me like a glove. Light weight frame that appears relatively strong.
Only issues with the Specialized cranks/chainrings - weak as piss, and the Judy SL. Top out springs were shot after 2 rides. Upgrades will fix this.
Sick of lugging that 40lb free-ride wonder up hills, get this bike. You will climb quicker, and be less slothful on the downhills. (then spend your $1000 in savings on beer like I did) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Ishpeming, MI
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | The goat trail, etc. | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | local shop | | Strengths: | great frame.. descent fork, good value | | Weaknesses: | wheelset... tires are flimsy, seat takes getting used to.. the brakes are also a little on the cheap end.. | | Similar Products Used: | lots | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | even though ive already torn through two rear tires and my wheels are toast, and broken front brakes, the bike is an excellent all around cross country bike.... buy it for the frame and upgrade | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Needham, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 27, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | International Bike Centers | | Strengths: | Great Frame!, drivetrain components, pedals, value | | Weaknesses: | wheelset (rims, hubs), tires, seat takes a little getting used to | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike for the price, it is very raceable, and great for doing all sorts of riding. I love the frame on this bike, it climbs like a goat on steriods. Also, the drivetrain components are great for the price. This bike screams value. If money isn't an issue you might as well go with the Stumpjumper Pro. I would've but all I really cared about on this bike was the frame. I really like the M4 Frame it (as I said) climbs great, but adds a nice cushion to the rear (if only the seat did). The seat isn't actually that bad, you just gotta get used to it. If you can't I suggest getting the Body geometry pro seat. It is harder, but actually more comfy.
The only remotely major problem is the wheelset. The Mavic 221 rims are alright, but if you're going to be doing any hardcore crap I'd upgrade. Also, if you don't know how to true wheels, either learn (my suggestion) or move up to the 517, 618, or CrossMax's. The rim isn't that bad though. You can live with it. Also, the biggest problem with the wheels are the Specialized hubs. These things are pretty light, but they are not durable at all. You will probably have to replace them in a year or two (depending on how much riding you do). If you don't ride that much though, don't worry about it. (I ride at least a few times a week.)
It's just that the way the inside of the hubs corrodes with the ball bearings, it wears down. I suggest you upgrade to either shimano xt, xtr hubs or chris king's. (custom wheels obviously) Last, the tires are light, but not super treaded. You could keep the specialized one on the front, but change the back to a Panaracer, or a Michilen. If your going to do anything rough.
IMPORTANT NOTE: I got this bike for $750, but it is usually sold for $999.99 at the shop I work at. This is a good price anyways, considering it retails for over $1300.
Overall, this is a great bike and I love it despite the wheels. I'd really like to give it a 4.5 but I'll give it a five. (round up)
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Kintner
a Cross Country Rider
from Glendora, CA USA
Date Reviewed: August 15, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Big Bear | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$860.00 | | Purchased At: | Jones Bicycles, San Marino CA | | Strengths: | The Frame rocks! Judy SL fork is very responsive. Time Alium pedals. I like the PRO tires, they roll very quick! | | Weaknesses: | Already had to have the rear wheel trued. | | Similar Products Used: | Nishiki Backroads (not even close to the same category!) | | Bike Setup: | Stock 18" with a Specialized Elite wireless computer. | | Bottom Line: | I've done some very agressive XC and Downhill riding on this bike and have no complaints. In fact the bike has made me a much better and more confident rider. Rode the 2N10 16 mile loop up at Big Bear and this bike climbed like a goat and descended like a cheetah. Got a great deal at a local bike shop (it's selling for $239 more at another shop near my house). And liked the bike and value so much that we just bought a 13" for my wife.
This is an amazing bike with an excellent frame, nothing needs to be upgraded immediately, but when you do need to upgrade it will only make this bike BETTER. This thing is ready to race.....I just need to hurry and catch up! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay Chan
a Cross Country Rider
from KL
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | Eric's Bike | | Strengths: | Reasonable components. Catchy YELLOW/BLACK color. Very responsive bike, especially when you take the uneven trials. The front brakes plus the PRO tires make a good couple for extremely steep technical downhill slopes--very predictable steering control. With the Judy SL, its is superb positive handling on high speed loose gravel downhill--BRAVO | | Weaknesses: | Too many OEM parts. I dont like the HUBS. and the grips. They look sucky (Not professional) I look around at 4 bikes shops and all M4 Yellow have bad paint jobs!!!! Too bad I had to choose one with a paint defect too. Booo!!! to the painters!! | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher KAI TAI. upgraded to Judy XC and other XT components | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Hayes front dics brakes which helped a lot and the change of TIME clipless | | Bottom Line: | Get one of these super responsive bikes without spending much on upgrading until you are ready to burn your wallet. A good start for medium range bikers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave
a Weekend Warrior
from arlington, va
Date Reviewed: August 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | fountainhead | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | light weight, no-nonsense fork, time pedals, stiff and strong frame | | Weaknesses: | weak OE tires, sorta-ugly paint job | | Similar Products Used: | 1990 rockhopper sport | | Bike Setup: | stock except for panaracer trailblaster tires (2.1) | | Bottom Line: | Was away from mountain biking for a while after my olddie-but-goodie rockhopper rigid was stolen. Then got the bug back after renting a bike and riding with friends. Got the M4 for a great price online and have been unable to stop grinning. I don't have much to compare it to, but it's an awesome bike that is capable of just flying. Just remember to consider a pair of real offroad tires into your purchase price. The ones that come with the bike are like slicks with zits- they suck. Oh, and I'm also one of the minority that find the body geometry seats very comfortable. Excellent bike to just buy and ride the hell out of (with different tires, of course). 5 flaming doodies. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a
from Salt Lake City, UT
Date Reviewed: July 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Wasatch Crest Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1099.00 | | Purchased At: | Canyon Bicycles | | Strengths: | Beutiful bike that rides great. Don't pay MSRP. I bought mine new for a great deal from a local shop that would offer customer support for product - didn't want to mess with e-bay on this one. | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the money | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Raun
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver , B.C. Canada
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Cellar | | Strengths: | Light/strong Frame,Shimano shift levers,Hayes disc brakes | | Weaknesses: | Cheap front deraileur, Ritchey seat post,Judy SL's | | Similar Products Used: | 1995 Specialized Team M2/Giant 860 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except Hayes Disc Brakes | | Bottom Line: | The frame is practically bomb proof with a gorgeous front weld point.the M4 is light,quick,and extremely responsive. But, demands respect and control during downhill portions of any trail. Solid over rocks and drop-offs,making a satisfying "ping" noise reminicent of my long lost M2. Slightly heavier than the old M2,especially after adding the Hayes Disc Brakes,its actually helped in the climbing trails (less tire spin-out.) The bike could really use some SID's in place of the Judies just for a quick lock out during a killer climb. The seat isn't as bad as other people are reporting, It just takes some getting use to. The Ritchey seat post unfortunatly doesn't want to keep my seat still at my desired, slight nose down angle. I'm starting to experience shifting problems,which I suspect originate in the cheap front derailleur.The two tone Black/Red paint job is well done,thick and luxurious,I just personally wish it was all red. Otherwise, Road or Trail, it's an awesome ride! I'd recomend the bike to any rider who wanted to move up from a weekend ride to a more solid xc hard tail with a frame that's worth building on. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a
from Houston, TX
Date Reviewed: July 22, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Looks, Shimano components, Judy SL fork, M4 frame, fairly good value if you can catch the bike on sale and under a $1000 | | Weaknesses: | In house Specialized products: crankset, stem, etc... | | Bike Setup: | Stock with the exception of an Avid sd-7 brakeset, ES-70 BB, and LX hollowtech crankset | | Bottom Line: | Unfortunately, living in southern Texas isn't exactly mountain bike terrority. Most of the riding is done on the street or through dirt paths through the woods. Therefore, I can not testify to the offroad ability of the Stumpjumper. Nevertheless, the Stumpjumper is an excellent bike for the intermediate to advanced rider, it is extremely light weight and has a great feel. In addition, it accelerates quickly, has a red/black paint job that is absolutely beautiful, and it's made in the USA (with parts from USA and abroad). If your looking for a new bike, I would definitely recommend looking into a Specialized Stumpjumper M4. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kurt
a Weekend Warrior
from Rosevile, Ca
Date Reviewed: July 22, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | City Bikes | | Strengths: | light, tough. Awesome climber as mentioned many times previous. cool colors-black/yellow. can't really go wrong with Shimano and Specialized... | | Weaknesses: | I definitely agree with the previous comments regarding the seat--harder than concrete!!! | | Similar Products Used: | I'm new to the mtn bike world, but used to ride road bikes--archaic in comparrison! | | Bike Setup: | bar ends, fatter grips. soon to get: rock shox seat post, and maybe some fatter, more aggressive tires--otherwise stock for the most part is just fine with me. | | Bottom Line: | my last bike was a 18 speed centurion road bike, so this thing is truly amazing to me! Even though I have no other experience with mountain bikes, I can understand the argument for full suspension when it comes to downhill. However, for me, this thing is an awesome performer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad
a Weekend Warrior
from Norman,Oklahoma,USA
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Lake Draper, Okla. City, Ok | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Millers Cycling and Fitness | | Strengths: | Lightweight, smooth gear transfer | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Judy SL shocks, xt rear derailer, mavic wheels, stock setup | | Bottom Line: | I am partial to Specialized from previuos hours on a Rockhopper, I like the looks of the bike and the feel of the bike. I do not spend alot of time repairing things on my bike. That allows me to load the bike up and hit the trails. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Yetti
a Cross Country Rider
from Pa
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$860.00 | | Purchased At: | Jones Bicycles | | Strengths: | Lightweight, nice design. Seat is really comfy compared to all thoses other trek seats. | | Weaknesses: | none really, i havnt taken her out hard yet so we will see. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike. But after riding a trek 930 for 2 years I'm not horribly impressed. But if your looking for a hot ride thats fast and good looking, this is your hunney. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Ciocca
a
from Shavertown,Pa,USA
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Courtdale | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$860.00 | | Purchased At: | Jones Bicycle(EBAY) | | Strengths: | Weight,Speed~Climbs like its mother was a montain goat. Nice design. | | Weaknesses: | Seat, hot dam.. I thought this thing was body geometry. | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Attitude comp | | Bike Setup: | New Outa Bike. Components a bit weak compared to similar products in the same price range. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is sweet ride. If your lookin for a bike thats faster than you are, this is it. Look for a buy on ebay before you go to a store. You can get some serious deals.Just be patient and wait for something to pop up. Overall this bike is worth the money i paid for it. To tell you the truth, I wasn't willing to go any higher. I just dont think the bike is worth even a G. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colin Harbut
a Weekend Warrior
from Long Beach, California, US
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$860.00 | | Purchased At: | Jones Bicycles | | Strengths: | Strong frame, extremely lightweight, fast as hell, awesome acceleration, paint job (black/red), climbs well, smooth ride. Nice components overall. | | Weaknesses: | Seat sucks. Give it a week...it may soften up. If you don't get use to it, replace it. | | Similar Products Used: | First real mountain bike. | | Bike Setup: | Right out of the box - red/black | | Bottom Line: | Awesome bike, especially for what I paid. I chose the front suspension instead of a full suspension bike because of the speed I can get on this thing - I felt like so much energy was lost on the rear suspension (or wheel) when peddling on any full suspension bikes at this price. Full suspension really isn't necessary for me. This bike climbs like no other, and its lightweight frame crushes competition when racing. Downhill, this bike halls...great control.
For the type of riding I do (about 70% city, 30% off road), it kicks butt. Grab one for yourself! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from IA
Date Reviewed: June 15, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Strengths: | Alot of bang for the buck. | | Weaknesses: | 5 Yr frame warranty ipo lifetime, chain slap, A small "creaking" noise from the seat post area, body geometry seat might be the only seat ever conceived that is less comfortable than an coach class airline seat. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Paragon, Trek 8000 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for front derail(now an XT),changed the Judy travel to 100mm, Lizard Skin chain stay protector & bar ends. | | Bottom Line: |
A bit pricey when compared component to component with the Trek 8000. The bike climbs like a goat and is incredibly quick. The only complaint (if you can call it that) is that the bike is geared for serious mountains. You know the kind of climb where you wish you could somehow shift onto your spoke protector. As I live in the mid-west (and there really aren't many climbs such as this) the gearing ends up a little low. Oh, and I could not agree more with the guy who made the comment about the seat. Sitting on the seat post might be more comfortable but I am unwilling to try this for obvious reasons. Buy the entry level Jumper and upgrade only if you need it.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Max
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami, Fl. US
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$975.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Tech | | Strengths: | Weight, weight, weight. | | Weaknesses: | The seat is not too nice on the rear. | | Similar Products Used: | gary fisher koo koo ... | | Bike Setup: | stock except for specialized bar ends | | Bottom Line: | Great change from the 94 barracuda I was riding. The judy's have great absorbsion and the bike is really easy to handle. It is a little noise when you just hop around.
I really wanted the yellow/black combo but it was
only avail in 18. The red/black combo still looks
great. This is the best bike for the price range I
was looking for. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rhadr
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Chubb | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1350.00 | | Purchased At: | Sunset Cyclery | | Strengths: | Sturdy setup with a great weight. Decent components, great geometry for quick downhills. Extremely quick and | | Weaknesses: | Mavic 221's - Extermely easy to ruin if you ride them hard. LX Front Derailleur, noise back brake cables, Judy on mine has leaked continuously but am told it is rare for the SL. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 8500 | | Bike Setup: | Ugraded XT front der., Judy SL springs upgraded, USE seat post and 517 rear | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price. Loved abusing this bike all through winter, spring and looking forward to continuing the abuse through summer. The only thing is that I've found myself second guessing myself on the decion of not spending a bit more for a FS. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gene Rekko
a Cross Country Rider
from Meerssen,Netherlands
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | all the trails in Limburg | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | It is a bike wich you should buy if you want to kick ass because I did so. I only need a little warmup for myself, because the bike will suck up all my energy. It wants to ride faster than I can. There are also no limits exacept your own guts. I have the bike for two months now and drove almost 2000 km with it(with a 2day in the week training!). It has also two great tires wich can stand the heat I create when I go downhill | | Weaknesses: | There're 3 weaknesses and that's the brake set and the bike steering after you go on the pedals(this weakness is only wenn you're driving harder underground's).It has also a hard sadlle but you get used to it after a while | | Similar Products Used: | An alu bike with a Rockshox Jett sl 2000 fork and the Shimano Lx group | | Bike Setup: | Rockshox judy sl, Time alu pedals, Mavic 221X rims, Shimano LX/XT, Specialized team conrol/team master | | Bottom Line: | It has the greatest geometry, because it's very comfortable.It's the best bike I ever had, and I'm faster than the other bikers. Now just have to test it in a match, but the way it goes up till now im pritty sure that I'm going to win that contest. So for the other bikers out there: this should be a warning, because I' m faster than you!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Pepperell, MA
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Nashua river | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | Littleton Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Bike is pretty light and climbs very well. Comfortable to ride, great saddle. All components are working well for smooth shifting and braking. Great paint job! | | Weaknesses: | Wheels are a little weak. I have bent the real wheel twice in the last month which have cost me $40 to get trued. | | Bike Setup: | Right out of the box! | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the money. Light weight, good components and comfortable to ride. The bike feels fast and climbs easily. If you are a weekend warrior looking for a good hardtail for reasoniblee money, this is your bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tanner
a Weekend Warrior
from Mississippi
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1350.00 | | Strengths: | pretty light, good componets for the price, great pedals, can handle any type of terrain. great in ascents as well as descents | | Weaknesses: | saddle feels like a needle in your rear, i can barely walk after a ride | | Similar Products Used: | trek 8500, stumpjumper fsr | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | great bike for the money. would definetly get another. any one who loves to ride would love this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Theran Martin
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs,CO
Date Reviewed: May 7, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1040.00 | | Purchased At: | Criterium Bikes | | Strengths: | Awesome bike, very smooth and lightwieght.Has a good fork and good components.Excellent bike for the money, the frame makes the best part of it! | | Weaknesses: | I wish it had a better wheelset and crankset, but overall it rocks! | | Similar Products Used: | I had a Canondale 800superlight but it doesnt evencompare to this | | Bike Setup: | Stock from factory,LX front, XT rear, Mavic 221's with Specialized front and Shimano rear, Avid 1.9 brakes, Specialized stem, bars, StrongArm 2 cranks, and seat | | Bottom Line: | Excellent bike for the money and the ride, i would suggest it to anyone who loves to ride and have good ride at that! Same great frame as the higher models for less so if you want you can always upgrade to be as good or if not better than the pro, comp, or s-works, if you dont have the money to buy the higher end Stumpjumper right away! But If you love a good comfortable ride and this thing handles whatever you can dish at it then this is the ride for you! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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