Submitted by
Big Al
a Weekend Warrior
from Ogden, UT Date Reviewed: August 6, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
I'm borrowing the bike
Weaknesses:
Big tires (2.4 and above) barely fit on the frame.
Bike Setup:
1997 M2 stock bike except with 4 inch travel Zoke Z1 Bam on front and 2.4 inch WTB Motoraptor tires.
The bike doesn't turn as tight with the long fork, but is very stable on fast straight downhills and easier on the hands. The tires soften the ride, add a pound of weight, but I don't care. I'm not racing. I keep up with my buds on the climbs anyways.
Bottom Line:
My full suspension 1999 GT XCR-1000 is being warrantied due to a stress fracture. So I'm borrowing this bike in the meantime and I tell you, I don't miss my FS. The ride on the Stumperjumper HT is not that much harsher. But the FS is easier on your wheels when doing rough rides.
I'm probably a little slower downhill, but not much more. I'm probably a little faster uphill, but not much more. My overall performance is pretty much the same. Is it worth the extra 1000 bucks for the FS, hell no (if I only knew then).
If you've got money to throw away and want a little more comfortable ride, get an FS (adding a plush fork and big tires to a HT adds significant comfort). But now that I know what I know, I feel that the extra money for an FS isn't worth it over the M2 HT. This Stumperjumper rides awesome!!! Don't believe the hype!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, AB Date Reviewed: January 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Powderface
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Outtabounds in Regina (CDN $)
Strengths:
The bike is very stiff, the rear shifting is quite good, the brakeset on the bike is exceptional, and the bike provided good value right out of the box.
Weaknesses:
The crankset and rings aren't particularily great... neither were the pedals. I have never had the $$$ to replace the crankset, but at the earliest convenience I switched the Full Contact pedals for Shimano 535s. The seat hurt my ass, but I just bolted on my old Ritchey Vector and rode away...
Similar Products Used:
Quite a few, actually. I've spent time on a 2001 S-Works hardtail, and it rides a lot like our bikes. I really seriously compared a GT Avalanche and a Rocky Mtn. Hammer Race to the Stumpy. I ride my buddy's Klein Mantra every so often... and I've tried a few higher-end race bikes momentarily...
Bike Setup:
'99 Stumpy Comp with Shimano 535 pedals, Special-rise low-rise handlebar, Panaracer FireXCPro front tire, Trace brake-booster (useless piece of crap... does nothing), Salsa grips, Ritchey Vector Comp seat and a few stickers...
Bottom Line:
I reviewed this bike about a year and a half ago, but I think my current review is a bit more pertinent, since I've been riding and sport-class racing my bike for just over two years now. It's not like anything's changed about the bike... in fact, almost NOTHING has changed on the bike. Still has the OEM Kool Stop brake pads, the Manitou SX still does its' job and has never leaked, the shifting is still good. The bike is scratched-up quite badly, but I have yet to bend the Ritchey post, and I've never heard so much as a creak emanate from the frame itself. The rims went out of true shortly after the break-in period, but my old shop trued them and now they're arrow-straight.
Seriously, other than some of the cheaper-ish componentry, this bike has given me almost nothing to complain about. I've never really needed to redo bearings or fix very many OEM components, even though I ride creek crossings fairly routinely. This bike is a no-worries ride, and although I might have either gone a little higher-end when I bought it, or swapped a few components out of the doors of the shop, I don't regret the purchase at all...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Bryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA, USA Date Reviewed: July 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Whidbey Island Trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Bicycles West--Warehouse
Strengths:
Super-light, quick and responsive.
Weaknesses:
Cranks/chainrings--cause severe chain suck. Seat--more of a racing than riding seat. Pedals--stock shimano do not have much float--makes for sore knees after long rides. Tires--a little light for heavy trail riding.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 9000
Bike Setup:
Stock except for seat (replaced with SerfasRX). Also added specialized computer, shockboard fenders and bontrager bar-ends.
Bottom Line:
A great bike overall for virtually any class of rider--lightweight and responsive. With a few modifications (cranks, seat, pedals, tires), it's an awesome bike! Only major downside is that it's not setup for disc brakes--but that's only because it's the '99 model.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff rivas
a Cross Country Rider
from glendale, ca Date Reviewed: April 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
viper
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
bicycle doctor
Strengths:
the bike is light comes with xtr derailuer, manitou shocks worked great, mavic rims held up well, frame was very strong for the type of downhilling i do
Weaknesses:
just like other reviews before me the crankset has to go. i had to replace a few months after purchasing it, because the teeth did not hold up and it would suck the chain in and scratch the frame. i would suggest upgrading to xt or xtr. and the grips are only good for a little while until the either slip off or tear. and try a easton carbon handle bar.
Bike Setup:
only upgraded grips, crankset to lx, handlebar to easton carbon c2, and a lot of new tires everything else was stock, like the ritchey seat post, specialized saddle, hg cassette, and manitou fork,
Bottom Line:
the question to ask would be if i would buy it again, and the answer is yes. i found it easier to whip out, and control the bike on awsome single tracks. not to mention i have put this bike through mud, water, extremely rough terrain many times and it is still running great. i have heard of many people having these bikes for a long time. for the money i spent it was well worth it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terrence Helm
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis minnesota u s a Date Reviewed: February 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
wallers mill ,Williamsburg Va.
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
vendor scrap
Strengths:
I HAVE BEEN RIDING M2 FRAMES SCINCE 1993 I STARTED WITH A S-WORKS AND HAVE OWNED THREE MORE SCINCE THEN THE RIDING CARICTORISTICS ARE AWSOME THE HARDER YOU RIDE THEESE BIKES I WOULD SAY THAT THE RIDE IS BETTER THAN MY JAMIS DAKOTA PRO , AND THE CLIMBING IS LIKE THAT OF A MOUNTAIN GOAT ,
Weaknesses:
UNLESS YOU RIDE THIS BIKE HARD AND FAST YOU CANNOT APPREICIATE IT !
Similar Products Used:
M2 S-WORKS
Bike Setup:
FULL XTR, THOMSON SEAT POST ,HOPE HUBS , DT TIE SPOKES ,517 RIMS,PROFILE STIFFY STEM 135X20 TWO 8mm and one five mm SPACERS PROFILE CARBON BAR AND BAR ENDS ,SID FORK ,FROG PEDALS
Bottom Line:
I WAS THE PRODUCTION LINE LEAD IN SALT LAKE FOR SPECIALIZED SO I GUESS I CAN BE A LITTLE PASSIONATE ABOUT THE STUMPY ,I GOT THE FRAME FROM THE FACTORY AND BUILT IT UP WITH SELECTED PARTS ,NOT TO TAKE AWAY FROM THE OEM PARTS ,THEY PUT SOME GOOD STUFF ON THE BIKES . THE 2001 MODELS ARE REALY IMPRESSIVE TOO.I HAVE LIVED IN FLORIDA, UTAH,AND VIRGINIA ,SO I HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF RIDING ALL OVER THE COUNTRY A REGULAR SPROCKET HEAD AND HAVE HEARD NOTHING BUT GOOD THINGS ABOUT THE STUMP JUMPER
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Marlatt
a Cross Country Rider
from Rancho Cordova, CA USA Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Salmon Falls
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Bob's Cycle Center
Strengths:
Lightweight and stiff frame, nimble handling, climbs like no other, XTR rear derailleur
Weaknesses:
stock tires are too hardpack-specific, cranks could be better, TIME pedals would be nice, stock grips were terrible
Similar Products Used:
I work in a bike shop so I get to ride many of the latest and greatest bikes.
Bike Setup:
Mainly stock except for the tires, handlebar, grips, saddle, and soon the pedals.
Bottom Line:
I'm very happy with the bike. It climbs as good as anything and cuts through corners beautifully. A few modifications here and there and it would be even better. This is a bike for someone who's into cross country. It wasn't intended for downhill type runs...although if your skills are up to it, that is actually pretty fun. If you're a weight weeny you'll love it. You'll love the 2001 Stumpy hardtails even more. They're all M4 now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from North-East MA Date Reviewed: January 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
technical
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Frame, handling, climbs like a goat
Weaknesses:
original cranks, BB, pedals
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
99 stumpjumper, 2001 Marzocchi Z.3, Race Face BB and Cranks, Time ATAC pedals(the best)
Bottom Line:
This bike is great for the technical ridding that I do in MA. I have had this bike for over two years and have been very happy with it. Great going uphill and pretty good going down too. Originally had a SID XC on it but changed to the Z.3 recently. The SID sucked. Buy this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Caccese
a Weekend Warrior
from staten island NY Date Reviewed: January 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
GREen Belts
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
bennetts bike crudd
Strengths:
The frame it self is very light and stiff.Bike comes well equiped.*****product review for the 2000 version*********
Weaknesses:
Some people say the saddle that is comes with sux,, well.. i can see y some ppl dont like it but if your light weight it does not suck.Tires will need to be changed.That little re-bound knob on the bottem of the fork, i broke it off the first day i got the bike... O yea the name heheh
Similar Products Used:
First real bike, at first look it looks like just another hardtail.
Bike Setup:
All the regular gear that comes with but i got platforms a riser bar,new tires and got soft springs for the sx-r.
Bottom Line:
OK, this bike is Very good if you just getting in to the sport,i have been riding since november (2000) and now i am bombing off 3 foot leges and learning to ride better.The frame is o.. so very light but also very strong, i crash a lot(nothing to big)and there is no damage to the bike except for small paint scraches.If you are planing to ride good dirt trails you will need to get new tires because the ones that come with it slide all over if you ride fast.The fork is very nice, once i put soft springs in it,,it felt nice and mushy. : )
If you think you know how to ride but your not into the sport yet this bike is right for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Weekend Warrior
from Fairfax VA Date Reviewed: December 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Shafer Farms MD
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
Hudson Trail Outfitters MD
Strengths:
Fairly light bike, fast, good geometry, decent price.
Weaknesses:
The crank arm fell off a few months after I bought it. It loosened on a ride andthe metal was so soft it could not be fixed. The shop said it wasn't their fault so I had to buy a new crank arm. I got the same one again and I tightened the heck out of it and tighten them before every ride and so far so good. The front middle sproket (which should be protected) got all bent to heck. The teeth are going every which way. I couldn't believe it. I am getting a new crank/sprocket set up. Also, the other crank arm , the sproket side got real loose really soon
I hear people talk about 'chain suck.' I don't know what that is but my cranks will just totally lock up sometimes and its not when shifting but rather just riding up a hill. The cranks just stop dead and I have to sort of stutter pedal to get going again. Seat sucks. Tires wore out really fast.
Chain stay is all chewed up.
Seatpost clamp bolt snapped.
Similar Products Used:
I went from a Raleigh Heat which weighed a ton.
Bike Setup:
Stock execpt for bar ends, new seat.
Bottom Line:
Even though this bike had some problems I think it is an awesome bike. Just make sure the bike shop mechanic is taking his 1 gram of protein per lb of body weight when tightening up the cranks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
prairiedoc
a Weekend Warrior
from the flatlands Date Reviewed: November 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1199.00
Strengths:
light, nimble
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
XTR/Raceface cranks, stem/Time pedals/Easton riser bars/SunRhino Lite rims (someone stole my stock ones)
Bottom Line:
I've owned this bike for two years now and finally have it spec'd just right. I've ridden it almost 6000 kilometers. It's still light and fast and handles great. Granted that we don't have a lot of gnarly stuff in Manitoba, but for the fast technical rolling stuff, it's great. I love this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAy Marinelli
a Cross Country Rider
from Hebron, CT Date Reviewed: November 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Birch MT
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1299.00
Purchased At:
Sunshine Cycle
Strengths:
Stiff Frame. Climbs awesome. XTR rear. Light.
Weaknesses:
Specialized tires wore in 4 rides. Specialized stock pedals were horrible switched to TIME. Rear bearings toast in 6 mos. CHAIN SUCK!!!!!!
Bike Setup:
TIME pedals. Sun rear rim. WTB Velacorapters. Otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome. It climbs like a goat. It descends admirably for such a stiff frame. The bike is very predictable on fast singletrack. If you have one you know what I am talking about. If you don't get one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Parsons
a Cross Country Rider
from Salinas Date Reviewed: October 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any thing in Fort ord, Ca
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
used, on mtbr, all reviews decided it for me
Strengths:
All
Weaknesses:
chainstay, my jumbo lizard skin barely fits, THE SEAT SUCKS i rode twice and changed it, only because i couldn't get to buy a new one till after the second ride, i thought people were just wussies, but it is harder than my BMX seats. The Body geometry sport ATB is awesome, i've only gone on a few rides, but i haven't felt pain ever. It's $40 at my lbs, Joseylns in monterey. If possible, the Sport ATB is better than the sport:the atb has cool fins in the wedge, and it has a more durable cover.
Similar Products Used:
99 hardrock, fsr sport
Bike Setup:
stock, lizard skins chainstay and headset guard, odi lock jaws, Body Geometry seat
Bottom Line:
I can ride up hills in higher gears and climb I couldn't in my old bike. It looks awesome, especially the black wheelset and black handlebars and stem. I wish it had the special rise bar though. It's awesome!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Raya
a Cross Country Rider
from Asheville, NC, USA Date Reviewed: October 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Kitsuma
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Franklin Street Cycles
Strengths:
Super strong, stiff, fast.
Weaknesses:
The stock cranks, rings, and seat suck
Similar Products Used:
Shwin Moab
Bike Setup:
Full xtr,Black spire Cranks and rings, pazaz DH riser bars and stem, Time attack pedals, Cane creek Cronomax wheels
Bottom Line:
I've beat the crap out of this bike and it keeps going strong, I've upgraded every part of this bike except the frame and the fork. This bike is able to be riden hard and it races like a champ. You can't get a better bike for the money. Just change out the rings they are horrible and cause serious chain suck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: October 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
stiff, light, XTR rear, great climber
Weaknesses:
seat (replacing soon), tires, cranks, pedals
Similar Products Used:
RM Oxygen Race
Bike Setup:
stock except for risers, Rock Shox Sid XC, Raceface seatpost, cranks, and stem, Panaracer Fire XC's, Ritchey clipless
Bottom Line:
A sweet bike for a really sweet deal. Awesome all around bike. Surprisingly I didn't find the seat that bad, but now it creaks everytime I pedal (very annoying), so I'll be replacing it soon. It climbs and descends great. Sometimes the descents can be a bit punishing on the body because of the stiffness of the frame.
My brother liked the bike so much that he bought a 2000 model.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from Ames, IA, USA Date Reviewed: October 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$700.00
Strengths:
Frame, XTR Rear, Avid 25s
Weaknesses:
StrongArm Crank, Seat
Bottom Line:
This bike is great, an excellent value for the money. This is the first suspension for me, so I think it's great, but have no grounds for comparison. The XTR rear derailleur is awesome. The crankset is okay, but very touchy to get the shifter adjusted just right. I changed out the killer seat for a Body Geometry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a
from guilford CT USA Date Reviewed: October 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
one i ride on
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
zanes
Strengths:
lightweight, stiff, fast, will do anything, wheels never lose their true,
Weaknesses:
???????? i ride this thing every day hard and i've never had problems with chain suck, anyone who has should learn how to shift.
Bike Setup:
easton monkey lite ct2 carbon xc riser bar, bontrager revolt super x(highly recomended) Wilderness trail bikes seat,
Bottom Line:
Trash the seat and the tires but definitely buy this bike if you need an awesome race/trail bike at a good price. For this price nothing else compares
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from Mass Date Reviewed: July 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bald Hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Geometry, Geometry, Geometry. This bike keeps the rear tire on the dirt at all times. Climbing on this bike is a blast.
Weaknesses:
Some creaking
Bike Setup:
XTR/XT Judy XC,
Bottom Line:
I owned a chromo Stumpjumper years back, and that was great. Like an idiot, I sold it to get a Cannondale. Just got the M2, and I love it. It's very responsive and climbs like squirrel. I'm not a big fan of Specialized tires, so I'll be changing those soon. Other than that, this bike fits me like a glove!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stiffler
a Downhiller
from Canada Eh Date Reviewed: July 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Green Room
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The Frame's great. Super strong. Responsive. Light.
Weaknesses:
All the Parts are Crap except the XTR and Manitou. They all keep breaking. The paint is so cheap. It'll Chip if it's hit by a bug.
Similar Products Used:
Some Rockey's, Oh yeah! Some Konas, Not to shabby. Raliegh, Blah.
Bike Setup:
Beefy tires. Riser Bar.
Bottom Line:
Not much of a freeride bike. But I'm still trying. Everything will break if you do drops. Sept the Frame. Looks pretty damn good set up like a freerider. Everythings even if your just racin too. Damn specialized and their crappy components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Gilinsky
a Weekend Warrior
from Omaha, Nebraska Date Reviewed: July 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Platte River
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lightweight - Great positioning - Weird feeling that you can climb any hill.
Weaknesses:
Cranks
Similar Products Used:
Came from a '94 Diamond Back. Still a great bike.
Bike Setup:
stock except for endbars
Bottom Line:
I thought "chainsuck" was a label for some lame porn star. I'd never heard the word before. Trust me, I know it know. Had my baby in three times in 7 weeks. The bike shop replaced by crank set the first time because of the CS problem, second was for a new rim and third time was too embrassing to mention.
Got this bike for $800 because it was a "last years" model. I do love it, though. This is my first real mountain bike, as I got into the sport only 11 months ago. I hate being such an amateur, but this bike helps make up for it, a little.
Bike Rack let me test it for a day or two at my favorite trails and I got up hills on the first try, when I couldn't get up them before. Very pleased with this purchase. Only 4 chili's because of the crank problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: June 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything technical and fast
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Amazing bike, fully loaded race ready components, perfect XC racing bike. (Also used for alot of downtown stair jumping!)
Weaknesses:
Buy the bike but then right away put a Body Geomatry seat on it it perfects this bike and Maybe some riser bars.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing Compares!!!!!!!
Bike Setup:
The fork rules, the frame is the best, I also Installed Kore Riser bars and a Body Geomatry seat.
Bottom Line:
If you buy this bike promise one thing.... THAT YOU"LL RIDE THE HELL OUT OF IT LIKE IT SHOULD BE RIDEN!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: May 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
pigeon river
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame,Weight,componet mix,overall fit and finish.
Weaknesses:
Whats up with the chain suck???
Similar Products Used:
cannondale,gt,trek,gary fisher.
Bike Setup:
stock, xt front,xtr rear.
Bottom Line:
Wow, the best bike I've ever rode,hands down! This thing climbs great and handles like a dream. The more I ride it, the more I like it. The only problem I've had with it is chain suck. I've taken it back to the dealer twice, the first time they worked on the front derailer but that didn't fix it so they replaced the middle chainring and chain. The front shock(Manitou SX) seems a little too firm,I adjusted it as much as I can and its a little softer,but I like my old Marzochi better. The bottom line is you can't go wrong with this bike. Buy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a Cross Country Rider
from Glenside, PA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2000
Frequent chain-suck, factory seat is a ballbuster.
Similar Products Used:
'94 Rockhopper Comp (rigid), '91 Hard Rock Sport
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for added bar ends and Avocet M80 saddle
Bottom Line:
After riding two other lower-level Specialized MTBs for nearly 10 years, it was my detiny to get a Stumpjumper. My first foray into both clipless pedals and front suspension (a dedicated stiffy, I was). Got this for $300 off list at the end of the year, but it still would be a deal at full list price. This is the best climing bike I've ever ridden. Aside from the strange tendency toward chain suck (seen it posted here in other reviews), this bike is a winner. Handles responsively, is very light, yet strong enough to take a pounding -- I weigh 190 and ride hard on some gnarly PA trails. When I take the FS plunge, it'll be on another Specialized.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tj
a Racer
from wilton Date Reviewed: May 7, 2000
Submitted by
ryan
a Racer
from alberta Date Reviewed: April 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
the on i made
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
everything, the bike kicks a$$ man.
Weaknesses:
THE CRANKS, those son of strong arm specialized trash they got on ther got to go.
Similar Products Used:
kona kula, kona explosif, kona ku
Bike Setup:
marzocchi z2 atom bomb, syncross bb, raceface headset, race face riser,
Bottom Line:
THE BIKE KICKS A$$ MAN you will love it. the only thing is you should try and get the shop to change the cranks before you take it , they should do it for little price., cause specialized wont warrenty those ones but its a sweet bike man
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pace Koenig
a Weekend Warrior
from Chapel Hill, NC, USA Date Reviewed: April 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
CHHS Trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Everything that isn't a weakness can be considered a strength. But a few strengths that I feel are worth noting are its insane ability to climb almost any hill, the XTR rear, and its incredible frame wiegiht and geometry.
Weaknesses:
1)Not 24 hours after I bought the bike the chainrings had broken. This wasn't very comforting, considering I'd just payed more than one thousand dollars for a bike. But they replaced all three chain rings the next day with better ones at no charge. 2)The seat that came with the bike is indestructible and looks great, but I speak for my sperm when I say that a more comfortable or anatomical seat would be a HUGE addition to this bike. 3)The tires were wonderful for the first three weeks of riding, but now they seem more suited for a road race than a day out on the singletrack. When I get new tires I'll check into some more durable ones. 4)The wheels look great and weigh next to nothing, but after a few trips over the local set of jumps I actually managed to bend each rim on separate occasions. I'm not sure whether I don't know how to land jumps in a softer manner or I shouldn't ride larger jumps like those with a bike like this anyway. 5)I also noticed a strange clicking sound in the bottom bracket. It usually makes the sound when the cranks are parrallel with the ground and I jump down on the pedals. I hope it never breaks, but if it does I hope my warranty will cover it. 6)If I land a large dropoff, sometimes I hear the tire rub against the bottom of the fork because the shock compresses too much. I have experimented with the settings on the fork with dissappointing results. I weigh 160 lbs so I shouldn't be the problem either.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the new chainrings
Bottom Line:
Dont get me wrong, this is a wonderful bike, I just think that some constructve criticism is usually helpful. If I could buy the bike over again or choose a different bike, there would be no doubt in my mind that I would be out on the trails with my Stumpjumper Comp the next day. To follow up on the shock-tire problem, I was reading MB Action a little while back and noticed a small column that talked about this very same problem. Apparently, if you decided to go to bigger tires, the shock will crunch down on the tire and stop the tire in its tracks. As for the rider, an full endo can be expected. Answer said they were aware of the problem and if you call their customer support up they can send you some new components(no charge) that you put in your shock and the problem goes away. I ordered the kit and expected to wait for three weeks but it was in my mailbox two days later. The reason Answer left these components out of the shock was to increase the travel if ever so slightly, so I opted to keep the travel and save the components for later. But if I do go to bigger tires, you wont see me doing any endos. At least any due to shock/tire problems. So if you want bigger tires on your 99 stumpy comp, I would strongly encourage you to call Answer. I know that sounds like a lot of problems for just one bike, but I would say that I was just being thorough. If you buy a bike anytime soon, dont forget to buy this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
damon
a Weekend Warrior
from olympia, wa Date Reviewed: April 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any where in capital forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame is strong and light. Agile in tight singletrack.
Weaknesses:
chainsuck(almost every ride)! hard seat(ouch)! loose bb(after only 6 mo). crank spider incompatability.
also not specialized related, but i stripped the preload adjustor on the shock......upgraded to yellow elastomers.
Similar Products Used:
older 94 rockhopper fs with rock shock... a little older 92 rockhopper comp(rigid).....and even older 88 hardrock.
Bike Setup:
Stock...but didnt the product catalog say the front shock was a manitou SX-R?
Bottom Line:
Didnt score a closeout deal but I feel that I got good value for the $ I spent. xtr rear is nice but id like to see a little more even set-up. I will soon upgrade the parts that give me trouble and ill be set! Ive always been loyal to the big S and am happy with my latest 2 wheeler.....5 chilis for value but 4 from the above mentioned weakness.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Bitondo
a Cross Country Rider
from Littleton,Colorado Date Reviewed: March 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Colorado trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Sweet frame,components,light,strong and fast
Weaknesses:
Rock hard seat,lx front deraileur
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock with 2000 XT Hollowtech cranks and XT front Deraileur.Bontrager seat
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Due to the reviews on this site ,I had the shop change the cranks,front deraileur,and seat before I picked it up.No chain suck.Shifts flawlessly.I'm replacing the stock wheels with an XTR/WTB laserbeam setup.From reading the reviews,the stock Mavic 221 wheels worry me but have stayed true so far...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joey Piraino
a Weekend Warrior
from Balto,MD Date Reviewed: March 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Avalon P.S.P
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great bang for the buck. Got mine for 850.00 Good frame geometry. Decent parts mix .Killer climber
Weaknesses:
Chain suck. Skinny bars with only 3degree bend. Forced to use "Specialized" rings (non shimano sized spider)
Similar Products Used:
92 M2 S WORKS
Bike Setup:
Michilin tires,Easton E70 riser bars,LX cranks.
Bottom Line:
I doubt you'll find a better bike in the sub 1k range. If you do let me know. Despite some of the litle problems I've seen with the bike I'd buy one again. This bike suits my aggressive riding style. I push this bike HARD and it doesn't cry.......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ali
a Cross Country Rider
from Vienna, Virginia USA Date Reviewed: March 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Patapsco State Park, MD
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I have been riding this bike for a year. I do a lot of *hardcore* trail riding and epic rides, this bike impresses me every ride... it is a solid performer, is light, great parts mix, and a great deal...
Weaknesses:
my crank arm fell off the first night but, was due to poor contstruction by shop employees, not a design flaw. i too hear a clicking in the bottom bracket sometimes... but over all it is solid, and of course, eventually with enough extra cash you can slowly upgrade the crank/wheels/other componentes, but i have raced it several times, and w/ the stump i can kick it with the 'best' of them...
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher, paragon-- heavy 99 rockhopper-- cool, but stump is better deal. a 1984 'dukes of hazzard' edition Big wheel =)
This bike is sweet, all and all a great deal, lighter than most other comparable bikes, and the manitou fork is plush and smooth as butter, "microlube" port is really convenient... it is also a really rigid fork... The frame is very comfortable, aggressive geometry... great for the technical stuff...
*light *solid frame *you get the best bang for your buck $$$ *you'll love it...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joey
a Racer
from Avondale, PA USA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Little Egypt loop @ Fair Hill MD
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame is stong and stiff and the geometry puts you in a good position to climb.
Weaknesses:
Chainrings stink ( too much chainsuck ), Manitou fork could be better.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Everything with the exception of bar-ends.
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great value. I got mine for $400 dollars off since it was a year-end model. You should definatley get this bike if you are interested in the sport of mountain biking and are looking for a great value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Weekend Warrior
from Alpharetta, Ga Date Reviewed: March 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Tsahli
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame,xtr rear,shock
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Ziggurat, Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
Stock but I had the bike shop change out the seat and replaced the long stem with a Bontrager stem off of a Fisher because of reviews I read here. Thanks people.
Bottom Line:
Just got this bike after a long search for a high end affordable hardtail. Would like to thank the people that reviewed it here, it helped my decision and I knew what to change. This bike climbs like a billy goat on steriods, I am making it up some technical hills I used to walk. Frame is very light and XTR changes smooth as silk and lightning fast. Manitou can take a pounding and seems more maintenance friendly than the Judy's on comparable bikes. Bottom line, I love it, Specialized stole a customer for life away from Gary Fisher.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst, NY Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fischer Big Sur, Paragon Trek 7000, 8000 & 8500
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
So far, I love this bike. What a value for the money. It's quick & responsive, climbs & decends with little or no effort. It makes you feel like you're in command of any type of terrain you desire to ride on. Words cannot describe. Definately recommend this bike to everyone. 5 Flamin' Chilis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jessop
a Downhiller
from Duluth MN Date Reviewed: March 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Nice Frame, XTR, great value, not too heavy, paid less than retail
Weaknesses:
I've experienced quite a bit of chain suck, the chain rings and cranks are weak, I need a longer travel fork (personal preferance), stem is too long for me, rims loose their shape too easy, seat is not man friendly, that's all!
Similar Products Used:
tried out a pro and an 8500
Bottom Line:
I liked the Specializeds better and the comp felt just as good as the pro (exept the pro's shock was a little bit nicer) and I figured I could upgrade to pro spec or better when the time came plus I couldn't see spending the extra money for such a similar bike. The only thing that really bugs me about this bike is the tremendous chain suck; the pounding on the cranks/chain rings could have been avoided had I not wanted try to pull of stupid descents over sharp rocks (oh well). Oh yeah, its a really good bike for the money!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roy
a Weekend Warrior
from Raleigh Date Reviewed: February 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lake Crabtree
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
cranks/wheelset/stock stem was a little long (for me anyway)
Similar Products Used:
NONE
Bike Setup:
lx front dr/xt rear dr/mavic 517 with xt hubs/
Bottom Line:
This is an excellent bike. My only complaint with it was having to replace the cranks less than 6 months after buying it. It seems I am the only on to have had this problem. They kept bending, being 150lbs there is no reason this should happen. Otherwise this is the best bike i have owned.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
robert
a Cross Country Rider
from n.conway, nh Date Reviewed: February 14, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
strong, light(but not too light) frame, good components, excellent looks, great color(black w/yellow highlights)
Weaknesses:
none i've found
Similar Products Used:
'93 stumpjumper comp-rigid
Bike Setup:
stock '97 with full xt, lx hubs and bb, avid brakes; team edition tires, ride-on cables, profile bar-ends
Bottom Line:
best bike around for the money. newer models skimp a bit on components(specialized hubs and bb, aluminum stays)but still give good value for the money. perfectly balanced for comfort and handling,as well as climbing and descending. climbs better than me. seat is fine for me, shifts effortlessly(try the ride-ons-they are great for downtube routed cables, love the avids, team edition tires are sooo supple. plan to replace lx bb with xt, and strongarm cranks with cold-forged version. bike is light, but not too light for my 220 out of shape pounds. a perfect bike for the woods.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rolf
a Cross Country Rider
from Holland Date Reviewed: February 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any tasty singletrack
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Magnificant frame; very responsive ride; just love it everytime I go for a ride...
Weaknesses:
Bottom bracket failed (replaced under warranty); Mavic 221 wheels not all that great; Judy XC fork a bit on the heavy side
Excellent value for money. Ride is absolutely GREAT! Climbs superb. True singletrack lover... It gives me so much joy whether I go for a quick spin through the local woods or a 4 hour death march in rain and hub-deep mud. It has been so good to me for the past 2 years. I think I'll have this bike for a long, long time to come. Definitely worth buying.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken Waring
a Racer
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: January 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Durham Forest
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I bought my bike for $1,400CDN and cannot say enough about the bike. It would be common to pay $1,800CDN for this bike depending upon what time of the year you buy. I race almost every weekend and ride a lot during the week. The rapid rise rear has shifted perfectly which surprised me given the negative publicity the product has received. Now that I have tried the rapid rise I don't want to go back to regular. I like the fact I can shift to an easier gear when rapidly braking down a tough hill in preparation for the rise up the other side. I have never had a bike that has stayed tuned as well as this one. I added quality bar ends. I find the bike has a very comfortable riding position that has allowed for extremely long rides (up to seven hours). The bike accelerates well because of the stiff frame and I like the way it climbs.
Weaknesses:
The rear brake mount became loose and the frame needed to be replaced. I was riding again in 3 days thanks to my local bike shop (Dukes Cycle) having another frame in stock.
As soon as I bought the bike, I replaced the seat -- ouchy.
Halfway through the season I had to have the rear wheel respoked because the spokes were starting to fatigue and snap. I expected this given I weigh 195lbs.
I had to have the bottom bracket replaced because it started to make noise. This was done under warranty.
I switched to more aggressive tires based on my personal preference.
Bike Setup:
Stock. As I wore out parts I upgraded slightly. The low initial cost of the bike left me lots of cash for upgrades.
Bottom Line:
I cannot say enough good things about this bike. It offers an incredible balance between cost and performance/weight. On top of that the colour is great.
I raced it a few times at the beginning of the season and felt the ride was too harsh. Articles I read (before buying the bike) indicate this frame is very stiff and therefore a little less forgiving. I added a suspension seat post to the bike to take the edge off and have never looked back.
I bought this bike because my previous expience was with a Proflex 857 full suspension and I wanted to try a bike that was lighter and possibly more responsive. When this is combined with the low price (for a race ready bike) it was an easy decision to buy this bike.
I would buy this bike again and have recommended it to my friends one of whom bought the S-Works after riding my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brant Kirk
a Cross-Country Rider
from Klamath Falls, OR Date Reviewed: January 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
lightweight, climbs well, great geometry
Weaknesses:
chainstay broke on the drive side
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Montare
Bottom Line:
I rode this bike hard for two years with no problems whatsoever, until the chainstay broke. It was a 97, I took it to a local shop and they immediately ordered me a new frome from Specialized at no charge. That was over three weeks ago and I am still waiting, at least my Fisher is still in one peice or I would be totally pissed off about this time delay. If the new frame rides as well as the old one I would say five chilis, but since it is not here yet I have to give it three because of downtime.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Racer
from Lake titikaka Date Reviewed: December 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the one I ride
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame, Componetnts, Sids rule. excellent handling
Weaknesses:
cranks loosen often
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
stock with SID's
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks ass. other than the cranks I have had few problems. I ride many technical trails and this bike handles them magnifico
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: December 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Noanet/Hale
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Handling Weight Nice component mix
Weaknesses:
Bizarre propensity for chain suck
Bike Setup:
Completely stock
Bottom Line:
Even with the chainsuck I love this bike. Specialized has a customer for life. I feel invincible riding this nicely tuned, lightweight, good handling machine. Even with an intermittent chainsuck problem. Sorry, did I mention the chainsuck? Anyhow, once I get the chainsuck fixed and upgrade some of the LX components to XT or XTR this bike will be as near a perfect specimen of mountainitus bikis as you will find anywhere. When the sorry day comes that I have to replace this great bike, I am sure that it will be another Specialized that takes its place on the wall in my dining room (who needs to eat in the dining room - it's for BIKES!!)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross-Country Rider
from Eagle River, AK Date Reviewed: December 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Variety technical
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Price, weight, XTR, they didn't put those stupid bar ends on, decent fork (Judy XC), looks
No mods since buying it except typical upkeep (drivetrain, service fork). Tires were a little low profile so I switched to GEAX warp and hook. XT front, XTR rear, Judy XC.
Bottom Line:
Great engineering. This bike accelerates and climbs like a demon. The price is right. It responds great in tight spots. Nothing's perfect, though. 4 flamers.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cliff Long
a Racer
from Penticton,BC Date Reviewed: December 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Chip Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light, xtr rear derailleur,light,handles like a dream in tight fast places.
stock with Sun Rhynolite rims and club roost riser bar,specialized team tires.
Bottom Line:
Went from a stumpjumper fsr xc comp into this hardtail, goes up hill three gears higher!! Loves to race. Nine speed chains wear too quickly and the mavics didn't last one race, but you can't fault the bike for these problems. AWESOME bike, now I want to get an M4 ... !!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Douglas Holtz
a Cross-Country Rider
from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: October 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Slick Rock Moab///Lutsen MN
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame, stiff and quick, great for handeling :)
Weaknesses:
Chain suck!!!!!! Bottom Pull :( Seat can be painfull
Bike Setup:
Full XTR Group Chris King headset Raceface Turbine Raceface Stem Raceface BB Answer Hyperlite Bar/Ends Answer Grips Ritchey Logic Clippless Manitou Stroker (SXTI 80mm)
Bottom Line:
This is a great ride!!!!! Chain suck was a problem, but with a Raceface BB and the adjustable chainline it was easily fixed. This frame handles great, spectacular for racing, and felt great during the 24 hours of Afton!!!!! I would suggest getting rid of all the stock parts and just keeping the frame and wheels if you can afford it. I bought it just for the kick ass blue frame.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Hayward, CA Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
10 Hills Lake Chabot
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The frame, forks, the drive train, climbs and decends are real sweet and the price.
Weaknesses:
the tires (too many flat tires) no bar ends the chain stay gets chewed up
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Big Sur, Rockhopper, others I am too embarassed to mention...
Bike Setup:
99 Stock
Bottom Line:
I just started Mtn Bking, and this bike makes it too easy. I have tried just about everything with it, except muddy trails. This is not a bike for the streets. I ride with my kids around town, but long for the dirt and trails the whole time I am on the pavement. I would give it 10 hot hots but they wont let me. I love this ride, and it looks like I not the only one. I was 286 lbs. when I first bought the bike, (now 260) I was sure my weight would brake it that it could not hold my weight, but the bike broke me first and it is not showing any stress from my size. I did have to get diff elastemer for the forks so it would not feel spoungy. Hey big boys you can ride this bike and you will love it. Infact I saw a guy 1 1/2 times bigger than me riding a 97 and it still looked great.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
prairiedoc
a Weekend Warrior
from flatlands Date Reviewed: September 29, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Weaknesses:
NONE
Bike Setup:
Syncros stem Speedplay Frog pedals RF Turbines and Rings XT front derailleur and shifters
Bottom Line:
This is a follow-up to my review in April. Since then, I've ridden this bike almost 1500 miles through all sorts of crap. Even tested it on the World Cup course in Canmore and the Pan Am Course in Manitoba. Aside from the stock BB which now clicks annoyingly, have had no problems. This is definitely the best bike I've owned...in fact I'll probably stick with Specialized when it comes time for a full suspension bike!!! If I could, I would give this bike 10 flamers.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Hill
a Cross-Country Rider
from Santa Clarita, CA Date Reviewed: September 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Pinos
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
climbs great, light weight, cool orange paint
Weaknesses:
Narrow handlebars, hard saddle, sketchy handling
Similar Products Used:
GT Zaskar LE
Bike Setup:
My other bike is a '96 GT LTS-1
Bottom Line:
the handlebars were way too narrow, and the rapid rise (backwards) front shifter took some getting used to (still), but overall a great, dependable, solid hardtail. The saddle will absolutely ruin you on a long ride, so wear thick shorts
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Tangner
a Weekend Warrior
from Pismo Beach, CA Date Reviewed: September 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Peak/Chumash
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lively frame.Great fork. Reasonable weight. Hooks up great on the climbs, equally good on the decents.
Weaknesses:
Saddle way too hard.
Similar Products Used:
None. Liked it as soon as I rode it.
Bike Setup:
Replaced saddle. Put on my old Selle Italia. Put my old wheel set on-Bontragger rims, Ringle Supper Bubba front hub, XT rear, alloy nipples w/ butted spokes.
Bottom Line:
Great bike. The only problem I've discovered so far is the saddle, but I fixed that after my first ride. Hooks up great on steep, loose climbs. Decends really well. Stiff, but not overly harsh.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Muad Dib
a Weekend Warrior
from Northern Georgia Date Reviewed: September 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mountain
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great frame. The bike tracks well. Overall, a GREAT package for the price.
Weaknesses:
seat, chainrings
Bike Setup:
Stock bike with an after market seat. Soon to have new chain rings too!
Bottom Line:
The seat is like sitting on the head of an axe.I experienced chain suck from day 1. The middle and small chainrings are LOUSY. Lots of burrs. Don't bother riding with them. Just replace them and throw them in the recycling bin or try to re-sell them on Ebay! The LBS says my chain is fine, but the chainrings need replacement. Gotta be a quality control issue for Specialized.Otherwise this bike would get 5 burning horses!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Kelly
a Racer
from Notre Dame, IN Date Reviewed: September 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Dr. Lawless in Michigan
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good Price, Nice Frame, Components
Weaknesses:
None yet, have not gotten out and raced yet.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F500, Cannondale F4000
Bottom Line:
Unlike cannondale they provided adequate components for the money
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Osiowy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Regina, Canada Date Reviewed: September 4, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Roots@Buffalo Pound Prov. Park
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great bang for the buck Sweet shifting Great shock As good as more expen$ive bikes
Weaknesses:
The crankarm fell off in its first race (3 days after purchase), now the cranks creak horribly
Similar Products Used:
Demo'd GT Avalanche Old ride: '97 Trek 6000
Bike Setup:
Switched to Ritchey prolite seat, Michelin Sprint rear tire and Specialized Team Control Front tire
Bottom Line:
What a step up! The XTR/LX setup is a real step up from Alivio! The Manitou is as sweet as syrup and as smooth as butter. The weight is reasonable, I wouldn't mind dropping it, as my old rigid Trek weighed the same. But my old ride, a rigid Alum. bike, was built for a masochist. As far as Specialized vs. GT Avalanche, I tested both and the Specialized had a better frame (American-made M2 vs. Taiwanese Alum.) and the GT had a better fork (Z2 BAM vs. SX). However, the weight difference was 1.5 lbs. in the Specialized's favor, and the Manitou was pretty damn good, and the Specialized was $200 less, so I bought the Stumpy, despite buying it from an inferior shop. The right choice? Well, the crankarm falling off 3 days after purchase really pissed me off, but the performance is great, except for the creaky cranks. Maybe I'll just have to do an upgrade, who knows? But my Stumpjumper is a sweet ride, despite my initial bad luck.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtb rider
a Weekend Warrior
from northern va Date Reviewed: September 3, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE ROCKS!!! EVERYTHING ABOUT IT IS AWESOME!! IVE HAD NO PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER WITH IT!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kro
a Cross-Country Rider
from Duluth MN Date Reviewed: August 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
rooty and rocky ones
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
great componentsnice framenice forkgreat value
Weaknesses:
bar ends?seat is NOT for me
Similar Products Used:
nothin' really
Bike Setup:
stock 99
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money, I havn't had any problems. It's fast, climbs great, and I won't have to upgrade much.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Capt. Insano
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Paul, MN Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the muddy one
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light, stiff, quiet frame. Great stock components (XTR r.d., Avids, Rapidfires). Rides fast and responsive - good feeling of control over this bike.
Weaknesses:
1.9 tires roll faster than 2.1's I'm used to, but seem a little thin.... Seat is uncomfortable. Unusual to see cables along bottom of bike? A little worried about them seizing up with mud, but no probs so far. No bar ends. Fork is disc compatible, but frame is not... (no big deal for me)
Similar Products Used:
Switched from GT Backwoods (not exactly a bike in same class, but the only other I've spent much time on...)
Bike Setup:
Stock. Manitou SX fork. Added Onza bar ends. New saddle may be in the future...
Bottom Line:
This bike is a ton of fun - light, fast, responsive, solid, and good looking. Great for barreling through tight singletrack in woods and all around XC. About the best all around FS package you can get for under a grand without resorting to mailorder. I'd give it 4 and a half, but I'll settle by rounding up to five.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Travis
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ontario Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Kalopour
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Amazing climber Stiff frame Manitou is smooth
Weaknesses:
Q.R. seat color
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8500 G.F. Ziggurat/Paragon GT Avalanch
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for xc raceing or riding. It is super smooth on the ruff stuff and climbs better than anything else I have test ridden. The best out there for the price.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hum
a Weekend Warrior
from Baltimore Date Reviewed: August 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
DONT PUT A BOXER OR ANY DOUBLE OR TRIPLE CLAMP FORKS ON THIS BIKE UNLESS YOU WANNA BUY A NEW FRAME! Great bike by the way.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Downhill Dude
a Downhiller
from Colorado Date Reviewed: August 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great Descender
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Everything
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Boxxer, Stock Components
Bottom Line:
Put a Boxxer on this bike and keep up with the best of em. Yes a hardtail! Five chilies for this mother.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doc
a Cross-Country Rider
from Fitchburg Date Reviewed: July 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Strong, light frame Good Components Fast Great Climber
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
GT Tequesta GT Timberline
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike! Just bought it today after an intense search. Loved it as soon as I tested it. All components are high-end, bike is light and climbs really well. Rips up the single-track. After learning on a heavy hardtail w/ no suspension, this is like riding on air. Got it for $800...too good to resist. Definitely worth 5 steaming piles of cr@p - I'd give it six if I could on squeeze another one out!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Stoklosa
a Cross-Country Rider
from Overland Park, KS Date Reviewed: July 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The metal matrix frame is strong and efficient for any terrain and not too heavy.
Weaknesses:
I don't like Shimano's Rear Derailer or Rapid Fire Shifter, I prefer SRAM.
Similar Products Used:
My other bike frame is composed of titanium, so I haven't tried anything very similar.
Bottom Line:
The latest Stumpjumper Comp is the perfect off- road companion, durable, solid, and original. I enjoy mine very much
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Timur
a Weekend Warrior
from Almaty Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light, stiff&strong great frame - nice climber and very respondent! Good crankset, well adjustable fork. Avid brakes work well.
Weaknesses:
This narrow hard saddle is not me. Jelly grips, weak pedals, no barends. Cable housing - it looks like in winter time they will not work. No disc mounts on frame.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000, Giant XtC Se1
Bike Setup:
Basic setup - I only changed pedals for Shimano 747, saddle - for Specialized Body Geometry Comp, grips - for Ritchey, added CODA barends, Lizzard skin chain guard.
Bottom Line:
Actually all these bikes are great for about $1200 - choose any which fits you well. I bought Stumpy and I love it - already 900 km enjoyable riding 1st month. Maybe change wheelset next year and buy full-suspension FSR! Give it 5 red hots for now!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
herbert talley
a Weekend Warrior
from wichita,ks Date Reviewed: July 22, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
the basic bike setup it real nice. it handles and shift great when i bought it. corners awsome and i have full trust in the bike on rides
Weaknesses:
tires are a little thin for me. flat tires were numerous until i added a liner. the weight was a little more than i wanted and the seat was hard as a rock.
Bike Setup:
i added a new seat of course and some liners for the tires but everything else is stock.
Bottom Line:
for the price, a great bike. it pretty much race ready when i bought it. never had second thoughts.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from St. Paul, Minnesota Date Reviewed: July 1, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This bike is light! I've never owned a lighter bike, so that's a plus in it's self. Handling is nimble and exact. Climbs like nothing else. Frame is stiff, and the geometry holds the intended line.
Weaknesses:
Cranks/rings are poor. In middle ring, the chain rubs the large ring rivits. I've replaced the chain once due to extrem chain suck. The rear shifter needs to be replaced already. The wheels go out of true easily. The seat harder then necessary.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpy FSR comp, GT Avalanche
Bike Setup:
Spin wheelset, Raptor 1.9 F, Team Master R. everything else, stock
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is, this bike is totaly tricked out for the cash. I am surprised that specialized would slap on suck crapy cranks, and it will be one of the next upgrades. This bike climbs extreamly well. Mega 9 helps out, but it's more the bike that is the cause. I've noticed I don't use the granny gear as much, if ever, on rides. Overall, I would recomend this bike to anyone looking for a light weight bike with tricked out components for the cash. kodos to you specialized for a sweet ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesse
a Weekend Warrior
from Boulder, Colorado Date Reviewed: June 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
That one!
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame (rocks/bomb proof) fork brakes awsome crank well about every thing
Weaknesses:
nothing to report
Similar Products Used:
This bike is in a league of its own.
Bike Setup:
Stock Parts, Controll Tech bar ends, Odessy pedals.
Bottom Line:
This bike is an awsome bike. You could not go wrong. Well the frame like I said above is bomb proof. This bike also climbs like a mother. The shock is nice but not my top choice. I thing I am going to put a Z2 BAM on there. The shifters work wounderful. The reer derailer works well better than LX and XT derailers. But over all this is a great buy. If you are looking for a cool awsome bike buy this one.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark M
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington, dc Date Reviewed: June 29, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
frame is great . . . real stiff
Weaknesses:
i was riding down the middle of the street . . . no obstacles in view and then bam. all of the sudden the front wheel siezed . . . the spokes sheared off the hub and the brakes locked. i was going fast and i flipped (360) and luckily bounced off my head to land on my feet. so to say the least i am not impressed. a few weeks before this incident i was cranking down my real wheel skewer and it friking broke off. i have never had as many problems with a bike. i dropped the cash and now the damn bike is dropping me. i should have bought a huffy. specialized needs to make sure the stuff they equip their frames with is quality. and why does the specialized crank only have four damn screws . . . you can only replace the chainrings with specialized . . . nice move
Bike Setup:
had a marzocchi z2 bam everything else was stock
Bottom Line:
good bike , i guess, maybe i was just unlucky . . . i sincerely hope that was the case
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Wager
a Cross-Country Rider
from Highlands Ranch, CO Date Reviewed: June 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
White Ranch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Climbs great, great frame
Weaknesses:
LBS has replaced front hub, rear wheel skewer and head set (All under Warranty). Slight chain suck problem.
Bike handles great on up and downhills (much better than the rider). Other than the problems with some of the Specialize parts, which were all replace under warranty, I highly recommend the bike. I intend to replace the Bulletproof pedals with Shimano 545's or 636's.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joey
a Cross-Country Rider
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
see bottom
Weaknesses:
see bottom
Similar Products Used:
see bottom
Bike Setup:
see bottom
Bottom Line:
there is a correction, the review under this one should say doesn't make any noise not does, Thanks.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joey
a Cross-Country Rider
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Price, Components, Climbs great, feels great and the pro elite geometry made for racing. I also like the Metal Matrix because it does make noise even under heavy stress.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Klein Attitude Race Klein Attitude Comp Gary Fisher Paragon
Bike Setup:
Stock 1999 Stumpjumper M2 Comp
Bottom Line:
The Kleins or the Fisher just didn't feel good or have the component line up for the price, this is the first bike I've found that I love the feel, it is very tight, quick, and responsive. If your looking to spend around 1000 be sure and look at this, and be sure to ride it, thats where I was sold.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alvin
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: June 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Nisene Marks, Santa Crz
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Stiff frame, excellent handling, quick
Weaknesses:
paint chip, seems less sturdy than similar frames, could use new branding name
Okay, here's the story. I re-entered the MTB scene about three years after I initially got into it in college in beautiful Riverside, CA. Rode around in my sister's KHS Montana in the Chino Hills Trails. I liked it, but never got into it. Anyway, fastforward to 98 and I hit upon mtbr.com. I'm hooked again and this time for good. After tirelessly re-educating myself on the sport I pick up a used 97 19 Stumpjumper Comp all stock for $400 bucks. Unbelievable buy, but I couldn't control myself. I kept upgrading it to the point that I landed a 96 GT Zaskar LE frame for $160 and $300 for a 98 SID fork. With all the other ancillary pieces I used to upgrade this bike, I ended up spending over $1,000. Anyway, the Zaskar stinks! I've had to replace the rear d hangar twice due to drivetrain compatibility issues. It's also heavier than the Stumpy. Anyway, I now live in SF and I've found another deal on a 98 Stumpy for $170 and I am going back as fast as I can. Love this ride and it loves me!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chaz
a Cross-Country Rider
from amherst, ma Date Reviewed: June 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
mt. lincoln
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
climbs and sprints like a goat on speed, very affordable and very raceable while still being a great bike to trail ride on, comfortable, stiff, light
Weaknesses:
none except for the sticky seat tube. i use the stock ritchey seatpost, and maybe thats what's screwing everything up, but it's a bitch to move up and down
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher hoo koo e koo(steel)
Bottom Line:
i bought the frame only and fixed it up with a manitou sx-r fork, avid 2.0 brakes which i think i are way better than shimano. the avids have great modulation and are low maintenence once set up properly. xt derailleurs, lx shifters, a sweet easton riser bar, lx hubs matched to mavic 517 rims, and the bike weighs about 24 lbs. i'm still kinda pissed though that the frame has 7 ounces of paint, but the paint job is so sweet that its almost(ALMOST) worth it. there is no better bike to buy for the price. in fact, i'd reccomend buying the stumpjumper over alot of bikes that cost $1000 more. i'll give it 5 flaming chilli's only cuz i can't give it more. i love this bike. i love it
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
danoh
a Weekend Warrior
from NJ Date Reviewed: June 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The best design,looks,equip/gearing for the $$$
Weaknesses:
seat too small for my fatbutt
Similar Products Used:
Klein, Trek, Cannondale
Bike Setup:
Stumpy COMP-stock
Bottom Line:
A helluva grate bike;sweet looking and a class, smooth ride to boot!!!! Great climber and awesome controland handling!!! No question the best around for the $$$
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
E.T.
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Rafael, Ca. Date Reviewed: June 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Tam Rancho
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
good $ vlue lively frame lives up to actaul claimed wieght climbs like a goat sticks to single track like glue
Weaknesses:
saddle pedals top tube runs a little small
Similar Products Used:
fisher paragon bontrager rocky mountain kona
Bike Setup:
previous ride: old steel stumpy from 91
Bottom Line:
ok, still early and still getting adjusted, but so far a great ride with just a few modifications. looked at a bunch o bikes and still kept coming back to this one in terms of ride, weight and bang for the buck.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Hartford, CT Date Reviewed: June 9, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great Handling, Good Shock. Sweet Looking.
Weaknesses:
Too many gears, getting chain suck big time. Screwin up the paint job!!!!!!!
Bike Setup:
1999 Stock Setup.
Bottom Line:
Great Bike all around. I wont mention my last bike. Paint chips too easily. Rebound adjuster on Manitou SX-R fell off on the trail!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a Cross-Country Rider
from streetsville,ontario Date Reviewed: May 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
waterdown
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
great frame,rims,shock (w/firm ride kit)and brakes
Weaknesses:
killed pedals in 3 weeks went through 2 seats,so i upgraded.too many gears,getting chain suck
Similar Products Used:
rocky,norco,specialized
Bike Setup:
stock,but any bike you buy will be a compromise at any price.wish i had the m4.
Bottom Line:
just got the bike back,i rode it 21 days straight for 3 hours a day,and found the defects.can't wait to go to waterdown for ride number 2.i hope the bike can handle it this time.6 ft,220 lbs on a 19 frame can i ever go fast(too fast!)i even got it in silver not blue.i would give it 4 flamers but i have to compensate for the guys reviewing the older stumpers in this column!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Racer
from Ontario Date Reviewed: May 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
trails dont come with names
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
It looks nice when its clean, front hub is awesome
Weaknesses:
rims bend like your mother, lx hub bearings will last maybe 2 days if you ride pavement.Sxr bushings lasted for 4 hours of riding(i am serious!)God I hate richey pedals(they just suck) Stock tires(team control) are just a bit better than riding bare rims derailler hanger made from old pop cans
Similar Products Used:
Kona Muni-mula(hippy bike) KHS pro cannondale f2000
The bike works well but it needs to come with more durable parts like the derailler hanger but either than it is nice and I go fast on it wherever I might be
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wk
a Cross-Country Rider
from western MA Date Reviewed: May 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any and all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good components,great handling and climbing
Weaknesses:
Still looking
Similar Products Used:
Fisher,Trek
Bike Setup:
Stock 99 Stumpjumper Comp
Bottom Line:
For New England riding-ruts,roots,and rash,this bike kicks butt.Smokes on the ascents and loves hugging the singletrack.5 smoking piles for this beauty.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scooby Doo
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Every trail
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
My frame has three dents and still takes a beating. The frame is stiff, quick steerer, quick mover, and easy cornerer. What else do you want?
Weaknesses:
The frame is too stiff, the it's heavy on steep climbs and the paint chips off easily.
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche (With the Al frame) Marin Pine Trails
Bike Setup:
XTR gruppo, Prolong saddle.
Bottom Line:
This bike is an affordable clean bike. Better lock it up when you leave it. Can't say anything for the newer StumpJ's but ine is super.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
no-name-guy
a Cross-Country Rider
from calgary alberta Date Reviewed: May 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Similar Products Used:
Kona Expliosif Gt avalanche (chubby!!) Trek 8000 (it looks like a good deal) Jamis Dakota (where the hell do they sell THAT bike?!)
Bottom Line:
Im looking for a new hardtail and i was wondering if anyone knew the weight on the bike, could u please email me...Thanks!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Henning
a Weekend Warrior
from Norway Date Reviewed: May 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Very good descending, good climbing and speed
Weaknesses:
none, where I ride. (Much descending, roots, bushes and trees. A little similar to Canada). But in other terrains the tires can be a little too knobby.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
94 model, but the new ones are pretty similar. Fully LX, Magura Jhonny T's Mavic X 221's DH bars.
Bottom Line:
It is a great bike for both climbing and descending.(It is hardly any flats in Norway, so I haven't really tested it out in flat lane). I can only say that it is a great bike to ride. It can be raced, but is still comfortable. But I guess it must be mentioned that I'm 1,96 metres. So, if it feels comfortable, it is the bike for you.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
prairiedoc
a Weekend Warrior
from the flatlands Date Reviewed: April 24, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
great stock components; stiff frame; fast and nimble; great color
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose NX 7.1
Bike Setup:
XTR rear/XT front/XT shifters Race Face Turbines with 9 speed Race Rings
Bottom Line:
I have ridden this bike every day since I got it last month. It's a fast,comfortable ride, climbs well and is really nimble. Haven't really done much gnarly riding yet but I'm sure this bike will perform when the time comes (I only hope I do it justice with my mediocre riding skills!). I upgraded the front mech and the shifters to XT but I think the LX that come stock are just fine. The RF cranks are, of course, second to none; stiff and makes the bike even faster. Dirt Control/Master tires handle even the loosest, sandiest crap out here on the prairies. I highly recommend this bike to everyone. 5 flamin' Moes!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin Cina
a Cross-Country Rider
from Weston,CT Date Reviewed: April 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Frick all the way across and down
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Stiff as heck! components rock!
Weaknesses:
I need a downhill bike now.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Cannondale
Bike Setup:
99 Stumpjumper M2 COMP
Bottom Line:
Come on! Hit a fast, technical singletrack and you can't doubt this. Buying a hardtail? This is it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david
a Cross-Country Rider
from new york Date Reviewed: April 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
great components & fork, very lightweight, nice colors
Similar Products Used:
gt karakoram, fischer kai tai & big sur, trek 8000
Bike Setup:
stock '99
Bottom Line:
a (slight) disappointment. i owned a '96 aluminum stumpjumper A1 FS COMP and this ride felt pretty similar... the M2 frame is great and very light. it seems less responsive than the trek 8000 in every way i could compare, but as a runner up it is a sweet ride. i always hyped up the strongarm cranksets: effecient & strong. this is probably (still) one of the best balanced bikes you could own. long enough wheelbase to bomb downhill with the best-and the long stem helps set you up over the front tire to excel on singletrack. still check my review of trek 8000.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DougG
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: April 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000
Bottom Line:
I compared this bike to the Trek 8000, which is similarly spec'd and priced. The Stumpjumper is improved over last year, but it's really made for a tall rider. At 5'9 with short arms, I was too spread out. I had a more active ride on the Trek 8000 as it was lighter and fits a smaller rider better.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from East Bridgewater, MA Date Reviewed: April 3, 1999
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
Responsiveness Durability Frame Strength
Weaknesses:
None Little weak on climbing {Might be me though;)}
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche
Bottom Line:
Just bought the 1999, this is my second Stumpjumper, first was a rigid M2 that I put a Manitou Magnum on in '97. Loved my '97, handled all kinds of terrain well. Extremely durable, I am over 220#'s and I never had a problem with parts breqaking while jumping. Best bike for the money in my opinion ('99 color scheme is pretty cool too). Give it 5 red hots for me!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dan
a weekend warrior
from okc Date Reviewed: March 6, 1999
Bottom Line:
My girlfriend and I just got back from demoing this bike and thought it was a great bike. We both thought that this bike was a bit out of our price range evenafter being offered 999.00 out the door. We are new to this sport and don't want to jump in over our heads right away. It has an awesome component grouping that is well beyond our experience and riding ability so we passed for now. Never-the-less if it's in your $$ range and you compare it to other brands within that range you'll pick this one. If you don't e-mail me and tell me what you did pick and I'll make that one my next ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a cross-country rider
from Calgary, Canada Date Reviewed: February 18, 1999
Bottom Line:
This is by far the best bike that I have ever owned. it rides smooth and i find that it is very responsive which helps avoid roots and rocks. The frame on it is super stiff so it gives you a better feel for the terain. This is a great bike for the price, I rate it 5 flaming dead horses.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bikemasterc
a weekend warrior
from id Date Reviewed: February 10, 1999
Bottom Line:
okay, this is the best bike for the money hands down. but come on, only one boring color. life just isn't fair.i will but it though, just a little over the budget right now
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark D
a racer
from London Date Reviewed: January 20, 1999
Bottom Line:
I noticed the price posted on this review site - $1199.99 - think yourselves lucky as its almost double that in the UK. Still, Specialized have got a great XC racing bike here. I tested all manner of bikes before deciding on my racing steed for 99 - including GT Zaskar, Kona Muni Mula, Trek 8000. The M2 has something about it - very light, very rigid and very, very responsive. Of course I'm going to give this bike 5 chiles as I've just bought one, but for anyone out there considering the Specialized M2 - take it out for a test ride as all the bikes have different styles and positions. So far, out on the trails this bike performs - frame, components and Manitou forks. I don't agree with the other reviews that you should upgrade to XT or XTR front derailleur as the LX do a good job - but its a free world...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a cross-country rider
from ont Date Reviewed: January 19, 1999
Bottom Line:
The stumpjumper is one of the best bikes out there for the money. Schwinns moab 1 is the same price but only has a judy XC and a straight 7005 aluminum frame. The M2 is great. with just enough comfort to keep you going. The manitou fork is the best. With the micro lube its so easy to maintain.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a cross-country rider
from gaithersburg,maryland Date Reviewed: January 5, 1999
Bottom Line:
i have yet to experiance this bike and soon i will let yall know how this bike rides. im a 18 year old mtn biker, racing for four years, and been working as a professional bicycle mechanic at bikes usa in gaithersburg, md for three years so you can trust my opinion, o.k.! in about two weeks from 1/5/99 expect to see a detailed report card on this bike! happy trails!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M bone
a cross-country rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: December 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
This bike is the best bike I have ever rode for the $. It is fairly light, climbs great with the 9 speed gearing, and rides fast. The ride is very smooth for a hardtail and the Manitou shocks can handle about anything I throw at them. However, if you get one replace the LX front derailler, the Clipless Specialized pedals, and the Avid brakes. I have had mine for over 3 months, and am completely happy with it's performance. I was going to go with a full suspension rig, but realized that you can get better components, a lighter bike, and a superb ride with this Stumpjumper for the price than any other suspension bike. By the way, stay away from those Diamond Back V4 bikes, they can't climb at all. You could also spend more money for the Stumpjumper Pro, but why? This bike has similar performance and costs $400 less. I have to give this bike 5 chiles if and only if you replace the brakes with XT.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Mousley
a weekend warrior
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: November 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
Just took this bike out for a spin in N.Georgia and it is a pretty damn good bike, well worth the purchase and a lot of fun. Although the front mech is Deore LX which Im replacing with XTR or similar.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a racer
from CT USA Date Reviewed: November 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
This bike is is pretty sssssssssswwwwwwweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeetttttttttt But I like the new kleins better. But I think that the way that the Specialized Stumpjumper is set up looks cool and rides smooth. I haven't ridden the Kleins yet but I think that they look much better than the Specialized. Specialized should do the same kind of paint job that Klein does
Overall Rating:
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