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Submitted by
Ian
a Weekend Warrior
from Stourport-England
Date Reviewed: October 28, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | swapped for zaskar | | Strengths: | Very plush and solid frame, a few simple modifcations and it can be used for free-ride or cross country | | Weaknesses: | The bloody seatpost!!!!!!!The reason i got rid of this bike was because i ended uop having to carry a longer seatpost with me on rides as i couldnt find a comfortable medium for jumping/mileage | | Similar Products Used: | MOst full sus konas and gts | | Bike Setup: | Specialized frame hs33's marzochi z1s downhill bits and bobs | | Bottom Line: | It is a very capable bike and is well worth the money, only however if you can put up with a severe lack of seatpost adjustment | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wyndon Pendergraft
a
from Fresno, CA
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | That beefy (strong) frame. Tried and true suspension design. Good customer service. Easily upgradable. | | Weaknesses: | That beefy (heavy) frame. Original fork, orignal rear shock, original crankset. | | Similar Products Used: | GT XCR-3000, Giant XTC-DS1 (NRS and non-NRS versions), Intense Uzzi SL, Specialized FSR-XC, Klein Mantra, Trek Y-3, Trek VRX 200 | | Bike Setup: | '98 Model: Marzocchi Atom Bomb; Easton CT-2 carbon fiber riser bar; XT hubs, chain, cassette, crankset, BB and FD; XTR shifters, levers, brakes and RD; Mavic 517 rims; MRP bearing kit for rear suspension; orginal rear shock. | | Bottom Line: | Two things stand out now two years after I bought the bike. The first is the Marzocchi fork was the single best thing I ever did to upgrade the bike. The original fork was TERRIBLE! Just a spring with seven inches of plastic beneath it. Anyway, this is not a Marzocchi review. Just say it made my bike so much better. The second best thing I did was replace the original bushings in the rear pivots with MRP's needle bearing kit. This made the ride so much more supple than initially and feel as close to an Intense as you could get without shelling out the cash for one. It almost feels as if you're floating over the trail instead of riding on it. It's nice to see Specialized finally went with a bearing system for their 2000 FSRs. It's such a performance upgrade it's almost unbelievable. It's one of those things you see almost immediately. If you are thinking of getting a '98 or '99 that's left over (I've seen some), think about spending the extra $160 and get the bearing kit. It's worth it. If you can talk the shop into changing out the shock for you, you might want to think about that, too. All unadjustable shocks suck, period.
Still, two years later, despite having replaced almost every single item on the bike (except for the rear shock and headset, and the shock is next, I have nothing but good things to say. Parts are just what you hang on the frame. And after upgrading the frame with the bearings, I see the inherant qualities in the Specialized design. It's supple, active, stiff. Too bad the frame weighs so much, but then again, too bad I weigh so much. The FSR in it's '98/'99 form is the best fat-guy bike out there. It'll take whatever you throw at it without a whimper. I don't think you could break that big frame without a sledgehammer. Even with this weight, you can get the weight down with a judicious change of components. I've got mine down to between 26 and 27 pounds and can drop it more with air on both ends, but we'll see about it.
I give five stars for its potential, three for the orignal form it came in. Split the difference and call it four. The bike is still cheaper with what I've done to it that an Intense ever would've been. Nice value. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Manu
a Cross-Country Rider
from France (Paris)
Date Reviewed: November 1, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
singletracks | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
The bike is GREAT!! I don't feel the bumps anymore, I can jump, play It's really great! | | Weaknesses: |
Maybe a bit heavy... | | Similar Products Used: |
It's my first full suspension bike. But I've tried my friend's ones. | | Bike Setup: |
Decathlon 520 (a Shimano STX rigid bike) and a Giant super sierra a deore XT rigid bike(Don't buy a giant it's the worst bikes: I broke mine!! (mail me for more information)) | | Bottom Line: | If you want a great full suspension bike to do a lot of various activities, not too heavy, with good suspensions: Buy this one! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Van Nuys ca
Date Reviewed: August 19, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
The suspension works great!I weigh 160# and the suspension doesn't seem to pogoat all for me.Haven't yet had any problems with brakes yet.I think that it's greatest strength is definately downhilling. | | Weaknesses: |
None i have experienced and i have been rididng it hard..even on bmx tracks. | | Similar Products Used: |
Before i had rode the FSR i was trying to decide between the cannondale and the proflex but neither one seemed to fit me well.i decided to try another shop and finnaly saw the FSR,just the looks alone was hard to believe that it is a $1000 bike!I rode it for five minutes then took it home. | | Bike Setup: |
My bike came with the judy c fork and LX components. No changes yet. | | Bottom Line: | I highly recommend this bike to annyone or any riding style.The quality and durability has been outstanding so far.I have ridden much more expensive bikes on downhills that didn't feel nearly as good as the FSR,it reminds me of my moto cross bike.I have yet to bottom the suspension hard so far. even off of bmx doubles!I truly love this bike and for the life of me can't see how someone could give it just one chilie. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Derbyshire, England
Date Reviewed: July 3, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Butts Quarry mx track | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
the suspension works amazingly well, i use it on a reguarly used motoX track and being the only mtber with full suspension im the only one who can get round the whole track. The specialized team comp tyres grip on anything and the Diacompe V brakes stop you better than most, but the pads wore down quite quickly.looks amazing, and the 24 speed drivetrain took me to 56 mph on a nearby hill. | | Weaknesses: |
rear derailleur broke twice and have now upgraded to sachs centera. the brake pads didnt last long, and the saddle is uncomfortable, but the suspension makes up for that. | | Similar Products Used: |
GT LTS, gary fisher, trek Y3 | | Bike Setup: |
i have a Rockshox delux rear shock, Manitou Lt 80 mm fork, LX/Stx Drivetrain, Diacompe V brakes, and mavic rims. | | Bottom Line: | i love this bike. the suspension is readily adjustable and the bike is great for climbing, and going downhill.it is the best looking bike that exists in my opinion and it is very light for the price range. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C-mac
a Weekend Warrior
from BIG California
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Red Deavl | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
they have fat full supention pikes that take all the bump's | | Weaknesses: |
when you first buy it you goat to make some ajustment's to the bike | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek:i could break the frame on the first fall | | Bike Setup: |
i manly use Rock Shokes | | Bottom Line: | the bikes are the best fastest.the disk break's work good with great suspention | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kim Mills
a Cross-Country Rider
from vacaville,ca
Date Reviewed: March 18, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
nothstar@tahoe | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
great for downhill!!! | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
GT Rebound | | Bike Setup: |
Brakes and shifters
no grip shift for me! | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike! I have ridden it more in the first three months than I rode my old bike in a year. It is great on downhill. I love the bounce. If I could give it more chillies I would!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Coquitlam, BC
Date Reviewed: March 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Burnaby Mountain | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Value, Frame strength, Tires. | | Weaknesses: |
Heavy, Pogo stick front end noisy (no top out bumper). | | Similar Products Used: |
GT LTS, Rocky Mtn DH race, Cannondale v700 | | Bike Setup: |
Manitou LT fork, Rock Shox deluxe rear (750x150). Shimano pedals, answer riser bar | | Bottom Line: | I began the hunt for a new steed three months ago...my trusty M2 had finally tired, (7yrs old, manitou 1 fork etc...) I thought about full suspension, but still really loved the stiffness of the matrix hardtail. As I tried out some rides priced between $1200 and $2100 (Canadian) I was les and less sure about a FS bike...that is until I put my leg over the FSR...it just felt right...the geometry, the fit, the suspension, everything. I knew this bike was new but the model was a year old and so was able to work out an amazing deal with Hillside Mountain Bikes in West Vancouver...I'm sure they lost money on this deal, I'm not too proud of that fact, but...you know, I am! I have thouroughly enjoyed this bike, if you have never tried full suspension...like you think you are a purist or something, get off it, try a FS bike. This bike has sped up every aspect of my ride, except for the long climb. It is getting better, as I learn to smooth out my energy on the climb...it will never climb as well as my M2, no matter how smooth I am. Since I have been winter riding out on the west coast, the bike has been very dirty, very muddy, very layered in pine needles, rotted plant matter and the like...the only complaint so far is the shifting in these adverse conditions, otherwise the bike has worked very well. The only other beef is with the Manitou LT fork, I spoke with the Manitou rep, and he said that Specialized wanted the Top out bumper removed in order to increase travel to 70mm, I would gladly sacrifice a bit of travel for a quieter, smoother fork!
All in all, I am very pleased with my purchase, and I eagerly anticipate dryer, warmer weather to try the bike out at greater speeds. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ALLEN CONE
a cross-country rider
from kennewick, washington
Date Reviewed: February 15, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I HAVE THE 98 FSR IN AN EXTRA LARGE FRAME. I AM ON THE SECOND NEW FRAME BECAUSE THE UPPER BOLT ON THE REAR SHOCK KEEPS BREAKING AND TWEAKS THE FRAME. SPECIALIZED CLAIMS THAT THEY HAVEN'T HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH ANYBODY ELSE. SO, WE GOT A NEW FRAME AND ADJUSTED THE REAR SHOCK SO THERE IS ONLY 1/2 INCH OF SAG (PRETTY STIFF). THIS TIME THE BOLT LASTED ABOUT TEN RIDES AND HERE I AM AGAIN IN THE SAME PERDICIMENT. I HAVE LOST COMPLETE FAITH IN THE INTEGRITY OF THE SUSPENSION AND FRAME. I WEIGH 230 POUNDS AND AM NOT A RACER, AND THE BIKE CAN'T TAKE WHAT A RECREATIONAL RIDER DEALS IT. THIS IS THE FIRST MOUNTAIN I HAVE HAD AND AM CERTAINLY DISSAPOINTED IN THE DURABILITY OF THIS 1000.00 MACHINE. I AM GOING TO THE DEALER TOMMORROW TO SEE WHAT THEY ARE GOING TO DO. IF YOUR BIG AND DON'T BABY YOUR BIKE I WOULDN'T SUGGEST BUYING. IN THE 900 MILES I HAVE RIDDEN THE BIKE I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE FOLLOWING PARTS: FRAME, REAR SHOCK, BOTTOM BRACKET, CHAIN AND SMALL FRONT COG, AND FREE WHEEL ASSEMBLY. THIS REPLACEMENTS WERE NECCASARY. CERTAINLY FEEL THERE IS A QUALITY ISSUE WITH SPECIALIZED. OTHER THAN WHAT HAS BEEN MENTIONED ABOVE THE BIKE CLIMBS AND HANDLES GOOD.
T | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a cross-country rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: February 14, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I've just bought a '99 FSR a week ago, and I've got to say it's the best bike around for the value and I love it already. I did a lot of research before handing over my hard-earned, and nothing else compares to the price (plus I got an even better deal from the shop!)or quality. The '99 spec comes stock with Judy C's (better than the '98 Manitous, I'd say), Rock Shox Deluxe Coil over rear, LX drivetrain (no STX-RC here), Avid/DiaCompe brakes and Mavic rims. OK, so they aren't the top-level components available. So what? It's an A grade frame, and the parts are fine for a non-competition rider like myself, and probably OK for entry comp. I'll upgrade them if and when they fail. The Judy's are a bit bouncy, and the damping is only adjustable via oil grade/volume, but I'll play with some different oil grades and springs to get it right. The drivetrain is good and getting better with fine adjustment. LX is as good as you'd want (for non-comp)unless you're a poser with money to burn on XTR or the like. And there are a lot of those. My last bike had STX, and it was more reliable than a friends XT - because I bothered to tune it right to start with, and regularly maintained it. The brakes on the FSR are probably the worst component, but they're more than ample. They still feel reassuring enough through mud and water, but I guess they're new and time will tell. I know they're a cheap item, so I'm not expecting disc-like performance. Brakes, especially levers, are a personal thing, so I'll upgrade when I need to and can afford to. But at least they're Avid.
It gets me every time how people bag the shit out of the OEM forks or brakes on a low/mid-specification bike because they're not as plush or adjustable as the five-levels-higher-grade/price from the same company, or because of what Joe Gofast FIGJAM said about a particular brand/product being no good. If you spend most of your time busting downhill runs at 40mph, and dropping off 5 ledges, then of course you're going to break basic level components. So why did you buy a basic level bike? If you need to, upgrade at purchase, and save the hassle to yourself, and everyone else that has to read your whingeing reviews. I wonder how many of these ego-justified upgrades occur due to excess cash flow and the wish to say I've got Z-1's and they kick arse over the crap OEM shocks! No doubt they do, but are they really necessary? Nice luxury, but need/got-to-have necessary? The old adage rings especially true with most things MTB related - You get what you pay for. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charles
a cross-country rider
from Pasadena,California
Date Reviewed: February 14, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I often frequent the Mount Wilson Fire Road and descend the technical Rim Trail or Mt. Wilson Trail(Trail information at mtbr trails-Los Angeles). These trails earn a extreme technical rating and have mini size boulders that immitate water bar drops which you have to often negotiate for approx 7-9 miles. All I can say, Specialized has the 1998 Specialized fsr comp dialed in correctly as far as components mix and value pricing. The greatest feature of this bike is the four bar linkage which gives it fully active suspension. You can really feel it on drops. The entry level shocks front & rear works excellent in the conditions I ride in. That is such a surprise. It serves it's entry level purpose. I'm very impressed and thankful for the performance of the Avid 2.0L braking system. Many times when I have negotiated technical sections, that I have to quickly brake to slow down and turn. It's so predictable that brake sliding does not occur. The rest of the components work well. I really love the Ritchey clipless pedals, XT & LX parts, the cranks. Thanks for building a great bike. Thanks for taking me home. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wyndon Pendergraft
a cross-country rider
from Fresno, CA
Date Reviewed: February 6, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike in June of '98 after riding perhaps a dozen others when my Trek hardtail was ready to be retired. I was this close (finger and thumb a quarter inch apart) from buying a '97 Pro-Flex and just as close to buying a Specialized Rockhopper. I am so immensely glad I bought the FSR. As I've seen with so many others, a few upgrades were in order, and the Manitou SX (yeah, right) was history within two months, replaced by a Marzocchi Z.2 Atom Bomb. I also got rid of the stock seat (now a Bontrager FS +10 with Kevlar), the seat post (now a Ritchey) and added some bar ends. Recently I changed out the 120mm stem for a 100mm Bontrager to shorten up the cockpit for better control, but some of the best changes I've made (besides the Marzocchi) are getting XTR brakes and levers and an XTR rear derailleur. Shifting is so much smoother, crisp and tight now, and my brakes have super power.But, so much for what I've done to the bike. What the bike does for me is more important. At the price point the FSR was being offered in '98, there was nothing out there to compare to it. There were no bikes with a four-bar linkage and the component spec at $1000 anywhere. No GT STS or LTS and no Diamondback V-6 could match the value of the FSR. Even one of the other bikes I was so close to getting, a Klein Mantra, was $300 more with no more better spec. Of course, as I've heard before, now that I've spent $1600 on my FSR all together, why didn't I just get another bike with better spec or an FSR Extreme? Well, to be honest, I liked the way the basic FSR looked. The Comp and Extreme are just ugly and after riding the FSR (or any of the FSR line), I couldn't force myself to buy another brand.Nearly eight months later, I am as delighted with my FSR as I was the first day. I ride it every day, and put a minimum of forty miles a week on it, so I have become very in tune to everything the bike does. It's stiff and stable. Because of this, it climbs and descends very well. I've bombed one and a half mile steep fire roads on it and climbed with it at 7000 feet, so I have become very intimate with the suspension, and it's one of the finest out there in my opinion, even for being a cookie-cut type of bike. The travel is quite adequate and surprisingly supple with the low-end Rock Shox in the rear. Of course, the Marzocchi up front makes a world of difference, as does the XTR equipment, but still, I'd challenge anyone to find a full suspension bike with similar spec at $1600 (the orignal $1000 plus my upgrades).The only remaining gripes I have with the bike are the crankset and bottom bracket (heavier than sin, and if I get rid of these I can get the weight down to about 26 pounds, I figure) and the rims. I have now discovered after eight months of daily riding that the Mavic 138s are an enormous part of my braking difficulties. I have heard many times the complaint that the stock DiaCompe brakes squeal or that XTRs or XTs squeal, and everyone blames it on the brakes, but it's not the case. XTR and XT brakes (at least the pads) are made for machined rims, and the 138s are not machined, merely polished. They're Mavic's low-end rims, and perform as such. If you can afford it, switch rims and you'll see an enormous difference, I'm sure, or try switching pads.Basically, though, for anyone looking for a decent weight full suspension that can hang with the best of them, look to Specialized's FSRs. They're the ones that have set the standard for freeride bikes, and have everyone (like Trek for instance) scrambling and changing designs to keep up, or own the patents that companies like AMP, McMahon, Intense, GT, Diamondback and others use for their full suspensions. There's a reason why so many companies will pay Specialized money to use the four-bar Horst link for their rides. It's the best. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a weekend warrior
from SF,CA
Date Reviewed: January 28, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Why are people complaining about the Manitou so much? I've had my FSR for almost a year and the Manitou is fine. Ever tried squeezng the front brakes on other shocks and seeing the bosses flex like crazy? The Manitou is STIFF. The travel is buttery smooth with no stiction at all. Even though there isn't any dampening, the MCU's are fine and if your standards for a nice bike was so high that even the FSR couldn't satisfy it, you should hae spent another thousand to one with better components. If you really need better performance, install some 99' Enlund Total Air Cartridges. The brakes don't suck, it's the brake levers that do. Swap'm out for some XT's and you'll notice the difference. What's with that hater that gave the bike one chili anyway? Just cuz the shock isn't that great doesn't mean you give it a one. This bike kicks ass on the sprints and downhills. Can't imagine going at the speeds I do with a hardtail and hitting a huge pothole or bump at full speed. This bike definately gives you the winning edge. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hoser
a racer
from Kansas
Date Reviewed: January 17, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike after being a huge schwinn only fan, and i must say that i love it, Being in Kansas, its all uphill believe it or not, and i think its an x-country god!!! I dont know how you get off calling it plush, and i think it would suck ass at downhills... but it still gives a nice firm yet comfy ride. I put an SX-TI in mine, and i like its suspension compared to the rear and may switch to a '99 Z-1 dropoff also, maybe my shock just sucks, but if anyone has any suggestions on a longer travel more plush shock, please e-mail me! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a cross-country rider
from Fremont, California
Date Reviewed: January 17, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had this bike for 6 months now, and I am very pleased with it. I had the shop switch to rapidfire shifters at the time of purchace. I've heard people complain about the front suspension but I like it. My other bike has a mag 21, and the manitou felt much better. I like the way the bike climbs, but I love the way it decends, very smooth and controllable. I did change to XT brakes and levers, which was a nice improvement. Overall it's a very cool bike for the money | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Fernee
a weekend warrior
from Columbus, OH
Date Reviewed: November 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Here's an update on the FSR story. I've moved from the serious downhill country of Brisbane Australia to Ohio and brought the FSR with me. To start with I swapped the pedals for SPD 636's and did a one to one swap for LX rapidfire shifters. I rode the bike for about two and a half months and then ditched the fork and fitted a Bomber Z1 BAM (Wow!). Now I've replaced the BB with a UN72 (the original wore out - UN72 was $18 from Cambria bikesource) and finally I have put an XTR front derailleur on as the front STX-RC unit couldn't power-shift into granny in an emergency -- I spent weeks tweaking it.Now 8 months since purchase the suspension is still working like a dream. The bike handles just about anything you can throw at it. Excellent stuff. It really is a bike worth buying, because you can keep on upgrading and it keeps performing. This is a bike worth upgrading too! One more thing, I did blow the rear shock on a downhill in Brisbane. The shock's been working fine since then, but the hills around here aren't as challenging either. I think a FOX Vanilla R will be my next upgrade and of course the brakes, which do work, but only marginally. I'm thinking XTR V's or maybe playing with some disks.Finally, this bike really rocks with a Bomber Z1 on front!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pizzy
a racer
from Brisbane, Australia
Date Reviewed: October 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What can I say? Its a damn work of art. Of all the bikes avaliable over here in Australia its the best one for the buck. Although I made a number of changes, to make it the best bike. I changed fork to 1997 JUDY DH, changed to Azonic dbl walled riser bar, shorty azonic stem, DMR free ride pedals, Kevlar seat, avid rollamajig (roll-a-ma-jig) and the best of all, Tomac HS-33 DH fully hydralic brakes. Now the bike is a work of art and I performs just as good. Great with stunts, no pedal feed back(not like GT LTS, large tossing system or limited ravel system) Well done SPECIALIZED | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
a mincer
a racer
from mike vaugan cycles
Date Reviewed: October 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i like to ride my big bouncer without the saddle on and the rear shock set nice and HARD; that way i get big time pleasure and a big time orgasm; me being the mincer that i am. I find using Finish Line grease on the seat post reduces stiction enough to ensure smooth passage up my botty hole. That's all for now but i'll post another review when i've done my first world cup downhill race on my FSR (which, incidently, i have now named F*****g Sexual Ride - for mincer's like me, obviously) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a cross-country rider
from Charlotte, NC
Date Reviewed: October 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought the FSR in August after doing lots of research on this bike. This forum proved to be very helpful (and accurate)! I have ridden very rutted and rocky trails and raced once in it's stock form. The bike is an incredible value for the money!! It rides sweet downhill and up with very minimal rear travel on climbing. Frankly, unless you are a NORBA pro, this bike climbs every bit as fast as any hardtail on the market regardless of what other riders claim. After racing through massive mud and pouring rain, DiamCompe brakes were completely shot. I found myself having to anticipate braking a full half second before needed. The brakes absolutely will need to be replaced for any serious off road riding. Yes, the fork is also very bouncy with no adjustment options to prevent this. However, I still find the fork to be funtional and reliable meaning you could live with this fork for awhile before replacing. I will be swapping the brakes for Avid 2.0 w/Ultimate L levers this week. I wholeheartedly give this rig 5 chiles for a beautiful riding and finished frame and effective rear suspension. I didn't deduct for the brakes because I buy my bikes based on the frame and it's performance. Components can easily be swapped out and anyone who did their homework on this one knew the brakes and fork were throw aways! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christopher James Barratt
a weekend warrior
from Warwickshire, England
Date Reviewed: October 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Well then, where should one begin? I purchased this machine after several months of serious investigation and deliberation as I was unsure about the suitability of the Manitou forks and frame geometrics for someone of my stature. I read many articles and reviews and eventually took delivery of the aforementioned bicycle in August of this year with the following changes to the specification....a fine pair of Marzocchi Z1 BAM coil/oil suspension forks, excellent value Humpert downhill bars and STI shifters rather than the standard SRAM Gripshift 600 8-speed twist shifters. The forks handled the bumps with aplomb and were indeed a joy to behold, with their flame orange beautifully contrasted against the mirror blue of the main frame. Despite a little stiction at first, they now perform beautifully, soaking up all one can throw at the dual open bath 110 millimetre damping cartridges. The handlebars were simply a personal preference in order to keep up with today's hardcore downhill image! As for the gearing shifters, they were swopped at the shop after I read in several magazines that the original ones were not likely to perform as well as they might, hence I opted for Shimano's excellent 1998 rapidfire plus system.
The bike described is now a great wonder to ride, simply skipping over the small trail obstacles that litter the local BMX tracks and wooded paths. I assume it would be as eager to encounter even bigger and harder obstacles as I am! The overall mass of the machine now totals approximately 28.537lb, a most satisfactory result in this price bracket.
To conclude it must be said that the 1998 Specialized Full Suspension Racing bicycle is most pleasing and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who wishes to experience a little comfort on the trail.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
warren
a cross-country rider
from reno nv home of lake tahoe
Date Reviewed: October 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
GO thte bike on july1. my birthday. i took it out on a smooth road, barely feathered the front and rear brake, the front brake locked up on me and i flipped over the handles bars. this resulted in a broken arm and 2nd degree mechanical burns on 15% of my body. the brakes are crap. If i was like that i coulda sued the manufacturer and bike shop. i took up running. now 3 months later and all healed up the bike works well. the front fork tops out off of extreme jumps. the bike needs a new frontfork. But it motors up hills well. im 130 and there is some bob from the rear susp. up hills. down hills its smooth but i need to find a way to be able to drop the seat cause i cant get my weight suffeciently far back. my butt is scrapping the back wheel but my weight is still on the pedals therefore it is unstable down hills. the front fork is like a pogostick downhills and this is part of the prob. along with the rear brake locking up at a moments notice! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Matoba
a cross-country rider
from Sacramento, CA
Date Reviewed: October 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my FSR in early June 1998. Since then, I put about 40 miles into. Twenty of the 40 miles was at Northstar Ski Resort for some downhillin'. I can't believe how easy Northstar was. This bike rules for crazy downhillin. I competely changed the components prior to downhillin at Northstar: Judy SL (80mm), Cris King Headset, UN72BB, LX crankset (it creeks like crazy), XT deraileurs and brakes, WTB velocity raptor kevlar tires, race face seat, synchros seat post, shorter kore stem, shimano 636 pedals, and handlebar. Unfortunately, there's one problem, the bike tends to bounce around when you peddle extremely hard. Good climbing bike. Final thoughts: good downhillin bike. Poor cross country bike. I'll stick with my stumpjumper for the cross country trips with steep hill/descents and long distance. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a cross-country rider
from Las Vegas
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased my FSR at a great deal and Im stoked on the overall product but the fork bites. Specialized gave answer the specifications for the fork and they made it, but the rebound thump is heard throughout the land when your out on the trail.With a fork upgrade it blows the '98 line away. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Keith Olbrantz
a cross-country rider
from Asheville, NC
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have looked at a number of reviews on multiple items on this useful site so thought i should contribute. I have ridden around 10 rides on my FSR on both gravel roads and rutted, rocky ,root-infested singletrack. I upgraded the front fork
to the Manitou 1997 Palmer SX ti when Nashbar had it on sale. The original fork
has no rebound damping and really gave your hands a jolt on rebound, the Palmer has been a bigger improvement than I expected and a similar upgrade is strongly reccomended for whoever reads this. As expected, the bike is slower than a hardtail when climbing gravel roads, and turns in to a pogo stick when you get out of the saddle. the bike shines on technical and rough terrain both climbing and descending. I am surprised at how well the LX rear and STX RC front have worked so far. I had a set of AVID SD brakes and levers on my other bike which i put on right away with the FSR so I can't comment on the stock brakes. The rear tire was a bear to get off when I had a flat--found two layers of rim tape. It still was a pain after changing to packing tape so I switched to an Onza Buzz. Only the poor front fork keeps it from getting 5-stars. Still an exceptionallly good bike for the price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
The Provster
a downhiller
from Aberdeen, UK
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my FSR about two weeks ago. I had a Specialised HardRock before, with rigid front and back, which was a good bike, but was getting old and a bit rusty. I had a go on the FSR in a shop - I was very hapy with how it handled and felt generally, so I bought one. Two weeks later, I have realised how crap the front fork is - It makes such a noise going over bumps, feels like there is a damn pogo stick stuck to the front! I had a go on a friends bike with a Z1 on the front (hugely smoother) and can't wait to upgrade.The first day I got the bike, I thought the brakes were excellent, but after riding offroad, they really started to loose stopping power. Now they are squeeky and in effective - I tried cleaning them, it had some effect, but not much.As for the back shock, I don't really feel it is performing for me. I haven't bottomed it yet, even riding off a 16 wall and keeping my butt on the seat, It didn't bottom. I have a friend with a weaker spring on the same shock, and it works so much better than the stock one, It absorbs tonnes better and I would advise other people to upgrade it.Overall, A great bike when upgraded slightly and tuned. I give it 3 stars just now, but when I upgrade, it'll be worth 4 or 5 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd
a cross-country rider
from Edwards,CA
Date Reviewed: September 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The FSR is the best entry level FS bike on the market. No pogo on a man thats 6'0 230. I love the smoothness and plushness. The only grip is the fork. Ditch it for one worth a damn or get proper elastomers. I love it and cant waite to get it into the Quachita Mountains of Arkansas.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Yves Pineault
a cross-country rider
from La Malbaie,Que., Canada
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this great bike a week ago and I can't believe they call this machine a cheap dual suspension bike! This bike is a revelation to me! I've been riding bikes off-road for 25 years ( Do I qualify for father of mtnbiking's title? ) and This wonderbike brings me back to those years when I used to ride my motocross bicycle( also a dual suspension bike...of 50 pounds) in the back country with lot of fun. What about the brakes and the forks? Gee! You guys out there complaining about this and that must be real experts 'cause everything is fine with that bike! I'm havin fun, that's all matters to me and that what's mtnbiking is really about! For those about to spend a lot of money ( if you are on a budget like me ) you won't regret it with this one. It is a winner!
Have fun and ride! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
michael
a weekend warrior
from tempe, az
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the FSR because of two things: 1) the price. You can not beat this bike for the price. 2) Speacialized's reputaion for quality bikes. Overall I am very pleased with the bike. It handles awesome. I must agree with other reviews that the breaks relly suck. I also agree that speacialized was very misleading in literature about the manitou fork. This fork is definately low end. With a fork and brake upgrade this bike will be perfect. It gives me corage to take on large vertical drops I would never have tried on my hardtail. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pierre
a cross-country rider
from France
Date Reviewed: August 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Hello guys: I bought a Specialized FSR four month ago and I am the most happy men of the world. I only change the suspension fork for a Answer manitou FS Ti Palmer replica (Good fork and best price). I have not any problems with this bike and he works perfectly. I think that is the best suspension system and I recomended this bike for all the mountainbikers. Five Chilies | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan
a cross-country rider
from NC, USA
Date Reviewed: July 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Rode the FSR yesterday around the Uwharrie trails here in NC and have the following comments. Basically, the rear end, even dialed to it mechanical minimum, rides like a hard tail. This might be either good or bad, depending on how much of your $1000 was for the rear shock. The front shock, an SX/LT Manitou, felt like either oatmeal or concrete, depending on speed and what I was running over with it (Upgrade necessary). The bike weighed 27.9 lbs, and felt like a sherman tank when rapid accereration was needed. Downhills were acceptable, however the braking system is not capable of handling anything beyond an occasional 'gravity assisted' speed run. In all honesty, this bike is simply limited in its true potential by the components that seem to have been just slapped on it to meet a price point for a full-susp rig. Overall, the bike is OK for around a $1000. But, I would urge buyers to look for a better component package in comparitively priced bikes, or expect to spend another $500 on immediate upgrades. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mAnItOu MaN
a racer
from nEw EnGlAnD
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Since someone gave this great machine a ONE .....I'll give it five since it is such a great bike.
What do you want for 1000$$$$
Decent parts, 4.3 inches of travel, clipless pedals, same frame as there higher
end models. It sure beats the heck out my friends piece of crap (pro-flex) and his swhinn s-20 and not only that I paid much less than there bikes.
So there you have it a great bike for a little amount of cash.
HAPPY TRIAL :-) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a racer
from LA
Date Reviewed: July 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Truely the best value around the 1,000 range. Rear suspension gets 4.3 of travel which is hard to get for the price. Bike weighs a decent 27lbs stock. One of the most eye-catching frames made. Great X-country bike but just by putting on a riserbar, and swapping the suspension fork, you get an excellent DH rig. Very versatile bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron Hite
a cross-country rider
from Aliso Viejo, CA
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Got it for $830! Then upgraded the shifters to LX rapid fire. Also put a riser bar (similar to the extreme). I ride 8 miles (offroad, cross country) every day. The FSR handles it just fine as long as you keep the drivetrain lubed. I'm disappointed in the front shocks, as well as the stiffness in the rear (I'm 220lbs and have the stock spring as unloaded as can be, and it's STILL stiff). It IS the best buy in an entry level, full suspension bike. I've ridden many. There are a few out there that cost less (a Diamond Back or two), but have nowhere near the 4in of travel in the suspension. This is a great choice in models because with a few upgrades (drivetrain, shocks, ect...), you end up with an extreme, which costs $400-$500 hundred more. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Grant Bryan
a weekend warrior
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: July 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a '98 FSR about a month ago, for $899. When I bought the bike immediately upgraded the shifters to XTR Rapid Fire, and swapped out the clipless pedals for some normal ones. I wish I would have upgraded the specially built for Specialized Manitou Fork at the same time. I might as well have a pogo stick for a fork. That fork is a joke, it either is rock hard, or soft as a marshmallow, not much inbetween, and there is no rebound adjustment. It tops out all the time, and it feels like the wheel is going to fall off when it does that. I am now looking for a '98 Manitou SX-Ti. Every thing else on the bike has been great, after some adjustments to the rear shock. It came from the factory set hard as a rock. This bike would have gotten 5 chiles if it would have come with a decent front fork. I chose it over comparably priced Schwinn and Trek FS bikes. Maybe I'm expecting too much from an entry level FS bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Willie Anderson
a weekend warrior
from Austin TX
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Now that I've spent a week tweaking it, I *love* my FSR. I weigh 230, so I put the yellow elastomer set into the Manitou Pro LT fork and maxed the settings. I cannot emphasize the importance of having the fork set up correctly for this bike! But now, what a ride! I think the FSR *has* to be the finest entry-level FS MTB available, and I looked at 'em all. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dan
a weekend warrior
from san diego ca
Date Reviewed: July 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The FSR is the best bike i have ever had, it handles great its an awesome downhill bike on and off raod .
i got it up to 43mph on a steep downhill here in SD
AWESOME IS ALL I CAN SAY
IF U WANT A FULL SUSPENSION BIKE THIS IS THE ONE FOR UNDER A 1000$ I GOT MINE FOR930$
DAN | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Hewett
a cross-country rider
from Chico, California
Date Reviewed: July 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the best bike that I have ever owned. It handles the big and the small
equally well. I have to say that the bomber Z1 fork helps quite a bit. I got rid of the stock fork at time of purchase (I felt miss lead by Specialized). I also put Azonic riser bars on it, a more comfy seat and rapid fire shifters. However, the breaks suck nuts. I am thrilled with the bike and will be even more as soon as my new seat post and wheel set come in. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel Adamian
a weekend warrior
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got this bike about two months ago and it has been great. The bike is so smooth and fun to ride. I've had no problems with the brakes or any other parts. I've riden more expensive GT's and my FSR felt much better. The handling is also great. The price is great. Its probably the best deal. No regrets. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Les
a weekend warrior
from Toledo, OR. U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: June 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I went from no suspension To the FSR and man what a difference. Going up hill is so much easier and handling gravel roads with the unexpected 3 to 4 size rock in areas is no problem. I've read what others have said about the brakes and I have had no problems with mine. I've had the bike for 2 wks. and been on single track and logging roads, up hill and down hill and for the money it performs great. I tried a few other bikes but this one fit me the best and I liked the way it handled. For an entry level full suspesion bike its worth the money. The best part is that its the same frame as the Extreme so a few upgrades in the future and you have an even better bike. Give it ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee Barnett
a weekend warrior
from Switzerland
Date Reviewed: June 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike two days ago and have run it round the streets on day 1. Nice, it was a bit different from my Scott bike with no suspension. But after bouncing up and down on the tarmac, I decided to take it up the hill next to where I live. The ride up was smooth, no real loss of power with the 4-point racking on the rear wheel. A nice bounce from the front forks when you really put the effort in, I found this not to be disturbing. And the ride down was cool. I have read the comments on the brakes on this page and mine I think must be well adjusted from the shopman, I wound down a 1-metre wide track with people walking and often needed to brake hard, I would have gone through the trees there but we had the mother of all thunderstorms the previous day and I did not fancy wrapping my new toy around a tree after hitting wet roots!! I will post more soon when I really test this machine - some proper downhill runs at the local ski resorts will really test this bike!! Cheers | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim OFlynn
a cross-country rider
from Isle of Wight, U.K.
Date Reviewed: May 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I loved my Cannondale M900, especially after I put a pair of Marzocchi XC 700's on the front. The only trouble was, the front sus allowed me to go faster on single track and downhill and I kept coming off when the back end wouldn't follow the front when changing track! So, after reading every test on comparable machines and trying the Marin range of full bounce (very nice) I decided to go for the Specialised just because the shop was only a few hundred yards from my place and they'd looked after me well for a couple of years. That, incidentally, is a point to consider. I liked the idea of a lifetime guarantee on the single pivot that Marin offers (otherwise, the ride is pretty similar to the Specialised FSRs) - but the Marin shop was a half hour drive away and for those little tweaks that ineviitably follow a new purchase, it's worth going local. Am I delighted? Do fishes swim? The FSR has opened up unbelievable new vistas of excitement.. It climbs superbly, it performs on single track like a mountain goat and goes downhill like a Olympic racing tobaggan! Change the tyres from 'Team' (awful) to 'Ground' and upgrade the suspension (my shop gave me full retail value on the stock Manitous and only charged me £50 extra for a pair of Marzocchi Z3s - like I said, they look after me well..) The Z3s took a little bit of wearing in but are getting better every day. The spec's not as good as my 'Dale (STX and LX) but for the price seem to work superbly. Buy one today and you won't be disappointed! If anyone out there lives on the Isle of Wight, the shop is 'Autovogue' in Ryde - can't get better back-up.. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a weekend warrior
from New York
Date Reviewed: May 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The FSR is my first dual suspension bike and I can't say enough good things about it! I test drove the low end FS models from Trek and Gary Fisher and found too much pedaling feedback or pogoing which I found disconcerting. The other bike that had a good suspension setup in this price class was the GT but it was a full 2 pounds heavier on the bike shop scale. While no lightweight, I find that for my fun and excercise uses of the bike, that the weight is not noticeable. I think the low end Manitou forks are better than the Indy's that I have tried. I knew that they were NOT dampened, and don't believe that Specialized was misleading on this count, although there is always some confusion as to what you are getting in these forks, take the low end Judy's as an example. If I decide I need the dampening in the future, which so far I don't miss that much, I can always get a leftover FS-Ti for 200 dollars.
Great beginner FS Bike for those without racing aspirations. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Hall
a cross-country rider
from Atlanta, Ga.
Date Reviewed: May 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the best full-suspension bike in its price range. The color is also oh so sexy. It beats the living piss out of the Trek Y series and its cheaper too. At first I was worried about the weight but when you get out on a trail you don't even notice it. The brakes leave something to be desired as do the tires but overall I am very happy with this product. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
WOOD
a cross-country rider
from CALIFORNIA
Date Reviewed: May 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just purchased a 98' FSR GC...all in all it is a great bike for a beg-intermidiate rider...i rode many....i read about all and have come to only one conclusion...buy what YOU like....the only draw backs to this bike are the brakes and if you dont like gripshift that is also a stump in the road....i am 235lbs of creatine and supplemented filled mass and have no problem with the geometry or the durability of this bike...i am going to upgrade the brakes first and then throw some rapid fire on this badboy....or you could just spend and extra 300 dollars when you first buy the bike and get a comp instead....i like the mirror blue instead of that puke orange....plus its the same chassi with just some different componetry....and hey you cant go wrong with anything that carries a specialized tag....so ride if you like it buy it...fast.....climber.....great frame....and value friendly...but throw out the breaks | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
randy
a weekend warrior
from nc mountains
Date Reviewed: April 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The FSR is a great bike. I like it better than my friends' Y22 and ATX970. The only really crappy part on the bike is the brakes. Throw them out; they will not stay centered up, causing an annoying rub. The levers work well, though. The fork is an SX/LT PRO, which PRO means NO DAMPING in Manitou. SO don't expect a true SX. BE real - it is only a $1000 bike. I switched to a Manitou FS and put on a shorter stem. Ride the hell out of it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Upset on the trail
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: April 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Overall, the FSR is a great $1000 bike. However, all the SBC sales lit and the SBC web page tell you you'll get a nice Manitou SX LT with 80mm of travel. That is a very nice shock based on the new Twin Piston Technology. In reality, they are shipping bikes with a much lower end OEM Spyder (elastomers and no damping). The reason the shock seems to be under damped is because it is not damped at all! When I called Specialized, I was told that the spec for the SX/LT was a 'typo'. If it's a typo, then why are there pictures and a references to it in every piece of '98 SBC sales literature, ie:
1) The '98 sales catalog.
2) The '98 dealer's reference guide.
3) On their own web page!
I don't call that a typo, I call it DECEPTIVE ADVERTISING! If you purchased a '98 bike, look at your front fork. It's probably not what you thought it was.SHAME ON YOU SPECIALIZED!
| Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Fernee
a weekend warrior
from Brisbane, Australia
Date Reviewed: April 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've already posted a review of this bike in the general category, but here's a bit more to think about: The rear end is super plush and I have not been able to bottom it yet. I'm dropping the rear spring preload more to find it's limits. But for riding, I've climbed hills that my hard tail would be pushed u, carved single track and eaten rocks, roots and rut for breakfast on the downhills. Totally awesome. On the negative side, the front manitou may give the full 80mm of travel (I know this because I've bottomed it and heard the knobs purring under the fork clamp), but it's way underdamped. It seems to have some form of air damping, not the new TPC system, and I'm not sure how long this will last as it's already contaminating the grease in the fork with rubber. The brakes are also not too good, but work if properly adjusted. The problem is that if they get crudded up on the trail, the bushings have a tendency to stick and this can result in a brake pad rubbing against the rim. You need to be able to adjust the brake spring tension on the trail to solve this (philips head screwdriver). For a cheap FS bike, the parts are lower end, but work. What really matters is the suspension, and that is faultless on the front (in fact it's awesome!). Upgrade the rest when you get the money. You still get an excellent bike that's gonna be a lot of fun.... I'm can't wait to fit a bomber Z1 on the front, then I have a date with some real serious hills around here! If you're still thinking about it, buy it. You won't be disappointed.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
darryl
a weekend warrior
from kelowna ,bc, canada
Date Reviewed: April 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
awesome bike ,very plush suspension.yes the drive train is low end, but i
haven't had any problems,yet! the weight sounds like alot but once you get
on it you rarely notice the weight!!my old bike was a stumpjumper with a
manitou fork, and it felt like it weighed as much. for me it was a lot of
money,but i don't regret it one bit, money well spent. only four chili's due
to low end gear. get one!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary Wilson
a weekend warrior
from Covina,Ca.
Date Reviewed: April 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I,ve ridden a Rockhopper comp,Stumpjumper M2, and now I'm the happy owner of a new FSR. I'm a big fan of Specialized bikes and the FSR is a real hoot! Even though it is the low end of the line the components are great, the suspension PLUSH, and the fun factor is off the chart. I haven't weighed it but It is not to much heavier than my Stumpjumper(Which is going to be very lonely now). | | Overall Rating: |
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