Submitted by
jenglish23
a Weekend Warrior
from Vacaville, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Whistler - Freight Train to Sidetrack to A line to GS course
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Ray's Cycle
Strengths:
Good entry level DH bike. Can be upgraded and works like a high end bike. Great for a bike Park with lifts.
Weaknesses:
Pretty heavy. Suspension is poo. The Marz Drop-Off fork is horrible
Similar Products Used:
Enduro SX. Other FSR DH bikes (Palmer replica)
Bike Setup:
Changed the fork to a 888 RC2X and rear shock to Van RC. Added a bash guard.
Bottom Line:
This is a great DH sled for the money. Take it to your local bike park that has lifts or shuttle with it. Sucks to ride any kind of XC on this bike. Mine tipped the scales at about 46 lbs. This is a great Whistler bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
EXdownhillrider
a Downhiller
from USA Date Reviewed: August 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Paid in Full
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Criterium Bicycles
Strengths:
Psht, everything! It has a pretty sick setup! The fork is pretty strong and the rear suspension is good. It has an easy way of setting the compression right before a big hit so you don't have to stop and get off. The bike is surprisingly versatile as well. It's just about as easy to take up hill as my old hard tail. ( a crappy $500 deal.)
Weaknesses:
Hard to take through rock gardens when going UP, just because of the angle of the fork. Soars the rock gardens with the lightest of ease. =)
Similar Products Used:
ha, crappy hard tail?
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money! I am the guy who does every kind of riding style, but downhill and freeride was my passion. I looked at the SX but it was to much for less. This bike pedals fairly well and takes the up hills like a dream. Much better than I ever would have thought. I've really put it through it's paces and it handles everything beautifully. It easily handles 18 foot drops with out bottoming out. In fact, this bike put me in the hospital but was fine itself. =/ This bike is da bomb! (within my price range) It's totally bombproof and just, amazing! If your looking for a bike that will pedal up your descent before you bomb it, get it, you will not be dissapointed! AMAZING!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Downhiller
from Maryland Date Reviewed: June 3, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Friend
Strengths:
Many good qualities. Strong, feels solid on everything that I have ridden.
Weaknesses:
The suspension and the stock wheels. The weight can be a pain on occasion.
Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse Sunday, Kona Stab
Bike Setup:
Boxxer Team fork, DHX 5.0 shock, Mavic Deemax wheelset
Bottom Line:
I did mention the suspension as a weakness only due to the fact that there is minimal adjustability. The wheels are ok, but once you start riding the bike to its full capability the wheels will not last. Other than the aformentioned weaknesses, which I do not feel are reason to look past this bike, I love it. It can be a bit heavy if you are going uphill, but on downhills its like sitting on a rocket. I definately recommend this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CJ Harris
a Downhiller
from Boise Date Reviewed: June 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
trail 4
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
pinkbike.com
Strengths:
this bike was made for downhill and is some instances it is a better pedaler than a specialized demo. it makes it much harder to fall down
Weaknesses:
it is heavy and is a little more difficult to pedal uphill
Similar Products Used:
transistion bottle rocket, cannondale rush,
Bike Setup:
all non-stock. there is nothing on my frame that is originally on a big hit. i could sell my fork for as much as i bought the bike.
Bottom Line:
the best bike ive owned by far, it will last me for years, it can do what ever you want it to do. go big or go die
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
juishjaknife
a Downhiller
from middlebury vt USA Date Reviewed: April 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
the ones i make up
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
a dude
Strengths:
its a tank of a bike, and not all that heavy for a dh/fr bike. don't get me wrong, its still got weight, but as to be expected. its also a great bike stock, and a good entry/intermediate level bike for whats on it, and can easily become an expert bike w/ component upgrades. its also got two geometric points which make it an easy change from dh to fr.
Weaknesses:
i was worried about the fork as i read reviews before purchasing the bike, but with a little time, love, and trial+error, i was able to find a sweet spot, and now it rides perfect. just take the time to do it right
Similar Products Used:
kona stinky delux, cannondale judge
Bike Setup:
stock+caingaurd (don't know what make, it was on there), derailleur gaurd
Bottom Line:
great entry/intermediate level, but can easily grow as your riding grows. bottom line,i highly recommend it, but only if you're willing to put the time, love, and care every bike needs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from San Luis Obispo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Face/ Morning Glory
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Some Guy
Strengths:
Geometry, Burly and confidence inspiring. It u'll soak up anything even during pedaling. Can be pedaled at speeds through bumps-Nice.
Weaknesses:
Cheap suspension, The Rear is a Fox van r thats a bit bargain for this bike. It works fine, but the lack of adjustablity bothers me. Hooked up friends 6 way and knew i needed a swinger or a dhx.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Team DH, RM7, Kona Stinky, Ruckus GT
Bike Setup:
Stock except the guy before me changed out the drop off triple and stuck a 06 888RC2X under there with Race Face diabolous spinning it. I can't imagine what the drop off was like so...
Bottom Line:
For the price (even new) its a quality rig with good geometry and decent acceleration. The weight is an issue in an area like SLO, but it can be pedaled if your willing. I climb on it occasionally and the downhill is worth the sweat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Phillips
a Weekend Warrior
from Mckeesport,, PA ( USA) Date Reviewed: October 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
7springs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Dirty Harry's
Strengths:
Geometry, components, frame
Weaknesses:
Climbing, I wouldn,t want to do to much uphill with this bike. Definitely made for gravity parks
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
07 Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is built rock solid. The geometry of the bike feels very comfortable descending and jumping. I am very impressed with the way the front and rear suspension work together, feels very balanced.It only took a couple of rides for me to get comfortable with this bike it feels very similar to my Stumpy only way more plush and it feels alot more solid. Bottom line if you are looking for a reasonably priced DH/FR bike and don't plan on doing alot of climbing then get this bike you won't be disapointed
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Crusty
a Weekend Warrior
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: August 19, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Strengths:
Good shocks, didn't have any problems, looks good
Weaknesses:
Seat post clamps dont' really work, chain guard keeps interfering with chain no matter how I adjust, really heavy
Similar Products Used:
Kona Dawg, RM Slayer
Bike Setup:
Factory
Bottom Line:
This bike is great for the money, but it's not the best out there. It's really heavy. Although most people will like the all-black color, it looks kinda boring to me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jay
a
from denver co usa Date Reviewed: June 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
lake arbot dirt jumps
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
mojo wheels
Strengths:
cheap bike handles what i ride nice shifting good breaks
Weaknesses:
the shifting was slipping and chain was messed up i dont know if this was the bike or the shop who built it up. the rear shock is weak i bottomed it out dirt jumping a smalljump with a gapand i weigh only 135 front fork seemes stif no adjustments i will find out when i take this down hilling this summer
Similar Products Used:
cannondale chase
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
good bike for the money find a deal dont buy it full price i didnt if you can afford the better fsr 3 then get that or get the demo get a better bike if you have the money or at minimum chang the rear shock if you can afford it. i am not a crazy serious hardcore rider so this is fine for now till i get better. i am not any crazy ridder i dont even dj crazy stuff and bottomed out the rear shock easy i gave it 5 for value because there was no other bike i could find at this deal for this price. and 4 for rating because it needs better suspension components
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matty 5000
a Downhiller
from Fresno, CA Date Reviewed: March 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Shuteye Peak
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Tri-Sport In Fresno,Ca
Strengths:
Solid Fame ultra stong and can take a beating, Great cockpit design comfortable for a freeride/dh bike, The best paint jobs on all 3 BigHit's this year, Most components on this bike are above par and will last you a while as long as you take care of them. specialized finally realized the whole K.I.S.S. method really works when it comes to bikes! Great bike for the price!
Weaknesses:
the forks need plenty of attention, i had to open them up to make adjustments which is a huge headache. Air suspension is not usually the best for free-ride/DH ESP with big elevation descents. Stock oil on Drop-Off Triple is too light weight, replace it if you can. Rims will eventually bend on you, Rear Fox shock is really stiff for my weight at 150 pounds results in over working spring and no shock pushness. replace the stock spring. Chain guide can use some attention, find out what works with your style if your doing drops it will work fine but DH runs will wear this little chain guide out. Specialized grips and tires need to go.....(stick to making bikes, your good at that, grips....eh, not so good) pedals can use some replacement after a full season of hard riding. You will also need a bash guard/chain ring. The BigHit II doesnt have one so invest $20-$40 bucks and youll thank me later.
Similar Products Used:
tooooooooo many to list
Bike Setup:
My '06 BHII is set up with 888's VF2 up front with bolt on grips, replaced stock spring with a lower wieght one. replaced specialized tires, bigger is better. rides super plush!
Bottom Line:
The Specialized bighit 2 is the best bike package yet. To top it off it wont break the bank either! stright outta the shop and on the trail or down city hall's stairs, its a great ride. Consider this bike as your next upgrade to free-ride heaven! Super easy to maintain and adjust for any kinda condition, to put it simply...it just works! enough said.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MEMO PORRAS
a Downhiller
from SJ Costa Rica Date Reviewed: March 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Very Very strong, the geometry is very good, you have the option to have up to a 8.75 rear shock. The black color is very nice. It comes with excellent good parts
Weaknesses:
The front fork, the rear shock....I´ve just replaced them...with the stock ones you get a good ride but once you put some quality on suspention you see what you and your bike are capable of.
Bike Setup:
06 888rx2, 6way swinger
Bottom Line:
I can´t find a better bike for the price. I would not change it for any other!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josiah
a Downhiller
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: February 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Sweetness/Z's
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
ABS
Strengths:
Geometry is very versatile, good for jumps, drops, trails, even some urban. This bike handles so good everywhere I ride, it surprises me all the time. Suspension is super plush, 7.5 inches is just the right amount of travel for where I ride. The Juicy 5's that came stock are another huge plus. Not to mention the frame is burly as hell. I just put a Rock Shox Totem on it, and it rides so much better, not to mention it looks badass.
Weaknesses:
Nothing related to the frame, just some small nit-picks about certain components. The stock pedals aren't too great - upgrade. The Truvatic Box-Guide isnt the best chain guide in the world, but it gets the job done. The Marzocchi Drop-off Triple is a piece of junk. It tops/bottoms out way too easy and any adjustments are really annoying to make. Yeah you can fine tune it to make it ridable but its worth the investment to upgrade to something nicer.
Similar Products Used:
Upgraded from Kona Dawg, but have ridden Kona Stinky, Specialized Demo 8.
Bike Setup:
Stock - Juicy 5's, Hussefelt cranks and stem, Fox R shock, Truvativ box-guide, SRAM X9 derailleur, X7 shifters. Not Stock - Rock Shox Totem Coil... siiick
Bottom Line:
This bike rules. It's extremely versatile, fun as hell to ride, and for the most part affordable. It's made me a much better rider. It manuals/wheelies VERY well also. If you have a bunch of cash, get the Big Hit 2, and switch out some of the parts and you'll have a sick DH rig.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tesh parker
a Downhiller
from pagosa springs,co,usa Date Reviewed: February 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any good dh trail and urban gaps
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2353.00
Purchased At:
Pedel & Powder
Strengths:
Excellent feel,looks, and handling.
Weaknesses:
The fork was a pain in the a**!!!!!!!! However, after some research I found how to adjust the rebound dampening(with a home made 30 in long 12mm hex key). Now the fork is excellent.
Bike Setup:
STOCK!
Bottom Line:
Aside from the original problems with the fork, which have now been solved; this is an awesome bike. I'd recomend it to any downhiller or freerider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
That Downhill kid
a Downhiller
from Fresno CA Date Reviewed: December 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
tri sport
Strengths:
its a specialized. do i need to say anything else??
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
demo 8, bighit1,3
Bike Setup:
mostly stock
Bottom Line:
well i got htis bike at the end of hte year so i got a great deal on it. once you add enough air to the front then your pretyt well off. if i could and i had the money i would probably up grade the fork but it works for now. for a experienced freerider or downhiller this is not a good bike. i would suggest either get demo or get this bike and upgrade the hell out of it. but for someone just getting into the sport this is a great bike!!! I LOVE THIS BIKE!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a
from England, London Date Reviewed: November 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Considering this is an entry level freeride/dh rig it comes with very nice kit for the price. Surprisingly easy up the hills as well as down.
Weaknesses:
Fork is very plush and smooth but will bottem out on 4 foot drops.
Similar Products Used:
Big Hit 1, Big Hit 3,SX Trail 1 07, Enduro, Kona Stinky deelux, Kona stab dh.
Bike Setup:
stock.
Bottom Line:
This is a very afordable decend freeride & downhill bike. If your looking for a bike which can tackle dirts jumps, single track, downhill and large drops this does all that. The most surprising thing about this bike is its so easy to race it up the hills as it is down. Bighits are thought as of downhill monsters but stick a single crown fork on the front and this bike is a thousand times better than the over rated SX trail!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared Fielding
a Downhiller
from Shelley, Idaho, USA Date Reviewed: November 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Tablerock
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
ebay.com
Strengths:
great all around, good suspension, brakes, reliable.
Weaknesses:
heavy, but that dosn't matter
Similar Products Used:
bighit 1
Bottom Line:
it is a great bike and was totaly worth it. i have no regrets and would suggest this to anybody.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Downhiller
from Tempe Date Reviewed: October 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Private Reserve
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Landis Cyclery
Strengths:
The bike rides great and really allows you to explore your skills in Downhill. I am still really a novice and sometimes it makes me think I am better than I really am. I have a couple broken bones to prove it. It is a very good looking bike however the satin black paint has some desert pinstriping on it now.
Weaknesses:
The fork like everyone says is crap. I hate the fact that I can't adjust it on the fly. It bottems out reverse everytime I lift the front end. I haven't replaced it yet and I am thinking I should have stepped up to the Big Hit III for the 888. The chain stay the comes on it stock fell off the first day I took it out. I definatly recommend replacing it.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Bullit, Kona Stab, Demo 8
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Really this bike is great for the money other than the fork being as bad as it is. It rides and looks great and a very good bike for the beginning Downhiller. You wont be upset at all with the purchase but think about stepping up the fork if you can afford it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Weekend Warrior
from atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: September 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Carters lake DH by SOFA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Handling, quality, looks
Weaknesses:
Heavy, hard to get at rebound knob on shock
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Vanilla R (swinger 6way in the mail, got a deal on it), titec pyro scoper post, ODI lockons, front mavic 729 on marz hub, SRAM 9.0 grip shift
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review. Ive taken this bike out on some actual DH runs now and have to say that it is a fantastic bike. It is amazingly stable yet fast handling. After about a month of ownership the rear shock finally broke in and become much more plush overnight. Also I changed the oil in the fork. The stickyness is gone and so is the top out. I had been looking at other forks but now I am completely happy with the Drop Off Triple. I folded the front Sun Singletrack and have replaced it with a Mavic 729. Bike tracks even better now. The drive train hasnt even needed adjusting some twists at the shifter barrel this whole time. Great quality. Just retorque the pivot bolts every once in a while or it starts making noises.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Evan
a
from San Luis Obispo Date Reviewed: August 16, 2006
Could have used a better shock. the truvative boxguide makes noise, and I had some initial trouble with the chain getting caught. Once you get it set up right, it works good.
Incredible bike for the money. Just put a DHX in the back, and would be awesome. The forks are great, I had some problems with the fork harshly topping out. Just go to marzocchi's website and print the manual. I put their recomended pressure in the forks and they work great now. The bike pedals good, but still feels like you are towing a cinderblock behind it. It does coast really well so if you can keep your speed up youll make it up the next hill. So far I have only jumped an eight stair, it felt pretty good. This bike handles jumps great, you just need a lot of speed. It wheelies great, partially due to the brakes. The Juicys rock! Overall, a great bike for the cash. I would get the FSR3 though, If you can afford it. If you are a decent downhiller or freerider and want to get better, this is the bike for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from Washington Date Reviewed: July 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Beacon Hill DH Course
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycle
Strengths:
Bullit proof frame, good suspension, and the fork. Alot of people dislike the fork but when set up correctly it is perfection, although a 888 VF2 would be nice :P.
Weaknesses:
Well, non really. The fork does that reverse bottem out thing, but that doesn't effect the performance.
Similar Products Used:
05' Big Hit FSR, 06' Cannondale Gemini 900( i think? it has the DOT and the Vanilla R)
Bike Setup:
Stock except for soon to be Race Face Bash Gaurd and Specialized Lo Pro Magnesium pedals, nothing big.
Bottom Line:
The bike can handle monsterous drops, steep downhills and handles well. For 2000 dollars good bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Parish
a Downhiller
from SCOTLAND Date Reviewed: July 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
fort william (Nevis Range)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Fork is nice, but have just ordered the super t. fox r is lovely, very plush.
Weaknesses:
Just a bit of trouble with the breaks. but sorted now.
Similar Products Used:
big hit3, enduro.
Bottom Line:
Handles like a dream. So easy to corner. Its a head turner. Even my girl friend loves it and she hates bikes. So for me its a must have!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david flores
a Racer
from novato Date Reviewed: July 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
top secret novato
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
mikes bikes
Strengths:
holds speed very well...specialized finally realized that a 24 inch rear wheel was a dumb idea for a dh bike..rear end was siiiiick..tires grip well up and downhill..fsr good enough to pedal up the trail..drivetrain is best ive ever used..wheels are strong
Weaknesses:
dropoff is crap..truly a piece of sh*t..when on off camber turns with even the slightest dirt, it slides out..they top out and there is NO way to fix it, trust me your better off buying a better fork..the seat post also is wierd because its so hard to tighten the clamps then when you do it still slides around, and the clamps grind into the post, its wierd..grips are bad..i never liked the truvative boxguide, it just constantly rubs, but never drops the chain..also theres something wierd about the brakes..i think its the shape of the rotors but when you brake, it makes a noise that sounds like its gripping the rotor then losing grips
Similar Products Used:
bighit spec, demo, old big hits with 24" wheel
Bike Setup:
03 Super Ts, odi rogue grips(best out there), mrp guide, shimano dx pedals, hayes rotors
Bottom Line:
bottom line..sick dh bike..if you get a new fork, it can race downhill and lead you to the podium..it pedals amazingly..best part is how well it holds speed when going downhill..i sold the dropoff for $90 to some punk, then bought my friends old super t for 200 so i got a good deal..its unfortunate that specialized cant at least spec it with a junior t because the dropoff holds the bike back from its full potential..i give it 5 because it can be such a great racebike if you just get a new fork
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Sammamish Date Reviewed: June 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Exit 27
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bicycle
Strengths:
Fork is plush, Shock is nice, FSR, Brakes and Drivetrain
Weaknesses:
Havn't found any yet. . .shock was a little stiff but that was adjusted by myself and works great now.
Similar Products Used:
2005 Big Hit FSR, other new Big-Hits
Bike Setup:
Stock except for 500 lb spring (not sure if stock)
Bottom Line:
The most bang for the buck, wich is expected from the big S. The bike pedals excepionally well for a 7.5 inch travel FR bike. Love the look, makes you want to back down. ----------
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Weekend Warrior
from atlant, ga, usa Date Reviewed: June 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
sope creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
great handling, confidence inspiring, can climb well enough if you put the seat way up and its worth the effort once you head downhill. FSR is amazing, can pedal constantly while going over rough terrain at speed with no feedback. Adjustable head angle. All black on the FSR II is mean looking
Weaknesses:
Drop Off Triple tops out harshly and you have to open it up and remove the spring just to adjust the rebound, hard to reach the rebound adjuster on the rear shock, heavy (46lb according to bathroom scale), will only take E-type front derailleur, need a telescoping post
Similar Products Used:
stepped up from my hardtail, never going back
Bike Setup:
stock except for 600lb spring, SRAM 9.0 grip shifter, and ODI lockon grips
Bottom Line:
Feels more like a dirt bike than a bicycle which I really like. Everyone says it looks sick. I can do the local XC course (blankets creek) in the advanced time with it (and I'm certainly not in shape at 5'11' 210lb) because as long as there are no sustained climbs you can carry tons of speed from the previous downhill. Cant beat the price for this high quality a rig. Great for getting faster and faster over rough terrain, as it has saved me from my own lack of skill many times.
$
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating: