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Specialized
FSR XC Pro Disc
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Submitted by
darrinw2001
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa, Florida
Date Reviewed: October 26, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Balm-Boyette | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | individual used | | Strengths: | 2008 FSRxc Pro model is what I have. light weight, nice components with the Reba SL dual air fork, Fox triad shock. | | Weaknesses: | The rear triange has cable rub HOLE where rear brake cable touches, it actually ate through the metal completley. Found this after I bought it and took to the bike shop for a tune up. also a couple of good nicks in the aluminum from light crashes. the rear triangle seems very soft metal to have these issues this soon. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Cake 2 | | Bike Setup: | Rockshox Reba SL fork, Fox Triad Shock, Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires, ergon grips, Time Aluim Pedals, all else stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike is light and fast and hadels well over all. For the price I paid for it I an happy.
had to find updated air PSI setting information on the Fox Triad II shock as the settings in the book were wrong. They updated information to make the psi equal to the riders body weight, but I had to search for that info on the Specialized website after learning the settings in the book were not working right (tons of pedal bob).
The rear triangle seems very soft as the above mentioned cable rub hole is a cause for concern on a 2 year old bike, that is why I lowered the overall rating. I have put a chainstay protector on the other side to help with this problem (I hope).. If I were the original owner I would send it in for warranty replacment, but since I bought it used I cannot. Anyone who has this bike make sure you check the rear brake cable area on the triangle for this problem. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Fulton
a Racer
from Westmont, IL
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Palos Forest Preserve | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1195.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | climbs exceptionally well, very light and fast, sus works well together, nimble | | Weaknesses: | gearing different than my hardrock-just takes some getting used to, tires flat easy but grip great | | Similar Products Used: | hardrock, epic | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | excellent xc racer, very responsive and quick. I'm a big racer(6'3" 240lbs)and have yet to bottom out and have had no problems with the pedals hitting anything. Just make sure the suspension is pressurized properly for you weight and you will be fine. The bike is taking all the abuse I can dish out-DURABLE! This bike climbs like your being towed uphill and makes single track smooth as butter; surprising for my size and weight. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joker
a Racer
from Buffalo, NY
Date Reviewed: December 11, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Too many good ones ridden, too many more to try! | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Handlebars | | Strengths: | Lightweight, climbs well, nice geometry | | Weaknesses: | None noticed so far | | Similar Products Used: | Stumpjumper, Epic, Ironhorse MKiii, SC Superlight | | Bike Setup: | 2007 Specialized FSR Xc Pro, Reba Race front shock, Fox Triad rear shock, FSA xc-300 wheelset, Thompson seatpost, Avid 3 disc brakes, Shimano XT crankset, Easton Minkeylite Crabon handlebars, Crank Brother Candy C pedals | | Bottom Line: | I got a good deal on this bike through my local shop (Thanks Guys!). I asked them to swap some of my parts of my old ride (IH Mkiii) to lighten up the new bike. It comes in at about 26.5 lbs. A new rear cassette should get me close to 26. I wanted a lighter bike than I had and I kept spending money to lighten the old bike and it wasn't working. Bought this and wha-la! Nice light fast bike. I have ridden it on my local trails and in North Carolina. On leaves, dry ground, and 3 inches of snow. Rock gardens, water bars, log piles. It hasn't disappointed yet. The suspension, front and rear work great. The shifters work great, the brakes are fine. I took the big 180/200 mm rotors off and put on 160 mm rotors. It really climbs great. I was flying up hills on this bike compared to my old ride. On flats, it was quick and really handled well in the tight stuff.Haven't noticed any issues going downhill either. I ride the bike almost always in ProPedal, I have opened her up to full squish going downhill. Lockout works well going up non tech hills.
This bike has a lot to offer for the price. Especially if you already have the items you want to upgrade on it. Love the warranty! Lets hope I don't have to use, but it nice to have. I do a lot of racing so the 4 inches of travel fits my type of riding better than the Stumpy and the IH. The new 08 Stumpys are ugly anyway! I couldn't get the deal I was looking for on a Superlight, and right now I could care less. This bike is just what I was looking for. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank Myers
a Weekend Warrior
from Ocala FL
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Razorback | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1950.00 | | Purchased At: | Santos Bike Shop | | Strengths: | The bike is great it does everything my Epic Carbon did for half the price. This handles very well in all situations hills up or down, roots, rocks, sweepers, tech stuff a great bike for those that are looking for a bike to race but won't break the bank. | | Weaknesses: | I wish it had the Fox fork off my Epic, the Reba is a good fork but the Fox is just plain better. | | Similar Products Used: | Epic Marathon Carbon, Trek Fuel 98 | | Bottom Line: | If you want a true XC racer at a decent price this bike is for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ernesto
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Alafia (Tampa Area) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | This bike rocks!! Best deal for a full suspension bike. I've tested it on all the major trails in Florida and it has been solid and true. | | Weaknesses: | I haven't found one yet. | | Bottom Line: | This is the best buy for your buck. Full suspension, disc brakes, and a lifetime warranty on your frame for about $1,500. 2nd Specialized bike and still true. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott newell
a Cross Country Rider
from jacobstown new jersey united states
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | tasali north carolina | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | bike shop ?????? | | Strengths: | over all good bike fast stiff when you need it to be not much drag at all unless your dragging your own ass.... | | Weaknesses: | the tires the specilized tires suck they get flats every time out. nothing some WMB tires can fix..i even put those tires on my hardtail still flats. garbage.... | | Similar Products Used: | gt zasker team from when gt was still gt.... great bike light rock shox sid xc nice and stiff just how i like it but good on hard hits.... very light bike | | Bike Setup: | rock shox reba with lock out. rear shox??? lock out avid disc brakes maviv 221 i think.... great bike.. | | Bottom Line: | great bike i would tell someone to get this bike. and for the pedals hitting the ground once i can recall the pedals hitting the ground but i was because i had the pedal down when i was turning. maybe their shock is not fully inflated to their weight requirement. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rossi meh
a Cross Country Rider
from scotland
Date Reviewed: April 30, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | glentress v-trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | simon porteous cycles | | Strengths: | light, true, sleek, handsome, focused. | | Weaknesses: | pedal bottoms out and hits ground | | Similar Products Used: | mongoose teocali comp, gt zaskar le | | Bike Setup: | stock 06 FSR XC PRO/Rockshox Recon 531 SL/Fox Triad shock | | Bottom Line: | once i got the shock and forks to the proper psi rating the bike handled a lot beter. i'm quite a heavy rider at 90kgs, but the FSR takes all the punishment i can throw at it. it's very well behaved. the back end feels planted on loose stuff and the recon 531 sl fork holds true, tracks very well and makes the bike go wherever you point it. my bike came with avid juicy 5 brakes, which are astonishingly progressive and effective at high speed with no discernible fade whatsoever even after a whole day of being punished in all weather at the world class glentress trail center in bonny scotland. the only downside is the pedal clearance on climbs and bumpy ascents. i find myself paying far closer attention to trail obstacles such as rocks than with previous bikes due to the FSR's penchant for bottoming it's shimano spds out on any boulder bigger than your average potato. the tri position fox triad rear shock is very well matched with the rockshox recon front end and this makes for a very safe-feeling, sensible, fast and smooth ride. i love my FSR! i've never had a specialized bike til now having always been a gt fan, but i'd definately reccomend the FSR XC PRO. weekend trail riders who are more into all day epics than 10 foot hucks would get the best value from this dedicated, focused and driven xc bike. The rest of us would simply meet our own limits before finding the bike's. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver WA
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1377.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire | | Strengths: | Most of the trails I ride are very hilly. I find the bike climbs well because of the gearing and the suspension and breaks work good on the decent. The sitting position is comfortable.
| | Weaknesses: |
The biggest weakness of this bike is the peddle clearance. Even with the rear shock in the lock out position I am constantly hitting the peddles on the ground during the down stroke. Any small rock, root, rut, or mound that you come across peddling up hill your going to hit the peddles on. Going up hill in first gear you don't have the option of positioning your peddles for the terrain. Your are either peddling or your foot is on the ground. More colors would be good. | | Bottom Line: | Even though I find the bike comfortable and the components work good for me I would probably not recommend this bike because of the problem with the peddle ground clearance. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert
a
from Gainesville,Ga. USA
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Chicopee Woods | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Cartecay Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Good Frame & drive train | | Weaknesses: | Wheels, fork too heavy | | Similar Products Used: | Tomac, Trek | | Bike Setup: | Upgrades - Reba fork, Mavic Crossmax XL tubeless, Trek gel seat | | Bottom Line: | My first bike was Gary Fisher HT, OK. I debated spending the extra $ for Stumpjumper but settled with this bike - no regrets (other than the wheels). I have friends my size that have broke Tomac & Cannondale frames, this Specialized holds true. I've upgraded a few of the components, lockable rear shock ($75/ebay), recently added bottom bracket & frame bushings. I weigh 235 lbs, 6ft 4in, intermediate to advanced rider. Overall, very pleased with the bike, little maintenance, would purchase Specialized again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a Weekend Warrior
from Princeton jct, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | MCP | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | The full suspension, and great brakes help me go over trails that were too painful in the past. The Fox triad really absorbs the roots and ruts. The Avid brakes, once I got used to the power, let me set my line for perfect turns at speed.
Having the lockout is great on the flats or crossing on paths, letting me do less work when I'm off the trails or don't need a lot of travel. The SRAM setup is quick and I havn't blown a shift yet. | | Weaknesses: | The fox rear shock blew out on an 11 degree F day while getting on the bike, sfter stopping for a break. The loaner form the LBS had no problems and the new shock seems fine, but won't know until next winter if this will happen again.
The tires simply horrid. I have gotten two flats, both where a twig was pushed in by one of the knobs! Never had this kind of flat before, so off come these tires. Anyway they only seem to work on gravel and clean hard pack. any mud, snow, ice, grass, branches, slippery roots etc. upset the grip. They do sail across gravel though if that's the kind of terrain you have.
Also the pedals do hit bottom on compression, so have to be a little aware of this on the bigger bumps/logs.
Wish it came in more colors. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale R900 - lasted me 13 years, but was time for a new ride and FS :-) | | Bike Setup: | Stock plus a read shock mud flap and the spec. aluminum bar ends (snapped the shorter resin ones, not tough enough for me, I'm a big rider 6'1' and ride to lose weight) | | Bottom Line: | For the price, this is fantastic bike. The amount of travel is perfect for me and I have been able to do trails that were a chore for me on my last bike. The brakes really work wonders in snow and mud. So I'll change the tires and have exactly the bike I want for the type riding I want to do.
Off to change the tires..... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard Herndon
a Weekend Warrior
from Glen Rose, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: February 22, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Dinosaur Valley | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Rack, Granbury | | Strengths: | RockShox, Fox suspensions; Frame design; Avid juicy brakes; paint job (sweet lookin ride). | | Weaknesses: | I am not crazy about the tires. The Specialized pro 2.0 look bigger than they are. The tread design is a rock and dirt slinger. Saddle is like sitting on a brick. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Stock setup tuned to my body size and geometry. | | Bottom Line: | This bike has been a refreshing change compared to my hardtail. The full suspension is definitely a fun and smooth ride on very rough trails. FS is opening up new riding that I was missing before through technical sections. After you get things tuned in, it should give you miles of enjoyment. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joshua Caldwell
a Cross Country Rider
from Accokeek, MD USA
Date Reviewed: February 19, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Rosaryville State Park | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Won at a Muddy Buddy Race | | Strengths: | Great bike (especially for my money!), Love the dual suspension and the breaking is pretty good considering the brakes aren't hydrolic | | Weaknesses: | pedals a bit low to the ground, discs whine a bit | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | Stock setup with eggbeater pedals | | Bottom Line: | Great mid to higher end mtb, especially considering the cost (even if you pay retail). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brenon durston
a Racer
from dauphin,manitoba,canada
Date Reviewed: November 7, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Falcon trails | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1580.00 | | Purchased At: | Alpenland, lethbridge | | Strengths: | weight,lockout, and the fox float rear shock. i love the adjustability. the avid bb7 disc brakes. lots of power. | | Weaknesses: | the manitou splice's springs are too soft and i bottom out a lot. i am only 130 pounds. mud and gravel always get on the shock | | Similar Products Used: | specialized stumpjumper, specialized epic comp | | Bike Setup: | lizard skin over the rear shock. the reest is stock | | Bottom Line: | this is a great bike for the money. I use it for cross country racing and it works very well. the components are all great and the weight is fairly low.weighs a little more thatn an epic comp. anyone looking for a good dual suspension bike for a reasonable price should buy an fsr xc. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Cross Country Rider
from Northamprton, MA USA
Date Reviewed: September 22, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Strengths: | Awesome handling ( very maneuverable yet stable at speed ), Decently lightweight, aparently quite strong | | Weaknesses: | 1) Stock fork broke within 15 minutes of light trail riding. Replaced with Manitou Black Super Air.
2) Throwaway parts: The rear cassette and front rings are trash as are the shifters and brake levers but I still got a season out of them. | | Similar Products Used: | santa cruz blur, soecialized stumpjumper, trek fuel, cannondale jekyl | | Bike Setup: | Wheels, shifters, brake levers, cassette and front chainrings all replaced with higher grade parts. Black Super Air fork and Fox rp3 shock | | Bottom Line: | This is an incredible bike for the money, but be sure to get yourself some discount to cover for replacing the fork. The stock fork is useless.
The '05 FSR XC has taken me from beginner intermediate all the way to the point where none of my friends can keep up with me ( despite their lighter and more expensive bikes ) and I have taken some *actual* 6 foot drops with no sign of breakage or stress to the frame | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ryan elmer
a Weekend Warrior
from London, UK
Date Reviewed: August 6, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | leith hill "Barry knows best" | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2480.00 | | Purchased At: | Evans | | Strengths: | Light overall, light shocks, suspension | | Weaknesses: | low to ground, pedals often catch, especially when very rooty or on cambered trails, stock pedals are very bulky. I actually broke my first pair of v12 mags by catching a root!! | | Similar Products Used: | claud butler and specialized hardtails | | Bike Setup: | dmr v12 magnum pedals have replaced the stock, rock shox recon solo air, fox triad | | Bottom Line: | very good bike for the money, a definate choice for those looking for a first full susser. My skills and confidence have come on leeps since switching but if you are looking to hit those very rocky and rooty trails then your gonna want more clearance | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Doe
a Cross Country Rider
from Long Island NY
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Brands | | Strengths: | Just an overall sick bike, Super light, nice setup | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Intense 6.6 | | Bottom Line: | This is the bike to have | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Turner
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Australia
Date Reviewed: June 15, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Lane Cove Valley | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2995.00 | | Purchased At: | Northshore cycles | | Strengths: | Very light, dual sussy, Fox Triad rear shock rules | | Weaknesses: | frame scratches easy, components can be a little fragile in event of a heavy crash | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Hookooekoo 06, Raceline Extreme sport 03 | | Bike Setup: | Standard, rockshox front suspension, Avid Juicy 5's, shimano XT | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike for the short period time that I have ridden it. the ability to lock it out for city riding then switch it over to sussy mode for trail riding is great. As I found out on the weekend though, one heavy fall and I bent the rear derailler hanger beyond repair. quite a surprise from one used to falling a lot with little damage to his machine (five in one race is my personal best). Still it was easily fixed though pricy at $40 Aus. Then you pay for the best. Still the important thing is I am happy with the overall performance of the bike (except the seat that hurts then doesn't then does, odd really)
A good bike for hammering XC, with a little dh or cruising the city streets. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Owen
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, AB, CA
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | To Work | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | Unclaimed Property Auction | | Strengths: | XT Rear Derailer, Fox Float Shock, Hydraulic Dics Brakes, Lock-out Front Suspension | | Weaknesses: | Pedals, Wheels (Broken Spokes), Float Shock attachment bolt (sheared off). | | Similar Products Used: | IronHorse HollowPoint Team | | Bike Setup: | Clipless pedals, new seat& post (missing from bike at sale), new rear wheel, new chain and rear cassette. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike at the local auction of unclaimed property (stolen bikes that were never claimed by their owners) to ride to and from work after breaking my IronHorse's frame. It is a little small, but I've adjusted. It is a great bike. The suspension lockouts are great when commuting. Hydraulic brakes are THE way to go. It took less than 10 minutes to recharge the system and replace the pads. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fernando Cruz
a Weekend Warrior
from Sylmar, Ca. U.S.
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Red Box , Angeles National Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Super Go | | Strengths: | FSR suspension, XTR rear deraileur, Avid brakes, low price for a full susser, it's a Specialized! | | Weaknesses: | Manitou Splice front fork. Could be a little lighter, but it is right in there. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rock Hopper, Giant Iguana | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Minute 4, Mavic Crossland tubeless rims, Kenda tires Blue Groove (front) & Nevegal (rear), Fox Triad rear shock, LX Brake Levers and Pods | | Bottom Line: | This is my first full susser. I am very happy with it. You can't beat FSR. My friend rode mine and liked it so much that he bought an '06 that he is very happy with. The only problem that I had was the Manitou Splice, it came with was defective, it stopped working after a month of use. Since I live close to Answer Prod. I took it to them and they hooked me up with a Minute 2 which has worked out so great that I just bought an '06 Minute 4. Back to the bike, it pedals easy going up and fun coming down. I hit a boulder and bent the bar that goes from the seat stay to the drop out. I took it to my lbs and they got me a new one within days (Can't beat Specialized customer Service). Definitely the best deal for the money. If you are looking for your first Full Susser this is the one to get. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darol
a Cross Country Rider
from Carnation, Wa USA
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Tolt McDonald Park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Pacific Bicycle Co | | Strengths: | Rode many bikes and this was best for me. Triad rear shock rules. I'd have liked an air front and it now comes with one in 06. | | Weaknesses: | I nicknamed the seat "Satan's Codpiece" replaced it with WTB Rocket. Local dealer warranty support sucked when I had a chain jam resulting in derailleur breakage. Had to shell out $100. Wrote to Specialized but no word back as yet. | | Bike Setup: | Replaced Avid BB7s with Hayes 9 hydraulics. Much more power in braking department now. | | Bottom Line: | I love the bike. Didn't like dealer support after the sale on my warranty issue. What's the point in buying new if it's just like buying an e-bay bike? | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rui Silva
a Cross Country Rider
from Portugal
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Strengths: | Very nice frame, good geometry and beautiful fox rear suspension. Stable on descends and climbs extremely well. A very well balanced bike. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Hardtail bikes | | Bike Setup: | RShox Recon; Fox Triad; Avid Juicy 5 disk brakes; LX on crankset and cassette; xt rear derailleur; Deore shift levers | | Bottom Line: | Very well balance bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rui Filipe
a Weekend Warrior
from Lisbon, Portugal
Date Reviewed: December 6, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | trotes track | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Motovedras | | Strengths: | Very nice frame and rear suspension, when setup is right it's very smooth and stable on quick descends and on small track jumps (not downhill). best value for money. suprisingly forgiving in emergency situations. | | Weaknesses: | weak front suspension (manitou Elite), already sent to warranty and still bad, some low level components to what ball bearings is concerned. very nice saddle but not so good when hits the ground | | Similar Products Used: | Hardtail bikes:
Specialized S-Works
Rockhopper comp | | Bike Setup: | HAYES HFX9 disk brakes; LX on crankset and cassette; XT chain; and preparing to swap front suspension by marzochi AM1 and mavic crossmax wheels; lights for creepy night tracks | | Bottom Line: | very good frame indeed, very forgiving on real scary situations, appart from some minor issues the bike is very resistent and pleasent to ride in almost every conditions. if money allows only Stumpjumper FSR is better. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter Willson
a Cross Country Rider
from Naperville
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Knoch Knolls | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Spokes of Naperville | | Strengths: | Deore's shift smoothly. Strong welds. Fox triad rear shock is a beauty. Disc breaks stop on a dime. (break them in properly, i.e., 10-15 hard stops in the beginning) | | Weaknesses: | Low bottom bracket and peddals. Bottoms out alot. Tires are weak and black satin paint (2005 model) scratches easily. Front shock (Manitou Splice Elite) is already in the shop due to lost compression...this bike deserves a higher end Manitou. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper for years. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. Will change peddals to Eggbeaters from Shimano. Changing tires to Hutchinson Python Air. | | Bottom Line: | Specialized rocks, but a bit disappointed in the component setup (Manitou Splice Elite front fork). Low bottom bracket and wide handle bars make for some tough handling. Stock tires are weak and heavy. If you can get it for $200+ off retail, go for it!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from Alice Springs,NT, Australia
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Local | | Strengths: | Awesome frame, heavy duty welds, a little on the heavy side though. XT components, rear shock is great especially coming from a hardtail. Handles and climbs extremely well, is a very well balanced bike that just demands to go faster and harder every time. | | Weaknesses: | The pedals are a bit big and bullky have since changed to eggbeaters. Front manitou splice shock is a bit spongy . The pedal clearance height is low and had been hitting rocks and crap but not as frequent since changing pedals. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for pedals | | Bottom Line: | An awesome bike that loves being pushed to the limits. Makes every ride an experience to remember, the hydraulic brakes have awesome stopping power. I can't wait for my weekends to come to get out on this thing!! Looking for a good decent priced FS bike then this won't dissapoint !! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charlie Shivel
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Downhill section at Larch Mtn Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1050.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire Farm | | Strengths: | I know that this bike has been pushed already and my confidence has grown tremendously since I have been riding it.
It handles all the rocks you can throw at it. Everytime I see a rock that I am going to roll over I am convinced that I am toast ....seconds later I am laughing! :) | | Weaknesses: | When its smooth rolling downhill the front seems a little jumpy. I imagine a more heavy downhill or all mountain bike would feel more solid in these sections but its ability absorb is nothing shy of solid! | | Bike Setup: | stock as I mentioned in my other review below | | Bottom Line: | Just a heads up to some of you. This section is for 2004 FSR XC Pro Disc. If your bike aint Red then its in the wrong section. Some of you have your models and years mixed up. The pro disc is no more after 2004
After doing more intense riding with in the Northwest area I have full appreciation for the FSR. My skills have gone leaps and bounds every ride I have done. I have been on some intense downhill shale, big rock singletracks and moving fast I might add and this bike has kept me up when I thought I should have crashed. Brakes well and keeps me from getting seriously hurt. I love this bike, the only complaint that I have is when its smooth single track and going ~30mph the front is a bit twitchy. I have read bad reviews about the front fork but I have personally had good results with some serious bumps.
Chilis all around. Buddies have bikes that are in the 3 to 4 grand range. Mine is lighter and takes all of it just as well!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tristan
a Cross Country Rider
from Yakima, Wa, USA
Date Reviewed: April 28, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Valley Cycle | | Strengths: | XT Rear Derailer, Fox Float Shock, Hydraulic Dics Brakes (big plus) The 2004 XC Pro has better components than the 2005 and costs less. | | Weaknesses: | Front Derailer is Basic (but it is better than what I had before) Clipless pedals squeak. Extensive riding leaves you with a sore seat. | | Similar Products Used: | The only bikes that I rode before the XC Pro were hardtails and I'll never go back to them. Full suspension will get you from point A to point B much faster. | | Bike Setup: | The same as everyone else who bought this bike. | | Bottom Line: | If you enjoy biking but do not want to over spend, this bike has great components for the price and flat out hauls down hill. If you don't like something about it, upgrade!
Thank You Specialized! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charlie Shivel
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Hospital Hill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire Farm | | Strengths: | Bottom line is I got an $1100.00 bike with Hydraulic brakes and XT components...Not an easy task in that price range.
Proven full suspension bike with a good track record and again alot of bike for 1100 bucks. I bought last years model (2004) which is the way to go, you will find yourself getting more bike for your price range. | | Weaknesses: | I am already having shift problems with the front derailer, I hope its a result of cable stretch since its new. I don't like the seatpost req't height-seat post has to be at a certain position for the frame to be rigid. I have cut the post once and I will have another inch cut off this weekend.
Typical tires on a showroom bike that need to go.
Entry level front suspension fork (Axel Elite) will use though until it reaches its death. | | Similar Products Used: | I used to ride long before college took over. Had a hard tail Giant ATX 770 with a Manitou sport fork. Heavy bike that I was in love with for a long time. Looked at the Giant NRS. Bottom line-brake comparison of the two....no contest. Pro Disc was way up already when you look at the brakes. | | Bike Setup: | Axel Elite front fork / fox float R / XT components / shimano clipless-lower end I presume. | | Bottom Line: | No comparison of whats out there for 1000-15000. It was a good deal when it was 1500. Stole it for 1100!
Having disc brakes has changed the way I ride dramatically.
It feels good to have a bike that is almost to good for you. I have plenty of time to grow into it. I feel like its the wisest most researched decision I have ever made on a purchase of this magnitude.
Want a Full suspension bike with darn good parts? Can't get a stump jumper or an enduro. Overall good climber and a great downhill bike when you need it to be. Buddy of mine has an enduro and I ran behind him the whole way down. Feels good! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gret
a Cross Country Rider
from Salisbury, MD, USA
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Naylor Mill park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | RM Bike Sport | | Strengths: | Great components for the price. Nice looking black satin paint job. | | Weaknesses: | The pedals are a bit cheap and heavy, and the action on them aren't as smooth as I'd like. | | Similar Products Used: | None. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except I replaced the pedals with some expedos. | | Bottom Line: | As I'm new to XC and trail riding in general, my opinion is rather novice and myopic. However, before I bought the XC Pro, I rode the trails a few times on my (very) old GT Rebound. After being beat up and jostled around on the hardtail, the FS of the XC Pro made the trails much more enjoyable and got me hooked on riding. I've had to adjust both the front and back brakes because they were rubbing the rotor (this was very easy to do), but other than that, I love the Avid 7bb disc brakes. The front deraileur rubs the chain from time to time in gears that it shouldn't, but the guys at the shop have adjusted it to fix the problem.
I'm considering knocking an inch or two off of the handlebars, as they seem a bit wide for my shoulder width, and I'm considering new tires, as the Specialized tires seem a bit loose on sandy turns. But, overall, this is an ideal bike for a beginner or anyone who's looking for a solid FS bike with a good component package at a decent price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shannon C
a Racer
from Orlando, FL
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Snow hill, belview | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1850.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Works (East) ORLANDO | | Strengths: | Rear suspension, tires, frame | | Weaknesses: | Could use a better fork and clipless pedals. SPD isnt all that great for Mntbking because there can be a mud build up. | | Bike Setup: | Same setup as when I first got it but I changed out the pedals to some eggbeaters. | | Bottom Line: | Great bang for the buck by far. I have the 2005 model which is about 1850 retail. Worth every penny. I might eventually change out the fork but it is good for now.
Awesome, I love it. Great Flat black color. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SKINNY KNEES
a
from CHICAGO
Date Reviewed: March 5, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | ANY | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | KOZY | | Strengths: | Cool Looking frame, Fox triad rear shock, disc brakes, include clipless pedals. | | Weaknesses: | Possibly the rims, I prefer heavier and stronger wheels.
Stem a little too short. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Jekyll, Spec Hardrock comp and sport, Trek 800 and 4300, GT Avalanche, Schwinn Moab | | Bike Setup: | STOCK. | | Bottom Line: | This is my first FS bike. This bike basically blows away all the hardtails I've ridden. Even with the hard saddle and rear shock locked, the fsr pro still absorb bumps better than most of the hardtails I've tried. I bought the smallest size available and it complements my body well except I need a longer stem. Before purchasing the fsr, I looked into the trek ex 7, fuel 80, giant nrs, and cannondale jekyll. Didn't get the chance to check out the treks because none of the LBS around here have them. Went with the fsr pro because it looks the best, comes with decent components, and framest design. Also, I've had many specialized bikes in the past and still a firm believer of the company. Basically, if you never tried a full supension bike before and am considering one...don't even hesitate cause you will not regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crusty
a Weekend Warrior
from B'ham
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | All of 'em | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Ride-on Bikes | | Strengths: | Great fit for me. Decent parts. Durable. Geometry and design are spot on. Handles exceptionally well. | | Weaknesses: | None - don't care for pedals but not weakness of overall bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Lots | | Bike Setup: | 2005 FSR XC Pro - Platform pedals, new tires & grips. Everything else, stock till parts expire. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. First full suspension and love it - I believe I got a good design with the Specialized. Pro-pedal great on climbs. Handles beautifully. Having trouble bunnyhopping on it but weakness of the rider, not the bike. No regrets after having purchased this bike. Ride hard. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ripped & Worn
a Weekend Warrior
from GA
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything dirt, rocks, water | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Strengths: | Great fit, good design, saddle seems like a pain but it feels good-after your body adjusts to it, its hard to ride a mroe padded saddle. | | Weaknesses: | One weakness could be the front fork, haven't ridden enough yet to like it. Tires suk. | | Similar Products Used: | Everything | | Bike Setup: | Stock - changed to platforms - much better | | Bottom Line: | Great bike, first full suspension - came down between this, Kona Kikapu deluxe and Haro shift. After riding the other two, test rode the FSRXC Pro and it felt the best. Good handling, am used to hydraulic brakes but these Avid mechanical work great. Rear shock, Fox triad - awesome, like the propedal and the lockout feature. Great value and great put together bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mikey
a Cross Country Rider
from grimsby ont canada
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | short hills | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | all the right gears | | Strengths: | There are to many to list from the suspension to the brakes. Its nice to have a bike that stops . | | Weaknesses: | The only weakness is the seat. I hate it no matter how much padding I wear my butt still hurts | | Bike Setup: | the setup is basically the same as when I bought it. I put on a set of platform pedals and I changed the seat to a WTB LASER V | | Bottom Line: | All in all I love the bike . This is the second bike that I have from Specialized and it won't be my last I have had a couple of problems but the owner of the shop wear I bought it took care of them right away. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joel
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver
Date Reviewed: December 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Hall Ranch - Boulder | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Turin Bicycles | | Strengths: | *I have the Large 2005*: Perfect balance between hardtail response and all-mountain toughness. Disk brakes work great. Suspension is active when ya need it. Propedal shock stiffens-up on the flats. Top tube is not too long and not too short. The 100mm air sprung Fox Fork is un-frickin'-believable. I was a hardcore Marzocchi fan. Marzocchi still makes a good fork, but the Fox is a step above.
At just over 28 lbs, the bike is spec'd well and can be made even lighter. | | Weaknesses: | I look like an idiot because I can't stop grinning thinkin' how great the bike performs.
The Bottom Bracket is low. I'm bangin' pedals and crank arms on alotta sh!t. That makes the bike's ride more stable, but they're too low.
| | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain Element 50 and Kona Stinky Primo.
Primo is made to get you into AND out of trouble, but the head angle is pretty slack and it weighs nearly 30 lbs. Too much bike for me. Element was a close contender, but it was a 5" bike (all mountain). If I had cash for another bike I'd get the Element. The Specialized covers my bases very well. | | Bike Setup: | I changed to Eggbeater pedals and a Flite saddle with Ti rails. | | Bottom Line: | It's a great bike. If I could raise the bottom bracket a about a 1/2 an inch it would be perfect for my mixed- condition, fast XC trail riding style. I've had two 2000 FSRs and I'm probably an official Specialized FSR dork now, but I can't think of a good reason to have a hardtail and be a serious rider on the Front Range unless you just have to ride a 23lb bike. This is the best full suspension bike to ride without paying $1000+ or more on a Santa Cruz Blur. What more can I say without qualifying for a Factory sponsorship? "Ride Hard. Respect Others." | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick Thelen
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Saratoga Gap | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Trail Head Cyclery | | Strengths: | Great frame and geometry. Quick to climb and soaks up the hits. Nice component set for the price - the Deore hydraulic disks are fantastic. Overall a very comfortable, reliable and fast XC bike. I can stay on extended 50+ mile enduro trail rides no problem. | | Weaknesses: | Blew up the Manitou Axel Elite fork at just under 1000 miles - now I have an Marzocchi Marathon S. Rear pivot points squeak at about every 7-10 hours of riding - Ya must lube them consistently (UGH) | | Similar Products Used: | Hardtail FS Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | All Stock except Marz Marathon S Fork upgrade. Burned out the Specialized Roll-x tires and replaced with WTB Motoraptors (2.4 front, 2.24 rear). Cane Creek Ergo II bar ends that work well with my OURY lock on grips | | Bottom Line: | For a mid-range price this is a fantastic XC bike. Quick climber, reliabe components, and comfortable enough to hammer on all day.
The Manitou Axel Elite fork is the only real critique of the bike - it's kinda soft and not the highest quality.
I've put this bike through alot over the last 6 months and it still rides strong. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jen
a
from San Jose, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 19, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Wilder Ranch | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1305.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclepath | | Strengths: | This bike climbs like no other and the hydraulic discs are awesome. | | Weaknesses: | Both front and rear shocks take multiple adjustments to get it right and usually need some tweaking before each ride. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel 80 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, so far. | | Bottom Line: | It's definitely an XC bike, and if love XC then chances are you will love this bike. You'll beat all your friends on the uphill without even breaking a sweat. The disc brakes are smooth and provide the perfect amount of braking force in any situation.
I haven't quite figured out what it is yet (maybe it's just me!), but the bike seems squirrelly on tight corners. Also be sure the suspension is properly adjusted before barrelling downhill, esp on rugged terrain because it's highly sensitive. It's kind of a pain in the butt on trails with mixed terrain b/c you'll find yourself stopping to make adjustments.
If you plan to ride technical trails, you will need to upgrade the front fork at a minimum. More likely is you will need to look at a different bike altogether.
4 chili's overall for being a great bike for the $. Solid design all around, but somewhat limiting b/c well, it's an XC bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Hamilton Creek MTB park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Nashville Bicycle | | Strengths: | Very good suspension. Frame geometry is perfect for technical trails (good standover height). Specialized Body Geometry saddle is very comfortable. Climbs like a billy goat. | | Weaknesses: | Frame not made in USA (Taiwan) and also needs a better motor! : ) | | Similar Products Used: | Owned & used a Cannondale Super V-500, test rode a Trek Fuel 90, Gary Fisher Cake 3 DLX and Cake 4 DLX, Rocky Mountain Element 50, Marin Rift Zone & East Peak, Haro XLS R5. | | Bike Setup: | Large Frame, Fox Float R w/Pro Pedal Rear Shock (aired up to 220 psi), Manitou Axel Elite Fork, Shimano XT drive train, Shimano Disc Brakes, Saddle post sawwed-off to lower saddle a little below handlebar height. Set ROLL-X tires to | | Bottom Line: | Of all the bikes I test rode, this was the most comfortable ride for my 6'1"/220lbs body. I also liked the Rocky Mountain Element 50 (cost too much) and the Haro XLS R5 (same price as Specialized but no disc brakes or XT drive). The Specialized had the best value in components than all the other bikes tried. I've been able to climb hills that I couldn't make with my Cannondale. It is a light weight awesome ride. Shifts gears easily, handles well.
Consumer Reports (July 2004) rated the Speciallized FSR XC Pro (no discs) as #2. Cannondale Jekyll 400 (#1), Trek Fuel 80 (#3). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joe
a Cross Country Rider
from michigan
Date Reviewed: June 2, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | benson hill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Bottom Line: | This is a great cross country bike and works well with a tight budget. Speciallized really knows whatthey are doing and I'm glad they added the new fsr xc line this year. It handles great on almost any trail and the rear shock has no pedal bob. A great bike for anyone | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Wainscott
a Cross Country Rider
from Indianapolis, Indiana
Date Reviewed: February 20, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | 96th Street River Trails | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$13000.00 | | Purchased At: | Mathews Bicycles 96th Street | | Strengths: | This bike was what I was hoping for in a full suspension package! I weigh 190 lbs and under full crank the bike reacts as I hoped with very little if any flex or bobbing. Disc brakes are the way to go my friends! The new Fox Shox with Pro-Pedal feature is sweet as well. Specialized is to be commended for putting together a well thought out package. I would also like to give a special thanks to the guy's at Mathews Bicycle Shop at 96th street for taking good care of me and the set-up of my new kick butt machine! | | Weaknesses: | I did go ahead and replace the stem and seatpost with Race Face products. Put on a new specialized Telluride seat along with my pre-exisiting Speedplay pedals. | | Similar Products Used: | Had an orginal fullsuspension Giant ATX 980.....really no comperison. | | Bike Setup: | Purchased a size large for my 6'1" frame. Running 170 lbs in the rear Fox Shox. Other than that my new friends at Mathews Bike shop are responsible for making everything right on the bike. | | Bottom Line: | It is amazing how smooth this bike is on the trails and yet shoots right out of the pocket like a hardtail when you step into the cranks.
This is the bike for me! I plan on getting many many happy trail riding day's in the coming months and for that matter years. My hat off to Specialized for this one! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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