Click. Click. Click. 3.75", 4.5", and 5.6" of rear wheel travel. Going up or going down? Titus and Fox Shox have teamed up to provide the most versatile, easy-to-use, adjustable travel trail bike on the market. Just move the lever as you are riding to adjust to the travel you need. The Switchblade is totally redesigned for '03 with a new seat tower and hollow box chainstay. If you ride a variety of terrain, click the Switchblade up and down on the fly. The choice is yours.
Submitted by
Doug
a Cross Country Rider
from Pasadena, CA Date Reviewed: July 17, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$4399.00
Purchased At:
non-Titus dealer
Strengths:
Light, well made,cool monoque design, clean welds, Hoist-link, 5" travel trail bike. GREAT customer service
Weaknesses:
They made these with V-brake post and cable guides.
Similar Products Used:
none. my first full suspension bike
Bike Setup:
5Th Element Air, Minute 2 130mm,Easton XC90 ML riser, Thompson 70mm stem, CK HS, Sram XO GS, Hayes Mag Plus 6", XT fr.der, XO rear, Thompson seatpost.Salsa Lip lock binder WTB rocket SL saddle. CK disc hubs with Mavic 819, Nokian NBX 2.3 tires, RF Dues X-type cranks and BB. Shimano XTR pedals. around 27-28# depending on tires
Bottom Line:
This is a light 5" travel trail bike. Great for epic rides, a very effective climber on technical stuff. I did not get the Talas version because I just don't want to fuss with travel and height variations. The same reason I don't lower my seat for descents. The Talas fork would have been nice for steep climbs but I opted for stable platform. Fox did not have their Terrilogic 5" fork yet. It took a while to set up this bike and I try to remember and check it every month. Air shocks are not made for hucking and I try not to go off too big of drops when able to avoid. This is not a plush big hit all mountain bike nor a harsh ball beating XC racing bike. It's a set it and forget it, epic trial riding bike. Go to a TITUS dealer and make sure you are specific about every detail and option. BTW, I sent back my swingarm so I could get the disc only version. I also got the wider chain stays.Then I found out I had the short travel rockers and shock so I bought new rockers and Progressive was cool about replacing my shock with a longer one. Like I said a TITUS dealer.My first shock had to be replaced(warranty:) Happy riding!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Racer
from Palm City FL USA Date Reviewed: March 11, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Village Bike in Hobe Sound FL
Strengths:
No flex in rear suspension, adjustability, PROPEDAL version of TALAS shock eliminates bobbing in full travel mode. Titus customer service and their commitment to the customer's needs has to be considered a strong strength.
Weaknesses:
Limited range of adjustability and lack of QR clamp on seat post, if you're into changing it often. If not, it's a moot point. If you're into running some of the new generation, lightweight fatty-fat tires on the rear you may run into clearance issues.
Similar Products Used:
have owned or still own the following: 02 switchblade, '03 racer-X, '03 heckler, '04 TALAS switchblade. Have ridden countless other top-quality rides of friends.
Bike Setup:
The bike is set up as a true trail/play bike and is only used as such. TALAS RLC fork, RF Next LP ISIS cranks, thomson post/stem, AVID juicy disks, MAXM bars, XTR everything, AM classic hubs, mavic 317 rims, intense CC 2.25 up front, WTB mutanoraptor race on rear.
Bottom Line:
Bike handles very well, geometry is a little "quick" and is great for slow-speed trailwork. TALAS feature is great, but the thing rides so good in full travel mode you won't really use it. Overall a great trailbike. If you can only own one bike and really did 95% trailriding but also wanted to enter an occasional race on it, this might be the bike for you. You could build this thing fairly light and be competetive in the sport class on it in the short travel setup, and still romp around on the trails with it for the rest of the year. If you are looking for a serious race bike, get a racer-X and keep the switchblade as a play/trail bike, as they complement each other well.
A word about tires and clearance in reference to earlier posts since a lot of us like to run large volume tires in our trailbikes: some of the tire width depends on how wide of a rim it's on. But the biggest issue is that most manufacturers simply call their tires "2.5" when in fact they may only measure 2.1" in width. Hard to believe, right??. If you have any questions on true tire widths, try this site: http://www.themudzone.com
Right now I am running a Mavic 317 rim F&R, which is a pretty narrow rim and not ideal for running the fat tires. In this setup with the Mutanorapter 2.4, it's about as fat as you can go on the back without rubbing. I am having a set of wheels built with a 27mm wide arrow racing XCL rim, which will probably make the tires even wider, and we'll see how the clearance is then. Post me if you're interested in the clearance issue, I can send some pics.
Overall you can't go wrong with Titus or a switchblade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SBRider
a
from Phila Date Reviewed: March 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This is a 04 Talas/Propedal, the bike is a great, it excels in every aspect. I tried the 5th air on it as well but opted to keep the talas because of what it offered with adjustability and most importantly durability. It is a perfect do everything bike
Weaknesses:
NONE..to knock it's rating cause ya can't fit a giant tire on XC BIKE is ridiculous!!
Similar Products Used:
Spec.FSR, 01 Switchblade[5.7"], Superlight, Turner XCE, Giant AC - All are nice bikes
Titus did hit a homer with this bike cause it handles everything very well, goes up and down great, handles extremly well in every setting.. VERY STIFF.. can be built up pretty light, great do anything bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duncan Hattingh
a Weekend Warrior
from South Africa Date Reviewed: March 4, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tokai
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2040.00
Purchased At:
Bowmans Cyceles
Strengths:
Looks,Ride,Design,Weight.
Weaknesses:
Weaknesses , where ?
Similar Products Used:
Nothing like it where I live to try out.
Bike Setup:
Blue Switchblade , Med , Std Float RL Black Super Air "100/120" -100 used Cross Max UST Maxim Carbon Bar and Seat post. XT group set with XTR rear mech and brakes. King headset Gore cables.
Bike weight 26 lb
Bottom Line:
The first ride on the bike I hated it,I was so pissed that I had spent all this cash on something I am going to hate.The bike was Squatting in the back when climbing and it felt awful .. I was out of control on tight singletrack and was all over the place.
I changed one thing on the bike from my first ride , My stem. I had put all the components on from my Sugar over on to my SB ,including the short stem used for the geneses geometry. After putting a 110 ml stem it changed the whole way the bike handled. This bike fly's , not as plush as I though it would be , until I got back onto my hardtail... OUCH .I love this bike,and don't notice the squatting at all anymore and managed to climb a loose steep climb I had never been able to do before. In the short 2 weeks that I have had the bike I have used the Lockout once ..and that was a tar road sprint with one of my track cycling buddies.I suppose a propedal will make the lockout redundant. and that the guys from Push Industries can do wonders with floats .I am happy with everything on the bike and if the shock had to give problems I will have the Push Industries conversion done. I would suggest this bike to anyone looking for a balanced bike that smoothes out anything you can throw at it.Someone who is faced with steep loose climbs followed by tight root infested singletrack.
Look it is expensive and I cant justify to you how to spend your money. But I have no regrets at all, and am in the process of saving up for another bike from Titus for my partner.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Bowers
a Cross Country Rider
from Chester/Lake Almanor,Ca. USA Date Reviewed: January 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Downieville Ca. is MTB heaven
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Roaring Mouse Cycles
Strengths:
See below.
Weaknesses:
See below.
Bottom Line:
This is a response to a few guys whose reviews complained about the rear end on the 'Blade being too tight to fit anything but a 2.1 tire. READ ON -
HERE'S THE TRUTH: - Either they have old, 02 'Blades that might have had tight clearance, or they are making it up. My '03 'Blade EASILY fits a Nokian 2.3 in the rear, which I ran at Downieville(the place is fast & deadly),with no rubbing at all. I ran a Tioga 2.5 in the front, both of which were perfect for downhill runs. Downieville would have exposed any weaknesses running a 2.3 in the rear; no problems at all, worked perfect.I actually thought about trying to sqeeze a 2.5 Michelin Hot S in the back, but its probably too much. A skinny 2.4 might fit however. Do your homework & check out everything you hear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan E.
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Date Reviewed: January 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
White Pine near Fort Collins
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
The Cycologist - Fort Collins, CO
Strengths:
Exceptional build quality in all respects.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Old GT Hardtail for many years
Bike Setup:
Talas front & rear, XT drivetrain, Hayes disc, Thomson, etc. etc.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review from my first posting. I've had the bike for just over 9 months now, and logged about 700 or so miles.
Everything I said the first time still stands, however I must admit I am very surprised at how well the bike has stood up to abuse. After many many miles of rough singletrack, hellacious climbs, and killer descents this bike still feels like new. It actually took a few months of hard riding to really feel comfortable on the bike and realize its full potential.
I have no doubt become a better rider in every aspect - climbing, descending, and technical ability. I think the best rides are still yet to come, as every week this bike gives me more and more confidence.
The pivots and all those little things you worry about on a FS bike have given me no problems. The TALAS rear shock has been flawless, and I find myself actually using the different settings. The bike definitely has a different ride quality when it's in short mode vs. long travel mode.
A few other notes - I switched over to the Stans No Tube system and they work awesome - major difference in ride quality, I highly reccomend trying them.
One of the best deals about this bike is still where I bought it - from The Cycologist in Fort Collins (www.thecycologist.com). I ride with the guy almost every week and he runs an A+ outfit. Check him out if you want to buy this bike, or any bike - he can ship anywhere and is the real deal.
The Switchblade is an awesome, awesome bike that for some reason does not get a lot of press. Go demo one and find out for yourself what a great secret it is. Absolutely no complaints whatsoever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Bowers
a Cross Country Rider
from Chester, Ca USA Date Reviewed: January 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Downieville, Ca.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Roaring Mouse Cycles, San Fran.
Strengths:
A technological marvel. Fox Air Talus shock is spectacular. Adjustable travel: 3.7,4.5 & 5.7" & lockout option=like 4 bikes in one.Builds up light.Has lower Horst-link pivots.A tough,do*it*all frame.Anodized & shock options.A knowledgable,old school company.Great customer service. Welds are perfect,CNC pieces are perfect, burly rear tubing. Worth the $$$$$$$. I'm very, very happy with this frame & company. YOU MUST TEST RIDE ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Weaknesses:
Petty stuff. Cannot use remote Fox thumb lock-out kit for rear shock.Expensive.Stock stickers/decals are hideous-finishing cosmetic touches could be better.Hard to clean, i.e., lots of nooks and crannies.Tight rear shock clearance.Watch the pivots.Interrupted seat tube design means cutting off seatposts - a pain. Should have disc brake cable guides integrated into frame.
Similar Products Used:
2 ProFlex's,A flexy Mongoose Amp & 2 awesome Turners: A Burner & XCE. Will only ride "real" Horst-link pivot, fully active frame designs.
Bike Setup:
Fox RLC Talus,Full XTR disc,XT levers/shifters, Easton,King,Thompson,Mavic,SLR,Michelin.Custom gold anodizing.
Bottom Line:
If you can only afford one bike, this bike does it all. Great for Cross Country & freeride, and it can handle moderate hucking and basic downhill use.This frame deserves more acknowledgement from the cycling press;it is mostly unknown, but it excels in all respects!!!!!!!!!!!! The Fox Talus rear shock and fork perfectly compliment each other. My bike is 25.5lbs,(no stupid light parts)with 5" of travel."Freeride" cannot get any better than this. It's like 4 bikes in one: 3.7,4.5.,5.7" travel & lockout. Handles well, well balanced front to rear: good weight distrubution. I believe in quality & only ride high-end, boutique maker frames. The Titus Switchblade is one of the best on the market, with Turner, Santacruz, Intense, etc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Racer
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: January 2, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Titus
Strengths:
Versatility, durability, and rideability!
Weaknesses:
You end up riding around with a silly grin on your face all the time.
Similar Products Used:
Racer-X, Fuel, Truth, Super-light, Obed
Bike Setup:
Fox TALAS fork and shock, XT components, Hayes HFX Mag Plus, Bontrager Race Disc Wheels, Selle Italia saddle, Egg Beaters
Bottom Line:
Having thoroughly enjoyed racing my Racer-X for a year I bought this bike as a "FUN" bike. The truth is, this bike rocks! If you can only live with one mountain bike, then this is it. The TALAS functionality really adds to the fun factor. With the suspension dialed down to 3.75" and with race tires the bike feels exactly like my Racer-X. It wants to climb and accelerate like a great race bike. With the suspension set at 4.5" the fun begins. On really nasty high speed descents, I'll set it at 5.6" and feel like a hero. Set the fork to full travel and set the rear to 4.5" and the bike becomes stable on real steep descents. Changing travel is so easy. You can change travel while riding, pedaling or coasting. Titus has nailed it when it comes to an efficient full suspension design. The Racer-X and the Switchblade share the same suspension geometry and efficiency. The rear suspension tracks the terrain like it's part of the ground. You can lay power down and the bike will accelerate. No worries about losing grip on even the steepest and loosest climbs. A fully active rear suspension is the only way to go. Why have a rear suspension that locks out when you are in your lowest gear and you need the suspension the most? Avoid bikes that lock out with chain tension. I'm not sure what Timo from Albuquerque (see below) is talking about when he says that he can only fit a 2.1" tire in the rear. The 2.25" IRC Trailbear that Titus sent with the bike fits with 1/4" to spare on either side. My bike was one of the first 2003 bikes made and I'm told that it was the first 2003 Switchblade in Canada. So it's definitely not a problem on 2003 bikes. If you're looking for the best thoroughbred race bike, look at the Racer-X. If you need a versatile mountain bike that can be raced, ridden on epic rides, and take some drops and nasty descents, the Switchblade is right on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Timo
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque Date Reviewed: December 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Agate
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3850.00
Purchased At:
Wrench Science
Strengths:
Versatility, etc. We know the details
Weaknesses:
Rear Triangle will not support most tires wider than 2.1. Serious shortcoming of the bike and Titus does not want to make the rear end any bigger.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro, Giant VT1, Tomac Eli
Bike Setup:
SRAM X.0, Talas all the way, Race Face, Easton, Thompson, Hayes/Avid.
Bottom Line:
Good bike and Itend to ride it either in XC mode or in full travel, but usually not too much in between. XC mode for burning through the trails and full travel for the gnarly.
Bike is good, but Titus did not hit a homerun here. I spent the money, I enjoy the bike - put well over 1000-miles on it this summer - but the bottom line is they really failed with the narrow rear end.
A 5.75" travel bike that only allows 2.1-in tires just won't cut it on some of our "axe-head" embedded rocky trails out here. We need beef on the rims, and titus seems to think that by allowing larger tires people will start hucking this bike. Baloney.
I complained to Titus and they offered to sell me Quasimoto rear end. Wish they would just widen the end to allow at least a 2.4 WTB.
So, while I like the bike. I doesn't get a 5.0
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: December 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Devils Gulch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bicycle Center of Everett,WA
Strengths:
New 5th Element Air with 5 inches stable/platform pedaling, super adjustable,highly responsive/plush, fast/light; climbs all day long and rocks and rolls on the way down. Awesome craftmanship/beautiful welding
Weaknesses:
For a light/weight trail bike with 5 inches of stable/platform pedaling...NO limitations, the bike is a work or art.
Similar Products Used:
02 Ellsworth ID,2003 Santa Cruz Heckler/Blur/Superlight,Uzzi/SLX, Giant AC Air
Bike Setup:
Medium Black/Ano,5th Element Air,TalasRLC,Race Face Carbon NextLP, Hope Mini,Mavic CrossMax SL,Thompson stem/seatpost,LazerTi, Nokian NBX XC
Bottom Line:
I upgraded my bike from the 04 Talas Propedal to the 5th Element Air shock with 5 inches of stable platform pedaling. The 5th Element Air rides like the 5th Element Coil-Over shock I had on my Heckler-it's Awesome. The 5th Element Air is way more adjustable than the Talas and is way more plush. Going up over logs and boulders reminds me of how the Romic felt on my Id; the 5th Element Air made the Switchblade a way more stable bike(IMO).In addition, I dropped about half a pound with the 5th Element.
By the way-Progressive Suspension's customer service and tech support is incredible. They revalved my shock and custom tuned it for my weight and riding style and they provided me with one day turn around time;I sent my shock in on Monday night and it was in the shop and back on my bike on Wednesday-I call that quality service. and they paid for return shipping the same way I shpped it-Overnight.
The Switchblade is truly one of the highest quality trail bikes made; bikes don't get better than the Switchblade, they only get more specific to your riding style.
I wanted bike with 5 inches of rear wheel travel that would handle well on tight/twisty mountain trails and track well on rapid decents. So far, the Switchblade has performed like a champ over everything that has come my way. In addition, this bike has more than paid for itself by carrying me over, around and through some very narrow escapes.
Big thanks to Chris,Stephanie,Allen at Titus and all the crew at Progressive Suspension and big thanks for all the awesome support from Bicycle Centers of Everett/Silver Lake, WA; you guys rock
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Weekend Warrior
from Redwood City, CA USA Date Reviewed: October 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs Steam Donkey Giant Salamander
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Works HMB
Strengths:
Excels in every aspect of mtn. biking, single track, gnarly downhill sections with baby heads, climbs great, SUPER well built, looks very cool.
Weaknesses:
Weaknesses? We don't need no stinkin' weaknesses!
Similar Products Used:
Titus Racer RX, Specialized StumpJumper
Bike Setup:
Chris King, Hayes, XT, Psylo
Bottom Line:
This bike is waaaaay too fun. I was a hard-tail snob for a few years, tried a few of my friends full suspension rigs and realized I needed to take the plunge. Had the SB set up perfectly for me at Bike Works, thanks Matt & Chris! I took a long look at other bikes but the closer you look at Titus, the more solid the construction is, not to mention the SB looks like it should be in the Smithsonian. These suckas are built to last and are pieces of art. In terms of performance, I'm still getting used to the fact that the SB will bail my ass out of trouble if I give it a chance, and I need bailing out quite often! The balance and geometry on this thing are amazing. If you're shopping for a full suspension rig that does it all, you've found your rig. 5 scorchin' hot chilis. Nuff said.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a Cross Country Rider
from seattle, wa Date Reviewed: September 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Victoria Tract/Pillchuck Tree Farm
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Titus via Bicycle Center of Everett
Strengths:
Excellent craftmanship,awesome geometry, perfect ballance between cross country and freeride = #1 trail bike. Stephanie, Chris and Alan provide consitent/quality customer centered service.
Weaknesses:
Instead of Switchblade, I think Chris should have named the bike Swissblade; like the Swiss Army knife, this bike has several special applications.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler, Superlight, Blur and Elssworth ID
On the trail, the Switchblade is quick, stable and sure-footed; it climbs better than the other bikes I've owned. On a technical trail, the Switchblade out performs the other bikes I've had because of it's perfect ballance, awesome suspension, quick handling and light weight.
My bike weighs just under 27lbs and I've got 5.6 inches of plush rear wheel travel and 5 inches up front-hard to beat.
The Talas ProPedal is an awesome set up; you get a stable platform ride with adjustable travel-it doesn't get much better.
I'm a heavy rider so I use the extended travel setting most of the time. In the extended position, the Talas/Switchblade combination provides a stable ride going up and down the mountain.
In terms of stability, the Uzzi SLX and the Switchblade are evenly matched;where they separate is in their intended application. The Uzzi SLX is a heavy duty machine built for hardcore riding and racing, the Switchblade is a light weight trail bike; I think it's awesome the way both bikes perform like magic on the trail.
On the trail, the Switchblade blows the Heckler and Id away when it comes to performance. The Switchblace is simply a better handing bike when you put it to the test; the bike is magic.
The 04 Switchblade will be available with the Talas ProPedal or the new 5th Element air shock-I'm not sure about the availability of the Float models.
Chris says the Switchblade with the 5th Element rear shock will give you 5 inches of stable platform pedaling where the Talas ProPedal will provide 5.6 inches and a more plush ride. Consider how you want the bike to preform and what you want it to do before you choose a particular set up;Either way you go you're in for an awesome ride.
So far the Switchblade is exactly what I've been looking for in a bike, it handles technical stuff well and climbs like a cat. I've managed stay up on this bike way better than any of the other bikes I've had. Like they say in the other reviews, you really get what you pay for with the Switchblade-money well spent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jose Antonio Soares
a Cross Country Rider
from Brasilia DF Brasil Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Everyone plenty of singletrack.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Superbike 101.
Strengths:
Anodized option; component customization; simple graphics (I hate fancy stickers); good customer service; active suspension.
Weaknesses:
Bushing on Horst link instead of sealed cartridge; cable routing on rear shock area.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Superlight; Giant NRS. Not so similar, because I guess only Trek Liquid can be matched as similar.
Bike Setup:
Fox TALAS front and rear; XTR disc kit; Mavic X317; MAXM seatpost and low rise handlebar.
Bottom Line:
First of all, the weakness is lowermost compared to the whole. Customer service, provided by Alan and Eric, makes the difference. The other reviews stated a lot on this bike, so I'll try to make personal point of views. Changing the bike geometry is a big plus when you get used to. The comfort is awesome on long rides. As a Litespeed Tellico owner, I thoughted that climbing would be more difficult due to extra weight and suspension movement, but, for my big surprise, I'm climbing in a more efficient fashion with this bike. When the trail points down, then, my riding buddies call a plastic surgeon to remove that fancy smile going ear to ear on my face.
My final quote is, if you want a trail bike to enjoy the heart and soul of mountain biking, this is one great machine and, picking a good component selection, the final weight is very reasonable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Flash Mofo
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, Wa. USA Date Reviewed: August 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the poach
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
friend at titus dealer shop
Strengths:
amazing verstaility, great craftsmanship, light weight, strength, and awesome 4-bar suspension
Weaknesses:
won't accept a coil over shock. air shock not ideal for 5.7" travel- too progressive. Still great though.
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz superlight (owned) santa cruz heckler, titus racer-x, ellsworth truth and Id, Kona stinky & bear (ridden buddies off road at length)
Bike Setup:
5.7" travel kit with remote lock-out, Marzocchi Z-1 free-ride fork, XT with dics, king headset and hubs
Bottom Line:
This is a bit of a follow up review- I bought mine in late 2002 right as the talus was anounced. initially I was bummed to miss out on the talus but as soon as I got the bike I was very happy- plus I got the frame very cheap.. Originally I set it up with the 4.5" linkage and a 4" marzocchi MX pro ETA fork. As the bike opened up new doors for my riding style, I felt it was time to try more travel. I found a used 5.7"travel kit and bought a marzocchi Z-1 coil fork. The bike has been even better set up like this. I've taken it up to whistler and done 5' to flat wheelie drops on it. I've endo'd it off of stunts. No problems. It climbs just as good as it did with the shorter travel, even better now with remote lock-out.
Talus is a great idea, but I'm totally OK with not having it. In fact, I'm happy I don't. Too many switches and settings to think about while I ride- I prefer a simple bike. Plus, how often does one want less travel? In any case, get the talus if you want it. Just know that if you're on a budget, want to shave a tiny bit of weight, or just want a no-frills version of the switch, you will be happy without the talus.
Don't be afraid to put a 5" fork on this bike- it LOVES it.
My only complaint; I wish I could run a coil-over shock. Tuning a 6" travel air shock is tricky- it's going to ramp up fast. Maybe a fox AVA air shock might be better for this. I think a coil shock would be easier to tune, to provide a compromise between getting full travel and getting the bike to not sag too much. Anyway it's nit-picking- I love this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Skip
a Cross Country Rider
from AZ, USA Date Reviewed: August 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Little Bear Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Absolute Bikes, Flagstaff, AZ
Strengths:
Extremely well built, attention to detail.
Talus adjustability allows you to fine tune your geometry and suspesion to the trail you are on.
Very solid stable feel on long climbs.
Tracks very well at speed in ugly stuff
Weaknesses:
Price, if you dont like spending money.
Few rear shock options, fortunately the Fox Talus works well.
Bike Setup:
Talus front and rear, XT/XTR, Avid brakes, 2.4 WTB Mutanoraptor tires.
Bottom Line:
There are a lot of great bikes out there and this is one of the best. On the fly adjustability may not be needed by everyone, but is a nice addition.
Titus and Absolute Bikes provided excellent customer sevice. I had gone to the other bike shop to check out the Blur, and was handed a manual. I went to Absolute and talked to Anthony who was excited about the Titus bikes and knew the equipment very well. I spent $1000 more on then I had planned because of a fine product, and good customer service.
Thanks!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stewy
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: August 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
CyB Wales
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
Titus UK
Strengths:
Solid, Strong, does what 4 bars do best. Climbs too easily on steep rocky ground, and is a demon on fast tight singletrack. So far used it for short really rocky technical blasts, day long enduro rides, and 24 hr races, but haven't managed to find aweakness yet. I came across Titus UK at a fat Tyre Festival, and they let me take a bike out on test in Coed y Brenin.
Weaknesses:
Cable routing around the shock area could be better
Similar Products Used:
GT STS, Marin Mt Vision Pro
Bike Setup:
Talus F&R, XTR Drivetrain, Hope Mini brakes, Hope hubs on x3.1 UST, Maxms, Race face cranks &BB, Conti VerticalPro 2.3
Bottom Line:
Gives you way too much confidence and leads you into horrible situations, but if you hang on, it somehow manages to get you out of them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Cross Country Rider
from Jamestown, New York Date Reviewed: July 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ellicottville
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Strengths:
1. Handling. Very stable at speed and in technical situations but also climbs very well and corners well. Just seems to do everything well. 2. Four bar suspension with Horst linkage. Suspension is very smooth and active whether breaking or pedalling. Despite all of the latest advances in anti-bob technology I have no complaints with its performance and I honestly notice no pedal induced bobbing while pedalling seated. I bet it will ride even better with one of the new stable platform type shocks. 3. Titus customer service is great. Just ask for Alan at Titus and he will help you select the proper model, size, components, and answer all questions. The wrong fork got shipped by mistake and the correct one arrived within days no questions or hassles. 4. Looks. Blue anodized frame is gorgeous. 5. Build quality and attention to detail is second to none. Just a damn well built sturdy bike. No noticeable frame flex.
Weaknesses:
1. Price. You get what you pay for. 2. I am told that anodized colors eventually fade with prolonged ultraviolet (sun) exposure.
Similar Products Used:
Owned and rode Trek Fuel for two years (not a bad bike but does not have same great handling or suspension performance). Demo'ed a Santa Cruz Superlight for three rides/six hours of riding (also a great handling bike but suspension stiffened noticeably during hard breaking).
Bike Setup:
XT, Avid mechanicals with Full Metal Jackets, Black Super Air 100/80, Thomson, Cane Creek Aheadseat, Mavic 317 rims/XT hubs, Fox Float RL (did not choose Talas option)
Bottom Line:
Very stable, confidence boosting, awesome handling bike that fulfilled all expectations. If I could choose any single bike to own I would pick this one. This bike would appeal most to trail riders who favor a plush suspension and stable handling over maximum pedalling efficiency and quick steering.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Henry
a Cross Country Rider
from Centennial Colorado Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
"Wrench Science
Strengths:
Quality is unsurpassed, the talas shock does exactly what it calaims to do, rock solid on the climbs and the decents.
Weaknesses:
hard to get to the rebound control on the Talas shock minor wha wha None that I can tell
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Truth, Intense Tacer
Bike Setup:
Scram X.0, XT, king hubs avid ti brakes&levers,monkey lite, easton grahite SP, race face duce, Fox fork TalasRL.
Bottom Line:
I won't go into details because the other reviews cover most everthing very well. This bike is worth every penny, No BS,its expensive and worth it if you are serious about having a bike that will do everthing well.It climbs better than anything I've every ridden and is very plush without being mushy or soft, incredibly stable at high speed, confidence inspiring, the craftsmanship is impecable. It does exactly what it claims to do and MORE. My first rides were amazing and I could'nt get over how well the bike performed. It does everthing well,The Talas shock works as advertised, and so does the fork. If your looking for a do it all bike this is it if you can swing the $. I rode a Racer X for 3 years and loved it, thats why I went with the blade, it was and is the right choice. Alan is great to work with as is Chris C. Top shelf Co.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris C.
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, Utah Date Reviewed: June 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Moab Slickrock
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3950.00
Purchased At:
Golsan Cycles
Strengths:
The Switchblade combines great looks with outstanding function. Quality of frame construction is as good as it gets. Blue anodizing gives this bike a cool look unlike anything with paint on it. Low standover height provides generous clearance. Great geometry. Plush, yet very efficient-pedaling suspension design. This bike is incredibly versitile- the TALAS fork and shock allow the bike to adapt to any trail condition on the fly. For a nearly 6-inch travel rig (with hydraulic discs), this bike is light (~27lbs.). Titus customer service is outstanding.
Weaknesses:
These bikes are high in demand, but apparently low in supply. It took Titus nearly 6 months to ship my order. It was a good thing that I ordered mine back in December. Then there's the high price. Other than that, I get some rear derailleur slap on the right chainstay (fixed as described below). That's about it though.
Large, blue anodized frame, w/ Fox Float TALAS RLC fork, Fox Float TALAS R rear shock, XT drivetrain, Hayes Mag Plus hydraulic disc brakes, Mavic X317 disc/XT wheelset, Easton Monkey Lite Lo Rise carbon bar, Titus stem (115mm, +8 degree rise), IRC Mythos XC 2.1K tires, Thompson Elite 320mm post, Shimano 959 pedals. Bike weighs ~27lbs.
Bottom Line:
This bike rips!
My reason for buying the Switchblade was to replace my lightweight, short-travel, XC-oriented Diamondback V8 with a longer-travel, more capable trailbike that I could thrash and bash on the rough and technical trails that I ride here in Utah. My Switchblade has not disappointed me. After riding the bike for about 2 months now, I have to say that this is the best riding trailbike that I've ever thrown a leg over!
Like Greg below, I was sold on the Switchblade after demoing one down in Moab last fall. Moab has the perfect variety of terrain to provide the ideal test conditions for any trail bike. On my first ride, I was able to clean sections on the Amasa Back trail that I wouldn't have dared to try on my old Diamondback V8.
I debated about the frame size (medium vs. large), but made the right choice with the large. I am 6ft. tall with long legs, and the large gives me the ideal fit. A medium would have been too cramped.
The versatility of this bike is outstanding! The on the fly travel-adjust feature of the Fox TALAS fork and shock give this bike a spectrum of performance capabilities ranging from efficient-pedaling short-travel XC, all the way up to light-duty freeride. By differentially adjusting the front vs. rear travel, it is possible to alter the effective head angle of the bike, and therefore dial in the optimal ride characteristics for ascending or descending.
As for the ride quality, this bike does everything well. It is a good, efficient climber when set in the 3.5 inch travel mode front and rear. For more technical ascents, the head angle can be steepened by keeping the fork set at 3.5 inches, but extending the rear shock to the 4.5 inch travel position. This configuration keeps the front end manageable, and allows the rear wheel to stay glued to the trail on the steep and loose stuff.
The descents however, are where the Switchblade really shines. In the long-travel mode, the bike floats over just about everything. Rocks, roots, stumps, drops, whatever... the bike handles it all with total confidence. This bike is very stable at speed, and rides faster than it feels when going downhill. I've found that dialing the fork to the 125mm maximum travel setting, and keeping the rear at 4.5 inches slackens the head angle enough to really smooth out the handling on steep descents.
For the majority of the riding that I do on the trails in the foothills around Salt Lake, and on the high alpine singletrack in the Wasatch Mountains, I've found that 4.5 inches of travel at both ends is a great all around setting. In this travel mode, the Switchblade has very neutral handling characteristics, allowing me to remain centered in the saddle for most trail situations. This minimizes the need to make fore and aft weight shifts for climbing or descending. I'm looking forward to my first trip down to Moab with this bike so I can give the long travel mode more of a workout. As a final note, the ability of this bike to corner around tight switchbacks is outstanding.
As for negatives, I can't think of many. The IRC Mythos XC tires are a poor match for this bike's capabilities. Traction while climbing and cornering is sub-par. As soon as they wear out, I'll replace them with a pair of Panaracer Fire XC Pros, a far superior tire for the loose and rocky conditions that I ride. The Hayes disc brakes have been a little finicky also. Precise caliper alignment is critical to preventing rotor drag. On my first ride I experienced the annoying problem typical of most Horst-link bikes- the dreaded rear derailleur slap. This was easily fixed by attaching a rear derailleur bumper (made by Specialized) using a zip tie.
Overall, this bike has met or exceeded all of my expectations. Titus's superior frame design and quality, combined with the outstanding performance of the Fox TALAS suspension, make the Switchblade a ride second to none for the hardcore trail rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan E.
a Cross Country Rider
from Lyons, CO Date Reviewed: May 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Little Bear Loop - Flagstaff, AZ
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4500.00
Purchased At:
The Cycologist - Fort Collins, CO
Strengths:
Frame quality is outstanding. The black anodized finish is superb, and the linkage is rock-solid. This is without a doubt a bomb-proof frame. Words can't do it justice, you have to see one for yourself. The TALAS rear shock performs just as advertised, extremely plush, adjustability on the fly is a piece of cake, no gimmicks, it really works.
Weaknesses:
Absolutely none.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler w/5th Element (two-day demo ride); GT Avalanche for the past 10 years.
Bike Setup:
Small black ano frame, Talas shock & fork, Hayes Mag Plus, F219 w/XT hubs, Thomson stem/post, Azonic 2" riser, Terry fly-ti seat, King headset, Tioga 2.1" rear 2.3" front
Bottom Line:
I'll do my best to make this as neutral as possible, but...
First and foremost, the bottom line is check out Shawn at The Cycologist (www.thecycologist.com) before you buy this bike. Shawn is everything you could ask for when it comes to finding the perfect "bike shop" to build your dream bike. This guy knows bikes, loves bikes, rides bikes, and best of all he loves to build bikes for his customers. No b.s. with Shawn, simple and honest, and he builds an exceptional bike! He also builds incredible wheels, true and bomb-proof. To top it off, after spending 4 hours with him one-on-one while we built mine up from scratch, we went for a 2 hour test ride on some great singletrack in the foothills of Fort Collins. Now that is customer service! Check out The Cycologist, you will never look at bike shops the same way again. Doesn't matter where you live, he can ship anywhere. I spent a lot of time looking for a place like The Cycologist, he is truly different than you average run-of-the-mill "we'll sell you anything as long as you buy it" bike shop.
Now the actual bike. I will start by saying I have only logged about 50 miles since purchasing this baby last week. But those 50 miles were spent in Fort Collins (Horsetooth), Moab, and Lyons (Hall Ranch). Great way to break her in. I will give another review on durability when I have about 6 months of riding on it.
But the initial performance was amazing! This bike is so incredibly plush I have to compare the ride to the 5th Element feel I had on board the Heckler. But this is no Heckler, it's a Titus, and that says it all. Very, very stiff in the rear, honestly it is stiffer than my hardtail. No joke, I climb better on this bike. Dropping the travel to 3" in the front and 3.5" in the rear makes all the difference in the world. And best of all it is easy to do. Ignore talk about it being tricky or a pain in the ass to adjust, after a few miles in the saddle I was adjusting the front and rear on the fly, using the lock-out, you name it. Easy, easy, easy. Not only is it easy, but damn it works. Downhills are a whole new experience. No more teeter-tottering down the nasty stuff getting beat to hell, I was surfing down Porcupine Rim in Moab. Again, this is no joke, the Switchblade performs BETTER than advertised. I was simply blown away. The Fox TALAS fork was great, very stiff, no problems with any of the adjuster knobs, everything worked perfectly.
Bottom line on the initial love-in: the Switchblade is everything I expected and more. If you like to climb the nasty stuff, rip through singletrack, and descend stuff you never tried before, all in one bike, than you have to check this bike out. I'm sure there are others that perform nearly as well and have similar build qualities, but do yourself a huge favor and seriously consider this bike first. Especially if you buy it from The Cycologist, it will make you entire experience that much better. Call Shawn, the Cycologist himself, and he will take care of you and your new ride.
Five flamin' chiles all the way, I'd give 10 if it was an option.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Lawrence
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, Oregon, USA Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything that is not paved!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Beefy construction, solid design, great weld quality.
Weaknesses:
None That I can establish
Similar Products Used:
I've tried a whole bunch of the FS bikes in this range.
Bike Setup:
XT drive train and disks, Z1 freeride fork, singletrack rims, Race Face short stem wide bars, 2.3 WTB Mutano raptors. Cove Ring God bash ring.
Bottom Line:
I test rode a 2002 Switchblade in Moab last year and fell in love with the bike...the setup was a little odd for me....long stem, air fork and a 'very' long seat tube which needed chopping down so I could get some clearance over the saddle for the downhill stuff....but the ride was amazing...I was pedaling over everything.
Bought a new 2003 frame this year and built it up a few weeks ago....took it out for the first 'real' ride today...I'm pumped....the bike is everything it is advertised to be, I have a lockout on the front shock and using the travel restriction on the Talas made for a very easy climb, although without this feature it would still have been amazing.
Long steep climbs, technical switchbacks....it climbed like my hardtail.
Turning the corner and letting the suspension out to it's full length...what can I say, the bike was a joy. It's usually hard to get dialled in on a first ride, but I got there real soon.
I'm not shy when it comes to speed..and there was no need to be on this bike....all that travel sucked up anything I threw at it and more.
This is going to be a great summer! Can't wait to ride more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Smith
a
from Burbank CA. Date Reviewed: March 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The Verdugo's
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1895.00
Purchased At:
Titus
Strengths:
Titus quality and cutomer service. Bike design, and ride characteristic's
Weaknesses:
Bottom Bracket a bit low
Similar Products Used:
Intense Uzzi SL, several Santa Cruz Hecklers, Trek Liquid 30
Bike Setup:
TALAS rear shock, TI bolt kit, Fox Forx RLC 125, Easton bars, Chris King, Race Face stem Thompson Post, Serfas seat, Truvativ Stylo team cranks & Ti B/B, XTR F-Der. Sram XO shifters & XO rear Der. Hayes Mag 30 w/ti bolts, Mavic SL disc wheels. Panaracer Fire XC tires
Bottom Line:
After buying my wife a Titus Racer-X for xmas, due to the Womens specific design, their Excellent customer service, quality of build, and my wifes constant raves about how great her bike was I decided to purchase a Switchback for myself.
WHOW. I've raced expert XC & DH and owned a LOT of bikes, this is the best of both worlds. By far the best all around trail bike I have owned or ridden, Period! The bike weighs 27.4 lbs, climbs like a XC racer, always hooked up. When you get to the top select the travel you want w/the TALAS rear shock and hammer the DH. The bike is neutral in balence, light feeling, responsive, and does exactly what you want it to do. I ride on fast fire roads, and single track and it's equally adept at both.
When I ordered mine frame I was told it would take about 6-8 weeks. Allen called 7 weeks later and said the frame was to be shipped that day. Two days later Fed Ex arrived with a box containing my new frame. Titus was honest about the time frame, and I had no problems waitng. This is not a large manufacturer producing hundreds of frames a day. Its a small custom frame maker who hand build all of their frames and it shows in the details. If you are looking for one bike to do everything well, and have the means this is the bike to have. Buy one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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