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Submitted by
the molester
a Weekend Warrior
from Blackburn ,England.
Date Reviewed: October 30, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | gillm.75@hotmail.com | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | pauls cycles uk | | Strengths: | speed,good for upgrade, | | Weaknesses: | comes up very big for size,also top cross bar is very very high, to high always banging balls.rear shock is not smooth very jerky might get better in time. | | Similar Products Used: | kona | | Bike Setup: | factory set up | | Bottom Line: | it needs a fox rear shock & lower top tube then i think for the money you cant beat it.no good for girls if you know what i mean. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | priced right, frame quality, 2003 model has the ZR Aluminum frame that the newer models dont | | Weaknesses: | cheap components, heavy wheelset, a little creaky in spots | | Similar Products Used: | various hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Trek Fuel 80, race disk lite wheels, Avid Juicy 5, Thomson seatpost and stem | | Bottom Line: | decent weekend warrior setup for the price and a good frame to upgrade around. i am 6'4" and 220lbs and managed to get comfortable on a LG with a 410mm seatpost and longer stem. so far it has taken alot of pounding without a problem. if you start getting at all serious count on upgrading parts. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Juan Carlos
a Weekend Warrior
from Quito, Ecuador
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Line Charlotte | | Strengths: | Great bike, I never let me down, always work great. | | Weaknesses: | Could be the front derailleur, the rest is just simple great. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4900, Trek Liquid 10, Trek Fuel EX9 | | Bike Setup: | Almost everything LX (Shifters, V Brakes, Brake Levers, Hubs), XT rear derailleur, 2006 Fox Float R (Propedal) rear shock, Avid Flak Jackets cables, Kool Stop brake pads, Enduro fork seals. | | Bottom Line: | The best bike I ever had, work great, resisted everything I did with it, climb great, goes down hill great, but after 3 years of hard use and abuse, finally the frame cracked on a weld, right over the rear suspension main pivot and now, I hope that Trek will honor the warranty so I could still have the same opinion about this brand “Simply Great”.
I am sad but at the same time I realized that the last 3 years had been the best.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
wes tannner
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, Ut
Date Reviewed: January 13, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Thieves Forrest, Deer Valley | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Strengths: | Quality Frame and geometry responsive Pilot SL Forks. | | Weaknesses: | The Bearings and Dust Seal on the Bontrager Wheels only Last 600 miles before severe wear. The Sram Crank set is difficult to set a proper tension preload after lubrication. | | Similar Products Used: | Haro, Specialized | | Bike Setup: | Basically stock with superior lubricants and better tires | | Bottom Line: | I have done some serious downhill on my Fuel 80, for a XC Full Suspension bike it can take beating if it is maintained frequently. I have over four thousand miles on the bike and still appears new, however the bike never was left outside or submerged in dirty water, which is the two largest determining factors of a bikes life. My body size is larger at 6'4" 230 pounds, the Treck and similar geometries is most fit for comfort and uphill climbs. I had just purchased a 2005 Fuel 80 after test cruzen other brands with different rear suspension. You can buy a more expensive lighter bike with even more nifty components, but face it, if you train you become stronger. Nothing, nothing at all makes up for Skill and determination, not even a million dollar bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Perry
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR, USA
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Surveyor's Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Pedal Power, Middletown, CT | | Strengths: | Fast, light, good climber. | | Weaknesses: | Frame Strength, original fork, difficulty in replacing main pivot bushing, frame can get VERY squeaky. | | Bike Setup: | I put a lot of work and upgrades into the bike over the years. It is currently spec's with:
'06 Fox F80RLT fork
Cane Creek Cloud 9 rear shock
XTR rear d
LX front d
LX shifters
xt crankset,
M959 pedals
lx brake levers
avid bb7 disc brakes
chris king headset
home and handbuilt wheels:
chris king iso hubs (pewter), dt swiss 4.1d rims, dt competition spokes
speed v team saddle
odi lock on grips
panaracer fire xc pro tires
original bonty seatpost, stem, and bar | | Bottom Line: | I really love this bike. It handles exactly how I like a bike to handle. The way I've got it spec'd now is nearly perfect for me. The original suspension kinda sucked. The Pilot fork was especially unpredictable. The Cloud 9 and Fox F80RLT solved that. The original wheels were pretty bomb-proof for me, but my current ones are just awesome. The original Deore drivetrain had a good run of several years, but did eventually wear out.
The handling on this bike is responsive and fast. With the suspension dialed in it soaks up bumbs pretty well for a 3" travel bike. It climbs fantastically, even without any platform technology. But this bike is not made for really hard riding. I have had two major frame problems witht his bike since I bought it.
The first problem arose about 2 years after owning the bike (bought it in 9/02). The swingarm developed a hairline crack on the large cylindrical crossmember between the two sides of the swingarm. Right behind the main pivot. I didn't notice this until doing a rebuild on the bike, although there had been a creak that I'd been hearing preceeding that. Pedal Power in CT had the swingarm replaced in 1 day!
The frame got progressively noisier over the years too. I isolated the noise to the frame. After much research, and finding info through both MTBR and THe Bike Gallery, in Portland I squirted a bunch of lube (Pedro's Ice Wax) specifically, down the seat-tube of the bike. This stopped the insanely annoying squeak every time you hit a bump. Apparently the interface between the machined pivot part of the front triangle and the welded seat tube (one is slid inside other and welded) rubs whenever force is put against the pivot and squeaks. This solved the problem!
Had the bike a while longer. I tried rebuilding the Pilot fork to 100mm to see what would happen. The fork sucked worse (much more twist). And the geometry of the bike was destroyed. The front end was way too high and the bike became a terrible climber overnight. Don't put 100mm forks on this bike. Anyway, then I just replaced everthing and upgraded since all the components were in the process of dying on me (they'd just been worn out, not enexpected). The bike is sick now, lighter, faster, the suspension is fantastic. I highly recommend the CC Cloud 9 on this frame, and the FOX fork. Disc brakes made the thing much more controllable and fast on decents, but I should have forked up the cast for some slightly lighter hyd. disc brakes. The BB7's are awesome, just a little hefty.
I had a good summer of riding with all my upgrades, but then disaster strikes again. A crack was developing between the top tube and the seat tube. Right at the weld. I took it to the Bike Gallery in Portland since they're the local Trek dealer. Anyway, all I've got to say is that was about 6 weeks ago. I still don't have a new frame. I should have it tomorrow, but that is way too long to wait for a warranty replacement. On top of that I called Trek once about the warranty and was not impressed by my conversation with them.
I'd just like to say that I am not an abusive rider. I don't jump the bike. At most I'll get a foot of air off small drops, roots, or rocks, but I don't go looking for air. I'm a fast agressive xc rider, but I don't ride stuff that is not in the realm of XC. I only weigh 160 lbs. Other parts of my bike (like the wheels, even the originals) never got tacoed or even very far out of true, but the frame cracked twice!
2003 was the only year the bike was made of ZR9000 aluminum, and I don't know if there was a problem with that alloy and htis bike or what. The current aluminum ones are made of crappy Alpha aluminum which (by Trek's literature) is weaker and heavier than ZR9000, but who knows if that's right.
I'm still sticking with the Fuel because I like it's ride so much. But all of these frame problems are disconcerting to me. I'd rather have a carbon one now because they're probably stronger than the aluminum ones (except when crashing on rocks). This bike is fast though. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nicholas Schmidt
a Weekend Warrior
from Erie, CO
Date Reviewed: March 9, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | slickrock | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Cutting Edge Sports | | Strengths: | Frame, value, ease of ride, comfort | | Weaknesses: | Rattling, rear shock, tires | | Similar Products Used: | Other Treks and specialized mt bikes, all hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock for now - will replace key parts after some wear and tear occurs | | Bottom Line: | Although i bought this during the fall and have not had enough time to fully grade it, I bought this as I fell in love with a pal's fuel 70. It is a super comfortable ride which older folks may appreciate more so than techno-geeks. The rattling, which occurs on jumps and over babyheads, is a little annoying so I may need to tweak the design a bit. A good value at a pro deal, I hope to get many enjoyable days in on this one. My first fs, and I like it so far. I will try to update with another review after one year. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Spankmeister
a Weekend Warrior
from Montgomery
Date Reviewed: November 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Oak Mtn | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Frame rocks! Front shock is does the job fairly well, rear fox float is reliable with good variance. | | Weaknesses: | Rear is kind of heavy, but feels balanced, so I'm not sure if that counts. The the componants are ok, I want a new drivetrain, hubs, and tires. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4900, Torker, Rampar! | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I believe the bike is worth every penny. There is a slight loss of peddling efficiency with the rear suspension; however, I feel improved traction and handling on roots and other rough areas. The bike has taken 2'-3' jumps/drops consistently, 3 or four good falls, and even survived my dumb@rse driving it into my garage on the roofrack. It just feels right. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
alberto zamacona
a Cross Country Rider
from oaxaca, mexico
Date Reviewed: August 8, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | la carnivora | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | this is my first full suspesion bike, it climbs like a goat, and makes me a better rider on the downhill. No bob if you stay in the saddle. | | Weaknesses: | The pilot front suspension is noisy, and needs to be checked frequently, brakes and shifters were cheep and neded to be canged for something better (xt). The crank needs to be changed, cheep. | | Similar Products Used: | my last bikes have been hardtaills, specializeded and Haro. | | Bike Setup: | xtr v-brakes, xt shifters, the rest is standard, as come on the bike | | Bottom Line: | Best bike I ever had. makes me a much better rider, and is easy on my back (arthritis)
Last two local races have come in third in my category and I think it's partly the bike.
Great frame (zr9000), cheap components that must be changed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jared
a Racer
from Burlington, Vermont
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Fun? | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Earl's Cyclery and Fitness www.earlsbikes.com | | Strengths: | -The Strength and Greatness of this Frame. This has gone through numerous 3-5 ft drops, big spills, weekly cross country races, and more, and it has still held up. It's also ZR9000 alloy, come on, what a cool name.
-Looks sexy
-It works. | | Weaknesses: | -Grips (I had to replace them after like 3 months)
-Tires (The Jones also went very soon after they were giving me no Traction)
-Seat (The Seat got destroyed after one fall and plastic started sticking out... ripping my pants.)
-Fork (The Fork has gone out on me numerous times, I have had it rebuilt twice and it still is not performing well, I am done with Rock Shox from now on) **Upgrading to Fox F80 RLT**
Rear Shock- Needs Lockout desparately, It also gets alot of pedal induced bobbing when standing up.
| | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Oury Grips, WTB Speed Saddle, Michelin Comp S Light Tires, Soon Fox F80 RLT and a Fox Float R or RL with lockout. | | Bottom Line: | This is my second review, and after over 6 months of the bike it has mostly held up. The Frame is what trek actually made, and it is an amazing frame, the other parts are less than desired but still they hold up well.
I have been racing at least once a week and not have a major hiccup even once in a race, sure my brakes are pretty weak, and going little bumps fast in a race I sometimes shift to gear one from two, or two from three.
Eh, but it is hella fast, and I am greatful, I have been winning some races for my class, Teenager (Sport) so, c'est la vie for Fuel. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stephen Poirier
a Cross Country Rider
from Leominster, Massachusetts USA
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Strengths: | XC Full Suspension, feels lighter than really is, climbs very well, comfortable, awesome value | | Weaknesses: | no lockout or Propedal on shock, Pilot SL fork a bit iffy, drivetrain needs upgrading, needs disk brakes | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Blast, Schwinn Frontier, Trek 930 | | Bike Setup: | stock except LX front derailluer | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for first time full suspension users, but i wouldn't reccommend for racing. If you plan to race, just buy the frame or a Trek Fuel 95 or 100 frame and go from there. The rear shock needs upgrading to atleast a Float R. Otherwise an excellent bike. :') | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a Weekend Warrior
from Reno, NV
Date Reviewed: June 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Tahoe Flume Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Strengths: | Quality parts, full suspension | | Weaknesses: | People say the rear shock is just OK but I think it does what its suppose to do. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Outpost | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Geax Sonoma tires and a taller stem | | Bottom Line: | This bike has been a big improvement over my last one. Its big (21.5") which is more than my 20" Outpost so I can stretch out more. Its great on hills, no bobbibg and has great gears and brakes. It even has room for 3 water bottles. Bottom line is that you have to spend some real $$ to get a good ride. I wouldn't spend less than this! I love it. Its right for a serious weekend warrier. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl
a Racer
from Northeast Ohio
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | any singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Authority (best price in town) | | Strengths: | Price, Frame, rear triangle has disc mounts unlike the carbon model from 2003. | | Weaknesses: | Cheap stuff attached to the good frame. | | Similar Products Used: | Older Fuel 80 heisted from my honey. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for saddle. | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up to an earlier posting wherein I stole... er, borrowed... my wife's bike.
I've had my own Fuel 80 for a year, and have enjoyed it. I believe that the value for the $ is excellent. For casual xc riding, the only changes that were really required was to to replace the poochy brick stock seat with a San Marco Aspide.
However, before I race it I'll be performing significant upgrades to ensure reliability on race day, starting with the fork, which is a bit flexy after my years on white brothers units.... but based on the $700 price (always buy right when the new models are hitting the stores and get last years at clearance prices), I can do a whole lot of upgrades before I hit the spousal imposed budget ceiling! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug Paddock
a Weekend Warrior
from Poky, ID, USA
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | MTBR Classifieds | | Strengths: | Fun bike. Climbs and handles well for the most part. | | Weaknesses: | The Fox Float rear shock seems like it is just there. It doesn't do much, it isn't very active. I bottom out the Pilot SL fork. Deore components are loud and require frequent tuning. | | Bike Setup: | ZR9000 Alloy frame, Pilot SL fork, Fox Float shock, Shimano Deore components. | | Bottom Line: | I just got back into biking after I quit for a while. This is the first bike I have owned since I re-started biking, it is also the first full suspension I have ever owned, so I have little to compare it to. This bike was a sweet deal for $650, used from MTBR.com. It is good for recreational/ beginner riders, but the bottom line is I will be upgrading to a better bike next season. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: May 1, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance LBS Buyout Liquidation Sale | | Strengths: | Great Value. Great Climbing Full Suspension. | | Weaknesses: | Tires are useless for off road. Frame size options are not optimal. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4900, Cannondale Jeykle Diamondback (Old school) | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | As a regular road-rider, (80 miles/week) I got back into mountain biking after several years off. (Last time I rode a mountain bike if you wanted shocks you rode a motorbike.)This bike was only $100 over my set budget so I decided to give FS a try. At 5' 10 and 170lbs the 17.5" frame would have given me better clearance but it just didn't feel right. The 19.5" frame feels great but I don't have a lot of crotch clearance. The Jones AC tires slid out from under me a couple of times. (I'm not that aggressive a rider) and kept spinning out on climbs so I switched to a Panaracer Smoke/Dart combo and the improvement was huge. Bounce is only noticable if I stand up in the middle front ring which I never do so it is nil. The stock brakes lock up the tires going down no problem and braking improved the most when I added the new tires. After a month of learning to ride off-road again this bike was all I needed to keep up with my much more experienced riding buddies.
This is a great frame with solid performing, basic components, which I will upgrade as I wear them out. I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a great performing bike that you can find for well under $1000. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Weekend Warrior
from Reston, VA
Date Reviewed: April 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Any Dirt Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Pedal-n-Spoke | | Strengths: | Great Suspension, So far very little matinence required, Rides much smoother then any other then most other trek models, is very easy to clean, and was a GREAT DEAL | | Weaknesses: | Not to happy with the Fox Float Rear suspension for it is difficult to adjust and there is no lockout when needed, Also not very good braking power | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 850 and Trek Liquid 10 | | Bike Setup: | Stock and just recently upgraded brakes to Shimano XT Disc(a big plus) | | Bottom Line: | This is a great MTB for beginners and intermediate bikers though I would not recommend it for people who like to race at every waking moment. Also would recommend that the breaks and rear suspendion be upgraded other then that it can't get much better. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, ID, USA
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | IMT | | Strengths: | Effecient pedaling full suspension, great value for the price. | | Weaknesses: | Some minor chainsuck, Pilot fork not the greatest performer. Lower end brakes and drivetrain, but that is typical for the pricerange. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 850, Trek 8000 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, excepting Rolf Satellite wheels and Icon cranks with Bongtrager RE-1 pedals I kept from my 8000. | | Bottom Line: | So far, I love this bike. After 7 years on hardtails, full suspension has added a whole new dimension to my riding. I am pleased with the suspensions performance. I don't do big drops or jumps, but that is not what this bike is made for anyway. I think the value is great for the price, so 5 for 5 there. I would give the overall rating a 4, but I am going to give it a 5 to offset the lamers who gave it 0 and 1 after only a demo. This is a better bike than that, and deserves a higher average rating. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Juan Carlos
a Weekend Warrior
from Quito, Ecuador
Date Reviewed: February 9, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Line | | Strengths: | Great looking, light enough, not too many bikes like this in my country | | Weaknesses: | I haven’t found any yet, but could be the front derailleur, and the tire tubes | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 49000, Trek Liquid 10 | | Bike Setup: | At this moment stock, I already bought LX-shifters and LX rear derailleur to upgrade it, cateye enduro 2 | | Bottom Line: | When I started in mountain biking, I did it with a Trek 4900, and I love that Bike, I changed just to see how would work a Full Suspension and I think I didn’t make a Mistake.
Well, the bike works great, the fork is very sensitive to its regulations, I run it with 25psi (my weight is 185 lbs.) because lower then that is too soft for my taste, I also run the rear shock with 130 Psi and then works great, very smooth and takes the punishment very well.
The frame is really tough, resists the impacts very well, and doesn’t flex at all, with the seat you have to get used to it, because at the beginning is cain of hard, but after a few rides you start to like it.
The tires work fine, are not the best but I have got the chance to use them in sand, mud, roots and hard surfaces and never had a problem, by the way the tubes suck.
I do hard cross country, fast dowhills and jump over big drops (Up to 8 feet) and never had a problem, the frame resist fine as also the suspension, the only thing I don’t like is not having a decent distributor of Trek in my country, so I have to buy anything in the United States.
Finally, I think this is a great bike, definitely is not the best bike there is, but if you compare what you pay for and what you get, this is really one of the best bikes on the market.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from New Hampshire
Date Reviewed: November 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Strengths: | The frame is super light for a hardtail, it's a nice smooth ride. The suspension is great and is a fast nice entry-level full suspension bike. | | Weaknesses: | The stock wheels are junk, also the frame sizing is very akward. Most people I know are around 5'10 or 6 foot. I myself am 6 feet tall and 140 pounds. I find the the 17.5 frame is a litte too small, but the 19.5 is also a little too big.
The breaks on this are decent, but can stop fine.
One problem I am having is the shocks, they are great shocks but are a little rattly. I have yet to bottom out yet but I am only 140 pounds.
Do not sett the air in your fork to the reccomended PSI for your weighyt, try out some different amounts and find the amount that fits for you.
The Seat is also a little uncomfortable after long rides. I usually am not on my seat but it still will make my ass kill after 30 minutes or so on the seat. | | Similar Products Used: | Garyfisher Big Sur, Giant NRS-2, Specialized Rockhopper FSR, Specialized Stumpjumper (Hardtail), Kona F/S Bike. | | Bike Setup: | Stock ATM, I am switching out the Stock Tires for some Panaracer Fire XC's. The seat is also going to be switched for something a little for comfortable. | | Bottom Line: | The Trek Fuel 80 is a great entry level F/S bike. It gives you everythign you want for the price of $900. (Note : Do not get the 2004 model of the Fuel 80 because of the Aluminum Frame instead of the ZR9000 Frame) It performs well at pretty much everything even though it is a cross country bike.
The great frame also leaves tons of room for improvement without fear of putting a hole in your pocket. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad
a Cross Country Rider
from California
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | I Like To Ride | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$999.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | This bike is sweet! This climbs like a beast and downhills far better than others I have rode. In fact I would say that this is the best all round bike I have rode. | | Weaknesses: | The stock tires dont hookup with anything loose. The stock brakes are ok for rim brakes I'm a big fan of disk though. and nothing rock like UST, it's like adding an inch of travel to your bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS, Gary Fisher Sugar, Specialized Epic, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, Santa Cruz Super Light, Cannondale Jekyll | | Bike Setup: | Hayes HFX-9 Disc, Panaracer Fire Pro XC Tubeless, Mavic X3.1 UST rims | | Bottom Line: | I tested all of the above listed bikes and I decided on the Fuel because of price and overall feel. I wanted a FS bike that could pedal well and take the bumps and the Fuel has a great middle ground of both. The only bob I notice is if I get out of the saddle in the middle ring. If you want great suspension-go with the Super Light. If you want to climb and take the edge off bumps-go with the Epic.
I couldn't be happier with this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Pottstown,Pa USA
Date Reviewed: October 17, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Horseshoe Trail,French Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Manayunk Bikeline | | Strengths: | This is a very durable and cooperative bike.I have ridden it just about everyday on rocky,root-filled,often wet trails. | | Weaknesses: | Changed the original tires-Jones Ac to MythosXC. The Mythos seems to work better than the Jones on wet ,slippery rocks and roots. | | Similar Products Used: | Owned a Sugar4 | | Bike Setup: | Completely stock | | Bottom Line: | A great bike. It has had hard use but I have maintained it properly-cleaned and lubricated regularly. I am 6'2" and 190 lbs. and the medium frame is just right. The seat is comfortable, the brakes stop the bike"right now",shifting is trouble free,clipless pedals are great if cleaned and adjusted properly. 7 lbs. of air in fork,110 lbs. in shock.
Had a slight shifting problem. Manayunk Bikeline took care of it while I waited-15 minutes. A small piece of wood in derailleur. GREAT BIKE. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Cordova, TN
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikes Plus | | Strengths: | Frame. ZR9000 is used in 2003 models. 2004 use aluminum. | | Weaknesses: | Stock saddle. Change before your first ride | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Sugar, Trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Serfas saddle and Egg Beater peddals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike does everything I need for it to do. The trails I ride are fast with plenty of technical obsticles. This bike takes the hits well once you adjust the float and the front suspension. It climbs well and descends even better. As long as you use this bike for what it is meant to be ridden (cross country) then you will be pleased. But if you intend to do planty of downhill and plan to do stunts and 10' drops, consider one with more travel. Like a previous post said earlier, if you can get hold of a 2003, get it. The 2004 models went back to the aluminum frames. The ZR9000 frames now begin with the Fuel 90 on up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Isaac Monkie
a Cross Country Rider
from NC Piedmont Triad
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Owls Roost | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Toy and Hobby | | Strengths: | Reliable, Fun To ride, Solid Deore Drivetrain, Great Price, Frame Rocks!
I like the grips and the Bontrager Crowbar alot! | | Weaknesses: | I don't care for the front shock that much it kinda rattles and loses air alot and doesn't feel very plush I dunno I'm ready for a Duke Race
The rear shock offers no adjustments which is kinda lame IMO
The Crankset I don't like, The wheels I don't like. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500, Trek 4300 | | Bike Setup: | 2003 Trek Fuel 80, Lizard Skin, Time ATAC pedals
Fox Float RL Rear Shock
| | Bottom Line: | I think this bike rocks personally.
I'm 160 and 5'10 and I ride a 17.5 and it rides and fits great I'v done everything from tight XC to small dropoffs and it handles it all great.
Many people need a bike with tons of racing XTR stuff if so it's simple don't buy this bike, it's a cheap F/S bike for somone who wants a taste of a Expensive bike with slight cuts in componet selection.
You're getting the same Fuel techonology as the Fuel 100 just in a differnt frame and component package but you're still getting the same overall techonology and idea trek had when they designed the fuel.
I havn't put on the FLoat RL Rear shock but I'm sure it'll be much better then the stock Float in the back.
Another thing to consider is if you can pickup a new 03 for a good price like me then it's a great deal on this frame the ZR9000 is a terrific frame the 04 Fuels don't offer the ZR9000
Bottom Line.
Great bike for certan people who want a smooth riding Fuel bike without all the fancy things for a great price!
I took away one chilli for the float rear shock, No adjustments and I don't like the Wheelset much. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Hensley
a Racer
from Oak Lawn, Il
Date Reviewed: October 8, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | rICHARDS CYCLERY | | Strengths: | For a beginner m/b racer, I love it. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 930 was my last bike | | Bottom Line: | The guys at Richards cyclery in Palos Heights, Il. are the best. I am very new to racing. whenever I need a quick fix, a tune-up advice or direction, they fit me in. I have even gotten help over the phone when out on the trails.(trust me it's a good story).The bike performs great for my style of riding. I reccomend them to everyone I know...ride safe...Paul
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Murchison
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Blankets creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1039.00 | | Purchased At: | Freeflite | | Strengths: | Frame, cost, warranty, susspension | | Weaknesses: | Brakes, wheels, tires, and seat | | Similar Products Used: | 1990 Cannondale | | Bike Setup: | Changed out drive train to XT, switch saddle to a teluride, change to Panaracer Fire XC's | | Bottom Line: | I had been out of any biking for about 12 years and do to my expanding waist size and just being out of shape I decided to get back into riding. Well since the day I bought the bike I have been riding on and off road 6 days a week. I started riding weighing about 239lbs and am now at 210lbs. The bike has held up really well for the past three months with not a single problem. I take it up to blankets creek 4 times a week and really hammer away on it through the single track, drop off’s, rock gardens, and log obstacles. Then the other 2 days I go to silver comet trail (Paved over rail line) and pull my 2 year old for about 35 miles.
The bike is a XL and weighs in at 29.50lbs not the lightest but since it is a XL and has some heavy wheel’s it not to bad. The first thing I upgraded was the drive train as I just didn’t like the way the SRAM cassette shifted under load and the nameless Shimano cranks seem to flex a bit so I went to an all Deore XT drive train and rear derailer.
The brakes while the do get me stopped they could do a lot better as it takes a death grip to get them to even come close to locking up going downhill, disc brakes will be my next upgrade.
The wheels are strong but the hubs really are crap, I also have broken 2 spokes both while ridding on the Silver comet trail puling my 2 year old in a trailer. Because the wheels are not disc compatible these will get upgraded when I go to disc.
The saddle caused me a lot of numbness after about 12 miles so I switch to a telluride and have been numb free since.
The suspension seems to be a nice fit for me so far, when setting up the rear suspension I have found the setting the pressure to 90% of my weight gives me the best ride and handling. I set the front fork to 25lbs and the reboud to the middle and have not noticed any problems.
Overall I love the bike and I am happy I bought it instead of a hardtail. Although it is not a big hit type of bike for me it has just enough suspension to take the bite of out the trial and to cover up any bad line choice I make. It climbs really well and takes on the tight sections with little effort on my part.
If I were to buy again I would probably go with the Fuel 90 with the disc brake option as the brakes on this bike just are not powerfull enough to really stop a guy with my current weight on downhills.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Downhiller
from Mammoth Lakes, Ca, USA
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Bullet | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$590.00 | | Purchased At: | Footloose | | Strengths: | Very tough bike. I've done some extreme mountain trails on it, and it hasn't had a problem yet. Shifts extremely smooth with stock derailers and shifters. It's a relatively light bike for what you get, approx. 27 lbs. with full suspension. | | Weaknesses: | Little suspension; weak front fork and rear shock; since the rear shock has so little suspension, you can't get much bigger on the front end. | | Similar Products Used: | KHS Raptor; Specialized FSR; Trek Liquid 10, 20, and 30 | | Bike Setup: | Stock at first. But then I did a little custom modification. I put a 4.5" shock in the rear to allow for a better combination with a larger front fork, with disc breaks. | | Bottom Line: | Trek makes awsome bikes. This bike can take a thrashing, and if you don't have a really big budget, it works well. But if you can afford one of the Liquids, you should definately go for it. I'm now riding the Liquid, and it is tons better than the Fuel, but the Fuel works perfectly fine, and it'll take anything you need for it. It's a great buy for what you pay. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Catts
a Weekend Warrior
from Spring Branch, Tx
Date Reviewed: August 20, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | McAllister Park,Warda, Rockyhill | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike World (the best) | | Strengths: | CLimbs like a hardtail..rear suspension.. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500, Jamis Dakar Sport | | Bike Setup: | 2003 Fuel 80, w/full 2002 XTR..Chris King Headset, Manitou Mars Elite fork..Conti explorer/escape tire..Bontrager mustang xtr wheelset..total weight 27 lbs | | Bottom Line: | This bike ROCKS..I'm 250 pounds and this bike handles great it's fast and climbs great..I can hammer on singletrack..or hop down a tecnical descent..or climb and grind all in one bike..no complaints..the ZR9000 alloy on the 2003 is a great upgrade from the 2002 model..The rear suspension is great just make sure if your big to pump it up to at least 250lbs so as not to bounce..The guys at Bikeworld on Blanco Rd are the best..top notch customer service..untouchable by all the other wannabee bike shops who can come out from behind the counter and work with you....ask for Fernando for the best bike mechanic around..he rocks.. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl
a Racer
from Madison, Oh
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Atchinson Property | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | now defunct LBS | | Strengths: | Relatively compliant but still efficient ride | | Weaknesses: | Well... it's cheap. So it has Cheap parts. Typically, cheap parts don't work as well as expensive parts. Go figure.... | | Similar Products Used: | Short demo on a sugar, once on a fuel that probably didn't have the sag set correctly. | | Bike Setup: | Stock: mostly deore with really poochy judy fork. Hey, it's my wife's scooter and she just doesn't care about the parts. | | Bottom Line: | So here I am... race weenie with a Dean Ti hardtail, all XTR, White Brothers fork... and have to send the fork out for service in the middle of the season. Wanting to ride in the interim, I borrow my wife's Fuel 80, three years old but in fine condition. I set the sag up correctly and head out to my favorite trail and ride for an hour. Despite the rather cramped cockpit (I ride a medium, the bike is a small) I find that I am not only more comfortable than normal but going way faster than with the hardtail. Nifty! The bike appears to give just enough suspension compliance to allow better traction and a higher comfort level, but with enough efficiency to keep me feeling pretty spanky on climbs.
I read the other reviews and it appears that this is one of those 'love it or hate' it bikes... either one chili or 5... and perhaps it depends on your background. If you come from the F/S arena, this bike probably feels harsh. For me, coming from a hard tail, it was a great experience. I rode the Dean this weekend and don't know if I will ride it again... I'm looking for a Fuel now, will either buy an 80 and swap out my XTR stuff or look for a deal on a 100 with the disc set up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lavoyger Gies
a Weekend Warrior
from San Antonio,TX, Bexar
Date Reviewed: August 5, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | OP Schnabel | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike World | | Strengths: | front brakes | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 600 | | Bottom Line: | I like this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a
from Nashville
Date Reviewed: August 1, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Could not find any!!! | | Weaknesses: | Seems to be the whole bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4900, Specialized Hard Rock, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Demoed this bike while on vacation in Oregon. Rode at the ski-bowl bike park about 6 miles.
Looks nice but rides like junk. Seat hurts after just a few minutes. Tires won't hook up on anything. Stupid grips. Worst brakes I have used on a name brand MTB. Rock Shox rattles...
My 1999 Stumpjumper is a much, much better bike in any situation. Even my daughter who likes Trek bikes thought it was junk. Maybe the air shock was running high pressure but I could not detect ANY rear suspension. Stopped to see if it was locked out, no such luck, no lockout. There are many bikes out there that are 10 times better for close to the same $$$ or less.
Keep looking elsewhere. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno
Date Reviewed: July 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Flume | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1199.00 | | Purchased At: | Sierra Cycle | | Strengths: | Price, Trek's lifetime guarantee on the frame.
| | Weaknesses: | Can not get disk brakes out of the box. The Rear Derailleur (Shimano Deore)
| | Similar Products Used: | NRS 3 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | After 3 months of daily abuse I’m thrilled with my purchase (like I would admit otherwise). This is not a $3000.00 bike, so I knew that I would be upgrading components. My first upgrade will be the wheels and brakes to disk. At some point I will be replacing the rear derailleur as well.
If your looking to get out and ride and upgrade as you go, then I would recommend the Fuel 80.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a Cross Country Rider
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | 1100.00 | | Strengths: | Looks like it would be good. | | Weaknesses: | components, tires, brakes, seat....about everything | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS 3 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I test rode this bike and I wasn't pleased at all. But when I looked at the bike I thought I would be. Trek is usually known for making good, strong, and long lasting bikes, but this is not one of them. I liked the Giant NRS 3 a lot better, because it rode better, and it wasn't as corny as the Fuel 80. I would not reccoment this bike, unless you want to store it in your garage for years to come, just to look cool. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
William Fancher
a Cross Country Rider
from East Stroudsburg, PA
Date Reviewed: July 12, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Camelback | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1250.00 | | Purchased At: | Genesis | | Strengths: | Bike handles well and is inexpensive. | | Weaknesses: | Have had to replace most major components every year since buying. Would not mind that as every replacement has turned into an upgrade and bike is ridden in Pennsylvania rock gardens. Others say you can't upgrade to disc brakes. You can if you find the right adapters. I have the avid disc. Major fault of bike is chain suck. I had chain suck with the original chain rings and upgraded to Race face crankset with no change. I frequently ride with other Trek fuel owners and all models 80, 90, & 100 have the same chain suck problem to a greater or lesser degree. Bike will shift well on the flat but chain sucks and then binds between chain stay and middle chain ring when trying to drop down on hills. Dealer thinks bike is fine as it shifts okay in stand or in parking lot. I would not reccomend this bike to anyone who needs to climb especially in a roller coaster envrironment. | | Bike Setup: | Race Face chain rings with mostly XT components. | | Bottom Line: | I will not but this bike again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
weekend warrior
a Cross Country Rider
from san jose
Date Reviewed: July 5, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | all | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Strengths: | frame | | Weaknesses: | components can be upgraded | | Bike Setup: | all xt drivetrain, mavic, avid, duke, fox, kore | | Bottom Line: | great frame and with upgrades have turned it to a very capable xc bike. have not had any problems in the 2 yrs that i have owned it. would recomend to anybody. i am 210lbs and ride the bike hard all over the santa cruz mountains and has held up. maybe if i jump off a clif it will break, but so far the frame has been flawless. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad
a Cross Country Rider
from Westby, WI , USA
Date Reviewed: June 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Human Powered Park, LaCrosse, WI | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Sport haven | | Strengths: | Climbs and decends very good. Looks great, rides better. | | Weaknesses: | The Bontrager ACX-B tires that come on these are garbage. I gave mine away as soon as possible. Wasn't a big fan of the stock pedals. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Hardtail, Giant NRS 3, Specialized Stumpjumper. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for bar ends and replaced the tires with Panaracer Fire XC Pro's ( Awesome tires ). | | Bottom Line: | Very capable XC bike. Climbs like a goat and rips up tight single track. Very well built bike. I took mine down a dual slalom course this weekend and it took the punishment just fine. It would be nice if it was lighter, but then it would have cost alot more. Excellent bike for the money. If your just getting into XC racing or just like to go out and rip up trails, buy this bike. I've taken mine down some serious downhills too, with 4 foot drops and it just a kept going. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob S
a Cross Country Rider
from Durham, NC
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Rocky Road/New LIght | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Not the frame | | Weaknesses: | Frame, suspension design | | Similar Products Used: | 4-bars, various hardtails | | Bike Setup: | XT wheels/drivetrain, Marz 80mm coil, Avid SD-7s | | Bottom Line: | After one year of riding the Fuel I ended up with a cracked headtube and a broken rear triangle. This bike was not jumped or abused in anyway. This might be a great race bike, but if you just ride for fun either purchase a really good hardtail for the same price or spend some more $$$ on a more durable/proven f/s design. And after riding a 4-bar suspension design, the Fuel feels like a hardtail in comparison. If you want/need/love this bike, check the weld at the headtube/downtube before every ride, and periodically check the rear triangle for movement. It would be a shame if poor craftsmanship/design cause a trip to the ER for someone.
I cannot recommend this bike to anyone at all. Too many of these frames have broken for this to be a safe design for anything but a smooth, manicured, bike path or NORBA race course. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from FL, USA
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Alafia/TOE | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Works (They SUCK! buy elsewhere) | | Strengths: | Hard to find any. Guess the shocks are good. | | Weaknesses: | Components, frame, seat, brakes, crowbar, bottom bracket, | | Similar Products Used: | Giant VT2. Spent $1500 and is 50x the bike the Fuel is. Spend a little more and go Giant. | | Bike Setup: | Most FL riding is flat sgl track with roots. Set up a little soft. All stock components. | | Bottom Line: | Frame broke in 2 places (Trek replaced but took 2 MONTHS). Chain suck every time riding the bike (even with new chain etc). Broke the seat post support 2 times. Had to get a bolt from Home Depot because no Trek dealer could get the stock bolt (Great support!). Bought the Giant VT2 while I was waiting for Trek to replace the frame. After riding the VT2 for 1 month I got back on the Fuel and could not believe how wonderful the Giant was (or how bad the Fuel is).
I will never buy Trek again. Junk bike, no support! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
cale bergmann
a Cross Country Rider
from morden, MB, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Trans-Canada | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Olympic Sports | | Strengths: | It was very light and had excellent traction on fast trails. I also liked the adjustable front Rock shox Pilot SL that could be changed from 80-100mm. | | Weaknesses: | I didn't like the fact that you couldn't upgrade to disc brakes in the rear because of a lack of mounting holes. the paint also chipped of very eaily. | | Similar Products Used: | I have only had a 1999 Trek 830, but I have tested a Rocky Mountain Trailhead. | | Bike Setup: | Shimano Deore crank, front and rear derailer, and shifters. Shimano brakes and Bontrager components. Rock shox Pilot SL fork and Fox Float rear shock. Bontrager Jones ACX tires and Bontrager Corvair wheels. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is an awesome step up into XC and also makes an alright urban bike with the amount of adjustability in the Suspension. Just dont expect to be able to upgrade too much. It makes a perfect bike for the person who can't afford too much but wants a performance bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Giles
a Cross Country Rider
from Reading, UK
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Bucks Cycles, High Wycombe | | Strengths: | Good Starting Price and features with room to upgrade | | Weaknesses: | Could be a little lighter (but I'm used to a lightweight Orange steel frame!) | | Similar Products Used: | Tested the Fisher Sugar, and Trek Liquid bikes, I ride an Orange C16. | | Bike Setup: | Standard but with added Hope disc brakes, XT hubs and Mavic 317 rims. | | Bottom Line: | I wanted a bike that would allow me to do a bit of everything. I tested the Liquid's as I thought these would work but found they have too much travel for XC riding (which I mainly do). The Sugar's were good but not quite right. I got a great deal on this bike (the shop were very friendly and even stayed open late to get it ready the day before I left) and took it to the lake district for some serious testing.
It was excellent, it did it all and was comfortable (which is important on long rides). The only noticeable bob was from the rock shox, not the back end, and it climbs really well.
I have to say that this is a great bike for the money (it even looks good with the discs and black rims!) and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a machine that can cope with all sorts. With the shortish (compared to others) travel its more suited for XC but its a strong old (new) bike that'll take some punishment.
I don't have a comment on the braking as I upgraded to the Hope disc brakes.
Buy it and enjoy! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin Laurin
a Weekend Warrior
from Ste. Anne
Date Reviewed: April 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Spruce Woods | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Oliympia Cycle and Ski | | Strengths: | A fun bike that is fast and effcient a blast to ride in alot of situations. At the same time you could set this bike up to race it has all the basic componets. Fork is very tunable and it is nice and light. | | Weaknesses: | Well it sets out to be the type of bike it is trying to be a cross country style bike but the weakness is that it is a little bit on the wimpy side drops are outta the question. The brakes are no good. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS 3, Giant XTC se2 | | Bike Setup: | Rock shock Pilot sl, Fox float, Bontragner, and shimano | | Bottom Line: | I feel when buying a bike the more options you have with the bike the better. In the case of the Fuel 80 it is a good blend of many types of riding. I have raced only with my buddies and beat them and went solo trail riding I have pulled of a 3 foot drop of my deck and the Fuel seems to continue to be a quiet solid performer. Nothing really jumps out at you about this bike it just does what ever you ask it to. The only thing worth putting money into changing are the brakes they dont have much grab to them at all. So that is one area I am looking at improving on. Other then that fuel 80 is one of those feel good bikes that makes you want to ride more and more it very solid thanks to the ZR 9000 frame the rocker link eliminates most bob and Trek recommened that I set up the rear shock to 85% of riders body weight but I ride it a little softer. I actaully love this bike and am looking forward to a full summer of riding on it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mick
a Cross Country Rider
from Ireland
Date Reviewed: January 7, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | 1900 euro | | Strengths: | new zr 9000 frame, very smooth & adjustable suspension,fast on the trail,feel's strong ,looks well,excelent climber | | Weaknesses: | the bike seemes just a touch heavy and the saddle is hard on the cheeks ! | | Similar Products Used: | n/a | | Bike Setup: | standard set up - rock shox pilot sl ,deore ,zr 9000 frame ,fox float rear sus. | | Bottom Line: | very good bike for X country and fast on the trails , anybody looking for a full susser this bike would be a good starting point. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vic
a Cross Country Rider
from Oak Park, CA USA
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Cheseboro, Agoura Hills, CA | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Helen's Cycles, Westwood, CA | | Strengths: | The 2003 Fuel 80 has many significan improvements over the 2002 including the frame material from the Fuel 98, Rock Shox Pilot SL fork, and subsitution of Shimano Deore for Bontrager components. It is a great value for the price. Do not let your LBS sell you a '02 as the '03 is much better.
The rear suspension does not not pogo under any conditions I've encountered, but the fork will pogo somewhat when doing standing climbs. This bike makes for a plush XC ride and feels fast and secure.
Shifting is generally very positive, espcially upshifting the rear cluster.
The bike looks great, many others ask me about it.
At this price point I can upgrade components and splurge on accessories as I chose to and not feel gouged. | | Weaknesses: | As mentioned fork pogoing, that I will try to tune out. Some chain slap occurs when riding over very rough ground.
The bike is a little heavy compared to a Santa Cruz Superlight, but weights about as much as most other better full suspension bikes. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Sugar, Trek Y Bikes | | Bike Setup: | Stone stock. Fork and shock preloads per the manual.
One day I may remove the All Travel Spacer in the Pilot SL fork to increase the travel from 80 mm to 100 mm, but am currently happy with it as is. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a keeper. I like it.
This bike will make MTB riders seeking a full suspension XC bike happy. Those wanting to freeride should seek the new Trek Liquid. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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