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Submitted by
nondairybubonic
a Weekend Warrior
from st joe
Date Reviewed: October 29, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | andrews | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | cycle and fitness | | Strengths: | all around built tough | | Weaknesses: | pedals,tires rims | | Bike Setup: | all stock except kenda nevegals and aftermarket platform pedals | | Bottom Line: | bike is a tank its stood up to some hardcore riding no real problems when i upgrade im keeping this also no reason to get rid of a good bike | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
soot
a Weekend Warrior
from Marquette, MI, USA
Date Reviewed: September 23, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Pioneer Loop Marquette Mtn | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Strengths: | Frame strength is great. This bike fell off the bake of my car at 65mph. The only damage was a bent seat post. | | Weaknesses: | It depends on your riding preference. I bought this bike for occasional cross country rides, some single tracks, and paved paths. This was a great bike for an all around mountain bike, but now I'm riding more extreme single tracks and reached the pinnacle of this bikes use. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a great beginner bike and I've spent the last two summers riding this bike hard and hadn't had any problems except regular wear.
If you want a good all around bike without breaking the bank. This is the bike. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Billy
a Racer
from Brockton, MA USA
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | DW Fields' Park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Express | | Strengths: | Gets me from point A to point B. | | Weaknesses: | Weight, bottom bracket, brakes, shifters, stiffness. | | Similar Products Used: | Huffy | | Bike Setup: | 2003 specs, whatever they are. No disc brakes. | | Bottom Line: | Weight was and still is my main issue. I mostly use mountain bikes for city commuting. The reason I prefer mountain bikes is because road bikes cause a lot of neck strain paying attention to traffic. City travel does require you make a few adjustments such as replace the fatties with some hybrid tires. Even after doing that this bike was just too heavy. It's probably 35 lbs or more. Speed is your friend in traffic. This bike is best suited for downhill mountain biking. It reminds me of an old Huffy I used to have. Bad on the knees.
Previous to this purchase I owned a GT Pantera(it was stolen). Wow night and day. Both were about the same price. They were not built the same though. The Pantera was light and electric in traffic. I never hesitated to push it. The Trek is sluggish and makes wide turns.
Because of the weight and my riding styling, combined with inferior parts the bike is starting to really fall apart. I expect the bottom bracket to grind up soon.
It's almost 5 years old now. That's about $0.34 a day. I guess that's not bad... | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zachariah
a Cross Country Rider
from Palm Desert, CA
Date Reviewed: December 30, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Hurkey Creek Park (24hrs/Adrenalin Course) | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$220.00 | | Purchased At: | Private Party | | Strengths: | Strong frame; great climbing geometry; disc brakes; Deore LX components | | Weaknesses: | Heavy hardtail at 33.4lbs; J1 fork tops-out easily + heavy; weak Tektro brake levers; BB and crankset made noises | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher HooKooEKoo; Giant Anthem | | Bike Setup: | 100% stock | | Bottom Line: | Great for learning to ride mtn bikes. Climbs great, rolls smoothly and can take a trail beating, too. As your skills improve......you will eventually want something lighter, and more responsive. Forget about upgrading the components-the(2006) Kinesis-made frame of the 4900 is so heavy....you are better off buying a new bike. Just outgrow it, and then pass it on to another newcomer. This bike will at LEAST ignite your passion for this sport. A Wal-Mart, or Target bike will NEVER come close to doing that!! | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Deal
a Cross Country Rider
from Key West, Florida, United States
Date Reviewed: April 17, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop, Key West | | Strengths: | I took delivery of my Trek 4900 in April 2006 ( a rare 24" frame ) While the bike is not feather light, ( though how many mountain rigs really are? ) It's as light as it needs to be, and provides a solid feel. The "Alfa Aluminum" frame is top rate, and well worth building onto.
The 6" Shimano front and rear disc brakes, while often noisy in wet or cold weather, are admirably strong and responsive after being worn in.
Among the bike's best points is the Shimano Deore LX rear deraileur - one of the reasons I chose the 4900. It's pretty high grade for the cost of the bike, and performs smoothly and drama free most of the time.
The Rock Shocks J1 (Judy) front fork doesn't offer a great deal of stiffness, even in it's strongest setting. But it does go about it's business very quietly, and has been zero maintenance. | | Weaknesses: | The 4900's biggest fault would have to be it's Shimano Acera front deraileur. Falls out of tune easily and becomes rather clunky. Best used as little as possible. Being an urban rider primarely, I set the chain on the big ring and keep it there. ( this is where the good Deore LX out back comes in handy.
The stock pedals began to creak early on which I had replaced two times under warranty. With Bontrager pedals the first time - which had the same problem, and then to a set of MTB's which are good enough, but still creak and crackle under heavy acceleration from time to time. Bottom line, just switch out the stock pedals for higher end ones. | | Similar Products Used: | 2004 Trek 4300 - disc brakes and a better front fork are the main advantages of the 4900 over the 43. | | Bike Setup: | Stock everything, except for MTB pedals and MTB all season tire on the rear to cut rolling resistance on pavement. Still riding on original Bontrager Jones in front.
Bontrager Select post and saddle jacked up high so I can stretch out my legs ( I'm 6'6" ) and Tektro brake levers tuned for very little travel. | | Bottom Line: | The Trek 4900 is a good sturdy rig, fit for daily use. I would not quite consider the bike "entry level" because it's performance and content are considerably better than that. I've ridden it pretty hard with no major failure, so it will surely stand up to anything a casual trail rider could throw at it. The bike will get up and go too if you've got the legs for it.
Overall, the Trek 4900 is a rugged and handsome looking bike with it's classy paint schemes, and no nonsense frame design. Certainly worth every bit of $650. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Tustin, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 9, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | San Juan, OC/California | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Santiago Cycling | | Strengths: | Durability | | Weaknesses: | None | | Bike Setup: | Shimano Clipless Pedals, V-Brakes | | Bottom Line: | I'm guessing that at this point few people will be reading reviews on an almost 4 year old bike, but here goes.... I have put over 2000 miles on this bike, traversing some of the best singletrack in Orange County, CA, and it is still going strong. My original intent was to purchase an entry level bike to see if I enjoyed mountain biking. Little did I realize that it was to become an addiction.
I have replaced the Tires, brake pads, chain, and cables, all of which I consider normal wear items. The seat broke last week. All other components are original and still work perfectly. Even the rims are pretty straight and haven't needed to be trued.
The paint has very few scratches in it and looks brand new when I actually clean it.
Now that I have experience with biking, I definitely recommend replacing the stock tires if you are going to ride dirt trails. They have no grip and are suited for pavement. Clipless pedals were my second upgrade, which allowed me to pedal up most hills that were challenging. The front suspension is virtually non-existant. It moves, but is horrible when compared to the shocks on higher end bikes.
At this point I'm in the market for a new bike am planning on going with a full suspension Trek EX8. I just get so beat up on the longer rides with a hardtail that it will be nice to have a bit more cushioning. Now I can honestly say that my 4900 is holding me back from being a better rider, but it definitely served it's purpose.
I would recommend this bike to everyone in the market for an entry-level bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mathieu
a Cross Country Rider
from Laarne, Belguim
Date Reviewed: October 24, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | downhill, bmx jumps, mud | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | sport bikes wetteren | | Strengths: | it's a very strong and light bike, with this bike i've got my wheelie record: 3km..
A standard totally deore LX bike, but now a xtr | | Weaknesses: | none | | Bottom Line: | - | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Northfield
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Sweet Air (in MD) | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bicycle Connection (in MD) | | Strengths: | -Light frame (for an entry level bike) and is strong
-3" trail (for a 21.5" frame, pretty good)
-Good power transfer to rear wheel | | Weaknesses: | -COMPONENTS. Front der is pretty sad (Shimano Alivio), rear der is decent but could be better.
-Promax v-brakes are cheap
-Seat post: too much play and it's wicked heavy
-24 speeds: I've often wished I had 29. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 820, random other bikes | | Bike Setup: | Trek 4900, Marzocchi MX Pro fork, Avid Single Digit7 v-brakes, Shimano M520 clipless pedals, new der and crank coming soon (SRAM). | | Bottom Line: | I got mine out of season, so I got a great discount on it- MSRP is around $600.
For the money, it's a great bike. The frame is worth building off of.
I recommend at least upgrading the pedals and brakes, especially if you ride XC a lot.
If you're looking for a good bike to make tracks every now-and-then, this is bike is good stock. However, if you ride often, especially XC, you're going to have to change some of the components out.
Keep in mind, this bike is aluminum- it's very rigid, it's not designed to take big hits (as in downhill riding for instance).
Value- 5: it's a good start
Overall- 4: components could be way better | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Modesto CA USA
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | The snail trail below your moms patch | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Robbys Cycelery in Stockton CA | | Strengths: | It only cost me 350 (new old stock) and was the last year you could get a 17.5 frame (my perfect size)
Its been a decent bike.. Frame is well put together.. Great for freeride.. | | Weaknesses: | Fork is squishy at its hardest setting.. components set is pretty cheazy.. | | Similar Products Used: | 1996 Trek 820 w/rock shox mag 21 fork | | Bike Setup: | Chris King classic hubs, Mavic ceramic wheels, cool stop triple compound ceramic pads, salsa flip offs and the rest is bone stock.. | | Bottom Line: | Its a good entry level bike.. Nothing for the extreme or hardcore freeride tho.. If you just like to cruize or hit the trails.. great ride..
but
After riding my Klein Pulse comp that I modded the crap out of from 1997 to 2003 (stolen).. Ive hunted and found another Klein Pulse comp a few weeks ago to build up on and the 4900's goin on blocks.. :) Im using what I can from it and ebaying off the frame.. Its a red/silver 17.5 with less than 10 hours on it TOPS! Very clean and hardly any scratches on it.. If interested.. make offer PentastarTurbo@aol.com
thanks
*Chris | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Deplaris
a Weekend Warrior
from Oak Lawn, IL USA
Date Reviewed: April 5, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Maple Lake | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$20.00 | | Purchased At: | Orland Park Cyclery | | Strengths: | Takes some major abuse. I ride it for everything minus downhill. Shifts nicely, the acx tires grip superbly. still have them on, though another week and its time to replace them. I use the bike as an everyday commuter at school and ride all weekend long on the trails. | | Weaknesses: | Stiff... For city riding, it sucks. The turning and handling lack... | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Iguna, Specialized Rockhopper, Soon a trek bruiser with plenty of beautiful parts | | Bike Setup: | In the city i ride with all of the original parts, minus grips, now have lock on grips. on order are avid mechical brakes with a set of mavic wheels on shimano xt hubs and a race face crank. A new set of shirters, and i'll be happy for now. | | Bottom Line: | As an entry level bike, this is a great buy for the money. THe Pilot c shock could be something with more travel... and the turning could be a bit better, but over all it is a great bike for the money. For anyone looking to start out, this is your choice. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee Hastings
a Weekend Warrior
from Lexington, VA, USA
Date Reviewed: February 3, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$705.00 | | Purchased At: | Lexington Bike Shop | | Strengths: | handling, front suspention travel, brake modulation, unstoppability (if that is a word), front derailler, ACX tires (which i replaced), bike is great for technical rides | | Weaknesses: | dependabilty, rear derailler | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4300 (awsome bike) | | Bike Setup: | discs, front and rear lights, water bottle, pump, speedo, and Big Kahunah tires | | Bottom Line: | In june, i upgrader my 4300 to the 2004 4900. I really do love this bike. It handles wonderifully and is awsome for almost all conditions. The ACX tires are super grippy, but wear fast. I replaced them w/ Big Kahunah tires which are a front and rear specific tire. They work great in snow and mud. I love this bike, however, I have had a TON of problems with it. It is in the shop once a week for varios problems; chain broke twice, squeeking from front hub, breaks are constantly out of adjustment, bearings in handlebars are shot, problems w/ rear derailler, suspention fork is loose (still haven't figured that out), cables have broken several times, and a few other times too. I would not recomend this bike to someone who rides only ocationally because of the depedability, but for someone who rides all the time (like me), and needs a high performance bike (and doesn't mind if it is in the shop alot) i would recomend it. Also, my front derailler is awsome, i love the feel and have never had a problem, but it is the rear one that is always giving me problems. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Merlin Ash
a Weekend Warrior
from York, Yorkshire, UK
Date Reviewed: September 30, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Dalby Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$970.00 | | Purchased At: | York Cycleworks | | Strengths: | Fast, Stiff, light, strong great XC trail bike | | Weaknesses: | Rubbish for dirt Jumping (Surprisingly), Long stem + Long top tube makes it a little difficult to control sometimes. Original tyres wear down quick. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4000, 4300, 4500, Bruiser. Scott YZ0. Orange Patriot. Elan Slyer. Giant Acid | | Bike Setup: | Deore/LX front + Rear Mechs, Marzocchi MX comps(Beautiful),WTB Motoraptors 2.2 Kevlar | | Bottom Line: | This is great alround trail bike for blasting round hardcore single track, but for streat riding, hardcore free riding and Dirt Jumping its just not strong or maneuverable enough. Which I suppose is obvoius now but I didn't realise when I got it 9 months ago. For any fun loving hardcore XC rider this is the beast for you but if you want to try your hands at dirt jumping and free riding you should look els where, at a Bruiser for instance. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik
a Weekend Warrior
from Wilmington, De
Date Reviewed: September 18, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikeline | | Strengths: | Strong rear derailure, low cost, nice starter MTB. | | Weaknesses: | front derailure. constantly needs to be adjusted. The Judy C is a nice fork but the preload adjuster broke after a few uses (I would suggest you find where its best for you and never move it again...) It should be made of a stronger plastic or metal. | | Similar Products Used: | NA | | Bike Setup: | stock with clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | Great entry level bike for the money, I bought it to see if I liked being offroad. I'm hooked! Almost 2 years of care free operation, aside from the normal tune ups. Its been through all of the "learning" falls with minimal damage (truing rims and adjusting derailures). If you like the frame it is set up to be upgraded with disk brakes. If you already know you are going to spend lots of time on the bike, invest in a bike with better components because you will outride this one. I am looking to upgrade shifters, go to full suspension, and disk brakes on the next bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert
a Downhiller
from Iceland
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | úlvarsfell | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Metro | | Strengths: | This bike is very good for a beginner i have ride this bike almoast every day now and it have com out good i jump very muthc and that just trash the bike | | Weaknesses: | pedals, pilot c fork, and i have broken the gears | | Similar Products Used: | some crap | | Bike Setup: | i am allways changing the brake pads | | Bottom Line: | this bike is good but if you ride often and do downhill this bike is not for you but good bike and dont jump on this bike
sorry for my spelling i am from iceland and i am 14 years old | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Orion
a Cross Country Rider
from East Hampton, CT
Date Reviewed: May 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Airline Trail bushwacks | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Pedal Power, Middletown Ct | | Strengths: | Durable, forgiving, | | Weaknesses: | front derailler (sp?) | | Similar Products Used: | none really | | Bike Setup: | stock, with computer, Shimano clipless pedals, and XT middle chainring. | | Bottom Line: | A good bike to get started, and reasonably priced. I did not look around much, I guess I didn't really know much then. But I am happy, sure I would buy a nicer bike now. But I think to get started it is good to get a feel for how you ride before buying a higher end bike.
I am a pretty big person, 210 pounds, and the bike takes the abuse. It is a little rattly, and a little heavy, but after 1 year of riding, the bike can do more than I can. No complaints, and I would highly recommend this to a new rider. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
charlie hall
a Racer
from kennilworth Il USA.
Date Reviewed: March 21, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | wheels, tires, fork | | Weaknesses: | every thing that I did not mention above. | | Bottom Line: | an ok bike but trek went cheap on things like hubs, cranks, BRAKES. I had to replace my brakes after just 1,000 miles of riding. it cost m over 100 dolars. overal the frame is very stiff and light. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremiah Peropat
a Cross Country Rider
from Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, USA
Date Reviewed: February 22, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | all of em | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$330.00 | | Purchased At: | Country Ski and Sport | | Strengths: | The fork is perfect for me, I'm only 235 lbs. Great Geometry. I can use it for rugged trails and street riding with complete comfort. The saddle is one of the best I've ever been on. | | Weaknesses: | Pedals tend to slip when wet. The brakes seem to wear easily with rugged use | | Similar Products Used: | Walmart crap | | Bike Setup: | All stock for now | | Bottom Line: | For the price it is worth every cent. It will take those hard mountain rides and will be just fine for those who are just going to take it easy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas Klischies
a Cross Country Rider
from Concepcion Chile
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | forest trails in chile, lot of them everywhere | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | sparta | | Strengths: | this is the 2003 disc brake model al bike is very good (for the price) | | Weaknesses: | TIRES!!!!!!! just crap change the front one for maxxi calibos
weight, 1 or 2 kg- would be better
deore disc brakes are to heavy | | Similar Products Used: | gt with xtr group | | Bike Setup: | stock for now,wqant to change to xtr ne brake and shifters set and xtr disk breaks | | Bottom Line: | ok, here is the bottom line, pilot c!!! when I recive th ebike I have think this is not what I pay for. so, like ever, I make a lot of reserch about the fork, and then i found the problem, you have to change the oil from 10w to 5w.
when I have change te oil, manual say add 150cc from the up and 30cc from under. but my surprice, I only extract 20 cc from the fork, yes 20 cc, so that was a big reason of the malfunktion.
thats it, dwnload the manual from sram.com page and make the oil change, your world will be different and you will feel waht a pilot c is :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tteater
a Cross Country Rider
from okc i'm afraid
Date Reviewed: January 14, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | tom steed, in the ancient Wichita Mtns | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Al's Bicycles SW. don't go there, go to NW | | Strengths: | -Judy C fork
-Shimano Deore rear derailleur
-Bontrager Corvair rims
-Bontrager Crowbar handlebars
climbing and technical ability.
| | Weaknesses: | -Shimano Alivio front derailleur
-chain slaps the top of the chainstay
i have had a lot of problems with the drivetrain slipping under a load. the shop i bought it from GAVE UP and told me to take it to another location because they couldn't get it to slip in their parking lot. they actually told me i was "playing games" with them. like i enjoy hauling that bike 10 miles during my lunch break to see their frowning faces. get bent! | | Bike Setup: | 2002 model, purchased in Feb 2002 | | Bottom Line: | this bike can hang with the best. i use it for the road, streets, and the most technical trails you can find. it can do it all. i crush this bike and i race it too. do not go below the 4900 if you think you will be riding a lot.
my bike must be an exception regarding the drivetrain. i have seen many entries dissing the front derailleur, but not the slippage which i suffered for the entire year of 2003, resulting in stitches and bashed knees. this new location (NW store) has been helping me get past that.
the stock saddle will collapse. the small chainring, as it wears, will start sucking your chain in muddy conditions. the chain, cables, brake pads will wear out. but hell, that's normal, right ? why complain.
there is nothing wrong with those stock tires, i put over 500 crushing miles on them (6 mths) and had no complaints.
it's a tad heavy, 30 lbs, but very sturdy. if this new drivetrain holds up, then i'll keep this bike for another two years. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Angel
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami
Date Reviewed: November 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$420.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle World (Miami) | | Strengths: | Nice Strong Frame, Not the lightest but suitable for me, Handles well. | | Weaknesses: | Derailleurs constantly need adjusting (freakin' pain in the ass). | | Bike Setup: | Deore rear, Shimano crank, Bontrager wheels, post and saddle. | | Bottom Line: | Been using this bike on trails and has taken a beating.
Other than the time being taken to adjust the derailleurs this bike is a very good buy.
Recommended for begginers that would like a good quality bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ann
a Weekend Warrior
from Nashville, TN USA
Date Reviewed: October 30, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lock 4 Gallatin TN | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$520.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Peddlar Nashville TN | | Strengths: | Price, quality frame and fork, Deore rear | | Weaknesses: | Average tires and rim brakes, no clipless pedals. Other bikes in this preice range give you 9 speeds, this one is 8 speed..... | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Yukon, Giant Iguana, Trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | standard | | Bottom Line: | I ride 1-2 time per week on Middle TN trails. Mostly hardpack (dry), hills, creek crossings, rocky tire shredding climbs, and the occasional launching mogul hill.....this is a good entry level bike. I started out on a 4500, sold it and figured what the hey, I'll replace it with a 4900. Why didn't I start here first?? Don't buy any lower than this level of bike (say, $600.00 range) for beginners. The weight savings in this bike is great over the 4500 in the front fork, enabeling much better climbing and obstacle clearing technique. Trek's 15.5 frame fit me (5'4") like a glove. Get yourself some clipless pedals, and maybe a little faster tires (such as Hutchinson Mosquito) and hit the trails! This bike will tide me over for a while while I save up for that full suspension bike...... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay LO
a Weekend Warrior
from Newark,NJ
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Any where | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Ski Barn | | Strengths: | This is an excellent bike for the price. It handles well all types of terrain. It is a climbs well, can handle crazy downhills,creeks, rocky trails, roots, single track, just about anything you are able to do. I ride this bicycle hard and it always holds up. The rims and frame are excellent! | | Weaknesses: | Fork is a bit heavy. The stock tires are weak. The lack of clipless peadals. Some parts have a short life. This is normal, since like I said before I ride this bike hard. But upgrading is no problem, since the bike didn't cost me much to begin with. | | Similar Products Used: | Cheap stuff! | | Bike Setup: | Avid SD 7 Brakes and levers, XT rear derailer, IRC Trailbear tires, Rock shox Duke XC fork, clipless pedals, Salsa quick release seat clamp and WTB Rocket V saddle. | | Bottom Line: | This is an excellent bike that is worth upgrading, since the frame is very good. Upgrade as parts wear out. With the right upgrades this bike can rival bikes in the $1000 price range, with a custom bike feel! This bike is so good that I can't find a reason to upgrade to a Dual suspension bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy Green
a Cross Country Rider
from Epping Essex
Date Reviewed: September 5, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Epping Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Highway clcles | | Strengths: | Good Frame LX 8 OK | | Weaknesses: | Pilot c Forks and front derailer | | Similar Products Used: | Various | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Hope M4 Discs front and back | | Bottom Line: | Generally I am very pleased overall, Forks could be better also front derailer, trying hard to wear the stock tyres out to justify the change to my wife. For the type of riding I do I have been very pleased and I would recommend the 4900. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
S.J.
a Weekend Warrior
from Hoover, AL, USA
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Red Line, Oak Mtn | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$485.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Nice strong frame, brakes, rear deraillier. | | Weaknesses: | Front deraillier is not good, I'm going to change ASAP.
I'm taking off those reflectors as well. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500, Gary Fisher Tassajara | | Bike Setup: | Factory right now, other than bike pack and pump. | | Bottom Line: | I'm really glad with my choice for first MTB. I was swaying very close to another brand, but I decided to stick with Trek for their reputation, and LBS service. For weekend riders, like me, the Trek 4900 is a great choice, and good price. I know I can upgrade later (and I probably will) and still have a great frame. Take your time in searching the internet and bike shops for the right bike for you, and do what your gut says, because in the end, it's YOUR bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dick Sucker
a Racer
from Mercer Island, Wa, US
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Butt Sex | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Safeway | | Strengths: | Nothing | | Weaknesses: | Everything | | Similar Products Used: | Haro F3 | | Bike Setup: | It has wheels, it has a frame, it has a fork(with suspension), it has 1 piece handlebar, it has disc brakes, it has brake levers, it has brake wires, it has break pads, it has pedals, it has a 3 piece crank, 27 speeds, it has spokes, it has a tube, a seat that sux, it has anti snakebite rims, it has reflectors, a magnet on spokes, a computer, a shifter, and 2 cupholders, and a kickstand | | Bottom Line: | A lot of screws and nuts | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Beattie
a Weekend Warrior
from Batavia, OH, USA
Date Reviewed: August 23, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$520.00 | | Purchased At: | Montgomery Cyclery | | Strengths: | the rear derailuer. frame and ride. Brakes! | | Weaknesses: | The front derailuer, weight. | | Similar Products Used: | None really. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This is my first real MTB and I am impressed with how it rides, the RD shifts so sweet and sometimes you don't even notice that it changed, beautiful. The front derailuer though is another story, it took me three days to get it adjusted just right, I found a lot of resources on the internet though and it is flawless now. I had my first on trail wreck today, on a hill that I had no business being on, the brakes were working so good and then the balance just went away and over the bars I went and slid down the hill. I just imagined what the bike looked like and when I turned around, it was still in one piece! the front brakes needed to be re-centered and that was it, I am happy!! I'm still getting the hang of it, but this was definately the best choice I could have made for the money. Don't hesitate and don't go any lower than this! I would have given it better value rating, but I still do not understand why a bike has to cost almost 600 dollars, though I would have paid it i guess. This seems to be a great newbie bike, for me anyway. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Minneapolis, MN
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$620.00 | | Purchased At: | Penn Cycle | | Strengths: | I got the 4900 disc brake edition, mainly for the upgraded LX rear derailer and disc brakes are also nice. | | Weaknesses: | Front shock seems a little stiff for me, but I only weigh about 175 | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fischer Tassajara | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I think it is a great starter bike for the money. I looked around for about a month before buying, this bike seemed like it was the best bang for you buck, when comparing components, and overall setup. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim W
a Cross Country Rider
from Moscow PA USA
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Merli-Sarnowski definatly | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | B&B Cycles | | Strengths: | Very solid bike. Handles great in technical trails, awesome climber!!! | | Weaknesses: | Shimano Alivio Front derailer sucks. Change to Deore before you leave the shop. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized rockhopper comp. | | Bike Setup: | Rock shox pilot C up front, panaracer xc tires, dual water bottle cages. Disc brakes(excellent choice for mud). Shimano Deore front derailer. | | Bottom Line: | Buy the Trek 4900 and upgrade to clipless pedals. Get a set of disc brakes,ditch the jones xc tires and shimano alivio front derailer and you got an awesome mountain bike. I won't buy anything but a hardtail. This one is definatly an excellent choice for anyone, new or experienced. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Laurie Flood
a Weekend Warrior
from Pollock Pines, CA U.S.
Date Reviewed: August 16, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$525.00 | | Purchased At: | Placerville Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Rear shifters - Deore, brakes, value for price | | Weaknesses: | Front shifter - swap to Deore before you leave the shop! | | Similar Products Used: | Mid '80s Ritchey mountain bike + Demoed Jamis Exile, Giant Rainier, and Fisher Tassajara | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded to Deore in front + cyclometer, Lizardskin, and Powerstraps (in my opinion, much safer than clipless, but just as much power transfer) | | Bottom Line: | I bought it today. When I went on the test ride, I found the front shifter - Alvio - sloppy. I had them upgrade to Deore in front. I found the brakes to be very good, and I appreciate the granny gears available. It's all hills here where I live on the west slope of the Sierra, and I tend to ride gnarly chip seal roads with loose gravel that give way to dirt and back to chip seal over and over. It took a little getting used to that big top tube when I stood on the pedals going up hills. I rub against it a bit with my thighs. It was a bit heavier than the Jamis Exile, so maybe a racer would have chosen the Jamis or the Tassajara for the same price. They are all good bikes for the money! I liked the brakes on the 4900 better, and it was cheap to upgrade the front shifter - probably cheaper than upgrading the brakes on a Tassajara. I am totally pleased with my purchase. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wing Supra
a
from N.Y,N.Y.
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | laguna seca | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$520.00 | | Purchased At: | NorthShoreCyclery | | Strengths: | Its a sturdy bike but i dont think it could takke to many beatings. | | Weaknesses: | The jones ac tires are the worst tires ive ever used on a bike. So far i used 5 patches on my back tire, and 3 in the front. (From popped tires) | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | Same Stuff i had on since i bought it. | | Bottom Line: | I like how the gears changers work, the crank is kinda weak(sometimes skips) but the only thing i hate about the bike is the jones ac tires. If your the type of person who rides hard, this isnt the bike for u because i dont think it could take much of a beating. But if u ride soft it will last u for a long time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron S
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs.CO
Date Reviewed: August 7, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | everywhere | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle village | | Strengths: | disc brakes are awesome and the shifters are really nice. I also really like the tires | | Weaknesses: | none! | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Iguana disc | | Bike Setup: | disc brakes and rugged | | Bottom Line: | This bike is very nice for beginners and people that have been mountain biking for a while so if you are looking for a nice reasonably priced bike than the 2003 Trek 4900 is the answer.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Boatner
a Cross Country Rider
from Madison, MS
Date Reviewed: August 4, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$575.00 | | Purchased At: | Indian Cycle | | Strengths: | Smooth riding bike with strong frame, decent fork | | Weaknesses: | Middle chain ring bent twice (1st one replaced under warranty). Later I replaced with XT cranks. Rails on stock saddle collapsed. Rear free-hub bit the dust/replaced under warranty. Bent front skewer and front/rear axles. Seat post quick-release didn't hold well and was replaced n/c with a standard collar. | | Similar Products Used: | Early 90's Schwinn High Plains. Late 70's Murray BMX. | | Bike Setup: | 21.5" blue/silver frame. XT cranks/cassette (8spd)/front derailleur. SRAM chain. Thudbuster, WTB Laser V saddle, Panaracer Fire XC 2.1 tires (blue sidewall), Cateye Enduro-2 computer, Egg Beaters, Oury grips. | | Bottom Line: | My first mountain bike with any type of suspension. The Pilot C fork is adequate but has some flex and the spring is really stiff, even for me at 6'4" 250lbs. I ride pretty hard and feel confident on this bike. Great bike for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
D Cimpianu
a Cross Country Rider
from Romania
Date Reviewed: August 3, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$399.00 | | Purchased At: | Auto Moto Velo Sport | | Strengths: | A very well build bike,i like the aluminum frame,the Shimano Deore and the bunch of Montrager stuff on it.Mine it's a red one and that a bonus.
The bike rides and performs like a dream and it's made in the U.S.A. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | An older Norco and and older Rocky Mountain. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I would definetly recomend this Mountain bike to whomever wants a performance mountain bike but doesn't have to break the bank,and don't forget a good "U" lock,i just bought a New York Kryptonite one for mine because i wanna keep it mine. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russell Ruggiero
a Cross Country Rider
from West Windsor, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: August 3, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | R&D | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$520.00 | | Purchased At: | Jay's Cycle | | Strengths: | Frame | | Weaknesses: | Weight | | Similar Products Used: | 4300, 4500, and 4900 (2001) | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: |
Dear
Reader
Listed below are my current Trek Holdings:
STP 200 (XTR/XT/XT)
4900 (Alivio/LX/XT)
4900 (Stock)- 2003
4500 (Alivio/Alivio/Alivio)
4300 (LX/LX/Deore)
The 2003 Trek 4900 is a well built product that can meet the needs of most riders. It is a bit on the heavy-side at 30 pounds. New for 2003 is the Pilot C fork, which is far better than the old Judy TT. The owner of this product should purchase a new Shimano LX FD out of the gate to minimize any shifting problems becuase the stock Alivio FD is pure trash. In addition, and new set of clip-less pedals will be of great benefit in getting more power to the new Shimano crank. All in all, a solid offering by Trek.
Thank You
Russ
PS: At 8.3 pounds the stock combination (Frame/Fork) is still too heavy. Maybe next year can work their SLR tubing into the 4900 for the same price.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Max K
a Weekend Warrior
from Leavenworth,KS,USA
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | River Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$519.00 | | Purchased At: | Santa Fe Trails | | Strengths: | Strong Frame .. Great Trek Warrenty | | Weaknesses: | NEW CRANK SET | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 6500 , Trek 930 | | Bike Setup: | Stock 4900 | | Bottom Line: | Great bike Good Price.. wouldnt go with anyhting less... i give it ALOT of abuse and it seem to keep up
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Kingston, NY
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Belle Vista in Monte Bello State Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$520.00 | | Purchased At: | palo alto bicycles | | Strengths: | Light frame, stiff shock, great components, ATTRACTIVE PRICE | | Weaknesses: | only two color choices | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale f300 | | Bike Setup: | stock with a psychrometer | | Bottom Line: | This bike is well suited for most types of mountainbiking, and going on short road rides. I own one and love it. If you want a good mountain bike and are on a tight budget, the trek 4900 is most definately for you. Happy Trails!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lenny
a Weekend Warrior
from Farmington, MI
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$420.00 | | Purchased At: | American Cycle and Fitness | | Strengths: | Good Frame for the price. Great Value. I like the seat. | | Weaknesses: | It's old so the judy tt is pretty bad. Decales fall off. Components could be better. | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing really. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Mavic Crossroc UST wheels, Michelin UST tires, and new lizard skin grips. | | Bottom Line: | I just started using this on trails and is sweet. Upgrade a few components and stuff on ur bike and it will ride awesome. The frame is really good for the money. Overall its a sweet bike for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lukasz
a Racer
from Washington DC
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Griffin Cycle | | Strengths: | Great Frame, Shock, and components. Feels Great on trail, up or down hill. | | Weaknesses: | non so far. and i hope it stays that way. | | Similar Products Used: | Many other trek bikes. | | Bike Setup: | Standard, plan to uprade to Deore LX and new pedals | | Bottom Line: | Great Bike. Ride it every day for about 1.5 - 2 hours, rain or sun. Mostly on trails. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Worcester MA
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Their all good... except a few | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Alley | | Strengths: | Nice solid Frame, fork (the pilot c is awsome for my weight), decent components, everything works together perfectly (no noises), the metalic red is a good color and Its fast too | | Weaknesses: | none found, never had a problem with anything from trek | | Similar Products Used: | Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except the pedals, they made me change them when i returned the rockhopper for this bike because they were abused. oh yeah, i stuck a lizard skin on it too | | Bottom Line: | It's a good xc bike for the money, probably the best bang for the buck out there. Many may call it a beginner bike. but its only a beginner bike if a beginner is riding it. I haven't owned it long enough to get it on the trails but i sure it will hold its own, and then some concidering i've owned other 4000 series frames and never had a problem with them. I'm a big guy, 6'4" 215lbs i ride the 21.5" frame and i abuse the thing. I haven't been disapointed with any trek products yet and hopefully never will. This bike is not for the extremeists but more for the average xc rider like myself | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karlie
a
from Bend, Oregon
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$545.00 | | Purchased At: | Sunnyside Sports | | Strengths: | Great fork, perfect for all types of riding, both on and off road! Came in a WSD which I got - so nice for those hills! Comfortable stock seat! | | Weaknesses: | Only weakness is my quick release on the front tire is a little tight, but I just have to take a wrench to adjust that. Pedals are clipless adaptable, would have be nice if they at least came with some sort of cage/strap. | | Similar Products Used: | Looked at Giant Iguana, Yukon and Trek 4500 | | Bike Setup: | It's actually the Womens Standard Design (WSD)- Out of the box (Pilot C fork..etc.) plus a computer and a water bottle holder | | Bottom Line: | My first mountain bike- I wanted something that will keep me interested in the sport, but not so cheap that I will have to upgrade after the first ride. I may never change! I love this bike! And it has helped me fall in love with moutain biking! Never a sore butt from day one! No stiff shoulders from a bad shock. Having no rear suspension allows me to climb those hills with ease! Great on all the rocks and bumps, only slowing factor is my own nervousness! I got it at Sunnyside Sports, in Bend, Oregon (http://www.sunnysidesports.com/Bikes/Bikes.html) which had fantastic customer service and 363 days a year of tune ups! The bike is perfect for any woman looking to begin mountain biking and not just wanting to buy completely entry level, yet has to be wonderful for any biker who wants a good all around hardtail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Deplaris
a Weekend Warrior
from Oak Lawn, IL, USA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Swallow Cliff | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$520.00 | | Purchased At: | Orland Park Cyclery | | Strengths: | Stiff frame and takes my abuse. | | Weaknesses: | Lower end parts | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Iguna, Giant Reiner | | Bottom Line: | Good bike for those of us with a thin wallet, looking for something that will handle alot of abuse. A pair of disc brakes, new derailers and a crank set would make this bike near perfect. Mine came with a Judy C, could of been better, but its still entact after being beaten by a few trees and cliffs. Other than that, compare to what i've paid, most others made out like bandits. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
timothy warner
a Weekend Warrior
from 4417 N. Central Pk Ave
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lake Michigan trails Chicago | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$275.00 | | Purchased At: | Kozy's | | Strengths: | Very easy pedaling | | Weaknesses: | None so far | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale all levels, Trek all levels, Specialized all levels. This Trek 4900 is the best bang for the buck. | | Bottom Line: | Get this Mountain bike {Trek 4900} and you won't be sorry. Its very comfortable for the back. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil
a Cross Country Rider
from Waltham, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lynn Woods | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | International Bikes | | Strengths: | Great bike for the price. I purchased the 4900 as a closeout from the bike shop and got a really good price. Components are good for a beginner like myself. | | Weaknesses: | The bike didn't come with the mechanical disk brakes like I've seen on the same bike in different stores. But since I'm new to MTB I didn't have a problem with the V-brakes. Cranks, and hubs are low grade. Also this came with Judy TT forks (not the best).
| | Bike Setup: | Deore read der. Bontrager seat post, wheels, tires, and bars. Rock Shox Judy TT forkes. | | Bottom Line: | This is a good bike for anyone new to MTB. I have yet to see this bike any cheaper then what I got it for. I saw the same bike just the other day for 700 bucks at another shop (only diff. was it had disk brakes). I will probably make a few upgrades (better crank set, better brakes, and maybe step up the front and rear der). I would suggest this bike to anyone who wants to get into X/C riding and be comfortable that your bike will hold up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Leroy Hastings
a Weekend Warrior
from San Antonio TX
Date Reviewed: June 21, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$499.00 | | Purchased At: | bikeworld | | Strengths: | everything so far, fork is really stiff. | | Weaknesses: | none yet! | | Similar Products Used: | tested gary fisher and specailized...just did not feel as good | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I have had this bike for a short time, but it seems like it has a stiff frame and well adjusted components. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven
a
from Eastern Mass
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheelworks | | Strengths: | Good, strong works for most types of riding. I use it for cross-country, dirtjumping (8-9 ft), trials, and a little Downhilling. | | Weaknesses: | Terrible components, I've upgraded everything except for the bottom bracket, derailleurs and seatpost. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 820 sport, Spezialized P.2, Azonic DS-1, Santa Cruz Chameleon. | | Bike Setup: | Psylo XC fork, Deore Cranks with RaceFace Bashguard, LX V-Brakes and levers, XT Hubs with Sun Rynolite Rims, Specialized Enduro tires
| | Bottom Line: | Good bike for absolutely everything, especially if you're on a budget | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joshua
a Cross Country Rider
from Osborne, KS
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Rolls incredibably fast and easy. Very smooth and plush fork. Quality frame. Decent components for price. | | Weaknesses: | Forks rebound I thought was a little fast. | | Similar Products Used: | Just my trusty Trek 930. | | Bike Setup: | Trek 930, Duke XC, Sram 7.0 components, Truvativ FireX SL ISIS crank and truvativ XR BB. | | Bottom Line: | If your shopping for a $500 dollar bike, test ride one of these. It rolls incredibably fast and easy. My 21in 930 is about a pound lighter than my friends 19.5in 4900 but the 4900 still pedals easier than my bike. (It's the engine counts though) (Yeah, I'm jealous, I want my bike to pedal and roll that fast) This is one heck of a deal for racers on an exertremely tight budget. Oh Yeah, about the forks rebound, it felt just a tad fast to me, but I'm also used to the adjustable rebound on my Duke. It won't cause you any problems on the trail though, its just a personal preference thing. The Bottom Line on this bike is that its a screaming fast bike for the money. I think it would be good for smaller riders because it does pedal so light and easy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Antonio
a Weekend Warrior
from Mexico
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$560.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Barn | | Strengths: | Light, Strong, good brakes, great geometry. | | Weaknesses: | Not yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Alubike, Specialized rockhopper, fisher tassajara | | Bike Setup: | Rear drll 9spd | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike, climbs easy, and feels good, no back and neck pain!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a
from burke, va, usa
Date Reviewed: June 7, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | exceptional front fork, very light frame, great brakes, | | Weaknesses: | you can reall feel the shock of a hartail bike after having just ride a full suspension one. The trek doesnt absorb shock from back well at all, but the front fork make up for it. A little pricey (pricy?) w/e though. | | Similar Products Used: | raineer | | Bike Setup: | pilot c front fork, v-brakes, disc brke option is avilable. | | Bottom Line: | This is an ok bike. I do like the front fork, but I would not take this bike on any trails with dropoffs, bieng as its not full suspension and cant really take a good hit. Overall, the bike is pretty light and would be great for some really basic to medium trail riding. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Bersos
a Cross Country Rider
from Mercer Island, Wasington, U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Snake Hill | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$795.00 | | Purchased At: | Greggs Green Lake Cycle | | Strengths: | Mine came with Hayes HMX-1 instead of V-brakes so that is why I paid so much. Very light, Very Strong, strong fork, great gears, | | Weaknesses: | R E F L E C T O R S | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 4500, Specialized p.2, Pacific Blaze | | Bike Setup: | Hayes Disc Brakes, Haro F-3 Seat, Pilot Rock Shox | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike, ive grown up with the cheap toy r us bikes and they were great but i wanted to step up this time, and i looked at many bikes, and this was the one, the price did not matter to me cause it was such a nice bike. It is a great beginners bike, if you are tall cause they are a big bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Brewster
a Weekend Warrior
from Fayettville AR
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lake Fayetteville | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Gilles Cycles and Fitness of Indiana | | Strengths: | Good price. Good compenents. Very forgiving to damage. Relatively light weight. Looks great! | | Weaknesses: | Bad tires! | | Bike Setup: | Huthinson alligator golds upfront, gold pythons in back. Cane Creek thudbuster seatpost. Bar ends and all the other usual crap that wipes away a paycheck. | | Bottom Line: | Good first bike. I've owned crappy bikes before and this was my first venture into the "good bike" realm. I went in my LBS to by the 4500 and absolutely fell in love with the 4900. It looks great (which is important...would you ride a bike your not proud of?). The compenents are good and with a minimal upgrade you can make it fit your needs specifically. The Hutchinson tires work great on the bike (not to mention the yellow walls look great on the yellow bike). I would defineatly suggest the bike to those looking to enter the biking world with a quality bike that doesn't break the bank. Go TREK! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Floris
a Racer
from Netherlands, the
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | A very good shop in NY | | Strengths: | a VERY good bike, I use it every day to drive to school, 20 km a day. | | Weaknesses: | Haven't found any yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Some other mountain-bikes | | Bike Setup: | Disc brakes, usual stuff | | Bottom Line: | I just looove this bike. The disc brakes make this bike complete! I bought it at a vacation to NY for the price of $500 and I don't regret it, cause this bike is just superb. I drive about 120km a week with it and yet nothing has broken. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carlos Gorricho
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, TX
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | The Ant Hills | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Barn | | Strengths: | Great configuration for a beginner. | | Weaknesses: | Seat post quick release slips, front derailleur "hesitates" (this was actually my bike shop's mechaninc term...I loved it!) | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Stock plus Specialized computer. Soon will have to upgrade pedals...too many darn roots where I ride | | Bottom Line: | This is my first MTB and I love it. As I gain confidence on the trails the bike responds well. So far it has been me discovering what else I can do on the bike...it's capabilities seem broad. Great for beginners thinking about getting serious on the trails. I tested the equivalent Specialized and did not feel as comfortable. The bike shop you choose is also key. The guys from Bike Barn (Curt) have been great and very responsive. I have the same problems with the front derailleur; the guys at the shop have taken it seriously, have talked to Trek reps., and I am sure they will improve the situation. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Allen Coulonge, Jr.
a Weekend Warrior
from New Orleans, LA
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | GNO Cyclery in New Orleans | | Strengths: | Great first time Mountain Bike. Frame is strong and the Duke C is great shock at the price. | | Weaknesses: | The front derailler and the cranckset are not the best, but what do you expect for the money. | | Similar Products Used: | Roland junk, Pacific junk, etc. | | Bike Setup: | Full XT w/ XTR rear, Duke XC, Syntace stem & bar, Arami saddle, Cane Creek Wam Crono Ti Wheelset, Eggbeaters ;-D | | Bottom Line: | This was my first real mountain bike. I absolutely love it. I find myself making reason to ride it whenever I can. Do yourself a favor if you have never ridden a quality bike, DO IT. It makes the bike riding experience much more enjoyable. Major kudos to Trek for putting together a great bike for the price and a frame that you can upgrade even if it is a little heavier (4.2 lbs). Ratings are for the level of the bike, not compared to a Merlin or Ellsworth. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Schlenz
a Cross Country Rider
from Mödling, Austria
Date Reviewed: May 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Trek Fuel | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Strengths: | best fork I've ever seen, good shifting | | Weaknesses: | front brake cries a little bit on a long downhill ride | | Bike Setup: | new barends, shimano DX pedals | | Bottom Line: | I like it very much,the colour is grey/blue, i will tune it with red GRIFFE and red pedals,maybe red LAUFRÄDER too, | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from York, Pa
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$560.00 | | Purchased At: | Adventure Fitness and Cycling | | Strengths: | Light weight Alpha Aluminum Frame and Shimano Components | | Weaknesses: | Should probably upgrade on the front derailur. | | Similar Products Used: | First time owner of a mountain bike. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for m515 pedals | | Bottom Line: | This is my first season on a mountain bike. I have rode the bike on 6 occasions. The Trek 4900 handles very well over rocks, tree roots, and any other debris on the trail (thanks to the Rock Shock Pilot C fork). I have heard some negative comments regarding the AC Jones tires, however I have no complaints. The only negative comment I have regards the front derailur, which sometimes does not shift smoothly. Overall I am very pleased with the bike. Excellent choice for a first time rider. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fran
a Cross Country Rider
from Middlesex
Date Reviewed: April 5, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$499.00 | | Purchased At: | Onion River Sports | | Strengths: | -Good brakes
-Tires get good grip even on snow and ice
-The Pilot C shocks are good | | Weaknesses: | - I haven't found any(the quick release have not caused me any problems) | | Similar Products Used: | TREK 6000,Mongoose bikes,TREK 800 | | Bike Setup: | Factory setup but with other pedals and and i added toe cages | | Bottom Line: | Good bike for someone who is on a budget or not really into mountain biking.My frieds recommended this bike and i finally bought it and I think this is a good bike for the price range. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tylor
a Cross Country Rider
from linn creek mo usa
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | trial of 4 winds | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | oz cycles | | Strengths: | Good bike to start out with in racing. | | Weaknesses: | I broke the forke in the first two month. Other thing i have broken in the first year are, chain, derailer (front), pedails, and had all new gears put in, But i spend around 4 hours on the week days on my bike and about 8 on the weekens | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | rebuilt fork, time actc pedails, XTR front derailer, speedometer, new chain so on so on..... | | Bottom Line: | over all this is a good bike for someone that is a weeken rider. I should of got the next line up from this bike. Trek makes some of the best bikes around. I will always ride trek. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, NSW, Australia
Date Reviewed: March 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Lane Cove NP | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$750.00 | | Purchased At: | Clarence St. Cyclery | | Strengths: | Very light, fantastic spec for the cost, after Trek's 2003 price cutting efforts; supplied with Deore/LX, fork is one of the best you can get on a bike for this sort of cost | | Weaknesses: | None, really; it's proved itself rather useful, to say the least.... | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Rainier, Trek 4700 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for M515 pedals | | Bottom Line: | As an intermediate cross country bike in this sort of price range, nothing can come close- the Pilot C, although prone to bobbing when I'm really going for it, is fantastic...and the price cuts have given Trek an added appeal over others with similar specification...if you're looking for an intermediate XC bike, you can't go past it (sounds like some beginners who buy this have more image-obsession than sense...I've raced it at state level, and that's what this bike's made for)...Fantastic! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Campbell
a Cross Country Rider
from East Petersburg
Date Reviewed: February 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Green mountain cyclery | | Strengths: | strong frame and good brakes | | Weaknesses: | pedals get salippery very easily, no quick release on seat post, chainrings bend very easily, sometimes it does not shift for a while after I shift gears | | Similar Products Used: | first bike | | Bike Setup: | all stock | | Bottom Line: | It is a strong first bike and I recomend it to beginning riders the tires get good grip and it is not half bad at climbing hills or descending dow rocks and small rocks it handles and brakes exceptionally well | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd
a Weekend Warrior
from Astoria, OR
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Still looking | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$799.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikes & Beyond | | Strengths: | The whole bike seems to very well put together. I like the Saddle, the components work very well together. The Rock Shox Pilot C are a pleasant suprise. | | Weaknesses: | I have not found any. | | Similar Products Used: | First Mountain bike, | | Bike Setup: | 4900 Disc, Deore, with some LX, Alexrims Anti-snakebite Disc, which give the whole bike a very rugged look. Stock | | Bottom Line: | Iam very pleased with the 4900 Disc, The frame is something that I can someday if need be upgrade. Trek and the Dealer have put a wonderful entry level/intermediate bike together and I am glad that I have one. Bikes & Beyond have been great to work with. This bike is well worth the money I spent on it. This bike is great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anthony Sutis
a Weekend Warrior
from Bossier, LA
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | all so far | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$570.00 | | Purchased At: | City Cycles | | Strengths: | Strong and light frame, rear derailleur, and comfortable seat. | | Weaknesses: | Quick release on the seat post and front derailleur. | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first real setup. | | Bike Setup: | Bontrager crowbar, seat post, AC Jones tires, corvair rims. Alivio fron derailleur, deore rear, Shimano crank and pedals with clips(that was a mistake). | | Bottom Line: | My first time out was just yesterday. I went with a friend to one of the local trails that was suppose to be interemediate rated. The bike was awesome until I heard the metal clank and felt like like the rim hit wood but it turned out the quick release on the seat post slipped which it repeated before the ride was over. I seem to remember a review on the 2002 model with the same problem. The front derailleur gave me a little problem as well but the rear floated through the gears with no problem. The AC Jones tires held good in the wet stuff for me, as a matter of fact I probably took them trough some stuff that I'll pay for later. They did leave something to be desired on the downhills but, that could have been due in part to the leaf litter covering the trail. The brakes worked well (wet and dry) but made some noise after getting wet.
Once I get the kinks worked out this bike will handle about anything that my mind and body will throw at it. If you're a beginner and not sure how much you'll use the bike look for something like the 4300 or even the 800. If you're ready for a little excitement but not ready for a 6ft drop off a cliff then this bike should suit you fine. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Carty
a Weekend Warrior
from Harleysville, PA
Date Reviewed: February 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Thorpe | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | BikeWorks | | Strengths: | Solid feel and smooth shifting. Very light weight and easy to bounce around. I enjoy how quiet the ride is too. I'm still a rookie in this biking thing and I'm already very confident in this bike. | | Weaknesses: | I don't like the pedals, I'll probably upgrade to higher end models. | | Bike Setup: | Stock everything but the tires...I put hybrids on which was a mistake. I'll be switching to a good mud and offroad tire soon. | | Bottom Line: | As my first "official" mountain bike I couldn't have asked for more. Even the pro's who got me this bike, said it was the way to go. This bike is worth every cent and it's really helping me get into the mountain bike world. I can't wait til summer! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Goh
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: January 24, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$550.00 | | Purchased At: | Cheap John (Singapore) | | Strengths: | Strong frame, light, responsive speed | | Weaknesses: | not really hooha parts installed | | Similar Products Used: | GT Aggressor | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Rear Derailer changed from LX to XT | | Bottom Line: | I personally find that basic setup of the bike could be slight better like for example the brake system and wheelset. Nevertheless, still a above average entry level. very responsive when you need the transmission of power instantanously | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta, GA USA
Date Reviewed: January 16, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Great Escape, Greenville, SC | | Strengths: | Lightweight, great components for a price you can't beat! Notable improvements over the '02 model. | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager Jones AC Tires leave much to be desired in the gooey stuff. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Iguana, Cannondale F300, Specialized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Thudbuster, Selle Italia Max Flite Gel seat, Specialized Speed Zone computer...no major component changes yet...I'm waiting to break stuff first. | | Bottom Line: | You can't get much better than the Trek 4900 for beginners or intermediate mountain bikers looking to upgrade. After doing many comparisons and lengthy test drives, the 4900 just "felt right" compared with the Giant, Cannondale, and other bikes I tried in this price range. Just compare them for yourself and you'll see what I mean! The bike's stock components and overall light weight make this bike a tight little package. I weigh 230 lbs. and bash the hell out of it daily and I have yet to see the slightest problem. It doesn't look like I'll be making upgrades anytime soon! The Bontrager Jones AC tires are great on hard (wet AND dry) surfaces, but when the mud sloggin starts, these tires come up a little short. Nothin that some Panaracers can't fix though. Overall, the best bike for the money that I've come across after much research and shopping around! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kearn
a Downhiller
from bay area, calif... usa
Date Reviewed: December 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | albany bulb | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | pedler | | Strengths: | strong lite frame, good componants, nice price... | | Weaknesses: | still looking for one..... | | Similar Products Used: | rock hopper | | Bike Setup: | factory | | Bottom Line: | i've been trying to beat the crap out of this bike with 5ft jumps, downhill headers and the occasional bush and/or stump that won't move... but except for a little scratch on the paint, some gear tweeks, fractured pedal and a new front tire this bike holds its own.... trek continually makes quality bikes for all types of riders... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Biker
a Weekend Warrior
from NC
Date Reviewed: December 7, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$515.00 | | Strengths: | This bike is the best bike you can get for your money. Just ~$70 more than the 4500, but with a totally different design, frame, suspension, componets, etc. Super lightweight rims and frame. Also it has the Pilot C susp. fork. Very nice! Shifting is quite nice, btw.
| | Weaknesses: | None! | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | Get this bike. I bought a $200 bike before and had to keep taking it to the shop after every ride. Ugh! If you are going to be riding very often, it's worth it to save $$$ and get a good bike like this. It is totally redesigned from the 2002 model, so don't let a dealer try and talk you into a 2002 for the same price. Later- | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brandon Haley
a
from Springdale, Arkansas, USA
Date Reviewed: November 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | White Rock Trails | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$519.00 | | Purchased At: | Long's Hitch | | Strengths: | Excellent price. Bike feels like a $1000 bike. Wheels are extremely durable. Comfortable seat. Trek's warranty and assistance to answer any questions. The Deore Rear Derailleur shifts like a champ. | | Weaknesses: | Originally the bike would not shift from the middle chainring to the largest chainring without considerable grinding. This was a faulty Shimano crank. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant Iguana, Specialized Rock Hopper, etc | | Bike Setup: | Factory Setup with exception to crank - switched to Deore. | | Bottom Line: | I rode many different bikes for less than $600 before making my purchase. The Trek 4900 had the best feel of all the bikes that I rode. The bike frame is strong and the components work well together. I had a Shimano component problem but my dealer (Chris Long at 479-770-0159) and Trek went above and beyond the call of duty to fix the problem. They upgraded my crank set to fix the problem. I love the bike and you can't beat the customer service that Trek will provide. Most companies would have simply replaced the bad part but I feel that my local dealer wanted to go the extra mile for me. Thank you Trek and Chris. If you are looking for a bike under $600, I would recommend the Trek 4900. If you live in NW Arkansas, I would HIGHLY recommend Chris Long to purchase your bike from because he will go the extra mile to make sure that you are a satisfied customer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio, TX
Date Reviewed: November 8, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$530.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikeworld | | Strengths: | see Bottom Line | | Weaknesses: | quick release that holds the seat post | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I have had this bike for about a month and a half. This is my first mountain bike. So far the only problem / complaint i have about the bike is the quick release that holds the seat post doesnt do what it's supposed to do. I thought I had it tight, but the first 1ft drop i hit, the seat post slid down into the frame. (that woke me up). I took it to my LBS where i bought it from and explained the situation and they replaced it with a collar that has a allen head screw set up and it works great. the Pilot C shock works well, just took me a few rides to figure out where i wanted to set it at. Have read reviews about the Jones AC tires washing out, I have not had that problem, they work great and hold the trail. I looked at a few other bikes and for the money and the components you get, I thought it was a good deal. I am very happy with my bike. As the parts wear out I will upgrade them. To me, this is a great entry level bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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