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Submitted by
TuckerC
a Weekend Warrior
from Helena, Montana
Date Reviewed: May 31, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Helena Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | craigslist | | Strengths: | Frame is very strong. Nice components for the price. Climbs great. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Hardrock Haro Shift R1 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for tires and saddle | | Bottom Line: | Great bike! I would recomend to anyone to is seriously into mountain biking who wants a bike that is a great climber but is also very good and strong for the downhill. I am planning on getting into racing a little and I think this bike will be fantastic! I am in high school and all my friends that I bike with payed way more for their bikes and I have the nicest and most fun bike out of all of them. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Adelaide
Date Reviewed: April 15, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$3300.00 | | Purchased At: | Gawler Cycles | | Strengths: | Absolutely bombproof. A real tank. | | Weaknesses: | Standover height is a little on the hight side, even for my 6'1" self. Stock tyres. | | Similar Products Used: | Raceline Comp. | | Bike Setup: | Stock apart from new Kenda Nevegal tyres. | | Bottom Line: | I have had this bike for 3 and a bit years now and it has been subject to some real abuse and a few bad crashes. No sign of the frame cracking or any damage at all as some others are complaining about, and I weigh 95kg. As for the suspension problems people are talking about, take a shock pump on your first ride and spend some time fiddling with the pressures, its not set up right straight out of the box. Long wheelbase makes it a little tricky on real tight and twisty single track but its not meant to be a XC racer, or big huckin' freerider either. Use it for its intended purpose and it should give you years of faithful service. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Twitchell
a Weekend Warrior
from Redding, CA
Date Reviewed: February 9, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Chimney (Whiskeytown) | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Had a good time on this bike | | Weaknesses: | The frame broke | | Similar Products Used: | Previous model Liquids | | Bike Setup: | Parts from prior bike (Psylo fork, etc,) frame from latest Liquid | | Bottom Line: | I posted back in 02/05, that I'd broke 2 of the carbon fiber-stayed Liquids and then was upgraded to the newer model, well, here it is 3 years later and my "new" frame just broke. I's noticed some squaking, but never figured it out until now. It broke right at the top of the seat stay gussett where this connects to the top tube. The top tube broke clean through. I'm appreciatin' Trek's lifetime frame warranty about now. Don't know what they're going to do yet. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Considine
a Cross Country Rider
from Londonderry, NH
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | FOMBA Maze | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | Naults Cyclery | | Strengths: | I purchased the Liquid frame (only) to replace my broken NRS frame. The Liquid has typical performance qualities of other bikes in this price range. The bike/frame is nothing special. | | Weaknesses: | I was looking for a solid frame from a reputable company - I found neither. I cracked the frame at the bottom weld on the seat tube (just above the bottom bracket) following just 6 months of use. Trek agreed to replace the frame but 5 weeks have passed - no frame, no bike, no riding. | | Similar Products Used: | K2 Razorback, Cannondale Jekyl, Giant NRS | | Bike Setup: | Shimano XT | | Bottom Line: | Trek obviously has a problem with the reliability of their welded frames (see other reviews on this page). Trek also has little interest in getting me back on the trails. I’m one unhappy customer and would not recommend Trek products. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Amandio
a Cross Country Rider
from Barrie, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 2, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Copeland Forest | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Boyd Source For Sports | | Strengths: | Easy to handle through tight single track or faster downhill riding. The suspension does a great job of absorving most bumps. After 3 years still not had any problems with the shock or the fork. | | Weaknesses: | I broke the frame and it took 6 weeks to get a replacement. | | Similar Products Used: | None so far. My previous bike was a Schwinn Hardtail. Have ridden a buddy's Santa Cruz Blur but like the liquid better. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except the cranks which I have upgraded to Shimano XT. | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up post from a couple of years back.
When I read reviews of people braking frames I though these were crazzy guys doing monster drops but guess what I broke my frame on tiny 2 foot drop. In actual fact now that I think about it I had a crack in the weld above the bottom bracket the entire spring last year. It was annoying as hell as I couldn't figure out where the creaking noise was coming from. I tried adjusting the head set back and forth, readjsuted the brake calipers, replaced pads, checked hubs etc... but the creaking never went away unti.... the frame broke. It broke exactly where people were saying it did above the bottom bracket at the weld. Trek replaced the frame with a brand new frame which I believe is from a Treck Remedy. The new frame is a beaut. It is an improvement in that it has a lower top tube which gives me more standover clearance. The only draw back is that I have lost some climbing ability which this bike has been awsome at climbing but it is still quite strong. Overall I have been using this bike for over 3 years and I am very happy with it. There is nothing that at my level of riding I have not been able to do. It can do alot more than I have thrown at it so far but I am improving so hopefully the new frame will hold out. Waiting six weeks for a replacement frame was a real pain since I do not have another bike as backup. It's too bad Trek has stopped making this bike because it is a great all around bike. Light enough to keep up with the with the weight weenie bikes and strong enough that you are not worried about braking something when you hit some rough stuff. Geat bike too bad for the frame braking. If it were not for that and the 6 weeks down time I would gladly give it 5 chillies all around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Twitchell
a Weekend Warrior
from Redding, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: March 29, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | The Chimney | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Durable | | Weaknesses: | See Below | | Similar Products Used: | Earlier Liquids, Pro-Flex 855, various Fisher hardtail bikes | | Bike Setup: | 2005 Frame & shock, other parts from 2004 Liquid (Psylo Fork, XT deraillers, Hayes Brakes, etc. | | Bottom Line: | I last wrote a review in Feb, 2005. At that time, I just broke the 2nd of 2 of the initial Liquid Frames, the ones with the Carbon Fiber seat stays. The Bike shop replaced the entire frame, bottom bracket, shock, etc. with the new 2005 frame with normal, (pivoting) seat stays. I gotta say, it's still going strong. Our theory here is that the carbon fiber stays were stressing the frame to the point where it broke (both frames broke almost exactly after 1 year, and both broke at the same spot,which I notice is where other Liquids have broken). So, it appears to me that Trek has fixed the problem, and I'm a happy camper. I'd buy another Trek, no problem. (and thanks again to all at The Bike Shop.)
Funny thing, the only other frame I've broken (did I mention I'm 275 lb?) was the old Fisher Montare curved seatpost, elevated chainstay, short coupled thingie that he built for Moab climbing (shudder!). I broke 3 of those babies at about 6 months each. All at the same point just below where the chain stays hit the seatpost. Kinda like the Liquid, they weren't around long. After #3, Rex put me on an Aquila. Now there was a nice, well balanced bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
nathaniel allen-slaba
a Downhiller
from bellingham, washington U.S
Date Reviewed: September 15, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | CBC | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Kulshan cycles | | Strengths: | OK xc bike, nothing else. | | Weaknesses: | really unstable in the air, does horrible at drops, REALLY bouncy if trail is even a little technical. | | Similar Products Used: | kona mokomoko | | Bike Setup: | regular components, didn't upgrade much | | Bottom Line: | don't buy this bike if you are even thinking about getting into freeride. it doesn't inspire confidence, shuddery on technical trails, and the suspension is nothing but trouble. i've already had to replace the rear shock, and my rear deralleur was giving me alot of trouble before i bought my new bike. the only people i'd recommend it to are the occasional xc rider. other than that, this bike just plain sucks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil Pugliese
a Weekend Warrior
from NTS, Pa
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Kton 7-11 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$865.00 | | Purchased At: | Craigslist | | Strengths: | Balance and versatility. I demoed a couple of bikes before I found a deal on this one off of CL, it rocks. | | Weaknesses: | None yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel 8 | | Bike Setup: | Totally stock | | Bottom Line: | Buying a used bike is always a bit of a crapshoot. I lucked out on this one. It was dead immaculate, I don't think the bike had seed 10 miles on it. I am very hapy wit the bike for my riding needs, I can't see me needing anything more. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tetra
a Weekend Warrior
from London
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Looks good. Reasonable components. Nice suspension. Very comfortable and solid ride | | Weaknesses: | Slightly heavy, therefore not too agile.
Frames snap! I had two frames snap on me above bottom bracket within 3 years. (I notice several reviewers had the same issue). Was just doing some single track both times. Now, you'd expect Trek to do more than just replace the mainframe (making me keep all the old linkage and components) on the second failure, but no! Trek deny that there is an inherrent flaw in this bike and made no effort to ease the pain of disapointment. It took a letter from my solicitor to get any redress. How can I ever trust Trek again? The fact that they no longer produce these bikes says it all. Absolutely disgusted with Trek customer support | | Similar Products Used: | Only hardtails before the Liquid | | Bike Setup: | Standard | | Bottom Line: | This is quite a nice bike to ride, but I cannot recommend this bike because of the inherrent design fault.
How can Trek produce this kind of bike for the money and allow this kind of failure?
I, for one, will be boycotting Trek. Shame, because they had a loyal customer before this - I'd been riding treks for over 15 years.
There are many comparable bikes on the market for the money that do not snap. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colby
a Cross Country Rider
from Great Falls, MT USA
Date Reviewed: July 21, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Mount 7 in Golden BC | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | 600 | | Strengths: | Nearly Everything! The bike is super soft and yet when it comes to climbing a steep technical climb, the thing is a billy goat! It is so incredibly versitile! | | Weaknesses: | I noticed the other day that the cassette is a SRAM and it's running on an XT rear deraileur. I havent noticed any problems with it, but it kind of bothers me. The crankset isnt much to marvel at either, but is still pretty nice. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | Behold! The Nimble Tank! This thing is like riding two pillows down a mountain, but is stiff as a shot of Jack when you're climbing. I can make climbs on this thing that I cant make on my Bianchi X-C full suspension. A truly amazing machine! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James McCabe
a Cross Country Rider
from B-Water
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | CR baby | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | www.highgearcyclery.com | | Strengths: | Pretty strong, sorta light for the bike. Rims are good... 8" in the front is nice, the Bonti. stuff is okay. Did I mention lock on grips? I like those... | | Weaknesses: | Tires are horrible, fork is flexy... uhh that's about it. | | Similar Products Used: | none really | | Bike Setup: | -Manitou Sherman Firefly Plus SPV
-Tigoa Yellow something-or-another up front
-Maxxis in the rear
-Sram XO rear de. | | Bottom Line: | Works well... thinking about making it lighter for racing... doubt it. Works great for just about anything you throw at it. Won't let you down! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a
from Wethersfield Ct
Date Reviewed: May 4, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | MDC West Hartford | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Newington Cycle | | Strengths: | Fork, Shock, brakes, geometry, suspention........... | | Weaknesses: | Seat, tires, | | Similar Products Used: | GT I-Drive 3.0 (Great Bike) | | Bike Setup: | BG seat, Excavader tires | | Bottom Line: | The overall experiance with this bike has been very good. It would have been great except that Trek didn't do a very good job of quality control in the build of this bike. I kept noticeing a clunk coming out of the rear suspention whenever I rode on flat ground. At first I thought it was the SPV shock doing its thing, until one day when I was washing it down I noticed on the right rocker arm there was NO BEARING where the seatstay bolts on!!!.Newington Cycle took care of it right away(great shop)but come on man this is over a $2,000 bike. Other than that I love this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jesse
a Weekend Warrior
from New Bern, NC
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Backwoods logging trails | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Pennsylvaina | | Strengths: | Geometry, smooth suspension, great climbing | | Weaknesses: | the seat is a real pain, the seat post likes to slide on it's own, front shock is a little spungy | | Similar Products Used: | none that compare | | Bike Setup: | stock except for mallet M pedals and maxxis semi-slick high roller tires | | Bottom Line: | This is my first high end mountain bike ($1500 plus) I got it as an '04 left over and it immediately made me a better rider. I felt more confident in my skills and also more eager to improve on them. I rode most X-country at first where it rode very smooth, it actually did most of the work through the roots and rocks laiden parts. Other than the seat being a real pain after about 30 minutes of climbing, it felt very efficient the entire way.
The best part was when I took this to Diablo DH park in New Jersey. I'm 6'1" 200 lbs, and I hit some big air and the frame never cracked on me, even after an entire day of Downhill runs. This is a great all mountain bike that will satisfy the novice downhiller and affluent single track lover alike. If you lean more toward technical single track, try to shed some weight, other wise...it's a perfect ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Langdon
a Cross Country Rider
from Orfordville, WI
Date Reviewed: April 26, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Pheasant Farm | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Michael's Cycles | | Strengths: | Very stable, easy fit, warranty. | | Weaknesses: | Components | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher | | Bike Setup: | black super air 120mm, Sram 7 derailleur, Sram 3 shifters, Hayes hydraulics, Bontrager Race Crank, XT Hubs, Rhyno Lite rims. | | Bottom Line: | My frame cracked as well after 3 years of riding. I am 6'2" 230. I thought it would break sooner to be honest. I have broken two bottom brackets and torn apart 2 XT cassettes. So, it is not Trek. It is due to the fact that no bike is built for people over 200lbs plain and simple.
From the time the bike shop (Michael's Cycles) found the crack and the bike was back to ready to ride was ONE WEEK!!!!! Yeah Trek!!! Yeah Michael's Cycles!! So what if the frame cracks, that is what a lifetime warranty is for. Considering the amount of pain I inflict on my bike I can't imagine another industry that would warranty such a product.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MLB
a Cross Country Rider
from Summit County, CO
Date Reviewed: April 26, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | any in Fruita.... | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Christy Sports | | Bike Setup: | 2004 Liquid 25, all xt drive, Kendra Nev Stick-E up front, Bonty AcX in back, Mallot C's, WTB saddle, Salsa grips.... | | Bottom Line: | Updated review: After a full year on this bike, a few upgrades, and thankfully a few shedded pounds(31#'s stock, down to 29#'s), I can honestly say this bike has helped me become a much better rider. The more miles I put on it, the better it(I) get(s). It allows me to make small mistakes without paying the full price. The upgrade to XT cranks, XT front der., and Scram PC 99 chain has made a huge difference in power transfer and pedaling efficiency. The speed v comp saddle also much better suited for my body. Put a firm spring in the Black. Feels like new fork. Love the versatility of the mallot C's.
Will upgrade to a Thomson seat post and X4 stem. Also considering utilizing the Bonty tubeless rims and seeing for myself what it's all about. Will update after the season....
Anyone know where I can get a 2005 rear end for my Liquid?
Thanks
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Olympia, WA
Date Reviewed: April 7, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Mina Porter - Capital Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$950.00 | | Purchased At: | e-bay | | Strengths: | Good seating position and higher-end components. | | Weaknesses: | Have not found one yet... | | Similar Products Used: | None - got such a great deal on e-bay I just bought it w/out comparison (bike shop demo w/ less than 10 miles on it) | | Bike Setup: | Stock except chris king headset spacers and thompson seatpost. | | Bottom Line: | Going from an old hard tail to the liquid was a dream - no more sore buns. I have nothing to compare, but nothing to complain about either. I love this bike. No troubles yet as others have written about. Frankly this is more bike than I thought I could ever afford, so it is hard for me to be critical.... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from walnut creek, califorinia, usa
Date Reviewed: March 10, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | redwood regional | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | real bikes | | Strengths: | awsome geometery, good brakes, SPV, pretty light, excellent climber/downhill, best frame i used | | Weaknesses: | crappy seat | | Similar Products Used: | kona dawg, tomac 6 shooter | | Bottom Line: | the spv shocks work like a dream and the stopping power is incredible. may need a tune up about once a year. the seat absolutley sucks. if you get 1 buy a new seat with it. the climbing is almost as good as a cross country bike. 5-6 " make it an awsome downhill bike. comes w/ 8" rotor in front. hayes nine disc brakes. manitou swinger three way and manitou black fork. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BIKE | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Adelaide, Australia
Date Reviewed: February 28, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Fox Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Gawler Cycles | | Strengths: | Very forgiving and confidence inspiring bike. The suspension setup is brilliant so long as you spend some time playing with the pressures. Seems indestructible so far. | | Weaknesses: | I would say the Jones AC-X tyres that come standard are the only weak spot. If you covered them in velcro and rode on shag carpet they might grip. | | Bike Setup: | Standard so far, though I will be swapping out the tyres soon as I can. The fork is a Manitou Black Super Air, which I can't find any information about specifically, even on the Answer Manitou web site. Maybe it is a local Australian shipped fork only? | | Bottom Line: | I was looking to upgrade from my hardtail and got the chance to get an 05 Liquid 25 for $700 less than retail due to it being superceded by the Remedy. Best money I ever spent on a bike! I could never go back to a hardtail again. Takes some getting used to after bone jarring hard tail rides. Trails that made me cringe before I can now tackle much easier and with more confidence than before. Take some time to play with the suspension set up and experiment with different pressures. Use the manual as a guide to pressures, its not gospel. Replace the tyres as soon as you can too, they're rubbish. But seeing as I saved $700 and got a brilliant bike I'm not too concerned with changing out the tyres.
I haven't had any problems with the frame like some previous reviewers, must have been a problem specific to 04 model. Buy and ride with confidence!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank
a Weekend Warrior
from Powell River
Date Reviewed: December 17, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2175.00 | | Purchased At: | Suncoast Cycle | | Strengths: | Feels light and has a very comfortable stance. Hayes brakes have a solid feel and don't grab. Lots of stopping power. Shifts nice when its setup. I like the frame and feel I have alot of upgrade options | | Weaknesses: | Brakes are noisy. Seat isn't great after 2hours of riding I get some blood flow issues. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Currently stock. I have worn out the drive train at about 3500klm and am looking at converting to 8spd | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike overall. It is very forgiving on ruff trails and it allows me to stay on when others are getting off to avoid obstacles. I have only been riding trails for the past year and am happy with my choice. I will however be changing my shifters to SRAM X7 and front and rear derailleur to SRAM X9 and a Shimano HG40 8speed cassette. I ride year round, 5 days a week on trials and need something that that doesn't go out of adjustment all the time. How many gears do you really need on a mountain bike. The coast of BC has alot of mountains and steep climbs so I chose to stay with a 11-34 cassette. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gianfranco De Micheli
a Weekend Warrior
from Costa Mesa, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: December 13, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Many | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1850.00 | | Strengths: | Great geometry.
Fantastic climber and even better downhiller.
Great control and confortable riding. | | Weaknesses: | Chain slap.
Seat post slides slightly.
Little heavier than other bikes.
The standard tires are really bad. | | Similar Products Used: | Liquid 30, Giant NSR, | | Bike Setup: | Factory setup | | Bottom Line: | The bike geometry is truly amazing. Very confortable.
The bike is a little bit heavy but climbs great. I consider myself a weekend warrior but I really beat the crap out of this bike on the downhill. Result? Fantastic experience! You feel like you are floating over the single track, it doesn't matter how bumpy it is. I've been riding on some of the most masochist trails in SoCal and this bike has performed as it should. Great so far. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jow blakc
a Weekend Warrior
from arthur, nebreaska
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | i like jumps | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$25.00 | | Purchased At: | flee market | | Strengths: | this is a sikc bicke! dude, the freme is amzing. The shokc is ultra super dupre. | | Weaknesses: | the onlye weakeess theis bike has is thait it jurts alot when you ball it on 500 fut drups. it too is not fofo for gost riding if u know what i meeen. | | Similar Products Used: | i oinced had a toiled that felt as good as tthis bike when i sat on titr. | | Bike Setup: | ude, oi have a sikc setup[,i had a dual crown but i u knoed to a no suspension sfo i culd do bigger dropz if u now what i meeeeen. ha ha had | | Bottom Line: | this bicke is super. firt day, i took it on 200 fut drop. nexty day, 300 fu5t drop. fu** it hurt | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robb
a Weekend Warrior
from Asheville NC USA
Date Reviewed: November 12, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | All at Bent Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Liberty Bikes Asheville | | Strengths: | The GREAT Ride, the perfect set up, its the best bike I have been on EVER! | | Weaknesses: | NONE! | | Similar Products Used: | Kona, Raleigh, GT, Gary F | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This Bike is perfect for single track or dirt road rides. It is great here in the mountains and loves to be punished. I have had NO problems out of this bike, love the ride, and I can't see myself getting another bike for YEARS! Thanks Trek for taking me out of the market....hehehehe!!!!!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Moncton, NB, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 20, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | whichever one i'm riding at the time | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1100.00 | | Purchased At: | Used | | Strengths: | Front/rear Shocks, Frame(so far), Stopping power | | Weaknesses: | Trek Quality control: headset had no grease at all, BB had to be replaced within 6 months of light use. Hayes brakes pads are finicky to replace compared to Avid.
Need special tool to maintain wheel bearings | | Similar Products Used: | Kona, Rocky Mountain, GT | | Bike Setup: | 8" front rotor, rest is stock | | Bottom Line: | I'm glad I did not buy this new. It rides great but it has cost more to replace or maintain this bike than my other bike(s) over the same time period. The Trek quality control is terrible. I will be stripping this bike down and rebuilding it. Hopefully this will eliminate any other problems from the factory.
Overall, I won't be buying another Trek (used or new) anytime soon, considering the higher quality control of other manufacturers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Pederson
a Weekend Warrior
from Gig Harbor WA
Date Reviewed: August 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Wired Brain | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Seattle Bike Expo | | Strengths: | Over all good bike. | | Weaknesses: | Seat tube welds. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper Pro (hardtail). | | Bike Setup: | Basically stock except I switched the front fork from the Rockshox Psylo which was too soft to a Manitou Black. | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is that I like my bike. I want to love my bike but I can't. I can't trust the bike to stay in one piece. I am on my third front triangle due to the weak welds on the seat tube. Both frames cracked in the same spot. Trek has honored their lifetime warranty so far. I just got my new front triangle '05 modle with the seat tube brace but it still has the same vunerable welds on the bottom of the seat tube. Hope this one holds togather. For the record I'm 38 years old 6'2" 215 lbs. I don't jump my bike I ride hard but not abusive. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Federal Way Washington, USA
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Boise Foothills | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Greg's Greenlake Cycle | | Strengths: | No bob, quiet, comfortable seating position, stable and safe on downhills due to relaxed fork rake (head tube angle), you can really dial in the SPV shock to your liking. Overall comfort is a 10. | | Weaknesses: | Some say it is a bit heavy, but I don't notice it when riding, only when picking it up. Noisy brakes (but they might quiet down later) stands very tall at the stem - like getting on a big horse!! I might be able to crank the fork down to help with this. | | Similar Products Used: | Tried dozens, almost everything you can name. Was not looking for so much travel - started with 3" bikes for normal XC riding and just keep shopping till I found this. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. Don't know enough to make changes yet. | | Bottom Line: | Just a quick review for now, I'll add more later. The #1 reason I bought this bike after trying dozens was because of the geometry. I have short legs and a long torso which makes for a bad fit on a lot of bikes. The Liquid has a laid back seating position (seat tube) which lengthens the cockpit - finally a bike where I didn't feel like I was over the front end on the slightest downhill. This also takes weight off your hands, giving a very relaxed feel that doesn’t wear you out.
I also felt many of the other full suspensions were twitchy in their steering, but this is just me, I like a slower steering feel. This bike is like a BMW 7 series - smooth and safe - a joy to ride, but you won't confuse it with a smaller M3!! Which is to say, if you really want to tear up a trail speed wise, this is not your bike - others are quicker I'm sure.
I really just needed a basic XC full suspension - I don't do aggressive downhill, jumps, drops, etc. So this bike is overkill. But, it is safe and solid for me - and at 150lbs, I never have to worry about breaking it or even blowing out a shock because I don't push it near to what it can do. And, with some tweaking, the suspension can mimic a shorter travel bike.
Anyway, I'm an older rider (almost 50) so comfort and safety mean something to me - I don't like to crash ever. The Liquid makes me feel superhuman - just ride over the nasty stuff, keep it upright and carry on!!
Finally, I had to really research the proper setup for the fork and shock. Even the great bike shop I bought this from was of limited help. If you’ve never had a full suspension (and even if you have) set aside some serious time to get the info off the web site (answer.com) and prepare to read a foreign language almost. My reading skills are a 10 on a scale of 10, and I had to go over and over and over the material, and re-write my own instruction sheet.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Bateman
a Cross Country Rider
from Silverthorne, CO
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Short climb..LONG descent.... | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1299.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Cost, build strength, 3way Swinger SPV , good specs for price, added few #'s will make me a better climber.... | | Weaknesses: | Some will say heavy @ 31#'s, Manitou Black Elite SPV fork is SOFT | | Similar Products Used: | Upgraded from a 2003 G.F. Marlin HT | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2004 Liquid 25 except for C.B. Mallet C's | | Bottom Line: | Could not pass up the deal my LBS gave me on this bike. Spring 2005 got me a 2004 Liquid 25 for $1299(Gotta love the New and Now crowd). Have only taken out on 2 short rides, but can tell this Summer will be filled with rides. I am lucky to live in a place where you can try new trails locally, and we have 3 snow/mountain bike resorts with-in 15 miles of my home, so I wanted a bike that could handle a bit of it all. I won't be huck'in off 5+ feet drops, so I figured the 5" of travel should be enough, while still capable of climbing. Will install x-firm springs(I weigh 195#'s) next week to see if the Black Elite SPV can be saved. If not, first major upgrade will be a Fox. My Liquid weighs in @ 31#'s with CB Mallet C's. Will try and find ways to shave off a couple pounds along the way.
Updates to this review to come over the next few months.... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gordo C
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale, az
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | 100 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Rear suspension kicks ass. No bobbing on climbs. Strong brakes. Very predictable handling. | | Weaknesses: | Long break period for brakes. Front suspension could use lockout. On long flat climbs if you try to stand and climb, the front end will give some bob. | | Similar Products Used: | Test rode Specialized Enduro and Giant Reign. Liked all three, each had their strengths and weaknesses, but I liked the LBS where I bought | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Great all around bike. Have not any issues with the frame. With the new design, I hope not to have any. Also, the rear linkage vs the carbon bars on the 04 should make a big difference. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, Ca
Date Reviewed: May 4, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1999.00 | | Purchased At: | Trek Bikes in San Diego | | Strengths: | plush, fast as hell, well spec'd, lifetime warrenty on the frame | | Weaknesses: | none that I've found yet | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 8000 Hardtail, tested Specialized Enduro and Stumpjumper FSR XC | | Bike Setup: | stock for now | | Bottom Line: | This bike will not necessarily make you a better rider but it will make you a bolder rider guaranteed. I was blown away by how fast this bike is on the uphill, I'd heard some mixed stuff but my first ride on it was a 5 mile uphill fireroad/singletrack and it was so much faster than my hardtail. The rear wheel tracks the ground so well there is no loss of traction and the spv works like a charm, I'm 6'6" 210 lbs and this baby did not bob in the rear, I beat the pants off a friend in better shape riding a lighter xc full suspension rig. As well as its climbing abilities this bike descends amazingly well, the fun part of a long climb is bombing down and this bike makes it so much more fun than anything I've ever ridden, I was able to maintain control at a much higher speed and the Hayes were able to stop me on a dime. The trail I was riding last weekend is half washed out river bed and I got to take the Liquid off some 2-3 foot drops from the bank I never would have tried before and I didn't feel a thing. If you're looking for an all around trail/xc/mountain bike I highly suggest you test on of these out, I tried the Enduro and FSR and was dissapointed with the feel of the rear, it was stiff and not very responsive even when set up right. I hopped on the Trek, jumped it down some stairs at the dealer and it was love from then on. The bottom line is this bike will soak up everything and not sacrifice climbing effeciency, the only time I notice the weight is lifting it on to the bike rack but the minute you pedal it seems to drop about 5-10 lbs from the initial 30lb weight, it's bizarre. Love the bike, do yourself a favor and check one out, the frame is completely redesigned so don't have to worry about the threat of it cracking. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Al
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Bottom Line: | This bike sucks and Trek sucks. I broke my frame within 6 months of riding. Strangely enough, I broke it in two places along the seattube. At least I thought it was strange until I began reading the reviews of the various Liquid models on this website. Apparently this has been happening to a number of other unlucky riders- and in the exact same places too! And, like Micky, who reviewed the 55, I tried to get Trek to replace it with the 05 frame, since the seattube has some added reinforcements. Of course Trek simply sent me the exact same frame in a different color. And they took two months to do so. Thanks for nothing. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Québec City, Québec, Canada
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Mount Snow. | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Can really climb (if not like a pure XC bike) nice high speed handling, good at a lot of things | | Weaknesses: | some components a bit cheap, Liquid 55 probably a better choice. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro, Trek 8500, also tried Giant VT and Kona Dawg Primo. | | Bottom Line: | Maybe some talented riders will find this one a bit too 'neutral' but I like it just fine. It handles hard stuff as good as the Kona but climbs better, beats the VT by miles in my book and the Enduro is soooo very good that its hard to compare them. They are evenly matched for my riding style, with the Specialized being a bit more nervous in a positive way. But I am 100% satisfied, this Liquid suits me well and give me thrills I never experienced before. Be aware tough, if your legs cant climb heavy, look elsewhere... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Greensboro, NC
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Paceline Bicycles | | Strengths: | This bike is sweet. It just glides over roots and exposed rocks. Even those tricky angled roots are a breeze. This allows you to keep your momentum through the corners that eat you and your hard tail up. | | Weaknesses: | None noticed yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Demo'd the Cannondale Jekyll and Santa Cruz Blur | | Bike Setup: | Stock Liquid 25. | | Bottom Line: | My previous bike was a 24 pound Specialized Stumpjumper hardtail. I was concerned about moving to a 30 pound FS, but with the Liquid, the weight difference is not an issue. So far the only time I can tell that it is heavier is at the end of a climb. The legs get that nice burn just a little sooner. However, I'm sure as I ride it more, I will build a little more muscle in the areas I need and it won't be an issue. Downhills are great precisely because you have a more solid bike beneath you that smooths out the trail. I doubt I'll ever ride another hard tail again...
This bike makes you a better faster rider instantly. Be prepared, you'll be carrying more speed than you are used to.
I totally agree with Tony's review. Paceline rocks. They patiently answered all my questions and are certainly true professionals. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Tanner
a Cross Country Rider
from Denton texas, USA
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | posion spider | | Strengths: | none | | Weaknesses: | Bike is less than a year old and the seat tube broke off the bottom bracket mounting due to metal fatigue. Hays brake line to the rear can not be secured and the brakes need to be adjusted after a day of trail riding. frnot deraileur will not adujust to function properly. insufficent information on setup and adjustment for suspension. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa cruz. Marin | | Bike Setup: | stock except for custom wheels and tires. | | Bottom Line: | if the frame rippes apart in less than a year on a 2300.oo bike what does this tell you about the quality the company is putting out. why would I want another frame. I was in the process of changing the components to sram x.9 Trek only warrany the suspension bikes for one year, you get a 5 year warranty with Schwinn. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a Weekend Warrior
from KL - Malaysia
Date Reviewed: March 6, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | TC's Bike Barr Brisbane Qld | | Strengths: | Reliable, Wheels, Shock, Frame geometry | | Weaknesses: | Front Fork - see below | | Bike Setup: | Standard except for Shimano Cranks and Psylo 04 Fork | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up report. I posted one of the early reports below. Few intersting things for other riders.
I had some trouble with the compression damping in the original fork. As it works out it was an OEM (Trek Only) fork made with a hybrid of the Manitou Super Air (I think) and one of their new forks with the SPV. I had a lot of trouble getting a manual, or any sense for that matter, from the Manitou people both the distributors and from teh States. Anyway the LBS (Carso from TC's) offered a 04 Psylo SL swap and I've been very happy. My fork got fixed and resold and the bloke who bought it was very happy last time I spoke to him (I had a ride with it as well). Manitou make great forks - probably just a minor problem. Nobody else seems to get any grief.
Also I've found out the shock is also an OEM part - if you dump the air out of it and check the travel it doesn't line up with anything on the Manitou website. Be careful if you are replacing one to get the right shock. Also it only gives 4 1/2 inch travel with the Trek dudes saying the extra 1/2 inch comes from the flex in the seat stays. No big deal, just a bit of interest.
Finally I put a bash ring on and got rid of the big chain ring. I'd recommend this to anyone who does most of their riding in the bush (jungle here). The few times you are looking for the big ring are outweighed by the extra confidence you get on tricky roll over logs and you get to shorten your chain to boot (helping with chain slap, suck, etc)
Bottom line - would I but another Liquid? - you bet I would.
Again Value rating is only because Trek are so expensive in Australia
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JJ williamson
a Racer
from utah
Date Reviewed: February 22, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | 1900 | | Strengths: | 5in of travel,the looks, made in the u.s, i can use it for downhill and cross country | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Bottom Line: | the best bike i've ever rode, if you don't have one then you probably should get one, i've had kleins and santa cruz the trek is by far the best | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Twitchell
a Cross Country Rider
from Redding, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: February 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Chimney (Whiskeytown) | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop (Redding, CA) | | Strengths: | Does it all very well. | | Weaknesses: | Weak Downtubes (see below) | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Dawg & Coiler (demo only), Santa Cruz Blur (very briefly) | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2003, Rock Psylo Fork, Fox Talas shock, Adjustable suspension. XT, Hayes, etc. Only change is Eggbeater pedals. | | Bottom Line: | Love this bike! I'm a big guy (275 lb, 6' 2"), and I've been biking for a while. I came off a much modified Pro-Flex that I'd had for years (since 95). I bought the Liquid fairly soon after they came out. This bike will do things that I won't. I find myself riding faster, stopping better, and (almost) always being in control. The bike isn't as plush as others, I gather, but that's more what I was used to. I've ridden ski resorts (Northstar), local areas day rides, Downieville, & long trailrides with it.
At first, I would tend to put it in "climbing mode" on most climbs. I found that: 1. The bottom bracket is low in that mode, meaning hit pedals, etc. 2. Climbing is too easy in that mode! By that I mean that you don't have to shift your weight much, just sit & pedal. I finally went on a ride where there were lots of transitions and I kept wheelying out, as I wasn't moving forward. So, I decided just to leave it in 5" travel mode, and it does just fine. Only time I use the short travel climb mode is on long fireroad uphills (miles long), where it's smooth and steep. OK, now the downside. As I said, I'm a big guy, but I don't jump and I try not too hit things too hard. So a year after I bought the bike I was "just riding along" (honest!) on one of our local XC trails when there was a clunk and I dropped a few inches. Oops, broken seat tube, above the bottom bracket and just below the pivot. Luckily (it was a night ride) the walk wasn't bad. The Bike Shop got me a new frame in a few days, and off I went, happy as a clam. So, my bike is now (a year later)in the shop for a general lube and tune and Rex calls me saying that the new frame is also cracked. He wants to know what color I want since Trek is giving me a new 05 frame and rear triangle. Great service from both Trek and The Bike Shop! I still love this bike and am anxious to check out the changes in the new frame, which is supposed to be plusher (and stronger). I'd give it 5 Chilis except for the frame issue, so we'll see about the 05, but 4 for now. I recommend these bikes for anybody who just wants an all-around (all-mountain) bike for rougher terrain, as this bike just eats up the terrain. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Lyons
a Weekend Warrior
from Berkely
Date Reviewed: December 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Poto | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Solid frame and suspension, great components and trek quality | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | Haro X3, Cannondale 700, various hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock 17.5 frame - size perfect for 180# 5'11" | | Bottom Line: | Great bike - wanted to get proven design and light bike WITHOUT pedal bob - I got it. Perfect all mountain or cross country whatever its a solid setup and at 29.5 pretty good on weight. Recommended - will update again after 6 months. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: October 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Manly Dam | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | $2500 | | Strengths: | Great All round Bike
Suspension is awesome.
Looks great
| | Weaknesses: | Hayes Brakes continually need adjustment.
| | Similar Products Used: | Scott Genius, Garry Fisher Cake 3, Specialized Enduro
Giant NRS1, Giant VC1 | | Bike Setup: | standard except, replaced seat as the original was a shocker, shortened the stem and replaced handle bar wih a DW. Set up feels great now. | | Bottom Line: | Love this bike, I get excited every time I am going out for a ride
Once I got the Trek full suspension, I could never go bush on my hardtail
again.
I tested all the above full suspension bikes and the Trek Liquid 25 suited my requirements. As soon as I rode it I knew this was the bike for me, it felt great right away.
I would recomend it to anyone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christopher Motes
a
from Northern Va
Date Reviewed: October 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | anything with a lift | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Spokes Etc (LBS) | | Strengths: | tough as nails - I have been learning to freeride on the bike. Only things broken so far is the shifter indicator for the rear deraileur. The outerchain ring had 4 teeth filed down and one bent badly as I screamed through a rock section at wintergreen resort.
versitle. I use this bike for everything
answer 3-way swinger shock | | Weaknesses: | hayes-hfx9 brakes - These brakes needed to be constantly adjusted. I had it in the shop several time to have work done on them. They have been replaced.
only 120mm travel on front fork. I have totally loaded the front fork on some nasty sections and some drops (less than five feet) | | Similar Products Used: | Hardtails
Pedaled around other all-mountain bikes (gary fischer cake 3, Iron Horse Hallowpoint). | | Bike Setup: | Used it stock for while, now has Avid mechanical 8 inch front 7 inch rear. Mavic Crossmax XL wheelset. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike to be an everything bike. It works at the ski resort, the local trail and as a commuter.
It worked as a freeride bike before I started taking drops and whipping down some of the more rocky trails. Its still adequate, but nothing more. Suspension just can't keep up, but I wouldn't expect it to. The bike is great for learning to freeride in downhill areas. Its light enough to be carried down some of the nastier sections. The suspension on the bike really lets you know when you technique is off. HFX-9 brakes were a hazard. Poor riding technique along with lack of braking power took me out for two weeks with Post Concusion Syndrome.
The bike is more than functional as a comuter with the stock bontrager wheelset and road slicks. Its a bit heavey to pedal around after a while, but 11.5 miles isn't that far. Much more fun commute than in an Auto or on a road bike.
It is outstanding as an XC bike. It doesn't seem to climb very well (could be the rider). I really have to adjust my body posture to get weight on the front fork. I never had any problems with the HFX-9 brakes doing XC stuff.
Its a true all around machine. It can do just about whatever you want it to rather well. Just don't expect it to keep up with a freeride/downhill bike at the ski resort or with your buddies high dollar xc bike at the local trail. I can't give it five stars becuase of the cost of replacing the HFX-9 breaks. . . er uh brakes. I totally love the bike with the avid brakes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rod
a Cross Country Rider
from Barrie, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Boyd Source For Sports | | Strengths: | 5" of travel, SPV, hydro disc brakes, price | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost squeaks, rear hydro level needs replacing, a bit heavy | | Similar Products Used: | none, previous bike was a Schwinn Hartail | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike early in the year and have ridden over 600 miles on it. Im extremely happy. Its a great climber, even climbs better than my old hartail. Handles like a charm on tight single track and rolls over anything. To date the only complaints I have are a squeaking seat post and the rear hydraulic lever adjustment screw loosens during a long ride. Boyds will look after the lever once I can get it in for service. An excellent all around bike. Takes a licking and keeps on ticking. Worth every Canadian penny I paid for it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a Weekend Warrior
from Greensboro, NC USA
Date Reviewed: August 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Owl's Roost | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Paceline Bicycles Gboro | | Strengths: | Great Suspension (w/SPV), quick for it's size, rolls over anything, all day comfortable AND stable when ridden aggressively | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager wheelset and/or tires flat prone, disc brake rub | | Similar Products Used: | '99 GT XCR3000 | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | Absolutely perfect for the aggressive rider who wants one bike to do it all. I'm a big guy (6'1" 215lbs) and this bike has taken everything I've thrown at it. I ride about 20 miles a week on the pavement, plus about the same off-road. Plus I've done a few 35+ rails-to-trails rides on this bike, and except for the two issues above, it's been nothing but fun and reliable. I like the laid back geometry and high bottom bracket of the Liquid, but some XC riders might not find it as comfortable. Also the parts spec seems to be on par or better with other bikes in it's price range. The front/rear Manitou suspension w/SPV is truly awesome. Very little bob and squish for a 5" travel bike. It's extremely easy to ride beyond your abilities w/this bike. The Liquid's that good. So far I'm extremely happy with my Liquid 25 and I have to give props to Paceline Bicyles in Greensboro. The guys there were awesome to work with and gave nothing but the best service. True pros. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Arief
a Cross Country Rider
from Cilegon
Date Reviewed: August 16, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | shady single track | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | PD Mini | | Strengths: | its allround-ness, great climber, great downhiller, and very comfort | | Weaknesses: | the stock tire sucks, punctured easily, and rear tire wobbled since first bought. After 3 months, the freewheel gave me trouble. | | Similar Products Used: | NRS, JBC, | | Bike Setup: | Stock, have changed the tire to Michelin Wild Gripper | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. Great design !, but not supported with great components. The stock tires had good traction and very light, but very thin and punctured easily. It is not supported by good after sales service (in my country).
The freewheel jammed after 3 months, it is serviceable, but do not get back to the original condition, I'm thnking of changing it to XT.
However, apart from those troubles, I love this bike !, good investment and I recommend it to those want to have a "one bike for all". | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Bathurst, NB, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1890.00 | | Purchased At: | Nepisiguit River | | Strengths: | Suspension's tweakability. Looks. Quality craftmanship. Great climbing, no bob. Love the disc-brakes. | | Weaknesses: | Still looking. | | Similar Products Used: | VTs, Epics, NRSs, Fuels, ETSXs, kona's etc | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I have ridden about 600km on this bike and so far it has been a blast. I am better able to stay much more seated in the rooty singletrack then I did with my old hardtail. Very nice and fast on the downhills. Very comfortable for long epic rides. This bike fits nicely between a XC racer and a DH rig as a single quiver all-mountain bike for me. I do not race but I love playing on the same XC singletrack courses and with this bike I am having more fun. I also like playing around on the freeride stuff and even some occasional downhill resorts mixed in. I like doing it all with one bike (not that it has to excels in any one category, that's fine with me) and this bike delivers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from kenosha, wi 53142
Date Reviewed: August 10, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | southport rigging | | Strengths: | great design, geometry is excellent, smooth ride, handles great when climbing, can be used for pretty much any style of riding, basically the bike is the best investment i had ever made | | Weaknesses: | the bottom valve on the rear shock is kinda hard to get to | | Bike Setup: | race face crank arms | | Bottom Line: | this bike is a really good investment. the bike can be used for any style of riding and is very durable. the suspension is great, and the adjustments are very easy to do when setting the rebound or setting the stiffness of the shocks. if anyone is ever in wisconsin you should check out southport rigging in kenosha, they are a great bike shop. all of the employees are very friendly and know what they are talkning about. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Kananaskis, Alberta | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1749.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclepath | | Strengths: | suspension - 5" travel and SVP | | Weaknesses: | weight - 30+ lbs for 17.5" frame | | Similar Products Used: | Rocky Mountain; demo'd Cannondale, Specialized, Giant | | Bike Setup: | stock. | | Bottom Line: | Sold my hard-tail Rocky and so far haven't missed it. No pedal bob with SVP system on the Manitou. Good price point and included service at 1 month, 6 months and 1 year. Advanced riders may required upgrade to full XT compents and better tires. Disc has good feel and power. Unless you are all out racing, the trek a great choice. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Laguna Niguel, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | anything with long singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Rock N' Road Cyclery | | Strengths: | eats up everything in its path. a surprisingly good climber. no pedal bob | | Weaknesses: | a tad heavy (about 30 lbs), but with 5" of travel and a good price, I can deal | | Similar Products Used: | demoed Specialized Enduro Comp, Jamis XLT 2.0, Marin Wolf Ridge, Tomac Eli, K2 Lithium 4.0, and Kona Dawg | | Bike Setup: | upgraded the seat (WTB Speed), front der. to XT, and Cranks to XT -- I like my XT, pedals are Crank Brothers | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike! After four months of research and demo riding, this was the bike for me. Note: it was not my first choice, but after riding it, it was my last choice. I was attracted to the frame and rocker arm design, the comfortable but efficient ride. One of the determining factors (besides the ride quality) was the Manitou SPV suspension; the technology is truly amazing. When I pedal there is no bob -- it feels like my hard tail, and when I hit something I get a plush, controlled absorption of the blow. The travel is fixed (at 5")but you can stil tune the ride to you own liking; I am yet to experiment because the ride has been great right out of the shop. The guys at Rock N' Road Cyclery are great and were very patient with me; they understood that I was not going to rush into buying a bike for this kind of cash. Love the bike. Give it a try; it's a good benchmark to compare other rides against. This bike does just what I wanted it to do. Very satisfied. I will right again if there are any problems. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a Weekend Warrior
from Greensboro, NC
Date Reviewed: June 22, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Owl's Roost, Tsali, Bent Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Paceline Bikes, Greensboro | | Strengths: | Solid ride, Great brakes, 5" Travel | | Weaknesses: | It's a little heavy, however my old bike is a carbon fiber
Hardtail so anything will feel heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary fisher Cake II DLX, Voodoo | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except Thompson setback Seat Post | | Bottom Line: | This Bike is Great. The Trails are a totally different expierence on this Bike. I am a much Bolder Rider on the Liquid. This Bike Gobbles up the bumps and Obstacles, better than the Cake. The SPV system works good, Pedal bob is un-noticable. The Components are Superior to comparably priced Bikes that I Found. The Liquid would be a good choice for Intermediate or Advanced riders who enjoy Singletrack riding. My Riding Buddies are all Envious | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Duncan
a Weekend Warrior
from Lancashire England
Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Harrock Hill West Lancs | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Buy a Bike | | Strengths: | Everything | | Weaknesses: | Dont know yet | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | As recomended | | Bottom Line: | Cut 30 mins off ride with this bike fantastic on tarmac and up hill and downhill. This is the first proper mountain bike ive had (all the rest under £100) Went to Buy a Bike for a new Helmet and went back within 2 weeks to get this bike it has so much grip | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob M.
a Weekend Warrior
from Rockaway, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Cannonball | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | High Gear Cyclery | | Strengths: | Great Suspension, Good Brakes, Fun to Ride, Great Looking Bike, Seems very Durable | | Weaknesses: | A little bit heavy which can make long climbs hard, minor new bike issues. | | Similar Products Used: | Tested: Cannondale Jekyll 800 and 1000, Gary Fischer Cake 2 DLX, Specialized Enduro
Ridden: Trek 4900 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for the seat and the pedals | | Bottom Line: | Fun Bike, Great for people who like to "do it all" (i.e. cross country, freeride, etc...), It is a little heavier then some of the other bikes I tested but it felt the best to me. If you purchase this bike, you will get some good stuff for a fair price. My word of advice when buying a new bike is to test ride everything you are interested in and then make a decision that is best for you. Don't worry what other people think of YOUR bike.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sam karush
a Weekend Warrior
from ellsworth,me. usa
Date Reviewed: May 3, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | bangor woods | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | bar harbor bicycle | | Strengths: | trek quality. great feeling shock. good wheels and brakes. cartridge bearing pivots. | | Weaknesses: | seatpost slips. stock fork should be beefier. chain is hg 51. | | Similar Products Used: | kona stinky. kona dawg. specialized epic | | Bike Setup: | swapped fork for fox vanilla 125 rlc. 110 psi in shock main spring. 80 psi in spv chamber. | | Bottom Line: | this bike will save your butt when you hit something unexpected. it climbs relatively well. no suspension bob in the saddle, but it is no lightweight. excellent handling, and excellent feeling rear suspension. it feels very active under braking and pedaling through the rough, so the flex stays must be working. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shant
a Cross Country Rider
from Glendale, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: April 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Aroyo trail in Pasadena | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Strengths: | -Looks
-Shocks
-weight
-disc brakes | | Weaknesses: | -Seat post
-tires
-NOTHING ELSE SO FAR! | | Similar Products Used: | I have no clue | | Bike Setup: | Front and rear derailure changed to xtr. But besides that stock. | | Bottom Line: | THis bike is Awsome. It climbs hills like crazy. Not to mention the downhill capability. Up on the fire roads I go on the sand can get slippery and moderate-alot of rocks but the Liquid handles it really well. THe only bad parts about the bike is the seatpost and tires. The seat post slips and the tire tubes were kinda cheat. I blew my front tire twice. SO I changed the front tube. BUt besides these little problems this bike is GREAT!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Storrs, CT, USA
Date Reviewed: March 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Arcadia, RI | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$1750.00 | | Purchased At: | Scott's Cyclery | | Strengths: | 5" of travel in both front and back suspension. Efficient pedaling and excellent climbing capabilities. | | Weaknesses: | The stand-over is a little high. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Dawg, Specialized Enduro, Iron horse, Santa Cruz, | | Bike Setup: | stock + XTR rear derailleur | | Bottom Line: | This bike is amazing! I have spent the past couple months testing out bikes and this is definitely the best. Kona, Specialized, and many other bikes (with comparable drivetrain components) don't seem to match up. If you want a bike that can handle difficult terrain, endur long back country runs, and have the cojones at the end of the day to play around on the logs and swings - then this is your bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Ringwood
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Tech | | Strengths: | Made in America! Strong bike. Climbs hills great! SPV shocks work flawless. Stealth color scheme. Its a Trek! | | Weaknesses: | Stand over is a little high. The 17.5 and the 15" frame was only 1/2 inch difference in stand over, however, the top tube was 2" shorter on the 15" frame. I had to settle with the 17.5" because the reach to the handlebar was too close on the 15". | | Similar Products Used: | Fuji, Gary Fisher cake, Fuel 90, Haro werks. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Trek built a great bike at a great value. I love to ride it. It's also nice to look at. SPV shocks are easy to set up and holds air pressure well. The components on the bike work well together. The gears, brakes and suspension work perfect. The Trek dealer I purchased the bike from was just great! Rich and Scott are great people to deal with. Bicycle Tech was the first dealer to call me up to let me know that they had a Liquid 25 in stock. The staff are farmiliar with the product and helped me out every step of the way. The shop looks clean and organized. Torque wrenches are used to tighten fasteners. Plenty of care is used while working on the bicycles. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
billswheels
a
from san jose, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | braile | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Hyland Family Bicycles | | Strengths: | Made in the USA!! the frame is solid on this bike. i am also happy with the rear shock set up the spv really makes the bike a great climber, and can still handle the drop off's. | | Weaknesses: | not a big fan of the small front tire, but an easy fix. | | Similar Products Used: | gt i-drive 2.0, gt ruckus | | Bike Setup: | stock except for the front fork. | | Bottom Line: | this bike is the best f/s bike i have ridden yet. i feel comfortable riding it anywhere and going off anything that i can handle it will take it. if you are looking for a bike that does it all this is it and it's affordable. there is no sense in paying the same price for a frame as you would for this bike. i can't wait to ride it again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon Jeffery
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane, Qld, Aust
Date Reviewed: February 14, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Gap Creek Reserve | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | T.C.'s Bike Barr | | Strengths: | Relatively light 5" bike.
Manitou SPV works well.
Back up and reputation of TREK
Wheel sets are light and strong. I'll fill the tyres with Stan's No Tubes so and they'll be unstoppable. | | Weaknesses: | Usual new bike squeeks - no big deal. Most annoying one ended up being the bolt that clamps the seat on. A squirt of WD40 fixed that. Also the Liquid is one of the more expensive "trail" bikes in Australia due to the American frame I guess (the others below have frames made in Taiwan). | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro, Trek Fuel 90. Giant VT | | Bike Setup: | Swapped Bontranger cranks to splined Shimano hollotechs. My prior bike was a Fuel 90 and it suffered bad chain suck till I swapped its cranks over so thought "better play it safe". Rest is stock standard as per the Trek web site. | | Bottom Line: | I'm very happy with the bike. Initially I was concerend about the price (I've tried to convert the price to US dollars above). Carso at LBS gave me the best price he could and some. Its the whole "made in USA" thing. What I can say from experience is TREK stand behind their products 100% here in Qld which is why I stayed with the Liquid.
This is a great everyday bike that is light enought to climb with your mates on their 26lb hardtails then decend with your other mates on their 40lb+ freeride bikes soaking up whatever you come across up to 5' (way beyond my limit). My bike has the 19.5cm frame (large) that weighs in at 32 lbs which seems OK considering the 5 inch suspension. I can ride around the bush for hours end enjoy every minute (not just the flat and down stuff). I'd recommend this bike to anyone who wanted an all round fun bike or someone who was sick of damaging their lightweight dual suspension race bike.
I set up the suspension as per Manitous recommendations (with sag and SPV pressure) and the rear is spot on. I think the forks are a little stiff and am considering getting a lighter spring fitted (and keeping the SPV pressure up) - not sure just yet. I'm finding that being relatively new in Australia there isn't a great level of knowledge on the SPV. I'm hoping we can get some more reviews on this site. As I mentioned before I swapped out the cranks - maybe with this bike I didn't have to do this but I had a bad run on my old Fuel 90 with those Bontranger cranks. Everything else on the bike works well as specced from new. If you decide to buy one, even keep the tyres - they work well on the hard dry ground we have here and you may be surprised at how well they work.
In a nutshell - "I'm stoked" | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Concord,NH-USA
Date Reviewed: February 7, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Long travel, SPV, handling, solid bars, brakes, good looks. | | Weaknesses: | Seat, brake levers loosen up. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel 90, K2 Razorback. | | Bike Setup: | Specialized seat, XT shifters, lighter seatpost. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a nexcellant all around ride. The SPV shock in the rear works! It really stops any pogo effect. I find the SPV to be less of an issue up front, but still helpful. I like the brakes, but the levers loosen a bit now and then. The new thicker stem and bar setup is very stiff, no flex noted. I like the 5 inches of travel and with the SPV shock and fork, I feel it was better to go with the fixed 5 inches as opposed to the other adjustable travel liquids. This bike is very smooth on the trail, fun to ride and was reasonably priced. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Dodds
a Cross Country Rider
from Kilwinning, Scotland
Date Reviewed: February 4, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere in Scotland! | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Alpine Bikes | | Strengths: | Stunning Bike
Low weight
New SPV shock/forks work incredibly well and are stupidly simple to set up
Its a Trek.... 'Nuff said! | | Weaknesses: | Stock tyres aren't really suited to typical Scottish weather (ie, rain!) | | Similar Products Used: | GT I-Drive | | Bike Setup: | As specced by Trek | | Bottom Line: | The ultimate all-round mountain bike. Climbs as well, if not better than a hardtail and the 5" work a treat on the descents. After watching my bike, all my mates remarked on how well the rear wheel tracked the ground.
If you consider yourself an all rounder, you MUST buy this bike. Full stop (just change the tyres if you like mud!). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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