Submitted by
Zachary Hutchings
a Racer
from Broken Arrow , Ok, USA Date Reviewed: July 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
riverside trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
I bought it from a friend
Strengths:
I love the suspension. The breaks are heavy duty.
Weaknesses:
I had to repaint it. Now the front and back arms are yellow, is that bad?
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I need new tires, but you know how the sizes go, it is going to be quite a trip to find a pair that i like that fits.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
casey lambert
a Downhiller
from merritt island, fl, usa Date Reviewed: July 30, 2004
Favorite Trail:
santos
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
adventure cycles
Strengths:
i loved everything about the bike.
Weaknesses:
trek wont back their lifetime warranty on my broken frame.
Bottom Line:
i loved this bike to death. i am still trying to find a replacement for it. if any one knows where i can find a swingarm for one, please let me know. sk8ercasey84@yahoo.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay Rothberg
a Cross Country Rider
from Holland, PA Date Reviewed: October 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
I have to pick ONE?!
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Guy's Feasterville, PA
Strengths:
I didn't die on it, but it did get a lot of looks and compliments on its radical appearance...
Weaknesses:
Swingarm and weight. Very few Disk brakes match the setup.
Similar Products Used:
Spec. Rock Hopper, GT Timberline, Ells Truth, Christini (Sigh), a number of others less memorable.
Bike Setup:
VRX 300 with Judy Forks and Shim XT or less, Icon crankset
Bottom Line:
Trek missed the mark with this one. My problems started immediately with a bent crankset on my first run at Blue Marsh, Pa. Limped the bike home and upgraded to all Shim Lx stuff. Later a Hayes disk in rear. The weight was a negative in climbing and the geometry made racking (Rhode Gear Tailrack) a nightmare. Later, after MAYBE 1000 miles (doubt it) the swingarm became loose in a range-of-motion aspect and a lateral aspect (Pivot wore out and the frame around it loosened if you can believe it). All around poor performance. The judy forks never quit and never wore but were heavy. I moved on as soon as I could afford to. The Frame remains in my garage (stripped) as a monument to impulsiveness.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
josh
a Cross Country Rider
from houston, tx, usa Date Reviewed: October 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ant-hills
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
spring valley bikes
Strengths:
good componets, realtivley stiff frame
Weaknesses:
not good for jumps, as soon as i got it i replaced the front fork with a 2001 psylo fork, weight. seatpost strips out, also replaced stem and handle bars when i bought it. e-type front shifter, cannot get to shift right
Similar Products Used:
other xc bikes
Bike Setup:
vrx with psylo front fork,xt brakes, specialized bg seat, bontager seatpost, platform pedals
Bottom Line:
good cross country bike, have taken it to alke tahoe and done downhill and held up good. good overall bike, i bout it after it had been sitting in a bike shop for two years as a parts bike, got a good deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake Pirkkanen
a Weekend Warrior
from salisbury VT Date Reviewed: October 20, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
rear suspension, weight
Similar Products Used:
other treks
Bike Setup:
stock with bombers, new pedals and getting easton bar
Bottom Line:
i really like this bike, its great for trail riding, it takes most of the bumps through the suspension. if you upgrade the front shocks you will be set with a great durable bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jon
a Weekend Warrior
from wau wi usa Date Reviewed: September 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
ski hill
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
bike shop
Strengths:
The bike is a pretty good bike for the price you pay. Rear suspension configuration is really nice havne't really had too much problems with it. Just the feel of the bike is nice wheather your going from some sick downhilling to some trail riding it can handle it. I like the fork it has but it could be beefier. The fork is nice and stiff. The bike can climb hills which is a plus.
Weaknesses:
The biggestest weakness about the bike would have to be the frame. My swingarm waas twisted so the wheel was tilted slightly to the right side. The swingarm has too many stress points on it and isn't reinforced enough. I've have broken a swingarm. The swingarm broke at teh pivoit point and had a super huge crack going down the whole swingarm. The rims on the bike are a weakness. I bent the rims. The icon crank that came with the bike broke which was a pretty weak crank. Im already on my third crank and second wheelst. It can't really hold up to some things.
Similar Products Used:
other y frames
Bike Setup:
sun rhyno lite rims w/ xt disc hubs, avid mechanical disc brakes, sun zuzu pedals, xt bottom bracket, new swingarm linkage, pivot points, fender
Bottom Line:
The bike is a pretty good bike for all purpose use. I really like the bike because you can use it from downhill-freeride-cross country. The bike can hold up to drops, jumps. It even held up to a 15 footer and numerous stair sets. The only thing i would recommend for the bike is a new wheelset, brakes, fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eric shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from scotland Date Reviewed: July 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
largs
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
frame only
Strengths:
its a bike
Weaknesses:
its a really crap bike. a bit too beefy for xc, knocks the sh!t out of you on a dh, crappy shock, bottoms out like mad. gay paintwork on swingarm chips off in big pieces.
Similar Products Used:
other ppls bikes
Bike Setup:
forks, wheels, brakes, and other parts
Bottom Line:
dont buy it. i will laugh at you if you buy this bike. im gonna try and sell mine soon. ill be lucky to get 50 bucks for it. why can i select ZERO chillis??
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paul newbold
a Weekend Warrior
from sheffield, UK Date Reviewed: May 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hound Kirk 'Road'(!), nr Fox House pub
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
evan's cycles
Strengths:
Very tough bike for the price, especially the frame (nice welds). Great downhill.
Weaknesses:
bushes wear quickly and screw the rest of the power train if not replaced fast. Swinging arm decals fell off within a month (who cares!). Overweight, can be heavy going uphill.
Bike Setup:
standard mostly
Bottom Line:
A good bike - I've done 1-1.5 thousand miles in 2 years+ of very mixed riding and only now is major stuff starting to wear; it needed new chain, chainsets, rear cassette and derraileur, and bushes, and the wheels are on their way out to. However, no major mechanical failures, only wear and tear (and I've riden on gritstone trails in the Peak District which are v abrasive).
I'd get a lighter bike if my budget ran to it but my cycling partners have bikes 300% more expensive that are maybe 30% 'better' (mostly uphill).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Hesketh
a
from Merritt Island, FL USA Date Reviewed: January 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Santos
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Adventure Cycles
Strengths:
Everything.
Weaknesses:
Nothing
Similar Products Used:
NO other Full suspension to compare it to.
Bike Setup:
99 Trek VRX 300 w/2001 Rock Shox Psylo, Xt,LX Drivetrain including bb and crank. XT cassette, sun rhino lite rims, continental tires, kore stem and skewers, titec hellbent handlebars, arch rival 50 brakes, and more.
Bottom Line:
I originally wrote a review three years ago when I first bought this bike. Obviously I've made some upgrades from the original equipment, but I have put this bike through hell and back, and it has NEVER let me down. I know there are a lot of great bikes out there, but if Trek was still building these VRX's like they did in 99, it would be the bike to have.
Downhills, tight singletrack, urban assault, launching off 5' loading docks, this bike does it all. If you can find one BUY IT. I'll keep this frame around for a long time, just add new parts when they wear out, or when I feel the need to buy the latest and greatest shocks!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gordon Ballantyne
a Downhiller
from Edinburgh, UK Date Reviewed: September 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Innerleithen
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Alpine bikes
Strengths:
Superior handling, responsiveness to big bumps, smooth travel, no pedal feedback, must I continue...
Weaknesses:
Keep the seatpost short or out of the way of the linkage plate-one hit will break it. Other than that, none.
Similar Products Used:
Cheap crappy rigid bike, various hardtails and this bike in its original form
Bike Setup:
Hope front bulb with 20mm axle on 521 rims (deore hub rear) Marzocchi Super T 6 inch travel downhill forks (ex team DRB), Tioga factory 2.1 tyres, thick downhill tubes, hope C2 pro front brake, XTR V-brake rear, AC chain device, wellgo flat pedals, Azonix bars, XT right hand shifter.
Bottom Line:
Since my last review, I have added a few more components to the bike to make it a beautiful downhill machine. It's scary fast on downhills and sucks up bumps amazingly. Looking back, it would've been better to buy the frame on its own and build it up, but then I wouldn't have appreciated the upgrades as much.
On another note, I feel that Trek didn't exploit these bikes to the full. Whilst the '99 bikes were great, the 2000 VRX's had crappy X-country components on them whilst still having a heavy-ish frame. Trek then surpassed themselves by not manufacturing the VRX's at all in their 2001 range, making it crap. However, their new DH bike, the Diesel, should make up for this.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane Date Reviewed: August 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
TC's Bike Barr
Strengths:
Strong frame, great for all day freeriding and downhilling. The Fox Vanilla R rear shock takes in the hard hits on the landings. Adjustable geometry allows rider to change the bike's setup on the go. Bike's design is for the serious freerider or the weekend downhiller. Takes huge drops and jumps smootly without a hitch. Fast on downhill sections, and climbs like a goat up the hill (which I was amazed about myself, since this is a dual suspension bike. Faster than my previous Hardtail Cannondale's!). Corners smoothly, and no annoying rear end flex from the swingarm. This is one of the best Downhill/All day Freeride bikes ever made at a very good price. I'll never look back into getting a Cannondale or GT or Specialised or Kona for a freeride bike again~! Also, the bike doesn't burn a huge hole in your pocket like the Cannondale bikes!
Weaknesses:
None, unless you decided to race this bike xc. Then the weight issue will become a problem for you. Otherwise, this bike is one hell of a downhill beast and a hell of a nice freeride bike. Trek should have advertised this bike as a freeride/dh bike.
If you're a xc rider - opt for something such as a Trek "Fuel" series bike instead of this bike.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale (F500,F700,F900sx,Super V 700 sx,Super V 2000,Raven 4000 SL), GT (Zaskar,Avanalche), Specialised Stumpjumper, Kona Stuff, Giant (ATX 1,ATX 2,Warp,ATX 980).
Bike Setup:
Trek VRX 300 frame, Marzocchi Z2 Atom front shocks, Fox Vanilla R rear shock. XT rear de and LX front de. XTR brakes F/R. Sella Italia Flite Gel Ti, XT BB, LX rapidfire shifters, DX levers, Mavic 517 rims with Shimano LX hubs, IRC tires, Cateye speedo.
Bottom Line:
SWEETEST freeride bike I have ever ridden. This bike beats Cannondale's freeride bikes and also beats Kona's freeride bikes. Frame is light for a freeride/dh bike. Strong and stiff frame, without annoying bobs which are very evident on the Super V's. SMOOTH travel from front and rear suspensions. Superior handling from frame geometry and also it's adjustablility. If you can get one like mine, GET IT~! You will NOT be DISPPOINTED. This bike is better than ANY of the bikes I have ridden in my life mentioned in the above section. Perfect for the urban assualt or the weekend freeride madness in the mountains. Frame is awesome if you have to RIDE UP the mountain!
I recommend this frame to anyone who is a pure gravity and speed gromet like myself. You will NOT regret paying for it. If you're a heavier or serious downhiller, I recommend you also invest the extra money for a pair of long travel forks. For example: (Boxxer's, X-Vert Triple, Shiver(if you can afford it), or something like a Supernova...
If you're a light and small rider like myself, I doubt you would require the large triple clamp forks, but just a nice smooth and plush marzocchi will do the trick perfectly to make EVERY one of your rides, a pleasant memorable one.
Special thanks to Tony Carson (TC), for his help kind and friendly advice and building of this absolute beauty. Thanks Tony - you're a legend~!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from Cape Town, South Africa Date Reviewed: August 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Private Sale
Strengths:
Link thingy, wicked colour, outrageous handling. I love the funky swing-arm design which should minimise the chain catching between swing-arm and the rear tyre.
Weaknesses:
Creaking from everything!
Bike Setup:
Standard but for the addition of a Rock Shox Judy XLC triple clamp front fork and mechanical disk brake on the front.
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike. I shopped around, read gazillions of reviews on this site and decided that I needed a VRX. I was right! I've done some off-roading with it, played at the local BMX track (to the puzzlement of two 11 year old boys who were putting in some track time) and even done a 20km road ride, just because I could. So far I haven't been able to find anything that the bike can't do, and I don't think I ever will. Every time I go for a ride I come back with a bug-catching grin. These bikes are no longer being made; if you find one for sale second hand, buy it without a second thought.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Stout
a Weekend Warrior
from Warwickshire Date Reviewed: July 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sherwood
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
D-Zone
Strengths:
Frame
Weaknesses:
Decals,Brakes
Similar Products Used:
cheap full sus
Bike Setup:
Hope C2's front and rear Pro Levers(Rear using a Haynes adaptor from Hope)Raceface air aloy bars,hope ti Skewers,xtr rear mech,Sid XC front forks,Mavic 317 wheels,Hope Sport Hubs front and Rear,Raceface XY Seat post,Selle Ti seat,LX shifters (haven't upgraded them yet)Shimano Crank Rings,Icon Head stem,x-lite stem stackers,
Bottom Line:
This is my second review since February 2001 and as you can see I've upgraded my bike a little. The best upgrade is still the disc's if you need control get the hope's. I broke my seat post at the top where the knurled part is so I went for the Raceface post because of the looks of it.I'm 203 lbs which isn't that heavy i don't think but the trails I go on are very tough and the orginal Icon seat post couldn't take it.I'm slowly changing all the shimano stock stuff to xtr so at the year it should be quite finished.At the end of the day all bikes out there have there good and bad points so just get out there and ride. :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lance armstrong
a Racer
from usa,altantla,ga Date Reviewed: July 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anywhere
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
mackclyces
Strengths:
tough fast built great
Weaknesses:
crankset
Similar Products Used:
lot of suff
Bike Setup:
sock
Bottom Line:
great bike the best in the world if you can find it you should get it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Max Foster
a Weekend Warrior
from Elk River, MN Date Reviewed: June 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
stealth
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
schwinn cycling and fitness
Strengths:
strong frame, good components
Weaknesses:
fork travel too low
Similar Products Used:
ellsworth truth
Bike Setup:
easton monkey lites, hayes discs, mavic crossroc UST, xtr everything
Bottom Line:
good bike for the money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Down Hill
a Downhiller
from Flekkefjord, Vest Agder, Norway Date Reviewed: June 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Nøddeknekkeren (The Ballbreaker)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2055.00
Strengths:
It is a good downhill bike.
Weaknesses:
Trek could have put on a downhill fork, Seat
Bike Setup:
All the orignal stuff
Bottom Line:
I was lucky that I got this bike on a sale. But you better change the frontsuspension. I will recomend this bike for medium experienced downhillers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Racer
from Fort Dodge, IA Date Reviewed: May 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Leif Erickson
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Scheels All-Sport
Strengths:
Fast downhiller.
Weaknesses:
Where to begin? The frame is WAY too heavy for anything besides going down, the three position linkage is nearly useless, and single pivot suspension leaves me feeling like I'm riding a horse!
Similar Products Used:
Giant Warp, GIANT XTC NRS 1!
Bike Setup:
I slapped on a Marzzochi Jr. T, set of Rolf Dolomite Disk wheels, and a pair of Grimeca System 8 brakes in order to get this beast to behave!
Bottom Line:
If you're into down hilling I suppose this beast is for you, but it's not built well enough to last at serious down hilling and not light enough for cross country. Free Ride? I tried to make this into a free ride bike because that's really the only niche it even remotely fits into.....There is a reason this bike made Mountian Biking's Top 10 WORST BIKES OF ALL TIME list! I finally got rid of her for a Giant XTC NRS, much much much much nicer! Wow, what a difference a rear suspension that actually works correctly makes!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mitch Chandler
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: April 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
don't worry about it
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Guthrie's
Strengths:
It sure is green.
Weaknesses:
Brakes suck. Squeaky.
Similar Products Used:
87 Huffy
Bike Setup:
2 wheels, seat, pedals, mucus
Bottom Line:
I suck. I fall down a lot. But for spending this kind of dough, I didn't think it would be this high-maintainance. I get a lot of pinch flats, the brake cables had to be replaced and the brakes in general are frightening. The rear shock is cumbersome and the swingarm is noisy like my old Huffy of yesteryear. And it hasn't stopped me from wrecking, how hard could it be to make me not suck? I still like it though. I have to, since I'll probably die on it. If you get it for $600-700, you'll have a good deal, otherwise look around some more. As for these guys who keep talking about how it performs on the drops...nickabocka please. Last time I checked, any trail worth a damn has always had drops.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Teddy Deljanovan
a Cross Country Rider
from DuBoistown,PA,USA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all of the one around here
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Center
Strengths:
Strenght,Fork, components, wheels, and tires
Weaknesses:
its heavy, brakes, rear shock,
Similar Products Used:
none
Bottom Line:
Nice all around free rider leaned more twords a downhill rig with the weight. I raced three cross country races with it and got 4,2,and 1st. This is a good bike for ne one wantin to start downhillin and wants a nice bike that will take what u throw at it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Stout
a Weekend Warrior
from Atherstone,Warwickshire ,UK Date Reviewed: February 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Canock Chase
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
D-Zone,Nuneaton
Strengths:
Colour ,Frame ,the Looks
Weaknesses:
Decals on the Swingarm,Chain, Seat
Similar Products Used:
Cheap Full suspension bikes
Bike Setup:
Hope C2 Disc brakes with pro levers,Kore lite 3 head stem,Selle Ti seat,Remaider from stock
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, b4 the disc's were fitted I wasn't happy about the brakes but since the disc's have been fitted the bike is great. The first thing I changed on the bike was the seat the orginal isn't great and the yellow parts on the sides get very dirty. I changed the stem for a shorter one the orginal was ok I just wanted to changed it. The colour of this bike is a real eye catcher alot of people glance at it as they walk by alot more than the boring blacks out there. Today my chain broke god's knows y, it just happens, but other than this the bike very good. I would recommend any one with one of these bikes get some disc's on it and go pure hardcore. :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jon curtin
a
from Vancouver, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
WD 40
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Sun coast cycles
Strengths:
good balance due to the tires, which i found quite fatty even though its not all out free ride. The components are decent, not too racey but they hold out and do the job just great. the front fork is pretty good for the price that you pay for it, i was impresed, judy XC special editions are nice plush shocks.
Weaknesses:
The seat hurts, thats all i have to say about it, the way that there it exposed foam on the sides makes it not such a sweet ride when it starts sucking in every drop of moisture that it comes across. The only other thing that is wrong with the bike is the ajustable travel, it should be quick release but it is not, and the difference from DH to XC is not that much, only about 2 inches. It seems like alot but its not seeeing on the effort you have to put in to change it.
Bottom Line:
well the bottom line is, this bike is very all round. for the amount of rear travel it climbs well. It can be easly used as a free ride or urban bike, but just as easly can be changed to a cross country machine. It also is quite strong, i used it almost only for urban, stairs, drops, even trials and it held out very well. I recomend this bike to any body. Just one hint though, when you go to buy it i recomend changng the seat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA Date Reviewed: January 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Galbraith Mtn
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Strong Frame, decent components, good rear shock
Weaknesses:
Front derailer, Judy (for me), the decals on swing arm
For what I paid, this is a great bike to build up. The Judy is OK for XC riding, but off jumps and drops, its really harsh. The 100 or 130mm Marzocchi is much better with the rear suspension. Within 6 months the swingarm stickers started to come off, so I stripped off all the paint so it's now polished aluminum. I don't know why Trek tried to sell this bike as XC. Much better as long travel. It handles 7 ft. drops just fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Stout
a Weekend Warrior
from Atherstone,Warwickshire ,UK Date Reviewed: December 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Grendon Wood,Ridge Lane
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
DZone,Nuneaton
Strengths:
Colour Frame
Weaknesses:
None of yet
Similar Products Used:
Various suspension bikes
Bike Setup:
as orginal other than a replacement seat
Bottom Line:
Ok I've rode this bike now quite alot and think its great. I choose the xc setting on it for going on the roads in the week and for pure hardcore stuff drop the setting down to the DH setting. After reading some of the reviews of this bike and paying 850 sterling for it I think its a good buy.
The bike weighs 29lbs 10oz which I think is a great weight if you need a lighter bike, just loose some weight :). I've thought about disc brakes for it but at present don't need them, and the extra weight isn't worth it. The paint work of this bike really sets it apart from any of the run of the mill bikes.(like the blues and red and boring black) The only thing I would like to change is a quick way to change the bike settings on the F.I.L a quick release bolt would be nice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Downhiller
from la mirada Date Reviewed: December 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any trail i ride
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
good platform to build off of.at the time the price was very good.
Weaknesses:
bontrager tires are weak,more travel in the front end,trek's service is very up and down e.g.cracked a weld on the swing arm replaced in 2 days,teflon bushings 4 weeks to replace(be careful not to over tighten bolts on the bushings they'll squezze out like butter)
had minor problems with noisy linkage,proper torque on bolts will eliminate creaking(especially on anchor bolts of shock)handles everything i throw at it!!even with the 5"travel fork the bike climbs great its an excelent bash bike. ride on brothers and sisters
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gordon Ballantyne
a Downhiller
from Edinburgh, Scotland Date Reviewed: October 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Innerleithen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Alpine Bikes
Strengths:
Solid frame, good shock, can handle anything, good components for the price.
Weaknesses:
Weak wheels, tyres wear fast, the tubes it comes with are paper thin, there is nothing to stop the seatpost hitting the linkage and breaking it(which happened to me).
Similar Products Used:
Cheap rigid bikes and a cheap hardtail
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Specialized evil twin SC tyres, Hope Sport hub on 521 rim, front Hope C2 disc, rear xtr v-brake, wellgo flat pedals.
Bottom Line:
I originally bought this bike for cross crountry, but ince I realised what it was capable of, I gave up cross country and now do downhill. The bike can handle anything, is comfortable to ride and easy to control. I keep the shock in the downhill position all the time, and after some fiddling, it performs amazingly. If you are buying this bike then make sure that the seatpost is kept well away from the linkage - I had to wait two weeks for a replacement.
The bottom line is, this bike is amazing, the frame is its main strength, buy it!! (Only four chillis for the crappy tyres and tubes)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, Canada Date Reviewed: October 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything down
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Crap's bikes
Strengths:
lightish frame, colour, shifting
Weaknesses:
being put together by fools, tubes, rear hub, brakes, swingarm, front shocks
Similar Products Used:
marin team dh,mt vision trek vrx 200
Bike Setup:
z1 qr 20 turbine lp king disc hub hayes hydro 8&6" mavic d521 maxxis mobster & high roller ring god dh stem oury grips....that is it (I think)
Bottom Line:
ok here it is. I bought the bike new and didn't like the brakes, so I had xt v-brakes (squeal!!!) put on. On the first ride my crank came loose and I could not get it tight again. After that I checked everything on the bike to make sure it was tight. I found a number of things only finger tight, these included the just installed brakes.
On 2 and 3 foot drops the shocks bottomed out, I tried to get heavier springs from the shop I bought it at, but no service. shocks are now on girlfriends bike.\
Before I changed rims I was getting a pinch flat or two on every ride I went on (even with normal thickness tubes).
The bearings in the rear hub went after about 30 hours of riding and it made strange noises when fixed.
The rear swingarm has just developed a crack in it and I have taken it back to the shop where I bought it (against my better judgement) to have it replaced. Everyone I know with a vrx has broke at least one swingarm.
Ok now the real bottom line. This is a good bike to start off riding on and if you only ride flat trails with small drops and hills it may last for a very long time. If you are dropping more than 3 feet on a regular basis... this bike will break. I am not sorry that I bought this bike, I am only sorry about where I bought it from. If you are looking to get a cheap full susp. bike then the vrx is the one to get. If you want a good full susp. bike....then look at the marin team dh or wildcat trail...I know that one of those will be my next frame. (is that 50 words?)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a Cross Country Rider
from Chelmsford Date Reviewed: October 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
FOMBA In manchester NH
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
Bike Barn
Strengths:
Very good downhill. Bombproof frame. Good components. Like the fact that you can change the suspension from XC, AC,or DH.
Weaknesses:
Have had multiple problems with the brakes, Could have put better ones on their instead of the avid 20 I'm more along the line of an XT. Noisiest bike I have ever owned or had the misfortune to know. Suspension creeks so much I feel like I am riding a bike that my little sister designed. Needs constant lubrication in the suspension so it doesn't sound like a skweaky piece of deuce. Tires that origanally were on the bike were peices of crap I quickly replaced them with huchinson python golds. Not a good climber at all.!!!
Similar Products Used:
Intense Tracer, K2 5000
Bike Setup:
change most everything besides drivetrain, handlebars, wheels, and fork.
Bottom Line:
The Trek VRX 300 has a lot of weaknesses but they are easily fixable. Over all good bike. My advice is to only buy this bike if you do a lot of fast XC type trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Worcester, MA, USA Date Reviewed: September 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Vietnam - Milford, MA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Trek Stop - S. Grafton, MA
Strengths:
Strong frame, definitely bomb-proof. Good components, very comfortable.
Weaknesses:
Judy XC front fork, Decals come off too easily, Disc brakes would be a nice touch!
Similar Products Used:
96 Trek 7000, 92 Trek 820
Bike Setup:
Stock (for now anyway)
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks. No trace of a problem yet, after 300 miles of torchuring it. Everything i have wanted out of a soft-tail so far. Can handle hard crashes and any type of terrain that you through at it. Great on downhills and uphills. The great color scheme helps too. All in all, a perfect bike by my standards (after replacing the Judy XC front fork that is).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, Ca. Date Reviewed: August 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
a secret trail we built
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$849.00
Purchased At:
Helen's Cycles
Strengths:
good components, cockpit feels good, nimble feel, pretty plush.
Weaknesses:
ditch the water bottles, chain falls off a lot in bumpy rock gardens even in big ring. The Judy XC's are WEAK. I blew the seal and the adjuster knob flew off into the woods. It was hellish waiting for the warranty repair. They're rebuilt, wanna buy'em?
Similar Products Used:
Heckler, Bullit
Bike Setup:
stock except for Manitou Xverts, will switch to a Jr. T. Schwinn platform pedals.
Bottom Line:
After riding the Santa Cruz Bullit, well I wish I had one. I paid 850.00 last year at some crazy sale at Helen's Cycles, the Bullit is 3,000. I believe "it's not the plane, it's the pilot" theory, to some extent at least. The VRX is a great bike, especially if you want an inexpensive bike that can go anywhere, not as well as some, better than some. It takes some hard hits. Bobs a bit uphill, It's stops fine, I do 4 foot wheelie drops on it, ran into trees, threw it in anger, ride over small logs. It still rides fine. The rear shock is great, I have yet to bottom that out. The Judy's are only good for casual cross country, don't jump or take big hits with them, they bottom out easily. I love my bike and all I really need is a better front fork. That'll make it a good freeride bike. Yeah disc breaks and other gadgets would be great, but I'm spending money on what I feel the bike really needs (forks, did I mention that?), and saving for the Bullit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MARCUS
a Weekend Warrior
from COURTENAY B.C. Date Reviewed: August 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
TWO SHIEKS ET AL
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
VERY COMFORTABLE RIDE (BAD BACK). PRETTY COOL ON MODERATE DH BY FAR BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK. TREK AND FORBIDDEN CYCLES HAVE BEEN TOTALLY AWESOME ABOUT WARRANTY. SEE BELOW.
Weaknesses:
SO FAR I HAVE BROKEN THE SWINGARM, THE FORKS DIED AND THE BOTTOM BRACKET PORTION OF THE FRAME BROKE. PEOPLE SAY ITS A BIT HEAVY BUT I WEIGH 250LBS SO WHO CARES.
Similar Products Used:
MARIN WOLF RIDGE,RIFT ZONE,FSR-XC,VRX200
Bike Setup:
SHORTY STEM,AZONIC DH BARS,CLIPLESS PEDALS
Bottom Line:
GREAT BIKE FOR THE BUCK, WOULD HAVE GIVEN IT 5 CHILIS EXCEPT IT BREAKS TO MUCH. TAKES CRASH ABUSE NO PROBLEM, IT'S THE STRUCTURE THAT ISN'T HOLDING UP TO MY WEIGHT. OVERALL THE MOST FUN I HAVE EVER HAD ON A BIKE. IF YOU ARE NOT SPACIALLY CHALLENGED AND WANT A FUN TRAIL/LIGHT FREERIDE BIKE THE VRX300 IS GREAT. IF YOU ARE EITHER REALLY BIG OR A SICK DH FREAK YOU SHOULD LOOK ELSEWHERE IT WILL BREAK, ALOT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Lake Oswego, Oregon, US of A Date Reviewed: August 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
This bike can pretty be used on any kind of trail. I use it almost every day and have had it for a year and it still works as good as the day I bought it.
Weaknesses:
Nothing that I can think of
Similar Products Used:
None
Bottom Line:
THIS IS THE BEST BIKE I HAVE EVER RIDDEN AND I PLAN TO KEEP AND USE IT FOR 5 MORE YEARS!!!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ruud-Jan de Boer
a Cross Country Rider
from Holland Date Reviewed: July 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Many Trails in Holland, Germany and Italy
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Bombproof frame and rear fork. Very good components on the bike.
Weaknesses:
Waterbottle mounting position.
Bike Setup:
Magura HS 33 Racing Line Brakes. Sachs PC 89R chain.
Bottom Line:
This is a very good and comfortable bike. It's a good climber uphill and it's a demon bike downhill. Also very good for long cross country rides. I'm very satisfied with this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adam
a Downhiller
from somewhere in canada Date Reviewed: July 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Similar Products Used:
trek vrx 200, giant warp ds/1
Bike Setup:
rock shock xl hayes discs
Bottom Line:
this is a pretty sweet machine!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Racer
from Lynchburg, VA Date Reviewed: July 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Big Levels-Waynesboro, VA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Versatility of pivot changes for every type of riding. XC racing, Free ride, Downhill-- all perform superbly.
Weaknesses:
Rear swing arm flexes and may crack if you weight 220# and jump and race aggressively. Trek was excellent in handling the swingarm replacement and frame warranty.
Rear brakes have a lot to be desired. Problem is with the cable routing.
Bike Setup:
Have replaced flexy Judy with Sid XL. Dual Hayes Discs and 2.3" tires has made this bike a great all-trails bike.
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Has some flex but surrives DH to long distance XC rides. Good frame to build on and upgrade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darth Darth
a Weekend Warrior
from Sickerlville NJ Date Reviewed: July 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wissihic Valley Green
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Clean design super plush ride, good componets. Front Judy shock very sensitve to small bumps.
Weaknesses:
Some rear flex on hard cuts, The only weakness.
Similar Products Used:
SuperV 1000, SuperV 400, GT1000
Bike Setup:
Stock W/Heavier coil. I weigh 185lbs.
Bottom Line:
Super plush ride. Long top tube makes it very comfortable. Bontrager rims do not squeak or squeal when brakes are applied. Bike is very responsive. Rear is active over all bumps. Great handler. With rebound ajusted half way does not Bob. If you are looking for a great bike for cross country or down hills this is the bike to own 1999 Trek VRX300. Anyone over 225lbs should not buy this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Weekend Warrior
from MA, US Date Reviewed: June 27, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I love riding this bike because it allows me to concentrate on the trail. I don't worry about it falling appart! If I'm about to do something hard, I know that it will work or not work based on MY input and MY ability, not the bike's.
All of the components are top-notch. (There are better, but any normal rider doesn't need them, especially concidering their prices.) Shifting works flawlessly and braking quickly! Any adjustments of these two components are easy to do while still on the bike. TREK puts this bike in it's top class.
I almost forgot-- it's good on almost any terain. The rear shock is adjustable for downhill, cross-country and all-class. I keep it on all-class most of the time because the trails that I ride on include all of those terain types, but it's a great feature when you're biking in someone's else's turf without prian knowledge of what you'll be riding on!
Weaknesses:
It is truly imposible to put a water bottle mount on this bike due to the position of the frame in relation to the wheels. If you buy this bike and do any serious riding, you'll have to get a cammel pack as well. (A cammel pack allows you to hold
Also, when going up very steep hills, I find it hard to lean forward enough. This is probably just my lack of skill, but test it out before you buy it. (I'm talking about REALLY steep hills!)
Similar Products Used:
Garry Fisher Joshua F4. Some others in the VRX 300 price range, but I can't remember specific ones as it was a year ago!
Bike Setup:
Y-frame. Duel suspension.
Bottom Line:
This was my first "real" mountain bike. I bought it mostly based on a friend's recomendation, but also test rides and many reviews like this one! I haven't regreted it for a moment.
I almost gave this bike 3 chilis for value because it is so expencive (I paid $1500). It is worth every cent, but I'm a little embarised that I spent that much money on a bike. It really deserves five, though, because it is one of the best in it's price range. If you can afford it, get it.
It gets four chilis overall because it is great. It doesn't get a five because there are better, but you need to spend a lot more money to see a notisible improvement.
If you want to spend this amout of money and want to ride on all types of terain (bumpy rode to full-out mountain hopping!) with complete control and cool, this is the bike for you.
Have fun! :) That's what biking is for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
werner
a Weekend Warrior
from South Africa Date Reviewed: March 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any were
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Wierd color, great handleing bla bl bla, you have to get the bike to realy feel what a bike is, and got it at a steal, of oprox $ 950 - $ 1000 us in south africa that is R 6000.so good value
Weaknesses:
well this is were the s%$t strikes the fan, firstly the bad stickers. and then the swingarm. i BROKE it, luckely is saw the damage before riding on, and the service was bad i waited about 4 weeks for a new one. but that is it.
Similar Products Used:
dimondback DBR
Bike Setup:
stock bike
Bottom Line:
well there is not much stuff to say bad from this bike, it handle well in the city, as well as down, up. it sticks to the ground on turns and the usual stuff but it was a pity about the swingarm, but i have a new one and i will see if this one will keep up with me this time. Maybe i should minus one chilli but this is to a good bike , and you know the saying "s%#t happens"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from la mirada,ca usa Date Reviewed: March 15, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
for the cash best bike around
Weaknesses:
the oe tires were good for a month some people would say its a sled
ive taken every trail up and down this bike rules. if its too heavy lose some wieght
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Cross Country Rider
from Provo Date Reviewed: March 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
amasa back
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
bulletproof
Weaknesses:
somewhat heavy
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr cannondale super v
Bike Setup:
stock except for club roost handlebar
Bottom Line:
this bike is so plush for the price. I have never ridden this much in a year. the bike flies on singletrack and rips it up on downhill. I have taken it to moab a couple of times this year and thrashed my riding buddies buy this bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john martakis
a Weekend Warrior
from brooklyn, ny, usa Date Reviewed: February 9, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
the bike I reviewed in dec. is FOR SALE. at around $1,500. actual weight is more like 25 1/2 lb.s. custom paint. call (718)748-4000, ask 4 john. thanks
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason martin
a
from augusta georgia Date Reviewed: February 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
tower trail...
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
bomb proof main frame, decent componets,cool john deere green paint, price is not so bad compared to other full suspension bikes in the same price range
Weaknesses:
mass production
Similar Products Used:
gt lts-1, trek-6000,trek-930
Bike Setup:
marzocchi z.1 alloy fork, profile riser and avid arch rival 40 brakes(full hydro disc to come soon!!)
Bottom Line:
well the first day i got my bike(after being on layaway for two months) i went for a ride at the local trail. imagine my horror when i continually heard this horrbile thunk comming from the rear of my bike. well after further analysis i determined that something just was not kosher with the bike. so back to the dealer i went, once disassembled, the dealer discovered that the bike was missing it's pivot bushings. so with a quick call to trek he ordered the part. well the part didn't show until i called trek myself(thinking that customer satisfaction is paramount in the biking world) after waiting a week and nothing. well the part finally came in and then i was back on the trail. the second ride on my bike the chain snapped sucking my derailleur into the rear wheel(stupid nine-speed) so with a call to supergo i fixed this myself. i still have not heard anything from trek as to if they are gonna live up to the warranty they give on componets for a year. anyway another month has passed and nothing has gone wrong(yet) and i really love the way this bike feels it has nice amount of travel for the east coast. and the travel it does have is ver very very smooth. so hopefully now that all the kinks are worked out i can truly enjoy what appears to be a great bike. so as far as ride is concerned(when everything is working) i give it 5 stars but as far as quality control(there is no reason why the bushings should have been missing...ie. the bike should have never left trek)i give it 3 only b/c they fixed it after a little push from the customer so overall i give it 4.....i would recomend this bike to anyone who doesn't mind the weight that comes with the plush travel... i think they do offset each other...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RJ Ballou
a Downhiller
from Truckee Date Reviewed: January 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Crack-Ass Rock, Truckee Ca.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Solid ride. Real smooth. Easy to upgrade if needed. Good price.
Weaknesses:
The seat gets uncomfortable. Breaks could be better.A front disk would be nice. Good tires would be nice also. Needs rims that aren't as soft as butter.
Overall, this bike is the best full suspention i've ever ridden under $1500. A great buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john martakis
a Cross-Country Rider
from brooklyn, n.y. Date Reviewed: December 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
stilwell woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
good design,great value in a mid priced bike ready to ride
Weaknesses:
a little on the heavy side as stock. 2000 model is much improved (ie:air shock, revised linkage, saves aprox 2lb.s)
Similar Products Used:
trek 8900, mountain cycle san andreas,misc.
Bike Setup:
vrx 300 main frame, modified rear suspension, stratos xc pro w/remote lock-out(2.5 stroke custom), syncros revolution crank & stem, all xtr except paul v-brakes(lighter than xtr).modified judy xc w/englund air 83mm cartridges.rolf's, etc..
Bottom Line:
I bought my first vrx 300 at the begining of the summer, and liked it very much. So much so, in fact, that I became infatuated with it. Soon I found myself wanting to change things and make them better, lighter, stronger,different. My one problem was that I bought a small (16) framed bike, and if you ever have the oportunity to actually compare visually the small vs. the medium frame you will notice that the small frame is, well..UGLY?!? At this point I decided to sell my brand new, small frame vrx and start over with a brand new frame,and build it up with all hand picked components and build my ULTIMATE MACHINE. I looked at santa cruz superlights, turner xc's, mc san andreas, moots, and vertually all of the bikes available and I decided that out of all of them, I still liked my vrx. not to mention that the money I saved on the purchase of my MEDIUM (17) vrx frame helped finance the heavy customizing I had in mind. The 99 vrx has an intermidiate linkage that is designed to vary the spring & compression rate to ramp up the impacts and they give you three different mount holes. they brag the fact that they have built 3 bikes in one, and it seems great. However, you will notice in vertually every review you will ever read about this bike, all riders after carefull testing of all three positions ,will always settle on the dh(most travel)position. Afterall, to have a 28lb. bike w 2.5 of travel is just plain silly. leave your vrx in dh and forget it has any other positions.If you plan on spending anything on upgrades the single best investment you can make is an air shock w/lockout. The 2nd design 2000 model is revised with an air shock and they reduced your different mounting positions to two. the problem here is that coil spring rates generally are more liniar in there compresion where as an air shock is naturally progressive.an air shock automaticaly ramps up(becomes harder to compress, the more it is compressed) In my opinion, at least part of the reason for the linkage is marketing hype. On my vrx, after careful cad analysis, mesuring travels and pivot points,and speaking to several shock manufacturers tech staff, I eliminated the linkage completely and upped the shock stroke in the process. I now have a true 4.25 suspended rear that tracks awsome!! the bike rides like a 5k race machine!!!(cost about 3k to build, best bang for the buck) If you would like more info about rear linkage eliminating, e-mail me. If you are the kind of person that will by a bike and ride it as-is and only change something if it is broke, then you will be satisfied with the vrx. If, however you are the kind of sick individual that must hot rod everything that they own, then you will also love the vrx, because it is not a crappy bike to begin with and can be built into an awsome 23lb. xc kick*@#$ machine!!!! P.S. I bought my bike knowing it was going to be stripped down to bare aluminum and get a custom candy apple paint job,with custom polished aluminum trail arm,cranks & acessories but I think that you probably could get used to that john deere tractor green if you had to. peace.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles, CA Date Reviewed: December 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the San Juan trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
more comfy than my sofa
Weaknesses:
super slappy chain
Similar Products Used:
Heckler X
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I don't want to work anymore, just want to ride single tracks. I can't really complain, I paid $850 for it six months ago. Only complaint is the chain slap and I blew the bearings out of my rear Bontrager hub. It's in the shop now so I'll see how true they are to their warrenty. Hardtails hurt my back and the Heckler cost more so I got the vrx300. All I want to do is ride this damn bike downhill. I love it. Future plans would be a front end with more travel and a rear shock with a lock out. Any suggestions please send my way.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stuart
a Weekend Warrior
from Gold Coast - Australia Date Reviewed: December 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Byron Bay
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
smooth travel, reasonable weight, good components, well priced for Australia ($3385 AUD outrageous for lucky US people)life time warranty on frame, mate had one in stock at his shop
Weaknesses:
super lite'n'super crap tubes, chain slap, stickers on swing arm
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y-22, Diamond Back V link pro
Bike Setup:
Strata lock out shock, Shimano 535 pedals
Bottom Line:
I've always liked Full Suspenion bikes, never liked weight or bobbing action that most had. I replaced the Fox rear shock with a strata lock out shock, man awesome all round bike. With this shock you have the best of both worlds, set the mount to DH position for plently of smooth travel, remote lockout eliminates the power sucking bob. Don't even try going out until you change the stock tubes - they suck! I blew the rear tube about 20 seconds out of my drive way, read other reviews, yup it's offical these tubes suck!! Small gripe, overall awsome bike! Especially for you American folk $990 bucks??? try $3385 (about $2400 US dollars) in OZ.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jim
a Cross-Country Rider
from west coast Date Reviewed: December 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anywhere
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
comfortable to ride very manuverable
Weaknesses:
componentry lack of lockout for rear shock
Similar Products Used:
VRX-400 GT Giant Cannondale K2
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
GREAT BIKE!!! loved the ride. demo'ed this bike many times trying to decide. mostly get lost riding it because of the comfort. I will probably step up to the VRX-400(an extra 200.00 at the local bike store) because of better components and value!! This bike sure beat the crap out of all the other bikes in it price range and some that were more!!!!!!!!!! CAN'T WAIT TILL CHRISTMAS!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Cross-Country Rider
from c Date Reviewed: November 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
rear suspension
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
frontier gsx
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
great for the money plush
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BRIAN
a Weekend Warrior
from PAWTUCKET,RI Date Reviewed: November 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
VIETNAM/MILFORD,MA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
EVERYTHING
Weaknesses:
DECALS DON'T LAST LONG,TO THIN TUBES,NEEDS LONGER TRAVEL FRT SHOCK
Similar Products Used:
FSR,SUPER V 800,K-2 2000,G.F F2
Bike Setup:
OEM STOCK
Bottom Line:
THIS THE BIKE I'VE BEEN WAITING LONG TIME TO BUY AT RIGHT PRICE UNDER $1500.IT SEEMS LIKE BIKE UNBALANCED AT FIRST BUT ONCE I DIALED IT IN I LOVE IT.THE ONLY THING I WISH TREK WOULD DUE IS PUT BETTER PEDALS & 100 MM FRT SHOCK,MAYBE MAKE IT ALITTLE LIGHTER.BUT ALL IN ALL THIS DO EVEVRYTHING MACHINCE. CUDOS TO TREK FOR MAKING GOOD BIKE FOR THE $$$$$$$$$$
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel Shelton
a Weekend Warrior
from FT. Lauderdale,FL and Marion, NC Date Reviewed: November 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Tsali, NC and Markaham Park, Ft Lauderdale, FL
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Nice color, Shifter, strength of the frame, tires and rims
Weaknesses:
pogos too much, too large handlebars,
Bike Setup:
stock except for FAt boy bar ends
Bottom Line:
Overall the best bike I have ever seen. Nice colors and eyecatching graphics. Took me a while to get over the pogo suspension. (broke my collar bone within the first month). Be sure to get the correct size on this bike. I got a medium and it is way too big for my 5'7 160lbs frame. I love the ease of the 9 sp shifter and the strength of the frame is awesome.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg W
a Racer
from El Paso,Tx Date Reviewed: November 1, 1999
Favorite Trail:
too many
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
suspension design, frame strength, good parts spec
Weaknesses:
narrow tires, narrower tubes, where's my 34 sprocket?
Similar Products Used:
KHS, Specialized FSR, Cannondale
Bike Setup:
stock, except for better tubes, and swapped the rapidfire for grip shift
Bottom Line:
What is there to say? I love this bike. Handles great once I got used to the wider bars... the suspension oes all its supposed to do, with no noticeable pogoing (guess years of road riding help here... smoother pedal stroke). Was not happy to find super light, super narrow tubes in it... sealant wont work like that, but my lbs took care of me here. New Gripshift works like magic. All I need are some Velociraptors and I'll be good to go. I've been able to ride stuff I never could on my hardtail. I heartily recommend this machine.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Crum
a Cross-Country Rider
from Elkton, MD Date Reviewed: October 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Fairhill Nature Reserve
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very solid constuction Reliable and light componentry 9 speed Trek geometry Trek value
Weaknesses:
Frame is on the heavy side but indestructable
Bike Setup:
Stock except shortened the handlebars and added bar-ends, Gore Ride-on cables and slime tubes
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money, got mine for $1000 at Bike Line. Mine is set up at XC with the preload at about 1/2 way of full setting and damper set down 3 clicks from full for the rear shock. I also have the preload on the front shocks up the whole way. (I problably need to put in stiffer springs on the front shocks for the 195 lbs rider). Now that I have the bike tuned in, I love it. Originally the suspension felt too mushy and I was pogoing up hills. Now it feels perfect. This bike gets better traction than my hardtail up hills but requires a little more energy to climb. The front suspension is the smoothest I've ever ridden. Virtually no stiction. I love my Rock-shox. This bike has taken the pain out of mountain biking for me (I have a bad back). The VRX also loves to catch air and land smoothly. Components have worked flawlessly with little adjustment and the wheels are still true after 6 months of pounding. Poor water bottle placement but you should use a hydration pack anyhow. Great paint job....Go John Deer. Nothing negative to say except I wish it was a little lighter. 6 stars for the value !
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from Warrington, PA Date Reviewed: October 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Valley Forge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
This bike is solid. Great handling over anything you toss at it.
Weaknesses:
Weight, little heavier than some.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn MOAB
Bike Setup:
additions: XTR Brakes & Levers
Bottom Line:
This is just an awesome bike (no other way to put it)!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan
a Weekend Warrior
from Wichita, KS Date Reviewed: October 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Devils Den State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Handling Brakes Shifting
Weaknesses:
None noticed
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Gary Fisher Joshua F3, GT4000, Cannondale V400
Bike Setup:
Added Shimano M636 Pedals Rock Ring
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks! I like the way the bike handles - the suspension eats up the trails and the components work great. I'm riding more than I ever have because of this machine!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Deke
a Cross-Country Rider
from SoCal Date Reviewed: October 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Whiting Ranch
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Too many to list.
Weaknesses:
Would have prefered a better color or no fancy decals.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
stock with an SDG Bel-air seat and a THE rear fender.
Bottom Line:
I was smart enough to wait to the end of the year and got it for $999. I was GT all the way untill I rode this bike. It handles so well in any condition. It rides like a champ, best decsision I ever made. What are you waiting for? go ride!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Philippe
a Downhiller
from Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: September 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bing Bang, Bromont
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Le cadre est merveilleusement solideLe system FIL Le service de la compagnie Trek
Weaknesses:
Les bushings du system FIL se brise facilement si l'on serre trop les pivotsLe head set est vraiment merdique
Similar Products Used:
Trek VRX 400Rocky Mountain PipelineKona Stinky 5
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Z1 Drop Off Shimano XT Race Face Hayes
Bottom Line:
Le cadre est bien structuré. La suspention arrière fonctionne à merveille si l'on enlève le petit spacer situé sur le shaft du shock. (4,30 4,70 5,20 au lieu de 3,75 4,00 4,25) Très bon velo qui peut servir dans toute les situations, aussi bien en cross qu'en descente.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seng Leong
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: September 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ubin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Striking bike. best value for money. Rides like a Lexus. Good handling and response.
Weaknesses:
the rs fork, squeaks a lot. The filmsy LX shifters.
Similar Products Used:
Spec FSR Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock bike, with SRAM Plasma shifters. A good decision.
Bottom Line:
A extremely all round good handling plush bike. It handles like a Lexus and rides like one too. Fox vanila is a good absorber. Attractive and eye catching. Just ask for an upgrade to Plasma. My bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
produde
a Downhiller
from D-Bar CA Date Reviewed: September 18, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I have Recently taken off the rear shock on my VRX and noticed that the rear swingarm drops down an extra 2-3 inches from its normal position without a rider. So I measured it out and the largest rear shock that can be put on is a 7.25 inch eye-to-eye shock with a 2.25 inch stroke. What this means is that the stock rear shock (6.5 e-t-e and 1 stroke) delivers 4.5-5 and with this new set-up 7.5 to 8 inches is achieved. I am soon going to get a rear shock of these dimensions and i will write back after I ride it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
( THE ROCK! ! )
a Downhiller
from OLD BRIDGE, NJ Date Reviewed: September 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
MERCERCOUNTY PARK!!!
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
WE RIDE CRAZY!!! JUMP EVERYTHING!!DROP OFFS!! ROOTY ROOTS!!!REAL TIGHT TECHNICAL TREES!!!! WHEN SET UP RIGHT TO YOUR OWN PREFERENCE ITS ALL ---THAT!!!!! COOL!!!!
Weaknesses:
THE FRONT SHIFTER DERAILER MAN/WHATS UP! NEEDS VELOCIRAPTOR KEVS! BAD STICKER DESIGN!!
Similar Products Used:
SCHWINN/HOMEGROWN TOMAC, GT ,TREK8000
Bike Setup:
VELOCIRAPTOR TIRES MIDDLE POSITION AC FIRM FRONT SHOCK GONA CONVERT TO AIR SOON!!!
Bottom Line:
THE ROCK SAYS LISTEN UP !!! I CANT BELIEVE HOW MUCH BIKE YOU GET!!!! I GOT MY BABY IN NEWPORT RICHY ,FL! IT WAS ON ON CONSIGNMENT!! TALKED THEM DOWN TO 9OO,OO DOLLARS !! IT WAS A DEAL!!! I BOXED IT UP AND SENT IT HOME ON CONTINENTAL FLIGHT 582!! I USAULY HAVE A BAD BACK BUT THIS IS A CADILAC RIDE!WE DO MOUNTAIN CREEK IN (NJ) ITS WAY PLUSH!! SHIFTS INCREDIBALE AFTER YOU TOON IT PERFECT!!A LITTLE NOISY CHAIN DEFLECTION BUT!! DEAL WITH IT!!IT JUMPS A LITTLE HEAVY!! BUT WITH GOOD TIRES TRACK EVEN BETTER!!! DONT BE AFRAID!! IT WILL ABSORB ALL THE PAIN AWAY!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirk Groot
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bergen op Zoom / Holland Date Reviewed: September 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ardennen- Belgium/Bielefelt- Germany
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
My first impression of this bike was on a test day 3 months ago, where i have tried simmular brands of the same quality. The TREK gave me the right impression right away. Great climing, go op the mountain like a rocket. Great looks. Keeps in the track like a tank. The list go's on and on.
Weaknesses:
The breaks arn't giving the right stopping power, who they are suppose to do.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Yoshua 3/ Be One, Hyper four.
Bottom Line:
I went with my best friend to a place called 'Bielefelt' in Germany last week, and it was the first time to have a good opportunity to tset it. And I must say,I am not dissapointed about my decission to go and buy this bike. We went there for two day's and made a 150 km. The bike helt it self very good during long downhill sessions and VERY LONG climings. Next year we will go back. For sofar I am very pleased with the bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott
a Weekend Warrior
from ny city Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
fits like a glove. comfortable ride. awesom look can be converted to full disc brakes
Weaknesses:
sticker on rear swing arm coming off,creaking sound in handel bars(think its the headset) also just noticed the rear spring is rubbing the center of the shock
Similar Products Used:
specialzed fsr,k2 flyin monkey vrx 200
Bike Setup:
all stock for now
Bottom Line:
although i haved listed a couple of weaknesses dont get me wrong. i wouldnt trade this bike for anything. i proably will up grade some things such as time passes but none are realy nesscary if money is short. as far as the rear shock rubbing i think its from doing jumps and riding off picknic tables. as far as being a slugish climber i have never had much of a problem. stay seated and you'll get up most anything.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
xerex
a Weekend Warrior
from Detroit, MI Date Reviewed: August 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Highland State
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
price,decent components, comfy,great overall bike
Weaknesses:
decals starting to come off
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great FS bike for the money.Decent parts.Very comfortable bike position for me. I'm 5'7 and 157 lbs. The ride is plush and eats both small and big bumps.Three suspension setups xc, ac and dh.Mine is on xc for my kind of riding, technical trail riding. It's a decent climber w/ good front and rear wheel traction. For me best to sit during climbs so will not be rob of some power. This bike is a joy on downhills, absorbs effectively the rough terrain. I'm usually feel beat up everytime I ride the trails here w/ my hardtail. But riding this bike, oh boy I feel like I can ride all day. My recovery is faster. This is a quality bike for the buck. Let this bike do the riding just sit. Get one now you won't reget it. My Best investment for my biking experience.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Produde
a Weekend Warrior
from D-Bar, CA Date Reviewed: August 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great bike for the money. Got mine on closeout for $830. Frame will never break and if it does LIFETIME warranty.
Weaknesses:
Not everybody has one. Could use longer travel fork but would put it out of my price range.
Similar Products Used:
VRX 200, Schwinn s-20
Bike Setup:
Stock but needed longer seatpost. Will add longer travel fork soon like DC118 or Z1 BAM.
Bottom Line:
This is a Dope Ass bike. Similar to Santa Cruz Heckler but WAY cheaper and it has adjustable shock position. Trek could get some different colors too. Bike rides flawlessly and is awesome. Judy XC is a good fork but with 110-120mm of travel in the rear it needs more than 80mm in the front. Look on MTBR classifieds and you could find great deals on used or new forks.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruce
a Racer
from Calgary Date Reviewed: August 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
too many
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great for the downhill aspects of x-country. nice balance of suspension. F.I.L gives you the option of racing in DH AC or XC modes. you can't go wrong with this bike! i love it!! very forgiving in terms of mistakes etc...
Weaknesses:
shimano can't make a front derailleur that fits right. its hard too get at if you want to change the settings. also the stock front tire dosn't grip as well as i would like it too. learned that the hard way.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain spice and a Oryx model
Bike Setup:
rear tire WildGripper DH works great for XC aswell if you have the legs.
Bottom Line:
Great bike!!! Can't go wrong. I looked at all the bikes in its class and it was the best!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dwayne
a Weekend Warrior
from fremont, ca Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
good suspension, very good shifting, no chain slap (or very little)
Weaknesses:
decal on rear triangle already peeling off
Similar Products Used:
trek VRX 400, fisher Josua F4
Bike Setup:
everything stock
Bottom Line:
great bike other than the rear decal peeling off but its not a big deal ...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mighty Joe Young
a Cross-Country Rider
from Pennsylvania Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The Dell
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
funny noise(s)
Similar Products Used:
98 Trek Y-3 98 Cannondale Raven
Bike Setup:
original stock
Bottom Line:
I've had this bike for about a week and I love it! I never thought that I would stray away from riding hardtails, but this bike makes me want to never go back. The VRX 300 climbs likes my old hardtail and rips descents like a true downhill bike. My only complaint is the funny sounds that come from the shocks, but it's very minor. This bike rules, so 5 chillis!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hopkinton, MA Date Reviewed: July 7, 1999
Cheap Brake Pads, A little on the heavy side but not too heavy
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR XC
Bottom Line:
Nice Bike for the money....Quality Construction....Size Small Frame fits me perfect, I am 5'3 and 120 lbs. This is my first full suspension bike (finally after 12 years of riding.) Will still use my StumpJumper Hard Tail however........
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Hesketh
a Weekend Warrior
from Palm Bay, FL Date Reviewed: July 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any technical trail
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
I reviewed this bike a few days ago. Great on big and small bumps alike. Great bike for grabbing some air.
Weaknesses:
The decals on the swing arm aren't worth a flip. They will start to ravel after a washing or two. I just took a blow dryer to get them hot and peeled them off.
Bike Setup:
Stock so far.........
Bottom Line:
Still give it the four flames. Trek can leave the swing arm decals off. I think it looks better anyway
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Corey White
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sayre, OK Date Reviewed: July 1, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
It eats up any obstacle on downhill. Comonent mix is good for money. Protects your butt on long rides, but is still solid in technical sections. The old John Deere green paint job is pretty cool also, especially with all our farmers here in Oklahoma.
Weaknesses:
The usual: bottle placement (get a hydration system). The seatpost is a little short (I'm 6'3). Rear triangle is a little wobbly.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Rincon
Bike Setup:
Stock setup - see Trek web page
Bottom Line:
Great Bike! Its a excellent bike for those ride a lot of different trails. While it can't climb like a hardtail or stand-up to a true downhill bike, it still does a damn good job in both areas. If you are going to be downhilling, be sure and adjust that back shock correctly or it'll bounce your ass right over the top (take my work on it). Adjusted properly you'll be great. As mentioned in other reviews, I also agree that it has a lot of chainslap especially when going downhill. I add added a little strip of cushioned tape to the underneath of the triangle and that cuts down on the noise and damage to the bike. The back end does get a little wobbly at times, but even so, I really haven't noticed that much loss of control. The rise handlebar looks good and makes for a very comfortable cockpit position, but the front end does get a little light on steep climbs making it hard if not impossible to keep your line. I've got a straight handlebar and bar ends on order and will respond back and let you know if they make a difference or if it's just me. The only thing that really drives me crazy about the bike is that the frame makes a constant creaking noise in the area of the back shock. I cannot locate the source and have completely dismantled the entire shock area looking for it. Oh well, as I guess I can live with it. Overall it's a great bike and rides great in just about every sort of terrain you can throw at it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Hesketh
a Weekend Warrior
from PalmBay Florida Date Reviewed: June 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Any technical trail
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Responsive, Value, smooth shifting, looks
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
test road c-dale V500 test road GT XCR 3000 Own Schwinn Moab Own GT Agressr
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for trimming an inch from each side of the handle bars to shorten the width of the grip.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. I'll update this review after this weekend. Will be heading to Ft Pierce and Spruce Creek to really test the bike on technical trails. Stay Tuned............ Four chillis for now.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thayer Moeller
a Weekend Warrior
from New Bern, NC Date Reviewed: June 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
solid ride, smooth, great quality for price
Weaknesses:
noo so far
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y3 Cannondale Raven
Bike Setup:
rear shock in AC position most of the time, i usee diadora shoes with the botranger pedals
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Soren
a Cross-Country Rider
from Herndon, VA Date Reviewed: June 3, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
I have ridden just over 100 miles in all kinds of terrain,mostly moderate to difficult cross country singletrack. Initially the bike needs a little tweaking depending on what kind of rider you are. First you have to set the required sag on your suspension to find out if the spring rate is correct for your weight. I set mine a little stiffer than recommended in the rear because of ground clearance. Front I set at 12mm and the rear at 7mm. The fork is way to active in the stock setting for the riding I do so your only remedy there is to change the oil. I now have 15wt oil and set to the correct level (factory was to low) they recommend 110cc per leg but only about 100cc came out. This has helped somewhat to slow this fork down. I also cut one inch off each side of the handlebar to decrease some of the leverage and make it a little easier to slalom through the trees without getting snagged. I think this bike climbs very well and the bio pacing is really minimal. It really forces you to think about your pedal stoke when you ride a full suspension bike on the crosscountry trails. I recently went to Gambril in MD. known for the rocky terrain and got to run it down some pretty gnarly descents, this is what this bike really likes, it is begging you to push it harder. So far the only problem I have found was some weird noise coming from the bottom bracket area, turned out to be the crank arms needed to be cleaned and re-torqued. I am still fine tuning my ride but so far I have been very happy and it is really a blast to ride. It is nimble and quick and feels very connected. The rear end is very solid but feel the frame is a little flexy, however this is not a major problem. I really like this bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ALEX
a Weekend Warrior
from MIAMI Date Reviewed: May 30, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I bought the damn bike and i cant ride it for another two weeks due to injuries suffered on my last ride but i am looking forward to it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate Osborn
a Cross-Country Rider
from Springfield, VA Date Reviewed: May 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Wakefield
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame is awsome. The wheel setup and brake setup is very sweet. Nice pedels to go with it.
Weaknesses:
Im 200 pound rider. The springs in the front Judy need to be replaced along with the rear coil. They need to be stronger.
Similar Products Used:
FSR comp
Bike Setup:
Manitu
Bottom Line:
This is a sweet bike. Good for cross county and minor down hill. I would put a diffrent shock set up for down hill. Be carefull how you ajust the rear shock or it will bounce all over the place. Im going to replace the coil and front springs with stiffer ones to keep from lossing all of the good travel. It does have a bad water bottel position. Get a camel pack for water. Also get some cartreg braks for the brake set up. It will incress the power of them a good deal. Or just mount some disk brakes on the mounts. Very good bike. I love it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Downhiller
from Alaska Date Reviewed: April 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Hillside
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Huge step up over the Y-bike. Nice ride, good components, good value for the money.
Weaknesses:
Rear shock. Went bad in less than 1 month. Do not like the straight lace front rim.
Similar Products Used:
'98 Specialized FSR Extreme, '97 Trek Y-3, '98 GT LTS 1500, '95 Cannondale Super V, '97 Fisher Joshua XO
Bike Setup:
Trek VRX 300, Fox Vanilla R
Bottom Line:
This is my girlfriend's bike so I've had some time and experience with it. This past weekend the rear shock started making a sucking sound and lacked any rebound dampening in the first 3/4 of the stroke. It made for a very bouncy ride. The shock was replaced under warrenty by The Bicycle Shop and now the bike rides fine. I asked if they were having a problem with the rear shocks but they said no. From one of the reviews on this site I have to wonder. It seemed that the shock lost its nitrogen charge but that is a guess on my part since nobody at the shop seemed willing to discuss why the month old shock went bad. Overall this bike is way better than the old Y-bike she used to have. The bike rides far better and does not bob to the degree of the old Y-frame. Those bikes suck, the new VRX is superior. In addition, the linkage bushings seem to be of a better quality and more protected than the ones on my FSR. I like this bike and would recommend to anyone shopping for a new bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: March 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Star Pass
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
See below
Weaknesses:
See below
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra Race, Specialized FRS-XC Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock - see Trek web page for specs.
Bottom Line:
I was indeed interested in the Klein Mantra Race, money was not a problem to purchase that bike. It was the first time that I had to get out and demo that bike. When I returned I tried out the VRX300 and the bike more fitted my riding style. The decision came down to the fact that I wanted a Full Suspension bike. The VRX was more of my riding style, on the cushy side. While the Klein served the purpose of a FS bike that acted like a hardtail. I loved the VRX!! If your looking for an FS bike, test ride as many as you can. If your lucky, ride them when the factory comes out and demo's the bikes at a local trail, as did Trek which gave me the supreme oppurtunity to check out both bikes. I'll be picking one up very soon.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Canton, MI Date Reviewed: March 18, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Very rigid frame, especially laterally
Weaknesses:
The rear end bounces all over the place. Replacing the rear shock with one that has some real damping is a must. The Mantra I rode side by side with the VRX just felt much more controlled overall. The Manitou fork was much more damped, which felt better than the Judy on the VRX. The bike also weighs about 3 pounds too much. LIVE ON OCLV! Screw the aluminum VRX frame
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra Comp, Trek Y11
Bike Setup:
I ride a 97 Y-11, which doesnt have the lateral stiffness of the VRX, but it feels more controlled in the rear
Bottom Line:
The shocks suck. Needs higher damping rates.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Opher
a Weekend Warrior
from Israel Date Reviewed: March 14, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
Well, I finally got my VRX300. Replaced the rear shock with a Coupe Deluxe with remote lockout, added ICON handlebars, WTB SST seat, and that's about it. Did a couple of rides with the new bike this weekend - its great! Handles the rocky terrain around here with no problem, and the suspended rear actually helps going uphill (our uphills tend to be very rocky as well, the suspension allows the rear wheel to stay on the ground and keep me going forward). The 27 speed is nice, the brakes are far stronger than my older shimano V-brakes, the Bontrager clipless are very smooth, and overall handling, steering etc is very nice.The only problems I see are water bottle locations (mentioned before), but I have a camelback and I only use the waterbottle bracket on the bottom of the frame for a bottle with a spare tube and tools. I also have the chainslap noise, but I might need some adjustments there. And finally - as comfortable as it already is, I am considering changing springs on the Judy and the Deluxe, to SOFT (since I wiegh 132 lbs).Buy one and have fun!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
donnel
a cross-country rider
from Richmond, VA Date Reviewed: February 24, 1999
Bottom Line:
Just wanted to clarify my earlier comments about the seatpost being too short on the small frame (mainly for those of you who emailed me asking about it). I should have said the seatpost was at least 1 inch too short, because it is actually about 3-5 inches too short for me. The seatpost that came with the bike is about 240mm long (31.6mm diameter). I am 5'5 and I replaced it with a Thomson Elite seatpost which is 367mm long and now it's just right.Even with this one complaint, I still give this bike 5 chillis because I paid $1,250 for the bike, and it is still a lot of bike for the money (and it's so much fun to ride on the trails).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a weekend warrior
from San Diego,CA. Date Reviewed: February 17, 1999
Bottom Line:
I bought my VRX300 on Thanksgiving weekend. At 5'6 165lbs I selected a small size frame.The dealer further fitted the bike for me by swaping out the following:170mm cranks for 175mm with platform clip-ins, installed a longer seatpost with cage mounts and switched the shifters to gripshifters all at no charge. The only thing I added was icon bar ends. The bike then fitted like a glove and at just under 30lbs,and then it was off to the trails. On the trails I've been able to climb up hills further and easier even in the downhill positions at 5 of travel. When it comes to rocks or rough stuff I just lean back over the rear suspension and it sucks it all up.The bike handles the singletrack trails like it was on cruise control responding to every body movement. The shifting components and gear ratio works smoothly. The only two negatives I have so far is I notice or hear a lot of chainslap when flying down rough terrain. The second is the water cage mounts. The one located underneath the lower down tube collects all the mud and that doesn't taste good. That leaves the seatpost for the only other location to mount one, but if you have it behind the seat the rear tire on compression hits the bottle (at least on my small frame). Having a hydration pack with water I at least like to take one bottle with a flavored drink so I mounted the cage in front of the seat, and it works perfectly. Basically I felt the bike enhances the skills I have and makes up for the ones I dont have. I've had flashes of moments while riding that showed me once my skills improve and stay consistent I will be in for ONE SWEET RIDE! Thanks to Bike USA for their help in selecting and fitting the bike for me. Enough already. GOT BIKE? LETS GO RIDING!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
donnel
a cross-country rider
from Richmond, VA Date Reviewed: February 1, 1999
Bottom Line:
This is a really great bike! So far I have not been disappointed with my purchase. My one small complaint however is that the seat post is about an inch too short on the small frame (but this can be remedied easily). This bike handles very well and feels light on the climbs. It's also fast on the sprints. I haven't had the bike too long, so I haven't had a chance to take it on some really rocky trails, but for trails that are moderately rocky, the suspension is plush and works well. I weigh 135 lbs and the suspension feels just right for my style of riding (aggressive on the trails and really attack the hills). This bike is probably one of the best full suspension bikes out there for its price range. Five red hot chillis because this bike has exceeded my expectations!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Watters
a cross-country rider
from stearns,ky Date Reviewed: January 24, 1999
Bottom Line:
I've only had my VRX 300 for about 3wks now and so far I haven't been disappointed. I'm making the jump to full suspension after a considerable amount of time on a hard tail. I have to admit that the AC and DH positions were way to loose for my style of riding,but the XC position is perfectly dialed. So far this is a great bike and my transition to full suspension was painless.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
André Veen
a cross-country rider
from The Netherlands Date Reviewed: January 20, 1999
Bottom Line:
I've bought the VRX 300. It's agreat bike! Holland isn't high but in our village we have a lot of mud, sand / short steep hills / dunes. We are going twice a week whith some friends. Last week for the firts time i went on my VRX, they didn't see me anymnore.... left theme far behind! They were also excited about the bike when they rode it. When you tuned the suspension to the best settings for your style of riding and weight it's a superbike. I also tested a K2, a Grisley, a specialized and a Joshua..... I choose the VRX and i'm glad about it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a weekend warrior
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have had my VRX 300 for about 3 weeks now. Since my initial purchase I added a Trek Radar computer, a jell seat instead on the original seat, I changed out the stem for one with more rise, replaced the original tube with thorn resistant (heavy) tubes, and added a cage and water bottle. I had the bike weighed and it came to just under 30 lbs (large frame) with all the mods. With all I have been on a few really good single track (rocky) rides so far and here are my initial observations. The suspension is really good but I weigh 205lbs and could use heavy duty springs. The water bottle cage is located in a vulnerable position, in front of the main frame and seems like is will get smashed by a good size boulder. The original tubes are really thin and I have had 3 pinch flats already (runnng 65lbs air) and replaced the tubes with heavy duty ones. I shopped all the other bikes in this price range and Trek offered the best components for the price. I am fairly new to mountain biking but have considerable motorcycle racing experience and love to ride fast downhill. The bike is great downhill. At 30 lbs the bike is not to heavy and I don't notice the weight in technical uphill sections, just during long steady climbs. I crashed and burned a few times when I douldn't get out of the bontrager clipless pedals (on their lowest setting). I did not opt for the VRX 400/500 because I did not want the weight of the disc brakes or the added cost, for the money the VRX 300 has much better components than the VRX 200. The important stuff... II paid 1,349 for the bike including all the mods (except the computer) from Tucson Bicycles, a truely great bike shop.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie
a cross-country rider
from Boston Date Reviewed: December 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
I work for a dealer in Boston, and last month we got a chance to test ride a few bikes at the local trail. I have been looking for a nice shiny full-sus rig to bomb around on, replace my hardtail for everyday trailriding and the occasion DH session at Mt Snow... Never having been a fan of previous Trek offerings I was fairly dubious about the VRX. If you look closely you will realize it is actually a production Santa Cruz Heckler with a few mods. Mainly F.i.l. and REPLACEABLE dropouts (missing on Heckler!). I figured fil was complete marketing BS but it actually does work. I tried it in the upper two positions, in the middle the bike was juicy all round, fun but a little bouncy for the xc riding we were doing. I then tried the upper XC position, wow what an improvement! It starts firm, but as travel progresses it gets softer rapidly. Hell I was following my buddy down a gnarly little steep, didn't even see the full size log, said sh*t! and was through it. Figured I was going to be thrown but there was enough suspension to just eat it up. That decided me the n and there, I have my VRX 500 on order. Sorry for sounding like a religious freak or something but it looks like this is going to be the under rated bike of the year.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BORELLI LEONARDO
a downhiller
from BRAZIL Date Reviewed: December 9, 1998
Bottom Line:
HERE IN BRAZIL WE HAVE A LOT OF DOWHILLS AND I FIND THE VRX IS THE PERFECT BIKE!LIKE WE SAY HERE,: É UM TESÃO DE BIKE. WORDS LEFT: DGH HGDBVF DH DGH FG HV DFH DFG SD HDFG HDVH DFH DFGH DFG DFGH VDSGH HVSDG HVSDF HVSHDF HVSD HCVDS
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike D
a cross-country rider
from Detroit Date Reviewed: November 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
Recently test rode a VRX 300, along with a bunch of other full susp. bikes with similar components for about $1400. The VRX came in second only to the Klein Mantra. The VRX is the plushest bike I've ever ridden (never been on a dedicated DH bike, though.) Superb contol over obstacles of all sizes. Looks great too, though the paint and graphics are too loud. A flashy bike is not what you want when you're pushing it up hill, which is inevitable with the long, squishy rear suspension of the VRX. It probably makes a great entry level DH bike, but the constant flex and bob would get tired quickly on the hilly trails around here. I sure wish I had it the other day though, riding my hard tail through what felt like a shallow mass grave for bowling balls. Certainly not the lightest or best climber, but high marks for handling and comfort.
Overall Rating:
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