Submitted by
Zak
a Weekend Warrior
from Massachusetts Date Reviewed: October 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Strengths:
frame
Weaknesses:
worst fork on the face of the earth....
Bike Setup:
all shimano stuff (LX, etc.)
Bottom Line:
For the price, it's an incredible bike except for the front fork. It is terrible. When you buy this bike, expect to add on $150-300 to the price for a decent front fork. Other than that, its good. The frame is wicked strong and can handle a lot. So it starts with 5 chilis but -1 for the fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zak
a Weekend Warrior
from Massachusetts Date Reviewed: October 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Strengths:
frame
Weaknesses:
worst fork on the face of the earth....
Bike Setup:
all shimano stuff (LX, etc.)
Bottom Line:
For the price, it's an incredible bike except for the front fork. It is terrible. When you buy this bike, expect to add on $150-300 to the price for a decent front fork. Other than that, its good. The frame is wicked strong and can handle a lot. So it starts with 5 chilis but -1 for the fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chance
a Weekend Warrior
from highlands ranch colorado usa Date Reviewed: October 15, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
good gears and shocks, nice design, tough and reliable
Weaknesses:
cant think of any
Bottom Line:
great for every thing all the time. highly recomend it if you can find one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe d
a Weekend Warrior
from wanaque, nj Date Reviewed: May 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
skyline trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Strengths:
The frame is the best strength of the bike
Weaknesses:
front and rear shock, all components
Bike Setup:
marzzochi z1-bam,all shimano xtr components, king headset, hayes disc brakes
Bottom Line:
I had this bike for 9 years and changed everything on the bike. I have a new cannondale but I prefer to ride my y3. I get compliments all the time on this bike I guess becuase it looks like an Italian bike because the frame is red, tires are green, seat is white. This bike kicks ass
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray Stetler
a Weekend Warrior
from Honolulu, HI Date Reviewed: December 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hanama Bay Fire Road
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
The price of a surf board
Strengths:
Frame strength and design. I have pounded the hell out of this thing and I couldn't break it.
Weaknesses:
Stock fork, shock, cassett, and brakes. It would be better to just buy the frame.
Similar Products Used:
Marin FS
Bottom Line:
I got this bike because a friend of mine wanted one of my boards but he didn't have any cash so I took the Y3 in trade. When I first got it I hated the thing. I am 6'2" and weigh 210. The suspension couldn't handle it. I did everything I could to trash it but the FN thing wouldn't break. I took it to a skate park and rode it on the half-pipe (not recommended), I rode it (more like tumbled with it) down Diamond Head, and all that broke was my helmet (compliments of the half-pipe). After a few months I decided to put some money into it and see if it had any real potential. I reequipped it with Hayes disks, Fox rear shock, Manitou fork, Shimano XTR cassette, and a bunch of other goodies. I must say, you put about $4,000 into the Y3 and you will have a damn good MB/DHB.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kraig Minner
a Weekend Warrior
from 467 Springhouse Rd Date Reviewed: July 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
InGear Cycling and Fitness
Strengths:
The bike is a great first bike, and is considerably lighter than some. I have beat the hell out of it and the most i ever did was break the bottom bracket, but it wasn't really my fault, the cycling center screwed up. The rear shifter (D'ore) is also rugged and if i haven't broken it yet, then its one hell of a piece of metal.
Weaknesses:
The shocks could use some replacing. The front is ok, but the rear fox is rough and hard to adjust. the seat is utterly uncomfortable after an hour of riding, but other than that, i have had not too much trouble. Oh, i twisted up a rim once, but that was also my fault, not the bike design.
Bottom Line:
The bike is a great first bike, but needs some work to get it competitive with the bigger bikes. I would recommend this bike to just about anybody who is serious on getting a good bike that will last. If you are really serious, then i would make sure you have some extra money to put into upgrades for it, like shocks and a new seat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dana major
a Cross Country Rider
from scituate MA USA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
swampituckSTrockgarden
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
cohaset cyckel
Strengths:
solid fealing under all conditons fairly plush floats well through rocks
Weaknesses:
i broke every component in 6 months swaped out to xt and xtr stratos xc bontreager bars risers seatpost.in the end i broke the rear triangel in half workin the rocks
Similar Products Used:
trek y33 trekwarented my frame and oferd me this upgrade for 700 this is it
Bike Setup:
swaped all my stuff on the 33 plus a mars super
Bottom Line:
the 33 is a far superior ride if you can get one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
FTN HEADER
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodbridge, va Date Reviewed: May 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Fountain head
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
metropolis
Strengths:
Strong Frame
Weaknesses:
every component that TREK put on it.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Jekyll (no comparison)
Bike Setup:
XTR all the way around, fox float rc, rock shox duke, monkey lite bars, sun rims.
Bottom Line:
The stock components belong on a bike from Toys-are-Us, not on a Trek. I changed, the crank set, pedals, fork, rear shock, brakes, shifter/brake levers, cables, tires wheels (hubs spokes rims), handle bars, seat, seat post, cassette, chain, stem, and the grips.
The stock components are not meant to withstand the punishment that a true MTN BKR dishes out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Weekend Warrior
from Wetaskiwin Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: September 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Strengths:
good frame,
Weaknesses:
shock!!! pedals and bars were the only problem
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock except 1664 pedals (the best pedals ive ever had) amobea downhill bars and rock shox psyloxc
Bottom Line:
This is agreat bike if you are willing to put money into improving some of the components.
the only real problems i had were falty tubes and the pedals but they were replaced instantly
the rock shox pyslo is Nuts i go of 5-8 footdrops and they just don't bottom out. The one time the did i nose dived of a ten foot gap i had built.
Buy this bike if you don't care about wieght the xc people who had test this bike had to be nuts it is definentily not lite and the bobbing makes it very non xc able
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Jersey City, NJ Date Reviewed: July 24, 2001
Bought it used for a decent price last year, but cashed in on the upgrades. I ordered about another $400 in parts from a very popular mail order place (not to be named here). To make a long story short, they screwed up the order (like they so reliably do) but this time in my favor. I got the whole shipment/upgrade for free.
I've been riding the bike for two seasons now and its been awesome. I tossed the stock parts immediately. With the changes, I've had no complaints yet except for the XT cassette that is as durable as a turd. Next year I want to upgrade the shocks... maybe I can cut another deal. :)
I'm sure there are better, more energy efficient fs frames out there. But I find as long as I keep my butt on the seat, there really is no bobbing or energy loss.
I recommend the bike to those who are looking to get into the fs scene. It's not worth the msrp, but used it can be a good deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Stone
a Weekend Warrior
from Clifton Park, NY Date Reviewed: April 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Skidmore
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
The Downtube in Albany, NY
Strengths:
Great entry level bike, the suspension helps absorb alot of the bumps, strong frame, comes with decent rims and tires(Bontrager), and the price
Weaknesses:
The bike is a bit on the heavy side, if you weight over 200lbs the stock rear shock won't hold you, cheap components all around, & awkward to carry.
Similar Products Used:
None. This is my first full suspension bike.
Bike Setup:
Bontrager upgrades(neck, bars, bar ends, crank, seat, and seat post). Upgrading to XT components.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for beginners. I had to order a stiffer coil for the rear shock because I weigh 215lbs. The Jett shocks in the front work for me, but you can't upgrade there springs. It comes with alot of cheap components, as all entry level bikes do. I have upgraded to alot of Bontrager parts and XT components and I love my bike so much more. I have eliminated so much of the extra weight that the cheaper components provide. The bike was a gift and $300 in upgrades are worth it to me. If you are looking for a full suspension bike that comes stock with higher end components, I would recommend a Trek Cross Country bike with an air shock or something like the GT I-drive. That would be my next choice. The pivot points have changed alot over the past two years, which accommodate heavier riders. When I first got the Y3, I would loose alot of energy going up hill because my weight would cause the bike to bounce. By replacing the rear coil($20 from Fox), the bike does not bounce much any more. If you can find a used one in good condition, I strongly recommend picking it up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darryl
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada Date Reviewed: December 28, 2000
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
tommy whites
Strengths:
Looks great,life time frame,great starter bike for some one under 200lbs
Weaknesses:
Lighter,better conponents needed,frame to be stronger
Similar Products Used:
y5 before this one
Bike Setup:
Over the last year I have added hayes disc 6" all race face conponents,xtr deraillers,5" inch drop off shocks ,stratros rear shock,cartridge hubs,head set,bottom bracket and rhino rims.
Bottom Line:
As you can see that I have taken a great liking to this bike in the looks ,ride,warranty the only down fall is the frame .I'm on my second frame but have no head ache with replacing the frame.All problems have been weld related.I'm 195lbs but I wasn't as heavy when I first bought the bike up grading was a must do to the size of rider I'm now. I went to more suspusion to help with the stress of the lack of front suspension / weight ratio ,the rear spring shock works well but is to heavy no bottoming out problems .The front 2.5 inches to 5" makes a great deal when riding hard ,jumps,big bumps,etc.The bike weighed 27.5 lbs when bought the bike I had the weight droped with all the race face and stratos rear shock have and front judy xc to 25.5lbs but know with all the latest upgrades for more down hills ,jumps,harder riding etc this bike is even more fun to ride (SEE BIKE DETAILS THE BIKE WEIGHS IN AT 30LBS)Ouch yes, but my weight and riding style I'm still smoking the best riders.This bike rocks and I would recommend it to any one who doesn't have the money at first to buy in at the higher cost level.Upgrades make the bike awesomes but not needed if your a lighter rider, stock or juiced up you'll have a blast.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roger
a Weekend Warrior
from Surrey British Columbia Date Reviewed: October 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
cork screw
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
used
Strengths:
Great price / good when you buy a used framset only used but like new.
Weaknesses:
If you did get it new the fork was very poor.
Similar Products Used:
Intense Ozzie
Bike Setup:
Free ride stuff / rock shox judy xlc 120mm / wide riser with stubby tall stem / basic deore brakes and cranks and rino rims and kujo irc tires / heavy and strong
Bottom Line:
For the money Ive had fun with this bike / I mostly ride a hard tail but wanted a toy to have fun downhilling with . Its a strange frame to build up for Downhill riding but it never cost me and what a blast it is to ride . Heavy and strong but going up is a real hard. I will still ride my Kona on the trail but if I want to hammer at 3 times the speed going down over roots and 4x4 water bars I will take it out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Swenson
a Cross Country Rider
from Marcellus, NY, USA Date Reviewed: August 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Split Rock Quarry
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Gus' International Bike Shop
Strengths:
Good price for a full suspension bike and looks awesome. The components are pretty good for the price and a nice handlebar.
Weaknesses:
NO REPLACEABLE DEREAILUER HANGER!!!!!!!!!! I bent it twice, and had it bent back, so it isn't as strong anymore. Bought a new bike because it was bent back poorly. Crappy front suspension (needs to be upgraded), somewhat weighty, and the paint chips easy. No name brakes but they work.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper A1 FSR, Kona Manomano, GT LTS
Bike Setup:
Manitou SX-LE, new seat, Shimano M-545 clipless pedals
Bottom Line:
This is an okay bike for the price. It wont eat up your wallet, but it won't eat up the slopes either. The front fork is the worst I ever rode. It sucked A**!!!!!!! I had fun for a while after I upgraded the fork and added clipless pedals. It was tough and it held up except for the derailuer hanger. After being bent twice I had wished I had gotten a bike with a replaceable derailuer hanger. Did I mention when it bent i didn't even crash and that my rear wheel fell off. I wasn't too happy. The components worked well, I didn't have much trouble with them until the hanger got bent. The rear suspension squeaked and creaked, but it worked to my satisfaction. However, sometimes it felt like it didn't eat bumps as well as I had hoped. A person looking to buy a bottom of the line full-suspension bike for not too much money, this could be it. This is a satisfactory bike for the amount of cash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Regina, SK Canada Date Reviewed: August 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
White Butte
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Looks good - attracts attention. Easy to carry. Just a fun bike to ride.
Weaknesses:
Attracts attention. Front fork (Jett C) doesn't work well - esp. for heavier folk (85kilos) like me. Rear shock is good - but I need to get a higher rate spring to make up for the preload I have dialed in to keep the rear tight.
Similar Products Used:
Demoed a bit of everything
Bike Setup:
99 Y3 - factory setup
Bottom Line:
I'm starting with some 2000 Judy XC or perhaps Race to see if the front end will perk up a bit... After that, maybe some Rolf wheels. It's a tough call - an extra $400 would have got me into a VRX200 with most of the components I am now wanting to upgrade to...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Devin
a Downhiller
from Taylorsville, UT, US Date Reviewed: August 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Devo
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
design for rocky terrain, plush back shock
Weaknesses:
Fork!!!!
Back shock works well but more travle would be nice
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback
Bike Setup:
XTR, Marzocchi Jr. T
Bottom Line:
I am really hard on this bike and it has held together, except the fork. I replaced that in a hury, Rock Shox suck!!! They used to be good then they got into all this light crap and stoped making them strong go for Marzocchi. Any way this bike is a great design and is awsome for a beginer. It is cheap and high quality. I am replacing my back shock with a Fox Vannila R asap, although the Fox Vannila is great I just want more travle. I give this bike 4 flaming Chils for it's high quality -1 because of the fork. You get what you paid for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dan
a Weekend Warrior
from wi Date Reviewed: July 23, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
looks, true y, not a 2000 (black & gray), and easliy upgraded
Weaknesses:
front shock,components
Bike Setup:
stock, except for new rolf propels
Bottom Line:
the bike is good for price. i like it way better with rolf's and soon with full xt. test the 7000 xc first for about $300 more u get a good shock ok components and a good looking bike in my opinion. i only had 1 thing go wrong and that is that i hit a rock and bent the unilink and broke my derailer it sucked but it only costed me 55 dollars to have it fixed.
and can someone explain where u get the money to upgrade and test so many products, if u can e-mail me
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Fuller
a Weekend Warrior
from Richmond, VA Date Reviewed: May 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Poor Farm Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great all-around bike for the money. Needs a few upgrades but the stock setup gets the job done.
Weaknesses:
Crappy front suspension and no name brakes are wack.
Bike Setup:
Stock. Upgrading pedals soon......if I ever get my next paycheck!
Bottom Line:
I agree with everyone else. This is a great bike for the duckets. Always room to upgrade but spend to much and you may be better off with a different bike. This bike is PIMPIN...no doubt about it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray Acosta
a Downhiller
from SF, CA. USA Date Reviewed: March 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
MT. Diablo
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame Is light, rear Derailer works real good and rear shocks
Weaknesses:
No name Brakes But works
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR. Diamond back, KHS
Bike Setup:
STock
Bottom Line:
This bike is a Great Bike! for the money I paid for $700. was well worth it. Downhill, uphill, on road, and off road, the bike handled real good. this bike can be upgraded for the better! I say trek good job and design. I give it a 5 plus. great entry level bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Cetel
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodbridge, VA, USA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
FountainHead
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The frame is good, good bike for good price.
Weaknesses:
Low end forks/components. (like everyone says.)
Similar Products Used:
GT XCR 1000 Trek VRX
Bike Setup:
Stock, plus upgraded to '98 Judy XL Triple Clamp forks, and clipless pedals.
Bottom Line:
The bike is a good bike for the amount that you have to spend on it. It also rides nice for a low quality bike. I bought the bike as a first bike to get me started into mountain biking, and since it was a great price for a dual suspension bike I purchased it. I was suprised at first at how well the bike rode even with the low-end components. I havent had any problem with any of the deraillers. The brakes also havent given me any trouble and they work great, even though they are no-name brand. The frame also just looks great!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Davis
a Weekend Warrior
from Lilburn, GA USA Date Reviewed: January 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Chicopee Woods, Gainesville, GA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great entry level full suspension bike;
Weaknesses:
Front derailler requires frequent fine tuning;
Bike Setup:
Seat adjustments could be easier; upgraded to clipless pedals which improved performance (true for any bike though)
Bottom Line:
Perfect for the average Joe/Josephine who simply wants a solid product without forking over $1K; all-in-all an excellant value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Pocock
a Cross Country Rider
from U.K Date Reviewed: January 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good rear sus.
Weaknesses:
front forks could do with upgrading. The wheels are rubbish
Bike Setup:
changed all to XT. changed pedals. seat & post. XT hubs on Mavic 517 rims
Bottom Line:
The only thing now I need to change is the front end but with the xt gear on I have found no probs at all. The wheels made a difference as well I put on 36h as well which made a great difference.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nicholas Olsson
a Please Select
from Stockholm, Sweden Date Reviewed: January 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Down town
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good looks, exellent frame, big upgrading capability, very good rear suspention, nice price!
If you want a bike that looks good, but you don't want to pay alot - this is the one! I like it because it is a great combination of Cross country/Freeride/(Downhill). But, to make it 100% you need to change the front suspention and other components like: gears, brakes, seatpost, and handlebar and stem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from NYC Date Reviewed: January 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Weight strength and true Y frame ... not to mention price
Weaknesses:
Components
Similar Products Used:
Vrx200, C'dale super v
Bike Setup:
OKay Okay ... I spent alot on parts ... '99 y frame ... Manitou Sx-r, Spins, Shimano Mix drivetrain... Upgrading to lx front xtr rear... going to see how rollamajig owkrs with my lx rear ... Alot of small to large upgrades...ect
Bottom Line:
Great bike... Got mine on closeout sale ... 725 with spins... so i can't complain ... I was disappoiunted in the parts ... Not that great... but for the money i paid... it was cheap ... I would recomend to anyone who wants a bike to upgrade that wants to look cool at the same time... and for all you posers who only ride on the road... get a freaking road bike ... you pretty little buggers ... and for those who want to look good and have a bike that can take a beating too ... get this one.but be prepared to upgrade front shock and drivetrain ... have fun... and for those looking for hardtails... i would reccomend a c'dale F400 ... best bet
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Johnson
a Downhiller
from British Columbia Date Reviewed: November 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
tough frame decent xc forks easy to work on looks great with a fender
Weaknesses:
terrible terrible!!!! paint job by trek does not stick to frame well and if you put a sticker on dont take it off becauase its not the only thing that will come off
Similar Products Used:
Gt i drive gt sts
Bike Setup:
trek y3 zzyzx original dh boulton fabrications swing arm to get 6 3/4 inches travel stratos helix pro
Bottom Line:
this is not a bad xc bike but not to many people figured it would be a good dh bike but it is with 6 up front and nearly 7 in the back this bike feels awsome only problem is the T.H.E. fender i bought will not work on the zzyzx so i had to sell it and it worked so well buy this bike and make it into a dh machine if this bike had a good paint job i would give it 5 hot tamales
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glyde-One
a Weekend Warrior
from Sucka Free ... san fran. Date Reviewed: October 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
montaro moutain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The price was nice for a dual suspension...
Weaknesses:
No name brakes...Could of used a better fork...
Similar Products Used:
GT
Bottom Line:
The ride is good and so was the price I paid so, no complaints. But, basically now it's just my project y-3... did a lot of modifications to it such as...when to a marzocchi atom bomb 2000 80mm z-2 fork, monkey lite carbon handle bar, SPIN WHEELS, Sram 9.0 brake levers, XTR brakes, easton CT2 Seatpost, sella italia flite ti gel saddle, panaracer fire xc tires, cogset is now an XTR...and still upgrading piece by piece....thats the fun part. All in all great bike for the price and for an entry level dual suspension bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
P
a Racer
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: October 2, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Chen
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, Illinois Date Reviewed: September 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
RAGBRAI
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great look. Takes a lot off road, and feel great. On road, however, there is a big difference in performance. Did great for cross-country.
Weaknesses:
too heavy for cross-county (of course), rear shock is noisy at times, grips wear down quickly...
Similar Products Used:
too many others...
Bike Setup:
Continnental Grand Prix @ 120 psi, Serfas seat...
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike right before I went on RAGBRAI, a 535 mile trip across Iowa, so I had to make the bike a lot more comfortable for the long distance riding... in the end, I would have to say that I am glad I bought this bike. it withstood one week of constant uphill and downhill in 120+ heat index with no problems. Great bike!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew H.
a Weekend Warrior
from NYC Date Reviewed: September 9, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
weight is great ... the feel aand handling of the frane is good ... also looks great. also rear derailer and tires.
Weaknesses:
components are not as good ... great bike to upgrade for those serious bikers.
Similar Products Used:
vrx200 ... cannondale superV2000
Bike Setup:
at the moment... upgraded to xtr950 v brakes ans levers($140) manitou sx-r shock ($200).. spin composite wheels ($400) ... looking to upgrade cranks and stem soon ... to xt and kore 3d
Bottom Line:
the bottom line is... great bike for money .. i paid $750 for mine with spins... so I'm a happy camper ...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fred
a Cross-Country Rider
from jacksonville Date Reviewed: September 4, 1999
Favorite Trail:
your mama
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
xt components kick ass. looks pimpy.
Weaknesses:
front shox suck dick.
Similar Products Used:
all the trek bikes
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
buy this bike if you like to ride but are not a serious rider. If this describes you then this bike is f--cking awesome.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
shane
a Cross-Country Rider
from Indianapolis, IN Date Reviewed: August 31, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
low price for full suspension.
Weaknesses:
heavy, poor front suspensin
Bike Setup:
stock + Z3 light fork
Bottom Line:
If you read enough of the reviews on this page youll find typically 2 types of reviews. The ones who are reasonable. And those who reviewed it as though it was supposed to be on par with top of the line full suspension bikes . True, its heavy, and has a poor front shock. BUT, for an entry level rider it is deffinately worth considering. At $800 it is obviously not gonna ride like an FSR, however it will get you by, and when time comes that components no longer match the performance required of them, upgrades are a simple change for things like the fork and pedals. So if you want perfect suspension and feather weights, look some where else, but if you are in the target market for this bike (entry level full susp. rider) there is nothin wrong with this bike, and dont let the reviews of some idiot who thought he was riding a 3,000 dollar rig scare you off.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Baloneyroll
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: August 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any-n-all
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
Light, stiff, soaks up the bumps
Weaknesses:
mild biopacing
Similar Products Used:
too many to list
Bike Setup:
Y-22
Bottom Line:
Jubbi's a dumba$$. Try owning the bike and riding it under all conditions for several years, dip$hit. Design has flaws, bu tthey all do. Works great as an all-around bike. Biopacing is minimal if you know what you're doing. Look at the avg rating - do you really think there'd be so many good reviews if the bike was that bad? Give the bike a serious demo and if you don't like it, don't buy it. 5 piles.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jubbi
a Cross-Country Rider
from usa Date Reviewed: August 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all tech trails are my favorite
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Not much
Weaknesses:
Design, components
Similar Products Used:
Many full susp (k2, trek, specialized, schwinn, klein, cannondale, santa cruz--they're all mostly crap, except K2/Proflex--get the original, it's still the best)
Bottom Line:
The floating drive train on this bike amounts to making it a high price seat post suspension system. The bottom bracket and pedals attach to the swing arm, and the distance between your feet and butt change as you ride. I can get a good susp seat post for $150, why bother with this horrible design? I think the only advantages might be when you climb out of the saddle to go up very steep hills. But you shouldn't have to do that much if you are a good rider and know how to slide on the seat to keep pressure on the rear.Don't be conned folks. One chili for looks (Maybe two for cheapness, but I can't raise the rating any, it's overblown already.) If you REALLY want a trek, get the VRX framest.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alon Shafransky
a Weekend Warrior
from tel-aviv , Isreal Date Reviewed: August 9, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
one hell of downhiller bikes ! no bikes at this price could give such riding in downhills.
Weaknesses:
too slow in climbing
Similar Products Used:
giant atx-970 whileer 4000
Bike Setup:
jones tiers. speciailzed body geometry chair.
Bottom Line:
really great in downhills , fun to ride even on roads, great entry level.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tamara wrigley
a Cross-Country Rider
from calgary, alberta Date Reviewed: July 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
i don't have the stock y3 - i got mine to replace a st 120 frame that cracked. with the exception of the rear shock, i've customized my components. i have a rst hi 5 fork, sun rhyno lite rims, xt hubs, radical downhill stem and bar, etc, etc. i have had no complaints with the performance of the frame so far (i average 150+ miles a week) the only downside i've been able to come up with is that the rear shock doesn't have as much travel as i'd like, and i'm not real fond of the appearance, it's a little flashy for me. i preferred the more aggressive look of the st 120. all in all, i like it though.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kelly
a Weekend Warrior
from Denton, Tx Date Reviewed: June 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Johnson Branch Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Excellent entry-level dual.
Weaknesses:
99 downgrade of components
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn s-30 carbon
Bike Setup:
98 y-3 upgraded to 747 clipless and Judy XC front shock
Bottom Line:
After riding this bike for two years, I just couldn't let some of the mindless dribble about this bike get by... This is a nice bike and a good design. I'm dissapointed in the component downgrade from the 98 to 99 model, but it's the same frame and u-link. I've never experienced the bobing I keep hearing about. I've felt nothing but in control while riding this bike and I've ridden it in extremely tough conditions;from the local trail to the downhill run at Crested Butte, Co. Maybe I've got the rear shock at the sweet spot, maybe the ones whinning are just too fat, I don't know...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jett
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: May 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
San Juan Trial
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Simple Design, Good customer service.
Weaknesses:
The down grading of the components since the 98 Y-3's. Ocassional Lock-up on out of set climbs. Really low quality front fork and drive components.
Stock set-up w/ R/S Jett C front fork and Fox Vanilla X rear shock. Frame size was a a small.
Bottom Line:
TREK took a step backward in selling a good, well equipped sport entry level full suspension bike. The 98 Y-3 had a good mix of components XT rear derailer, stx rapidfire shifters, Suguio Cranks etc. The 99 Y-3 Acera cranks, no name v-brakes, etc. need I say more. This is a good bike for a entry level suspension bike and this frame is a good base for anyone wanting to upgrade in the future. I guess TREK did not put too much emphasis on performance in the only alloy Y-frame sold this year. For a few bucks more the VRX 200 would be a better choice in value and performance, thats my opinion of course! But I still love my Y-bike's, just not the 99 Y-3. I give TREK's Y-3 3 flaming dead horses for just keeping the Y alive and somewhat affordable.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed Carter
a Weekend Warrior
from Bucks., UK Date Reviewed: May 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere in Aylesbury vale
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
LX rear derailleur, The Bontrager wheels and tyres. Rear sus upgradable (buy longer spring!). Cheap.
Weaknesses:
Heavy, cheap front suspension.
Similar Products Used:
Carrera Hellcat, Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Use a thinner saddle, shortened handle bars, added clips.
Bottom Line:
This is a low-priced full sus. But you can get a well specced light hardtail for the price and you should really spend more on a full sus bike. But the Y3 *is* value for money. The components work fine (except front shock) and can be replaced when they wear out with the latest kit. 4 stars at the price.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew Robertson
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: May 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods (Bow Ridge)
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
Lifetime Warranty... Because I've destroyed 2 frames.
Weaknesses:
The Frame... It weighs a ton and I've I've destroyed 2 so far. The suspension only works when climbing and locks out on descents. This frame sucks.
Similar Products Used:
I've ridden everything.
Bike Setup:
Aluminum Y with XTR and Cross-Max
Bottom Line:
I'm ashamed to still own this bike!!! This bike will take a great rider and make him look like a poser idiot! I'm saving up for an Intense SL...now that's a ride!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Cossey
a Cross-Country Rider
from Stratford, Ontario Date Reviewed: April 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
none visable
Weaknesses:
everything
Similar Products Used:
S-10 all mountain
Bike Setup:
jett c
Bottom Line:
this hole thing saddens me that someone would waste $1600 can. on this Piece of garbage. The parts blow, and it feels like a tank. I refuse to ride it ever again!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
green machine
a Cross-Country Rider
from stratford,ont Date Reviewed: April 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
strong frame
Weaknesses:
crap parts (except r der. LX)
Similar Products Used:
schwinn s-10 all-mtn.
Bike Setup:
'99 model jett c's (restyled Indy C's)
Bottom Line:
This bike is equivalent to a Huffy or CCM POS(piece of shit). Call me a snob but I like a solid mix of LX/XT parts. like on my bike
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Bergin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bemidji, MN Date Reviewed: April 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
my property
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
this was a great bike for money, I was able to buy a carryover 97 model for only $600. No componet failure, yes the rear shock sounds squishy. Great control for a rear suspension, works great on-road with slicks.
Weaknesses:
The paint tended to chip easily, not real easy to find touch-up paint. Problems adjusting the rear-derailer, tended to float between gears.
Bottom Line:
If you want to get into a full suspension bike at an afforabable price, this is it. Not so specialized that the average shop cannot help you maintain it, solid and reliable.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SPEDBOY
a Cross-Country Rider
from LONGMEADOW Date Reviewed: April 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
GROTON
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
GOOD STRONG FRAME
Weaknesses:
TO HEAVY
Bike Setup:
STOCK,CHANGED PEDALS
Bottom Line:
I HAVE A 98' TREK AND IT IS THE SAME EXCEPT SHOCKS. IT IS A OVERALL GOOD BIKE AND I LIKED IT SO YOU SHOULD BUT ONE AND I GIVE IT 4 OF THOSE STARS OR WHATEVER THEY ARES
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Johnson
a Downhiller
from Vancouver Canada Date Reviewed: March 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Grouse Mt. vancouver
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
This is a great bike i bought it for $525 canadian used and it is working great.
Weaknesses:
The only problem i see is the rear shock sounds like it has water in it or something.
Similar Products Used:
The Rocky mountain dh to is a sweet bike i had the privalege to ride it.
Bike Setup:
i had a proflex and i hate them never buy one.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike buy it if you dont have much money but replace the front fork like i did with a rst hi 5.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
colby
a Cross-Country Rider
from georgia Date Reviewed: March 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
turkey creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
It is a nice bike for the money. but, the front shocks are not good enough for me so im going to get the judy SL. overall, it is a pretty nice bike for crosscountry riding.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Maisch
a cross-country rider
from CT. Date Reviewed: February 15, 1999
Bottom Line:
I own a 98 which is almost the same as the 99 exept for the fork. I have had no problems at all with my Y3. I changed my fork from the Indy C to a Judy XC. I Have also added some shimano clipless pedals. Over all this has been a great bike for the buck.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Barry Thorn
a racer
from Bishops Stortford: England Date Reviewed: January 15, 1999
Bottom Line:
I used my trek for about a year for xc racing and it served me Fu**in' good, I kicked butt and it helped me to get my sponsorship from PLANET BIKES at Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire ENG. and from PRINCIPIA U.K. and now have a Principia Mac B-SL and have modded the Trek and now use it as a playbike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Barry Thorn
a racer
from Bishops Stortford: England Date Reviewed: January 15, 1999
Bottom Line:
I used my trek for about a year for xc racing and it served me Fu**in' good, I kicked butt and it helped me to get my sponsorship from PLANET BIKES at Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire ENG. and from PRINCIPIA U.K. and now have a Principia Mac B-SL and have modded the Trek and now use it as a playbike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Gillis
a weekend warrior
from Breesport, NY Date Reviewed: January 12, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have a '98, which is pretty close to the '99. Exchanged the toe clips for some Wellgo clipless pedals and added an Avid Rollamajig. A nice bike for the bucks, although the Sugino crank (not offered with the '99) is junk. Good climber. Comfortable on long rides. Over time, I'll end up replacing the OEM wheels and definitely the crank. Otherwise, I'm real happy. You could spend twice the price but end up with only 1 1/2 times the bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary
a weekend warrior
from USA Date Reviewed: December 17, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have a 98, but the bike hasn't changed one bit for 99, except for the Jett shock. This bike climbs exceptionally well for full suspension and is a good bike for the price. If I've had any problems with mine, they were from wrecks. All the components have yet to fail of their own accord. For $900, this is an exceptional entry-level bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian
a cross-country rider
from NH< USA Date Reviewed: November 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
Great cross country bike for 150lb rider, stock front shock stinks blew it out in under 45 miles of technical cross country. replaced it with a Z-1, much better. The Y-3 is great on climbing for a full suspension, URT makes a big difference. Have been able to stay competative in cross country racing, even with the extra weight of the Z-1. Now have 450 miles from 98 season, except for the stock shock there haven't been any problems with the bike.
Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$ 849.99
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
