Submitted by
Trek7000rider
a Weekend Warrior
from NoVA Date Reviewed: September 9, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
craigslist
Strengths:
Frame. It is fairly light, strong, good geometry, etc. The bike is 10 years old and the frame is still going strong.
Weaknesses:
stock components
Similar Products Used:
I've ridden other mountain bikes, but this is the first one that I have gotten some extensive riding done on
Bike Setup:
Matte black powdercoat on the frame, Vuelta Team SL wheels, XT drivetrain, SLX cranks, eggbeaters, Magura Quake C fork, etc.
Bottom Line:
I got mine for $300 about a year ago, and have done a lot of mods since, most notably converting the bike to 9 speed, swapping the wheelset, and putting on new cranks. This bike is perfect for me, its about #25, which isnt heavy, but it isnt light by todays standards. the frame is what I am really writing the review for, and it is great. Stiff enough, nice and strong, and pretty nimble. It has handled my abuse, and has shown no signs of not being capable for whatever task I decide to put it up to. Its just a solid, dependable, hardtail. No problems whatsoever. 5 for value, because you can get a complete one for 2-400 depending on how its spec'ed out, and 4 overall because I'm sure that technology has gotten better in the past ten years, even though I dont know what would need changed on the frame...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arno
a Cross Country Rider
from Germany Date Reviewed: May 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Straightforward bike for the average rider. Very sturdy.
Weaknesses:
Crankset sqeaky cracky (tighten really hard, and get another cartridge). Hard to get tires off factory rims. Somewhat heavy. Bent the cheap front blades twice (upgrade to Shimano XT!)
Bike Setup:
Upgraded '08: RS Recon Air poploc, new wheelset, Magura Louise disc brakes, new Ritchey seatpost
Bottom Line:
Sturdy bike that lasts forever. Had numerous crashes, hardly any problems with the bike (my ribs had some). Rides well and is very agile around corners. With my new fork, it feels as good as new and up to date again. A2Z makes an adapter to fit IS2000 disk brakes. Magura Louise and Marta fit with those (Avid won't). Has been worth every penny for the 8 years I've been using it. Currently my spare bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Serge LeBlanc
a Weekend Warrior
from Moncton , New Brunswick , Canada Date Reviewed: July 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Hillsbrough
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Radical Edge Moncton
Strengths:
Frame is very sturdy and had a very comfortable ride. Great handling through tight single track and difficult trails. I have had it for a while now and still love it.
Weaknesses:
Rims and drive train need work. Although it is equiped with LX and XT derailers, the crank and the rear hub have given me small problems. I broke the rear hub just by pedaling. the crank has always had sqeeks and cracksdue to stress when I apply alot of pressure to it. I also found it heavy compared to others in its same category.
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000 (1999 model) micheline tires, Sun Ryno light rims
Bottom Line:
The bike is a greeat ride. The bike is basically a race machine in a box for the novice racer. the price was exellent and the ride is comfortable. Trek was on the right track with this bike, unfortuneatley it was discontinued after 2000.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shank
a Weekend Warrior
from Florida Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hard Times in Ashville N.C.
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Lasted 5 years with minimal parts wearing out and still looks good. Keeps going strong after all this time.
Weaknesses:
Small creak that comes from the seattube, put some locktight on my seatpost and that cleared it up.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 950 from the old days when steel was the best thing going.
Bike Setup:
Stock except upgraded the pedals to 747s and then eggbeaters.
Bottom Line:
This bike was worth every penny I spent and then some. It has held up very well with the only part changes coming from my wants rather than needs. Trek really hit the nail on the head with a affordable, rock solid bike that was light enough to please most of us. I never expected to be riding the bike this long and have just now started to look for a new bike. I plan to keep this one as a spare/loaner and I know that it will around for a long time. They do not make the 7000 any longer but I would be willing to bet that the newer frames they are putting out are just as bomb proof.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Gorman
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotland Date Reviewed: September 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the next one
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Trossach cycles
Strengths:
looks-mine was the metalic blue with some yellow and with grey components. Xt rear has been good, frame is excellent. Judy XCs ok to start with. Wheels ok. Fast bike , good climber.
Weaknesses:
Judy Xcs wore out. Front LX mech neaded replaced early on and still have very occasional trouble with chaingetting trapped or to come off. Chain has also got sucked in and trapped at back occasionally. A big weakness was the dealer who made me pay for any parts or work when it was still under warranty.A wee bit scary on the down hills.No quick release seat clamp.
Similar Products Used:
Muddy fox with full xt and judys. Scott comp lx with Indys. Dawes.
Bike Setup:
Now have Duke xc forks ,which are a lot better. I've added some Club Roost risers. QR seat clamp. a few gizmos.
Bottom Line:
I,ve had it five years and have not had to spend much, with new forks being biggest outlay.They have made it far better as have the risers. I've done a lot of miles and a lot of very rough off road on the Scottish mountains Some trouble with front mech, some frame squeeks.I get up hill easier than many of my friends.God climber and fast XC. Despite all this I think I am going to buy a Trek Liquid 10 tommorrow.Feeling a bit sad at changing as this bike has been good to me, but I want to try more stuff in more comfort with more confidence at downhills and jums etc. I might even keep this bike , but if you want to buy it email me!This bike mainly suits a XC racer, ive done some epics on it. It has coped with all styles of riding .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen Stancill
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Rapids Date Reviewed: September 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Fort Custer
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Velocity Cycles
Strengths:
Race ready
Weaknesses:
Icon Seat post and bars
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Sub22, Gary Fisher funny name bike.
Bike Setup:
Upgraded the front deralure to XT.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike I plan on getting an Easton Carbon Fiber seatpost and eggbeater peddals, I have upgraded the front deralure to xt. I like the raceer feel of this bike. Knowing what I know now I would not have baught anything else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tulefog
a Cross Country Rider
from California Date Reviewed: March 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$850.00
Strengths:
Awesome all around bike - bombproof.
Weaknesses:
It's a hardtail.
Bottom Line:
This bike is incredible. I bought the bike stock with the goal of riding the sh*t out of it. I have upgraded parts as they wore out and now this bike is so sweet!!! Trek makes a great bike for the buck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scootems
a Weekend Warrior
from Midwest Date Reviewed: November 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame & components. Truly a classic and I got it for a steal as a used bike. Beautiful Dragonfly Green!
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 800. Cannondale M300. Tested a bunch of others new. Nothing comes close.
Bike Setup:
Added RockShox seatpost, Oasis anatomic saddle. Otherwise stock. Plan to upgrade the crankset when this one wears out.
Bottom Line:
Sweet ride. Nimble, light, fun. I took care of the notorious squeak in the frame by pouring a 1/3 can of "Liquid Wrench" down the seat tube. NO MORE SQUEAK. Do it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Worsham
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, Georgia Date Reviewed: November 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All Trails
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Individual
Strengths:
Lightweight frame, cost efficient, its a hardtail!!!!!!
Weaknesses:
Components----but you get what you pay for(a definate must upgrade), a little squirrely in descents, makes for an interesting ride!!!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Moab 1, Cannondale V-500, Trek 8000
Bike Setup:
Icon bars, AVID 1.0's, Icon cranks, XTR front and rear deraillers, Bontrager corvairs, Use suspension seatpost, Selle Italia flight gel saddle, Judy c forks and XT rear cassette.
Bottom Line:
Climbs very well, and by changing out a few components can be turned into a great XC racer. I have raced this bike and can vouch for it. Extremely well put together frame, cudos to Trek. I have beat this bike to death and it asks for more. I have been extremely pleased with my 7000 and will be saddened to see it go, but with the purchase of my new 9.8 elite, which I have yet to test, it must go. However it won't go far(selling it to a close friend). I would definatly recommend this bike to any serious MTBer. Thanks agian to MTBreview which helped me decide on a 9.8.......(review in the near future).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Smit
a Weekend Warrior
from Netherlands Date Reviewed: October 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Beelen
Strengths:
Frame is nice and light for a plain gauche frame. Geometry is allright once you've changed the stem.
Weaknesses:
The Judy is too softan d too heavy, I liked it at first, but in time my riding changed. The saddle is crap, the weelset is strong but a bit heavy. The Lx fd never worked properly. Brakes lack power, tires lack grip. No frame squeek here!
A very reliable bike, nothing broke down untill now, after 2 years of riding. I've got the right riding position after changing the stem, 14 degree rise is too much. Now it's 0 degree rise. Others seem to like riserbars for a more upright position. Hey, it's a personal thing. No squeeks in my frame, but the problem with the front derailleur was there. Never shifted properly and at the and it didn't shift at all. the XT solved the problem. I want to upgrade the weelset an fork (too heavy) and the brakes (don't bite). The bike is worth it, no doubt! Allright, the colour (swampgreen) took me a while to get used to, but now I like it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MIKE
a Weekend Warrior
from saskatoon,sask,canada Date Reviewed: September 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the stubby boner playground
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
out of the paper(from some old guy)
Strengths:
It's the tank of the x-country bikes. I've taken my 16" x-country frame off of any and all drops in the city of saskatoon. From loading docks in the urban sessions or the 5-7ft drops we made on the out of bounds trails, the bike has been there through it all. All of my friends laughed at me for buying this bike at the time but they understood my crazy ride anything mentality. the local bike shop cant fathom the fact that my bike isn't in three or more pieces right now. after the 9 set of stairs i did popped the cherry on my shox (so to speak) but now they have a kinda cool negative travel thing going on.
Weaknesses:
i switched the following broken things: -pedals -wheels for my now taccoed rhino lites -tires -handle bar for a 2" riser -oh ya and the brakes for hydrolic magura rim brakes
Similar Products Used:
kona stuff
Bike Setup:
dudes my bike sleeps around ( its got every thing in it)
Bottom Line:
im congradulating trek on the abnomal bike profomance coming out of this crazy 7000. i know what u peeps are thinken, i m one of those bullsh!t riders thats full of it and that i actually have never done any of these dropes or dirt jumps before. Well for those of u that think that u can go we are not allowed to sware yourselves, i had no money at the time and the 7000 was just going to be my bike for that year but it turned out to be an awsome ride. thx trek
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a Cross Country Rider
from Or Date Reviewed: September 11, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
Tommy's
Strengths:
VALUE, light, yellow, Bontrager stuff
Weaknesses:
chain suck
Similar Products Used:
big sur
Bike Setup:
Mars 1 fork, Arch Rivel, XT fd(best up grade)
Bottom Line:
awsome bike for $900, if you have a chance get one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
--Me Again--
a Downhiller
from Maine Date Reviewed: August 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
See complete review below
Weaknesses:
See complete review below
Similar Products Used:
See complete review below
Bike Setup:
See complete review below
Bottom Line:
Oh yeah--forgot to mention the brakes,levers,and shifters.Probably don't need to,because:
A.The Avid 1.0 SD's work great,despite all the reviews saying how sh$tty they are.After all,you don't need discs for XC,and I only weigh 172 pounds.These brakes will still put the bike into a easy nose-wheelie if you squeeze 'em hard enough.Over 2 years of riding,I've only needed to change pads twice.I have cartridge pads now.
B.The Avid Speed Dial levers are good too.Nothing to complain about here either.AND I LOVE THE LITTLE KNOBBY LEVERAGE DOO-HICKEY!
c.The shifters are LX,which is fine,but I'll probably upgrade to XT eventually because I already have an XT crank,deraillers,cassette,and chain.
That completes the review.My ratings still stand at 3 sh&ts for value,4 sh$ts overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reindeer Blower
a Downhiller
from Maine Date Reviewed: August 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Bike shop
Strengths:
See review
Weaknesses:
See review
Similar Products Used:
My '93 Specialized Stumpjumper,the only other XC/training bike I have owned.All of the other bikes I have owned are DH-specific--'96 Intense M1,'98 S.C Super-8,2001 Brooklyn TMX(Hell yeah!!)
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000,XT front/rear deraillers,XT crank,Kore seatpost,Z3 BAM 80 fork,Icon bar-ends,Michelin Comp-S tires front and rear,Ritchey Logic pedals,and Selle Italia Nitrox seat.Only the wheels,headset,bar and stem remain stock.
Bottom Line:
Not a bad overall bike--needed upgrades to really take advantage of the frame's kickass potential.The angles,the paint job(sperm-white!),the ride(stiff but not brutal)--hell,even the welds and finishing all look pretty good.Nothing cut here.The bike climbs,sprints and handles like a monkey on crack--even better than my old Stumpy,which I thought was the pinnacle of hardtail frames. Now to break down what the bike needed:
1.Fork-My bike didn't come with a Judy XC.I got a Manitou SX instead.I thought it sucked at first.It didn't feel "right" stock.It didn't respond very well to being slammed around and felt like the rebound damping was a little too light.It felt good on small hits,but GOD FORBID if you hit anything big with it.I'm not a tank-ass rider,only 5'8 and 172 lbs,but I do ride bikes like I mean it.The springs were just too soft.Even a two-foot drop resulted in the fork bottoming out. With heavy springs,the ride improved.I could now hammer on it with more confidence,but the flex was still there.You couldn't see it,but it was there.Also the fact that some of the settings couldn't be tweaked frickin' drove me nuts.I know how I want a fork to feel like,and the Manitou sure as hell didn't feel right--after all,I'm a privateer downhill racer,Sport-class,and I have a good deal of experience when it comes to setting suspension up. Last November,I bought a Z3 BAM on discount from Airbomb.$220 later--now HERE is the ride I was lookin' for!The Z3 is a much plusher,stiffer fork than the Manitou ever was.Yeah,the bike is a tiny bit heavier,but not by much,and the ride is all the better for it.Better still,close to 8 months have gone by and I haven't gotten the slightest bit of stiction. 2.Icon parts-Junk this sh#t when you get the bike and save yourself the hassle.The Icon pedals(Bontrager RE-1 pedals actually)are pure limburger.The damned things literally BROKE in a week.Yes,broke,WHILE I WAS RIDING.This is not good.I had to walk my bike for a mile back to the trailhead because of this.I replaced them with Ritcheys post-haste. The crank was crap too.It shifted so bad,constantly throwing the chain in muddy conditions.Fu$k this.I bought a new XT crank after a month,and all problems disappeared. Is the seatpost good?Nope,that's garbage too.Bent right over after 3 months while hammering up a hill.Ouch.On goes a Kore post. The stem and bar seem to be okay.No complaints there..yet.Throw on some 'ends and you're ready to go. 3.Wheels-Bontrager Superstock.Pretty good.No complaints really.They hold up fine,except for a truing every now and then. 4.Tires-Another in-house item.The Bonty Jones tires SUCK,and I mean REALLY SUCK.Fine in the dry,but skated all over the damn place whenever I rode in wet conditions--and believe me,the Northeast is rarely ever dry.Replaced them with Michelins after 3 months.Now the bike's handling is perfect. 5.Saddle-Yet another point of contention.It didn't agree with my ass at all--it felt too wide.Dumped it for a discounted Nitrox--nice and thin,perfect for long-distance XC. 6.Headset-Not too fancy,and that's perfectly OK.I haven't had any problems with it.So it's not a King--so what?! 7.Drivetrain-Fine,until the LX front wore out in April.No biggie--I wanted XT anyway.The XT rear is just fine.No problems with the XT chain either.
Verdict?Stock,the bike is probably ideal for a beginner to intermediate rider or even racer(what kind of newbie is going to dump 1k into a bike anyway?).However,ride on it a lot for months on end and you'll have to start replacing the sh$tty parts real fast.The frame underneath is great,but otherwise I wouldn't reccommend this bike to people,at least at the MSRP($1000).You need to throw oh,say about $800 or so into the bike to make it a two-wheeler for the long haul.3 torched piles of moose sh$t for value,4 overall(because the frame is so good it compensates for the mediocre spec--otherwise,it would've been lucky to get 2).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mahhim Muabababa
a Downhiller
from Whitemoore Lake, Iowa Date Reviewed: August 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The "Ball Buster"
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
A garage sale
Strengths:
I think it has sorta, okay colors. The grips aren't toooo bad. And the price was not bad. Also the grips were squishy.
Weaknesses:
I think everything on this bike sucks, and I am soprise that brakes don't come with it. I mean going downhill w/o brakes is really pretty scary, especially if its your first time. I also thought that the grips could be squeshier
Similar Products Used:
a RAZOR SKOOTER, and an old 1989 Klein Custom, I found at a dime store
Bike Setup:
1994 Judy XC
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE SUCKS. I would never again buy a Trek Bikee. After the th3rd ride the dam wheel went out on me and I broke my kidney. Ever since I can't feel my shined bone. The lust I have for chocolate pudding has never been the same.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mahhim Muabababa
a Downhiller
from Whitemoore Lake, Iowa Date Reviewed: August 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The "Ball Buster"
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
A garage sale
Strengths:
I think it has sorta, okay colors. The grips aren't toooo bad. And the price was not bad. Also the grips were squishy.
Weaknesses:
I think everything on this bike sucks, and I am soprise that brakes don't come with it. I mean going downhill w/o brakes is really pretty scary, especially if its your first time. I also thought that the grips could be squeshier
Similar Products Used:
a RAZOR SKOOTER, and an old 1989 Klein Custom, I found at a dime store
Bike Setup:
1994 Judy XC
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE SUCKS. I would never again buy a Trek Bikee. After the th3rd ride the dam wheel went out on me and I broke my kidney. Ever since I can't feel my shined bone. The lust I have for chocolate pudding has never been the same.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Gracheck
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor MI Date Reviewed: August 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Highland
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Chelsea Bike
Strengths:
Strong Frame, good component mix for the money, and climbs nicely
Weaknesses:
Icon parts
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome bike for the money! In the time i have ridden mine i have never had 1 problem with it. the chain has never even come off with me on it. In my opinion you could race with this bike it might be a little heavier and a little less high on the components range this bike performs. No doubt about it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Gracheck
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor MI Date Reviewed: August 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Highland
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Chelsea Bike
Strengths:
Strong Frame, good component mix for the money, and climbs nicely
Weaknesses:
Icon parts
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome bike for the money! In the time i have ridden mine i have never had 1 problem with it. the chain has never even come off with me on it. In my opinion you could race with this bike it might be a little heavier and a little less high on the components range this bike performs. No doubt about it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Gracheck
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor MI Date Reviewed: August 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Highland
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Chelsea Bike
Strengths:
Strong Frame, good component mix for the money, and climbs nicely
Weaknesses:
Icon parts
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is an awesome bike for the money! In the time i have ridden mine i have never had 1 problem with it. the chain has never even come off with me on it. In my opinion you could race with this bike it might be a little heavier and a little less high on the components range this bike performs. No doubt about it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim .
a Cross Country Rider
from Buffalo, NY Date Reviewed: July 26, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Ambridge Bike Shop
Strengths:
Strong frame, good wheelset (except the hubs), light
Weaknesses:
icon components, crankarm broke off, rear hub locked up even after regular matainence and overhauls
Similar Products Used:
schwinn moabs, trek 8000, and so on....
Bike Setup:
race face crank, salsa stem, bar, seat, seat post, oddessy pedals, bontrager corvair wheelset
Bottom Line:
this bike is a very good value considering it is a sub-1000$ bike. it has stood up to almost 3 years of hard xc riding and up to 8 foot drops.... this bikes is solid and is worth the money, but when you but it replace the icon stuff, you wont regret it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Connecticut Date Reviewed: May 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Trail Behind cohls park in Granby
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Berlin Bike Shop
Strengths:
Strong Frame, Rides Fast, Perfect size for me.
Weaknesses:
I have a problem with the icon components. I actually bent my seatpost almost broke it off. It also creeks and the seat is a little uncomfortable
bye bye icon. Ive got rid of all the icon stuff except for the crank arms. Im getting there. Full XT, Crossroc wheels, selle italia flight saddle, michelin comp s tires, soon to add new cranks.
Bottom Line:
The bike is awesome I havent regretted buying one bit. its held up through 2 years of hard trails and i know it will hold during this racing season. once the icon stuff is gone its an amazing bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean
a Cross Country Rider
from Burlington, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Kelso, Short Hills, Dundas Valley
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Bike Shop
Strengths:
A nice solid, light frame Good components Shimano LX and XT Nice travel in Judy shocks Just an all round solid bike
Weaknesses:
ICON pedal are a little weak, but no serious problems with them yet
Similar Products Used:
None, first mountain bike.
Bike Setup:
??? All this MTB lingo is new to me, so its set upright when I ride, most of the time. I haven't changed a thing since I bought it.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that its a sweet bike for the money. Last year was my first year riding and I wanted a good middle of the road bike. The shop I got it at gave me a good deal and so far I am extremely happy with the purchase. The only thing is I don't have much to compare it to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joshua
a Weekend Warrior
from fayetteville Date Reviewed: May 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
devils den
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
highroller
Strengths:
great frame, good wieght ,better value
Weaknesses:
chipping paint but then who reaaly cares about the paint
xtr rear derailer xt front specialized body goemetry saddle want some discs though
Bottom Line:
awesome bike for an awesome price would recomend to anybody that is just starting out or someone who is not all that serios best bike ive ever owned!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven
a
from Windsor, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
My street
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
a Cycle Shop...
Strengths:
Looks. This thing is beautiful. Light, great handles, and soft tires. Double wall rims.
Weaknesses:
Peddels are good only if you are into racing. For the weekend riding, without your boots, replace them with something normal.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing this good....ever.
Bottom Line:
I was out to spend maybe $ 500, but after riding several others, this was a no-brainer. I'm not a serious rider, and the biggest jump I've made since I was 12, (jumping over 16 garbage cans), was the curb. However, I knows what I likes, and I likes this bike. So much so, that I bought my wife a Ladies Trek 6000...which for the price rocks too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stan
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: April 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
trail of tears (not the one on lochnagar)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
bike retailer
Strengths:
This bike rocks. Great frame which is maybe not the lightest these days but is only .5 lbs heavier than the top-of-the line OCLV frame which probably has a bit of a cold anyway, or an allergy to daylight, or sensitive skin...Whooah. Stop. Great setup for the moolah
Weaknesses:
Creaky frame - it definitely comes from the seat/seatpost interface - 2000km of riding tell me so. Wheelset makes it on the heavy side but still well suited to 5hrs+ in the saddle.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
As purchased plus Time ATAC pedals, Avid AR50 & SD2.0 brakes, KORE stem, Avid Flak Jacket cables, Bontrager gel saddle
Bottom Line:
This bike cannot be bought new. It has passed into mountain bike legend and to own one is to be elect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a Weekend Warrior
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: March 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Local Ski hill
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Frame & Color (green) Drivetrain wheelset
Weaknesses:
saddle - bent rails stem - too long bars - not risers tires - just aren't up to par
Similar Products Used:
Trek VRX 200 Schwin Moab 3
Bike Setup:
Long Travel Kit for Fork FSA Orbit DL Headset Bontrager CrowBars 1.5 inch rise Profile Design 30mm Stem HTI Magnesium Pedals - Flatbed Ritchey Vector Seat KENDA Kharisma Crystal Tires T.H.E. front fender
Bottom Line:
Excellent Bike Holds up to 6' drop-offs onto cement I love this bike, it's pretty much pimped out right now Anyways just switch the seat and tires and you'll be runing with the best
This ride will turn heads and i never get anybody dissing it, otherwise i'll waste them on the local trails or trials riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luke Bertelsen
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: February 28, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
Local bike shop
Strengths:
Great value. Nice component setup for the money shelled out for my first bike. The Judy fork is tried and true in all trail conditions. Shimano drivetrain never misses a shift.
Weaknesses:
The Bontrager corvair wheelset is a little on the heavy side for my liking. The Avid single digit 10 break are a prime canidate for a first upgrade. All in all a great bike with few weaknesses for the price.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6500, 8000
Bike Setup:
I now ride a team Marin with full XTR and SID xc.
Bottom Line:
The 7000 was a great buy for a first bike if you are looking for a good value for the money spent. The frame is worthy of upgrades for sure and it will last the long haul. As you get more into the sport you will find that the time come when the only thing left to upgrade will be a new frame. It is time to move on then. My 7000 was great bike, and I would recommend buying it to anyone who can get ahold of one now that they quit making the 7000 model.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stuart Campbell
a Weekend Warrior
from Dunfermline, Scotland Date Reviewed: December 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
West Highland Way, Burma Road
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Alpine Bikes, Edinburgh
Strengths:
Frame, geometry, ultra-reliable drivetrain and shifters
Weaknesses:
Paintjob is rather delicate. Persistent creak from seatpost? stem? bottom bracket? ... don't know but I've grown to love it
Similar Products Used:
None similar but previous bike was 1994 Saracen Tufftrax
Bike Setup:
Stock : Bontrager wheelset, LX/XT groupset, Icon crank/chainset/seatpost/stem/bar, Judy XC forks(63mm) plus extras/replacements : Avid Arch Rival 50 + SD2.0 levers, Fatty Magee barends, Bontrager gel saddle and a couple of bits of Karrimat duct-taped to the frame to aid carrying!
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. Sometimes I just sit and look at it ... sometimes I get out and ride. The frame is great - stiff yet forgiving but always predictable. The wheelset is perhaps not the lightest (Corvair ASYM rims and Bontrager hubs w. Jones tyres) but they take a lot of abuse with only occasional minor truing required. Handling is a bit too lively and I may go for a longer, flatter stem. Judy XCs are fine for me (a lightweight). I've upgraded to Avid Arch Rival 50s w. Speed Dial 2.0 levers and the extra confidence in stopping power/feel is well worth it. Drive train is great and the marriage of XT rear mech. to LX shifters is a very happy one. Cranks and chainset (Icon) does for me - no appreciable flex. Icon SPDs a wee bit heavy and need regular lubes to stay crisp. Stock setup lacks bar-ends but I managed to bargain them into the dealer price (GBP 750). As for that creak - I thing I would miss it were it to go; it's the biking equivalent of a conscience.
Anyway - a superb bit of kit for the price, even if I now fancy a Trek Fuel 90 or a Marin Mount Vision, I can't help but feel they would offer diminishing returns. Trek 7000 is possibly a mountain bike classic and very, very good value. Shame they don't seem to make it anymore.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a
from CT Date Reviewed: November 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Psylo Vinyard Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$949.00
Purchased At:
Zanes Cycles
Strengths:
The icon crank, Rock Shox Judy XC, Icon Stem, Clipless icon pedals and Wilderness Trail Bike Tires
Weaknesses:
Boots on Shocks(rock shox judys)
Similar Products Used:
The Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo and GT Zascar
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000
Bottom Line:
Kicks!!!! Nice for hitting trails just got it and it runs so nice like a porshe BOXTER NNNNIIICCCCEEEE bike!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a Racer
from Texas Date Reviewed: November 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Paridice trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Privite Seller
Strengths:
The Rock Shox Judys XC are awsome they are so comfortable
Weaknesses:
The icon crank is a little to flimsy
Similar Products Used:
The Gt outpost
Bottom Line:
REally nice for on/off road riding even though it caane take extreme off road riding nice parts
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent
a Weekend Warrior
from Puyallup, Wa, USA Date Reviewed: October 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
victor falls
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$750.00
Strengths:
Great punch for the price. XT rear deraileur is smooth and the Judy XC is more than adequate.
Weaknesses:
Busted the seat in the first 3 months. Pedals are average at best. Icon crank is a little soft.
Similar Products Used:
Tested a Raleigh M600
Bike Setup:
Stock except for cheap bar ends and new seat.
Bottom Line:
If you're looking at something that can grow with you this is a sweet setup. I've gone from relative beginner to above-average rider in six months of beating the crap out of this bike and the only thing I've had to do is replace the seat and get new break pads (granted I only weigh 130lbs). I have pounded the crud out of my large chain ring and would suggest upgrading to something beefier when you have the means. The XT r/d has outlasted the xtr crap my brother had on his specialized M4 (he replaced it with XT) and I've taken some pretty good spills with nothing more than scratches to the paint job (shaved off unwanted weight). Nobody's gonna laugh at you for riding this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marten Mann
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: October 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hardwood Hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Ziggy's Cycle and Sport
Strengths:
The Frame is sweet. That extra gusset down on the chainstays, gives me the confidence to beat her on the trails or in the city. The drivetrain is sweet too. XT is a little beefier than XTR, but I like the strength and seems to be just as good as the XTR on my 98' 8300.
Weaknesses:
Icon stuff is alright, but a little to flexy. The Bontrager rims are descent if you like truing rims after hard rides.
Similar Products Used:
Speacilized Rockhopper, GT Zaskar, Fisher Big Sur - Alright contenders, but can't beat the $ of the trek.
Bike Setup:
Totally redone except for drivetrain. Manitou X-Vert, Mavic 521 with XT hubs, Michellin Hot S rubber, Race Face North Shore XS Cranks (rock!) and ring (Single Ring with Bashguard), Race Face Seatpost and Stem, Profile bars, Avid Arch rival 40's and 2.0 levers, Coda grips, Tioga Seat, Shimano DX pedals(with spuds)or Wellgo platforms(suck), depending on the riding and Roach padding (thank God).
Bottom Line:
My baby has done me well. When I bought it, I rode her ridgid around town, but couldn't help upgrading that sweet frame. It'll take anything I throw at it and smile. I've changed my riding over the years and it has gone from a mild mannered urban vehicle to a bad ass urban assault, free riding, dually, with the odd XC adventure thrown in. Amazingly after all the beefy upgrades, she still only weighs in at 28.5 lbs, how's that for versatile! I Love this bike and what I can do on it. I weigh 160lbs so we can do some funky stuff in town or out. The Manitou sucks up everything and the frame takes the rest in stride. Anyone looking for an inexpensive, but quality steed should quit looking and pick one up. But hurry up there not making them in 2001, so get a hold of this classic, you'll be glad. This ride is for anyone, beginners and experts alike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from York Date Reviewed: October 2, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Great weight, value components, cool colour
Weaknesses:
corvair rims that are eaten alive by Yorkshire mud, brakes not good enough
Similar Products Used:
trek 6500
Bike Setup:
mavic 517's, time atac, Judy upgraded to 80mm and new xxx seals, icon riser, avid arch 50s and 1.9 levers, NEW bonty AC tyres. USE XCR Susp. seatpost
Bottom Line:
This bike is great. Now that I've put new rims on it, the originals were scoured to nothing within a year, (disc brakes in the pipeline) It climbs like a demon and with 80mm up front drops off anything I dare. The drivetrain is nearly dead - cranks and rear mech, but 2 yrs of hard riding in all conditions is to be expected. I agree with others about the saddle, it will be replaced soon as I've bent the rails on this one, even with a sus seat post.
The creak from the frame that lots of people mention is due to an internal shim that brings the frame down to 27.2 that apparently comes unstuck. You LBS will be able to pour the correct adhesive (can't remember which) in the top and turn the frame upside down to get in the right place.
I have considered buying a new full susp bike, but have decided to keep this great machine and upgrade to make it even better, as for all day xc riding it cannot be beaten (but put a susp seat post in)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis and Kirksville, Missouri, USA Date Reviewed: September 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Chubb in st louis!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$935.00
Purchased At:
Touring Cyclist in St Louie
Strengths:
like everyone else has sed, excellent value. my XT rear derailler has been great, no adjustments in 2 years yet! seems to do everything just about perfectly for me. the shock has been very reliable and just about bomb proof. downhills predictably, climbs decently. disc brake compatible and replacable derailler hanger baby! not too stiff; perfect tuning in that respect.
Weaknesses:
the original grips sucked sh*t. i could pull them right off. not too confidence inspiring. I broke an Icon pedal in a routine over-the-bars excursion. the frame has also developed a ponderous crackling sound comng from the top tube, i wonder about it late at night. saddle is questionable.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Moab S from back in the day baby! also have ridden Schwinn Factory Full Suspensions, KHS Alite 4000
Bike Setup:
everythign stock except the tires (WTB velociraptor F, Panaracer Smoke R), new grips, pedals, thinking of replacing the avid 1.0s
Bottom Line:
after two years of consistent and well rounded poundings, lots of trials whenever i feel the urge to show off, lots of stairs on campus, and all types of riding, this bike is extremely solid. I LOVE the XTs in back, to my recollection, i haven't had to adjust them in almost two years. i don't much care for the flex-o-matic stem/handlebar setup. very reliable. the brakes are getting kinda mushy, i don't like the handlebar levers, they are too long. i think all my trials hopping loosened my rear hub, man! done a few races, and it was nice and consistent. no annoying quirks. I would recomment this to the serious recreational rider. extremly versatile. matt loves his bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jasper
a Cross Country Rider
from nijmegen Date Reviewed: September 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Beekbergen
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
looks, weight, price, wheels
Weaknesses:
saddle, paint-chips, no barends
Similar Products Used:
noname
Bike Setup:
Stock 7000 + XTR brakes, SI Transam saddle, barends
Bottom Line:
Well, I've got my 7000 for exactly 1 year now and I thought I'd share my opinion. In 1 year of a LOT of riding, this bike has served me extremely well. It got its normal maintainance and only the front wheel needed some trueing. The RS fork held up great, the tires are still quite good (the tires themselves are excellent!). I read another user has problems with frontwheel washout; I've got the same thing, but I think I've got to experiment with tire pressure and forkadjustment a bit more. This bike has proven te be extremely fast. The saddle was horror for me, couldn't get it right. But hey, saddles are a highly personal thing. And I replaced the brakes. I didn't really like the modulation of the stock brakes. All said, this is really an excellent buy. I think the 2000 model offers even more. A steal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rene Ledea
a Cross Country Rider
from Northford,Ct Date Reviewed: September 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
dont know yet
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Coral Way bike shop Miami, Fl
Strengths:
Frame design strength & color (dragonfly green)
Weaknesses:
creaking seatpost icon cranks
Similar Products Used:
none so far
Bike Setup:
rs SID XC,CHRIS KING hs, EASTON monkeylite hb/ct2 seatpost XT everything, Mavic 517s, Fire XC Pro tires, Flite saddle,&Yeti grips.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that this bike rocks.Its light,its fast, it looks good, and it doesnt burn your wallet the way you'll be burning people on your local singletrack.I made the mistake of selling my bike to someone but was able to buy it back (THANK GOD). Now my frame is being warranteed by the good (but slow) people at TREK.(Yup, I bent it) If your'e looking for a good bike but cant dish out $1000 +, this is the bike for you
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dogbert
a Cross Country Rider
from Lebanon, NJ Date Reviewed: September 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Round Valley, Chimney Rock
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Bike King (formerly Bike Line)
Strengths:
Great component spec for the price (Judy XC, LX/XT) Not as stiff (i.e. harsh) as other aluminum frames.
Weaknesses:
Flex in bottom bracket &/or crank area. ICON seatpost. ICON pedals seem to have a bad rep but I wouldn't know for sure since I took them off as soon as I got the bike home. Some front end washout in hard turns.
Similar Products Used:
Many comparably spec'd (and priced) hardtails from Fisher, GT, Cannondale, Giant, Specialized, Raleigh.
Bike Setup:
Upgraded Judy XC to 80mm travel, Thomson seatpost, WTB saddle, Time ATAC or Speedplay Frogs (depending on my mood), Salsa brake booster in rear...everything else stock.
Bottom Line:
I was looking for an inexpensive hardtail to use as a spare (my primary rig is a full-suspension). This Trek 7000 handles everything I throw at it, especially considering I sometimes forget to adjust my riding style when I'm on it instead of my fully. Ouch! It steers quickly through the tight stuff.
When I first test rode the 7000, I liked that it had a "lively" ride compared to my 2nd choice, a CAAD3 Cannondale. As I soon learned, this lively feeling was probably due to some flex in the bb/crank area (I weigh about 170 lbs). Noticeable yes, but not annoying. Would probably suck too much energy over the long haul of a race, though.
The Bontrager Corvair rims have held up pretty well. The ICON seatpost stinks! The single bolt clamp will not hold its position no matter high much I tighten it. The Avid 1.0 brakes have done a good job of slowing me down through mud, snow, long descents, etc. (not as good as my Hayes disc brakes, but ...)
I occasionally notice some front end washout through hard turns. The stock Bontrager Jones tires could be the culprit, or maybe it's the Judy XC fork (no comparison to my Z2 BAM).
Overall, this is a good hardtail, made even better by the price paid for the component mix you get. Crappy ICON seatpost notwithstanding, I'll give it a 5, even higher for value if I could.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Han
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Canada Date Reviewed: July 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
West Fish Creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Right stiffness for an AL frame, Beautiful Metal-Flake Blue, XT rear derailleur. Well spec'd for the price.
Weaknesses:
Icon crank is flexy when hammering in big ring. Icon pedals are not consistent.
Similar Products Used:
GT Zaskar
Bike Setup:
Stock 7000 with following changes: Manitou Spyder R, X517 rims, SRAM 9.0 SL Rear/LX F hubs, Time ATAC pedals, WTB saddle
Bottom Line:
Trek 7000 is one of the finest aluminium bikes at prices below $1000 US. It has a relatively comfortable frame for aluminium. Its components are easily upgradable but are fine for most riders. One can expect to drop 2+ pounds in bike weight (~26 pounds stock) by investing in a set of quality wheels, kevlar tires, and a lighter fork. There you have it: a great hardtail with very few faults. After a year of ownership, I would definitely agree with just about every Trek 7000 owner about the bike's position as a great buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Cock
a Weekend Warrior
from Port Angeles (gay), WA, USA Date Reviewed: July 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything as sexy as kurt and his paragon.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lighter than jonahs 8000 but not as sexy as kurts paragon. Nice components. Very nice! Light enough but not too fragile. So you can beat on it with out hurting it too much.
Weaknesses:
Avid 10 brakes. Could use 20's. Oh well. XC fork. Could use a race.
Similar Products Used:
8000, 6500, gary fisher paragon, and a 930 singletrack (hardcore!).
Bike Setup:
Very nice. Not as sexy as kurt tho.
Bottom Line:
BUY IT DARNIT!! It has very nice handling for downhill and xc. Very overall bicicle. I ride everything so i should know. I love it and its cool. If I were to do it again and have more $ i still would buy it but just upgrade more of the components. Frame is amazingly lightweght but still strong. Kurt is a fruitbooter.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Weber
a Weekend Warrior
from San Mateo, CA Date Reviewed: June 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Santa Cruz Mts. (all trails)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
PRICE!!! Excellent components for the money. Easily upgradable with little cost. Manuevers well (uphill, downhill, single track, street). Lightweight. The color is awesome. You can ride really hard on this bike - it delivers performance.
Weaknesses:
Weight of the Judy XC (also the boots-SUK!) I took them off 8 months ago and fork still performs like new. The paint also chips real easily on the forks, so I striped it and painted it black. Looks real good and I added my own decals (some RS). Icon cranks and chain ring (CHEAP LOOKING). The seat sucked (Bontrager really got it wrong). Cables running across top of upper tube on frame. I also didn't like the Icon stem (bad angle and looked cheap).
Lots of changes: Specialized Special Rise Bar (Black), Oasis grips, Race Face System stem, Shimano DX pedals, Ritchey Vector seat I also changed the angle of the brakes (more efficient), added crazy stickers All that's left to do is change the cranks and chainring. This wasn't an expensive change.
Bottom Line:
For the money this bike was the best buy!!! Feels and looks like a $2,000 bike (minus the SID SL shox).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ross
a Cross Country Rider
from Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: June 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
they don't have names...
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Everything!!!
Weaknesses:
Slight popping sound from the crank (I think!)
Similar Products Used:
I wouldn't call them similar....
Bike Setup:
Stock, except new pedals (I can't stand clipless!)
Bottom Line:
A great buy for any skill level of rider! It's a great bike for those who are just starting out, or for a pro rider who doesn't want to spend too much cash!! It's definately the best bang for your buck!
I've had very few problems with it that weren't my fault (I've trashed the rear derailler and the chain...) The crank seems to be making a wierd popping sound that I can feel every now and then... But after a year of abuse, I'm surprised!!! The rims have bent slightly, but nothing too serious yet.. I've found the tires don't do that well in mud, and if the mud is thick enough, the tires build up so much that it actually jams your fork!!!
But, I'd have to say that this bike has all it takes to go a long way! I've probably put 1000 km on it, and it's still going great! I'm sure this is a bike that'll last me awhile, and was definately worth the $1400 I paid for it!
This a great bike for anyone, and has everything you could every need straight out of the box! (unless your list includes barends or a rear suspension) If you really care about having a rear suspension, you can come fairly close by adding a rock shox seat post to the deal... But this only helps if your ass is on the seat!
It definately deverves five squashed tomatoes!!! (what are those?!?!?) Nice work down at Trek!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dras
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: June 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any steep
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Weight, components ( especially the rims and hubs) responsiveness, pedals
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000, Schwinn Moab 1, Specialized Stump
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I bought the 2000 and it comes stock with Bontrager hubs, rims, pedals, seatpost and seat. LX/XT throughout and weighs in at 24.9 lbs for a 19". All I can say is that bike is amazing and that if you paid $1300-1400 for it, I,d say it was worth it. But to consider I got it for $899...it's a freaking steal. I don't race yet but ride very hard and will fly off of anything I can find or climb and it just smiles and wants more. Why pay $2000 unless you are going pro?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mikey
a Weekend Warrior
from el paso, tx Date Reviewed: June 20, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
-very good components -price (around $1000) -upgradeable -looks very sharp -frame warranty
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Always owned Treks
Bike Setup:
not important for review.
Bottom Line:
The trek 7000 is probably one of, if not the best $1000 range aluminum hardtails you can buy. It comes with very good components, looks sharp and rides very good. Most importantly, Trek doesn't give you the run-around if you should happen to damage the frame. They will gladly repair or replace if anything should happen to it under their warranty conditions. Also this bike can be easily upgraded to really kick some butt. Get a Trek, you will be glad you did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
satiety
a Cross Country Rider
from Brooklyn Date Reviewed: June 20, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
frame fork rims
Weaknesses:
creaking sound from the frame weight of Judy XC
Similar Products Used:
GF HooKoo, Klein Pulse, Proflex, Softride MTB-EX
Bike Setup:
stock with Moxey Pro suspension seatpost
Bottom Line:
I've had this bike for a year's worth of abuse. It's a tough, with a reasonably light frame, with minimal maintenance fork, and good groupo. I luv the agility and geometry on this bike. I commute in the mean streets of Brooklyn to Manhattan and occasionally take it on XC treks. It has the agility to deal with rush-hour traffic or single tracks. I'm 200 lbs but fully loaded for work I'm 230.
With the addition of the Moxey Pro (3" susp post) the 7000 has been transformed into to best riding hardtail under $1,500 in my opinion. (Softride was more comfortable but heavier - and classified as a full susp.)
Most bike for the money at or slightly above it's price-point. Good job Trek!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad J.
a Downhiller
from I, Don't, Know Date Reviewed: June 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere Fast and steep
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Drivetrain Hubs ICON Componets
Weaknesses:
Shocks Heavy Carttridge came loose in crank (Dealer Problem) Tires They shred up after a month
Similar Products Used:
Tested a lot of bikes Trek was the best!
Bike Setup:
Stock Except: Bar ends Comp. Pedals Michelin Wild grabbers
Bottom Line:
The bike is great! They only part they should have had a little higher up in quality was the tires. They gripped terribly when they were rotating for dry conditions. Ifliped the rotation for mud, WOW what a difference. The rotation dir. is on the tire SWITCH IT IT HELPS. The bike is light and great for a hard-hitting person!\ Buy The bike!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawshank
a Weekend Warrior
from F.W.B. Florida Date Reviewed: June 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Brown Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Price, Climbs like a goat, Everything has held up after a year of abuse
Weaknesses:
The Icon pedals were not for me but held up until I could replace them with 747s. The creak but was able to fix this by putting loc tight on the seatpost.
Similar Products Used:
96 Trek 950
Bike Setup:
Stock except for barends and 747s
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike that will be around for a long time if properly taken care of. Light (well for under a grand), climbs well and looks good. To get rid of the creak... Take the seatpost out of the frame and smear loc tight on it, then place it back in the frame. I did this one time and have never had another problem even though there appears to be no loc tight left after a year of riding and washing. 5 bad boys for the price and 5 for the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff White
a Cross Country Rider
from Halifax, NS, Canada Date Reviewed: June 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wrandees
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame, Geometry, climbing ability, green colour (I love green!), Judy XC has worked very well, Good mix of components for the money.
Weaknesses:
Icon Chainrings bent and lost teeth, Bontrager hubs blew up, Avid 10 brakes lost all spring tension after a year, Jones tires suck.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stump, Cannondales, other Treks.
Bike Setup:
99 Swamp Green 7000 frame, Bontrager Mustang Ceramic rims on LX hubs, Michelin Wildgripper Lites, XT cranks, Avid Arch Rival 40 front brake, XT rear brake, Profile bar ends, LX SPDs, XT 9spd cassette, Cateye Enduro 2
Bottom Line:
I've owned this bike for almost a year now and I am still super happy with it. It climbs very well and descends smoothly, but I have found the headangle to be a wee bit steep on super technical descents. I am considering a riser bar and shorter stem as a possible remedy to this, but I'm not sure yet. I had some bad experience with some of the components like the Avid 10 brakes and Bonty hubs, but I expected to have to replace them, especially considering the technical stuff we ride around here. I started to race it again recently and it handles predictably and works well under pressure. You can just trust it to get you through. It's still a fantastic bike for the money and I expect to have it for a long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Palolo
a Weekend Warrior
from Honolulu Date Reviewed: May 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
St. Louis Hts but still looking
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great climber. Good mixture of shimano parts for the price. I am very suprised about the wheelsets. They stay true even after doing some heavy root covered trails and some DH with me on it.
Weaknesses:
Tires sucks. Chunks of rubber were breaking off. Brakes are O.K. if I clean the rim after every ride, in dry conditions. Changed brake pads, but now they squeal like a pig, but at least I can lock the rear going down steep declines. I wish Trek would of routed the cables under the top tube. I gotten the brake lever caught on the cables, and kinked the cables.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Xtc2, Specialized Rockhopper, Kona Munimula
Bike Setup:
Icon Maggie barends, koolstop thinline
Bottom Line:
The bike is great for xc rides and around town. Even occasional DH is fine. I'm 220lbs, and haven't felt I bottom out the front shocks yet. (I bottom out the Marzzochi z5 on the Kona Munimula jumping of the curb on a test ride) Paid $750 for the bike, and it came with better parts than similarly priced bikes, especialy the big brands. Don't bother buying cheaper bikes, you only spend more upgrading it. I put on lizard skin chain stay protector because the chain was smacking the frame on jumps and DH. But this is not a freestyle/DH bike and I could only afford one bike. I would recommend this bike to any one looking for a hardtail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy Brady
a Racer
from Richland Center WI Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any single trac
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Every thing is great except fo the seat
Weaknesses:
the seat
Similar Products Used:
98 Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
all Stock Except Bar ends and Shimano XT brake/shift combo
Bottom Line:
I had a 98 7000 then I went to a VRX 400 for a year. My budies said full sus was the way to go. They were wrong. Bought the 99 7000 this year for $600. You can't ride if you can't climb and that is what this bike is all about. Thecomponents package of Icon/Shimano and the Judy XC is the best on any bike for that money. I know pretty soon the frame is going to creak but I can deal with that. You can't beat the 7000 period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Rose
a Cross Country Rider
from North Kingstown RI, USA Date Reviewed: May 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Big River
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
frame, quality of components vs. $,
Weaknesses:
chainrings, front derailleur, frame creak?, grips, seat
Similar Products Used:
Rockhopper, Moab,
Bike Setup:
XT front derailleur, Speciallized seat, Cook Bros. seat post,
Bottom Line:
Great bike....just wish I could get rid of this frame creak which appears to originate at the seatpost. Amazed at the tracking and climbing ability this bike gives an average rider
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick FS
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I have 98 trek 7000 parts on a 99 frame since my frame cracked behind the bb and the right chainstay. I dont see how that was possible but anyways...they gave me a new one:)
Weaknesses:
CREAK CREAK! Im pretty sure its not a crack, but its from the wishbone, i heard somthing about putting lock-tite in there somhow??if you know about this, let me know
Similar Products Used:
98 7000 frame
Bike Setup:
98 7000 parts on 99 frame
Bottom Line:
Im pretty sure its not a crack on my frame, its a differant noise, not as bad, but annoying! but im strating to wonder about the frame, im jsut a weekend xc rider (15 years old) im hopeing i can find a way to fix the noise, so if you have any ideas, let me know at my email. Im sure its from around the wishbone. Dont get me wrong, this bike is awesome, well the 98 parts anyways. I just put a Judy Race on it, and its sweet!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thunderthighs
a
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Value!!!
Weaknesses:
Frame Creak Awful saddle Grips are too thin Lack of bar ends
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher: Big Sur
Bike Setup:
Stock: except addition of bar ends
Bottom Line:
I was fortunate enough to pick this bike up for $700 at a end of year sale. In this price range ($700-$900) most of the bikes will have very similar specifications: Aluminum frame, Mish-Mash of Shimano components, etc.... After about 6 months of abuse on a very sandy and wet Long Island, and very rocky lower hudson valley, I can honestly say this bike has come through in the class it competes in. As you will read in the other reviews, it does suffer from some problems. The seat and grips are hopeless, and mine has developed every cyclist worst nightmare....The dreaded frame creak. It sounds as if it's coming from the seatpost into the seat tube. When I asked at my local bike shop, the response was.....QUE?
If there is anyone out there who has had the same problem. Post it here on this forum.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Miggy
a Cross Country Rider
from Claremont, CA Date Reviewed: April 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
CHWP (all the illegal singletrack)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Everything. Frame, WEIGHT, shock, wheels, cockpit kicks ass
Weaknesses:
seat, pedals, front derailleur
Similar Products Used:
Moab 1-3, trek 6000, 6500, 4500, 800, 920,
Bike Setup:
stock, save 2 new seats (running a spec. body geo. race now) KORE B52 stem, new pedals, computer, bar ends
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks ass. I am 14 and have had it for about a year now and we (my bike and I) have been to Moab, Durango, all around Cali, and the trails in Washington. Rode it from San Francisco to Santa Brabara (450 miles) last summer and am doing it again this summer. Never had a problem. The seat is uncomfortable as hell, but with the new one it is really nice. The bike rips on singletrack, but not to hot on really hairy stuff, but not many hardtails are. just test it out and but it. now that its 2000, it will be hella cheap. just promise me you won't buy the $hit green color. keep the rubber side down!
5 FLAMING TURDS!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Miggy
a Cross Country Rider
from Claremont, CA Date Reviewed: April 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
CHWP (all the illegal singletrack)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Everything. Frame, WEIGHT, shock, wheels, cockpit kicks ass
Weaknesses:
seat, pedals, front derailleur
Similar Products Used:
Moab 1-3, trek 6000, 6500, 4500, 800, 920,
Bike Setup:
stock, save 2 new seats (running a spec. body geo. race now) KORE B52 stem, new pedals, computer, bar ends
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks ass. I am 14 and have had it for about a year now and we (my bike and I) have been to Moab, Durango, all around Cali, and the trails in Washington. Rode it from San Francisco to Santa Brabara (450 miles) last summer and am doing it again this summer. Never had a problem. The seat is uncomfortable as hell, but with the new one it is really nice. The bike rips on singletrack, but not to hot on really hairy stuff, but not many hardtails are. just test it out and but it. now that its 2000, it will be hella cheap. just promise me you won't buy the $hit green color. keep the rubber side down!
5 FLAMING TURDS!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fredrik Duck
a Cross Country Rider
from Oslo, Norway Date Reviewed: April 2, 2000
This bike stunned me. I have just used it a little while but it really kicks but. Fast climbing. No spinning. If you are the one that likes tricksy sngeltracks, buy Trek 7000!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Monck
a Weekend Warrior
from Randolph, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: March 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anywhere
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
everything.
Weaknesses:
Bent rear rim after 8 hours. Seat is not comfortable at all.
Similar Products Used:
Demo'ed a couple of products, like other treks and gary fishers and specialized.
Bike Setup:
Bone stock save new rear rim and spokes
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great deal. I got it for christmas and I have only had one problem. I try to ride five days a week, and I think that this bike is one of the best hardtails you can get with your money. The equipment package is A+. If you are in this price range, I would definately reccomend this bike and would buy again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn
a Cross Country Rider
from Elmhurst/ Centralia Date Reviewed: March 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
cedar lake
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This bike is very light, and does a great job in all sorts of terain. Very fast and strong rims stiff crank, and frame
Weaknesses:
Brakes, seat, and those pedals
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn 99 moab 1, 98 Gsx
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great deal, got minew for 700.00 and it is btter than the oo moab 1 Buy this bike if you are looking for a good bullet proof bike. 5 face plants
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bit
a Cross Country Rider
from batavia,il Date Reviewed: March 24, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
good overall setup, components...
Weaknesses:
frame may develop a creak, but can be remedied
Similar Products Used:
trek 8500,820 ....
Bottom Line:
I posted a review back in august 99, and am now updating my review. I had the creaking frame thing and the loctite fix worked fine. I ended up just short of six thousand miles on it last year and other than the frame thing never laid a wrench on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from New York Date Reviewed: March 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lightweight AND stiff. Great accelleration and climbing. XT very smooth. Very agile in tight singletracks.
Weaknesses:
LX front derauiller is weak. Pedals are not user friendly -- sometimes difficult to clip in, other times difficult to clip out. Seat is very uncomfortable.
Great bike for any money. It does need a few upgrades but I consider them all minor.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Strohecker
a Cross Country Rider
from Lansdale Date Reviewed: March 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wissahickon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good mix of components for the price. Overall geometry with the lengthened top tube, shorter stem, makes this a killer bike on twisty and narrow singletracks
Weaknesses:
Icon pedals a little hard to stay in....new 9 speed XT rear derailur is a little touchy, the cable slips on occasion (but bugs are expected on such new components)
Similar Products Used:
1999 Cannondale F500 Giant SE2 KHS team bike Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Basically stock for now though the fork is getting changed over to an Super Fly atom 80, the saddle to a salsa zona tres, and the wheel set over to mavic cross max
Bottom Line:
This is yet another wonderfully built bike from Trek. I've been riding Treks for about 8 years now and haven't been disappointed yet. The bike rails on twisty single tracks, accelerates very nicely, climbs smoothly, and is a steal at 899 with its componetry setup. What more can you ask for for the price??? I'd recommend this bike for someone looking for a good upgrade from rigid or someone looking to getting in to racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Rosa Date Reviewed: March 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
annadel
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great components for the money; light weight; great handling.
Weaknesses:
Front fork squeaks unless you keep the piston oiled.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for bar ends (which are not really necessary).
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks butt; it motors up hills and handles confidently and nimbly down hills; I simply don't think you can buy a better bike for the money; I would highly recommend this bike to anyone looking for a bike in this price range.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a5cetic
a Weekend Warrior
from Albuquerque, NM, USA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great components (XT/LX!), light, great price! Nice paintjob, too--yellow/blue with yellow Judy XC fork.
Weaknesses:
None yet, but I've only had it a week. It is starting to squeak a little, but probably just needs adjustment.
Stock, just put some barends and a computer on it.
Bottom Line:
I got this bike on closeout, marked down from $900 to $550. It was by FAR the best deal I found, and I looked at a bunch of bikes. This bike is light, the components rock (I did NOT expect to find an XT/LX bike at that price), the frame seems well built, having 27 speeds is nice, it looks great, and the shock has been good so far (Judy XC) but I haven't really given it a good beating yet. Of course, my last bike was a 10 year old heavy cromoly Diamondback Topanga without a shock (left it alone for a minute and it mysteriously vanished), so anything is an improvement, but this bike is just SWEET. I commute to work and school, and it's great for that, and it's even better on the trail. I have no complaints about it yet, but I've only had it a week. Anyway, for now I give it a 5 overall and a 5 for value because I got a great deal!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Lasker
a Weekend Warrior
from Huntersville,NC Date Reviewed: March 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Black Mtn trail Pisga Forrest
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
This bike can take a beating.Last year when I got the bike I road every day for 3 months straight. The bike never even needed a tune up. Even the rims stayed true which is really suprising,as a matterof fact I've never had my rims trued. I ride mostly in Pisga National Forrest so the three months of abuse was harty.Plus the people I ride with all have full suspention cadilac's so for me to keep up my bike was under alot of presure to preform.A+
Weaknesses:
none yet
Bike Setup:
stock with panaracer tires and some cheap lite barends
Bottom Line:
A great if not the best hard tail for the price. I would buy it again in a heart beat.With a few upgrades you could have everything and more out of this bike.This bike is perfect for intermediate to advanced hardcore riders.If you want a bike that can be thrashed every day and still want more the 7000 is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, IL Date Reviewed: February 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Strong light frame, good component package, looks
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Privateer S
Bike Setup:
stock + bontrager race lite bar ends
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! I really dig the component package that Trek came up with for this bike at this price - Judy XC fork, XT rear der, bontrager wheels and tires, bontrager clipless pedals, various LX and Icon components. Plus it looks good in the blue and yellow scheme.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross-Country Rider
from Lexington SC Date Reviewed: January 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Harbison SP
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good frame and component set for the money.
Weaknesses:
Chain broke. Seat rails bent.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F600& F700, Specialized stumpjumper, Raleigh M600 & M800, Gary Fisher Big Sur
Bike Setup:
Stock plus Icon bar ends, CODA suspension seat post, Avocet Mtn 15 saddle.
Bottom Line:
I ride 2-4 times a week. This bike is a big change from my old (1988) Trek 850. This bike is much lighter, shifts great and climbs well. The brakes are great too...I ended up on by back a few times the 1st week I had it. Some Cons: I didn't find the grips very comfortable and I replaced them with some Yeti's Bent the Bontrager seat rails the 1st month. Called Bontrager, they said can't help you. I trashed that saddle and bought an Avocet. The chain has broken a couple of times. The last time was about 2 months ago. The mounting hardware on the brakes and barstem are rusting already. I leave the bike on my truck and it does catch the morning dew, but I try to keep it out of the rain. I weigh 215 lbs and am pretty hard on the bike. Inspite of the cons, I think I'd buy it again.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Morrison
a Weekend Warrior
from Kingston, ON Date Reviewed: December 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
hardwood hills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
-Judy xc's; went to clean them and after 6 months of hard use, there was no sand, grit or metal shavings!! -The cross-country riser bars i put on, extra, stoped my backpains riding -Coda bar ends were nice until the riser bars
Weaknesses:
-Rear shimano xt derailleur 9 speed, never has worked properly -Avid breaks are stiff even with a lot of triflo -The jones tires are already worn down -Most importantly the icon left crank arm has always come loose and needs to be tighten every ride, until I took it in to the shop and found out they all have this problem. My friend fixed it using a coke can to make it wider.
Bike Setup:
Judy xc's with the thinest oil i could get for the most travel, I think it was 5 weight.
Bottom Line:
I have mostly liked the bike, probably wouldn't buy a trek agian though, kona's are nice!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Godwin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Evanston, IL Date Reviewed: December 18, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Durability, price/performance, components
Bike Setup:
Stock: Judy XC, Rear-D XT, Front-D LX
Bottom Line:
For the price this is the best hard tail aluminum frame bike you can buy. I've put over 2600 miles on it since I purchased it in Feb and with proper maintenance it rides like new every day. This is one solid bike!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Giles Harrison
a Weekend Warrior
from Lancaster, England Date Reviewed: December 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Nicky Nook
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Quality frame and components, great ride (after a few changes!. Good build and looks.
Weaknesses:
Bar to narrow, Judy XC folks don't suit my riding but may suit others.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000 Trek 970
Bike Setup:
My bike now has all standard equipment except for Judy 100, Tioga DH tyres, X-Lite G-Force bar and various pedals.
Bottom Line:
Great bike which is very flexible to the needs of the rider. Can easily be adapted to a slalom or xc bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Taber
a Cross-Country Rider
from CT Date Reviewed: December 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Case Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
what can i say that hasent been said this is a killer deal for the money. you get a top notch aluminum frame pretty darn good components american built quality and a killer blue or green paint scheme
Weaknesses:
none read me son none!!!!
Similar Products Used:
couple a giants and a proflex
Bike Setup:
added bar ends and the usual accesories its hard to improve on such a good thing
Bottom Line:
If your shopping around for a better than average hardtail with great entry level to almost race ready profile and cost is a factor this is the bike to have
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the one with the 4' drop...forget the name
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
good frame, stiff, nice (blue) paint job, Bontrager Jones tires, light weight, upgradable
Weaknesses:
icon junk, saddle, front deraileur, headset
Similar Products Used:
TREK 9.8 TREK 8900 TREK 8500
Bike Setup:
Raceface stem, bar, and seatpost Profile bar ends, Chris King NoThreadSet, XTR brakes, XTR shifters/levers and deraileurs, Flite saddle, (hubs, rims, and crankset soon to be upgraded)
Bottom Line:
A very good, stiff, light, frame but unfortunately everything else sucks, the judy XCs are way too soft (I'm only 165 pounds) but I'm going to try a heavier weight oil and if that doesn't work heavier springs, the icon cranks are warped and soon to be replaced with raceface, the LX front deraileur was terrible, the brakes were functional but not great, the headset had to be adjusted every time I rode more than 3 feet, and I've heard some terrible stories about Bontrager hubs which will also soon be replaced as soon as I have the cash, all in all I regret not buying the 8900 but the frames aren't that much different other than the paint and stickers so on with the upgrades...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lorenzo
a Cross-Country Rider
from Castelrotto, Italy Date Reviewed: November 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Upper Lake Garda
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame Design Tires Weight Color Scheme (Pearl White version) Manitou SX forks
Weaknesses:
LX Front Derailleur Bontrager RE-1 pedals Bontrager 10 saddle Sickers
Similar Products Used:
Kastle Montagne 95 Specialized Rockhopper 92
Bike Setup:
Stock w/Ritchey barends
Bottom Line:
Great frame, light, stiff and climbs extremely weel. Unbelievable improvement over my old Kastle 1995 rigid bike. The bike also handles weel downhill, where the Manitou SX does a good job. I ride the bike twice a week on rocky and often wet sigle tracks, that are typical of the Lake Garda area in the Veneto region, Italy. I had big problems with the LX front derailleur, that even after several tune-ups, still does not work well. I also don't like the Bontrager RE-1 pedals, as it is difficult to get in even using their specific cleats. I am stiching to Shimano 545 next week. Saddle is also mediocre, maybe lightweight, but definitely unconfortable. Apparently, to keep the price attractive, Trek had to compromise a bit on some components, but still this bike (that retails in northern Italy for 1200 USD) is quite a good deal. Four stars, maily for the outstanding climbing ability.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeffrey A Mentzer
a Cross-Country Rider
from Kalamazoo, Mi Date Reviewed: November 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Fort Custer Rec. Area
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
Excellent build quality, bonded aluminum lugs and Ice violet paint is flawless.
Weaknesses:
No replacable rear dropouts, but I havent had any problems with any of my bad get-offs.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper and Gary Fisher Hookooekoo.
Bike Setup:
Added a Mach 5 SX, Continental leader pro up front and comp pro2 out back, ritchey red brake pads front/rear.
Bottom Line:
7 years and still looks and rides like new. The bonded lug design is tough and the fit and finish is superb. lifetime warranty on the frame. If you find a clean unit, dont hesitate to buy it...it wont let you down. I've own mine since new and will never sell it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robin Wijnhout
a Racer
from The Netherlands Date Reviewed: November 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The Tarmac in the city
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The good thing on the Trek is the name and it is USA.
Weaknesses:
The weakness is are the bar-ends (well there are no bar-ends). And the 27 speed are crapy. And the most crappy point are the avid brakes
Similar Products Used:
Just 3 months I had a Giant atx 890 withs was better then the 7000 but it was stolen so I had to buy a new bike
Bike Setup:
I changed the Avis brakes to Magura hs33 and I changed the tires to Vredestein slicks 26-1,3
Bottom Line:
The bike is good but I-am a little spoiled over the years
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Evan Cook
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sunnyvale Date Reviewed: November 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Saratoga gap
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Stong, fast, light, fun, good color scheme, climbs nice. very versitile.
Weaknesses:
a little bumpy on rough trails, paint chips easyly. front derailer has given me some problems but not bad.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager race lite, Specilized stump jumper.
Bottom Line:
A good bike, well made and fun to ride, well worth the money spent. Its a very versitle and well balanced peice of work.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TREE
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle WA Date Reviewed: November 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
downtown Seattle
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
light fast stiff icon stuff not too many shimano parts
Weaknesses:
judy xc is way too heavy(about 3.9lb)but smooth cheap headset paint chips easy
Similar Products Used:
specialized A1 comp raleigh M80 mongoose some giant
Bike Setup:
stock + AMP fork
Bottom Line:
I am happy with those icon parts,specialy the stem,seatpost,and crankset.they are so much better than shimano's,which come with most bikes at this price range. Stock tires are very in rain.With $745, you can't find better deal.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Bowen
a Weekend Warrior
from Virginia Beach, VA Date Reviewed: October 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ross Camp Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame, great component mix, Judy XC, Bontrager wheels and tires, Dragonfly Green paintjob
Weaknesses:
Duh
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6000 Gary Fisher Tassajara
Bike Setup:
Bontrager Race Lite handlebar, Bontrager Race Lite bar ends, Tahoma stem, Thomson Elite seatpost, (all in black) Trek Radar computer, Shimano 545 pedals
Bottom Line:
My dream bike for the cash level I had available. Got this baby for 750.00 bucks and spent another 60.00 for the black cockpit stuff (at Supergo). Not only does this bike look great, it also performs like a ninja on the local singletrack. It's light and responsive while giving a rock solid ride. LX/XT/Icon drive train is a dream. Really great components throughout. The Bontrager rims and tires are some of the best you can get. The frame is high quality and definitly upgradeable if desired. This bike has help make me into a much better and agressively confident rider than I was on my Trek 6000. Great bike! 5 flaming chalupas.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tracy
a Weekend Warrior
from Georgia Date Reviewed: October 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Components, Price, Looks
Weaknesses:
Popping noise
Bike Setup:
Everything stock except I upgraded to XT brakes
Bottom Line:
I've had this bike for about 1 year, and I've put about 1000 miles on it. It's an awesome deal with the component package you get for under $1000...probably the best thing out there if you're looking for bang for your buck. The only complaint I have is with the creaking noise it started making (ask anyone with a Trek). This annoyed the **** out of me and caused me many trips to the bike shop to try and get it fixed. I'm only giving it 4 starts because of Trek's refusal to acknowledge the problem (I wrote lots of letters to them!). Overall however, it's been a darn good bike...especially for the price.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rsatiety
a Cross-Country Rider
from Brooklyn Date Reviewed: October 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
light bike, power transfer, brakes, agile
Weaknesses:
no bar ends
Similar Products Used:
Klein Pulse Pro-flex Hoo Koo
Bike Setup:
added moxey pro seatpost semi-slick tires
Bottom Line:
rigid, stiff, and agile. Great components - reliable and strong. Fork is great for cross-counry riding. Moxey Pro seatpost really set this bike off otherwise the regidity would pound my back. Sweet bike - love the agility and geometry on the trails. Mucho bang for the buck. I commute about 4 times a week from bklyn to midtown. Bike can take a beating.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Weekend Warrior
from Kutheis Date Reviewed: October 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Trailblazers @ FTHOOD
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This bike rocks! The Judy is great, the pedals are no problem, and the Jone's tires rule.Refreshing to see no bar ends--don't need 'em here because most of the trail is twisty singletrack lined with small trees anyway.
Weaknesses:
The decals chip up pretty easily. Of course I do ride in an extra rocky, dry area. Just that it don't hold up to the Scott Comp I had.
Similar Products Used:
'94 Scott Comp
Bike Setup:
stock. LX/XT, ICON, Bontrager.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for under 750 bills. - 1/2 star for the marginal finish.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gator Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Plantation Date Reviewed: October 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
don' t have one yet
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
very strong, light-weight.
Weaknesses:
none, yet
Similar Products Used:
none.
Bike Setup:
year 2000 model, trek 7000, bontrager fs-10 seat, onyx handle bars, bontrager superstock rims, manitou sx forks, LX/LX/XTR schimano stuff. i put on a softer seat.
Bottom Line:
I AM IN LOVE. At 6'2, 250 lbs, I did not expect to find a light-weight, quality bike that would feel strong enough to feel confident riding. It is amazing. I am riding this bike EVERY day since owning. I wanted to take it to the limit while under warranty. GREAT BIKE. GREAT PRICE. BUY ONE. CHANGE YOUR LIFE.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jg
a Cross-Country Rider
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: October 6, 1999
Since I had more time than money, I tested everything I could get my hands on. I found the rims on the Hardrocks to be suspect. The Moabs were heavy. The GT was too $$$. I was in between sizes on the GF's (otherwise - great bikes) and the selection of Univega's was limited with a limited dealer network. The Trek 16.5 inch frame fit me very well. I decided I needed the ZX frame and a damped spork. It came down to a '99 6500 (8 speed, Alivio/LX with Judy C) for $629 (close-out) or a '00 6500 (9-speed, Deore STX-RC/LX with Judy XC) for $729. Figured I'd upgrade all the stuff to LX or higher as it broke. Just before I decided, my LBS called to tell me they had a '99 7000 for a close-out of $749.Getting to the point...This is not a great bike for the money, it's a great product, period. The frame is light and and very stiff. The XT rear shifts incredibly smooth, even under load. The wheels are the best I've seen on a bike under $1000. Since I've owned the bike, I've pounded the #^%$ out of the rims and they are as true as when I left the shop. The Judy XC is great on XC singletrack and inspires perhaps too much confidence. Unlike straight elatomer sporks, it hasn't bounced me off my pedals yet. The ICON crank is stiff, light, and looks cool too.Upgraded (some SPD purists won't consider it an upgrade) the pedals to Shimano 323's. They have a regular platform on one side and an SPD harness on the other. Just made the bike more versatile. Didn't always want to have to go looking for my SPD shoes prior to a ride.My bike came out of the carton with the spec'ed Avid 10 brakes, but with the no-name, too-short, levers from a 6500. Told my LBS I wanted the Avid 1.0 levers the catalog spec'ed. They gave me the 1.9's at no cost.Only problems: On second ride, got surprised by a steep part of a trail and tried to downshift under a HEAVY pedal load - OUCH! Bent the $^&% out of the middle ring. My LBS gave me an LX middle ring at no cost. Probably wouldn't have happened if I had known what I was doing. The seat looks cool, but after a day of pounding, my fat butt is sore.A plug for all the great folks at Wheat Ridge Cyclery in Wheat Ridge, CO. They are honest, fair, took good care of me and really know their stuff.This bike rocks! Quality all the way around. Fast downhill, climbs like a frightened squirel. Handles like it reads your mind. Five muy calientes!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jasper de Jong
a Cross-Country Rider
from Nijmegen, Netherlands Date Reviewed: October 4, 1999
Favorite Trail:
beekbergse bossen
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Color (the nasty green!) wheels weight
Weaknesses:
-
Similar Products Used:
Admiral (I bet you don't know this brand :) crap bike.
Bike Setup:
Stock + barends + computer (don't know which one yet)
Bottom Line:
Very very nice bike. The frame is brilliant. I found the Judy XC a wee bit soft, I've set it up hardest possible. I guess I'll have to get used to a proper fork (I owned a no-name garbage bike with front sus!). I don't really like the steering bar, my handpalms start getting hurt quite fast, but i guess i'll have to do some adjusting.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Knox
a Cross-Country Rider
from Guelph Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: September 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
It looks sweet. great components (for the price) accelerates like mad no bar ends (never use them) handle bars are nice and wide for a stable ride (hey that rhymes)
Weaknesses:
could use a larger chainring up top for higher top speeds the seat ain't too comfy lacks bar-ends (if your into that)
Similar Products Used:
trek 6500 (nice bike for the buck) older hardtailled Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock (added a computer) oh ya... took off those clipless pedals and put on some platforms(what can I say I'm Old School)
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks. I'm turning 30 this year and haven't really rode a bike since I was a teenager (the first wave of BMXers). Then earlier this season I bought a $120 (and thats Canadian dollars!!!) 45 pound piece O'crap, but found I was lovin' be back in the saddle. I soon found that I was pushing the bike way beyond its limits (I was going to kill myself). Then I bought my Trek and boy what a difference. It's quick, nimble, 20 pounds lighter(than the piece o'crap) and the drivetrain and shifters are beyond anything I'd ever dreamt of nevermind used. The judy xc works great (a little stiction in the first few millimetres but hardly noticeable on the trails. Over all for my hard earned 1150 Canadian dollars nothing offered as likeable a deal as the Mightly Trek 7000. If your in the market you've got to check it out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Wilmington, NC Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
none yet
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Bang for $$$ XT rear, click shifters
Weaknesses:
Green color, didn't see the blue.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Big Sur (bought over the 7000) Specialized Stump/Rock Raleighs
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Came in second to the Big Sur, but a very nice bike for the price. Not much difference between the Trek and the GF, just the frame geometry of the GF. I didn't like the Trek 7000 green, but loved the GF green. I didn't like the Icon stuff either.After only an hour on the bikes, I could feel a difference between the seats on the GF and Trek. I think it has something to do with the geometry of the GF, but it might have been the size of the trek or seat height...who knows.Dealer was willing to part with it for around 750 vs. 800 for the GF, I figure a new seat and bar ends would run me more than 50, so went with the GF.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Z
a Cross-Country Rider
from Somerset NJ Date Reviewed: August 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Round Valley
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great Component package, Nice fork, Light for the price and great frame
Weaknesses:
No barends, my bike had faulty derailuer but got a new one
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Moab 1
Bike Setup:
Stock with bar ends and icon tork crank
Bottom Line:
Great bike for 900 bucks I love the icon crank and the Judy Xc rocks
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawshank
a Weekend Warrior
from OsanAB, Korea Date Reviewed: August 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Brown Mountain
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The whole bike is great Climbs way better than my old Trek and is very stable on the downs
Weaknesses:
No bar-ends but that was easy to fix
Similar Products Used:
Trek 950
Bike Setup:
Stock (with barends)
Bottom Line:
I have a total of 5 rides on it and every ride I am more impressed with the way it rides. I can now make it up places that before required me to carry my bike. The icon pedals took some getting used to but they work fine after a getting them adjusted. This has got to be one of the best bike out there for under a 1000 bucks. Buy the bike and have some fun. I give it a 5 and would go alot higher if I could.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Francois
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hull, Quebec Date Reviewed: August 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Camp Fortune, Chelsea
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
frame weight and stiffness, component package for the price, value and durability
Weaknesses:
fork a little soft for my type of riding, one cog was warped but replaced by LBS some noise coming out of the headpost and/or handlebar
Similar Products Used:
rocky mountain
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I took the bike on my favorite trail, which is fairly technical and rocky (site of this year's XC Canada Cup), expecting my wheels to come out of alignment, as with my other bike. It has proven rock solid, fast and nimble, light, smooth and real sweet. It took me awhile to get used to the ICON Somlemate pedals but they seem to be working fine. The shifting is smooth and higly effective. I love the great colors (blue and yellow) and just love the whole feel of the bike! Five stars without hesitation!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lamar
a Cross-Country Rider
from illinois Date Reviewed: August 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
trail 5,kikapoo
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
not expensive good grips. upgradeable
Weaknesses:
original parts arent good fork is a clunker tires cause pain shifters broke seat is a sodomizer
Similar Products Used:
schwinn
Bottom Line:
i liked it at first, but eventually the ride got shitty and i dont know why. i weigh 157 lbs, and ride relatively easy illinois trails, so i wouldnt get this bike again. but if you can make it work, i base my rating on the first 2 weeks,
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wyatt
a Racer
from Walkerton, On Date Reviewed: August 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
everything, the wheel set is great, nothing has gone majorly wrong.
Weaknesses:
the only thing is a bent middle cog. It puzzeled me cause it was bent to the larger cog and not the smaller. but the dealer gave me a new one.
Similar Products Used:
treks, gt, kona, C'dale, gary fishers.
Bike Setup:
normal stuff, specialized clipless pedals, control teck bar ends.
Bottom Line:
Its a great bike, I've fixed that clicking noise my self. The best bike I've had.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett
a Downhiller
from Gillingham Date Reviewed: August 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Going to Work (Strange!!!)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Still Everything (Almost)
Weaknesses:
Chain Snapped ( Bad batch I Think) Pedals.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Big Sur Specialized RH Comp A1 FS
Bike Setup:
DMR V12s Sachs Chain (Unfortunately) Sus Post
Bottom Line:
Excellent Bike, the chain buggered after two fixes. I believe this was a dealer problem. I have replaced with a sachs and have had no probs. The bike is wicked. I have the swamp green which rocks compared to the conservative blue/yell colour. Don't listen to the others. The bottom line is if you have a mid range budget and want the best for your money; buy this bike. FIVE BIG CAHOONAS!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Reid
a Cross-Country Rider
from Dhahran, Saudi Arabia Date Reviewed: August 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The one I am riding at the time
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame and tweaked components!!!!! Rides like a dream! Great Bike!!!!
Weaknesses:
No bar ends
Similar Products Used:
Owned a 1989 Trek 8000 until I bought this bike. Before that, I had a Ross Mt. Whitney from 1986-1988 (bucks-head XT components) - I've logged some miles off road!
Bike Setup:
Stock; cut 3 inches off of handlebar width.
Bottom Line:
I have a hard time believing that I can get a tricked out bike with a Judy XC shock and all the other toys for less than a grand! (although I paid about $1,200 for it in Bahrain) If you are on a budget or want to get the best performance for the money, GET THIS BIKE!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Vera
a Cross-Country Rider
from Galloway, New Jersey Date Reviewed: August 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Smithville Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Nice Colors & Decals Good Shimano Drivetrain Cool set of Icon stuff Nice Weight Trek Quality
Icon Fattie McGee.. Bar Ends Specialized Body.. Geometry Sport saddle Bontrager Mustang Rims
Bottom Line:
The real nice Shimano component group is awsome. The Icon crankset, seatpost, and other components makes it more closer to a higher-end bike that seems it should be over a grand. Also, Trek's Alpha ZX Aluminum frame contributes to it's lightness and is nice and stiff. And, the frame and the well-plushed Judy XC fork are disk compatible for those who so desire to. All this coming out for under a grand and at only 25lbs for my 18 frame, it definatly gets all 5 flaming turds.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chad
a Weekend Warrior
from gamecock country Date Reviewed: August 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
entire state of SC
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
LOOKS, Nice cushy fork (no probs yet)...brakes
Weaknesses:
no bar ends
Similar Products Used:
test rode everything available in 3 bike shops!
Bike Setup:
stock 7000, judyXC etc.
Bottom Line:
I am very happy since purchasing this bike. I did my research and came away with a very strong bike. It is very fast and climbs anything you throw at it! Trek lives up to its reputation with me so far! Big Sur (gary fisher) came in second with me, but after i heard TREK bought them out and all the horrid paint job stories, im convinced i maid the right choice! Specialized RH Comp came in third. The specialized was very heavy to me, it didnt feel very nimble at all!!! GO WITH THE TREK......YOU WONT REGRET IT!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ted bit
a Cross-Country Rider
from batavia ,il Date Reviewed: August 2, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bike Setup:
thudbuster seatpost, bar ends
Bottom Line:
I have over 3k miles on and off road on it so far and have no problems to report other than a creaking frame that I saw another reader has. After consulting my dealer he said the insert in the frame where the seatpost goes can come loose and loctite can fix it. If this happens see your dealer he'll take care of it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joshua
a Cross-Country Rider
from Lebanon, OH Date Reviewed: August 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Cesars Creek
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good component package for money and sturdy frame.
Weaknesses:
None so far, I've only owned it a week.
Similar Products Used:
97 Trek 850
Bike Setup:
Stock with Profile bar ends.
Bottom Line:
I was a bit etchy about buying another Trek. My last bike was a Trek and I broke the frame doing about 20 mph down a hill. So you can probably understand. They (Trek) also were terriable about working with my so called warranty! Thus I decided that I would take this bike for a spin and I very much liked it. I was also intrigued by the lime green and yellow. Plus you have to note the descent component package! The bike has so far been excellent and I have no complants! Thus I would recomend this bike to any new rider or someone with a tight budget!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from NY Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great components light yet strong frame
Bike Setup:
Stock bike added Rock Shox Suspension Seatpost
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. Had some tuning problems in the beginning but once dialed in, this bike performs. I added the Rock Shox seat post to take off the edge and am impressed with it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerad Weiner
a Weekend Warrior
from Arlington Hts, Illinois Date Reviewed: July 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Deer Grove
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
This was my first serious bike and I love it. So far nothing has gone wrong with it and I just think it was well worth every cent I paid for it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
kokapelia
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The whole package is great!! Shock Components and frame!
Weaknesses:
Cam't Complain yet
Similar Products Used:
Nothing that i can compare
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000 judy xc icon bar-ends.
Bottom Line:
Is that this bike kick a**. i climbs in downhills like a rocket. i have never gonna faster downhill on any other bike and it climbs like a goat. I give it 5 flamin' chielas
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maxwell
a Cross-Country Rider
from Killeen Tx Date Reviewed: July 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Dana Peak
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great componants for the money.
Weaknesses:
After riding the bike for awhile the frame developes a metalic click in the seat post area,sounding througout the frame,making you feel like a little old lady creaking down the trail.
Similar Products Used:
nothing similar
Bottom Line:
Great bike, just makes alot of noise.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff White
a Cross-Country Rider
from Halifax, NS Date Reviewed: July 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Jimmy's Roundtop
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame, Drivetrain, Judy XC, Weight, Price
Weaknesses:
Hubs have loosened a little, but it's nothing that can't be tightened
Similar Products Used:
Old and New Stump FS, Kona Muni Mula
Bike Setup:
Shimano LX SPDs, Profile Brief Bar Ends, George the rubber dinosaur strapped to the seatpost
Bottom Line:
So far, I absolutely love this bike. It accellerates quickly, the fork soaks up all the hits and the drivetrain is fantastic. I rode a 95 Stump FS (cromo) before this bike and I have to say I like this one better. It fits me better and complements my riding style more. Well worth the money. This bike should last me a long time, which is why I bought it.
$ 899.99
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
