Submitted by
Karl
a Weekend Warrior
from Arizona Date Reviewed: August 7, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$240.00
Purchased At:
craigslist - local
Strengths:
Lightweight aluminum frame, good wheels, good shifters
Weaknesses:
front deraileur, seat, handlebars
Similar Products Used:
specialized rockhopper
Bike Setup:
All stock except new tires.
Bottom Line:
I have had this bike for less than a week, but i have not been able to put it down since. I have been riding for about 3 hours per day. The bike was in perfect condition when I got it, but since then, the front deraileur has gone wacky and the brakes are out of adjustment. The seat sucks, it is like sitting on a hood ornament, whats up with the horrible seats on mountain bikes? Maybe these are easy things to fix on the fly, but having no previous experience with mountain bikes I'm not sure how to fix these problems. Nontheless, the bike has held up great against my nearly 200 lb frame, even during a face plant at the bottom of a hill - right over the handlebars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Oh Date Reviewed: November 7, 2005
Favorite Trail:
West Branch
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Freind
Strengths:
Frame, Cranks set, and LX/XT Drivetrain Avid Brakes
Weaknesses:
Fork
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6500, Santa Cruz Chameleon, Bianchi Tycoon
Bike Setup:
Mars Fork, 04 XT Crankset, Rolf Dolomite Wheelset, Thomson stuff, CT-2 bar, XT intigrated shifters, Original Avid brakes, XT/XTR drivetrain
Bottom Line:
Great Ride. I got hit buy a car riding mine. The car ran over the front wheel. Bent the handlebar, stem, both wheels and curled the non drive crank arm around the BB (lucky I didn't have my cleats on) Frame was not damaged at all (I don't know how) I got a date with the girl driving the car but no cash for repairs. Striped the frame powdercoated it and built it back up the RIGHT way. Now it is 23.6 lb of greased lightning.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, TX, USA Date Reviewed: February 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Flat Creek Ranch
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
BikeSport
Strengths:
Light, Good wheels, Solid Fork
Weaknesses:
Cheap Seat, Bad Large Chainring, Heavy Fork, Screwy Geometry, Bad sizing, cheap saddle, cheap headset.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale CAAD3 (97) ,GT Tequesta, Trek 800 sport, Barracuda A2E, Santa Cruz Bullit, Soul Craft, Airborne Ti, much much more
Bike Setup:
lx/xt drivetrain with stock cranks and custom built wheels bontrager valiant with revolution spokes/hugi hubs
Bottom Line:
This bike is crafted rather badly. The geometry is not neutral and is really good only for racing. The design is not as refined as even cannondale's caad 2 design. I rode a caad 3 for 11,000 miles which included 4 seasons of racing and only then did it begin to crack, and it weighs less than the trek 8000 frame, which in many cases don't go past 4000-5000 miles. The frame rides rough, the chainstays are too long in addition to the longish top tube which makes the bike handle slowly and doesn't respond well to lifting of the front wheel. This bike is difficult to manuver because you're forced to be spread over it. This bike is not very versitile. The seattube is built in two pieces, which made for an incurable seat post creak that no amount of grease would cure. they later solved this by simply removing the internal reducer, then requiring a larger diameter size in model years after '99. Trek used to make wonderful steel frames, but this one is a total loser, There are too many bad things I have to say about this bike, its not even fun to ride. If there was a way to rip people off with cheap aluminum and call it performance, Trek did it with this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael in AZ
a Weekend Warrior
from Chandler, AZ Date Reviewed: October 27, 2002
Favorite Trail:
National Trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Domenics
Strengths:
Value - A solid all-around a package at a good price
Weaknesses:
Brakes - I replaced them with XTRs Fork - Seems to have pooped out even though I've had it rebuilt 2x.
Bike Setup:
Profile stem, Icon riser, XTR brakes
Bottom Line:
This bike is the shiznit. I bought this bike in 11/98 and I am still using all the stock parts except those listed above, I'm still running the stock chain. All the mods I made were within the first 6 months and the only things I need to replace were the grips and tires. I think a lot of these reviews are made by p*****s. I bomb some wicked trails here, and I do a little urban assault (3 - 3.5 foot drops) on the side. This bike has stood up to everything I have thrown at it. The Icon components aren't the greatest, but for this price who can complain. I am 6', 165-170 lbs and my brother is 6', 180 lbs. We both ride the exact same bike and haven't had any problems. Maintenance (what's that) is not one of my strong points so the bike has seen little of it. For what this bike was intended for (and a little more) it's BULLETPROOF! For everyone complaining, either pay a lot more for a less than comparable bike, or SHUT UP AND RIDE! Cheers...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
herbert van leemputten
a Racer
from belgium Date Reviewed: September 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
mountains of austria
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Weaknesses:
it attracts chainsuck big time ( in wet-muddy european conditions )
Bike Setup:
changes : manitou sx for RS sid race '00 , V-brakes for HS-33 magura's and BB + crancks + chainrings for race face stuff
Bottom Line:
A super hardtail that can take a beating. In cold conditions the manitou started to freeze and no'one succeeded in fixing the problem so I changed it for a sid race fork. The BB and other rotating shimano parts are no match for the belgian weather, so I had to exchange em for better stuff (= more expensive ), for instance the first BB was totaly worn after only 400 miles (=1 month back then ). Same for the bontrager 44T chainring and the shimano chain. Never knew about chainsuck until I had my first ride on this bike. Sollution : put race-face BB and rings and crancks on it. However then the next problem arrises : race-face chainrings are hard and shimano chains (at least back in 99, dont know about now'adays) are like butter. I pulled appart 4 shimano chains in less then 100 miles , this made me decide to find better ones, first I tried Sram (= good) and then I ended up with connex (= even better) Finaly : I still own this bike but the frame is totaly at its end ( squicks all the time ) nevertheless it took quite a beating during 2 year of racing it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel Lira
a Racer
from Saltillo Coah. Mexico Date Reviewed: September 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Carbonera
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1180.00
Purchased At:
Zeta Bike Division
Strengths:
Great Bike for the money. I love the geometry.
Weaknesses:
Chain Rings. They wore out very fast
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Very good bike for racing, light, handles great, took all kinds of abuse.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Busy Dude
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: July 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hartland
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Bike Cellar
Strengths:
Light Frame. Bontrager parts. Great race bike but that's it.
Weaknesses:
Frame broke at chain stay near bottom bracket. Apparently this isn't an uncommon problem with this model. On my tenth ride with a new frame I got under warrantee it broke again! The stock tires are crap; they lack sidewall rigidity. What's with the crank that has a big chain ring permanently attached to it? I am now forced to ride that worn ring unless I buy a new crank. I don't plan to buy a TREK again.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Cinder Cone
Bike Setup:
Replaced tires with Panaracer Smokes. Changed handlebars to risers.
Bottom Line:
The only thing that impressed me about this bike was TREK's fast and hassle free response to replacing the frame under warrantee. Perhaps this was a poor choice for the trails I ride but friends ride the same trails with the same setup without problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Weekend Warrior
from Winnipeg Date Reviewed: May 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Tremendous overall quality/price ratio package.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager stock seat...a killer. Invest in something decent.
Bike Setup:
Stock except Terry Liberator saddle
Bottom Line:
A good investment that will take the abuse. Definitely would buy again and recommend to those who want to have fun riding. With normal wear and tear on components, frame definitely worthy of upgrading with higher quality/range components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
clint hosman
a Cross Country Rider
from mesa, az usa Date Reviewed: October 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
south mountain
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
strong frame.
Weaknesses:
icon everything, it hasnt broke but it looks cheesie.
Similar Products Used:
c-dale killer v
Bike Setup:
everything is the same aside from ariser bar.
Bottom Line:
for a intree level bike it smokes, ive burned guys on a lot nicer rides.ive had no problums whatsoever with it in the whole two years of rideing it.id recomend this bike whos wanting to get into the sport.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jonathan h
a Cross Country Rider
from tpa. fla. usa Date Reviewed: August 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
pisgah
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
stiff,fast,reliable,great dea
Weaknesses:
icon,icon,icon,not the best name for a temporary part group
Similar Products Used:
specialized m2, gt zaskar.......
Bike Setup:
mavic 517,xthubs, thompson seatpost and stem, xt cranks, xtfront derailleur, oury grips, monkeylite bar, un-72....
Bottom Line:
Purchased this bike on 2-10-99. This bike took some getting used to. after a year of hard riding, i had replaced: a bent stem, seatpost and handlebar (all icon), and numerous cassettes, chains and the rear hub. To be expected for a clydesdale but expensive none the less. The bike, overall, is wonderful. It inspires the rider to improve and allows one to do so. The creaking frame is, in fact usually an under-lubed seatpost support( inside the frame). All of the whining owners of this bike, need to learn how to change their own tubes, lube their own chains, and appreciate the fact that they are able to ride in places that their huffy could'nt go. I will continue to ride it and if the frame does break, TREK WILL replace it. Have a little faith and appreciate.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard Chen
a Racer
from Huntington Beach, CA Date Reviewed: March 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Top of the World, Laguna Hills.
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
Huntington Beach Bicycles
Strengths:
Great Frame, well balanced.
Weaknesses:
Icon parts aren't that good. The front chainrings and chain wore out after a season and a half of racing, which in turn ate up the rest of my derailleurs.
Similar Products Used:
1994 GT Tequesta (my old old bike back in the days).
Bike Setup:
All the parts are original except for the drivetrain which wore out. I replaced the icon crankset with an XT crankset w/ rings, replaced the chain with the SACHS chain, and replaced the front deraileur with an XT, and had to buy a new rear derailleur.
Bottom Line:
I go to school here on the East Coast and I have been racing for two seasons in the ECCC with this bike. I am a heavy rider (180lbs) and with all the abuse I put it through, it has held up incredibly well. Overall, I have put in $200 in maintenance of the drivetrain, but that is understandable due to the strain I put on the bike. This is one incredibly built machine and is definitely worth the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from T.O. Date Reviewed: March 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hardwood Hills
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Boyd's
Strengths:
Everything, but . . . .
Weaknesses:
The LX BB and rear freehub
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Klein, Thin Blue Line (wicked), Rocky Mountain...ect..
Bike Setup:
full Race Face, XT . . . .
Bottom Line:
**Just an update** I've had the bike for little over 2 years now and all I have to complain about is the LX gear on te bike. I replaced both the freehub and the BB, but that's undersandable due to the cheapness of LX :o) Overall I love this bike, I've never ridden a better XCer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from T.O. Date Reviewed: March 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hardwood Hills
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Boyd's
Strengths:
Everything, but . . . .
Weaknesses:
The LX BB and rear freehub
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Klein, Thin Blue Line (wicked), Rocky Mountain...ect..
Bike Setup:
full Race Face, XT . . . .
Bottom Line:
Just an update. I've had the bike for little over 2 years now and all I have to complain about is the LX gear on te bike. I replaces both the freehub and the BB, but that's undersandable due to the cheapness of LX :o) Overall I love this bike, I've never ridden a better XCer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lloyd!
a Cross Country Rider
from Idaho Date Reviewed: March 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Fisher Creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
warranty
Strengths:
Actually, I'm just reviewing the 1999 SLR frame, which Trek sent to me to replace my cracked 1998 frame. It's a good, decently designed, lightweight frame.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
1998 Trek 8000
Bike Setup:
1999 SLR frame, 2000 SID XC, Thomson stem and post, all 2001 XT 9 speed components, Time pedals, Bontrager maverick/LX front, Mavic 517/XT disc rear.
Bottom Line:
A good, lightweight but sturdy frame. Trek fixed the 1998 version of the SLR frame by welding a gusset on the driveside where the chainstay meets the BB. My 1998 SLR frame cracked at that very point, but Trek seemed to fix the problem in 1999. 4 flamin' roaches.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Gordon
a Weekend Warrior
from Napa, CA Date Reviewed: March 21, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
St. Helena Cyclery
Strengths:
The frame is strong for the first year, but now it creaks. heavy, BUT KILLER LOOKING RIMS.
Weaknesses:
Long stem, chain snaps. The flat bars flex pretty bad. Oh, and my "Macro" adjust seatpost striped out.
Similar Products Used:
2000 Giant XTC se1
Bike Setup:
Stock xept for a Rocky mountain stem, and Azonic PDW's
Bottom Line:
Buy the bike if you are on a budget and want a killer setup
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Albus Dumblydore
a Downhiller
from London, England Date Reviewed: January 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tour du Hogwarts
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Hogsmead Bike Shoppee
Strengths:
Speed! This bike can blast off like a rocket and the control is great!
Weaknesses:
The posture of the bike causes the rider's balance to be on the wrists and arms and caused me some discomfort.
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche, Norco Nitro
Bottom Line:
I think that this bike was a really good investment and I have spent a lot of quality biking time on my bike and look forward to spending some more time on trails with my Trek 8000. The pedals, however, of this bike are not great, however, so when I changed my pedals to GT BMX pedals, I found that the preformance of my bike was upgraded.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt F
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: November 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
wouldnt tell you if you tortured me
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1049.00
Purchased At:
UC cyclery
Strengths:
One of the best frames/bikes you can buy for the money!! It's disk compatible if you want it to be, it is quick handling and has a wide range of components on it and with a few medium priced upgrades you have the ability to make it a great overall race or very very fast cross country racer! It is quick and predictable and tracks like it's on rails, it comes with a decent component package that makes it fun and free of breakdowns and really reliable and very trouble free!!
Weaknesses:
The shock almost without question needs to be adjusted for the individual rider and most good shops will be happy to do it for you free of charge or for very little extra for tuning it in for you. Most riders over 150lbs. will find that the shock does not support them well. Also the shock does not work well with tire over 2.0" the shock will bottom out on it and rub if you hit it hard you will be practicing your somersault techniques in the air. Other than that there are no weaknesses in the bike as a whole! One of the best frames I have ever ridden and with some upgrades a NORBA racer for sure!! Also the seat sucks if your a guy! but hey what do you expect that even happens on $5000.00 bikes!
Similar Products Used:
Too many to name I work at a shop and have ridden alot of similar bikes and this is one of the best around!!!
Bike Setup:
Severely changed from stock!!! Easton riser bars and carbon seat post, full XT througout, Mavic CrossLinks, 858 pedals, flite saddle, KORE stem, Cane Creek headset, Michelin Semi-slicks, Mars 1 shock, Stock avid 1.9 brakes and levers, stock XT R.Der., now the bike is right around 20lbs. and is alot of fun to ride!!
Bottom Line:
For the price point it is truly one of the best bikes around!! Hard to beat in this truly competitive bike in it's price range. Well worthy of upgrading the smaller sizes tend to ride a bit harsh and you may want to look into getting a USE seatpost or a carbon seatpost both take quite a bit of the edge off of the ride of the bike. YOU WILL have to tune the shock to your weight if you are over 150lbs. Other than that it is a guranteed best buy for it's wide range of capabilities as an overall bike it is darn hard to beat ride the heck out of one every chance you get!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Racer
from West Milford, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: September 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything challenging
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1089.00
Purchased At:
Town Cycle
Strengths:
Light stiff frame, solid ride, excellent climbing thanks to the geometry. Most of the components are great. No big problems. Fork is decent. Rims are heavy but strong-well worth the weight. Handles excellently downhill, very responsive. It handles whatever I can throw at it.
Weaknesses:
Tires need serious help. Bottom bracket creaks like crazy. Sprocket is soft, teeth bend easily. Pedals suck. I'd rather jam sticks in my cranks and ride. Seat could be better.
Similar Products Used:
1994 Trek 850 Tank
Bike Setup:
All stock except for new Panaracer Fire XC PRO on rear. Bottom bracket will be new asap.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. Frame is excellent. Components are good. The possibilities for upgrades are endless although not necessary in most cases. This bike can take a pounding. I've put it through some of the nastiest stuff I can think of and it comes back for more. If people that are worried about it's looks or decals, worry about your riding instead. Race it, ramp it, take it to the limit. This bike will get you where you need to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: August 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$700.00
Strengths:
Light frame,price
Weaknesses:
Bontrager pedals(mine broke), rims(far to heavy), stem (whats with that rise?)seat (not very comfy)
What an exellent bike.With a few changes(as parts have broken or worn out)this bike has become an great racing and fun light weight trial bike.As standard set up this bike is bike is an exellent package and begs to be thrashed and up graded to seek its full potental.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DAAZ5
a Weekend Warrior
from JERSEY CITY,NJ,USA Date Reviewed: July 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame is stiff and great for climbing. Weight ratio is excellent.
Weaknesses:
LX Derailer
Similar Products Used:
Trek 9.8, Specialized Rockhopper, Cannondale 700
Bike Setup:
Judy SL shock, chris king headset, monkey lite downhill bars,panaracer xc tires,
Bottom Line:
Trek 8000 is definitely worth the money. Ridden the bike for more than a year and get more impressed with each ride. The bike right out of the box is more than enough. Any one in this price ranges should have no choices on what bike to pick..................TREK 8000............................
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ethan
a Cross Country Rider
from honolulu Date Reviewed: July 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
All hawaii
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
strong frame. avid brake/lever combo. bontrager wheel set. sticker designs. put back the rock shox fork on for 2000
Weaknesses:
tires. seat. CRAP MANITOU SHOCK
Similar Products Used:
96 trek 8000
Bike Setup:
replaced the seatpost w/ rock shox susp.seatpost(no problems yet) specialized body comp seat. riser bar. michellin hot s tires
Bottom Line:
EXCELLENT POINT AND GO BIKE. VERY STIFF AND RESPONSIVE FRAME. FEW UPGRADES WILL KEEP THIS BIKE RUNNING WITH THE BEST HARDTAILS OUT THERE. THIS BABY LOVES TO CLIMB TOO. GET THIS BIKE IF YOUR NEW TO RIDING OR HAVE BEEN AROUND TO KNOW THAT QUALITY COUNTS WHEN FINDING THAT SWEET RIDE. FOUR FLAMIN TURDS FOR PUTTING THAT SUCK ASS MANITOU FORK ON IN 99 AND FIVE FOR A KICK ASS RIDE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
captain kirk
a Cross Country Rider
from Ogden, Utah Date Reviewed: June 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
powder ridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great bike for getting me excited about riding after 10 year layoff. Light, front shock, handlebars, brakes, Shifters. Looks.
Weaknesses:
Seat, tires, pedals,
Similar Products Used:
15 year old bianchi tank. 200.00 Trek 800
Bike Setup:
liberator seat very comfortable, shimano 858 pedals much easier to get out of, panaracer fire xc pro tires great durability and great grip, icon fatty bar ends, cateye cordless.
Bottom Line:
Been on it for a year now. Once I changed pedals this spring I am much happier. Switched out seat and tires when new. I have loved riding it. Have about 400 miles all on local mountain trails. Which are all pretty much hard pack with a lot of rocks. Seems to climb very well. Is a little bit of hard ride on fast rough downhill. Shock is great but I was expecting even more of a smooth ride. After reading some other reviews I think I will check on seat post shock. My frame has just started creaking noise. I will see if LBS can fix it. I have had no problems with anything. I did take back after break in period and have adjustments done to brakes shifters etc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Lam
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, ON Date Reviewed: June 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good value for $, excellent frame and good part spec, good solid neutral-biased geometry, excellent climber, stiff and no flex, upgradable frame, ready-to-race.
Weaknesses:
Some may find decals and paintjob too loud, decals are not clear-coated but are instead on top of the clear-coat so durability is an issue, Bontrager Revolt ST2 are no good for technical riding, roll decent but don't inspire confidence.
The frame is stiff and responsive, double-butted 6000-series aluminum with gussetting, wishbone monostay, ovalized downtube and chainstays, and replaceable derailleur hanger.
Overall the ride is stiff as expected for an aluminum bike, though I felt that it was a tad less harsh than the Trek ZX frame (non-butted). Excellent climbing due to the stiff rear triangle and very neutral-biased XC geometry. The geometry doesn't have any bad habits nor advantages, just good all over and comfortable. I did change the stock Icon stem and bars for a longer Bontrager Race AHS stem and RaceFace Low Riser. This gave me a more stretched out position and really helped my climbing. I felt the stock stem+bar combo did not put enough weight on the front-end.
Another contributing factor was the great Manitou SX. TPC damping, external adjustability, stiff, and well controlled damping gives a very confident ride. Handles everything well, although I would appreciate perhaps a little more small bump sensitivity. Lightened up the compression damping a bit from stock settings and found an optimal ride from the fork.
The wheels are relatively good. The Bontrager Maverick ASYM rims are a little heavier than say a pair of X517, Valiants, or Mustangs, but are strong and cool looking with the red anodization. In one year of riding, only had to true the wheels recently, and all that took was minor adjustment to two spokes on the front wheel! No problem from the 15g DT spokes or Bontrager/LX hubs either. The problem was the weak Bontrager Revolt ST2 tires. Acceptable racing tires, but I'm sure there are much better options out there. The tires did not inspire any confidence in technical sections. The rear would slip out on steep climbs and the front did not grip as tenaciously as other tires. I have since replaced those tires with Bontrager Revolt SuperX -- which are amazing by the way. Roll extremely fast, high volume, low tread, and grips tenaciously. Similar to Hutchinson Pythons.
Shimano LX/XT drivetrain works flawlessly. Avid brakes likewise. Icon crankset surprisingly performs well. Nice and stiff, looks sweet, and shifts great. Bontrager RE-I pedals are decent performing pedals, although they aren't as mud-loving as they are advertised to be. Still experienced problems clipping in and out when muddy. Also switched the stock UN-51 bottom bracket for a lighter UN-72, but otherwise no problems.
Lastly, I think the paint job and decals is a love or hate situation. You either like the flashy Trek team colors similar to Travis Brown's ride or you think it's too ostentatious. Furthermore, the decals are on top of a clear coat so durability may be an issue if they are scratched. Would be nicer if the decals were underneath a clear coat. Otherwise, the paint has held up well.
Overall, aside from the minor deficiency in the tires, the bike is an amazing ride. You won't find anything extraordinary, but what you will find is a well priced great deal, with good part spec, and a tremendous bike that does everything well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd Grywinski
a Cross Country Rider
from canada Date Reviewed: June 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Birtch pan am trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
strong frame,very light, with excellent entry components, works great
Weaknesses:
bottom bracket has made creeking noises, but easy to fix, and paint flacked off, luckely warentied, trek was really good about it, re-painted it any color i wanted
Similar Products Used:
trek 8500
Bike Setup:
XT, LX cross, Icon
Bottom Line:
This bike is great for the money and doesn't have any distinctiv problems. perfect bike for soopin up. i recomend this tevery one because i think its a wicked bike for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
spanky
a Cross Country Rider
from milton fl Date Reviewed: May 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
great frame, handles good and its light, components are good for the money
Weaknesses:
re1 pedals are inconsistent on release in sandy conditions.i have a little creek sound i cant locate
Similar Products Used:
a bunch
Bike Setup:
stock intill the wife comes off some money
Bottom Line:
its a great ride, i would replace the pedals but they are pretty good and i used mine for a year and havent had to many problems. also you might want some new tires, but other then that for the money you cant beat the bike.for god sake find the creek if yours does the same thing mine does, its in the seat post somewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Kemmerer, Wyoming Date Reviewed: May 19, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
Great bike! Bought the Trek because of past good experiences with their products (our family has had 5 Treks including this one). So far, no problems. I rode the bike hard everyday for four days on different trails in Moab without problems and enjoyed every ride. Bike is light-weight. Shock and other components work fine though the 9-speed stuff can be difficult to adjust. The bike will climb anything I have the stamina for. So far, no frame noise. Paid $725.00 on a closeout so I can't complain about what I got for the price. Great bike for a weekend warrior.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ping Pong
a Cross Country Rider
from Southern Ontario Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hilton falls
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light bike, responsive, good frame and parts that count, great suspension from the Manitou sx, competitive price.
Weaknesses:
Ugly red/white stickers on bike are an eye sore and cover up the frame too much, has problem selecting and staying in one gear on bumpy trails at speed, saddle is hard and of cheap quality and butt ugly with red wings,
Similar Products Used:
no
Bike Setup:
changed shifters to gripshift plasma, replaced saddle with Bontrager F-2000 a very comfortable and good quality leather saddle, albeit the stiching is a bit bright. Added rock shocks suspension seat post, before which the ride was unbearably harsh due to al. frame.
Bottom Line:
The Trek 8000 is an excellent bike overall, it feels solid and light without extra fancy and expensive bits on it. The Manitous sx is super, adjustibility is great, rebound and compression, allows the bike to float over small rocks and bumps and can take big hits too. One problem though, the rebound adjustment knob on the bottom of the left fork was too loose and fell out while riding, lucky to have seen it, had it tightened up under warranty at the LBS, no problem. Defenitely better with grip shifts, the Avid brakes/levers are excellent, lighter than XT, two adjuster screws, they lock up the wheels on demand, if you need more stopping power, add boosters. The RE1 pedals are great, smooth entry good hold and easy release, it is xtr quality if you check the specs and price. The crank and chainrins are also good, although the nine speed casette had a bit of a flaw, the smallest cog wheel had a loose washer, had to have it fixed at the LBS, under warranty. The saddle is the worst part of the bike, like sitting on a chunk of wood, I replaced it quickly. The wheels are good, have not gone out of true yet, and the rubber grips fine on hard pack trails. Overall this is a mountain bike you can really enjoy and with good maintainance should last many years, the frame, will have to see how long it lasts, but it has a lifetime warranty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a
from Lee Date Reviewed: April 19, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
lite frame, great bike
Weaknesses:
brake pads lasted couple months, xt brake levers are cheap.
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher paragon
Bottom Line:
same bike as all its rivals in the price range just alot liter. i would get new tyres just like on any new bike you buy. best are michelin lite s.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David "DTREK" Guerrero
a Weekend Warrior
from Alta Loma,CA USA Date Reviewed: April 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Marchall Canyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Fast, sporty colors, great price!
Weaknesses:
the manitou fork allthough has been doing great, still needs more travel,
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Mechelin wildgrippers hots and Specialized Geo pro saddle, and gofast riser bars. Upgrading to SID XL longtravel fork soon.
Bottom Line:
It's a great bike! I paid $975 out the door in Los Angeles. Haven't had any real problems, besides minor adjustments. Best deals in LA are @ BicycleDoctor-la.com check them out. Talk to Bruce and tell him I sent you... Over all EXCELLENT RIDE!!! Don't plan to change frame just upgrade...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shaun Bond
a Cross Country Rider
from D'Escousse, Cape Breton Date Reviewed: March 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Doyle's Road
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Excellent frame, color and components (most).
Weaknesses:
The front tire (Bonty) washes out quite easily. The Avid's aren't the greatest brakes available. The Bontrager RE-1 pedals are pure crap.
Similar Products Used:
Giant ATX840.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Maggie HS-33s (Tomac), Bonty crowbar (riser), stem and seatpost, and Time pedals.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike when it comes to handling, as well as price -- you get a lot of bike for the price. In terms of components, the Avid brakes could use an upgrade, the front tire needs to be changed because of its inability to stick in turns, and the pedals have got to go. All in all, an awesome ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Harry Davis
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: March 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any and all
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Fast. Nice colors.
Weaknesses:
Creaks like my granny's rocker. Somewhat flexy. Stock tires washout on most trails. Stock brake pads lasted about a month. Bottom bracket lasted about two months.
Bike Setup:
Stock except Crowbar handle bar, raceface SyStem, Panaracer Fire XC's, Rock Shox suspension seatpost
Bottom Line:
Bike is good but not great. With a few tweaks it is much improved (see setup). Definitely dump the tires. Other then my complaints above, it has served me pretty well.
To fix the creaking drop some Loctite blue or green inside the seat tube. Just apply liberally and turn the bike upside down. Make sure to get it into the collar joint. This will fix your creaking problems. Mine has been creak free since I did this about 6 months ago.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Racer
from New York Date Reviewed: March 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Cool colors, components, excellent wheels, weight
Weaknesses:
FRAME FRAME FRAME, brakes are not that powerful
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Big sur, Trek 7000, Trek Y-11, Cannondale Super V 900
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for added brake boosters and added Michelin Wildgripper tires
Bottom Line:
This bike is not that hot. After owning it for about a month, i heard severe creaking from the seat tube, as a result, the welding was cracked. I received another frame at no charge, and the same problem happened again. It has great components, and a really good ride, but if its durability, not looks and flashy components, do not buy this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Winter Garden, FL Date Reviewed: March 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Santos
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great frame, value, components
Weaknesses:
pedals
Similar Products Used:
trek 6500, khs, diamondback, GT
Bike Setup:
stock except for rock shox seatpost and liberator ti saddle
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks! For the money (I paid $700, new), I got a fast, responsive, light and strong bike. I am 6'4", 210 and this bike has done me right every ride. The manitou fork does a decent job, although I would like a bit more travel for my size. A lighter wheelset might be an area that you would consider upgrading, but the stock does fine. The bike had it's adjustment period where it creaked a lot and I had some shifter trouble, but those problems went away in a couple weeks after some tweaks. Even if I ever had a problem with the bike, the guys at Trek have great support so that puts my mind at rest for any possible problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: March 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ridgeway
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame, Forks, Value for money
Weaknesses:
No weaknesses at this price but in time I will upgrade some of the components
Bike Setup:
Factory set up
Bottom Line:
This is an excellent bike. I understand peoples frustrations if frames are cracking and Trek should resolve the problems. But other than that, everyone else should consider how you could get better value for money than the Trek 8000. The frame is light, responsive and stiff enough. Trek no doubt keep the price down by using some lower grade components, but the qualtiy of the frame means that you can upgrade components as parts wear out. I will upgrade brakes, BB, Front mech in time but first few rides confirm my reasearch. This is the best value for money bike in the UK and worthy of upgrading the components. I just hope the frame doesn't crack!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Anderson
a Racer
from Moncton, NB, Canada Date Reviewed: March 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame hasn't broken, yet
Weaknesses:
Frame and crank flex, nine speed, bad bb or bb shell
Bike Setup:
Stock execpt Speedplay pedals
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up of a review that I posted about a year ago. I still have problems with this bike, but most have been ironed out. The wheels aren't very stiff, they're like wet noodles. I had to modify the brakes so that they don't rub on the tires in all out efforts, they work much better now. I still have recuring problems with my bottom bracket, it seems to like to back itself out of the frame and make me walk home. I have replaced it with the same results. I have to keep an eye on it and periodically check it for tightness. As for the frame, it is really flexy, too flexy for a big tube aluminum frame. Do I sense imminent failure? The nine speed stuff doesn't work. It is too touchy to adjust, but I am experimenting with different setups to try to cure the problem. I have recently had a chance to ride a y2k 8000, and it seems a lot of the problems have been fixed, ie: better brakes, better wheels, better fork. All in all the bike still has a good ride despite the problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick Villaverde
a Cross Country Rider
from Knoxville, TN, USA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Norris
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame Design & Light Weight. Nice componentry for the buck.
Weaknesses:
Limited Lifetime Warranty....only one year on the paint and decals.
Trek makes excellent frames and you get your moneys worth out of them. The zx7000 was the last of the mended frames and the 8000 is the new welded joint frame style. The bottom tube is huge and oval shaped for strength and the chainstays are also oval for solid braking and fast getaways. Very nice paint job and decals too.......looks really racey!
-Speed Racer
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc Wang
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore Date Reviewed: February 17, 2000
Great Bike ... the ride is in a class of its own . It numbs the bumps .... not much , but noticeable . The fork is plush , but does not handle stutters of large drop offs too well . Good for midsize bumps .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Victor Manuel
a Racer
from San Juan, Puerto Rico Date Reviewed: February 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Salinas Olimpic Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light frame, excellent overall parts for the price, sizing and geometry...Judy Race does it great too...
Weaknesses:
Should include better brake set and pedals...(avid 40 & Bontrager pedals suck!)
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher "KAITAI" Gary Fisher "ZIGGURAT" Raleigh "M 800" Trek 9000
Bike Setup:
Factory set up...pretty good for the price as I said!!!!
Bottom Line:
BOTTOM LINE!! It is a great buy for the price. It says "SLR" as for a light weight frame, but it isn't really that much of light MTB...
Judy Race handles great on VERY tough terrain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin
a Cross Country Rider
from MA Date Reviewed: February 14, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Every single aspect of this bike
Weaknesses:
Nothing At All
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale f700, Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
99 Model - nothing changed or replaced at all
Bottom Line:
This Bike is my dream bike. my dream came true just under six months ago, and I couldn't be happier. This bike has an awesome ride - very snappy and loves to speed around. The frame is absolutely beautiful, and the fork gives the truesest steering I have ever felt. I would have bought this bike if it weighed 35 pounds, but the icing on the cake is it weighs under 30 (I think around 26-27) Absolutely wonderful, and its a blast to ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lonnie cross
a Weekend Warrior
from cleveland,tennessee Date Reviewed: January 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
tsali
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
absolutely nothing
Similar Products Used:
trek 850, trek 8700, trek 7000, gary fisher joshua, moots yyb, klein attitude
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
the bottom line is this is the most fun bike i've ever ridden. it's fast, agile, and very well built. for the money you can not do better. i've ridden much more expensive bike but none of them compare when it comes to the fun factor. and thats what counts to me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a Cross Country Rider
from PA Date Reviewed: January 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Stiff,light,strong,warranty
Weaknesses:
I had some problems shifting.The chain would get jammed between the cs and crank.. switched to xt fd and solved the problem.
Similar Products Used:
cannondale F1000,Independent fabrications
Bike Setup:
mostly stock except XT fd, tires, bar ends
Bottom Line:
This is a bike you can take to the trails and races for years to come thanks to the gussets. I would recommend this bike to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Esteban
a Weekend Warrior
from Suwanee, GA Date Reviewed: December 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mtn
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great climber. Light. Very good value.
Weaknesses:
Tires aren't the greatest.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F1000
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
I have not found a better bike for the price. The quality is exceptional and if I had to do it all over again - I would choose the Trek 8000.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JC Marler
a Weekend Warrior
from Kaysville, Utah Date Reviewed: December 21, 1999
Sometimes the rider. First bike with front shock and a little less impressed than I was expecting. Probably just me.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Sedona (8 yrs)
Bike Setup:
Stock 19.5 frame.
Bottom Line:
Love this bike. A little concerned about the rims breaking and no match from factory. Bike started to squeek and have problems with shifting after 250 miles. 1st good tune up cured all problems. Have over 500 miles now and can,t find too much to complain about. I'm a 215 lb rider and ride aggressive and the 8000 keeps up w/me (or stays way out in front of me) just fine. Sad for all the 8000 riders who have forgot to tighten the front wheel or don't know how to shift and blame the bike. Great value for $999.99. Thanks to The Bike Shoppe in Ogden Ut. for great customer service too. Score...5 hot chillys!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill D
a Weekend Warrior
from Lake Orion, MI Date Reviewed: December 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Stoney creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame rims brakes
Weaknesses:
Tires (took a while to get use to)
Similar Products Used:
trek 930
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Bought this bike in Feb. and have had nothing but good times and rides with it. The tires took some getting use to, a couple of spills in the process, but once I knew them, they were fast! This bike only got better for 2000 with the Rolf rims, a little bit more pricey, but this frame is a winner. I am 185lbs right now, and it held up like a champ. Can't go wrong with this frame, of this bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Mondano
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bedminster, NJ Date Reviewed: December 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Everything on this bike is excellent,I have a trek 7000 and it is not comparable
Weaknesses:
pedals,rider,rims
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000 owned and willing to sell or trade for a huffy
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
good bike if you can afford it....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MIKE REIMER
a Cross-Country Rider
from SAN BERNARDINO, CA Date Reviewed: December 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
SNOW SUMMIT(ALL)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
BOMB-PROOF FRAME. I AM 5-10 & 190 IBS.GOOD MIX OF PARTS.
Weaknesses:
LX REAR HUB MIGHT BE A FUTURE PROBLEM. BUT RIGHT NOW IT IS NO PROBLEM.
Similar Products Used:
EVERYTHING IN THE SAME PRICE RANGE
Bike Setup:
STOCK
Bottom Line:
THE ABSOLUTE BEST BUY FOR THE MONEY. ONE THING THAT I HAVE NOTICED IS THAT I LOVE THE AVID BRAKES. MAYBE THEY SHOULD HAVE PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT STRENGTH TEST PRODUCTS, TO GET A BETTER PICTURE THAN JUST 115 LB. RACERS.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brad
a Cross-Country Rider
from Woodbridge VA Date Reviewed: December 14, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
everything
Bottom Line:
i was riding some trail one day when my front wheel popped out and the bike flipped over me while i hit my head on a rock. the frame was totaled, everything else was crap to begin with so i had trouble selling them. def. not worth the money. do not buy this bike
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Bowman
a Weekend Warrior
from Laramie, Wyoming Date Reviewed: November 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
N/A
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light frame, looks good, sticks to the trail.
Weaknesses:
i prefer upswept handlebars, but the straight bar is a fine ride.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stump-Jumper
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
If you want a good, solid bike for a decent price. You get alot of quality parts for your money, plus a super light, strong frame.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doc Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: November 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Chiva Falls
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Sweet ass wheels Bad ass crank light, quick, responsive great climber like the tires
Weaknesses:
Frame felt a little shortfor me (had to add a longer stem)
Similar Products Used:
Klein Attitude Comp bunch o' Cannondales M2 stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
stock with bar ends, longer stem
Bottom Line:
I looked and looked and thought and thought, then impulse purchased! But as it turned out I'm totally psyched with the bike. For the money, I don't think there is a better deal... It climbs great, feels real light and is one of those bikes that makes you feel real secure even when your totally outa control. I'll probably put a seat post shock on it sometime. Love the wheels, love the bike what more is there!!! I'll rate it lower once I've crashed on it, but for now it's a big five-0 b-i-t-c-h-!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Psycho Bill
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: November 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything on the north shore!
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The Rolf Wheels are amazing! Judy Race forks, Icon crank is strong, stiff and looks cool. Good shimano and icon parts throughout! Great climber!
Weaknesses:
Good do with better shifters and levers. Needs a riser bar to be enjoyed the fullest.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized m-2 works Rocky Mountain Hammer race Oryx equipe 4000
Bike Setup:
I rode a rocky nountain frame before with a bomber and LX
Bottom Line:
An awesome bike. Great icon parts. The Rolf Wheels lived up to expectations. The trek aluminum frame feels good and looks great too. Paying a little extra for the name paid off and so farno problems. Buy this bike!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Beyerstedt
a Cross-Country Rider
from Jackson,MI Date Reviewed: November 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
POTO
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Weight Looks Value
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6500
Bike Setup:
Stock y2k model with Judy race and Rolf Satelites
Bottom Line:
A great preforming bike that can be raced right out of the shop. 3 lbs lighter than my 6500. Very nimble and the new geometry helps on climbs too.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russell
a Weekend Warrior
from baton Rouge,La Date Reviewed: November 7, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
full XT components, Rolf wheels, judy race
Bottom Line:
I am posting this in regards to my last review,this bike is great! Every time I ride it I like it more. This bike is so easy to upgrade also. Every component I have added to the bike has done nothing but complement it. Hats off to Trek, if I could give it 10 flaming chilies I would.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Racer
from WEstwood Date Reviewed: November 1, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
rigid
Weaknesses:
it cracks
Similar Products Used:
Litespeed tellico
Bottom Line:
i have a 8000 and i cracke the damn fram in two places but that's not the saddest thing i only way 115lbs and am 5'3 i have been riding my boss's tellico and LITESPEEDS rule two chillis caz it was good while it lasted
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hacker
a Cross-Country Rider
from Blacksburg Date Reviewed: October 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything on Brush Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Stiff Chainstays Handling
Weaknesses:
Shimano 9 speed drivetrain
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper Various Cannondale
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Bought the bike from East Coasters in Blacksburg -- great service and knowledgeable staff. Go Hokies! The 8000 is about as good as anything at this price point. Great climber and forgiving handler. Unlike some others, I like the Avid 20 brakes. Just set the cable on the brake levers to low effort and the rig will stop on a dime. Great traction from Bontrager tires so long as I have proper inflation pressures. Rockshox Judy Race 80mm travel fork soaks up rocks and roots reasonably well -- at 3.8 pounds, not the lightest. Will post further impressions in the Spring when I've had the bike long enough to really tell. So far, so good.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russell
a Weekend Warrior
from Baton Rouge,La Date Reviewed: October 17, 1999
Great value,great bike to race,I would recommend it to anyone looking for a new high performance bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay Herman
a Cross-Country Rider
from McHenry,IL Date Reviewed: October 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
John Muir (Kettle Morraine)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame XT R. Derailleur 2000 model year corrections. Superlignt Rolf wheels
Weaknesses:
Had to go with a longer lower Stem. Seat
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Celerity Trek 830 Antelope
Bike Setup:
xt rear lx front RockShock Judy Race Shock
Bottom Line:
I purchased this from Trek's factory store in Madison WI. Excellent staff helped me make the choice that I'm glad I made. I'm new to Racing and I've done a few endovers and falls and the bike just keeps going. It does climb very well as others have stated and its fast.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nigel
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ontario Date Reviewed: October 4, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
light frame climbs like a goat confident down hill well equiped life time warranty on the frame... very sweet bike
Weaknesses:
Rolf rear hub does not fit on minoura ergo trainer...
Similar Products Used:
rocky oxygen-race
Bike Setup:
stock...lx-tx and judy race
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for this price range..challenging bikes that are more expensive...I ride different trails and this bike has done well in all conditions. I am looking forward to racing this puppy next year. I wanted to buy Canadian but this bike won out...rocky frame is 5 year warranty..Trek is life time...and better equiped than the oxygen-race. I would recommend this bike to friends
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Austin
a Cross-Country Rider
from FlowerMound, TX Date Reviewed: October 2, 1999
Brakes(they work, but feel a little loose)Rear Wheel(Went out of True quickly) Pedals(clip out at inconveinient times) Icon Chainrings Stem is a little too high
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Factory Set-up Without the Reflectors!
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to a review I did in August. Well, after several great off-road experiences with the 8000, I have made my decision:This bike rocks! Aside from my minor gripes, I really enjoy this bike. All those weaknesses can be adjusted with a little time, I just haven't gotten around to it. The frame is a work of art! It is so responsive and so fast, it blows my mind. The Manitou SX up front does a great job of absorbing the jolts, just need softer MCU's in mine. The tires and great for racing and all-around riding, they track great. Just when I thought I was going to loose traction, they hook up again----Great tires. Overall, I think this bike just rocks. If you want an affordable(got mine for $930), race ready hardtail with a team paint job, nice components, and a Trek name on it, look no further than the TREK 8000! The only way for you to find out is to experience the Trek for yourself. Nothing is perfect, but the Trek 8000 is damn near it. 5 Stars for me
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston Date Reviewed: September 27, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Trek Customer Service
Similar Products Used:
Many Many Treks
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to the letter I wrote on July 30th (see below). This letter was forwarded to every available e-mail listed on their company site. I have yet to hear any response at all. I guess Trek is too busy working on their problems.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Henrik
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denmark Date Reviewed: September 20, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
XT rear Fork brakes
Weaknesses:
LX front Bontrager tires Icon stem and seatpost Icon chainrings Bontrager front wheel
Similar Products Used:
GT avalanche Gary Fisher Big Sur
Bike Setup:
Manitou SXti Syncros Stem Thompson Elite Seatpost Michelin Wildgripper tires. Giro Fizik saddel. XTR v-brakes Gore cables
Bottom Line:
The Trek 8000 is a great bike, with some weaknesses. The first thing that happened when i brought the bike, was that the paint on the Manitou SX fork faild of. So i got a Manitou SXti fork a the bikestore. I have replaced almost everything on the bike, so its much cooler now. But it was also cool before.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
homey
a Cross-Country Rider
from houston Date Reviewed: September 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
rocky hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
bike loves to climb
Weaknesses:
pedals front chain rings
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher marlin
Bike Setup:
stock..took off bar mounts.renthal grips
Bottom Line:
so far...so good..this bike has been very dependable so far.i love the way it climbs but it rides a little harsh on fast rocky sections. the front manitou fork bottoms easily and it flexs to much...this bike creaks like a 50 yr old stair case. no cracks yet..thank god...im just listing its faults but overall a great bike.......4 hot ones.....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: September 18, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I reviewed this bike on Aug. 22nd, but something happened between then and now that Trek riders should know about. I was on the fifth ride on my new 8000, and I was crossing a creek bed on one of my favorite trails. A trail I have ridden many times before on my other Treks. I heard a loud bang and got off my bike to see what caused it. To my surprise, my rear rim was dented, and the entire wheel was tweaked to the point that I couldn't ride the bike. There was also the hissing sound of the rear tire going flat. I was not riding fast or hard. I don't. I'm 40 years old fer cryin' out loud. Imagine my surprise when I took the bike in to the LBS only to be told that the pretty red Bontrager rims that come with the bike new cannot be replaced. The factory only ships these rims with new bikes. They do not have any back stock. So now I have a black rim on the rear that doesn't match the red front rim. Not only that, but Trek won't pay. This bike is barely a month old with limited miles and is still well under warranty, Trek is apparently blaming me for the damage. I was NOT riding hard or fast. It was not my fault. I've been riding since 1982 and have had at least 6 Treks in that time, and I've never had a problem like this before. Trek did offer to send me a t-shirt, but nothing more. I would still reccomend this bike to any rider, but you should be aware that if anything happens to those pretty red rims that looked so good in the bike shop, you will be out of luck in getting replacement rims or having Trek honor their warranty. 4 steaming chiles instead of 5.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from Augusta, Georgia Date Reviewed: September 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
power lines
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great Value $950, Great componets and wonder and cool looking lightweight rims, rides well not to rough for hardtail
Weaknesses:
rapidfire seat pedals re1's not an attention getter ok bike overall not in love with it though new 9 spd is qwerky on ghost shifting at the worst time
Similar Products Used:
Univega 950 Trek 850&950 Klein Attitude Comp
Bike Setup:
Manitou FSti all xt and 747 pedals
Bottom Line:
Great value and good looking bike. Rides well and always gets you to the end of the trail. If you want flash and people to look at you, go with a FS or the GaryFisher Xcaliber. That is what I wish I had purchased
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alfrington Jummock
a Racer
from NYC Date Reviewed: September 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Rooftops & sewers
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Brake cables, nice color bar grips, sexy spokes,
Weaknesses:
Won't fly, won't float, won't cook, won't wash up and it rejects my sexual advances
Similar Products Used:
Microwaves, trolley-jacks, Remington Fuz-Away, a pack of do-nuts, a custom-built ironing board, an inflatable dinghy, a stapler with matching hole-punch, a dead cat and a yellow rubber glove.
Bike Setup:
Bears? What bears? I've never shot a bear in my life AND I HAVE EVIDENCE TO BACK THAT STATEMENT UP! Onions, Post-Its, a 10-gallon hat and a pack of 'Nude Lady' playing cards.
Bottom Line:
Out of the gate and the sky turned black. I fired it up and started to cut the hedge with a might reserved only for cooking whole pigs with a Bic lighter. As my spine rotated in the direction of the smell of God, the rattles soothed my cream-filled eyes. After seeing the future from the top of land-fill site, I came to rest with a loud 'Weeeeeeaaaaaaggggggghhhhh!!!' and I slowly realised the truth. 17 per cent.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joey ryder
a Weekend Warrior
from seattle, wa Date Reviewed: September 3, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE IS ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE- I WAS RIDING IT ONE TIME AND ALL OF A SUDDEN, I CHANGED GEARS IN THE FD AND THE CHAIN GOT STUCK, LAUNCHING ME INTO A TREE. THE FRAME GOT ALL BENT UP AND THE FORK IS PRACTICALLY USELESS NOW. I HOPE I WAS THE ONLY ONE THIS HAPPENED TO!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nav
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, ON Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Dagmar
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Frame, stiffness and geo Manitou SX XT rear Avid Brakes
Weaknesses:
Bontrager RE-1 Pedals Creaky LX Front
Similar Products Used:
Specialized M2 Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Well, this site was key to my decision to purchase this bike, so I feel I owe anyone else looking into it. First off, though I'm somewhat new to the sport, this frame rocks. It's so stiff, it feels like you can climb anything as long as both wheels stick to the ground. The downside to this, of course, is that the ride can be a little unforgiving. No biggie though. The SX is plently plush. (Perhaps a little too much - bottomed out a few times too many.) The components the bike is spec'd with are great, except maybe the LX front which is fidgety and requires constant adjustment. Even though I was skeptical, the brakes are great when adjusted correctly and the XT rear derailleur works in the worst of conditions.As for the bad, there is the annoying fact that this bike is creaky. The bb, shock and perhaps cranks seem to be constantly making noise. Not a big deal, but a silent ride would be nice. Speaking of the bb, there's no reason Trek should have put a UN-52 on this bike - it's way too heavy, especially on a bike with a sub 3 1/2 pound frame - what's the point of that? Next to go will be the pedals, which have an inconsistent release and clip-in tension. Buying Time carbons as soon as I can afford them. Overall, though this seems to be the best in its class. If you can, spend a little more for the M2 comp and its XTR and XT stuff. If not, buy this bike!! It whips through the singletrack as if on rails, is light and manouverable, and is excellent value for money. Great for the newbie with a bit of cash, or for the experienced rider with not quite enough. The frame is worth upgrading, so why not? Five million flaming chillies!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trek Man
a Racer
from Idaho Date Reviewed: August 27, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Fork Frame Geometry Paint
Weaknesses:
9 gear stuff too fast for me!
Similar Products Used:
Rockhopper Klein Gt Cannondale
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for the money. I would reccomend it to anyone who's getting a new bike. When I first sat on it, I knew I was going to buy it. I haven't found a lot of weaknesses. I will come back later. I would give this bike 6 flamin' horeses but 5's all I can.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeremy molligan
a Cross-Country Rider
from newark DE Date Reviewed: August 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
lenepe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
pro level frame good fork nice shifting lightweight blinding acceleration good control nice conering good stabability
Weaknesses:
44 tooth big ring
Similar Products Used:
raleigh M55 (I've reviewed this one too.) custom built stumpjumer gt avolanche diamondback
I purhchased this bike for $999.99 and it has already paid off. The frame is the same frame that they use of their pro model. It has a nice share of shimano components, mixed in with some icon, and some bontrager. The bike ways under 23 pounds, which most bikes start at $3000 weigh this much. My only complaints are all of the decals. There are so many decals, it almost repels me. The frame also looks like I'm going to break it. Even though it feels totally different, the apperance of it make it look fragile. And the 44 tooth big chain ring makes a long pull on the shifter, from the small ring to the middle ring. Yet, if your looking to buy a bike get the year 2000 model, because it comes with a rear rolf wheel with their paired spoke design. It also has black icon parts, which look better. But, overall this bike is probably one of the best bikes you can get for around $1000. Take my advice and get this bike. Don't listen to all thoes other people talking about the bad frame. If the frame was that bad they wouldn't put it on their pro model.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: August 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Big Laguna
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Lightweight Awesome colors Fast and nimble
Weaknesses:
Pedals Bar ends Brakes
Similar Products Used:
Bikes in $1,000 range: Schwinn Kona Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock except for pedals
Bottom Line:
My last bike was a Trek 930 steel frame x-country. The Trek 8000 is much faster, lighter and climbs like a jet fighter. This bike is great for twisty-turney singletrack. I switched out the Bontrager pedals for Richey Comps. The frame does creak some. I was dissapointed in reading about all the frame problems other riders were having. I hope mine doesn't crack. I'll try and keep it on the ground. This bike is not meant for big air or downhill. This bike is not forgiving on rocks or washboard. Could use a suspension seatpost (my next purchase). The brakes are good, but not great. The bar ends are too fat, but I'll go to a riser bar without bar ends. I researched many bikes and I felt the Trek 8000 was the best bike for its price range. I'm very happy with my Trek 8000.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jones
a Cross-Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: August 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lightweight Stiff Great stock components
Weaknesses:
Brakepads (big deal) Tires wear fast
Bike Setup:
Manitou SX LX/XT Avid 1.9
Bottom Line:
I still love riding the beast like the first day I bought it. Its light,responsive, and climbs like a S.O.B. Straight up anything. The only problem I've had with it has been a few recurring flat tires at first. Although, I'm not convinced the tubes weren't all pinched by the bike shop that installed them (3 times). All and all, a kick-ass bike for the money. Spend the extra couple bucks and step above the 7000/big-sur/rock hopper class and buy a 8000.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dain Trittau
a Racer
from Lombard, IL Date Reviewed: August 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Kettle Moraine State Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Good bike to add upgrades to as needed
Weaknesses:
Original parts to come with frame didn't last very long; too much flex in the frame; cracked the frame after only 2 years of use and Trek refused to back up their lifetime warranty. Was given the run around when dealing with a Trek representative.
Similar Products Used:
At the time I had this Trek, I had only owned a Schwinn before this.
Bike Setup:
I had a Trek 8000 with a rock shock suspension fork. Added upgrades as needed.
Bottom Line:
When I first bought this bike, I really liked it. I got tired of the original parts wearing out on it, which wasn't Trek's fault directly. I was very happy to be able to upgrade all the parts as I needed to. I started enjoying the bike itself as I began upgrading my parts and became a better rider because of this. It wasn't until my frame cracked that I began feeling disappointed in Trek. I approached the original store in which I purchased this Trek, only to be given the run around from the owner, then couldn't manage to deal with a Trek rep to have the bike fixed under warranty. They eventually refused to fix it, and I was mad enough to buy a Santa Cruz frame, and now will never go back. Trek is a good entry level bike for those beginning to mountain bike; as it is good for experimenting and adding upgrades.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesse Lowe
a Racer
from freeport ME Date Reviewed: August 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
light aluminum frame fast stable color
Weaknesses:
a little creaking
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose Iboc zero -g Giant Tcm carbon
Bike Setup:
sl Xt +xtr Drivetrain mavic 236 rims 99 judy xc 97 ritchy pedald control tec seat post specialized a1 bar ends
Bottom Line:
very fast bike, responsive.no problems yet
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Cicco
a Weekend Warrior
from Marietta, Ga Date Reviewed: August 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great lightweight frame Above average front/rear dr's Great climbing and fast downhill ride Icon crankset and cool Trek racing blue Great deal for the money Great Manitou SX shock
Weaknesses:
Bar ends are a little cumbersome Saddle is of average quality
Great value for around $850 to $1000 price range. TheTtrek 8500 and 8900 have the same frame but are considerably higher in price ( disc brakes, XTR dr's). I would reccomend the Trek 800o to anyone who want's an entry level to competitive bike. This is more on the competitive side but the extra money spent is well worth it!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Tedesco
a Weekend Warrior
from Nanticoke, PA Date Reviewed: August 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Seven Tubs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lightweight Front Shock LX / XT Drivetrain Rims Durability
Weaknesses:
Stiff seat
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
Factory settings
Bottom Line:
I have really put this bike through it's paces. I use the bike for twenty mile technical rides on the weekends. It has never let me down. So far I had two major crashes and the bike is solid. The rims are still as true as when I bought it. I am going to add a suspension seat post to it to give me a little cushion in the back. Right now it is very uncomfortable riding on rocky terrain. Every rock throws the seat at me. I have no other complaints other than the lack of a suspension seatpost.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
blackwell
a Weekend Warrior
from spokane, wa Date Reviewed: August 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the one from recliner to fridge
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
best bike ever made
Weaknesses:
you have to pedal,and that requires work.
Similar Products Used:
huffy nightstalker,bush pilot,magn fugitive,murry ten speed,once i stole a tricycle from a kid at gun point.
Bike Setup:
the cheapest stuff i could find
Bottom Line:
all the bikes ive ridden pale severly in comparison to the trek 8000.i wish i had some money so i could buy one.i need to stop spending all my cash on beer and prostitutes
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Austin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Dallas, Texas Date Reviewed: August 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame Fork Color Drivetrain Pedals Everything!
Weaknesses:
Still have to break in my fork and cleats but other than that...nothing
Similar Products Used:
Trek 800 Rigid, if you can count that as similar
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I just picked up my brand new Trek 8000 SL yesterday and I love it! I can't get over how fast it is, I mean just tap the pedals and ZIPP! Very nice frame, I really like the paint job. Mine is Team blue with red rims, very cool looking! I can't wait to take it to some serious off-road riding! This is my very first hardtail, before I was on a Rigid Trek 800, it felt like a tank compared to this jet aircraft! So far so good, I will make a review again later on when I can test it a little more. Overall, five flammin' dead horsies!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Anderson
a Racer
from Moncton, NB Date Reviewed: August 2, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
lots of bike without lots of money.
Weaknesses:
creaky everything! weak wheels crappy pedals stem way too high 9 speed sh*t
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
softer springs in fork speedplay pedals
Bottom Line:
Although I thought I was buying a great bike, I was wrong. I had problems from the get go. My wheels had to be relaced almost immediatly, the tension was way off. My middle ring chipped for no apparent reason. My pedals broke, that's why I bought Speedplays. My fork leaks if I leave it upside down for too long, I thought TPC was supposed to be leak proof. My cranks are ill fitting on the BB axle and had to shimed with pepsi cans. And, of course, the 9 speed stuff doesn't work at all. Other than these problems the bike is good. I hope a Trek representative reads this and fixes the problems.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston Date Reviewed: July 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
'Nam in MA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good ride while it is in one piece
Weaknesses:
Frame needs reinforcement on chainstay
Similar Products Used:
The same exact product many times
Bike Setup:
Stock parts
Bottom Line:
Here is the whole story(this letter was e-mailed to all Trek depts. last week....no reply yet):Dear Trek Bicycles:I am taking the time to write this letter to inform you about some quality issues I have discovered in your frame making process. My first mountain bike was a 1995 Trek 850 (Steel). I rode this bike and had tons of fun with it until the frame broke in May 1998. The frame broke on the rear weld of the chainstay. 4 years seems pretty reasonable considering what the bike went through in that time. Unfortunately my experience gets worse. When the frame was warranted I decided to upgrade to a better frame and bike. I ended up getting a 1998 Trek 8000SL . I was told by a Trek rep that was in International Bicycle Center in Newton, MA (very big Trek dealer) that this bike was “Bomb-Proof”. 600 miles later this was not the case…..the frame broke at the weld between the chainstay and the bottom bracket and I had to walk 3 miles out. After 600 miles of trails on this bike I had developed a relationship with this bike so this was a sad day. I did not want to go long without a bike so I immediately called International Bicycle Center in Brighton, MA and they had a 1998 19.5” 8500 frame in stock (lucky me). This time when I started riding my new frame I was not gleaming with confidence. Especially after the sales person told me they have seen many broken Al Treks. Riding this frame was scary because I was nervous it was going to break at a bad time. 250 miles later the frame cracked in the same exact spot!!!! That evening I went into Bay Road Bikes in South Hamilton, MA. Aaron (Co-owner) took the time to listen to my story and calm me down. I told him I would never get on a Trek again in my life. Because of the cost of not using the warrantee…I was forced to get another Trek! I should have this in Wed. July 28th. Hitting the trail with this frame I am sure there will be no “warm fuzzy feeling”. Being the trail with this bike will just be a trial of when it breaks. I ride with several groups in the Boston area (www.nemba.org and www.ragemtb.com ) and many people know my story. Many of these people want to know why these frames keep breaking. One thing I did notice on several other Al frames (Cannondale, Gary Fisher…etc) is that they all have a reinforcement bar in the bottom of the triangles (inside chainstay). This letter will be published to all my local riding groups and to any relevant sites on the internet (www.mtbr.com). Any feedback I receive from Trek will be published and addended to my postings. If there is no response…that will also be posted. My friends and I would like to know why we should consider/continue to ride Trek bikes.I feel 2 weeks is a reasonable time to allow to hear back from you in regards to this matter. Michael J. Duval 1 Andrews Road Topsfield, MA 01983 Mduval@alphaind.com
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a Weekend Warrior
from Gibbsboro, NJ Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Best deal around Race ready Loves to jump Looks great The fork Pedals
Weaknesses:
Tires are only good for racing Chainrings don't shift as well as shimano The bike is stiff Those ugly bar ends
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper Rockhopper Trek carbon
Bike Setup:
Riser bar and stiffer springs in the fork
Bottom Line:
This bike is the best deal i've seen around this price point. I swapped out the bar ends right away and got a riser bar after riding the bike a month. The bike fits perfectly and performs great. Did I mention how good it looks. Details include red rims with black spokes and hubs, and red seat rails. Also the fork is amazing. The travel is very controlled and you can set up the fork to suit every riding style. Problems: The tires don't corner very well and are only good for racing. Also the front wheel is radial laced and doesn't feel strong enough for serious jumping. Last problem is the chainrings. They don't seem up to par with shimano. Overall the bike is an amazing deal and I love mountain biking more for it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Racer
from spokane wa Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
riverside
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
everything about this bike is better than my piece of s*it big sur
Weaknesses:
it is parked next to my big sur
Similar Products Used:
big sur,huffy mountaineer,magna fugitive,iron horse maverick,murry.huffy nightstalker,
Bike Setup:
stock......evrything is better than my fisher
Bottom Line:
my fisher pales in comparison to evrything that the trek has to offer.i dont know why i screwed up and bought that big sur.i need to stop bragging about the quality of my fisher and face the facts that the trek is the best bike ever made.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from spokane, wa Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
light frame,bontrager pedals,manitou sx,paint job
Weaknesses:
creaks
Similar Products Used:
spec rockhopper,gf big sur,trek y-11,trek8900,magna fugitive
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
im not a fanatic, i dont give a s*it if the the brakes stop 3 inches farther down the trail.its a good bike for those who dont bi*ch about stupid s*it, like chris neel
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Victor
a Cross-Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: July 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
PHX S. Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Value, value, value Geometry fits me perfectly Lightweight Climbs well Not way stiff
Weaknesses:
Some creaking...been back to the LBS twice and still no fix
Brakes upgraded to XT V Ditched the Bontrager pedals for my trusty Shimano 747s
Bottom Line:
I scored this bike from my LBS for $899 and it is an awesome rig. The LBS upgraded the Avid brakes to full XT V for an additional $65. This bike handles great and climbs superbly. The LX/XT mix works flawlessly and meets the needs of agressive-enthusiast yet non-racer types. The Manitou SX is less trouble prone and more supple than my old R/S Mag. Personally, I like the Bontrager Revolt tires although they've received mixed reviews elsewhere. They hook up in the desert terrain really well. I originally thought I'd buy a Gary Fisher Genesis frame bike but after riding several models/sizes I didn't feel like I could ride them fast. As soon as I got on the 8000 I knew this is a bike I can point and shoot anywhere. I find the SL Aluminum frame less harsh than the 6 yr old Trek 7000 I've been riding for years now (still a decent bike). The 8000 is lightweight, climbs great, and is controllable on the downhills. I'm a better rider with this bike. A great ride overall.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R. MacLeod
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sidney, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: July 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Hartland Dump, Victoria
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
I've had this bike for over six months and I've put it through some harsh rides yet it continues to look and run excellent. The stiff frame is a bonus when cornering and accelerating. I found the ICON parts to have a solid feel that's a bonus when on single-track.
Weaknesses:
Tires! I have no confidence in them when in loose dirt. The paint seems to chip easier than most bikes I've owned.
Similar Products Used:
KONA- Various models Norco- Various models
Bike Setup:
19.5 frame
Bottom Line:
It is an excellent bike, especially for the money. It's the type of bike I trust not to break when deep in the woods somewhere. The only thing that I suggest to change is the tires.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gcromo
a Cross-Country Rider
from P-town Ca. Date Reviewed: July 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Boat Races-DaBumps
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
weight,fit,components,and a racy look
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Klein Attitude, Stumpjumper, 8500, GT Avalanche
Bike Setup:
As ridden out of the shop.
Bottom Line:
I like the bike for it's climbing ability. Since I've been riding a fully ridgid steel bike for 10 years, I was shocked by two things. First, by how great it took off up hill, and second how seriously stiff the back of the bike feels. It pounded my rear and lower back on the first descent. Maybe a good imiedite upgrade would be a sus. seatpoast. Great deal from TREK.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
downfx
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bismarck, ND Date Reviewed: June 26, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The frame is excellent and the paint scheme is also pretty nice,
Weaknesses:
The brackes, the brakes and the brakes.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Specialized Cannondale All these bikes were in the $1000-1400 range.
Bike Setup:
Manitou SX-R Brakes and shifters upgraded to XTR, front derailer upgraded to XT, The rest of the bike is stock.
Bottom Line:
I payed 999 for the sctock product and placed 250 in upgrades which were well worth it. The frame very ridgid and it can make any climb or descent a breeze. Treck has a good product for a very competative price. Even with the upgrades I came under the Specialized Stumpy Comp which was my next choice. The Treck also has a much better paint job as far as fit and finnish.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ludes
a Cross-Country Rider
from MN Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Afton
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great Frame- Great climing bike mine looks better because i got the pearl white,red, black decals sweet wheels
Weaknesses:
Shock-could be better LX s*it brakes bite after 1 ride some of the icon stuff is week stem handle bars seatpast Tires are expensive but when they come down to the trails they suck!!!!!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
7000 stump jumper
Bike Setup:
XT Shifter lever combo XT brakes and front drailier RACEFACE stem Easton c2 handle bars and seat post A reaal sweet manitou SX Carbon fork i bought off this sight oh yeh some real sweet continentaltires
Bottom Line:
I wouldnt have been able to afford all these changes if i didnt work at a bike shop for the average rider this bike kicks ass for the money -if i didnt change a thing i would still love it but i would still change the tired
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adam t
a Racer
from n canton oh Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
super light frame
Weaknesses:
Mantiou fork brakes
Similar Products Used:
trek 6000 cannondale f1000
Bike Setup:
stock except for rockshox sidxc
Bottom Line:
this bike is so sweet! Once i replaced the fork, this bike became the perfect part time race bike. It climbs awesome, and handles tight singletrack very well.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leo
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego Date Reviewed: June 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Some where off of Black mountain road.
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Valllllluuuuue!!!!
Weaknesses:
Decals are falling off but who cares.
Similar Products Used:
Giant,GF,other treks and specialized.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for seat.Got a softer specialized seat.
Bottom Line:
I am fat 220 lbs 5'8. If I run a half a block I see stars and need oxegen. NO JOKE :(I had this bike for 2 days and had three rides. One nite ride 7 miles lots of hills on the street.Second was short 5 miles on a a trail that had creed beds with softball size rocks, sand and trees that slap your face. could not go to fast. Third was a 2 1/2 hour 11.9 miles of fun Hell. 4 creek beds one had 8 inches of water, hill that were so steep that when you used your brakes you slid down so you might as well let it go and hang on( have a good helmet and gloves ). And of course you have to go up hill too. Trust me when I say that was hard but I only walked up a few. And some times there was no trail at all but long weed that slapped your legs and some times your face. It was fun and it's all due to my trek 8000 which made it easy, most of the time. A friend I went with has a $2000 bike and it does ride a little better but not 1k better.Buy this bike. I did lots of research on the net and at stores, it's worth it. Let me save you some time. If you have 2k then buy a full suspention. If not this is the bike.Thanx for your time, Leo 5*****
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Goodview,Va Date Reviewed: June 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Carvins Cove
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great bike for 1100.00 and ready to race right out of the box. Tough frame and I am 240lbs and see no problem. The Icon components are very good regardless of what some have posted in their reviews. Nice brakes for a bike of the price level. Nice color paint compared to some bikes I looked at and great effort went into the details. Also love the big Fatty Magee bar ends which fit my hands allot better.
Weaknesses:
Could have put the higher end Icon parts on the bike but for 1100.00 you have to be realistic.
Similar Products Used:
Fisher, Schwinn, Raleigh, GT, Kona, and Specialized.
Bike Setup:
I had the bike built with XT Front/XTR rear drive, XT BB, Specialized body geometry seat, Chris King headset, and changed all the silver Icon out to the higher grade and lighter Icon parts as in the OZ seat post, Ernie handle bars, and Durante stem and I also changed the Fatty Magee bar ends to the dark XTR color so it would match the rest of the component upgrades. Also installed two Specialized water bottle holders which I like more than the standard aluminum cages.
Bottom Line:
I purchased this bike after riding so many different brands of bikes that my butt felt like it had been on a 100 mile ride. This bike looks great and rides better than anything else I rode. I still plan to have a custom set of wheels built and will change the brakes to the Avid 50's or arch supremes because I think they have it all over the XTR brakes as far as design and support. I also might change the shifters to XTR but not sure if that will make that big of a difference. If you are a big man by the way like me, (6' 2 1/2 240lbs)I would at least upgrade the BB to an XT as it will only add about 10.00 to the price of the bike at most bike shops. Enough said, it's time to go ride!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony Borges
a Cross-Country Rider
from Simcoe Ontario Date Reviewed: June 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Turkey Point
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Awesomely Light, great value and looks super cool!
Weaknesses:
I am going to have to agree with buddy up the page, It looks so good everyone wants to steal it.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Giant
Bike Setup:
Stock except Time Pedals, CatEye cordless computer and lizard skin gaurds
Bottom Line:
What can I say, It's My Baby. The thing is really responsive and fast, easy to manuever and perfect to race. Did I mention light?!? Definately a great value for the money!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ERIC
a Racer
from INGLESIDE,IL Date Reviewed: May 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
KETTLE
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
SWEET U.S. BUILT FRAME SOLID FORK GREAT VALUE ITS A TREK
Weaknesses:
FORK SOFT FOR HARDER/HEAVIER RIDERS DECAL OVERKILL CRANK ARMS
Similar Products Used:
SCHWINN HIGH SIERRA PARAMOUNT 20 AND 90 SERIES
Bike Setup:
KOOKA CRANKS W/SYNROS B.B. ROLF DOLOMITE WHEELSET KORE STEM &SEATPOST W.TITEC BAR '99 XT BRAKESET W/REAL X-LEVERS PLASMA SHIFTERS AND REAR DERAILLEUR
Bottom Line:
1000 BUCKS FOR A RACE READY BIKE WITH AN LX/XT DRIVETRAIN, A KILLER U.S. BUILT FRAME AND A SOLID MANITOU SX FORK. OH YEAH, THEN THERE ARE THE BONTAGER CLIPLESS PEDDLES, KEVLAR TIRES, ICON STEM &SEATPOST....WHAT A VALUE. I RACED IT STOCK OUT OF THE BOX AND IT PERFORMED PAR TO MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE RIDES. GEOMETRY PROVED QUICK IN THE SINGLETRACK AND CLIMBED WITH EASE. AVID BRAKES ADEQUITE AT BEST THOUGH. THE REST OF THE DRIVETRAIN PERFORMED WITH FEW GLITCHES. THE RIGHT ICON CRANK ARM STRIPPED OUT AT THE PEDDLE TWO MILES INTO MY FIRST RIDE. FRIENDS AT ANOTHER SHOP WITNESSED TWO OTHER ACCURANCES DUE TO THE PEDDLE HOLE NOT BEING BORED HORIZONTALLY, BUT AT A SLIGHT ANGLE. BUMMER, THE CRANKS LOOK SWEET. I'VE UPGRADED THE FRAME NUMEROUS TIMES AND NOW IT IS A ALL OUT RACE MACHINE HITTING THE SCALES AT 23 POUNDS FOR A 21 INCH BIKE. BUT WHY NOT, THE U.S. MADE FRAME IS STRONG, LIGHT AND THE WELDS AND CONSTRUCTION IS PAR TO THAT OF CUSTOM BUILDERS. WHATS WITH ALL THE DECALS THOUGH? THEY ARE ALL READY PULLING UP FROM UNDER THE CLEAR COAT IN SOME AREAS. BOTTOM LINE-AWSOME RACE READY BIKE AT A KILLER PRICE. FRAME WORTH UPRADING AS YOUR BUDGET, AND STOCK COMPONANT GROUP CAN GET YOU TO THE PODIUM AS YOU DO SO. MADE IN WISC. AND HAS GREAT BACKING BY TREK.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maing
a Weekend Warrior
from San Mateo, Ca Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Parisma Single Track
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
The moment I got on this bike my dick got hard -- it rocks. Climbs like crazy -- very responsive.
Weaknesses:
Avid brakes could use upgrading. stopping power on a 220 # guy screaming down a 30% slope needs some serious stopping power.
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche, Proflex 856, Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike flys -- it climbs like a F-14 on afterburners, fun down hill and very quick -- thats why I bought one (plus my pro-flex got ripped off -- Thanks scum-bag!! you don't know what a favor you did me)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brakey
a Weekend Warrior
from Corner Brook , NF Date Reviewed: May 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
lady slipper
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very light and responsive.Great Suspension and Brakes.
Only thing different than stock was a Riser Bar(30 mm rise 9 degree bend)
Bottom Line:
Had the bike one day now went for a good ride. A little out -of- shape! Everything was great except falling down. Clipless pedals can kill!!! I think I need to adjust them.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Mann
a Cross-Country Rider
from New York Date Reviewed: May 16, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Ultimately light, responsive and stiff. Great components for the price.
Weaknesses:
Truthfully none.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, GT, Haro
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Great value for money. Sweet bike that will surely sweep you off your feet, give it a test ride and I assure you that you won't regret it. I still can't forget my first test ride on this baby, it was like a dream come true.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KLAM
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, ON Date Reviewed: May 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Excellent value, great frame and components, very raceable, good frame construction, great fork at this price level, baby blue Trek team colors.
Weaknesses:
Baby blue Trek team colors, ICON bar ends are too big I think.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6500, 7000, 8500, Gary Fisher Big Sur, Rocky Mountain Hammer Race, Oxygen Race
An excellent bike that comes with an excellent array of components. Included is a sweet Manitou SX 70mm TPC fork that delivers a very controlled yet forgiving ride. Compared to the Judy XC spec'd on the Big Sur and 7000, the SX is much more controlled with a greater feeling on the rebound damping and less 'comfy and plush'. The SX has great adjustability with external preload and rebound damping, internal compressoin damping, TPC, and easy MicroLube maintenance.Component wise, the 8000 is very similar to the 7000 with identical drivetrain, and slightly upgraded on other parts like the Avid 2.0, Bontrager Maverick rims, LX hubs, Bontrager RE-I pedals, and ICON bar ends. Also features Bontrager Revolt ST2 folding tires. What makes this bike a higher value is that you get all this for a little more money over the 7000. Since the bar ends are not included on the 7000, it makes it all the more worthwhile to go up and buy the 8000 if it's in your budget, because you get so much more in terms of components.The bike overall is slightly lighter than the 7000, and feels snappy and agile. Most importantly you are getting a great LX/XT equipped bike with a Manitou SX and Bontrager wheelset at a very affordable price point. It's hard to find a Manitou SX equipped bike at this price range.
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Submitted by
fruitbooter
a Weekend Warrior
from canada Date Reviewed: May 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the back yard dumpster
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
frame, good component mix
Weaknesses:
too many decals
Similar Products Used:
trek 7000 gary fisher
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this bike climbs like a mountain goat on speed!! the light frame makes for easy and fast descents, as well as all around riding. whether your out ripping up singletrack, or your out for that sunday ride with your mom, this bike kicks sh*t. always remember, you can try and pass me, but ill probably blow up your bike at the finish line....NUKE PROOF
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Seaton
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The Trek 8000 is one of the most solidly built bikes I have EVER takin' on the trail! Sure, I've tried De Vinci, Thin Blue Line, Shwinn, Wheeler, and a whole sloo of others, but Trek seems to be on the top of my list for the time being. The Manitou SX fork delivers 80mm of plush travel at a weight that won't destroy the overall bike weight, The mixture of the LX and XT components spec'd with Icon makes for an enjoyable ride. Trek's Alpha SL aluminum frame to be VERY light, and rigid; perfect for hard packed single track.....
The Trek 8000 is a solidly built bike. Great on twisty single track, and fast descents. I would recomend this bike to anyone looking for preformance on a budget, but you may want to dump those Avids for some real brakes......
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stewart
a Cross-Country Rider
from Edmond, OK Date Reviewed: May 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Lake Hefner
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
light, stiff frame, nice fork, great wheels/tires
Weaknesses:
so cool looking, people are tempted to steal it
Similar Products Used:
Trek 820, Jamis Dakar Sport, Schwinn Moab 3
Bike Setup:
100% stock
Bottom Line:
This is an incredible bike for the money. Some people don't like the Avid brakes, but mine work great. I also don't understand why everyone gives the graphics scheme flak. I think it looks factory (i.e. cool). The bikes is super light and stiff, and it climbs like a dream. My only complaint is that the silver Icon parts look cheap compared to the dark ones (but doesn't make a difference in performance).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boise Idaho Date Reviewed: May 9, 1999
One sweet ride, the paint seems to chip and flake of very easily, but that does not affect peformance. This ride is so light you can hardly tell your taking the extra 25lbs up that hill with you. For the money, in my opinion, it is the best deal on the market.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
UberCebus
a Cross-Country Rider
from Arlingotn, VA Date Reviewed: May 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
still looking...
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Awesome frame, good component mix, underpriced
Weaknesses:
Questionable paint job and over-stickerage, looking at all the welds makes you think twice. And who knows about these ICON components???
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Paragon, Specialized Stumpy Comp, Klein Attitude, and me old 98 Rockhopper.
Bike Setup:
stock- added new bar ends, likely going to switch to XT front derailleur and shifters at some point (just because).
Bottom Line:
Picked this up after much research for $1000. After a mild offroad break-in, it just ROCKS!! A quick 10-mile ride that used to be a workout, well, not much of a workout now. I trashed my Rockhopper, and wanted to get something that WOULD NOT BREAK and would get me through the more technical trails with ease. Wonderfully stiff light frame, great component selection. The Bontrager pedals are a nice plus. It comes with an LX front derailleur, which only needs replacing if you use it A LOT, as I do. The Bontrager Revolt ST-2's are good all-around tires, but if you do lots of mudwork, invest in some nice knobbies (Specialized Team or Dirt Control). I'm 210 and tall, and this frame takes all the abuse, and still accelerates like a bat, while giving a comfortable riding position. The Avid brakes will stop you quickly. The ICON crankeset seems rock solid and pretty light. Probably going to upgrade the LX front der. and shifters to XT, thought the LX seems to work OK. The Manitou SX is awesome, better than my 98 SX-R. Unless you are looking for a titanium fork or a Sid, this fork is about as good as it gets. If you want a decent racer, but don't want to fork out $1200-$1500 this is it. If I had the cash, would have looked harder at the Stumpy, but the main difference is frame & geometry. This bike is great for just about anything, especially if you are sick of your Cro-Mo frame. Did I mention the frame is sweet? With this bike, the upgrades are either cheap & reasonable(front derailleur, shifters) or the same huge price as on any sub-$2000 hardtail (Race Face cranks, ceramic wheels, XTR hubs, Arch brakes, etc.) An incredible bargain, 5 overcooked burritos says me.
$ 1099.99
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