Submitted by
ecubyrd
a Cross Country Rider
from Seoul, Korea Date Reviewed: August 3, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very stiff, yet somehow somewhat forgiving. The frame is lightweight.
Weaknesses:
I haven't had it long enough to know yet.
Similar Products Used:
An abundance of hts over the years.
Bike Setup:
8900SL frame, XT shifters and hubs, XTR derailleurs, Avid Ti levers Single 7 Digit brakes, Matitou Black Elite, Thomson post and stem, Rhyno Lite rims.
Bottom Line:
I bought this recently as a second bike (more so as a daily commuter here in Seoul). My main rig is a fs Jamis loaded with all kinds of goodies that I constantly worry about if I leave locked somewhere. The Trek will serve its function well. I bought it used and paid a very fair price considering its condition. I'm digging it so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sample. stuff
a Cross Country Rider
from vancouver, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: April 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
N. Van stuffs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
some guy
Strengths:
Lightweight as fcuk, stiff enough, flexy enough to make the ride suck less, easy enough set up to fix in a rush, the stock components still kick ass... it's easy to upgrade...
Weaknesses:
it's a composite... older XT components
Similar Products Used:
'03 norco wolverine
Bike Setup:
shimano XT derailleur, back XTR V-Brake, Avid front disc, 100mm Manitou Minute fork, crank bros mallet c pedals, shorty stem
Bottom Line:
It's a hot piece of sh't I wouldn't trade/sell... it's with me till the day I or it dies...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt BUtterworths
a Weekend Warrior
from Kelowna Date Reviewed: April 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
gillard , bos hog
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
olympia cycle
Strengths:
super light frame plush fork good geometry. great for trail riding.can build it up however you want to. looks good. own your freinds up the hill
Weaknesses:
little flexy on bigger drops and gaps, hard on the legs and ankles. a little rattley on the dh trails but what can you expect?
Similar Products Used:
haro v2 rocky mountain flow devinci basher
Bike Setup:
marzocchi z1 fork, race face crank, alexrims supra-d, shimano mech disk brakes, maxxis mofo DH tires , sram 7 drivetrain
Bottom Line:
don't buy it if you want to huck off 25 fott cliffs. do buy if you are just getting into the more difficult freeriding or trailriding. good all round intermediate bike. can use it for almost any type of riding just depends how you build it up. I use it as a freeride, dirtjump, aggressive xc bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zaheer
a Cross Country Rider
from South Africa Date Reviewed: November 4, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Lbs
Strengths:
Light weight, Handles like a dream, accelerates like a mountain goat with a firecracker up its butt!! Geometry is excellent, relatively better than expected on descents and can be thrown down the steepest trail with confidence. Rolf dolomite wheels are the best I`ve used- Only trued once. equal to Chris King hubbed, bontrager rimmed hoops on a friends bike. Hayes braking power is eye watering, nut busting good!
Weaknesses:
Does flex on rocky jump offs. Can make u too confident? Hayes brakes drag on long descents(Needs a Bleed??), Icon parts are Shyte...
Similar Products Used:
Giant, Specialised, Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Chris King headset, Full XTR with titanium rear cogs, Tyres-depend on terrain, often use Kenda Kozmik lites for rolling hardpack,Selle Italia flite Ti saddle. bike weight about 21-22 punds
Bottom Line:
It just makes you want to go out and ride - if a bike can do that no matter the price, weight, name, components,etc. its a great bike. I always have a grin on my face on fast descents - trying to eek out just a little more speed-thanks Hayes. I have not had any other problems other than tuning things now and then. Shimano XTR has received enough praise in other reviews so I need not say anymore. My bike`s most revered bit is its Chris King headset, great too look at, works like a dream and is the best that money can buy. I enjoy dropping the hefty FS riders on the climbs and stick neck and neck with them on the descents - they wonder what they doing wrong... 10 years from now I will be happily fitting my brand new 500 gram Rockshox fork to my 8900... God willing... If you want a light weight, reliable, allround, racing cross country bike you cannot go wrong with an 8900 - if u can find one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Francis Gosselin
a Cross Country Rider
from Aylmer, Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: July 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Epic Ride (Multiple Orgasm + Power Line + FourPlay)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
bought left over frame & parts from a friend
Strengths:
Geometry perfect, Hayes, XTR - XT best setup, ultralight frame and indestructible Rolf Wheels
Weaknesses:
Crapy fork, stiff frame, XTR unprecise in mud lakes :P
Similar Products Used:
Kona TI bike full XTR + bomber Z3 -- Norco Bomber full suspension freeride w/bomber z1 full XT
Bike Setup:
XTR - XT, homemade carbon fork w/judy SL kit, red rhynolites & XTR V-brake. F & R michelin wild grippers.
Bottom Line:
a dream bike for anyone who want a light and manoeuvrable XC bike. reccommend change of fork and perhaps the use of an ultralight TI instead. very responsive to quick turns and weight shifting, which also makes it an excellent trial machine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zach chalmers
a Cross Country Rider
from chicaco, il, usa Date Reviewed: July 29, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
lakebike
Strengths:
great frame weight and geometry - a real classic !.
On the tight trails, technical uphills, long drag climbs, techy descents, running with the freeriders, all day riding - it's the business. Can't say enough !.
Weaknesses:
none. two years of marathon racing, downhilling in the rockies and all the hits inbetween and the baby is still going just as a stong.
Similar Products Used:
giant terrago ( bad climbing geometry, wheely happy ) cannondale F900 ( too fragile in crashes, broke it )
Bike Setup:
Judy 100 forks, 517s, V-brakes, Shockpost.
Bottom Line:
If it breaks I'll cry and then go buy another. No question.
Who should buy it ?. The 8000 series aint cheap for the 200 or 400 grams loss over the identical geometry 6000 or 7000 series. But 8900 the bike with light parts just seems to react to thought and the slightest wish to change lines or speed. So - 8000 series = XC racer, marathon rider. 6000, 7000 series. Anyone who wants a great geometry bomb-proof hardtail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Ennis
a Racer
from Jax, Fl Date Reviewed: June 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Razorback
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Champion Cycling #1 shop in jax
Strengths:
Bought this as a race bike the bike is a great geometry and weight for tight rough singletrack. handles awesome, I bought it mid season to replace a trek carbon and im amazed at how fast it accelerates
Weaknesses:
frames a little flexy on big hits, but its a hardtail its not supposed to save your butt when you screw up like those Freeride bikes. This bike requires skills to ride and you gotta stay on top of things or it will throw you
00 sid xc, rolf dolomites W/panaracer trailblasters, Thomson stem & post, easton monkeylite bar,XT, Truvative stylo team cranks, selle italia seat
Bottom Line:
Im 17 and this bike holds up to me. i like!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat O'Brien O'Brien
a Cross Country Rider
from Sapporo, Japan Date Reviewed: November 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Hayes Disk Brakes, Lightness
Weaknesses:
Hugi Rear hub, Icon pedals, frame creaking
Bike Setup:
98 SID, Hayes Disks
Bottom Line:
Great bike overall but as others have noted, the frame creaks and moans too much. This summer I nearly gave up because the seatpost had such a loud creak with each stroke. In fact, when I put my hand on the seat tube, I could feel this massive snap in the metal when I pedaled. By chance, I happened to put in another post and that solved it. But with colder weather, this post made the frame creak like crazy again. It's so loud it even drowns out the Hugi rear hub. I've tried grease, no grease, and WD-40, but the creaking comes and goes on its own. Any suggestions?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Gunning
a Cross Country Rider
from Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture Japan Date Reviewed: July 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ridge Runner
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The frame is light and nicely painted. For the kind of riding I do most, cross country, it is an all around great single tracker. I bought only the frame and had parts from another bike put on it so I can not make any reviews about the entire bike itself
Weaknesses:
The bottom bracket is always hitting rocks, roots etc...too low, therefore my pedals are always smacking the tops of stuff also.
Similar Products Used:
Gt, Litespeed, Moots, Fisher
Bike Setup:
Showa shocks (trash) all xt with Dia comp threadless and some cheapo headset (works well and suprisingly light)
Bottom Line:
Ok bike, I could use some better forks but that is another problem. I do not like that fact that it rides low and tends to hit everything in its path. I really do not recommend it for racing, a little too flexible esp. on bigger drops.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve russell
a Weekend Warrior
from keene,nh usa Date Reviewed: July 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The rolf rims have been the most impressive parts on the bike,i haven't had to have them trued in the 1 1/2 years i've owned the bike. The sl rock shock has been pretty steady in the woods and singletrack.
Weaknesses:
Not enough clearence at the bottom of the cranks.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale m-800 with alot of upgrades.
Bottom Line:
I never regretted buying the trek 8900, it's too bad that they don't make them anymore.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R.J. MACK
a Racer
from COLUMBIA, MD Date Reviewed: May 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
WIDOW MAKER
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Of course the Hayes. Wheels have held up suprisingly well for the abuse that I have put them through. The geometry is excellent for an XC bike. Pretty good visible components aside from the icon s**t.
Weaknesses:
Unfortunatlly they have marketed this bike to be a strong All around bike, which it isn't. The frame flexes at the thought of a drop-off exceeding 10 inches. The rotors on the Hayes warped, TWICE, and yes both of them. The BB was some no name peice o' s**t.
Similar Products Used:
Fisher X-Caliber, Trek 8500sl, GT Zaskar LE, Specialized Stumpjumper M2
Bike Setup:
Tomac Riser, RR xtr rear, Kore Elite Stem, 747's
Bottom Line:
You have to look at all the components you gt right off the bat. Rolf, Hayes, XTR. This would be a great bike for someone who is going to stick to the well groomed single track and eaiser. The icon parts need to be upgraded. Overall geometry of the bike feels good but there is too much flex in the frame. The only other compaint I have is with Trek. I had an 8500 but the shim in the seatpost came loose and couldn't be fixed. It took them 3 and a half months to get me a new frame, right in the middle of winter. So be careful of the company you are dealing with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel Myers
a Cross Country Rider
from Surfside Beach,SC Date Reviewed: April 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ALL
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The finest quality frame & workmanship toped off with awsome components!!!Perfection right out of the box!!!
Weaknesses:
ONLY THE RIDER!!!
Bike Setup:
Factory, with a suspension seat post
Bottom Line:
For any XC rider that wants the best of best this bike is for you!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KEVIN
a Weekend Warrior
from CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Date Reviewed: April 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Weaknesses:
Weak.....rock shocks, not TREKS fault.
Bottom Line:
This is my dream bike right out of the box. Love everything about it. This bike is FAST, just ask the cop that pulled me over for SPEEDING on a bike. Thumbs up TREK, keep up the good work!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Danny Wrench
a Weekend Warrior
from Moscow Mountain, IDAHO, USA Date Reviewed: April 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Moscow Mountain Style Ones
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Judy SL is easy to maintain, sweet looking Rolf wheels, Brakes Brakes Brakes.
Weaknesses:
If you ride this bike people automatically want to race you. I think it is a subliminal message painted into this bike.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper Comp, 7000, 98 8900
Bike Setup:
stock- sl, hayes discs, bontrager and icon everywhere
Bottom Line:
Its definitly raised my skills to a higher level. I took it to moab for spring break right after I bought it, and was immediately impressed with the brakes. After riding slickrock all day they didn't fade a bit. I can't wait to get rid of the damn xt rapidfire shifters, other than that it has been a good ride for the short time I've had it. Wish it was a little cheaper.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Davidson
a Racer
from Palo Alto, CA Date Reviewed: January 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, CA
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Disc Brakes (when they work), Bontrager Mustang Rims, Hugi Hubs.
What can I say about this disaster! It was obviously designed by the marketing department at Trek: "Hey lets put heavy disk brakes and a light RS SID to offset it. We can put all our ugly icon components but people will overlook it because of the disk brakes and the SID". My wife was enamoured with this bike so she bought it. This bike worked great for about 6 months (which is about the life of a factory race bike) and then it started to fall apart. I'm not going to go into the details because there are many.
Currently, there are creaks in BB area and the seatpost. Inspecting the BB we noticed that it's some cheap crappy thing (can't remember what) that needs constant tightening. The creak by the seatpost comes and goes. I notice that the inside of the seat tube is scored from the manufacuring process.
To be fair my wife is a very agressive rider and racer. She has been destroying bikes and bike parts for years. We are in the process of turning this bike into a hardtail free ride bike by putting more durable components on it. Then it will used as a winter bike. Eventually, it will be forgotten as a "guest bike".
The Trek 8900 is a big disappointment for both of us. For her, she has to ride it and for me because I have to keep fixing it. She's looking forward to getting a new bike this year so she doesn't have to ride this one so much.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Poston
a Cross-Country Rider
from Knoxville, TN Date Reviewed: January 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The bike overall is great. I love the Hayes disc brakes, they have great stopping power along with good modulation. Overall good components. Great bike for the money.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Bike Setup:
I did have the original Judy SL, but I now have a 2000 SID XC. I also have a Rock Shox seat post.
Bottom Line:
Great bike overall. Awesome ride on single track. Great bike for the price. To bad they don't make them anymore.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross-Country Rider
from Wallingford, CT Date Reviewed: November 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Tyler mill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Pretty much everything. Especially the hayes disc brakes. Incredible stopping power. The frame also has a great geometry for singletrack. The Rolf wheel are trouble free and awesome looking.
Weaknesses:
I'm disappointed it didn't come with a SID in 99 like it did in 98. Cheap bottom bracket (UN52)
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F2000, GT avalanche LE, GT STS.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike for a great price. Has potential to be a superlight bike by adding a SID and swapping the bottom bracket for a lighter one. Right now it weight a tad under 25 lbs. With a few provisions you could easily get to in the 23 pound range.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat OBrien
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sapporo, Japan Date Reviewed: November 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Shinrin Koen
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
This is simply a great bike. Too bad Trek is discontinuing it next year. I've been riding for two seasons (mine is actually a 1998 with SID forks but the frame cracked down by the BB last season, and they replaced it no questions asked) and it's a dream set-up. The Hayes brakes are great, the XTR stuff (including cranks) is flawless, and the fork is made to run. Taken together, it is an incredible ride both downhill and cross-country. It's doubtful I'll ever have another bike this good.
Weaknesses:
Frame: it cracked down by the BB (1998 model without added support); the Icon pedals are weak and noisy; the Hugi hub's star ratchet will give out from time to time; and the SID can be tempermental.
Bike Setup:
8900 Hayes disks SID Hugi hubs XTR components (rapid rise)
Bottom Line:
A product that only comes along once in a lifetime.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JORGE MARCH RATTONI
a Cross-Country Rider
from MEXICO D.F. Date Reviewed: October 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great frame flexibilty,
Weaknesses:
brand
Bottom Line:
its a good ride and fun to take it to the limit
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bret
a Racer
from baton rouge , la Date Reviewed: October 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
lincoln parish park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
excellent acceleration, light considering disc brakes. looks bad ass.
Weaknesses:
no problems yet, but the headset should go
Similar Products Used:
fisher joshua, schwinn homegrown, other crap
Bike Setup:
stock bik, changed to sid sl, panaracer fire xc's, near 23 lbs
Bottom Line:
great bike if you can afford one. i dont know why everyone has a fear of buying a trek. just because it is a large company doesnt mean they dont make good products. ex. LANCE ARMSTRONG representing the usps on a TREK. good job Lance
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AW
a Cross-Country Rider
from Cedar Rapis, Iowa Date Reviewed: October 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Sugar Bottom
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Hayes Brakes, Rolf Wheels, Agility, Power to ground, Climbing
Weaknesses:
Are you kidding?
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Moab, Kona Mano Mano, Specialized FSR
Bottom Line:
This bike sneaks through the tightest single track, always fast and climbs like it has its own motor. The wheels are incredible, no pinch flats. Hayes brakes are the best, no worries in the mud or overheating rims. This is a kick ass bike. Where ever I take it, I get questions on the wheels and how it rides, lots of interest. I'd buy this bike again in a heartbeat, no doubt about it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dzon
a Cross-Country Rider
from seattle Date Reviewed: October 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Rigid tough frame Rolf wheels Hayes disc brakes
Weaknesses:
Icon cranks Hayes disc brakes
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Super-V GT LTS Trek OCLV
Bike Setup:
Stock with Hayes disc Rolf Dolomite wheels XTR/XT/Icon Judy SL
Bottom Line:
Stock bike was well setup with good components, the bike with disc brakes and Judy SL weight was 25.5 lbs.Hayes brakes work very well. I had problems with the rotors rubing and warping!The Icon cranks suck the big one. The 9 speed chain gets caught between the chain rings a lot! The Rolf wheels are awesome. I do heavy down hill and it has be free of problems. Pinch flats are common if you hit hard though!The frame has a lower BB and feel. Climbs well. Rigid and fast. Top tube is slightly short for me (19.5 frame) and turns slower than my OCLV. It is more laid back geometry than I expected. Overall I have been very happy with it. I do wish it was lighter than 25.5 lbs. The Judy SL is a good fork. Limited travel but very acceptable.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RUK
a Cross-Country Rider
from SPOKANE WA Date Reviewed: September 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
SCOKUM FLATS , MT. REINER
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
JUST A 8900 FRAME BUT CAN'T COMPLAIN ONE OF THE TOUGHEST FRAMES FRAMES I'VE OWNED.
Weaknesses:
THE ONLY ONE I KNOW OF IS THAT IF YOU YOU WANT TO KEEP IT PRETTY LIKE A PUSSY, IT DOES DENT EASY BY THE CRANK IF YOU KICK UP BIG ROCKS
Similar Products Used:
LIGT SPEED OS.
Bike Setup:
8900, SID, CANE CREEK, IBIS HEAD SET, SHIMANO XTR BRAKES, DERALERS,AND SHIFTERS
Bottom Line:
CAN'T COMPLAIN AT ALL I'VE ROAD IT THROUGH HARD AND SOFT AND ITS PERFORMED WELL!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leebilly
a Cross-Country Rider
from Dalzell, SC Date Reviewed: September 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Spider Alley Okinawa Japan
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
rigid frame, xtr & xt components, Hayes disk brakes
Weaknesses:
None as of yet
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F500, Trek 8000 & an old ass Schwin
Bike Setup:
Out of the box
Bottom Line:
I bought the bike today & rode about 15 miles. The bike climbs great and everything seems to work as intended. The front brake seems to rub just a bit and the brake cable going to the rear constantly beat against the frame. None of which made for a bad ride. I really like the bike. Looks cool and rides great. Enough said. Five flaming day after craps.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Weekend Warrior
from pittsburgh pa Date Reviewed: August 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
deer lakes
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
hayes disc are intriging
Weaknesses:
icon cranks worry me
Similar Products Used:
cannondale full suspension
Bike Setup:
factory out of the box
Bottom Line:
I havnt bought the bike yet , I'm a 240 lb rider and am not sure if this bike can endure the beating which my weight can give it. The reason im considering a hard tail is I need a little help climbing. I've heard the 8900 is a great bike, its the word TREK that is holding me back. Any suggestions would be appreiciated...thanks
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bowman
a Cross-Country Rider
from TEAGU, Korea Date Reviewed: August 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
muju resort east trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Love the price, try to peice something comparable.
Weaknesses:
Whats up with the LX bULL. come on TREK.
Similar Products Used:
schwin Homegrown
Bike Setup:
stock mius RACEFACE TI BB SACH PLAZMA SHIFTERS RACEFACE HEADSET RACEFACE STEM THOMPSON SEATPOST EASTON MONKEY LITE RISER BAR SWEET! SWEET! SWEET!
Bottom Line:
KICKIN KIMPSHI ASS
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
funnyman
a Racer
from madville Date Reviewed: August 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the okay
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
good frame
Weaknesses:
bad brakes bad wheels the broke69times bad motor, the shaft is broked
Similar Products Used:
huffy trail master
Bike Setup:
i used a springy one
Bottom Line:
i like this bike it is nice and smooth but not narly as good as the caldor huffy for $79 it is terrible on trails and i usualluy have to weld the frame after every ride cxause it brakes toom uch and the brakes make you go faster, but the engine is too small also!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dangeruss
a Racer
from Florida Date Reviewed: July 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Conyers olympic trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
A true climber. The first hill i came to was pure power to the pedals. Awesome stiffness in the frame.
Weaknesses:
Disc brakes are hard to adjust so they don't rub
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Homegrown Amp Research w/discs Trek 8900 1998model
Bike Setup:
I've got the sid shock because it's lighter than the Judy that it came with.
Bottom Line:
A bad ass bike for the bucks and don't regret the purchase at all.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ill Date Reviewed: July 27, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very strong. Supports my 6'2 210 frame w/o a wimper. The wheels are what are still amazing me. Can't believe the punishment that I have given, and they keep humming along. I regularly go through rear rims (go figure). I don't even look at the rims till I get home.
Weaknesses:
Bottom bracket (lx) and headset. Disc nuts loosen often.
Similar Products Used:
F900, and lots of older bikes, but nothing at this level.
Bike Setup:
Stock but plan on headset and bb upgrade soon. Nothing new for me though. Every bike I have owned has been upgraded in these areas.
Bottom Line:
OK, enough with the mushy stuff. This bike is mega strong. There are lighter steeds out there, but for an abusive rider, this one will suit most people. Very stiff and accurate handling.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
shaun laurens
a Weekend Warrior
from cape town, south africa Date Reviewed: July 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
table mountain - deer park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great bike, nice and light, superb wheels that seems to be extremely strong (touch wood) and a bit creaky. Dunno why but bike shop dude says it is normal.
Weaknesses:
Hayes brakes -> good but i have to tighten the nuts holding the rotors after EVERY ride!
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F1000
Bike Setup:
stock~
Bottom Line:
much more cumfy than the Cannondale F1000, and since i ride only as time allows, this is important to me!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Racer
from Roanoke, Va Date Reviewed: July 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
Everything, this bike is ready to race out of the box and a few adjustments
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn, GT, Raleigh, Specialized, Cannondale
Bike Setup:
All stock, does not need anything new unless your nuts!!
Bottom Line:
I can't believe the review below, this guy as I can see is a college student which explains part of his lack of knowing the difference between a real bike and a toy. You show me what frame most V brakes won't flex and I'll show you a bike that is too heavy. Especially the Scwhinn he reviewed. This bike is as good as it gets for a race ready out of the box bike. Love those Rolfe's. I had my doubts but not after riding this fine bike after trying all the so called great bikes that Schwinn, GT, etc etc had to offer and I am a big rider at 240lbs and 6' 3 and this bike takes all I got and keeps getting it. I also love the nice Hayes disc. Yes for the weight weenies they are a no go but you can't beat disc in the nasty stuff other than Magura's. That is what blew my mind about the college kids review or should I say attempt at a review a great bike like this. I mean who in his right mind would mention V brakes when this bike has the best there is in brakes, Hayes disc. He also says the frame is too heavy for a frame that cost this much and he didn't like the color. What moron buys a bike that he doesn't like anything about it, especially the color. Haven't you heard of a LBS to try a bike out first. Sorry but it really kills me when people who have no idea about bikes and components trash something they know very little about. I guess he has never heard of Travis Brown either. Oh well he wouldn't understand if I told him. This bike will be tracking until it can't go anymore and as I said, it races well right out of the box. The only thing I changed was the headset to a Chris King and put a 30 degree rise handle bar on for a more comfortable ride position. Enough time wasted. lets go ride!!! I would give this bike 10 if the review rating would let me!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William
a Cross-Country Rider
from Buena Park, Ca Date Reviewed: July 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Weaknesses:
The designers only took into consideration a rider who wanted rear disk Brakes. Their whsh bone design is very weak in supporting V-brakes. The pressure from braking causes the frame to flex. A brake booster is definately needed to support the rear brakes.
Similar Products Used:
I was more impressed with the schwinn home grown frame. Its cheaper and the rear brakes are more supported by a bent tube design. I think the paint is more attractive also.
Bottom Line:
Ok frame for rear disk. This frame is far too expensive considering it's weight and the rear brake design problem.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andreas Madsen
a Cross-Country Rider
from Skien Date Reviewed: July 1, 1999
It`s a Wonderful bike. The best I have ever tried.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
A.C.
a Racer
from Montpelier Va. Date Reviewed: June 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Poor Farm Park
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Stiff Frame, Exc.Shifting Forks are better than any SL's tried before,Ilove the bike. The disc. are awesome. The Rolf wheels are the best MTB wheels I've ever ridden. Thanks Trek.
Weaknesses:
I did'nt buy a bike like this before
Similar Products Used:
Canondale F-2000 GT Zaskar, Marin Team
Bike Setup:
AllStock It just does'nt get much better
Bottom Line:
I've ridden full susp. for years and was scepticle about riding a hardtail, but the performance more than makes up for the stiffnes. A+ to Trek.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raymond vd Haar
a Cross-Country Rider
from Amsterdam Netherlands Date Reviewed: May 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Lake Garda Italy
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great frame, rigid and stiff, components are perfectly suited for the bike... the brakes especially are a dream to use
Weaknesses:
At purchase brakes need some precise tuning
Similar Products Used:
Giant ATX 870, MCM, specialized Rockhopper
Bottom Line:
Great bike I recommend it to everybody...Apart from the functionality this bike looks real cool!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dick Cupples
a Racer
from St. Thomas Date Reviewed: May 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
elgin bike trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
i figured out how to get the disk strait. its how much tork you put on the bolts. if it touches on one side tighten that side up buy the web of steel conected to the bolt. use a tork wrench so that you dont over tighen the nut and strip the hole. i still haven't trued the rolf rims an i have hit some many fallen logs, roots, and drop offs of over 4 feet on to cement.
Weaknesses:
still havent found any
Bike Setup:
keep it the same
Bottom Line:
THE BIKE RULES!!!!!!!!!! TREK RULES!!!!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Traverse City Date Reviewed: April 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Don't have a favorite
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good Value, Climbs great, nice brakes, Rolf wheels
Weaknesses:
Torx bolts hold the disk to the hub and they strip very easily. Hayes disks that aren't straight= drag
Similar Products Used:
Almost everything I work at a bike shop
Bike Setup:
Judy SL Race Face Cranks Real cassette and BB Ti Flite Saddle 8 Speed plasma shifters
Bottom Line:
A pretty nice bike, awesome frame, nice components, good wheels.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dick Cupples
a Racer
from St. Thomas, Ontario. Canada Date Reviewed: April 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Snake Pit
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Almost everything is kick ass. The rims have stayed true and I do alot of urban assult at night when the cops are not out. The brakes have so much power and modulation. just remember to keep the compression bolt on the levers tight underneath the little rubber boot. They do loosen off over time. The rolf skewers are the best. They are nice and big and have a Kick ass look.
Weaknesses:
The Judy SL does not give the adjustment i had expected but the adjustment is alright. Cant beat the smoothness. The disks do touch a little but not enough to worry. I checked and the disk is perfectly flat on the suface plate, it must be the hub or something that is not true. Shimano has to fix the noisy optical display pod. I think I'll get the Shimano Flight Deck
Similar Products Used:
Why would I test any other products when there is a company called TREK making bikes. You can't go wrong with this company or any of the companies it own's.
Bottom Line:
This is the dream bike for any person. The disks do touch but, any disk touches some times so quit your B*tch'in and go ride the TREK 8900 at a Autorized Dealer near you. Trek... Gets You There.. Infinity out of Five Flaming Farts
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Woody
a racer
from Spruce Pine,North Carolina Date Reviewed: March 13, 1999
Bottom Line:
I purchased this bike in jan. and so far i it kicks ask. The frame is smooth and rigid. The fork is sweet. The brakes are UNREAL!!!!!Practically zero drag.The only component that i would consider changing is the mega 9 system. I am not impressed with the narrower chain that is easily twisted into what i would call a twizler. It seems to me that Shimano is trying a little too hard to put the 9 off on the high end rides.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dick Cupples
a cross-country rider
from St. Thomas. Ontario. Canada Date Reviewed: January 24, 1999
Bottom Line:
The Bike is fast and a excellent conversation piece at the races. The Rock shox judy sl[80mm would be nice, if it came with the bike] can handle anything you can handle. The components are smooth and reliable in any and all conditions[mud, snow, rain, ice,] and the Hayes disk brakes are amazing [no problems there what so ever]. The Rolf Dolomite Disk rims are a very stiff and true at and speed or trail condition. The Icon parts mix are extremly well made in all aspects. I would have liked to have seen a better grade of cassette on it, but the HG70 performed well. The Bontager RE-1's are the best Shimano 747 knock-off i have ever seen. The frame was very strong, stiff and predictable[better than any i have ridden]. The frame stands up to big drop-offs and screw ups. If you want a bike that will take you on a like long TREK, this is the best bike to go on. HANDS DOWN FINSH LINE WINNER.Sites that are worth looking at: www.rolfwheels.com www.rockshox.com www.trekbikes.com www.hayesbrake.com www.iconbikeparts.com www.bontrager.comThis bike is a 10 out of 5 stars!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a racer
from Raleigh NC Date Reviewed: December 22, 1998
Bottom Line:
I ordered this bike back in September and it finally came in. The brakes are incredibly powerfull and great for muddy conditions. I am a little worried about a bent disc as this would make the bike unrideable and cost 70$ to replace. THe wheels seem cool and I like the fork just the way it comes. Great tricked out bike. That even the people I work with at the bike store wanted to play with.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dugg tompsen
a racer
from raleigh nc, US Date Reviewed: December 17, 1998
Bottom Line:
this bike is race ready to start from... for any beginner this is the bike you must get if you put in englunds and a few alterations to some other stuff all i can say is pretty sweet...i give it five flaming farts
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Merv
a cross-country rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: December 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
This product is a waste of time, of the three i bought all of them had faulty brakes, appart from this their faulty wheel frames cracked on several times so i replaced them with 3 xztr's
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a racer
from oxford ohio Date Reviewed: December 13, 1998
Bottom Line:
if you would like to support me, cuz im poor, please have this bike delivered to me at: 226 mcfarland hall miami university oxford, ohio 45056 if you cant send the entire bike, donations will also be accepted thanks a ton guys!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robb
a downhiller
from seven springs pa Date Reviewed: December 8, 1998
Bottom Line:
I bought this for a training bike. rides great the judy sl blows though. i switched it to a z2 bam and it is incredible. i highly reccommend it. the hayes disc brakes work great in all conditions. tires could be switched out for extremely muddy ( usual pa weather ) other wise they hook up nice.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Helgesen
a cross-country rider
from Houston Texas Date Reviewed: November 20, 1998
Bottom Line:
Its finally here and I got on of the 1st ones and all I can say is WOW!what a kick butt bike. You've got to get one and try it for yourself
Overall Rating:
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