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Submitted by
clinton
a Cross Country Rider
from la habra,ca usa
Date Reviewed: October 17, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | fullerton loop | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | the bikery | | Strengths: | Frame, wheels | | Weaknesses: | headset, derailers | | Bike Setup: | shimano delore crank, cassette, tora 302 fork | | Bottom Line: | The bike has lasted me for 9 years now and still going strong. It still has the original bontrager wheels and hubs( soon to change). For the time I have used it I have rode it hard from trails to downhill it has held up great! Nothing really bad to say about it. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe Swenson
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
Date Reviewed: August 13, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Lebanon Hills XC Trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$450.00 | | Purchased At: | Penn Cycle | | Strengths: | VERY Stiff. Bonded Easton AL frame (no welds). Super Long Life. Super High Durability. | | Weaknesses: | VERY Stiff. non-replaceable derailleur hanger, no disc tabs. Largest possible rear tire is 2.125 | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Super Caliber, Fisher Marlin, Trek 6000, Trek 8000 | | Bike Setup: | Been rebuilt MANY times. Current Rendition: '07 Mavic Crossland Wheelset, '07 Rockshox Revelation w/ CC S-3 headset, Avid bb7 front disc @ rear XT linear brakes, Avid SD 2.0 levers, '06 LX shifters, Deore Octalink crankset, XT derailleurs, Ritchy 4x stem and Bontrager select bars (31.8) | | Bottom Line: | Stock, this bike was mediocre by modern standards, but I've rebuilt it about 7-8 different times, each time making it a little better than the last. Ive used 4 different forks on it and 4 different wheelsets, The only thing left on it thats stock is the paint. Ive thoroughly thrashed and crashed this bike on numerous occasions and it soaks it up ever time. Takes a lickin' keeps on tickin' Hands down, this is the most longlived / worthwhile atb frame ive owned or worked on. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rt
a Cross Country Rider
from glenmoore, pa
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$280.00 | | Strengths: | frame,agility | | Weaknesses: | shifters, pedals, rock shox indy c (they are horrible) | | Similar Products Used: | gt | | Bike Setup: | azonic love seat
rock shox suspension seatpost
egg beater pedals
| | Bottom Line: | This bike is a great buy for the money. The frame is as good as a bike two times the amount. Light and agile! Also, the frameis tough and can take can take a beating. No need to buy a new frame till this one dies. The components are weak but they can be upgraded easily. The rock shox indy c is too forgiving and will be relaced very soon. This is a great buy! I would recommend this to anyone from beginner to advanced. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Iain Anderson
a Weekend Warrior
from Redcar
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Dunno | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Second hand | | Strengths: | Frame is very light and stiff, and is generally well made. The frame is good so makes a good platform to upgrade from. I'm also pleased i can fit a Tioga 2.1 DH in the frame as well because my skinny little 1.95s made it ride badly. | | Weaknesses: | Crappy factory components fitted. Paint is a bit easy to scratch... thats about it so far. I don't know how strong the frame is because it was 5 years old when i bought it and i've only had it 6 months. | | Similar Products Used: | Marin Hawk Hill, Schwinn Mesa GSX, Specialized A1 comp + FSR Elite | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z4s on front, Shimano STX RCs(soon to be replaced because they are flexy and are getting old), Mavic 519s on LX hubs. | | Bottom Line: | Overall this bike is really good for cross country and all round riding, its strong enough for anything except jumping and drops etc obviously. This frame can take a fair bit of abuse considering that it is really light. It is comfortable to ride and looks good. For the money you won't be disappointed... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Wasko
a Cross Country Rider
from Hartford, CT, US
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | MIddlesex, CT | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Purchased At: | Wayfarer Bike | | Strengths: | Strong frame - makes a good base to work with. The frame is excellent and great componenets can be added to get a top-notch bike. | | Weaknesses: | Came with cheesy components, but still worked out good because I didn't have a whole lot of capitol when I purchased and wasn't sure if I would *really* like mountain biking. | | Similar Products Used: | None. | | Bike Setup: | I replaced everything excepet for the frame. XT v brakes; Manitou FS Front shock; Mavic 517 rims; XT 4 arm cranks; XT hubs; XT rear cassette; XT bottom bracket; Syncros seat tube; and I can't remember all the other stuff off hand. | | Bottom Line: | This is an awsome starter bike. I bought mine in 1995 and the frame finally broke on the chain stay tube 4 weeks ago. I put the bike through 7 years of serious abuse; riding an average of 1.5 times a week, year round. I live in New England so the weather is never really pretty or condusive to clean, dry rides.
It comes with good enough components to get you through your first year - if you ride hard. If you don't ride hard, the components will likely last forever. I wasn't sure how much I was going to like biking when I bought it, but I quickly fell in love with the bike and sport.
A year after I purchsed the bike a replaced the drive train (except the front STX derailer). Three years after owning the bike I replaced everything except for the seat post, seat, front derailer, and bottom braket. I did all the work myself and it was like driving an entirely new bike! I'm not sure how much weight I shaved off, as I purchsed all XT parts - but the bike was significantly lighter and performed excellent. Then, last year, which was 6 years after buying the bike; I replaced the drive train again and did the rest of the parts, i.e. bottom bracket, seat, seat post, and front derailer. Then, four weeks ago, I cracked my frame and blew out my free hub.
I sent the frame back to Trek and am awaiting an answer as to its replacement. If they do repalce it, i'm probably just going to try to get things back together over the next few months and try to sell the 'whole' bike - as I have found a new bike... the Trek Fuel 90 Disc. I'm going to see if I and wheel-and-deal with Trek to get a discount on the Fuel, but either way... I'm gonna buy the sucker.
So, to sum it up: if you are looking for an awsome frame to get many years of hard riding out of but are not sure about the sport and are short on cash, the Trek 6500 is the way to go. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jojo747
a
from sf, ca
Date Reviewed: February 10, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$650.00 | | Strengths: | strong, quick frame. great bike to build on. | | Weaknesses: | mediocre components | | Bike Setup: | z3 bam, avid sd 7's, xt. | | Bottom Line: | Great frame for the money. Super fast & agile. Components are what you get for 600 bucks... but fun to build up on. Don't see the need to change a frame till I wreck this one or win the lotto. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jacob
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Potowatomi | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | Washtenaw Cycle | | Strengths: | Handles great, no twist shifters, frame is solid | | Weaknesses: | bottom bracket is worthless, stock seat is unbearable | | Similar Products Used: | I'd be embarassed to say | | Bike Setup: | Specialized saddle, Michelin Wildgripper Jet S | | Bottom Line: | I've had this bike for almost four years now. The bottom bracket has made noises almost from day one. THe bike shop would tighten it up, only to have it act up again. However, it's never failed on me. The only things that have failed on me are the rear derailluer (recently) and the plastic end for the cable housing at the rear derailluer. Otherwise, this bike has taken a lot of abuse and keeps on delivering great rides. Minor tuning has always made this bike shift and brake very well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ME
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Frame, Fork, Wheels, Rear Der., Tires | | Weaknesses: |
Seatpost (clamp), Crank, Cassette, chain, pedals FRONT DER | | Bike Setup: |
The bike now has all Syncros, XT/XTR and a Z3 light on the front | | Bottom Line: | New to the sport in '98 when i bought this bike. Great ride. People might complain about the fork, but I have ridden everwhere and everything with it and put it through any known condition to man. The frame is great, And VERY stout. At 180 pounds, I am not really heavy, but not all that light either, and the frame had put up with my unexperienced bulls**t without a moan. After upgrading extensively, the bike is now Dial and is SWEET. I have had the opprontunity to upgrade to a Schwinn Homegrown and the new, Giant Team Carbon, but have elected to stay with this frame.The seatpost started creaking soon after I got it, but a little WD-40 (yikes, huh?) took care of that (no, grease didn't work). As well, the front derailleur was improperly placed from the factory, and is also easy to fix with a skilled machanics hand. Other than that, the crank is very low cost, and the rings wear quickly, as does the suntour cassette. Other than that, All it needs is some C-less pedalsGreat lost cost bike. If I didn't have such a lust for high end, I wouldn't have change very muchFive for the frame, performance and value, Four for the bike over all | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric Weinhardt
a Cross-Country Rider
from Binbrook Ontairo
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
everywhere | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
frame weight, stiffness
good fork (judy C)
great hub and wheel set | | Weaknesses: |
crank set and front
deraleur | | Similar Products Used: |
giant atx 890 780 | | Bottom Line: | For the money this bike kicks butt. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Barrie
a Weekend Warrior
from London, England
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Good, light solid US built frame for the money. Rear der. and shifters. Bonty saddle. Good overall weight. | | Weaknesses: |
Parts which I destroyed within a year: chain; rear cassette, front der, crankset. Those pedals with the straps. | | Similar Products Used: |
First real mountain bike | | Bike Setup: |
Now has: 99 SID XC long travel; Mavic crosslinks, USE SX post, Race Face Cranks and rings, XTR brakes, Chris King headset, XTR front der, xt cassette, shimano clipless pedals and continetal Dual fighter tyres. XT bottom bracket. | | Bottom Line: | When I bought this bike I was new to mountain biking and I considered £550 to be a lot to pay for a mountain bike. However I was seduced by the nice colours, paired with the nice saddle and fork, into parting with my money. Like many a newbie I was also attracted by the fact that it had a Deore LX rear der. On the test run I was impressed by the light and responsive feel of the bike, which compared favourably with my old steel lump of a bike which I had owned for 5 years. My initial euphoria at owing my Trek began to wane after a few week of use as I found the pedals with the straps difficult to use and I quickly ditched them for a clipless pair. After six months use I had worn out both the crappy stock chain (replaced with a Sachs powerlink PC-91)and the rear cassette. The brakes flexed far too much and the pads dissolved in the rain within a couple of months, to be replaced with a set of koolstops. Within 9 months I had managed to bend the big ring of the crankset and because it was a solid block I had to replace the entire thing (Race Face crank and rings), I also bent my front der. which was replaced with an XTR. However the biggest improvement with the bike came when I replaced the wheels and the tyres(Conti Ave. Semi Slicks in summer and Dual fighters the rest of the year). I found that the frame can give a harsh ride which I have softened with a sus. seatpost. Overall this was a reasonable bike for the money, however as i began to spend more and more time cycling I soon became unsatisfied with some of the parts which I have now upgraded. I have also spend a considerable amount on upgrades (fork, headset,brakes) after these parts were stolen. Thank God for Insurance. If you have a limited budget this is a good place to start, however with more and more money to spend I bought better parts. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Y.B.
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hull, Qc
Date Reviewed: September 24, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Frame
Rear derailleur
Shifters
Fork | | Weaknesses: |
Crankset
Front derailleur
Seatpost | | Similar Products Used: |
'99 Kona Nunu | | Bike Setup: |
Pedals: Ritchey Pro
Seatpost: Titec
Stem: Titec
Handlebar: Aluminum DH
Front derailleur: STX RC | | Bottom Line: | This is a pretty good bike for cross-country. But like you've seen below, there are some weaknesses in this bike, that's why I've changed things on it to make it better. Bike like any mountain biker, it's time for me to change this bike because I'm doing competition. If you're interested in this bike, you can see the full details of it here: http://www.mtbr.com/market/messages/16530.html
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontaio NY
Date Reviewed: September 7, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
lost ponds | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
comfort | | Weaknesses: |
sharp corners | | Similar Products Used: |
GT | | Bottom Line: | it's a good bike | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hull, Quebec
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Parc de la Gatineau | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
price
frame
weight | | Weaknesses: |
front derallieur
fork | | Similar Products Used: |
Giant ATX 870 | | Bike Setup: |
Trek 6500 with a manitou sx | | Bottom Line: | if you change the fork (indy C: too soft) this is a great xc bike | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
guizmo
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hull, Qc
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Trails in the Parc de Mont-Tremblant and the Parc de la Gatineau | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Excellent frame for the price (light, fast), Indy C is a good deal | | Weaknesses: |
Front derailleur, pedals | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Rockhopper, Kona Nunu | | Bike Setup: |
1998 Trek 6500zx, Ritchey's Pro Competition pedals | | Bottom Line: | It's an excellent bike for someone beginning in cross-country competition except for the front derailleur (has many problems even if fixed). For that, I will probably change it with a better one and I decided to change to clips for the pedals because I prefer that. I think that the Indy C is good deal, I never had problems with it. Buy this bike!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Weekend Warrior
from UK, Kent
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
The City | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Great fram
Lovely colour (Dragonfly Orange)
Good componentry
Light | | Weaknesses: |
None SO FAR | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek 6000
Kona Cinder Cone | | Bike Setup: |
Standard '99 Trek 6500 with Azonic riser bars and platform pedals | | Bottom Line: | A very very good bike for the money, I have just got into mountain biking and it is ideal for first time users. I love it and the whole package is just what I wanted. The only things I changed were the pedals and bars.
5 Flamin' Chillies! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Kinder
a Weekend Warrior
from Louisville, KY
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Road riding | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Frame(had a problem with noise inside seat tube after a month, though) | | Weaknesses: |
Componentry (especially the front derailleur and hubset) | | Similar Products Used: |
N/A | | Bike Setup: |
LX and XT upgrades across the board... | | Bottom Line: | This machine is my Re-Entry back to the cycling world. I am 45 years old and just quit smoking 3 months ago. I was amazed at the fact that machines today do not include a full component group on them. It appears the dollar has taken hold! I love this bike! With all the upgrades I have done it is all I expect and more! I'm up to 50 miles a week (all road) and moving forward to more. This bike gives me the riding position I hoped it would and the load carrying I desire for the future (KY to MI in 2002). The frame noise was quite annoying. It developed about a month after I got it. This is a known issue according to Trek Tech Support. My dealer contacted them about this and recommended using Loctite in the tube, then invert the frame so it could run between the tubes. This worked! No more noise and the frame still carries its Lifetime Warranty. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt J
a Cross-Country Rider
from Colorado Springs
Date Reviewed: July 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Palmer Park | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Frame, handling | | Weaknesses: |
Front derailler, Front fork | | Similar Products Used: |
Schwinn Moab 1, Cannondale Killer V 700 | | Bike Setup: |
Trek 6500 ZX, XT Drivetrain, Marzocchi A-Bomb | | Bottom Line: | Follow up to my previous review. This frame kicks @$$ for the money. Have taken the time to upgrade it and can honestly say that this bike just gets better. I ride a lot of rocky, technical trails and can say that this bike climes like a goat and handles the rough stuff great. The front derailler sucked, but with the addition of an XT front the bike shifts smoothly. I got a great deal on an A-bomb at Colorado Cyclist so I also upgraded the so-so Indy C and now this bike just rips. Anyone who is thinking about getting a new model I would definetly say go for it since it has the new Judy C with the hydracoil system. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andrew
a Cross-Country Rider
from sterling, alaska
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
devils pass | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
strong ass frame, light, quick, basic proven design | | Weaknesses: |
none | | Similar Products Used: |
voodoo
gt
schwinn
specialized | | Bike Setup: |
indy c | | Bottom Line: | great bike, got me more interested in the sport,
i weigh 210, so i put some mountain springs in the indys, and put on v brakes, the bike performed very well for almost any accasion.
she deserves 5 peppers | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
M. Gates
a Cross-Country Rider
from Powell, TN
Date Reviewed: May 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Virginia Creeper | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Frame is virtually indestructable, cushy smooth ride, nice gearing, luv the rapidfires | | Weaknesses: |
Components, especially wheels, tires and fork, don't seem like they belong with this bike | | Similar Products Used: |
several crappier low-quality bikes | | Bike Setup: |
'97 Trek 6500 (duh!) Rock Shox Indy C | | Bottom Line: | This is my first real deal mountain bike, and I got a hell of a good deal on it (it was last year's model, got about $200 off, some guy was gonna buy it and added bar ends and stuff to it, but never came and got it) This bike has really made me get into mountain biking more than I had before. After about 600 miles I had to replace the tioga tires; they wore a little too quickly, I now have a pair of Ritchey Speedmaxes on there, they suit the bike much better, and are quieter on pavement. The matrix wheels kept getting out of true for a few months, but it seems to have stopped now. If I had the dough, i'd stick a nice fat Judy fork to replace the Indy. Nothing wrong with the indy, I'd just like a bit more travel when the going gets really rough. Besides, the aluminum frame on this bike deserves better. It seems like nothing could make this frame even think about breaking or bending. This is a truly wonderful hardtail and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable, yet indestructable, cross country ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russell
a Cross-Country Rider
from Valley Forge, PA
Date Reviewed: May 11, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Frame, Fit | | Weaknesses: |
Sugino Crank, Indy C Fork | | Similar Products Used: |
Giant Butte | | Bike Setup: |
Icon Crankshaft cranks, Rock Shox Suspension Post | | Bottom Line: | Update to review posted on 6/12/98: many additional miles, and this bike still rocks! I bent the hell out of the original crank and upgraded to an Icon Crankshaft (brand new $100 from a friend) and a new LX front derailleur. What a difference! Also put on a RS suspension seatpost, which helps quite a bit. This is a great bike to upgrade. The original components will stay as long as they work, but I am looking to replace the shock. For me, the purpose of this bike was to get me out on the trails ASAP on a decent and affordable bike. The 6500 delivered. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Downhiller
from East Stroudsburg,PA
Date Reviewed: May 1, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
cliff trial | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
The whole setup. | | Weaknesses: |
The straight handlebars. | | Similar Products Used: |
TREK 7000 may i add the 6500 is much better and rides much nicer. | | Bike Setup: |
Deore LX rear derrailieur, Indy C fork. | | Bottom Line: | The 6500 is a very kickass hardtail for the money it is the best bike that i have ever riden. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
charlie dalziel
a Weekend Warrior
from newcastle upon tyne england
Date Reviewed: May 1, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
a hell of a nice bike its strong and looks good pity about the componants though | | Weaknesses: |
bad shockers and compants need upgrading to Z1 bam and get some xt | | Similar Products Used: |
trek 7000 trek6000 | | Bottom Line: | this is a nice bike light weight strong pity about the componants though | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
charlie d.l
a Cross-Country Rider
from england
Date Reviewed: March 20, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
none | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
bomb proof frame nice seat and sexy tires | | Weaknesses: |
front shockers are cr@p | | Similar Products Used: |
gt backwoods | | Bike Setup: |
rock shock indy c | | Bottom Line: | an awsome bike although the shockers are heavy and need upgrading to some z1 bomers or mozo pro 4.5s f-ing nice bike | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
garth
a Cross-Country Rider
from Johannesburg,South Africa
Date Reviewed: March 17, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
STRONG FRAME, OK COMPONENTS | | Weaknesses: |
BIKE WEIGHT AND POOR FRONT SHOCKS | | Similar Products Used: |
TREK 800, TREK 820, GT TEQUESTA AND GT BACKWOODS | | Bike Setup: |
I REPLACED THE SHOCKS WITH rst MOZO PRO 3.5, UPGRADED THE COMPONENTS TO XT AND XTR | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike!! I do suggest upgrading the shocks - it makes for a better ride and significantly improves the already good handling. The previous bike I owned was a TREK 820 hard nose and the 6500 was a good upgrade. This bike is a good mid range performer - get it! I give it 4 chillies. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
NAD
a weekend warrior
from Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
Date Reviewed: January 11, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I Bought My 6500 new in 95. Two days of riding and I snaped the grip shifter! Thanks to Trek for quick warr. service. Wow! great bike for the money. The blue/silver paint looks good. Really nice bond seams(no welds) but cheaply spec'd. I upgraded to Lx/Stx, Ricthey pedals, Manitou pro-c fork (Great for the money! Thanx Deep Cove!) Tecktro quartx v-type brakes. The bike is pretty light, I'm 5'11 172 lbs. My first bike was an 820 Trek. I wanted something stronger and tried every other bike in this price range. The 6500 was the best. It doesn't matter what kind of bike you have as long as you ride. Now get of the net and go RIDE YOUR BIKE! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mudbug
a cross-country rider
from Alvin, TX
Date Reviewed: January 2, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike really ROCKS! It may not have all the bells and whistles that Zap would like you to buy; but so what? Its my 2nd ride and one hell of a damn good upgrade. I used to ride a Raleigh M-30 bomber. The components are OK and hold up to my abuse. I added a Thudbuster seatpost and it now rivals my bro's Y-bike. The rich kids out there may not like it but to hell with them anyway! My 65 is a '97 model(?) copper/rusty colored with a R/S Indy-C. No V-brakes? So? I like the Psycho K tires and have no real problems with chain-suck except in the worst of Texas mud, GUMBO. The cables could be re-routed from on top of the top post but that flame isn't that important since its an aluminum frame. I origially wasn't looking at this bike but a '97 closeout 6000. Lucky for me the bike shop sold my layaway bike. Pretty cool huh? Total price out the door before my upgrades was only $465; NO SHIT! For the price I 'll give my bike a flamin' hot 5 habaneros. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jono Davis
a cross-country rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my '95 since '96, I love it, it's a good solid ride, get's me into the deepest of woods, and has held up pretty well to the beating I've given it. However, I have to agree with people when they say the components are a little slack, but sure enough, i had destroyed all of that and upgrades within two seasons. The only other problem I have with it, is no fault of anyone's but my own, I'm a little on the tall side, and thus, I ride a 21 inch frame, I recently broke into the trials community, and I'm finding that standing on a picnic table with that bohemeth under me is a little awkward.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Marr
a racer
from Athens, GA
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Trek 6500 for about 3 years and I am convinced that the frame is bomb proof. The original componentry was slack though. I've upgraded to XTR with Cross Max wheels, and I've been very happy with the bike. With all the light components the bike still weighs 25 pounds. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
monkeyboy
a cross-country rider
from Redfield, SD
Date Reviewed: December 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike rawks! I had it for half a season, before winter came, and it kicked but. And I am running a really stiff shock too. A manitou fs buldge. I only weigh 165 so its just a little stiff for me. I give it 5 flaming bananas. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tripp
a weekend warrior
from Raleigh, NC
Date Reviewed: November 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just recently purchased my 6500 and it is a HUGE step up from my old cromoly 800. I have ridden it on trails twice now and will have to agree with a lot of the other reviews and say that the front derailluer could definitely use and upgrading. Other than that i think this is a great bike and the price i paid for it (about 600$) says a whole lot more about it. I plan to go clipless pretty soon and upgrade the front der. and maybe even putting on some disc brakes. I would recommend this bike to anyone who wants a great bike at a great price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pooh
a cross-country rider
from NYC
Date Reviewed: October 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bike's has decent components for the price, I'd go with a Marzocchi fork though...tires, Bontrager...they're okay. For the same price a better bike would be a '99 Backwoods or Specialized Rockhopper A1FS. The 6500 just seems to heavy compared to the others. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
squash6500
a weekend warrior
from The Great White North
Date Reviewed: October 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Right on Chris!!!, no the components are not the best, but you're right, they work. My 6500 is a 97. I have upgraded the derailures, fork, and crank, but only because I wore these parts out. The bike holds up incredibly well. I have had no problems that were not RIDER related. I think the cry babies need to learn to, 1. Maintain the bike, 2. Adjust things properly. Most of the problems that I have read about here could be cured with 1 and 2 above. There is one problem that I am aware of that is not rider related, that's the sugino crank they put on the 98 bike. My son had the same crank on his 97 6000, it was junked out in a month. Pretty weak, but it worked until we replaced it. Just remember, you get what you pay for, a $650.00 bike will not perform like a $1200.00 bike. And for those that think you need a bike out of the box that you are perfectly satisfied with, get real, it don't exsist. Besides, half the fun is in the upgrades as you get better you can make the bike better. This is a great bike to begin on, and is easily upgraded as you see fit. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a weekend warrior
from Moorhead MN
Date Reviewed: September 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My Trek 6500ZX is a couple of years old, a 96' I'm guessing, it is blue and grey with the old grey Rock Shox and Stx componentry. For those of you who are wondering how your bike will hold up in a couple of years, I have on word...wonderfuly. I ride hard and enjoy a lot of air. My trek has held up to all the abuse. For those of you that complain about the componentry I have had zero problems with mine. Yes, my brakes are not V and Stx is far from top of the line, yet amazingley :) they all work beautifly. I broke a couple of teeth in the front sprocket which seems to have no effect. I am sick of hearing about how the components suck on this bike with my experience even though they are not top of the line they work. And besides its not what your riding it is how you ride it and this one will stay in great shape for years to come with out any upgrades. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bart F
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Follow up: I have ridden approx. 1000 trail miles since I purchased
the 6500 in April and have found that this is a good ride for the
money. The front derailer is garbage as well as the factory grips. The
bike is light and fast. The durability of the bike is questionable since
I just broke the rail running from the rear wheel to the main post. Until
I broke the bike it was taking a beaten and holding up real well. I would
recommend this bike for the rider who likes cross-country or to a rider
who doesnt hammer to hard but in my opinion if you are going to do some
kamakazing this bike probably wont hold up. So for the cruisers I give it
4 chilis and the bombers 3 chilis
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Jenereaux
a weekend warrior
from Colorado Springs, Colorado
Date Reviewed: September 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This Bike is great!! I recently returned to cycling and have a renewed interest in it primarily thanks to this bike. It handles great, and looks pretty good as well. I do agree that the front derailer could be better but thats the fun of upgrading. If your thinking about getting a bike you can't go wrong with this one, especially now that the 99's are coming in and these should be on closeout. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
eboos
a racer
from Santiago, Chile
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike when I was not sure if I was really going to get into Mountain Biking. Well let me tell you, if I had bought anything else that I was concedering, I probably wouldn't have really got into it. This bike has gone over countless upgrades, and I am almost completely satisfied. Right now the only component on the frame that is OEM, is the headset. I feel that the frame is very worthy of upgrading, I have XTR hubs and rear deraileur and the rest is XT, with a Manitou SX-R fork now. The only complaint I have about the frame is that the rear brake needs a booster because the seat stays flex too much.Well all good thing must come to an end, and this frame is about to be retired. If it wasn't for Treks policy about mail order I would have ordered a Trek Alpha SL frame, instead I ordered a GT Zaskar LE.Rating
Frame: 4 chiles (minus 1 for flexy stays)
Price: 5 chiles
Components: N/A (didn't use them long enough to rate)
Trek's mail order policy: 1 flaming turd (not concedered in overall rating of this product, but I just thought I'd mention it anyway) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a cross-country rider
from Austin, Tx
Date Reviewed: August 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my 1999 6500 for a week now. It has about 100 miles on it. I've been riding a steel Diamondback for a few years and I decided it was time to upgrade to something with a front suspension. I looked at '98 7000's when I learned what the '99 6500 had to offer. The extra $200 for the 7000 wasn't worth it for me at this time. This bike is an awesome orange-yellow that changes colors depending on what angle your looking at it. I got at least 5 or 6 compliments from customers in the shop when I went to go pick it up. It is also available in black. The front fork is the new Jett which actually has dampening built in to it. The dampening isn't adjustable like the higher end models, but it does help. I am 5'9 and 150 lbs. I ride pretty hard and tend to break things if they aren't well built. I was looking for a good Al frame bike with good value. The components aren't the best and I think that they could have at least put an XT rear der. instead of an LX. That will probably be the first thing to go. The front der. ain't so hot, but for around $25 that can be changed, also. The thing I liked about this bike is that everything is either really good, or bad. I hate it when all components are middle of the line. You eventually want to replace all of them. It is alot easier to replace individual components than the frame. The derailleurs aren't great, and neither are the shifters, but those end up being upgraded anyway if you ride like I do. The wheels are great; the rear is the new asymmetrical design. The tires are bontrager Jones', the seat is an fs +10, I don't know about the hubs but the rims are great. After 100 miles and plenty of spills against the hard limestone rock around here, the front is perfect and the rear had only a TINY dimple. I was very impressed with this. I expected them to be in much worse shape. Most of the money for this bike goes towards a great, stiff frame. It even has a disc brake mount for the rear. Not to mention the lifetime warranty. This was important as I have broken a frame before and it tends to get expensive. The V-brakes are Promax. Never heard of them. Upgrade the derailleurs and shifter/brake levers to XT for around $150 and this thing will rock. For the money, this bike is a great deal. Nothing has broken yet, but I do see the derailleurs and shifters as the main weak spots. Upgrade those and you're set. This bike gets a well deserved five flaming chilis (which are coincidently the same color as my bike). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a weekend warrior
from Courtice. ONTARIO
Date Reviewed: August 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had this bike for about a month now and have loved it from the get-go. I appreciate the other reviews and the recommendations for upgrades (please e-mail me with suggestions ), but for now, the 6500 has taken everything I've given! I'm over 200 lbs, which I thought might be a concern, but no problems so far... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crazy
a weekend warrior
from USA
Date Reviewed: August 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Picked my TREK 6500 from Bikes USA for 617.00, it is a 1999 model.
It has the latest Judy XC JETT shock on it , which seems ok for me.
The components on this bike suck bad, except for the LX rear derailleur.
However, I did not want to pay for components on a bike after all my
shopping around. I ordered some XTR parts, the derailleurs and the all
the brake system, so the crank and the hubs will be the only thing on
this bike that isn't XTR, I'll upgrade those later. I just didn't not
want to buy the TREK8000 LX/XT stuff for and extra 400 dollars when I
can upgrade to XTR for the same price.
Even with the components that came with the bike, this bike was a great
ride. I rode the Trek8000 and did not notice any difference other than the
components. Of course this frame has ZX aluminum, whereas the 8000 has SL...
who cares? Anyway after searching and taking back bikes to stores, I finally
endend up with a great MTB that I like.
If you are looking for a bike to upgrade I give this one 5 chilis. If you
are looking for a bike that comes from the bike store with good components
I give this bike 4 chilis, so the rating system here really does not mean much.
To me it is 5 chilis, but in the context of this rating system it is obviously
a 4 chili.
Anyway, if you can find a 1999 for around 600 buy it. Upgrade your stuff later and you won't be crying over the extra money you threw away at purchase
time for less-than-XTR parts from a more expensive bike. I'll have this bike the
rest of my life...an interesting mix. Small moves...small moves. :)
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a weekend warrior
from Seattle, WA, Good 'ol USA
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Where to start, hmm. Guess with the purchase :-) I was in need of a new bike, and a bike shop near me was having a sale, their ad had a Schwinn Mesa GSX for $400, almost bought that when I saw the Trek 6500zx. It was the last one the store had, and the frame size was about right. The price? $430! Not a bad deal for this bike.
The Review:
Good bike, for the price I paid, an excellent bike. So far I've had the bike for almost a month. It's got about 60 miles on it so far, some single track and road riding. The frame is excellent, the brakes ain't too shabby, pedals are good too. The derailleurs haven't given me any trouble yet, we'll see about those. The Indy C fork is ok, not great, I've noticed it goes from being too stiff back to regular after I take it out of the shed, I assume temperature changes or just getting out and using it make the difference. The fork will be one of the first things to get upgraded, and maybe the derailleurs if they give me crap.
This bike has been great though, even took it to the Cascade mountains for some real trails, held up beautifully on the mini rock-quarries that seemed to litter the trail. Another great feature is that it's light, bout 26lbs, comes in handy for those hike-a-bike times on the trail.
Can't think of anything more, cept if you find one of these bikes for $500 or less then buy it!
This bike gets 5 chilis because of the price I paid for it, otherwise I'd give it 4. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Miller
a cross-country rider
from Abilene, TX
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is an update to my review on April 5. This bike is great. The frame is excellent. I have since upgraded my entire drivetrain to XT and it shifts beautifully. I have also replaced my seat, seatpost, fork and handlebars to a WTB SST-K, Thomson, Manitou SX, and Azonic World Force Riser Bar, respectively. I really don't race and I wanted a bike that I could bomb on so that is the reason for the riser bar. I also have Tioga Factory DH 2.1 tires and they're great as well. This bike has taken a beating and still runs wonderfully. If you want a good frame that you can upgrade then look to get a 6500 or 7000. Even with the tires and all my bike is still a sub 25 pound bike which is pretty good. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin L.
a weekend warrior
from Toronto, ON
Date Reviewed: August 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Great bike, best thing about is the sweet Trek 6013 T6 aluminum frame. Light, stiff, and incredibly agile. Feels great on the single-track, can out accelerate and out climb my friends on Cro-moly. When I was shopping, I was comparing this bike with the Specialized Rockhopper FS, and decided to go with this one for the sweeter frame. Also has a lifetime warranty! People shouldn't complain too much about components, since they can be upgraded. Most important is the frame, and this frame is worth the upgrading (that it does need, unfortunately). The LX r. derailleur is satisfactory for now, but the Alivio f. deraileur has DEFINITELY got to go though. With a few minor changes, this bike is a great one and a great deal. Comparisonwise, the Trek 6500ZX is a steal compared to similarly priced competitors and the frame feels really good and is extremely well made. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas Rogers
a weekend warrior
from VT
Date Reviewed: August 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I want my dad to buy me a green trek 6500. Where can I get it for $500 as this is the most he will spend. I noted one guy bought it for this price in a season clearance. I know this is a great bike and would appreciate you owners helping me out.Thanks
HELP | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BARRY GOLDBERG
a weekend warrior
from HILLSDALE, N.J.
Date Reviewed: July 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
RECENTLY PURCHASED A 6500ZX. MY 1ST ALUMINUM BIKE. BIG DIFFERENCE FROM CROMOLY.
TERRIFIC BIKE FOR THE MONEY. UPGRADED PEDALS TO CLIPLESS, ALVIO FT. DER. TO AN LX. CHANGED THE IRC TIRES TO RITCHEY SLICKS. IT NOW SHIFTS GREAT, RIDES GREAT ON THE ROAD AND HARDPACK. PROBABLY SHOULD HAVE GOTTEN A 7000 TO START. BUT, IT'S TOO LATE NOW.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
K.W.
a weekend warrior
from Rhode Island
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just started to get into mountain biking and read many reviews on front suspension bikes in the $500-$700 range. I chose the light frame on the 6500ZX because I knew I could always upgrade components. After about four months of weekend trail riding the dederailleurs are giving way. Otherwise, the bike is a steal at it's price(I got it on season clearance for $500). Do wish the components were a little better though. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Geof Davison
a cross-country rider
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a '97Trek 6500zx frame, but I got '98 components with it. it came with a Mantiou Answer sx fork and shimano Alivio parts. The suspension is awesome, the frame is great, and the components are ok. (You can always upgrade) This bike rides great!!! TREK IS THE BEST!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a weekend warrior
from Santa Barbara, CA
Date Reviewed: June 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my TREK 6500 for three years now...and I love it. It's time to upgrade some components and am in terested to hear what others are doing. The bike has never given me troubles except for the rims/tubes. I have had to straighten the rims numerous times and repair the tubes innumerable times. I plan to upgrade the fork, brakes and wheels. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roger Orr
a weekend warrior
from Redfield, South Dakota
Date Reviewed: June 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my 6500shx for a year now and find it to be one of the best moutain bike investments I've ever made. I agree with the other reviews, the drive train is not the best. I upgraded my bike with an XT drive train, and couldn't be happier. I also upgraded the front fork to a Manitou FS. This combination is awesome. When I ride I ride hard, and this bike can take it. A great bike for the money, and a solid performer. TREK RULES! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dwight
a weekend warrior
from Louisiana
Date Reviewed: June 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my trek6500 for about 3 months now. I mostly ride single track,no DH in the gulfsouth, and cruise the beach front. I put spuds and bar ends on it. It is a great bike but the mythos-xc tires tend to give in sand. my last bike was steel no shock and allevio gears so evrything about this bike is an exponential step up in quality. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a weekend warrior
from WI
Date Reviewed: June 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my first bike and has been great do far. The deraillers do suck but I upgraded my rear der to XTR and will upgrade the front soon. The seat isn't great for long rides but is fine for an hour or so. Overall this is a great and inexpensive platform to start from and it is easily upgradable. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christian Lee
a
from Burlington, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I think that this bike is the best possible value in bikes that you can buy today. The 6500 has the same frame as the higher-end 7000, and weighs only 3.63lbs. Some complaints I have about it is the sloppy front derailleur (Alivio) and the Front fork which is an Indy C. Still, the Indy C is a way better fork than the Indy S and is perfect for a novice on the trails like me. The paint job is powdercoated and withstands the chipping of rocks amazingly. The brakes are good. Make sure you get this bike from a good shop. It will save you lots of time and effort. Upgrade this thing to a Atom Bomb and a pair of hydraulic magura brakes. Don't be afraid to trash the wheels. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russell
a cross-country rider
from Philadelphia, PA
Date Reviewed: June 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased the 6500zx to upgrade form my old Giant Butte. This bike is fantastic! I've been hitting the trails pretty hard, and I have very few complaints. I have to agree with the other reviews about the derailleurs, I have been having slight shifting problems. I'll keep getting it tuned (LIFETIME free service from the bikeshop, which is a great deal) and see if that helps before I spend the cash on new derailleurs. Even though front suspensions are new to me, I have ridden enough to realize that the Indy C will have to be upgraded, but it is a decent shock for a beginner/novice like me. No biggie, I am planning on keeping this baby for awhile so upgrades are no problem. You will not be sorry if you buy this bike! Four chilis because of the derailleurs. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Big Lou
a weekend warrior
from Montreal,Quebec
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just came home from my ride on my TREK 6500. This bike is a beauty with it's nice green color. It's got aluminium frame, STX-RC Hubs and a LX rear derailer. The two things that I would change would be the Alivio front derailer and the Rock Shox Indy C. I've put bar-ends 'cause every XC-bike should have them. Plus, the frame is garantied for LIFE!!! WOW! No one can beat that. And also, Clipless would be nice :) GO TREK GO!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
joe verzosa
a weekend warrior
from san francisco, ca, usa
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased this bike because Trek is a solid platform to build from. There are only two problems I've encountered with this bike, the front and rear derailers. Soon these will be upgraded to Deore XT components, my brother has these components on his bike and they work great. I've already upgraded the pedals to clipless types, their just absolutely great. Other than the derailers, this bike is the BOMB. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bart Franklin
a cross-country rider
from Austin, Texas
Date Reviewed: April 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I agree with some of the other reviews in regards to the
front derailer needs some work but overall for the money
this bike is unbeatable. I compared the 6500zx to the
mongoose dx6.7 and the schwinn moab3, all these bikes were
similar in price and components with the trek having a better
rear derailer and crank with the schwinn and mongoose having
a better front derailer but all in all the trek had a better
feel in my opinion. So far this bike is a really sweet ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Loal Popolinkilaha
a cross-country rider
from Red City, Iowa
Date Reviewed: April 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is the best I've ever ridden for the price. A lot of my friends were buying Cannondales and Huffys, but for the ammount spent on the Trek, those other brands can not measure up. The commponents are o.k., regardless of what some will say. I got the shock upgrade package for less than 500 dollars while the Trek 8000 with standard suspension was closer to 1,000. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad Swanson
a weekend warrior
from Pullman, WA
Date Reviewed: April 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently turned in my old steel 820 for a more aggressive bike with suspension. I have just moved here from the midwest and finally dicovered mountain biking! Anyway, I like the aluminum feel but there are a few problems with the '98 6500zx. COMPONENTS! Specifically, the derailleur system sucks rocks (and on a little different note, the saddle destroys them - if you know what I mean...). My front seems to remain in constant disarray (even after tuning) and the rear is slow and cloggy). Nevertheless, this is a fun bike to ride for a very affordable price. The Indy C supplied is a true value and the rims and hubs are solid. With a few upgrades this bike is a winner. I don't get to ride much, but when I do it is hard and this bike has stood the test sofar. I give it a four only because of the component shortcomings. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Miller
a cross-country rider
from Abilene, Texas
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my first mountain bike and I must say that I love this bike. I was looking for a bike that was inexpensive, but one that I could upgrade. I have clipless pedals on the bike now and it makes riding it even more fun, even though it has taken some getting used to. I do think that the shifting is a little too rough and the front derailleur is really weak. Aside from these facts, if you are looking for a first time bike get a Trek 6500. (Anybody know of some good trails in Abilene, Texas.) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jacques St-louis
a cross-country rider
from montral, QUÉBEC
Date Reviewed: March 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I Was looking for a basic bike: a good alu frame because alu is light and strong, good huds, strong
Weels, box of crankset and pedals. For me the brakes and others compotements are not realy
importants. my choise is between trek 6500 and 7000. the 7000 is SHOW OFF bike. i chose the
6500(alu frame,indy xc,stxrc hubs, dobble side wall rim) and upgrade whith m535 shimano clip
pedals. my other choise is the trek 8000 more expensive
| | Overall Rating: |
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