Submitted by
chuckjoga
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, Colorado, USA Date Reviewed: August 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Sedalia, Indian Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
new on eBay
Strengths:
Lefty fork has incredible feel, stable handling, beautiful frame and finish. Stiff bottom bracket. Good stock seat.
Weaknesses:
Stock mechanical brakes are weak. Large front rotor should have more stopping power. Stuck/sticky eccentric adjuster. Lefty fork can't be used on rack for drop-outs unless an adapter is used. A little heavy. MSRP price too high.
Similar Products Used:
Motobecane Outcast 29
Bike Setup:
Hayes HFX9 brakes, Surley 22 rear cog, Time Alium ATAC pedals.
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike discounted or used. MSRP is only about $150 less than the better spec'ed geared Caffeine 2. Brakes are adequate, but need more power. The Lefty fork makes it unique and works very well. Geared a little tall for Colorado. If you are looking for a factory single speed with front suspension, you will not be disappointed. If you are not sure that a 29er single speed is for you, buy a cheap rigid first. Only 4 chilis for value because $1600 is way too much. 4 chilis overall because of brakes.
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Overall Rating:
