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Submitted by
michael Lawrence
a Downhiller
from wailua
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2007 | | Favoriate Trail: | rim trail | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | this guy | | Strengths: | climbs good, jumps, and can bomb. | | Weaknesses: | if you do any jumps over 8 feet it gets out of control. Not very good geomatry. | | Similar Products Used: | specialized enduro | | Bike Setup: | marizocchi pad z1, fox vannila rc, pro taper. | | Bottom Line: | this bike is good for trail riding and mostly up hill. Not reccomonded for free riding/downhill. If your into cross country/xc this is the bike for you. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marc
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: October 1, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Beefy construction, relatively light weight, plush, low maintenance. | | Weaknesses: | Seat post adjustability, | | Similar Products Used: | Slayer, Heckler, Switchblade, XCE | | Bike Setup: | Fox VRC front and rear, XT, Easton | | Bottom Line: | Great XC/Trail bike.
For most of us, cross country/trail riders who love the downhills but still ride up, this is a great bike. Climbs well, adjustable, plush and controlled downhill.
XC racers look elsewhere, unless your doing endurance events.
| Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kevin Campbell
a Weekend Warrior
from Mississuga,on,Canada
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2002 | | Favoriate Trail: | Kelso | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Sporting Life | | Strengths: | Brodie Electro
Great trail/jumping bike rides smooth and is fun to do some urban with it has some weaknesses in some minor parts for the price you pay. Also has high maintence but otherwise this is a great hard tail to ride around on. | | Weaknesses: | For 1200 dollars candian it doesn't have the best parts (my bottom bracket sucks) | | Similar Products Used: | Some other companys have better bikes for there money I hate to say it but go check out Norco I know someone who just got a norco 400 with a Dj 1 on it, its a sweet bike and if your considering Jumping get it!
But on the other hand if you want something similar to the brodie there is a norco sasqwatch and if you want the same thing with some better compnets check out the Rampage. | | Bottom Line: | All in all the brodie electro is a good bike even though you can get the same frame and better parts and a better fork with Norco. Like a marazochi z5 is the worst fork ever built by marazochi hate to say it I could have got a better bike from Norco, lates
But the electro is a strong smooth riding bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johnny B
a Cross Country Rider
from Roanoke Va
Date Reviewed: January 29, 2002 | | Favoriate Trail: | carvins cove | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Strengths: | adjustability, smooth rear suspension, excellent customer service | | Weaknesses: | no hanger, decals, suspension pin, sits tall, its expensive but worth it. | | Similar Products Used: | fsr,sugar,superlight | | Bike Setup: | z.1 dropoff,hayes disc,king, sun ringle,race face
| | Bottom Line: | Even though intense advises against it, i have mine set up with a longer shock and uzzi dh shock plates. it now gets six inches of rear travel like the new uzzi slx. with this setup it is less adjustable and sits a little high. kind of like when you put the stock shock in the top hole. I am thinking of putting 24 inch wheels on it, but I don't know if they will work with the rear end. The bike rides awesome, a little heavy to climb, but still a very capable climbing bike. I have had some problems with the bike, I broke the suspension pin in half and they sent a new beefier one for free and it only took a week. The first time I ever rode the bike I tore the derailleur hanger off, I almost cried it took me three months to build and 15 minutes into the first ride I tore the hanger off. But again intense came through and sent me a new rear end, this time took a little longer. I can't say enough about the customer service, very helpful.
I have the bike setup as freeride/easy downhill and it works excellent, I hear alot of people say they set theirs up for xc and it also works well, but for me its too heavy for that. This bike is superfun to ride downhill and I end everyride with a smile. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dude
a
from Canada
Date Reviewed: November 3, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay.ca | | Strengths: | Awesome bike, Fox Vanilla RC is sweet, it's an intense duh, sealed catridge bearings | | Weaknesses: | o my this is a damn expensive frame but u get what u pay for | | Similar Products Used: | GT I Drives, Norco Shore, Rocky Mountain Slayer, Brodie Holeshot | | Bike Setup: | Stratos S5, new king ISO's laced to Sun Singlewides, King headset, RaceFace LP crank, Monkeylite carbon bar, BMW stem, end caps, and shinburger pedals (need shin pads with these), XT drivetrain (XTR is crap dad has it and it always brakes), WTB Mutano Raptor 2.4's | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike
That said I had to freeken empty my bank account to get this frame and then sell organs to get the parts. It rides awesome now at 32 pounds. Rear shock was a little soft I am 6"1 190 pounds and 15 years old so I tend to break stuff and the extra weight is welcome. Up here in Canada it isn't really built for the free riding seen but it sure beats my Norco on the climbs.
Well that's all eh.... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Big Al
a Downhiller
from Stratford ontario
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | silly question | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Wheel Goods | | Strengths: | Stiff, strong, adjustable, not that heavy | | Weaknesses: | no replacable hanger(1999)
bushings around shock
main pivot axle
hard to adjust spring on shock while mounted (i can live though)
| | Similar Products Used: | tried - specialized fsr xc
- norco fs'
| | Bike Setup: | race face
esp 9.0sl
Z1 CR
xtr/xt/lx | | Bottom Line: | The main pivot axle/screw is the part that gave me the most trouble. After I blew out the rear shock and got it back (fox has amazing customer service) I managed to snap the axle right in half (oops!). had to wait awhile till i got a replacment (3 weeks). other than that and the non-replacable rear hanger this is bike rides better than the principals daughter (ha). I got mine for an amazing price but if you can get your hands one one do so. Even if you end up not liking it or getting out of biking altogether (totaly hypethetical) the resale value is great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Monkey
a Weekend Warrior
from Diamond Springs, CA
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | Diamond Dam | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | The frame's fully ajustable, sealed pivots, beautiful welds and bullitproof design. | | Weaknesses: | The shock bushing wears out fast | | Similar Products Used: | Ventana El Terramoto, Trek Y Glide, Klien Mantra | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi Z1 bam, Hope disc brakes, RaceFace, Easton Monkey lite | | Bottom Line: | I was the first person in my area to get an Intense. I saw the bike in magazine adds and just had to have one. Thankfully when I got the bike built it rode sweet! I ride cross country but the trails are pretty technical and this bike does it all for me. Great climbing ability, the rear pivot loads up under chian tension and keeps the bobbing to a minimum. Not bad for a bike with almost 5 inches of travel. The ground clearance helps when you're flying over logs or rocks on the trail. The adjustable frame geometry is cool but I haven't messed with it to be honest. This bike has proven to be a fantastic trail bike and I would say if anyone is looking for a high end multipurpose bike this frame ranks at the top of my list. Now I wouldn't recommend buying an $1800 frame sight unseen but in this case I lucked out big time!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Antonio S.
a
from NY
Date Reviewed: April 6, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | Anything Off Road | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | -Adjustable for all types of riding.
-Excellent construction.
-Great chi-chi factor. | | Weaknesses: | -Somewhat expensive.
-Mine doesn't have a replaceable der. hanger or disc mounts(1997 model).
| | Similar Products Used: | -Diamond Back V-Link Pro.
-A couple of others. | | Bike Setup: | Judy 100; Easton bars and post; Raceface crank; Sram 9.0sl; King headset; XTR hubs w/ Sun CR17A rims and DT db spokes; | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow-up review and advise for anyone who is thinking of buying the SL.
When I first got this bike I built it up as heavy "freeride" bike. Before I knew it, I was adding more and more DH stuff and ended up racing it for a season. I didn't do too bad in sport DH but knew I had to go with something bigger (travel) if I wanted to move up. Two years later, I have retired the bike from DH and decided to make it my primary XC bike... WOW! What can I say? I've found this frame's true calling. In full XC setup with light (but durable) components, this bike ROCKS!
If you're looking to buy and build a bike with the Uzzi SL, here are some things you should know- To make this a great XC bike, use a crank with 22/32/42 rings. This is the best setup, otherwise your chain will rub when in in the granny gear. Set the rear shock in the TOP hole to give you a steep head angle. This makes your steering quicker and more precise- better for XC. I've also noticed that the rear suspension will bob alot less in this position. I use a 750 lb spring on my Fox Vanilla and have the prelode set real tight (I weigh 200lbs). This has significantly reduced pedal bobbing while keeping the rear respectively plush (much more so than today's XC dual suspensions) Adjust the seat tower back to give you a longish top tube and use a shorter stem (100-120mm). I also use an Easton monkey lite riser bar to bring the front up a bit. With the rear end, shorten the wheelbase to get better climbing performance and, again, to reduce bobbing. As far as a fork, go with a 4" travel model with coil/oil. Air may be lighter but it won't work as well with the rear (remeber, this ain't no Specialized FSR).
For freeriding or downhilling, use a fork with 5-6" of travel. Set the rear shock in the bottom hole. Increase the wheel base. Use a short stem (40-90mm). Skip the granny gear on the crank- viola!
I've done it all with the Uzzi SL and believe me- it works best as a big man's XC bike. Email me if you have questions. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kees Veninga
a Weekend Warrior
from Harlingen
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | the one that goes up and down | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | A strong frame | | Weaknesses: | It's a suspensionbike with a shock. Shocks tend to blow sometimes......... | | Similar Products Used: | Ventana Marble Peak and Marble Peak FS, Mantis Pro Floater etc... | | Bike Setup: | Varies | | Bottom Line: | This is a update from my original review from 10/14/1997. Bought this bike in june 1997 and haven't had any problems, apart from some blown shocks. For me this is an exception to the rule. The Ventana FS was great but this ones built to last. sTill the same pivots as in 1997. No wear. Still the same paintjob. Apart from scratches, still great. Boutgh some new stickers. The old ones peeld. The new ones don't. Treid various setups and everytime got differrent bikes. I use it a lot in sandy ansalty dunes but this doesn't effect the frame, pivots etc.
Uzzi SL lasts for over two years with out any problems. Need more? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Albuqeruque
Date Reviewed: March 5, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | I love them all | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | excellent craftsmanship, bullet-proof frame, adjustablility, looks great, bearings need no maintenance so far | | Weaknesses: | decals could be better (they can peel) | | Similar Products Used: | GT LTS-1, Pro-Flex, AMP, FSR | | Bike Setup: | Small polished frame, Vanilla RC, Manitou x-vert (100mm), King/517 wheels, XTR, Gripshift 9.0sl, Thompson seatpost, King headset, RaceFace lo-riser bar, Titec stem, Ritchey pedals, | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike 1 year ago (From Kalo, who I would not recommend doing business with). I read all the reveiws I could find at the time and had to make a big leap of faith buying it sight unseen. There was no where around Albuquerque that I could test ride one. I spoke with the people at Intense about which size frame was best for me and I went with the small (I'm 5 8"). From the day I received this bike I have loved it. I wanted something with more travel but didn't want a bike that would suck everytime I climb. This bike fits the bill. The suspension is very adjustable, I can have this bike feeling super squishy or more firm. The Fox vanilla RC is a great shock. Probably the biggest whining I see about this bike is the weight. Ya, its not as light as my girlfriends new K-2 Razorback (24.5 lbs) but the longer travel and super tough frame more than make up for that. Bottom line on this bike was that after owning several bikes over many years I finally wanted to get a true custom bike built up just like I wanted,,,and I got it. If you think this bike might be for you then get it, you will love it | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: January 16, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Stiff, sturdy, adjustable geometry, beautiful machine work, bearings, & welding. | | Weaknesses: | It's expensive and heavy but I wouldn't want to sacrifice the quality or rigidity for a lower price or less weight. | | Similar Products Used: | Salsa hardtail, Marin Mt. Vision | | Bike Setup: | Z-1BAM CR @ 4", Hayes Disks, Bonty Race Disks,Fox Vanilla RC,Enduroraptors, M545 pedals, XT crankset, Titec KTiDH seat, Slimed tubes. An honest 30.1 lb. trailbike | | Bottom Line: | Bought this frame over a similarly equipped Tracer after weighing two complete bikes on the showroom floor. There was less than a half a pound difference (30.1 vs. 29.7). When I read about 26 lb. Uzzy SL's I wonder since I don't have anything really heavy or heavy duty. Anyway, I found the adjustable seat tower to be a huge advantage in setting up the bike for my bullfrog physiognomy. I used the middle hole on the shock link (70.5 degree head tube angle) and the long wheelbase setting. Moving the seat tube forward made the bike climb much better for me without the steering getting too busy.
Riding the bike for the first time I really noticed the higher bottom bracket, but I soon got used to it and I was instantly able to clear rocky trails and deep ruts that had stalled me on my old Mt. Vision. The shallower head tube helped me stay on line in rocky sections and I found myself actually climbing better on rough terrain because I could just put my head down and motor. On a rolling trail that I ride I cleaned the stream crossings for the first time, as the rocks and roots that had thrown me off on the old bike were not even felt with the Uzzy. Although the Uzzy is a full pound heavier than my old bike, it feels lighter, probably due to the Race Disk wheels which are really light.
I initially wanted an air shock in the back and air forks on the front, but ultimately I realized that I wanted the plushness and reliability of coils and oil at both ends, so I went with a Vanilla RC out back and 4" Z-1 CR's on the front and I'm happy I did. I didn't want the weight or complexity of the disk brakes as i thought them unnecessary for my laid back trail riding style, but I found that I had much more control on downhills over the V brake setup of my old bike. If you think that you don't need disks you should really try them on some steep and rough terrain before passing judgement.
So, bottom line is beautiful quality construction, not for weight freaks, very smooth and trouble free, and a surprising climber in rough terrain. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tmathis
a Weekend Warrior
from Alexandria, VA
Date Reviewed: January 6, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Schaffer Farmes | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Durability & Adjustability | | Weaknesses: |
Weight & Price | | Similar Products Used: |
Super V etc... | | Bike Setup: |
Large w/ Z1 Alloy | | Bottom Line: | This is an update from my initial review. I wanted to highlight some issues I think is important for initial buyers:1. First of all, I still love this bike...I went through a love hate period when I was trying to get it set up, but know that the geometry is where I like it, the bike rocks. I ride twisty single-track and short hilly terrain. Shortening the Wheelbase and sitting the shock-bolt to the lowest hole seemed to provide the best ride for the conditions in my area.2. Rear Derailuers: The Shimano M739 (98 XT) seems to work the best with the frame, SRAM might work also. I tried the 99 XT and XTR and the derailuer had a tendency to bang against the frame on bumps and what not. Unless this doesn't bother you...no problems there.2. Front Derailuer: Set it up like any derailuer, but appreciate the chain is going to drag on the chainguide when you are tunning it and the chain is on the smallest ring...perfectly normal.3. Cables: Get a manual or look at a bike that has been set up properly. I recommend removing the shock bolt and letting the rear suspension sag. Cut your cables to this length so that they can respond properly to the varying travel. The same goes for the chain. 4. Fork: 100-mm of travel seems like the best set-up for all around fun riding. I tried the 130-mm Bam and it made the front squirrely and climbing a hassel w/ 100-mm of travel the bike is much easier to control and handles well in all circumstances.In general, once I finally got the bike set up for me, I really like it. I do manage to bring up the rear when riding with my biking-pals except when going downhill. You can still climb anything with this bike, but just not as fast. It's a great bike that demands the rider be in shape...the Tracer w/ the Tazer's coil shock might be a consideration for you if you are less then 180-lbs. I think the SL is a great bike for us bigger guys for a fun-bike.Good Luck! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Amanda Hugenkis
a Weekend Warrior
from Aspen, CO
Date Reviewed: January 6, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Government Trail | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Cool Name, I could make this bike haul as* - but you know its the motor not the bike... | | Weaknesses: |
BB is too high, if you adjust the shock thru bolt to the lowest setting the chain rubs on the front der. It you set the thru bolt on the highest setting the bb is over 13. With the thru bolt set in the only workable position (middle) the bb ht is at least 1 too high. Net result is a bike that is skatey and difficult to hold a line on loose surfaces. It also feels as though you are sitting on top of this bike (as opposed to in it). Very ackward position. I've sold this bike and gone to a YBB and I am much happier. The Tazer is more of the same. I broke this frame once but the customer service was excellent. With the lightest stuff on this bike it was over 25.5 lbs. | | Similar Products Used: |
FSR XC, Tazer, YBB, RacerX | | Bike Setup: |
I had both the xc and sl options. Usually prefering the XC set up with a Fox Alps 4. With the SL I had both the coil over and Alps 5. Chris King, Avid, XTR, Thomson, Easton, etc. | | Bottom Line: | Was once the hot bike and brand but not anymore. There are alot of other bikes which weigh less, cost less, and handle better. I believe the Racer X is a better version than the Uzzi XC, and the new Giant, Fisher Sugar, and Specialized are better versions of the 4 bar/swing link. I enjoyed the bike for a while because of the chi-chi factor - but, eventually, this wears off.... The truth hurts. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tiski
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Jose, CA
Date Reviewed: November 25, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Wilder Ranch, Santa Cruz | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Stability, Construction, adjustability, Looks and performance | | Weaknesses: |
Weight, at least 2lbs overweight to be considered ideal. | | Similar Products Used: |
Santa Cruz Heckler | | Bike Setup: |
Marz. Z1, XTR, ESP gripshift 9.0, Mavic 517 | | Bottom Line: | Great bike!As much as I hate to admit it..(hate having the same thing as others) The bike was a noticable difference compared to my Santa Cruz Heckler. I didn't believe the salesman when he first told me. It may not climb as well(due to weight) but on it makes it up on everything else. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a Weekend Warrior
from Tessin, Switzerland
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Swiss Alps | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
adjustable frame, aggressive look and performance, extremely strong ...and so on | | Weaknesses: |
??? (talking to me?) | | Similar Products Used: |
lots... but they suck | | Bike Setup: |
Manitou X-Vert R, Altek BL-20 Custom, SRAM ESP 9.0, Chris King, Sun Rhyno Lite DH... | | Bottom Line: | no doubt, with this frame you're always the king on trail
take some time to find the perfect setup, and then... nothing's gonna stop youthank you, Jeff! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
T. Mathis
a Weekend Warrior
from Alexandria, Va
Date Reviewed: November 1, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Shaeffer Farms | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Adjustable Frame (headtube angle, Cockpit Length, etc); FSR like rear-suspension linkage; looks; and performance. | | Weaknesses: |
Integrated Deraileur Hanger (debateable)and stickers (they peel). | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondale Super V 900
Mantra
FSR | | Bike Setup: |
Front Shock (130mm Z-1 Bam), Rear Shock (Fox Vanilla RC), full XT set-up (8-spd) but with Grip Shifters (Plasma), EASTON Monkey Lights HBs, MG60 Stem (cool stem), Chris King HS, SPD 636s, Sun Mammoth rims (36 spoked fat-boy specials!). | | Bottom Line: | Although I've only had this bike one weekend and one ride I'm totally blown away by its performance. Granted my last ride was a Cannondale Super V and there is just no comparison between the two! I spent a gingerly six-hours building up my UZZI and the whole time I was in awe by the engineering that went into the frame. It is readily apparent that this bike can take some serious abuse. There are three ways one can alter the geometry of the bike: you can adjust the seat-post to lengthen the cock-pit; the rear-shock lower pin adjusts the head-tube angle, BB height, and wheelbase; also, it looks like you can adjust the wheelbase by changing the bearing location near the drop-outs(???). Once I finished building the bike, I was a bit skeptical about how it would perform due to the amount of cash I threw into it cause when I lifted it off of my bike stand I was quite 'impressed' by the weight, what a tank! However, once I jumped on it-- it felt like a 24-lb rocket. The ride was excellent, I took it to Wakefield-Accotink Park (a local ride for us DC Metro folks) and I could still handle all the ascents of old...granted it took a bit more effort. The pogo effect of the Z1 Bams was primarily the culprit for making the ascents more challenging. Tight Single-Track no problem, in fact (maybe its just me), but some of the more technical turns seemed easier on the Uzzi. In summary, the bike is worth every cent I spent on it and I'm constantly day dreaming of taking it on to all of my favorite trails. The geometry of the frame negates alot of the weight. I bought this bike cause I'm a 220-lb Clydesdale who loves riding cross-country; I rarely go around things only over or through and I was breaking everything on my old bike and bending rims constantly. Although, I only have one ride on this baby, I was throwing it around as hard as I could and I don't think I even challenged the frame. Granted I'm no pro-biker, I just out there for fun. I love this bike!!! Oh, I purchased my Uzzi SL through Kalo Mountain Cycles; if I had the cash for another bike, I give them my business again. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frankie Inburrito
a Racer
from Hasselt, Belgium
Date Reviewed: October 11, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Da Locos Liège Belgium | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Superb handling, Great looks, adjustability, lateral stifness, strong indeed ! | | Weaknesses: |
Again the decals ! | | Similar Products Used: |
All the big brands Fullys | | Bike Setup: |
Complete XTR gruppo, Pace Evo II MCCD 37 fork (the best ever?), Intense tyres (ofcourse), Chris King (who else?), Azonic, RIngle Moby | | Bottom Line: | After riding years as a sponsored rider, the Intense SL was the first bike I had to pay for with my own money. I had to sell a kidney for it, but it was worth it ! The frame sells over here for more then (a good paid) 3 month salary. Nevertheless, it's worth every penny! Being member of Da Locos, Kranked-type of riders, this bike gets abused quite a lot, I even race DH and Boarder cross on it. But even after a hard day of abuse, it smiles at me asking me for more! This is one SM bike, who can take a lot, and I mean a lot. I also ride Xcountry with it, and hammer it pretty hard, still it rules above everything else I've ever ridden. I wanna thank Jeff and everybody else at Intense for the pleasure they are giving me everytime I go out and have a blast on my bike. Afterall this is the ULTIMATE playbike in the world, this is for everybody who KNOWS FEAR, conquers it and lives through it ! I wished I was on it right now, instead of typing this report, but the word has to be spread : if in the Year 3000 someone looks for a description for the word Freeride there should be an Intense SL picture next to it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross-Country Rider
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Peak Ride | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Fully adjustable, almost maintenance free frame | | Weaknesses: |
um.... 3 lbs too heavy?
Thinking about a Tracer | | Similar Products Used: |
Conejo, Santa Cruz, Specialized | | Bike Setup: |
XTR, Mavic 517, Bomber Z-1, Fox air vanilla RC | | Bottom Line: | The finest machine I have ever ridden! Just point it and go. Mechanically sound and completely reliable. The bike instantly transforms any rider into superman, with the ability to clear boulder fields while moving faster than a speeding bullet. Even if you pick the wrong line, the bike gives you every chance to recover. But it still climbs well. A genuine 27 LB delight to ride. I tear the bike apart and service it every spring, (seals, oil, bearings, etc.) then ride a full season with no maintenance worries.I originally rode the bike for a year with an ALPS-5, then switched to the Fox Air Vanilla RC with the lockout. If you can, GET THE RC W/ LOCKOUT! The ride is super plush, and the lockout effectively gives you a hardtail for long fire road climbing.I also give 5 stars to my LBS, Colorado Cyclist, for excellent service and support | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria
Date Reviewed: July 23, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
The dump | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
The bike is still amazing! | | Weaknesses: |
shock pin does wear (though this has been addressed with new stainless steel shock pin instead of aluminum). | | Similar Products Used: |
Uzzi DH, AMP (snicker-this says similar; they do both look like bikes but that's as far as it goes!) | | Bike Setup: |
TC shock (now RC), Z1 bam, Hope pro front disk, Hayes rear. Disk-go-tech CK rear hub, world class Ti BB, WTB, SST.98 saddle, xt/xtr, Time ATAC's, I stuck with old school flat bar/bar ends and get made fun of! | | Bottom Line: | This is a product update/ review of KaloMTB where I bought this entire bike from. I still love the bike but I am affraid I must HARSHLY criticize business practise at KaloMTB.com. I felt entirely shafted and at the short end of a rope because I had to front the full sum of money before anything was done. I Made the initial order from KaloMTB sometime in early JUNE, 1998. I was told at the time that it would take about 1.5 to 2 months MAX. Delays, delays, delays..... I was given the complete run around until I finally was told that my package was shipped (this was about SEPTEMBER 3-5th, 1998!). This was obviously mis-information which got me excited to finally get my bike but boy was I surprised to recieve my package on OCTORBER 21st, 1998! The package was actually shipped on October 10th or so. Oh it doesn't end there though, far from it! The package was incomplete. It didn't include pedals, lights, gloves and a couuple of extras I ordered that were forgotten. I was willing to overlook this becasue Daddy got himself a new toy! I talked to Bret right away and was told yes he would get the missed items off to me ASAP(yah right). I called him back in mid November to inquire about the package once again and to pass around some ideas about getting my front Hayes brake to work better. To his credit he ultimately offered to upgrade my used front Hayes to the *very* soon to be released Hope pro for the new difference. I was ecstatic about this and told him to wait off on sending the remaining items until the Hope pro arrived in THREE WEEKS TIME ACCORDING TO HIM. That was on November 18th. Fast forward to April 6th, 1999! I finally got my package of lights and hope disk but still no TIME ATAC's! I called him and The word for the ATAC's was another wait of about a month (this is KaloMTB time so I think you double it and add 16 like Fahrenheit to Celcius conversions ;-)). Ok at this point I lost it. I had continuously been blown off, and essentially used for 10 months! It is really unfortunate that this transaction had to happen this way. Unfortunate for me at least. Feedback from KaloMTB is the biggest problem. Going 5 months without anything, not even a simple e-mail is no way to treat a customer who just spent a small fortune. Bret seems to me like a very nice guy who may start with the right intentions but along the way really gets sidetract and loses touch with customers. He is very knowledgable but as far as my experience, I cannot refer others to him. I know every bike mail order house has bad stories about them but it seems to me most of them aren't this bad and most get dealt with promptly and rectify the situation. In my case I experienced a year delay on some components, never saw other components, and left the deal with only one request of getting a bill sent to me for record. Apparently nothing has changed because I requested this in May '99 and now it is almost August. I could be one of the unlucky ones but with so many coincidences it just doesn't seem likely. The worst part of this ordeal was that I felt essentially powerless to get the product shipped because the ball was in his court so to say because he had the money! All in all if I had things to do differently, I definitely would! For starters, a different shop would get my business. I am not the type of customer to get angry at some delays because I know how the bike industry works (delays are common and I come to expect them) but this was just completely unreal. bottom line from me: shop KALOMTB.com and be warned. People will be pissed at this review because I know he has a lot of support; he had my support too until about february 1999 when I finally decided things were just unacceptable! anyway, enough of this. Time to ride my baby. cya | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Antonio S.
a Racer
from NY
Date Reviewed: July 9, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
The Cave New Mexico | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Super strong frame
plush
awsome looks
lots o' adjustability
great customer service | | Weaknesses: |
PRICE! | | Similar Products Used: |
GT RTS
Jamis Dakar
Diamonback V-Link | | Bike Setup: |
Judy 100
All XTR
Easton post/bars
Sun CR17A | | Bottom Line: | THE ultimate FreeRide bike. This bike will set you free! I used it for XC in 1997. I rigged it up for DH in 1998. Now that I've bought a Santa Cruz Super 8, I've turned it back into a XC dream machine. It can handle ANYTHING you throw at it. Great suspension action with minimal pogoing (as long as you don't stand and hammer). Decals, paint, and overall finsh are superb. (so don't listen to the others) GET THIS FRAME (if you can afford it) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DH Boy
a Weekend Warrior
from So Cal
Date Reviewed: May 28, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Bottom Line: | Don't have one but thinking about it. Would some of you UZZI owners cough up the goods and let us know if they are worth the bucks. Trying to get the ball rolling. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve N
a Cross-Country Rider
from Southern California
Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Excellent suspension, plush ride, strong climber, no flex, easy to tune, easy to set-up, no squeaks, | | Weaknesses: |
none to report | | Similar Products Used: |
Amp B4, Amp B5, Specialized, Ellsworth Truth | | Bike Setup: |
Full XTR, Zokes Z1, Bontrager Wheel-set | | Bottom Line: | I was initially looking at the Amp B5 or the Specialized to replace my Amp B4, and I also rode the Intense and Ellsworth as a comparison. This was not a last minute decision, but many months of research and planning. The Intense had the best reviews and the best ride, and was a few bucks cheaper than the comparable Ellsworth.
I have had it out on about ten rides, and I can't believe what I've been missing. I love this bike. It fits like a glove. I have never been more comfortable. Ascending or descending, just point it and turn on the power. It goes over anything smoothly. As it stands now, I have only accolades for Intense. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Engelhorn
a Weekend Warrior
from Fall City, Wa
Date Reviewed: March 21, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Lake Wenatchee | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Customer service, incredibly plush ride, adjustability, cool looks | | Weaknesses: |
poor cable routing, poor attention to details from factory, decals | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondale Super V, Santa Cruz Heckler, Santa Cruz Superlight | | Bike Setup: |
Mostly XTR, Z-1 Bam, Magura HS-33's, Race Face Cranks | | Bottom Line: | I reviewed this bike last September and gave it a three star because of some initial problems with the bike. I still think the original problems should have been addressed at the factory, but the customer service has been outstanding. Mike at Intense has done everything in his control to make me happy. Bottom line is this thing rocks. No it is not a cross country racer, at least not the way I have it set up, but for pure comfort and stability, it is great. I got a Santa Cruz Superlight to use when I'm doing more climbing, but for pure fun, this bike is a kick. The adjustability is great, the frame is stiff and again, the customer service is outstanding. I have to upgrade my initial rating. Five stars all the way. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
grinch
a Weekend Warrior
from B.C
Date Reviewed: March 20, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Nield rd | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
customer service with help from LBS | | Weaknesses: |
sell you wife,kids and mother and you will have enough for one,if you rape the bike you were riding to build it up | | Similar Products Used: |
tried a few I will not name but none compaired | | Bike Setup: |
jr T,xt,lx setup, | | Bottom Line: | This bike has become an extension of my arms and legs I cannot say enough good about the way this bike feels.every time I ride it feels better.It was a fair bit of change but hey I could die tomorrow,But not on this bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lance Laurendine akaBike Dude!
a Cross-Country Rider
from Fresno, Ca.
Date Reviewed: March 17, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Titus Canyon, Death Valley, Ca. | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Four bar link, sealed bearings, lateral stiffness, adjustability, maintanence, or the lack of,. Looks, paint, color combinations, Reputation and customer
satisfaction | | Weaknesses: |
Cheesy Decals, cable routing | | Similar Products Used: |
Santa Cruz, Jamis, Trek and Schwinn full suspension bikes. | | Bike Setup: |
My bike is a medium 18 inch black and silver anodize pointed by a Marzocchi Z-1 BAM with progressives and 10wt oil and suspended by a Fox Vanilla-R coil/oil with a 850 spring for support. | | Bottom Line: | Being a rider who not only uses the bike for off road pleasure and exercise, I also use
it as my daily commute transportation to and from work, as well as my vehicle of choice
for getting me where-ever else I have to be. The suspension is infinitely tunable allowing me to ride the streets in the super plush mode and off road in the instant response setting with everything in between. The cocpit and bottom bracket height are also adjustable to fit almost any riders body type; short legs, long arms, etc. I currently have 1993 miles on the bike and have had no maintanence problems whatsoever.
My only complaints are the decals, there where air pockets under all of them and you can peel them off. Clear coat them on the gloss frames and dull coat on the anodize ones would give the frame a much cleaner and professionl looking appearance. Come on guys its your name on the thing. The other minor complaint is the cable routing. A completely sealed cable system would be much better with the cables running under the top tube to the brake and shifter. Other than those two trivial items the bike is a dream to ride and own. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a cross-country rider
from Danville,CA
Date Reviewed: March 8, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the Uzzi XC. Since it doesn't have its own reviews, I'll add mine here. I equipped my XC with a 99' Judy SL up front and the frame comes stock with a Alps 5R in the back. This is a killer bike! It handles tight singletrack like no other bike I've ridden and it climbs exceptionally well also (weighs about 26.5 lbs.). I got a deal on the new Magura Louise Disc Brakes and I'm glad I popped the extra dough for them. They make this rig a joy to ride in any type of conditions and really accentuate the handling of the bike. With all that said, this bike really turns heads as well. I didn't buy it becuase it looks cool but its fun to check out the double takes you get while riding it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee
a weekend warrior
from NYC
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
My frame was delivered to my local shop on Friday, and I have been smiling ever since. Right out of the box, the frame got stares from everyone in the store. This baby is bad! Joy (as I named her) is ball-burnished with red stickers. Uncertain if it was the ethical thing to do, but forced to because of a lack of funds, I raped (as my mechanic stated) my '96 GT Avalanche. Azonic riser bar, Syncros double-hinged stem, XTR brakes/shifters/f + r deraileurs/bottom bracket, Crossmax wheels, WTB saddle. To compliment the 4 1/2 rear travel, I paired it with a White Bros. DC110 for 4 1/2 of travel in the front. Actual Weight=27.2 lbs. WHAT A RIDE! People who don't know THINK the bike is bad. People who do know KNOW the bike is bad.I brought Joy for her first ride on Saturday, and I have been high ever since. Incredibly plush and predictable. Technical lines where I would have been forced to bail on my hardtail, she plowed right through. I WAS SIMPLY AMAZED BY HER CONFIDENCE. I was taking 6 ft. drop-offs on my hardtail, and can only imagine what I'll be tackling now. The plushness has not limited my riding in any way, although you will notice slight bobbing when pedaling. This bike will take you to the next level.Nothing but perfection, so 5 chilis. Will update with more miles... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sin dogg
a racer
from new york city
Date Reviewed: January 12, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS BIKE IS UNREAL! I WORKED IN A BIKE SHOP FOR SEVEN YEARS AND HAVE OWNED AND RIDEN OVER A DOZEN OF THE MAJOR MANUFACTURER'S TOP END BIKES(SPECIALIZED, MONGOOSE, TREK, DIAMONDBACK). AFTER PURCHASING THE INTENSE, I WILL NEVER GO BACK TO A MASSED PRODUCED TAIWAN MADE PIECE OF CRAP AGAIN! I RIDE XC MOST OF THE TIME ON THE SL BUT LAST YEAR I GOT INTO DH AND FELL IN LOVE. INSTEAD OF PURCHASING A $6000 DOWNHILL RIG, I BOUGHT A WHITE BROS. UD150 FORK, TITEC DH SADDLE, AND A HEAVY DUTY WHEELSET (TOTAL $1200). WHAT I DO IS SWAP THESE BAD BOYS WITH THE LIGHTER XC PARTS WHENEVER I RACE DH. I'VE WON 3 OUT OF 8 SPORT CLASS DH RACES WITH THIS SETUP. THIS BIKE ALSO KICKS ASS WHEN I RIDE XC! IT'S PLUSH, TRACKS WELL, AND ASCENDS NICELY. IT IS A LITTLE HEAVY SO DON'T EXPECT TO RACE XC. DON'T WORRY THOUGH, JUST JUMP EVERYTHING IN SITE AND YOU'LL FORGET ABOUT ANY SILLY XC RACES. BESIDES DOWNHILL IS SOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH FUN! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a weekend warrior
from Victoria, Canada
Date Reviewed: January 9, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Allright sorry I've left this off far too long. Soon after I posted this reveiw I called intense and talked to Mike there. He was very very helpful. He pointed out that the alignment problem is not due to mis welded parts but because the cartrige bearing was not properly fit to the machined aluminum. Once the bearing is pressed in it should be totally solid. the reason why the swingarm is popping it out is because this frame is also setup to fit a 140mm rear axle. Therefore useing a 135mm axle puts a slight amount of force on the bearing. Anyway before I bore you all with the detials, the problem was immediatley resolved by sending me a seatstay linkage. It got to me asap and I was very appreciative of this. I haven't found time to install it yet but when you look at the detail on this bike's linkage it is outstanding. He also sent me a spring which solved my problem of being undersprung. In the mean time, I am thouroughly impressed with the service. I also got a couple more rides in on this thing and wow-it is a big adjustment to a bike this plush. That is a good thing though. It opens a whole new realm of comfort. You do have to get used to it though and ride it as a plush bike or else it can kick you in the ass if you treat it like a hardtail. The only negative side to having 4 front and rear is that on crawling steep decents, the rider really has to compensate by pushing really far back. You can do anything you could on a hardtail with this bike but you just have to ride it slightly different and besides this will get you there in comfort and style as well! I'm sure I will keep you updated becasue I am totally pumped about this bike. Oh yah and as far as the hayes front brake, I have ordered a new hope pro brake for the front only and I'll let you know when/If I ever get it..... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andy
a weekend warrior
from Victoria
Date Reviewed: October 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Allright, so I finally get my bike....FINALLY! I had it built with the vanilla TC shock which is really really plush. If intense offers a vanilla air I might consider that now but we'll see(1/2 to a full pound difference). I matched it with the only fork that belongs on this bike....Z1 bam. baby it's a plush machine. I got the hayes disks on there and so far I have mixed reviews(I'd consider the Louise now instead). no maintainance prob's so far on the brakes, just slow speed modulation under heavy braking is inconsistent. I have some complaints on the frame build itself so far though. The chainstays |
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$ 1850.00
