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Gary Fisher
1999 Joshua F3
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Average Rating
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4.56/5
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# of Reviews
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45
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MSRP
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$ 1399.99
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Weight
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Description:1999 Gary Fisher Joshua F3, mountain bike, front & rear suspension, Mountain Mix components, Answer Manitou SX E, 3.15" travel fork
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Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2008 | | Favoriate Trail: | Walnut Creek | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | Buck's Bikes | | Strengths: | Unbelievably reliable | | Weaknesses: | Front forks just suck. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Kaitai | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except front fork replaced with a Manitou R-Seven | | Bottom Line: | Over the years I've swapped bikes with several people for a downhill run, climb, jump, etc. while in the woods because someone got a new bike and wants to convince me to do the same. In the end, almost every time I'm the one hearing, "Damn that's a sweet bike" It's just smooth, everywhere you take it. Rear-shock lockout is awesome for the climb, though my lockout no longer works (probably just a bad cable). I personally recommend screwing in the rear shock collar more than you think you need to. This will help keep the front wheel high when launching off a ledge. A newer-tech fork with more travel and less weight will also help this bike feel more limber in-flight and at launch. While my riding buddies are back-saddle hangin on for life, i'm in the saddle pedaling past them. On climbs I get my arse whooped, but that's not because of the bike. In fact I usually think to myself while my legs are on fire that I'm surprised I made it to the top at all. It feels very linear when climbing; I'm getting out everything I put in.
I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a dual suspension bike. Obviously if anyone is reading this, they see the F3 on ebay or something since it's an obsolete bike. It's worth it: buy it! I've ridden several $2k and up bikes that are new, and I like my bike even more after riding theirs. Swap the Jett fork with something new, and get clipless pedals. If you can find one (I haven't) get the F2 rear triangle, which is aluminum. The F3 rear triangle is steel.
I would NOT recommend this bike to anyone who is into gram-shaving. While I do think the bike is heavy and could benefit greatly from the basic swap-outs mentioned above, I guarantee instant fun if you go straight to the trail with the bike completely stock. I rode the bike bone-stock for 2 years, and replaced the front fork after it busted and I happened on a sweet deal on a Manitou R-Seven 100mm, and I have now realized the dream of having the ultimate bike. If you're a beginner don't forget to get clipless pedals set up, if you can afford it, right off the bat. Just get it done; you will eventually, I promise. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard Bryant Bryant
a Weekend Warrior
from Birmingham, UK.
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2001 | | Favoriate Trail: | Anything Technical (includes riding cliff ledges coz this bike can...) | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Strengths: | i used to ride a much heavier cheaper and much much more crappy full sus (£150 and a worthless piece of.....)made of steel weighing in at aroud 2-3 times the weight of this...
Gary Fisher is a man with his head screwed on when it comes to designing mtb's i have found no more comfortable bike in my long history of bikes... this is the most beautifull best handleing best shifting bike i have ever ridden... it the rare handlebar mounted RockShox lockout is a great addition to the fine sus setup it may not be the lightest f/s bike in the world but it behaves like it is... and that colour... everyone should have this bike it is marvelous | | Weaknesses: | notthin' i can't fix.... and nearly every other bike feels cramped after riding this for a while, the problem is the other bikes... | | Similar Products Used: | there ain't nothin to touch it apart from another F3 | | Bike Setup: | stock, going to upgrade forks to coils from elastomer respray same orange with a metalic blue backend | | Bottom Line: | Most beautifull riding, handling, looking bike I've ridden... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Yogi12621
a Weekend Warrior
from West Chester, PA USA
Date Reviewed: August 8, 2001 | | Favoriate Trail: | Woodlawn | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1399.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Line | | Strengths: | Nice travel, damping control good for uphills | | Weaknesses: | Rear (Shimano XT) derailleur is weak; Water-bottle is hard to reach (suggest a water-backpack) | | Similar Products Used: | Sugar 4, Cannondale | | Bike Setup: | Factory Setup, tune up after every ride | | Bottom Line: | A good bike for weekend warriors, but has swayed me to like hardtails better because its not quite superb for downhill. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Per Nystedt
a Weekend Warrior
from Stockholm Sweden
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2001 | | Favoriate Trail: | Hellas | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$1350.00 | | Purchased At: | Cykel spinn | | Strengths: | The faster the more stable | | Weaknesses: | LX front der. Whater bottle some what difficult to reach. | | Bike Setup: | XT rear der. LX front der. Bontrager wheels, Manitou SX e frint damper, Rock shox deluxe rear damp. | | Bottom Line: | Best ever tried!! Nice rides in hyper speed! Stable as a rock! Nice sitting position! "On the fly" damping is super!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Juan Latorre
a Cross Country Rider
from Santiago, CHILE
Date Reviewed: February 8, 2001 | | Favoriate Trail: | El Molino, Lo Barnechea | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$10000.00 | | Purchased At: | Frame in Chile, rest in USA | | Strengths: | Joshua's F3: There is no better frame geometry for an all arround bike in the entire world. The rest can be upgraded. Is firm, descends well and with a rear suspension lock can be a versatile climber. It´s also strong. | | Weaknesses: | Urgent need for upgrading the whole set of components. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Raven, Intense | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Supernova 20mm axle front suspension, Fox Float RC rear, full XTR, Race Face Next crank with rings, Mavic 317 front wheel with Magura HUB, Rolf Dolomite rear wheel Rolf Hub, Hayes discs front and rear, 2,1 Ritchey tires, Kore Elite stem, Easton Carbon Riser bar, LP Carbon barends, Thompson seatpost, Selle Italia saddle, Chris King headset, and some other expensive gear. | | Bottom Line: | After years, and no limited budget, searching for a dream bike for someone who needs to climb as well as descend and do some cross country, the Gary Fisher Joshua F3 definitely has the best frame ever. No Intense, Kestrel or Cannodale Raven would match the capabilities of this frame. Chile's 4000 mile long mountain range will always require a bicicle able to go up as well as descend. But it urges the change and upgrade of parts. Take this frame and follow the rest of the parts described, and you'll have the best money can buy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig Duffy
a Cross Country Rider
from Union, NJ, USA
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | Heartshorne or Chimney Rock NJ | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Equipe Sports VT | | Strengths: | Frame Geometry, This bike is very comfortable and stable. Rear Shock lockout, brakes. | | Weaknesses: | Crankset ('99 Deore LX 9 sp.) | | Bike Setup: | Raceface Turbine LP crankset, Profile Barends, ODI Team Yeti lockon grips, Sella Italia saddle, Speedplay Frog pedals, XT rear derailur (don't know if this was standard) | | Bottom Line: | I love the bike. It's very fast and comfortable for my body type, and the Genesis frame geometry makes it so stable on climbs and descents. Just to let you know, I'm 6' and 185 lbs.
However I had serious problems with the crankset (Deore LX 9 sp.) that came with the bike. After only 125 miles I broke the chain 4 or 5 times and broke several teeth off of the middle ring before I decided to upgrade to a real set of cranks (Raceface Turbines). The raceface's make a world of difference. They're also 9 speed so I know that the problem wasn't related to having too many gears like so many people think. These shift perfectly, even after taking a beating. They are also so stiff that you can really feel a difference on climbs. They also cut off almost 3/4 of a pound which helps this somewhat heavy bike.
I changed the grips to the ODI lockjaw grips after experiencing throttle grip with the stock grips and a pair of Answer's that I tried. The ODI's are unbelievably awesome and I'd recommend them to anyone.
I also went to change the saddle to a Sella Italia with a little gel spot for your special spot, but it actually felt worse than the stock WTB.
Wheels are really nice and light. I taco'd the front wheel on a botched jump, but that was my fault.
I also switched the Bontrager pedals to a more advanced system that was easier to click into, the Seedplay Frogs. They are far superior to any SPD style pedal. Give them a week and you'll be a believer, trust me....
The one part that I'm kind of unsure of is the rear shock (stock Rock Shock). The dampening seems off to me. I usually end up riding with the "On the Fly" Lockout engaged a little bit but not locked out. It definitely helps the bounciness of the shock with the dampening completely open. However I love the ability to completely lock out the rear shock. On any long uphill fireroads or the very rare road that I have to ride on, this feature is awesome. The bike still doesn't bob much at all even when the shock is not locked out, but it's still nice when you want to completely lock it out. I want to try replacing the shock (I see that others have the same complaint), but I don't want to give up the rear lockout feature. When I ride with it just a little locked out it's perfect.
Overall I love the bike. Once I fixed the cranks, I haven't had a single problem and especially no chain suck that someone else said. The bike's awesome. I've taken some serious falls on rock with it and it always comes up similing and in one piece (I wish I could say the same for me)!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
carl
a Weekend Warrior
from havelock nc usa
Date Reviewed: August 25, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | any trails with hills!!! | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | bicycle outfitters | | Strengths: | awesome geometry. very solid feeling bike. I love the on the fly lockout. I cant see how people live without it | | Weaknesses: | seat is slightly uncomfortable and the front shock is way too plush. I have never had a fork bottom out as easily as this. however that is an easy upgrade | | Similar Products Used: | have been riding fishers since 94' have had a montare, a paragon, a mt. Tam and a super caliber. | | Bike Setup: | still pretty stock for now. new front shock in the near future. and probably a riser bar. I bought a THE fender with this bike and wouldnt recomend it to my worst enemy it made too much noise and bottomed out into the tire making a horrible noise every time you hit a bump. but it looked good on the bike and now looks good in my parts box | | Bottom Line: | awsome bike thanks again fisher and Bicycle outfitters in brockport NY. bike just needs a little refinement to make perfect in my book. i would have given it more chilis if I could!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phil
a Cross Country Rider
from Harleysville, PA
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | Dear Path, Jim Thorp | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1299.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycling Spoken, Cary, NC | | Strengths: | Can really take a beating. Few mecanical problems. Fun to ride. Geometry is great! | | Weaknesses: | Rear Shock too heavy not very adjustable. I experianced a lot of flex and bobbing with the Rock Shock Coil Spring that came standard.
The choice of the rear shock I assume was just a pricing decission, F2 & F1 came with higher end air shocks. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Procaliber 1999 | | Bike Setup: | Replaced the rear shock recently with the Canecreek AD-10
What an upgrade! Improved heavier feel of the bike significantly, plus reduced bobbing on climbs. Now it rides more like a hard tail, except when you need it to absorb a hit. | | Bottom Line: | The frame and most of the components are great, but upgrading the rear shock is a must. Probably won't find many new F3s in shops now, but if you can get one used or new at a good price, buy it and upgrade the rear shock.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Luke Ibis
a Weekend Warrior
from Sioux Falls, SD, USA
Date Reviewed: July 7, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | Mickelson/Centennial Trail Systems | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Plush ride, great components, "on-the-fly" rear lockout feature, perfect Genesis Geometry - You made me a believer Gary!!!! Almost everything about this bike is just perfect for me | | Weaknesses: | Stock saddle incredibly uncomfortable. Weird/unusable bottle cage locations. | | Similar Products Used: | I tried out a Specialized FSR and a GT XCR-6000 with I-drive. I also considered the new Sugar 3, but ended up going with the Joshua because of the coil/hydraulic rear shock. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, although I'm replacing the saddle with a Specialized Body Geometry model ASAP | | Bottom Line: | Well, what can I say? This is a really wonderful bike. I'm not a racer at all, I mainly ride rail trails or in the city and occasionally try to tackle some technical terrain and the Joshua F3 handles it all really great. The Genesis Geometry is not just a gimmick...it is really something and I think it's a revolution. I've never ridden a bike that fits and handles so well. I was a little hesistant about buying a full suspension bike, partially because I'm a big guy (6'1", 240 or so) but a test ride calmed my fears. It climbs perfectly with very little bobbing, and the rear shock can be locked out on the for an feel that is very much like a good hardtail. I considered the Sugar 3, but ended up going with the '99 Joshua F3 for a couple reasons. First, the Sugar has a super-plush Cane Creek air shock which is nice, but makes quick adjustments a pain in the ass (in my opinion). With the Joshua you can stop and turn the coil to a firmer or softer setting or just lock it out totally. With the Sugar you'll have to carry an air pump, and that is something I did'nt want to do. Second, I got a really great deal on the bike because it was a '99 model and on closeout.
The stock Wilderness Trail SSTK saddle sucks. I really, really hate it. It's almost instantly uncomfortable, and I recommend replacing with a better one right away.
By the way, I heard Fisher downgraded the Joshuas for 2000, so you might want to check that out. I suppose they are trying to sell Sugars now, just business. If you can find a '99 model Joshua F3 buy it...I'm sure the new ones left are closeout models now. Racers will probably be dissapointed because it's a little on the heavy side, but that ain't me. If you're a casual rider who wants a great high performance FS bike, you won't be dissapointed. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta Ga, USA
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | The Joshua F3 rides great. I love the Manitou fork it came i with it went well with the color of the bike. the bike is very stiff, no bobbing especially with the on the fly lock-out it came with. The wheelset it came with is amazing-the Bontrager Race. i have loved this bike. | | Weaknesses: | The only weakness i've seen is the cranks it came with-the STX-RC, but thats a Shimano problem not Gary Fisher. THis bike is an all around awesome bike. | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher Joshua F3, Easton CT2 handlbar, soon to have a Manitou X-Vert Super fron fork, ROck SHox delux rear (has served me well), Bontrager Race wheelset. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great for any cross country, freerider who isnt a weight freak, even though the weight isnt half bad on the bike. Its dependable and can withstand harsh conditions very well. A great bike for anyone with a pulse. I bought my bike at a close-out sale, not knowing much about the bike. I got it for 500 bucks which is an absolute steal. The bike is good for short XC rides or long hauls through rocky trails, i.e. Tsali, or Soap Creek. Great bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe Williams
a Cross Country Rider
from Chittenango, NY, 13037
Date Reviewed: March 5, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | Great Bear | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Stiff and Solid Frame, Lock out rear shock, she's a kickin biatch on the hills. Funky color. | | Weaknesses: | Alittle hefty but I like a big w/ a little meat on her. Stupid bottle cage, but can be easily fixed w/ a hydration system. | | Similar Products Used: | Mongoose.......don't ever ride a goose
Fisher (Big Sur)....Sweet hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Raceface crankset | | Bottom Line: | Gary Fisher has shown again that he knows his bikes. Sure, some of the componentry isn't that hot but you have got to rememeber the stock price is only $1,350. Most people who have reviewed Joshua beat the piss out of her. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a good dual suspension bike. Don't buy the 2000 Joshua b/c they crapped it out. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad Fontaine
a Downhiller
from Vancouver Island CANADA!!!
Date Reviewed: February 6, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | The whole dang North Shore!!! | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Sweet geometry
Stable handling
Ravenous climber
| | Weaknesses: | Some lead lined spec components
Rear shock bleeds(Rock Shox problem!!!)
Bottle mount is in the most useless spot!!!
Cable routing hits the frame and rubs into the tubing
Damn honky stickers wont come off(but I love her anyways) | | Similar Products Used: | Trek
GT | | Bike Setup: | Specialized team master/control (20-25psi)
Easton carbon riser bar and seat post
No rear lock-out
No bar ends
Re-routed cables(so they don't touch the frame)
Never use the bottle mount
half inch or so sag | | Bottom Line: | Sweet riding bike with freakish color(i like it)!!! Stock tires were too tame for the coast, needed some meat on her. I though the lock out wasn't necessary so I took it off. Magazines complain that it bobs on long uphill "paved" climbs. GET OFF THE PAVEMENT!!! CARS GO THERE!!! If you don't mash you'll be ok. If you need to ride on the road.. maybe. If you can't ride uphill without mashing... maybe. Just another piece of handlebar clutter to make my knees bleed. I swapped the bars for a riser, didn't need carbon fiber, just wanted carbon fiber. Riser bars are nice for out here, not just a fad!!! Stupid bottle mount!!! Have to ride more carefully at night with a battery down there, don't want to tear out the mount screws. Not exactly the most hygenic place to put something that will go in your mouth anyways(water bottle not the battery). As heavy as it is it climbs as good as any. Wicked geometry for climbing!!! Slimmy rocks, loose boulders, slick roots, logs...sweet!!! Wicked geometry!!! If you can't keep up in a climb your not strong enough anyways so quit whining and keep riding!!! If it's too heavy you'll just get stronger or go home. Besides, components don't last for ever, by lighter replacements. To note on other reviews:
I have never had anymore chain suck on this bike as any other. (CLEAN YOUR CHAIN!!!)
Bike wont shift properly??? Take it to somebody who can actually set it up properly.
If you fumble off six foot drops or land like a lead mango, yes this fork will bottom out. (WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT AT 80MM TRAVEL!!!???)
Leaking rear shock??? WARRANTY!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Corkill
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: January 22, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | Ravenshoe | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Good hill climber. Strong frame. | | Weaknesses: | Supplied me with a useless front-end shock (Kept bottoming out), useless rear shock, and no riser bar. Serious chain suction every time the chain got a little dirty. | | Similar Products Used: | I have no idea | | Bike Setup: | Replaced the front Manitou SX-E for a dual crown ROCKSHOCK Judy XL. I kept bottoming put the Manitou. Replaced the rear shock for a Stratos Helix Expert. | | Bottom Line: | I am a first time mountain biker and I find the Gary Fisher Joushua series a descent bike, but I wished I had shopped around a little more. Gary Fisher should seriously consider in reviewing these product reviews. First of all, this bike has serious chain suction. If you do not look after this bike and especiallly the chain, you are going to have problems mister! Second, why in the hell is Gary Fisher installing silly little shocks for this bike? The first thing I had to do is replace them with something better. Was this done on purpose so we Joshua owners have to spend money for better upgrading stuff? Please explain! I could have owned a full decked out Santa Cruz by now! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stuart Hawkes
a Please Select
from Worthing,West Sussex, England
Date Reviewed: January 21, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | South Downs | | Duration Product Used: | Please Select | | Strengths: | Excellent off road, never cleaned, only sprayed with WD40 and still never complains. Mates think it looks the bizzo and so do I. Lockable rear shock great. | | Weaknesses: | Bottle cage position crap, Large tyres not ideal for the road stretches. Would prefer riser bars and disc brakes. Cost £1100 in March 99 so one of your reviewers got a bargain at $375. Down to about £675 in the sales now so what's mine worth second hand$375?). | | Similar Products Used: | Raleigh activator two(horible) | | Bike Setup: | Standard. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bobby Glenn
a Weekend Warrior
from Hampton, VA
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: | walnut creek (Charlottsville) | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | great match to my body; as mentioned numerous times by others...rear-dampening/lock-out from the handlebar. | | Weaknesses: | quite heavy compared to my Kona... but with the geometry of the bike (x-tra pivot points, full suspension, etc.) x-tra weight was to be expected. | | Similar Products Used: | my first full-susp. ride. borrowed friends specialized fs | | Bike Setup: | spec. body geom. seat (my girl-friend insisted!), XT component upgrade, michelin semi-slicks | | Bottom Line: | poor climbing had always kept me away from a full-mush ride, but this one does great. kept switching to my hard-tail on technical, low-speed trails for a few months, but now that I've gotten used to the "dampening on the fly", proficiency, comfort and enjoyment have soared.
Love the bike. definately recomend it.
mines a '99 | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Quinn
a Weekend Warrior
from Orem,Ut.
Date Reviewed: January 7, 2000 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Hot Pots backside | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
The Rear Dampening Feature is great. | | Weaknesses: |
Components are horrible!!! | | Bike Setup: |
Stock | | Bottom Line: | I have had nothing but problems with the bike from day one. In the 10 months that I have owned the bike, it has been in the shop for 5 months being repaired. The derailers skip the chain around to much, including right of the sprocket if you put any pressure on it while riding up hill. I am not the type to walk up a hill, and that really pissed me off. The chains have broken four times. The rear hub broke two times and had to be replaced with the Racelight rim to increase the stregnth. The rear shock was blown out. I never in my life would purchase this bike again. I would also suggest to fellow Utahns' to stay away from Copeland Sports who have given nothing but horrible service while working to repair the bike. Two thumbs down. I wouldn't suggest to my worste enemy to buy this bike. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Rendeck
a Weekend Warrior
from Freeport, Maine
Date Reviewed: December 11, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Jackson Hole | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Very sweet bike.
Genesis geometry.
Rear suspension lockeable. | | Weaknesses: |
weighes more than your mom | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek
Cannondale
Bontrager
Lightspeed | | Bottom Line: | I found a F3 at a local MTB store for $379, because it was one of the first ones given to the store(or something like that), so I took it. How could anyone refuse? It is the best bike by far that i've ever ridden. If you ever get a deal like that, BUY IT! If you don't like it(which you will), I I guarantee you can sell it for at double what you got it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josep Maria Casanova
a Cross-Country Rider
from Girona, Catalunya, Spain
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Rocacorba | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Very sweet bike.
Genesis geometry.
Rear suspension lockeable. | | Weaknesses: |
Heavy weight. | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondale SuperV | | Bike Setup: |
Full suspension | | Bottom Line: | My bike has a Joshua f3 frame but the rest of components are changeds step to step by me. The front fork are a Manitou X-vert T and it increases the weight but the rest of compnents are lightness (XTR group, rims Mavic 517 with XTR hubs, Thomson seat post,...) This composition is very equilibrate to ride the bike and the Genesis geometry do the rest. It's a very comfortable and agressive boke. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon
a Racer
from Austin, Tx
Date Reviewed: November 30, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Any trail I haven't ridden yet | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Handles great.
Tough as hell | | Similar Products Used: |
Old rigid Fisher | | Bike Setup: |
Stock | | Bottom Line: | After 9 months of abuse I have had to replace the front derailleur under warranty but upgraded to XT, Broke the pedals 4 times so far but the dealer gave me parts to replace when I break them. Rear shock slowly leaked since it was new but eventually got worse and lost too much oil. Replaced rear shock under warranty. Started noticing a thump when I lifted the front wheel so I took took apart the shock and found a broken shim on the rebound piston. Waiting on parts right now. I would recommend this bike to anyone. I broke some stuff but got two racing seasons and 1600 miles out of it so far and the only thing that cost money was the $5 upgrade for the front derailleur. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross-Country Rider
from Salem OR
Date Reviewed: November 25, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Everywhere | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Steady predictable handling. On the fly damping adjuster. Decent component mix. | | Weaknesses: |
A little heavy but who cares? | | Similar Products Used: |
This is my first full squish bike. | | Bike Setup: |
Stock except for the seatpost which I swapped for a Bontrager post | | Bottom Line: | I purchased mine at nearly $400 off list price. It also had an LX crankset instead of the STX. I've ridden the bike on most of the local trails and find it to be an excellent ride. The On the fly damping adjuster is really swell. The bike is just plain fun to ride anywhere. I would not hesitate to recommend this bike to someone looking for good all purpose trailbike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Orlando, FL
Date Reviewed: October 25, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Low Price, sweet frame, on the fly adjustment of rear shock | | Weaknesses: |
STX-RC cranks, 29lb. total weight | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized, Trek, Giant, etc. | | Bottom Line: | Can't beat the value. I've used it in several states with great results both climbing and descending. Cut some fat by upgrading the cranks. No maintainence problems so far, despite extreme conditions i've ridden in (mud, sand, etc.). I chose this bike over all the others for the on the fly adjustment of the rear shock, this should be standard on all rear suspension bikes. Buy it for the frame, upgrade the components as you get the cash. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
russell
a Racer
from canada
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
brunnet park | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
good geometry
drive train
damper on the fly | | Weaknesses: |
little heavy
hard to carry | | Similar Products Used: |
f4
y3 trek | | Bottom Line: | this is a very good bike, it rocks on the downhill and on the single trails
and the f4 is not better! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ca
Date Reviewed: October 20, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Mt Tam | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Makes a good boat anchor | | Weaknesses: |
see strengths | | Bike Setup: |
stock | | Bottom Line: | Is this an aluminum frame? cuz it feels like iron to me. This bike is better used as a really large paperweight. It weighs a ton. Don't buy it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Woj
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: September 17, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
seventh heaven | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Yet again the lock out on that rear wheel. Can't beat it. | | Weaknesses: |
The front shock is not ajustable... which does not feel to bad but the guys at my bike shop are going to up grade it to be ajustable. | | Similar Products Used: |
Kona--Specialized FSR--KHS--joshua f4--Broadie--deep cove | | Bike Setup: |
Stock, me boys! | | Bottom Line: | Wel, have not ridden it enough yet to really get in to it... but the geometry makes wheels and jumps easier and if you did not hear, the lock out is great. I found the F3 much more solid feeling than the F4. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: September 9, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Ortega - San Juan Capistrano | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Xlnt Components for the Price
On-The-Fly Rear Damping Adjustment
Great Handling | | Weaknesses: |
Hard to hand-carry over crossings because of the frame design
None other noted | | Similar Products Used: |
GT XCR-2000 i-drive
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR XC
Cannondale V800 | | Bike Setup: |
Titec Alum Risers | | Bottom Line: | I'm in love with this bike. It's my first full-suspension MTB, and will never go back to a hardtail. Having ridden/raced dirt bikes for years, it's great to see the suspension technologies that took so many years to perfect, now get applied to MTB's. I got a great deal on this bike from BikeUSA San Diego, but the 99 Joshua's are getting hard to come by. I really wanted an F2 but could not find one, and barely found a large-framed F3. So I recommend doing your best to locate one, drive a bargain, and snap it up! I've seen some blowout deal's on the F1's, so if you've got the cash, that would be the way to go. I agree with the other reviewer's that for the money, your not going to find a full-suspension bike with better components. At 29lbs it's a little heavy, but you really don't notice it...this sucker climbs. The sick orange color will draw some attention, yeech, but it kinda grows on you. I plan to ride this for a year or so and then upgrade to a 2000' Gary Fisher Sugar. Now those look sweet! I give the Joshua F3 FIVE STARS. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris ball
a Cross-Country Rider
from rochester hills, Michigan
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Vasa, bloomer, stone creek | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
everthing! | | Weaknesses: |
it is too good to have weaknesses! | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized FSR line up, Cannondale | | Bike Setup: |
stock | | Bottom Line: | the bike is the best deal that you will ever get and you should buy it. It is a awesome bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cully Woods
a Weekend Warrior
from Pullman, WA
Date Reviewed: August 29, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Poison Spider Mesa, Moab | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Most everything | | Weaknesses: |
Nothing I can think of yet. | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondales | | Bike Setup: |
Bike has been upgraded from the stats in the catalog, LX crank, suerstock handlebars and profile design bar-ends | | Bottom Line: | This bike AWESOME! It is not quite payed off yet so I ride it as often as the dealer allows. ( They let me take it out for a few hours as long as I bring it back) Right away I started trying things I've never done before. I wheelie off four foot ledges and jump over garbage cans from about three and a half feet. I crashed once at a skateboard park. It was a hard hard crash onto concrete. The only, only damage found was scratches on my bar-ends and a beat up right shoulder. I can't wait to take this baby to all my favorite trails. Moab, Jacson Hole, and of course Winthrop! See ya there! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta, GA
Date Reviewed: August 24, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Whistler, BC | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Dampering on the fly, componentry, value, tough looks | | Weaknesses: |
none yet | | Similar Products Used: |
GT, K2 | | Bike Setup: |
STOCK | | Bottom Line: | After being impressed with Fisher's quality with my 1999 Hoo Koo E Koo, I invested in a second Fisher earlier this summer. Again, the ability, virtual indestructability, and handling of this bike can't be touched for the price. Service with my dealer in Atlanta (Outback Bikes)has been a pleasure, too. All work and no play is no good at all! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from Las Cruces, NM
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1999 | | Favoriate Trail: |
Dona Ana's | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Rear Shock Lock-out
9-Speed Rapid Fire
Awsome Handling | | Weaknesses: |
Little Heavy, but nothing else | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondale Super V500 | | Bike Setup: |
Stock | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the price. The bike handles great on the downhills, but gives a decent workout on the climb. Has great upgrade capabilities. Overall, a sound purchase for the person looking to make mountain biking alot more fun. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan Junek
a Weekend Warrior
from Madison, NJ
Date Reviewed: August 3, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Great Components
Nice frame
Looks beyond cool. | | Weaknesses: |
The rear shock could be a little more plush, but I'm scrawny, so I have to adjust it for my lighter weight. | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondale V700 | | Bike Setup: |
Too much cool components to list | | Bottom Line: | I would recomend this bike to anyone who would like a bike right off the rack that doesn't require a lot of upgrading to get quality components, not to mention a great ride. The Price is practically unbeatable. | | Overall Rating: |
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