[69tr6r]

Hey guys, just wanted to get some opinions of this bike. I found one for sale locally that the po did a little parts swapping to. Things like putting a rigid fork on it and a stem riser. The bike needs a cassette and chain, at the least and the seller is asking $200. I'm looking to get into a full suspension bike this season without too much cost.

If I bought it I would obviously put a new fork on it and change out the stem. But what I really want to know, is if the swingarm is really as bad as everyone is saying as far as cracking. Also, if it does end up breaking, will Trek replace it? Sorry for the crappy pics, it's all I have.

Thanks.

 

[blunderbuss]

Looks ok. Figure a fork, cassette, chain - $2-300 depending on what you go with. You don't have to replace the stem, just pull the riser out of the mix. As for warranty, almost definitely not.

 

[69tr6r]

Thanks bb, anyone else care to give me an opinion of this?

 

[navymtbr]

05 Fuel 70

I have a 2005 Fuel 70. Bought new and ridden plenty over some pretty technical terrain. Never a problem and even the original bushings are still going strong.

As for "improvements", THE absolute best was replacing the original fork (Manitou Axel) with a RS Reba. A quality fork makes the bike handle and perform 100% better.

I initially stayed away from a similar deal, used 2002 Fuel 80 for $300. Issue was the same, frame and warranty and the rear triangle breaks. Now with 6 years on my frame, I think I would jump at the used bike. Just look it over real well, especially stress points.

 

[69tr6r]

Thanks navy. I'm going to go look at it, and I'll check it out for any signs of cracking. I've already got a fork from my old bike, a Manitou SX that I would put on, at least for this season. How is the rear shock, it's a Rox Shox Bar. I weigh 180 and don't do any drops bigger than a foot... that's on my hardtail.

 

[navymtbr]

Bar

Not particularly fond of the Bar but it is still on the bike. I too am around 170/180 with gear. I set the pressure based on SAG not what RS recommends. I use 60 psi for the technical trails (roots) and 80-100 for spinning through the neighborhood as I want a firmer pedaling platform. Just so you know my setup, the following are the upgrades:
07 Reba Team
09 Cane Creek Zonos Tubeless
2.1 UST Nevegals
Avid BB7's w/Jagwire Ripcord full housings
WTB Laser V saddle
Performance 90mm Stem and ATX Flat handlebar

Upgrades awaiting install:
SRAM X-9 Triggers and F/R derailluers (Santa)
SRAM 970 Cassette (Santa)
SRAM 971 Chain (Santa)
Shimano XT Crankset w/XT BB (Birthday)
Switching to a 9 speed drivetrain
WTB Silverado Team Saddle (Chainlove deal!!!)
Thomson Elite Stem
Thomson Seatpost
Performance ATX Carbon Handlebar
Last 3 pieces were picked up at a recent bike swap meet. Paid less than $100 for all 3, gently used.

I never pay full price, internet shop and buy last years models during closeouts. Jan/Feb is a great time to find deals on closeout parts. The Nevegals is the only thing I paid full for but I bought them from my LBS just to spend some money there.

 

[69tr6r]

Update

So I bought the bike this weekend! It looks great, hardly ridden. Definitely needs a new cassette and chain. I'm going to swap most of my hardtail parts over to this bike. I've got XT cranks, LX 9 speed shifters, Avid brakes and a much more comfortable seat. I'm also going to put the Manitou SX fork on there for starters. I also won an auction for a carbon swingarm, so that is an option when I feel like doing the swap, or if I have problem with the stock swingarm.

I can't say I have an opinion of the rear shock yet because I haven't taken it on the trails, plus it's my first FS so I have nothing to compare it to. I have a feeling I will want to upgrade that in the near future, either a Fox or Cane Creek is what I see in the 6.5x1.5 options.

Anyway, thanks for the advice, I couldn't be happier so far.