Incredible bike
powerstroke said:
I possibly have a chance to purchase a 2001 specialized S-works FSR in very good condition. Fox float shocks front and rear. Anybody have any input? Has rear suspension technology changed drastically since 01? If it has improved a bit since this model would I notice the difference anyway since I am a beginner? what would be an "acceptable" price and a "good deal" price on this bike? thank you in advance for any input. Matt
This is an incredible bike. I used to have a 2000 S-Works and was an idiot to have sold it. Bottom line, in my opinion, is that this bike simply would not benefit from today's newer (and not necessarily better) technology. This is approx a 3.5 inch travel bike and was designed beautifully around not needing SPV shock technology. In fact, I personally think it is silly to put SPV (ie, new shock technology) on such incredibly efficient bikes that are not at least 5" of travel. Not to mention, I would not do it anyway because you would loose small bump sensitivity which I would not recommend in your case, or anybodys case for that matter. However, you can always change the shock to SPV technology of have the current rear shock PUSHed. This PUSH process I think costs under $200 and what you basically get is a customized FOX shock for you and your riding style so dont feel like you cant employ the newer shock technology if you choose.
Like I said, I loved my bike and this would be an incredible bike for you in all regards since you dont have alot of experience. It would be much better I think than jumping on the trendy "trailbike" bandwagon. The S-works will climb incredible and descend very well. My humble opinion is that most people (including myself) simply dont need 5"+ of travel front and rear for the vast majority of riding. What you would gain from a trailbike would allow you to descend more technical terrain (ie, can be more lazy in picking lines) comfortably but since you are relatively new to the sport, the true frustration will come with climbing which a bike like the S-works will be top notch. While I do love my 5" travel bike and do often use the extra travel, I am currently building up a hardtail since much of my riding is over relatively non-technical terrain and involves a ton of climbing.
I dont think I would offer more than $1200 but I am perhaps not the best to comment on price. It sounds like the fork was upgraded but if that is it, I dont think I would pay more than that given that deals that can be had. I would check ebay and mtbr to see what people are currently asking and on ebay, click the box that indicates closed auctions to research what other s-works (in 2000, 2001, 2002) ended up selling for.
Cheers
