Mountain Bike Reviews Forum banner
1,341 - 1,360 of 1,708 Posts
Just ordered a Blue HD3 with X01 Eagle kit through my local shop after selling my AL Bronson v1. I did a ton of research and landed on the HD3 for all around riding. The Eagle seems to be the latest and greatest so I figured might as well for only a little bit more cost. I don't think I've seen any pictures of one with that build yet. Absolutely cannot wait, hopefully there isn't much of a holdup (or any) to get it shipped out here! I'll post some pics when it comes in.
 
Fixing to order a custom build from competitive cyclist. Anyone offer advice on 160 Pike RCT3 or 160 Fox 36?
I've had both, the Pike is far easier to setup, but if you have the patience and common sense to persevere with the RC2, it's a much better fork. Once you've got the setup nailed it's nice to be able to increase LSC by a couple of clicks for a technical drop-in etc etc.
 
That's good to hear because I've struggled between the Bronson, Tracer 275C, and HD3.
Personally I would not consider the Tracer at this point. It should be replaced very soon and will be significantly upgraded. Instead the Recluse should be on that list. After that it is just a consideration of what you like to ride. Bronson is a little more downhill focused and the HD3 is a little more fun on flatter/smoother trails. The HD3 gets nervous as the speeds go up and the trails get rougher/steeper. The Bronson is a little slower side to side. The Recluse looks the most interesting to me of those three though. Longer reach of the Bronson with a super short rear end equals a super fun machine.
 
Only reason I was considering the Tracer is because it was on sale big time. Without a discount I find Intense bikes expensive for their build components.

I need a good bike for flatter trails, but can also handle rougher terrain. Sounds like I made the right choice ordering the HD3.
 
Image


But of an update, Reverb out, Transfer in... Saints have come off for now, put some nice XTR M9020 brakes on. Also the Saint shifter eventually gave up (after 2.5 years) so gone 11sp XTR, that's all 11sp for now but got more on its way. Current weight is 29.26lbs. Rides amazingly, totally love it!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
That ride looks sweet. Has me rethinking my color choice.

Just placed an order today for a large HD3 917 blue with Fox RC2, Fox DPS, full XT, stans flow mk3 boost wheelset, and fox transfer factory dropper post.

One thing that shocks me is weight. My aluminum 2014 giant trance 1 with tons of house brand components, SLX/XT, and giant aluminum wheelset weighs 31 lbs with Saint pedals. I would've figured a full carbon rig would've been lighter than 1.75 lbs less.
 
1,341 - 1,360 of 1,708 Posts