Originally Posted by wearyourtruth
i tried the search function, but to little avail, so i was curious as to opinions or experience on the SASS as an XC bike, particularly the components. i have seen a lot on the roads/trails but that doesn't necissarily make it great. i don't think many can argue about the bb7 brakes, but i've heard mixed reviews about the wheels. anyway, any experience or knowledge is appreciated, thanks!
I have the siss, rather than the sass.
The stock headset isn't sealed all that well, so to keep it happy requires frequent greasing- if you're buying used, check the headset condition.
The spot hub on the siss is really weak- i think the bianchi hub on the sass is actually better.
The wheels are heavy, but otherwise ok. Machine built, so check the spoke tension after you've been riding them a bit. I didn't, and broke two spokes on the rear wheel. After replacing them, the wheels have been pretty durable. I went through my first isis bottom bracket in ~4 months, but the replacement has been in for two years now, and is still going strong.
the brakes are good.
oveall, a good bike for the price.