Originally Posted by sparks_219
I was gonna get a Top Fuel 98, but ended up with a Rocky Mountain Instinct Instead
How do you like your fuel and how would you describe its riding characteristics?
You really need to have some nice pictures of your own
A bike like that needs its own special glory
Actually I do have some pictures of my bike (and a digital cam too). I tried to use the "Manage pictures" feature to upload them and it simply did not work (even though it said that the pictures have been uploaded)
Unfortunately I don't have a hosting web site to link to, so I decided to provide the link to the Trek site where they have pictures and specs instead.
The funny thing is that I am an engineer (with years of s/w development and R&D experience behind me) and technology is not much of a problem for me. But I admit that I am not a tech geek. Go figure.
As for the Fuel 98, it certainly is a nice XC bike. I come from a HT (Norco Nitro with XT components) and there are 2 things about the Fuel that make it superior to the
average aluminium HT bike:
1) The carbon frame provides a much less harsh ride. Coupled with full suspension, it is soooo much easier on the body (remember that I am 42 years old). Even though I am in good shape, train constantly and try to eat well, long, tehcnical rides take their toll. I ride as much as 3.5 hours (mostly advanced and expert single track). The Fuel is forgiving on the body, no doubt.
2) The Fuel's shock (Fox Float RL Pro Pedal) is amazing. I detect almost no bob, yet it hooks up extremely well when climbing over rough terrain or roots. No more bouncing over rough stuff and losing traction. I love the way this bike climbs. Period. But I think a big/heavy person would feel much more bob. The Pro Pedal setup is for lightweights mostly (I weigh 160 lbs).
Otherwise, it is a smooth, efficient 25.6 lbs bike (with the Selle Italia Trans-Am saddle and Crank Brothers Candy pedals I added), which is ideal for XC and tehnical trails. Another interesting thing is that the cockpit is more "relaxed" than the Norco Nitro. The Fuel comes with a short stem (80mm) and wider (31.8) bar. The steering is not as aggressive as you would expect, which is better for technical rides.
I am very fortunate to have this bike. It costs way too much, but the ride quality and the fun factor help ease the pain.
