Is there an under $1000 (approx.) FS MTB capable of: Good single track XC capability with minimal pedal bob, good climber/downhill, handle drops 3-4', under 30 lbs. Should have a decent frame with components that can be upgraded over time as budget allows. Not looking for a racer, just a good multi-purpose bike. Yes, I already know a grand will buy a very nice HT, but I'm looking for a duallie. If $1K won't do it, what does one need to spend to get there??

my vote goes to the Specialized FSR-XC. MSRP is about 1100, but your LBS should be able to sell it for under that, probably close to your $1000 price limit. It has an LX drivetrain, rear air shock, front Manitou Axel fork, disc hubs so you can upgrade to discs later.. it does have V-brakes, however. Seems like a decent FS bike for the money.

I'd suggest the Kona Kikapu:
https://www.konaworld.com/2k4bikes/2K...2k5_kikapu.cfm
It has disk brakes, and I don't know about the other components...

another good one.. also $1100 MSRP... Similar components to the Specialized except seems to have a little better rear shock and a lower-end front fork. The Shimano discs aren't too bad overall from what I've been hearing. Although I have heard that Specialized's FS setup bobs less under hard pedalling than most others, I haven't heard any direct comparisons to the Kona.

Im pretty much a newb but I got my '04 Giant Iguana for a little under $600 after tax (on sale). Seems to be solid so far but I havent gotten in any major crashes or done any drops. I think its worth a look.

The FSR design bobs a lot less than other designs even WITHOUT a platform shock.

That's exactly what I'd heard... I know the S-works ones lock out really well under hard pedalling but are still wonderfully compliant when the going gets rough. That's not an option for him, though.. the title was $1000, not $5000

ps: raiyn.. IM me on AIM... I have a few things I want to ask you about

Maybe a closeout on a Kona Coiler. Should be fine for pedalling and will easily take the type of stuff you were specifying.

In this case, the classifieds and/or ebay may be the poster's best friend. Nothing wrong with buying a well taken care of used fs bike.

The Coiler is a little on the heavy side 35lbs and is more freeride/allrounder than XC, but still a good package if you can find one in a sale or ex-demo.
I'd also second the FSR-XC it seems suited to everything you've asked, and you might get a good deal on this years Stumpjumper as the 05 models are coming on sale.

What does your LBS carry?

I would have to agree with the FSR XC. Good bike good price. I would go the used route if you can find one that will work. You might find one that is lightly used or the seller over spent etc... Here's one that just went up on ebay... 2004 Specialized FSR XC Pro - Large

I ride the 2004 fsr-xc, cost 1000 after i believe. If you are a heavier rider you might have trouble with the axel fork. I'm not, but you can dial it from 80 to 100 mm and also play with the internal adjust.

The LBS I like to support stocks mainly Trek, but is also a dealer for Marin, Gary fisher, and Cannondale too. There are other shops in the area and most brands are represented. What they stock , however, seems to be limited.

I wasted no time taking all of your great suggestions to heart . Went to LBS today and rode the Specialized FSR-XC. It's a 2003 in size XL (I'm 6'-3" with 36.5" inseam, 200 lbs.); only one they had. I was surprised at how nicely it handled and how responsive it was. The cockpit was comfortable. The fork did seem to be on the weak side, so I'd want to upgrade that eventually. It was kind of dissapointing that it did ont have disk brakes, but it is disk ready. So this one is definitely on my short list. LBS wants $730 for the 2003 leftover vs $990 for the 2005. How does that deal sound?

I also rode the Kona Kikapu at another LBS. It's clear this is a high quality bike. But the cockpit seemed a litttle small, and it didn't work as well for me as the Specialized.


Any others candidates I should look at? How about Ibex; is their FS any good?

Kona is a different design. Short chainstays and I have found short tt compared to othercompanies. This allows for more control of the bike for north shore style freeriding which is generally slow and choppy.

Go for what fits. You have found one that fits, sounds to me like you decision is between the 2 years

I say go with the 05, but I like wasting money on new things as opposed to getting bargains

Not really, but I would get the 05 model were I in your position.

pull up the specs on both on a site, print them both out if you want to then investigate the main parts that differ between these two years, then buy the best deal is my suggestion

HAHAHAHAHAHA thats a good one. Riding a Coiler is like riding a pogo stick.

i like the fuel 70... it doesn't get the best reputation out there and all... but it is my first full suspension, and i really like it... i think my only complaint is the fork is a little weak, but that's all. I like my bike a lot, but i think everyone does... it's worth a try.

If you say so. They seem fine to me.

Compared to the FSR design, Kona's is definitely less ideal for pedaling. Kona's linkage isn't particularly amazing, but it's solid and works fine. I personally much prefer the FSR design for a dualie. Pedal- and braking-induced movement of the shock is hardly noticeable. But I am very impressed with some of Kona's hardtails.

If you buy the 03, you have plenty of cash to upgrade to disc brakes and stay in your 1K range. Was the fork on the 05 more suitable to your needs? Its your hard earned cash. Only you can decide how to spend it.