Giant Bicycle Inc. 2000 OCR 1

Price Paid:  $800.00 at Mole Hill Bikes, Har

Favorite Ride:
Give me a ROAD!

Bike Setup:
Original specs with change to saddle (Terry Race), change to stem (Design Profile), change to pedals (Speedplay), and replaced tires when worn (Michelin Pro Race).

Summary:
It is a super bike for the money! The compact road aluminum frame, composite fork, CRMO steer tube, and ALL 105 components make for a smooth, stiff, and save ride. With some minor upgrades, I was able to make this bike fit me perfectly. I compared other brands, but for the quality of bike and overall components, you just can't beat the 2001/OCR 1. I am a rec rider who does a lot of club rides, not trying to win any races, just looking for a fun ride I can pedal on an uphill and handle the corners on a descent, all within a budget. OCR 1 does it all. I love this bike!

Strengths:
Great 6061 butted aluminum frame with composite fork and ALL 105 components for less than $1000! Fun ride, wonderful price!

Weaknesses:
Changed the saddle to a Terry Race (uncomfortable with what came on bike); Stem too long and flexible so upgraded to Design Profile (quill); Changed pedals from SPD-R to Speedplay (found SPD-R hard to get in and out of).

Similar Products Used:
Trek 520

Price Paid:  $600.00 at eBay

Favorite Ride:
Don't give a (bleep!)

Bike Setup:
stock, conti tires

Summary:
I love this machine! The CXP-21 and conti tires go around corners like the bike is on rails. I can get it to go 30mph, uphill! ...I replaced the seat cuz it was like sitting on a razor blade... it cuts off the circulation in your butt after an hour of riding. The aluminum frame is fine for commuting, despite the horror stories i've heard about them. The adjustable stem flexes all over the place and creaks... I am going to upgrade as soos as possible

Strengths:
-superlight frame
-great handlebar
-good components

Weaknesses:
seat, stem

Similar Products Used:
none

Price Paid:  $1100.00 at Stan''s bike

Bike Setup:
off the shelf. replaced the seat.

Summary:
The best bang for the buck in its class. The bike was easy to fit, and after 6 month and 500 miles it is as tuned and tight as the day I got it.

Strengths:
Value and quality.

Weaknesses:
The adjastable stem is too flexible, I rather have a stiff handlbar. I had to replace the original seat.

Similar Products Used:
Bianchi

Price Paid:  $950.00 at lbs

Favorite Ride:
cahuenga-sepulveda loop

Bike Setup:
Shimano 105 components

Summary:
I've put 1600 miles on this bike in the 6 months that I've owned it. It has served me well. I would reccomend it to anyone looking for a well equipped "starter" bike.

Strengths:
I have been very happy with my purchase (OCR1/2001). I bought this bike to do the California Aids Ride and it has served me well. This is the first road bike I've ever purchased and I believe that for the price, you can't beat it. I've read other reviews from people who had problems with the saddle but I can't say that I noticed that much discomfort - maybe I just don't know any better!

Weaknesses:
I am a "larger" rider (6'1"/200lbs.) and had lots of problems with spokes on the CXP21's. Spoke with similar sized riders who experienced the same problems and eventually upgraded.

Similar Products Used:
None

Price Paid:  $1100.00 at Crazy Cat Cyclery

Favorite Ride:
Road ride

Bike Setup:
The only part I changed out was the seat. I am using a specialized body geometry sport saddle.

Summary:
Its a nice riding bike that comes with great components. It shifts smoothly and feels like a quality bike. Other bikes in the same price range do not have the same quality of components. The bottom line is that it is a lot of road bike for the money you'll pay.

Strengths:
I recently purchased a 2001, OCR 1 and it is a smooth riding bike that is great for long distances. It comes with a complete Shimano 105 group which is a great value for the price of the bike. It is the ideal bike for serious rider who is on a limited budget. I am completely happy with this bike and recommend it highly.

Weaknesses:
The seat is very uncomforable (Selle Italia XO) and I had to trash it. Also the fork was recalled but Giant is replacing all forks so it should not be a problem anymore.

Similar Products Used:
First road bike