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Submitted by
Bert Fox
a Recreational Rider
from Naples, ID USADate Reviewed: March 30, 2000
Strengths: The only fully suspended MTB/Adventure tourer available. The Softride suspension stem is ideal in this application. It doesn't interfere with low rider racks. Likewise the beam rear suspension.Weaknesses: The short stays of the Powercurve aliminum frame would be harsh if not for the beam suspension. There is no replaceable derailleur hanger.Bottom Line: This bike as a complete unit comes with the LX 9sp which would work very well also. It is the only bike of it's type in a fully suspended MTB/Touring format. The beam suspension allows a stiff frame for great power transmission without punishing the rider. If you're an older rider like I am, you appreciate the comfort factor a great deal. Plus the bike is unique looking and draws lots of positive remarks and questions everywhere I go.The suspension stem offers two inches of travel and it is a parallelogram design so the movement is not just a bobbing up and down. I also have the optional "Offspring" hydraulic damper which attaches to the side of the stem. It is actually a tiny oil filled shock absorber that lends some hydraulic damping to the stem. The damper is best used in offroad conditions and use the stem without it for touring or road riding. The stem and the beam are very effective at smoothing out stutter bumps and washboard type roads. It is not as good at "G" outs and big craters like a quality suspension fork. But then you couldn't attach low rider racks and panniers as well. Plus you have the advantage of a lightweight rigid fork and the almost zero maintenance factor on both the beam and the stem.
Similar Products Used: There is no similar product, except the Softride Solo UTV
(Ultimate Tour Vehicle) if you would rather have 700c wheels
Bike Setup: I bought mine as a frameset. I used mostly XT(8sp).I also used 986 cantilevers for the fender clearance when necessary.I prefer to use the optional extended seat bracket because it allows a lower beam straddle height.I am using LX rapidfire shifters, a 12-32 8sp cog set, a Suntour XC Pro Grease Guard crankset with 46/36/26 rings. I will be taking this bike across the U.S. this summer.
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