I've heard loads of good things about the VT2 and as I'm on the verge of buying my first full suss, this seems like a good option - anyone whos got one, I'd appreciate comments. I have read the bearings are hit and miss, and the front forks aren't too hot. Given my budgets around £1500, is it worth me upgrading these, or are there better bikes for my dough?
Thanks, Alistair.

The VT is a top frame/bike,but i would rather get a Giant REIGN.

VT's were well loved last year but I'd consider the Reign as it's a newer design and for me probably more 'England' friendly. The VT has the shock in line with the crap from the back wheel which is bad news IMO.

The spec on the Reign is probably an upgrade for the money too.

Although the Reign is a newer design and probably better, the VT2 is good VFM and still a great bike.

I've had mine 4 months it's very smooth and I'm happy with the suspension front and back.

There isn't any seals on the wheel hubs and they fill up with crap. I serviced the hubs the other day and the front is on it's last legs.

The ISIS BB is grinding away and I think it's for the bin.

Still delighted with it!

Go for the Reign, as above, it's newer design and has great spec. Major bonus is the new shock placement, much more suited to UK.

I have a VT, and having ridden a reign for the weekend (as i was thinking of changing), i would without a doubt stick with the VT!!! but that is my opinion.

Oh and i agree about the VT's stupid shock placement and the crappy wheel's, bb and forks, but i have replaced them all.

i will sell you my brand new giant vt2 for 900 with full reciepts and warrenty only 1 1/2 months old

bigp_mplex@hotmail.com

Paul
Thanks for the offer, but I'm not quite ready to by just yet.
Alistair

£1,500 mark is a good amount of money, and there are lots of options around that price. Unless you're into big hits Marin Rift Zone for just under £1,600 is the best deal at the mo - may be able to pick last years one up cheaper OR get it cheaper in a few months time.

Other good options -

Cannondale Prophet 600 for £1,600
GT IDXC 2.0 for £1,400 (Or last years IDXC 1.0 for £1,300 !)
Or... Buy yourself a frame and build it up... There are Litespeed Niota 04 on Bonthrone Bikes site for 600 notes, should easy be able to build up with decent Fox LX / XT kit for under £1,600....


Enjoy making the decision !

Just bought a VT1 frame off ebay, and built it up with stuff from other bikes in the garage. I can honestly say that I can now ride up and over rocks on on my normal rides that I've NEVER been able to clear before. I've ridden quite a few full suss and rigids up there before, but this thing really makes someone as shite as me look half decent ! Just bought this months MBR, and the VT2 gets 10/10, and the VT frame gets 9/10. The only other bike that gets full marks, as far as I can tell is the new Whyte. Pretty good comparison.......

As a certain fast food chain would say "I'm lovin' it" when it comes to riding the VT2. Agree with comments that the hubs get shot pretty quickly, but the forks have so far been a pleasant surprise, albeit they're a bit flexy compared to the Rebas and Comp ETAs I ride.

Tyres lasted one ride before switching them (not Malverns friendly).

But for £1100 with 3yrs 0% it seems like a steal!

I agree entirely with everyone here. I have come to love and hate my VT2 over the last eight months. Headset has been replaced and bb cartridge was busted. the up side - all covered by warrantee. front wheel has been replaced, back wheel on the shoping list (hubs), and that god damn seatpost / shim combo... This is one bike that has allowed me to do more of absolutely everything that cycling can offer, big jumps fast downhill great singletrack etc (maintenance!!!) It gives you confidence and makes up for any lack of ability, I WOULDN'T CHANGE IT FOR THE WORLD.

Ajpaul - just to let you know if you were to go for the 04 model you could save some money. Pauls Cycyles for instance has the 04 model for £999.95

why is its everyone has such a love hate relationship with it? me too i have a 04 vt1 (blue) and so far its been through 1 set of rocker bearings repl;aced with much better sealed jobs 1 service for the shock and various other things BUT i love it the way the thing climbs is amazing it will eat tech uphills seated then make you think your on a dh bike down the other side. if you get one take it either any of the stanes or wales centres and you will have the best out of it these are designed for that stuff.....

and to all other owners out there iv designed and made vt shock mudgaurds that stop it getting filthy and extend service times if you want details on how to make them email stumpyjumper@hotmail.com all you need is a friendly halfords nearby!