Strengths: Usuallly low maintenance, only the chain needs regular lubrication. I used it over a wet 6 months in Glasgow for commuting. Good mounting points for commuting mudguards or racks; you need to bodge the front mudguard mount to clear the front hub-brake. Tyres are good and relatively puncture resistant.
Weaknesses: Weak front brake compared to disk. Makes it difficult to stop on downhills, but back brake powerful enough. Awful bottom bracket which made the front chain-ring eccentric and hence the chain was too slack & derailed. Will replace this. Rear hub sealing poor for English weather.
Overall: Great commuting bike, relatively low hassle. Would recommend you find out how to service the hub as after 6 months over winter, my hub seized up, luckily only damage was to the 18 3/16 inch balls on the drive-side. However, now I know it's foibles I'm hoping it will last out another few winters. In future I'll stay away from big puddles!
Strengths: Riding position not too stretched out. Rear shock & rear suspension. Strong brakes.
Weaknesses: Shock bushin wear. However, only just got a Specialized mini-mudguard to protect it after 1 year of use. Low bottom bracket?
Overall: Great bike to own. Ride only once a week so shock bushing wear could be more of a problem for heavy users. Handling is good, but on rocky terrain the pedals can clash with rocks. But that could be me setting up with too much rear sag.
Strengths: Stiff, light, strong. Great geometry, carves like a demon on the dirt. Just lean and weight the front end.
Weaknesses: Chain can drop past grannyring onto BB axle. Manitou forx are not as nice as Marzzochi
Overall: Excellent bike, a tad on the expensive side? But the frame looks well built and ready for more than I can dish out! Great woods bike, as you can corner with your feet up. Not like the DMR I tried once, which felt like a BMX.
