Best retro FS frame?

[ishaw]

The Amp range mentioned are great and as mentioned, used by specialised under license I believe. They are also possibly the lightest full sus bikes you can get. I have a litespeed ti version of the b3 in a box waiting (for a good few years now) to be built as well as an amp b5 (again still waiting to be built). The b5 was the last of the amp designs so should in theory be the better one. If memory serves, the b4 and b5 are very similar, but with the b5 I think you get a standard style shock as opposed to the proprietary fit units, so you can fit a nice modern air shock and make the bike even lighter, and benefit from the evolution of the rear shock too.

I must admit that I do love my rts, but I'm no racer so don't really notice the flaws pointed out. My sts hasn't been ridden since I upgraded it to bearings rather than bushes, and an air shock at the rear, but it rode well with the stock rear end aside from the slight creaking.

 

[Mike Muz]

Re: Re:

Since I have riden it, Boulder Defiant !

+1

That's the other one I had in mind but couldn't remember the name of it ! :roll:
How smart are they !

Mike

 

[24pouces]

Re:

I could ride and test 3 suspension bike of the beginning of the 90ies.
• The Gary Fisher RS1 with the Mert Lawwill suspension. I think the best system for climbing and downhill.
But impossible to adjust (you have to change the elastomers), it's heavy and you need a disc brake.

• The Cannondale EST (SE2000 and DeltaV). The pivot is too high and you feel the suspension in your legs.
And the suspension isn't stiff enough. Things became very better with a better shocker (Fox) and when EST became Super V…

• The Boulder. Mine is titanium and before I rode it, I hought that feelings would be near the Cannondale's.
The integrated shock in horizontal tube is a good solution for lateral stiffness, and if you (easily) adjust the shock for SAG 0 (as told me Risse Racing) The bike is lightweight, stiff for climbing and fine in downhill.
I understand why, in some article on the first suspension bike, the Boulder was one of the best

 

[Mike Muz]

Re:

I'll have to keep my eyes peeled for one of those then !
I'll have another look at your thread mate

Definitely nicer to look at than a lot of designs .

Mike

 

[FSXStumpy]

It wasn't very XC capable, but in about '98 a friend came into the shop with an Intense M1, needing the maguras fitted. Impressed me very greatly in the test rides after... Staircases became mere ramps beneath it...

Intense.

J

 

[legrandefromage]

As already mentioned, Marin FRS from 1997 onwards - just watch for cracks in the rear swing arm. Later swing arm bolts straight on and is a little stiffer plus offers a disc mount.

light but can be a bit flexy

I've built up a ratty FRS-XC for under £80

Raleigh RSP, 853 Reynolds tubing and a very nice rear end - built mine for around £60!

a bit hefty when compared directly to the Marin though.

 

[superstar1]

Re: Re:

Proflex! Still a capable xc machine...

Nice bike but if you're going to have a Proflex it's got to have the Girvins for authenticity, however Henrik Djernis as featured in your photo actually rode with the Girvins locked out replacing the elastomer with a chunk of metal because they were basically crap!!

 

[Benandemu]

Re:

As already mentioned, you need one of these...

 

[paulswheels]

Re:

Would have to agree on the Amp B4 or Santa Cruz Heckler Best FS Retro.
I prefer my Heckler to the Amp by the way.

 

[My_Teenage_Self]

For much cheapness and a decent all rounder, GT LTS.

Me, I'm looking for a heckler...