Reviewed by: Glenn ,  Weekend Warrior , from Stephentown, NY

Favorite Trail:
Less than 1 month

Summary:
I ride a bit of everything (road, cross, XC). My Diamondaback Response was not adequate for long, tough mountian rides. I'm fairly fit (6'1" and 205)and have a dirtbiking background so I can ride hard in most situations. I love the fit of this 29er; it climbs, tracks unbelievably well in the snot and rocks, and stays straight downhill. The extra cushion inherent in the larger tires makes a notable difference. I will try the bike without the seatpost suspension later but for now, I'll take the weight penalty. I bought the bike off ebay but it was in brand new condition. I wouldn't hesitate to buy the frame and build it from scratch. This small company has hit the mark: looks great, performs very well, and is not overpriced.

Strengths:
Great geometry that inspires on downhills, perfect paint for now, good climber, reasonable value for a 29er.

Weaknesses:
No complaints.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Diamondback Response, Specialized Stumpjumper.

Reviewed by: Texican ,  Cross Country Rider , from San Antonio, TX USA

Favorite Trail:
Less than 1 month

Summary:
Very agile, nicely finished frame. It built up easy and looks great. As for the ride, it is very quick and rolls easily. Lots and Lots of stand over height. The geometry is very balanced, and it holds a line with ease: just point and go. I also have a Niner EMD, and the finish quality is indistinguishable, but the Rook is half the price. As for ride quality, the Rook is a little better climber and a little more nimble, but that probably has a lot to do with the fork.

Bottom line is that for the price, I don't think that there is a better 29er frame out there. I am extremely pleased with the Rook.

Strengths:
Price, Quality, Handling, Weight, and Overall very well finished

Weaknesses:
Maybe the color? A little bit on the heavy side, but not anything that is a deal breaker

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Niner EMD

Reviewed by: Sevo ,  Cross Country Rider , from Colorado Springs, CO USA

Favorite Trail:
Less than 1 month

Summary:
This is a quality frame I think you'll start to see more of as Astrix starts marketing more. Price, ride quality, weight, and finish are all outstanding values. Add in the fact this is one of the few lightweight frames you can use with v-brakes and you have a real winner. I've recommended this frame to one friend already who bought one. I'd recommend it to others as well. I'd buy it again. Top it all off the people at Astrix are great and really love bikes, which you can tell when you ride the frame.

Strengths:
Where to start? First off for $499 the frame is an excellent value. 4lbs for a large frame is quite a deal considering I can run v-brakes still if I want (which I currently am). Welds are similar to those of frames that cost 2x as much and the paint job is quality too.

Ride quality is definetly up there. It's just a nimble riding frame that is great for riding singletrack. I love it. Just jumps when you get on the pedals yet the ride is not as harsh as you would expect from aluminum.

Weaknesses:
None really. Sure be nice if it was a wee lighter or wee cheaper but currently for the money/weight it's a steal.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Owned an On-One Inbred. Ridden GF, Niner SIR/EMD/Air, Karate Monkey, Dos Niner