Review Date
August 13, 2008

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Aerobic Difficulty
 4 of 5

Technical Difficulty
 0 of 5

Reviewed by: chuckjoga ,  Cross Country Rider , from Denver, Colorado, USA

Favorite Trail:
Less than 1 month

Summary:
Buy this bike discounted or used. MSRP is only about $150 less than the better spec'ed geared Caffeine 2. Brakes are adequate, but need more power. The Lefty fork makes it unique and works very well. Geared a little tall for Colorado. If you are looking for a factory single speed with front suspension, you will not be disappointed. If you are not sure that a 29er single speed is for you, buy a cheap rigid first. Only 4 chilis for value because $1600 is way too much. 4 chilis overall because of brakes.

Strengths:
Lefty fork has incredible feel, stable handling, beautiful frame and finish. Stiff bottom bracket. Good stock seat.

Weaknesses:
Stock mechanical brakes are weak. Large front rotor should have more stopping power. Stuck/sticky eccentric adjuster. Lefty fork can't be used on rack for drop-outs unless an adapter is used. A little heavy. MSRP price too high.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Motobecane Outcast 29