? about Santa Cruz Blur

[sundial]

I've been thinking about the Blur and was wondering about the maintenance. Is the Blur mechanically difficult to maintain? When I shop for bikes I like to ask mechanics what they like/dislike about a bike. I've heard the Blur can be a pain to work on. Anyone want to share their experience? Thanks in advance.

[SuperRunt]

I just spent some time looking at FS mountain bikes. Santa Cruz was on my list. The one thing I kept hearing over and over (from stores that carry the bikes even!) was that the SC bikes have some issues. Apparently it's not uncommon to see them back in the shop after just one season, needing a new link kit!

I guess it depends on what kind of riding you do too, though...

I ended up with a Giant Trance. Which is a bike I've heard nothing but good things about...

[sundial]

Apparently it's not uncommon to see them back in the shop after just one season....

That's what my lbs mechanic said too. He said I can plan on yearly and costly upkeep.

[Adventure Girl]

I had a 2005 Blur XC. I put about 2,000 miles on it. After about 300 miles, it developed that "squeak" in the pivots. It was a great bike and I loved riding it, but the squeak squeak squeak was annoying! The bearings do NOT like mud. I had them replaced twice in two years. I finally decided not to ride it on muddy days.

I broke that frame and replaced the bike with a 2007 Blur XC. I really like it and I have not yet had to replace the bearings. But I never ride it in wet or muddy conditions. This winter I rode my single speed almost exclusively. It's a much better choice for riding through "ick".

My LBS sells lots of Santa Cruz bikes. And all winter there were LOTS of Blur XCs in for service! I think my mechanic told me that he bought something like 80 sets of bearings! It appears to be a pretty common problem.

I wouldn't recommend a Blur XC to someone for their primary mountain bike. When the conditions are good, it's a great bike. But I don't think it's a great every-day bike. I would compare it with having a convertible that you keep in the garage and only bring out on those sunny days!

[sundial]

[Becky]

Bummer....what other bikes are you considering?

[sundial]

Well, I tried the Specialized Stumpjumper and Epic, Trek 69'er, and Gary Fisher Hi Fi. Just thought it would be fun to own something a little different.