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!