ELLSWORTH ISIS? Feelings? Experience?

[Spamula]

Just wondering what the general consensus is on the Ellsworth Isis?

I have the opportunity to get one for a good price and am wondering how it will hold up?

I am 140# 5'8" Ride mostly aggresive XC but am moving into 3 foot drops, rock gardens, and some log bridges.

Thanks for your input.


--->Safe Travels<---

[thanita]

I'm actually in the midst of reviewing the ISIS right now (they came out with a teeny 13" er, perfect for me! It sounds smaller than it is :p ) and although I've not put it through all the tests, I rode a 24 hr race in Tucson with it and it performed admirably. The bike was actually overkill for the course, as it wasn't technical, but it rode well, had minimal bob and just felt good and solid all around. It's not a superlight bike, but a superlight "light freeride" bike would be a contradiction in terms, eh? Like I said, my verdict isn't out on the isis yet, but so far so good. And, it does sound like it would suit your riding style. Any other bikes you're considering?
T

[Spamula]

Thanks for the replies! Keep 'em comin!

And Thanita, please let me know your final, "official" thoughts when you have them. I was worried no one would review the Isis any more because it's an older design.

As of now I have already bought my bike. A beautiful, black, anodized, 15" Isis dubbed The Dragon (because of the fiery red dragon sticker I slapped on there instead of the ugly Aeon logo).

I had been looking at the Santa Cruz Superlight, and Bullit...but those didn't seem quite right. I rode some Konas, some Specialized and a couple of different Sugars. None of them seemed as zippy yet burly as the Isis. I was really into the new Heckler as well, but it was just too damn expensive. I think the Heckler would've been a fine choice but it's kind of nice having a bike that not many people are familiar with.

The worry with our bikes is that not only is it an investment, but it's also going to be your best friend and chariot too!

[thanita]

Yeah, I have a Superlight as well, and it's definitely a step down in burliness/travel (although it's an awesome all around bike, don't get me wrong). The Heckler is cool, yeah and pricey, and I think the Bullitt may be a bit too overbuilt for cruising purposes. Both great, though . . . I think the ISIS sounds like a good choice. Review most likely in issue after next! Happy trails,
T