[berkshire_rider]

Anyone own one of these?
http://www.freedombikes.co.uk/images/lgphotopages/frm125.htm

I have seen the frame and shock for $600 or a XT / Avid build kit for $1500 at Jenson (who appears to be there US supplier), but they are currently out of stock. Is this a trail frame, or would it handle some light Freeride?

 

[math2014]

It can handle HEAVY freeride ...at least that is what people claim in the UK

 

[berkshire_rider]

It can handle HEAVY freeride at least that is what people claim in the UK

The craftworks website says the same thing. I was hoping for some first-hand knowledge, though.

 

[math2014]

A friend of mine from whistler gave it a try and he told me that in terms of strength of the frame it is on par with bighits.

The people in the UK were reliable freeriders/magazines.

I hope this helps. It is the best FS hardcore frame for the money in my opinion...together with the SX

 

[berkshire_rider]

 

[berkshire_rider]

Dammit. According to Jenson, Craftworks allegedly violated one of the Specialized patents and they can't be imported to the US anymore.

 

[berkshire_rider]

Any UK or Aust. 's see a Craftworks FRM125 in your LBS? 2003 or 2002 would work. A good condition used might work as well. Hopefully shipping won't be to harsh.

 

[Rik]

I know of a someone that's made a custom linkage plate to bump it out to 7+ inches of travel... there's 2 guys riding them for DH use, and I'll be a third by new year Can't wait to get my hands on it.
Very cheap bike for what it is, they are apparently strong as hell (enough for DH work it seems), and the US vs Aus dollar might make it even cheaper to buy it from here.
They've got a new frame for 04 though, which looks very promising... and apparently they're made in the same factory as the Banshee Scream. Interesting bike, shame it hasn't gotten as much popularity as it deserves.

Heh, and yeh, they've got a Horst link, whoops.

 

[berkshire_rider]

Very cheap bike for what it is, they are apparently strong as hell (enough for DH work it seems), and the US vs Aus dollar might make it even cheaper to buy it from here.

Have you seen any in the bike shops? I'm curious how much they are selling for in other countries.

 

[MMcG]

Originally posted by berkshire_rider
Have you seen any in the bike shops? I'm curious how much they are selling for in other countries.

Steve,

Why not trying to contact them directly at Craftworks, tell them how hot you are on the bike and see if there is any way you can buy direct from them or at least learn whether or not they'll be offered again in the States.

I am on their email list and just recently got an update from them saying that all their 2004 models are online now and the freeride frame looks killer. They list US distributors too if I remember correctly.

 

[thaflyinfatman]

Originally posted by berkshire_rider
The craftworks website says the same thing. I was hoping for some first-hand knowledge, though.

I've ridden a few (they're reasonably common over here in Oz), and they're super nice bikes. Pedal very well, not too heavy, good geometry, and generally solid all round. Haven't seen or heard of any broken ones.

 

[Rik]

Prices (estimates only)

Frame Only comes with choice of shock below and seat post and seat clamp

Frame with Manitou Swinger 4 Way Shock
Australian $ United States $ Euro €
$1850.00 $1250.00 €1100.00
Complete Bike (as per specs) $3950.00 $2750.00 €2300.00

Remember the price of your Craftworks frame or complete bike will vary from bicycle retailer to retailer. Prices will vary depending freight and delivery fees, exchange rates and quantities. You should always contact your nearest Craftworks dealer for a price.

Thanks to http://www.craftworkscycles.com/content/freeride/freeride.asp

the 03 frames were RRP'ing around the $2k mark in aussie stores, so they've taken a price drop too. Unfortunately for you (but great for us) our dollar is gaining strength.

 

[berkshire_rider]

Why not trying to contact them directly at Craftworks

I had, previously and never heard back. I sent out another email today.

 

[berkshire_rider]

Prices (estimates only)

Frame Only comes with choice of shock below and seat post and seat clamp

Frame with Manitou Swinger 4 Way Shock
Australian $ United States $ Euro €
$1850.00 $1250.00 €1100.00
Complete Bike (as per specs) $3950.00 $2750.00 €2300.00

Thanks, Rik.