K2 EVO vs Trek Liquid

[Matno]

Just went on my first "real" MTB ride in a while (too long), and took along a friend with a brand new Trek Liquid 10. Not top of the line, but decently spec'd with RockShox Psylo C fork (125mm travel) and Fox Talas R rear air shock (up to 5" of rear wheel travel). I was surprised initially that it was heavier than my bike, which I estimate to weigh about 29lbs (was 27 before the switch to disc brakes and wheels). Once on the trail, we switched rides for a while, and I was really surprised at the difference in feel. While the Liquid felt more "solid" to me (I think that translates to lateral rigidity), the EVO, with Helix Pro rear and X-vert fork, was absolutely smoother. Both of us agreed that the EVO was a much better ride, and I even had a hard time getting him to switch back after 20 minutes or so!

This is limited, anecdotal evidence, I know, but suffice it to say that the Liquid was a bike that I've been coveting since it came out. Not any more...

[Old Proflexer]

right on point with what i've been saying for quite some time -

newer technology is not necessarily an improvement, just different.  hard to improve on the monopivot design with the latest in shock techology - even with an nr- they still hard to beat - including the weight factor.

- hey, did you ever heal up to be fully functional?

OP

[Carbon_Angus]

i rode one quite a-ways back and found it very rigid but couldn't really "find" the travel. It had a Fox 125 Vanilla on it and that was sweet, though.

i think if it was dialed in for me i'd like it, but then i still ride my Pro~Flex/k2's with Noleen...so go figure

[jimbo]

Mountain Bike Magazine dittos your review:

http://www.mountainbike.com/bikes/0403_trekliquid30.shtml

[Matno]

hey, did you ever heal up to be fully functional?

OP

If you're referring to my hand, then yes, I'm fully functonal and pain free. Modern medicine is amazing. Unfortunately, I didnt' even get much of a scar...

[Old Proflexer]

Price: $3,080 (30); $1,870 (Liquid 10); $2,200 (Liquid 20);
$1,650 (frame only)
Weight: 31 lbs.


thought this was worth noting for those who are looking to buy new as opposed to upgrading their evo -


OP

(yes, just curious about your wrist, was wondering if you ever made it back to 100%)

[pedro]

My riding buddy uses a trek 20. I agree 100% with the above opinions: the trek feels more solid, but is less compliant, does not absorb bumps as much, feels like it has much less travel. May be due to the air shock.