Official Trek DS owners thread
#126
Member
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 38
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
My LBS just received the replacement forks so I dropped by to take a peek before they are installed on our bikes. The color wasn't horrible and isn't really an issue with me, however, I'll see when it's been installed and if all the new parts align with my inner cycling Feng Shui. For me it's all about the functionality and safety of the forks and the lockout. I'm also getting a different stem installed to eliminate some neck stiffness and hand tingling that surface on my longer rides and plan to (eventually) upgrade my grips (Ergon GP2 or P-1 MG?) so I can't wait to see how this all works out.
A follow-up e-mail from Trek on the progress, issues and customer concerns (Q&A) of the recall would've been a great PR move. I'm sure this is a tough event for them with lots of crazy dynamics to try and sort and navigate, hopefully they've learned a few things and hopefully this won't happen again.
Bicycle Habitat has some good info on numb hands, I would also get some good padded cycling gloves, that helped me quite (30%) a bit.
https://bicyclehabitat.com/faq/frequently-asked-questions-fq176/how-can-i-prevent-numb-hands-when-riding-47.htm
A follow-up e-mail from Trek on the progress, issues and customer concerns (Q&A) of the recall would've been a great PR move. I'm sure this is a tough event for them with lots of crazy dynamics to try and sort and navigate, hopefully they've learned a few things and hopefully this won't happen again.
Bicycle Habitat has some good info on numb hands, I would also get some good padded cycling gloves, that helped me quite (30%) a bit.
https://bicyclehabitat.com/faq/frequently-asked-questions-fq176/how-can-i-prevent-numb-hands-when-riding-47.htm
Last edited by ROB DS; 07-09-14 at 08:48 AM. Reason: run on words
#128
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Tasmania Australia
Posts: 270
Bikes: 2014 Avanti Cadent ERII 2, 2013 Trek DS 8.4, 2008 Norco Wolverine
Mentioned: 1 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 16 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 5 Times
in
3 Posts
Firstly apologise for ****e camera phone pictures in a dark underground carpark .
Picked up both the 8.3 and the 8.4. Nothing to see on the 8.3 just a new skewer.
Here's the 2013 DS 8.4 ( Matte white ) with the new glossy fork
Much better lockout switch, not going to lose the lockout lever with this one.
Much better preload knob as well
Yes it's glossy compared to the matte but it doesn't stand out that much which is good. Besides the "mismatch" I'm pretty happy with the replacement. The LBS technician said it was definetly an upgrade from the Suntour NRX it replaced
Picked up both the 8.3 and the 8.4. Nothing to see on the 8.3 just a new skewer.
Here's the 2013 DS 8.4 ( Matte white ) with the new glossy fork
Much better lockout switch, not going to lose the lockout lever with this one.
Much better preload knob as well
Yes it's glossy compared to the matte but it doesn't stand out that much which is good. Besides the "mismatch" I'm pretty happy with the replacement. The LBS technician said it was definetly an upgrade from the Suntour NRX it replaced
#129
Newbie
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 3
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Well just picked up my 2012 DS 8.5 from the recall replacement and I am rather disappointed. I now have a high gloss black fork on a matte gray frame and no more remote lockout. The gloss white one looks decent on the wife's Neko SL but mine just looks out of place on the 8.5.
#130
Newbie
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 3
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I called Trek. They said have the shop resubmit the claim to get one with a remote lockout. As for the paint they said tough luck. Quoted a song and dance about they did the best the could to find a fork with neutral color options to match the best they could since Suntour is not participating in the recall and they are shouldering all the costs.
Last edited by ZOOTOOZ; 07-12-14 at 10:41 PM. Reason: Spelling correction
#131
Member
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 38
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 2 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
https://oldglorymtb.com/top-10-best-mountain-bike-grips/
Last edited by ROB DS; 07-10-14 at 06:55 AM. Reason: word format issues after cut/paste?
#132
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 94
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 2 Times
in
1 Post
Can this be right? I wonder how Suntour gets away with "not participating". My understanding was that the CPSC required the recall, and since its a Suntour part, it seems to me they would have to participate. This leads me to believe this is a voluntary recall rather than a manditory one. Does anyone know?
Scott, Trek Recall Bicycles with SR Suntour Front Forks Due to Crash Hazard | CPSC.gov
#133
Junior Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 6
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I do not see where it says voluntary. Either way my guess is from the CPSC point of view Trek is the 'manufacturer' and the one responsible for the recall. It is probably up to Trek to get their supplier to help or not. It would be the same thing for most parts on your car that are manufactured by a 3rd party but came on the vehicle when you bought it. Seems rather stupid on Suntour's part though as I'm sure Trek is going to take their business elsewhere now.
I do agree that it does feel like it's probably a better fork. And yes the preload adjustment is much easier. I'll just stick with the one I got for now, when I get the remote lockout one if the color is really still bothering me I'll have a friend paint it for me. The LBS seems very interested in making sure I'm happy so perhaps I could get them to tear it down for paint and then put it back together for me after.
I do agree that it does feel like it's probably a better fork. And yes the preload adjustment is much easier. I'll just stick with the one I got for now, when I get the remote lockout one if the color is really still bothering me I'll have a friend paint it for me. The LBS seems very interested in making sure I'm happy so perhaps I could get them to tear it down for paint and then put it back together for me after.
#134
Junior Member
Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: Mesa, AZ
Posts: 6
Bikes: 2014 Trek 8.2 DS
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Old Glory has a detailed article (Caldwell) that rates the best 10 mountain bike grips and gives the riders some different options. It also has some pretty cool (helpful) illustrations that really clarify what is the best angle for the wrist with a traditional or ergonomic grip (148 degree angle) and how the correct positioning could alleviate pain. It compares the two Ergon Grips (GS1 and GP1) as well. When I get my bike back I'm going to recheck my Bonrager Satellite Elite grip, I don't think they are set at the correct angle for me.
https://oldglorymtb.com/top-10-best-mountain-bike-grips/
https://oldglorymtb.com/top-10-best-mountain-bike-grips/
#135
Newbie
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Pennsylvania
Posts: 3
Bikes: 2011 Trek Montare, 2013 Trek DS 8.5, 2010 Kuota Kharma, 2014 Giant Simple 3
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I have been riding my 2013 DS 8.5 about 50 miles a week since I bought it and have had no issues with the iso-zone. I am a bit concerned about the recall as I am not willing to give up the remote lockout, and if my lbs can't assure me that the new fork will have it, I will have to wait until they can. Worse, I actually have two bikes affected - I also have a 2011 Montare that I have setup for pavement riding. Thinking about having the Montare done first since it gets ridden less this time of year and then once I'm happy with it I'll take the 8.5 in. I'll have to post some pics......
#136
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Canada
Posts: 134
Bikes: 2013 Trek DS 8.4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 3 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
Seriously though, I am not impressed with this whole situation. Manufacturing defects of the original notwithstanding, the Vita just doesn't look as robust. The stanchions are noticeably smaller in diameter, there is less to the crown, and the action is stiff as heck (even with pre-load at its minimum). Between that and the color mismatch, my resale value has just plummeted....
#137
Banned.
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Vegemite Island
Posts: 4,130
Bikes: 2017 Surly Troll with XT Drive Train, 2017 Merida Big Nine XT Edition, 2016 Giant Toughroad SLR 2, 1995 Trek 830
Mentioned: 29 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1916 Post(s)
Liked 310 Times
in
218 Posts
I think I got your fork. JUST picked my 2013 8.4 from the shop and the guy was like "you got an upgrade: remote lockout!". LOL.
Seriously though, I am not impressed with this whole situation. Manufacturing defects of the original notwithstanding, the Vita just doesn't look as robust. The stanchions are noticeably smaller in diameter, there is less to the crown, and the action is stiff as heck (even with pre-load at its minimum). Between that and the color mismatch, my resale value has just plummeted....
Seriously though, I am not impressed with this whole situation. Manufacturing defects of the original notwithstanding, the Vita just doesn't look as robust. The stanchions are noticeably smaller in diameter, there is less to the crown, and the action is stiff as heck (even with pre-load at its minimum). Between that and the color mismatch, my resale value has just plummeted....
#139
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Tasmania Australia
Posts: 270
Bikes: 2014 Avanti Cadent ERII 2, 2013 Trek DS 8.4, 2008 Norco Wolverine
Mentioned: 1 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 16 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 5 Times
in
3 Posts
I noticed that too. I think that's how it goes with the Vitas. Can you have a look at your fork, where the cable routes inside the fork mine has a protective sticker which I assume is to protect the fork where it rubs, which again leads me to believe that's how it's supposed to be routed.
#140
Junior Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 6
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Well from what I can find online the Vita is about a $150 USD fork. The NRX seems to run around the same. I can't say I was ever real happy with the NRX though either. You say the Vita is too stiff but I couldn't get the NRX stiff enough. Hoping the weather will cooperate and I can get out this weekend and give the Vita a good test. We'll see maybe it's time I break down and buy a good fork, but I would rather not since I just do light recreational riding. Plus if I buy one for myself the wife might want one too which means costs will add up fast.
Mine is also routed that way. I'll have to look for the sticker you mention.
Mine is also routed that way. I'll have to look for the sticker you mention.
#141
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Canada
Posts: 134
Bikes: 2013 Trek DS 8.4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 3 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
I noticed that too. I think that's how it goes with the Vitas. Can you have a look at your fork, where the cable routes inside the fork mine has a protective sticker which I assume is to protect the fork where it rubs, which again leads me to believe that's how it's supposed to be routed.
Having a hose on the inside just seems like a bad idea to me.
Last edited by Sunsanvil; 07-11-14 at 08:09 AM.
#142
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Canada
Posts: 134
Bikes: 2013 Trek DS 8.4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 3 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
I found the NRX's action to be quite plush, though I admit my wife's (on a Neko SL) was too compliant, but we chalked that up to the WSD using an (allegedly) light spring. Assuming her replacement is the same as mine this may work out in her favor in that instance at least. Picking hers up later today....
Last edited by Sunsanvil; 07-11-14 at 08:08 AM.
#143
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Tasmania Australia
Posts: 270
Bikes: 2014 Avanti Cadent ERII 2, 2013 Trek DS 8.4, 2008 Norco Wolverine
Mentioned: 1 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 16 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 5 Times
in
3 Posts
Just had another look and the little sticker says "60mm travel". Coincidence that it's where the brake cable rubs or intentional? Strange though that 3 bike shops in 3 different countries route it the same way if it's not right
#144
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,122
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1579 Post(s)
Liked 1,186 Times
in
604 Posts
Just a quick heads-up to DS owners: if you otherwise love your bike etc., seems to me there's now a very worthwhile solution to the fork issues; not overly-expensive either.
Paragon | Rockshox | SRAM
Just a thought.
Paragon | Rockshox | SRAM
Just a thought.
#145
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Canada
Posts: 134
Bikes: 2013 Trek DS 8.4
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 3 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
#146
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,122
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1579 Post(s)
Liked 1,186 Times
in
604 Posts
Yes, been discussed previously! If this old man were to switch to a front-suspension bike (and I well might the next year or so), I would change out the forks for this (Paragon) at point of sale, unless of course the bike came stock with it.
#148
Banned.
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Vegemite Island
Posts: 4,130
Bikes: 2017 Surly Troll with XT Drive Train, 2017 Merida Big Nine XT Edition, 2016 Giant Toughroad SLR 2, 1995 Trek 830
Mentioned: 29 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1916 Post(s)
Liked 310 Times
in
218 Posts
I really love the paint scheme on your bike and would like to see more pics of it, from various angles, including a top down view, showing what a rider sees as they sit on the bike.
#149
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Tasmania Australia
Posts: 270
Bikes: 2014 Avanti Cadent ERII 2, 2013 Trek DS 8.4, 2008 Norco Wolverine
Mentioned: 1 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 16 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 5 Times
in
3 Posts
I originally went into the Lbs to buy a grey 8.3 but they didn't have my size in the 8.3. They upsold me on the better spec forks, gears and hydraulic brakes and the colour appealed to the missus as well and since she was paying for it as my birthday/stop smoking present who was I to complain. It's a ***** to keep clean if you're obsessive about those sort of things though (I'm kinda obsessive).
Here's one pic I've got at hand. Pipeline track Mount Wellington, Tassie