Big Mountain Riding

Review: Scott Schekman

Photos: Scott Schekman & Randy King

This is a review of a 2008 Gary Fisher HiFi Deluxe 29. (The newer, redesigned HiFi’s geometry resembles the Superfly 100 )

The HiFi 29 hooks up well on steep, technical terrain

I had been looking to demo the Gary Fisher HiFi 29 for more than a year. So, I jumped at the chance when one of the guys at a local bike shop was nice enough to let me borrow his for a week.  The HiFi Deluxe 29 features 100MM (4-inches) travel on both ends, courtesy of a Fox RP2 shock and a Fox F29 RLC fork. The rest of the components were a mix: Avid BB7 brakes, Shimano SLX crankset and XTR front derailleur, SRAM X.0 rear derailleur and throwback grip shifters.  I used my own wheels and tires, a Continental Mountain King (front) and Race King (rear) tires mounted on Stan’s arch rims laced to WTB Laserlite hubs. With the light wheelset, the bike weighed in at 26lbs 2oz (11.8KG) including the Eggbeater pedals.  I also set up the 17.5″ (44.45CM) frame tested with an 80MM stem, which worked well for my height.

A fan of big wheels, I currently own two 29er’s, both hardtails- one setup as a rigid single speed. I have owned and ridden 26” full suspensions, including the 26” HiFi.  Alright, enough of the details. I rode this bike at my local trails, Virginia’s Candler’s Mountain (now called Liberty Mountain trails). These are an epic (+/- 60-miles/96.6KM) mix of single track, steep climbs and descents, fast fire road and technical trails. Now, on to the best part- the riding itself.  I found this bike to be pretty responsive to pedaling input even with the rear shock’s Pro Pedal in full open mode – although it is not as responsive as the new Gary Fisher Superfly 100. The ride was good but not plush, similar to the 26” HiFi.  This bike climbs well, whether the rider is seated or standing. It really hooked up on the steep, technical climbs that I seem to search out.

One challenging climb especially surprised me; it’s a steep, rooty climb that I have only cleaned once out of about thirty attempts on my Salsa Mamacita.  I got it on my third try on this bike. I think full suspension with wagon wheels make a great combination in this situation. The steering and handling were very good and predictable at both slow and higher speeds.  Switch backs were not a problem either, whether going up or down. I noticed no flex in the frame, but heavier riders may.

Overall, the longer I rode this bike, the more I enjoyed it.  It does everything well.  If you are looking for a big wheel full suspension bike that you can ride (and race) in most situations, this one is worth looking into. In fact, you may want to start checking eBay and Craig’s List to find a used one for sale.

© Big Mountain Riding

Wagon Wheels and dual suspenders pair well on the HiFi 29