BikesDirect cuts corners on retail, sales, overhead, marketing, etc costs. No inventory to maintain, no store upkeep, no payroll, etc. A Trek equivalent to the Hal Boost might be in the $3500 range. In addition to paying for the nifty "Trek" decal on the downtube, you're also paying the markup so the LBS can turn a profit. The Motobecane frames are built by Kinesis, who also builds frames for Trek, GT, Giant, Kona, Schwinn, etc.
Truth ✌️. Some people need the brand name support for product confidence. $$ tends to dictate my purchases more than brand confidence. Thanks for the comment.🤙
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 What people don't realize is that Motobecane warranties their frames, and since all other components come with documentation, they too are warrantied by their manufacturers. Incidentally, I've been on a Fantom29 hardtail for nearly 4 years now and beat the s*** out of it. XC, downhill, rock gardens, roots, gravel, etc. I've upgraded a few things like the fork, crankset, etc, but the frame is as solid as it was the day I pulled it out of the box.
I have the Hal29 NX. My second Motobecane. It dials in at 25lbs out of the box. 120mm front and rear - it's more of an xc/trail bike. Both bikes were great deals and stand the test of time and my usage (230lbs). I took my time and did a few upgrades over time. Better rims and hubs made a huge difference on the Phantom DS Pro. Thanks for your review! I wish I could afford to get your bike too - even though I don't currently ride near your type of terrain.
Assuming the bike only has one available fork option. I'd say the bottom bracket height could vary noticeably even by the tire and wheel choice. Even mounted on the same wheels with the same advertised size. My tire would hit the seat when bottoming the suspension with a WTB Verdict. Vs not hitting with a Maxxis Agressor. Varying rim width can also cause identical tires to have a different side wall profile. I know the manufacturer of my bike allowed me to spec the bike with multiple wheel/tire and even fork options. So they can't really guarantee BB height will be the same on every build.
There is quite a bit of wheel clearance. There is a 29r option, I think. Pike is only option on this version. I upgraded the air shaft to increase travel to 160. I find riding locked out on technical climbs reduced pedal strikes a bit.🔥🔥✌️🤙
I've heard that one of the big ways they're able to sell these bikes for so little is that they just buy rights for pennies on the dollar to old designs from big names that they've stopped making for long enough they're not worried about losing sales of newer stuff. So they don't spend anything on R&D and are using proven designs that are probably 3-5 years behind the most current trends but being built by the same folks that built them for whatever big-name brand they originally built them for. I really appreciate the video, feedback from folks that have lived with one of these bikes for a while is scarce.
I have a 2017 Hal 6 Team. I love the bike, but the Novatech wheel Hubs suck. After about 3 months rear hub was skipping occasionally. So I would definitely plan on at least upgrading the rear wheel within the first year. I bought a new rear wheel with a DT Swiss 350 rear hub from Colorado Cyclist for about $320. Much needed upgrade. I wouldn't hesitate to buy any of the new Hal 6 bikes from Bikes Direct. Just factor in cost of new wheelset when shopping bikes. All the other hardware has been solid with no issues.
Good 6 month review video. I commented on your unboxing video about having the 2019 29er version. I have the same complaints in hitting the pedals. I've gotten good at locking out the rear shock before a rocky uphill(live in Va. mountains). Just gotta remember to unlock it for the downhills. Took a dive today because I forgot. I thrash the crap out of mine and no issues. Great videos
I'm learning to handle the pedals but as time goes by I may make some of the upgrades. I find it doesn't matter how much you spend, 5k or 2k you always find something to upgrade for your personal taste. Thanks for the comments. 🤙🤙
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 I was thinking about how to install one as I rode today. Would make it alot nicer. Stay healthy and remember it's about having fun with what you have. Happy biking
BB height will change with tire size(obviously) but tread design and height will also add or take another 3-5mm , Great video for people considering buying bikes direct vs Santa Cruz or any other major brand.
by shortening the crankarm you will reduce the play in the rear hub at the expense of leverage torque in the pedal stroke without actually doing anything to the rear hub. I say this because you should start with one approach or the other and not do both simultaneously to see how you like it. Looks like a great little bike.
Thanks for reviewing this brand! The bikes direct website looks like it time-warped from the 90's haha so I think a lot of people question how legit their bikes are. Definitely hard to beat Motobecane HAL for value, I would say that Vitus comes close. I'm looking at their Mythique VRX right now, has a nice high bottom bracket to climb over rocks and features :)
7:10 Is it possible that the manufacturers like to measure height from the center of the BB while you are measuring from the bottom of the BB? I would think they would do this to produce better sounding numbers. That's my first thought. The other thoughts are different tires and maybe differing suspension settings to explain the "estimated" part. So if you're measuring around 320 on most regular MTBs vs slightly over 300 for the eMTB, I think that's fine. Hardcore MTB "purists" aren't purchasing an ebike so for the rest of us non-hardcore, that 20mm will never be noticed. I'm 51 now and definitely don't ride like I used to when I was 22. Another note, I've been living in Phoenix since 1989 (when I was 18) and I only know MTB riding here, so the pedal-strike issue is simply something I've always had to contend with. I know nothing else. Interesting thoughts that you have on it. Some things I hadn't thought of. I also didn't even know it was called "stutter step", but it makes sense.
Good review, very fair. I'm 6'3" and ran 160mm cranks without any problem. Didn't really notice the difference. Mine was to fit a longer dropper post which helps on those descents that are pretty gnarly, but it did cut down on pedal strikes. A cheap upgrade would be a shorter stem and wider bar. You can keep the reach and do it for under a hundred. If It's anything like HAL E-boost I did a fitting on, its a really narrow bar. Gravity components are house brand for BikesDirect. Your basic Formula entry level hub.
What size did you ride at 6'3"? I'm trying to figure out of the XL would work for me at 6'5" as a more playful backup trail bike for my Trek Fuel EX8 XXL.
Wow you and i must of brought ours around the same time. I so far love my hal boost, i did upgrade the wheelset right away that rear hubs sucks, upgraded the brakes, wider bars and shorter stem. All well worth the money for a solid bike. Next and final upgrade is 170mm cranks i agree the 175s are too long for a 27.5 bike
They don't shave corners. They bring partially-assembled bikes direct from factories in Taiwan and China in containers to a warehouse in Texas and then ship them direct to customers. They do very little advertising, don't have the overhead of a normal retail bike shop or even online bike shop, and just ship direct to customers. That's how they do it. There's no secret here - they just cut out the normal overhead, sacrifice a little margin in return for volume, and can't trade on brand cachet. The bikes are not cutting edge, but just fine.
Great review, thanks for the follow up it helps to know a bike is lasting. After a couple years, how do you feel about the build of the frame? Does the frame have the quality to be built on over the next 10 years? I'm not a jumper, but will do drops, heavy root/rocks, and my extra weight punishes a suspension. I don't need a name brand, just a frame that performs well, will last, and be a ton of fun to ride. Thx
You absolutely NAILED it why I went with Bikesdirect when you explained the niche they fill and why I bought this bike. I wanted a well spec'd bike for my kids 1st really decent bike. I tried to shop the LBS, and I spent hrs online finding cool bikes that were totally unavailable. I was done dedicating time to the hunt and the research. I'm just a casual enthusiast. I have (many) other hobbies besides MTB. LBS store inventories have been miserable and choices have been non-existent. This deal was there, although it was a pre-order that came 45 days late on top of that. But if you only want to drop $2500 or less, I could not find any bikes with comparable shocks & Eagle GX components. And I'll add this, that satin black finish on black gloss accents looks strikingly cool. What it looks like wasn't a priority and we were pleasantly surprised how cool it looks.
I agree ..... I've had a Taz3 3" tires with the Deore package for a couple of weeks now and like it no regrets. It was $1100 + 100 tax to the door ... Cost?????? they have very little overhead , you put some of it together yourself no store front . I think if they would keep the name Motobecane off the bike they would sell more, but makes no difference to me. The only problem is if you want one they have none in stock......they will presale you one now pay for it and send it to you in December. I paid for mine and waited over a month or so
Thanks for this great video. I purchased the same bike (27.5+). Your video had alot to do with it. Thanks for putting this great video together. I did not take seriously enough your comment about bottom bracket ground clearance. If I had to do it again I would have bought the 29" wheels. Did you ever try the shorter 165mm cranks? What did you do about the excessive engagement slop in the rear hub? I looked at changing out the damper tube on the rear shock from 190mm to 200mm to get more bottom bracket clearance but after taking the shock off realized that 200mm eye to eye dimension would not fit within the frame. 190mm eye to eye is is the longest shock you can use. Running the rear shock at 20% sag helped with ground strikes however it makes the rear shock stiffer than I would like. I have basically come to the conclusion that I will get new wheels (29") with a better rear hub eventually. Still love the bike. Just made the wrong choice on the wheel size I think.
I have stuck with the 27.5 . I've learned to deal with the bb height. I still may get the 165mm cranks though. Going to 29" with 2.4-5" tires would solve the issue totally. Good luck 🤙. Thanks for the view and comments. BTW I still love the bike for the price.
Weedend Mountain Biker: Yes I love the bike for the price as well. I am going to ride it until Christmas. I may adapt as well. 29" wheels with a better rear hub may be my Christmas present this year. Again, thanks for the review. I have six months to sell it to my wife 😊.
nice review. i've been mt biking for a few years now, but not as often as i want to. tackling some steep terrain can be brutal, so i'm looking to get an eMt bike. is the boost level easy to adjust on the fly? how long does the fully charge battery last?
Sorry my friend, the "Boost" refers to the geometry. You get no help pedaling this bike, all legs and heart. I do believe that they offer an ebike though. Bikesdirect.com
I was torn as well. Fezzari you can finance. But the components on the Boost did it for me. I don't think you can go wrong either way. Just get one and get out there riding. Get a good helmet a sub my channel.🤙🤙🤜🤛
Would love to. How long before you think you actually film the review. Is this a long term review? If the timing works, wee could do a trail and I can get some action shots of you and the bike. What's your favorite local ride?
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 basically it's a 6 month review like yours. Then eventually a long term review. Ya man let's plan it out this week. This weekend if not we can do it the next weekend. I want to explore some of my local trails
I have the same bike, but the large 29er, and I love it! It's not for bike snobs, but I just want to ride - not a show bike! Thought I probably wouldn't take it to Whistler.
Add up what you'd pay MSRP for all of the components. Does it happen to be almost exactly what bikesdirect asks for the bike (90% assembled and shipped to your door)? Buy it! How can you go wrong? ;)
I've been banging mine up for close to a year now on diamond to double diamond trails and I'm hanging with bikes that cost three times as much with no problems... Squeaky bb. Fixed that though.✌️🤙👍
Remember this is medium. Center of the seat post to center of the stem is 22" Center of the seat post to the center of the handle bars 25.25"(70mm stem, I would not go any longer on the stem though, 70mm is Max length for snappy handling)
I just ordered the HAL Boost pro S12 29er (shimano SLX drivetrain) with the dt swiss x1900 wheels and 370 hub. Im curious to know was this on your shopping list as well since pricing is identical to the HAL Boost Pro eagle with the WTB wheels and i assume the generic hubs you mentioned?
I got the "eagle". But really there is no different between the two, to speak of. You'll want your local bike shop to tune the derailleur and do a good brake bleed. I bleed my brakes for the first time myself and they work much better now. Must have been some air in the system. Thanks for the comments 👍
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 thanks. I have one more question for you,. Fortunately i am a similar height with similar inseam 5'10" 32" inseam, do you feel the cockpit too cramped on a medium with the factory 70mm stem? or maybe the cockpit is too far of a reach and the stem needs to be shortened? Just going by photos the reach seems short, but based on measurements it seems to be reasonable when compared to other bikes.
@@bryanh9288 I think the reason it feels okay is because of the 70 millimeter stem. I prefer 30-50mm but since this is a medium 70 is good. I also slid my seat back in the rails as far back as is recommended by the measurements on the rails.
Hi Ryan. I'm also interested in the bike and live in the Phoenix area. I'm around your height and was wondering if I should get a medium. Hoping I could meet up with you and have a closer look at your bike when you ride next time. Let me know if that would work with you. Great video.
Good info man. I’m planning to purchase the Hal Boost with AXS technology. It runs $2,600. Any thoughts on this bike, the components seem to be pretty stellar at such a low price point. When I look at Trek or Specialized with comparable components they are in the $7,000+ range. This deep seems too good to be true
It is a great bike Armando. They save money in some areas like the wheels, bottom bracket and head set, handle bars, grips, pedals. The fundamentals of the bike are great though. Enjoy. Thanks for the comments and checking out my video 🤙
I bought the Hal Boost S12 thats slightly cheaper at $2000 with Shimano SLX components and XT rear mech. It really rides like a bike that is too good too be true but I love it so much. The only things I'll upgrade over some time is the dropper lever, handlebar, and stem.
@@jkd_exe Do you have a video or pictures of the bike? I'm actually looking to buy the same model and prefer the SLX/XT build would like to hear from someone who has the bike. Thanks in advance. IG username Alex__AP1 in case you want to get to me.
Great review! Been looking at this bike and I’m in between sizes and I was wondering if anyone else is in my situation and you Summed it up for me thank you!
Yes it is, but try to find one. None to be had....unless you have a secrete you could share. I just sold my Talon 3, it was my first bike. I also have a Vitus Mythique, but I want that Trance really bad.
@@mcduffrobert , I agree, the virus, cause huge shortage of all bikes. And this time of year tough too because your in between model years, few months 2021 models will out, everyone is low now including bikes direct, most you are waiting until Sept
One thing I realized is that climbing locked out keeps the suspension high and I have less pedal strikes at least while climbing tech. Thanks for the comment.
Hi, now that you have the bike, how accurate is the geometry chart posted on bikesdirect to the real thing? Cause I have read many people claiming the geometry chart they provide is off.
I'd like to know if the reach is accurate. For the large its suppose to be 430mm but that seems really close and most small bikes come in around 430ish. I was wanting this bike for a while but after more research and seeing the 430 reach, I've backed off from it. That and the really narrow wheels.
@@neighbordave5691 Hi David, thanks for checking out my video. So I measured from the center of my handlebars (with the supplied stem of 70mm) to the center of my seat post in the raised position, which is basically the same height as the center of the handlebars, the distance is 26" or 660mm. This is the medium size frame.
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 Try measuring a horizontal line from the tip of the seat post to the middle of the headset, as that is what a reach actually is and can help us compare apples to apples!
What size is this bike, and what are your stats (height/weight/etc.)? I'm 6'5" and wondering if the XL would work for me as a smaller/more playful trail bike (already have a 2020 Trek Fuel EX8 XXL, which is a tank and I need a backup bike). Also, can this bike fit 2.6" wide 29er wheels?
The bike I got is medium but I moved the seat back and kept the 70 mm stem. If I were you I would definitely go xl. I think it would take 2.6 29's but if you want playful maybe stay with 27.5 2.6". Thanks for checking out the video.
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 Thanks for the response! I have a bike with 27.5+ and a bike with 29ers. Pros and cons to both sizes! 29ers are goats up hills and are good at covering a lot of distance. 27.5+ is more playful but are tiny on a big frame!
HAL BOOST PRO S12 They have changed some things though. I found that the bb height is closer to 300. After measuring a Hightower and SB130, there stated bb heights were off also. They were a little bit lower in reality than the specs claimed.
Thanks for the review! The link looks a little weak to me for reason. Do you notice flexing in the back end? I think you’re right about that niche market but I think direct to consumer companies are on to that.
Adam I’m looking at the Hal 5.5 as well. What bikes are you coming from ? I have a hello Dave , inbreed hard tails . And wanted a full to add into the stable
@@hatrix11 I would def suggest the HAL 5.5 to anyone. great beginners or intermediate FS bike. I previously rode an old Trek 4300 and 4900 hardtail. to ride real trails I had to outfit my 4300 with a hydraulic disk front brake. this is an awesome bike for a great deal.
@@atomicdemise the geo is pretty modern for motobecane with the 5.5 I ride pretty aggressive hard tails on mostly reds but getting up there in age and want to get back on a fs how’s the recon fork holding up ? Ty
@@hatrix11 oh yeah, it's holding up. I got the Hal recon in august and have risen it on pretty aggressive trails probably 3 or 4 days a week since getting it set up. the fork is fantastic for the $$, and I love the single valve with the +/- chambers. it makes self-maintenance a much easier hassle. also, I wasn't completely honest- i actually ordered the Hal 5.5 recon on a preorder special so it was only 1399$ but I had to wait 4+ months for it. still worth saving 500$🤑
@@atomicdemise thanks for your replies I’m killing you with all the questions Are you doing drops on the Hal ? I like the geo on the Hal 5.5 rather than the Hal boost Also I can get it with wireless axs group set for $1600
That’s the beauty of #eMTBs, u can decide what kind of workout u want by adjusting the assist level, if I want to put in the work u can but I’m the guy who loves covering more terrain! It’s all your choice buddy
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 Flawed logic, you can get more downs in the same amount of time from e-climbs! I'm not on an E yet, but one will be added to my stable after they have been around longer...
I'm between a used Specialized Stump Jumper and a used one of these. Any recommendations or advice? I can get one for $1,600 does that sound like a decent deal?
BikesDirect cuts corners on retail, sales, overhead, marketing, etc costs. No inventory to maintain, no store upkeep, no payroll, etc. A Trek equivalent to the Hal Boost might be in the $3500 range. In addition to paying for the nifty "Trek" decal on the downtube, you're also paying the markup so the LBS can turn a profit. The Motobecane frames are built by Kinesis, who also builds frames for Trek, GT, Giant, Kona, Schwinn, etc.
Truth ✌️. Some people need the brand name support for product confidence. $$ tends to dictate my purchases more than brand confidence. Thanks for the comment.🤙
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 What people don't realize is that Motobecane warranties their frames, and since all other components come with documentation, they too are warrantied by their manufacturers.
Incidentally, I've been on a Fantom29 hardtail for nearly 4 years now and beat the s*** out of it. XC, downhill, rock gardens, roots, gravel, etc. I've upgraded a few things like the fork, crankset, etc, but the frame is as solid as it was the day I pulled it out of the box.
Same with dirt bikes, most all the parts come from the same factory - Suzuki, Kawasaki, Honda, Yamaha.
I have the Hal29 NX. My second Motobecane. It dials in at 25lbs out of the box. 120mm front and rear - it's more of an xc/trail bike. Both bikes were great deals and stand the test of time and my usage (230lbs). I took my time and did a few upgrades over time. Better rims and hubs made a huge difference on the Phantom DS Pro.
Thanks for your review! I wish I could afford to get your bike too - even though I don't currently ride near your type of terrain.
Just picked up one at the newer price of $1388. Haven't ridden in 20 years. looking forward to riding again.
Thanks for the review! This is literally just in time for me at 6' and 200#, deciding between a M or L.
For you I'd say large 🤙 for sure. You'll love it. Spend the money you save on a full face helmet 🔥
By way of reference. Large Santa Cruz Hightower center of the seat post to stem center is 23.5".
BB height can only be estimated as it will vary with any specific tires/rims combinations.
Assuming the bike only has one available fork option. I'd say the bottom bracket height could vary noticeably even by the tire and wheel choice. Even mounted on the same wheels with the same advertised size. My tire would hit the seat when bottoming the suspension with a WTB Verdict. Vs not hitting with a Maxxis Agressor. Varying rim width can also cause identical tires to have a different side wall profile. I know the manufacturer of my bike allowed me to spec the bike with multiple wheel/tire and even fork options. So they can't really guarantee BB height will be the same on every build.
There is quite a bit of wheel clearance. There is a 29r option, I think. Pike is only option on this version. I upgraded the air shaft to increase travel to 160. I find riding locked out on technical climbs reduced pedal strikes a bit.🔥🔥✌️🤙
I've heard that one of the big ways they're able to sell these bikes for so little is that they just buy rights for pennies on the dollar to old designs from big names that they've stopped making for long enough they're not worried about losing sales of newer stuff. So they don't spend anything on R&D and are using proven designs that are probably 3-5 years behind the most current trends but being built by the same folks that built them for whatever big-name brand they originally built them for.
I really appreciate the video, feedback from folks that have lived with one of these bikes for a while is scarce.
I have a 2017 Hal 6 Team. I love the bike, but the Novatech wheel Hubs suck. After about 3 months rear hub was skipping occasionally. So I would definitely plan on at least upgrading the rear wheel within the first year. I bought a new rear wheel with a DT Swiss 350 rear hub from Colorado Cyclist for about $320. Much needed upgrade. I wouldn't hesitate to buy any of the new Hal 6 bikes from Bikes Direct. Just factor in cost of new wheelset when shopping bikes. All the other hardware has been solid with no issues.
I figured everyone upgrades. Doesn't matter if it's 5k or 2k upgrades are fun.
Good 6 month review video. I commented on your unboxing video about having the 2019 29er version. I have the same complaints in hitting the pedals. I've gotten good at locking out the rear shock before a rocky uphill(live in Va. mountains). Just gotta remember to unlock it for the downhills. Took a dive today because I forgot. I thrash the crap out of mine and no issues. Great videos
I'm learning to handle the pedals but as time goes by I may make some of the upgrades. I find it doesn't matter how much you spend, 5k or 2k you always find something to upgrade for your personal taste. Thanks for the comments. 🤙🤙
For $80 my local bike shop will install a thumb switch locker for the rear shock.
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 I was thinking about how to install one as I rode today. Would make it alot nicer. Stay healthy and remember it's about having fun with what you have. Happy biking
BB height will change with tire size(obviously) but tread design and height will also add or take another 3-5mm , Great video for people considering buying bikes direct vs Santa Cruz or any other major brand.
Been looking at Hal 6 super eagle
1600 preorder
Happy with my purchase so far.
by shortening the crankarm you will reduce the play in the rear hub at the expense of leverage torque in the pedal stroke without actually doing anything to the rear hub. I say this because you should start with one approach or the other and not do both simultaneously to see how you like it. Looks like a great little bike.
Had a friend who rode a Motobecane fat bike. Frame broke after two seasons.
Live and ride the trails of the high Rockies in Colorado. 👍
Thanks for reviewing this brand! The bikes direct website looks like it time-warped from the 90's haha so I think a lot of people question how legit their bikes are. Definitely hard to beat Motobecane HAL for value, I would say that Vitus comes close. I'm looking at their Mythique VRX right now, has a nice high bottom bracket to climb over rocks and features :)
7:10 Is it possible that the manufacturers like to measure height from the center of the BB while you are measuring from the bottom of the BB? I would think they would do this to produce better sounding numbers. That's my first thought. The other thoughts are different tires and maybe differing suspension settings to explain the "estimated" part.
So if you're measuring around 320 on most regular MTBs vs slightly over 300 for the eMTB, I think that's fine. Hardcore MTB "purists" aren't purchasing an ebike so for the rest of us non-hardcore, that 20mm will never be noticed. I'm 51 now and definitely don't ride like I used to when I was 22.
Another note, I've been living in Phoenix since 1989 (when I was 18) and I only know MTB riding here, so the pedal-strike issue is simply something I've always had to contend with. I know nothing else. Interesting thoughts that you have on it. Some things I hadn't thought of. I also didn't even know it was called "stutter step", but it makes sense.
Good review, very fair. I'm 6'3" and ran 160mm cranks without any problem. Didn't really notice the difference. Mine was to fit a longer dropper post which helps on those descents that are pretty gnarly, but it did cut down on pedal strikes. A cheap upgrade would be a shorter stem and wider bar. You can keep the reach and do it for under a hundred. If It's anything like HAL E-boost I did a fitting on, its a really narrow bar. Gravity components are house brand for BikesDirect. Your basic Formula entry level hub.
Thanks I'll check on the bars
What size did you ride at 6'3"? I'm trying to figure out of the XL would work for me at 6'5" as a more playful backup trail bike for my Trek Fuel EX8 XXL.
@@Big_Boi23 I was just talking about crank length, not the HAL.
Wow you and i must of brought ours around the same time. I so far love my hal boost, i did upgrade the wheelset right away that rear hubs sucks, upgraded the brakes, wider bars and shorter stem. All well worth the money for a solid bike. Next and final upgrade is 170mm cranks i agree the 175s are too long for a 27.5 bike
I put the 160mm air shaft in the pike. Gonna do the rear wheel and a 32t oval chainring. I also converted to tubeless 🤙🤙
Thanks for the support.
They don't shave corners. They bring partially-assembled bikes direct from factories in Taiwan and China in containers to a warehouse in Texas and then ship them direct to customers. They do very little advertising, don't have the overhead of a normal retail bike shop or even online bike shop, and just ship direct to customers. That's how they do it. There's no secret here - they just cut out the normal overhead, sacrifice a little margin in return for volume, and can't trade on brand cachet. The bikes are not cutting edge, but just fine.
Great review bro! 💯🤙🏻
Nice bike ... I would have a hard time not going for a fuel EX in that price range.
Trek makes a nice affordable bike. It's a coin toss choice. I'm very happy with my purchase.
Great review, thanks for the follow up it helps to know a bike is lasting. After a couple years, how do you feel about the build of the frame? Does the frame have the quality to be built on over the next 10 years? I'm not a jumper, but will do drops, heavy root/rocks, and my extra weight punishes a suspension. I don't need a name brand, just a frame that performs well, will last, and be a ton of fun to ride. Thx
You absolutely NAILED it why I went with Bikesdirect when you explained the niche they fill and why I bought this bike. I wanted a well spec'd bike for my kids 1st really decent bike. I tried to shop the LBS, and I spent hrs online finding cool bikes that were totally unavailable. I was done dedicating time to the hunt and the research. I'm just a casual enthusiast. I have (many) other hobbies besides MTB.
LBS store inventories have been miserable and choices have been non-existent. This deal was there, although it was a pre-order that came 45 days late on top of that. But if you only want to drop $2500 or less, I could not find any bikes with comparable shocks & Eagle GX components. And I'll add this, that satin black finish on black gloss accents looks strikingly cool. What it looks like wasn't a priority and we were pleasantly surprised how cool it looks.
Geez, now you got me going on this bike...lol... are these threw axle’s on this bike?
Yes🤙. Thanks for the sub. I love mine.
I agree ..... I've had a Taz3 3" tires with the Deore package for a couple of weeks now and like it no regrets. It was $1100 + 100 tax to the door ... Cost?????? they have very little overhead , you put some of it together yourself no store front . I think if they would keep the name Motobecane off the bike they would sell more, but makes no difference to me. The only problem is if you want one they have none in stock......they will presale you one now pay for it and send it to you in December. I paid for mine and waited over a month or so
Thanks for this great video. I purchased the same bike (27.5+). Your video had alot to do with it. Thanks for putting this great video together. I did not take seriously enough your comment about bottom bracket ground clearance. If I had to do it again I would have bought the 29" wheels. Did you ever try the shorter 165mm cranks? What did you do about the excessive engagement slop in the rear hub? I looked at changing out the damper tube on the rear shock from 190mm to 200mm to get more bottom bracket clearance but after taking the shock off realized that 200mm eye to eye dimension would not fit within the frame. 190mm eye to eye is is the longest shock you can use. Running the rear shock at 20% sag helped with ground strikes however it makes the rear shock stiffer than I would like. I have basically come to the conclusion that I will get new wheels (29") with a better rear hub eventually. Still love the bike. Just made the wrong choice on the wheel size I think.
I have stuck with the 27.5 . I've learned to deal with the bb height. I still may get the 165mm cranks though. Going to 29" with 2.4-5" tires would solve the issue totally.
Good luck 🤙. Thanks for the view and comments. BTW I still love the bike for the price.
Weedend Mountain Biker: Yes I love the bike for the price as well. I am going to ride it until Christmas. I may adapt as well. 29" wheels with a better rear hub may be my Christmas present this year. Again, thanks for the review. I have six months to sell it to my wife 😊.
nice review. i've been mt biking for a few years now, but not as often as i want to. tackling some steep terrain can be brutal, so i'm looking to get an eMt bike. is the boost level easy to adjust on the fly? how long does the fully charge battery last?
Sorry my friend, the "Boost" refers to the geometry. You get no help pedaling this bike, all legs and heart. I do believe that they offer an ebike though. Bikesdirect.com
I’ve looked at ordering one of these bikes but I’m also looking at the Fezzari Abajo peak. It’s also a direct to consumer brand. I can’t decide
I was torn as well. Fezzari you can finance. But the components on the Boost did it for me. I don't think you can go wrong either way. Just get one and get out there riding. Get a good helmet a sub my channel.🤙🤙🤜🤛
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 I don't know if it is a new feature but you can interest free finance for 6 months with paypal on bikesdirect.com
@@patlilburn7432 I didn't know that 👍. Thanks.
Nice but we gotta go for a ride. Come join me north where it's not to warm. I'm about to do a review on my canyon strive. 🤟🤟
Would love to. How long before you think you actually film the review. Is this a long term review? If the timing works, wee could do a trail and I can get some action shots of you and the bike. What's your favorite local ride?
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 basically it's a 6 month review like yours. Then eventually a long term review. Ya man let's plan it out this week. This weekend if not we can do it the next weekend. I want to explore some of my local trails
@@RydenDirty it's possible this weekend but if not definitely by next weekend. I'll try to confirm by Wednesday morning 👍
I have the same bike, but the large 29er, and I love it! It's not for bike snobs, but I just want to ride - not a show bike! Thought I probably wouldn't take it to Whistler.
I'd love to see it in action at Whistler 🤙🤙
Add up what you'd pay MSRP for all of the components. Does it happen to be almost exactly what bikesdirect asks for the bike (90% assembled and shipped to your door)? Buy it! How can you go wrong? ;)
I've been banging mine up for close to a year now on diamond to double diamond trails and I'm hanging with bikes that cost three times as much with no problems... Squeaky bb. Fixed that though.✌️🤙👍
Thanks for the review...what's the price of the bike? Maybe I missed it in the vid.
Mine was $2k. I've done about $250 in upgrades over the last 8 months 🤙
Would you mind measuring the effective top tube length: from the center of the seatpost at the height to ride it to the center of the handlebar?
Remember this is medium.
Center of the seat post to center of the stem is 22"
Center of the seat post to the center of the handle bars 25.25"(70mm stem, I would not go any longer on the stem though, 70mm is Max length for snappy handling)
Seat post measured at riding height
I just ordered the HAL Boost pro S12 29er (shimano SLX drivetrain) with the dt swiss x1900 wheels and 370 hub. Im curious to know was this on your shopping list as well since pricing is identical to the HAL Boost Pro eagle with the WTB wheels and i assume the generic hubs you mentioned?
I got the "eagle". But really there is no different between the two, to speak of. You'll want your local bike shop to tune the derailleur and do a good brake bleed. I bleed my brakes for the first time myself and they work much better now. Must have been some air in the system.
Thanks for the comments 👍
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 have you weighed this bike? curious to know if their 30lb listed weight was accurate
@@bryanh9288 I believe it is very close to accurate. My brother has an "S" package santa cruz Hightower carbon and mine is lighter 🤙🤙.
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 thanks. I have one more question for you,. Fortunately i am a similar height with similar inseam 5'10" 32" inseam, do you feel the cockpit too cramped on a medium with the factory 70mm stem? or maybe the cockpit is too far of a reach and the stem needs to be shortened? Just going by photos the reach seems short, but based on measurements it seems to be reasonable when compared to other bikes.
@@bryanh9288 I think the reason it feels okay is because of the 70 millimeter stem. I prefer 30-50mm but since this is a medium 70 is good. I also slid my seat back in the rails as far back as is recommended by the measurements on the rails.
Hi Ryan. I'm also interested in the bike and live in the Phoenix area. I'm around your height and was wondering if I should get a medium. Hoping I could meet up with you and have a closer look at your bike when you ride next time. Let me know if that would work with you. Great video.
Email me at weekendmountainbiker@gmail.com
Good info man. I’m planning to purchase the Hal Boost with AXS technology. It runs $2,600. Any thoughts on this bike, the components seem to be pretty stellar at such a low price point. When I look at Trek or Specialized with comparable components they are in the $7,000+ range. This deep seems too good to be true
It is a great bike Armando. They save money in some areas like the wheels, bottom bracket and head set, handle bars, grips, pedals. The fundamentals of the bike are great though. Enjoy. Thanks for the comments and checking out my video 🤙
I bought the Hal Boost S12 thats slightly cheaper at $2000 with Shimano SLX components and XT rear mech.
It really rides like a bike that is too good too be true but I love it so much. The only things I'll upgrade over some time is the dropper lever, handlebar, and stem.
@@jkd_exe congrats man. 🤙 Thanks for the comments.
@@jkd_exe Do you have a video or pictures of the bike? I'm actually looking to buy the same model and prefer the SLX/XT build would like to hear from someone who has the bike. Thanks in advance. IG username Alex__AP1 in case you want to get to me.
Is it at threaded bottom bracket and what size is it I need 68mm 73mm Threaded bottom bracket
thanks for sharing
Did you replace your dropper post lever?
No sir. It has been working flawlessly.
Great review! Been looking at this bike and I’m in between sizes and I was wondering if anyone else is in my situation and you Summed it up for me thank you!
Love your Bike too, may get one, but I have to say The Giant Trance 3 at 2100 dollars , for what you get any day of the week, is darn close...
Yes it is, but try to find one. None to be had....unless you have a secrete you could share. I just sold my Talon 3, it was my first bike. I also have a Vitus Mythique, but I want that Trance really bad.
@@mcduffrobert , I agree, the virus, cause huge shortage of all bikes. And this time of year tough too because your in between model years, few months 2021 models will out, everyone is low now including bikes direct, most you are waiting until Sept
I bought my Hal 5 last year...so far I've enjoyed it. Definitely notice the clearance running into issues with climbing once in a great while.
One thing I realized is that climbing locked out keeps the suspension high and I have less pedal strikes at least while climbing tech. Thanks for the comment.
Hi, now that you have the bike, how accurate is the geometry chart posted on bikesdirect to the real thing? Cause I have read many people claiming the geometry chart they provide is off.
It is a bit off. If you want any specific measurements let me know. Inch or mm
I'd like to know if the reach is accurate. For the large its suppose to be 430mm but that seems really close and most small bikes come in around 430ish. I was wanting this bike for a while but after more research and seeing the 430 reach, I've backed off from it. That and the really narrow wheels.
@@neighbordave5691 Hi David, thanks for checking out my video. So I measured from the center of my handlebars (with the supplied stem of 70mm) to the center of my seat post in the raised position, which is basically the same height as the center of the handlebars, the distance is 26" or 660mm. This is the medium size frame.
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 Try measuring a horizontal line from the tip of the seat post to the middle of the headset, as that is what a reach actually is and can help us compare apples to apples!
@@Big_Boi23 center of the extended dropper post to center of the head set is 23" on the medium size frame
Great video!!
What size is this bike, and what are your stats (height/weight/etc.)? I'm 6'5" and wondering if the XL would work for me as a smaller/more playful trail bike (already have a 2020 Trek Fuel EX8 XXL, which is a tank and I need a backup bike). Also, can this bike fit 2.6" wide 29er wheels?
The bike I got is medium but I moved the seat back and kept the 70 mm stem. If I were you I would definitely go xl. I think it would take 2.6 29's but if you want playful maybe stay with 27.5 2.6". Thanks for checking out the video.
I'm 5'10.75" 195lb 32"inseam. Could have gone lg but went medium for more playful feel.
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 Thanks for the response! I have a bike with 27.5+ and a bike with 29ers. Pros and cons to both sizes! 29ers are goats up hills and are good at covering a lot of distance. 27.5+ is more playful but are tiny on a big frame!
What’s the exact model on this the bb height spec on the model im looking at says 330
HAL BOOST PRO S12
They have changed some things though.
I found that the bb height is closer to 300.
After measuring a Hightower and SB130, there stated bb heights were off also. They were a little bit lower in reality than the specs claimed.
Weekend Mountain Biker they all out of stock now but I was looking at the s12 29er
@@patrickelisha4240 seems the 29r solves the bb issue.
Weekend Mountain Biker thank you, do you know how often they stock back up
@@patrickelisha4240 I do not. I ordered a hardtail from them and it took about 8 weeks to get 😢
Thanks for the review! The link looks a little weak to me for reason. Do you notice flexing in the back end? I think you’re right about that niche market but I think direct to consumer companies are on to that.
I think more flex comes out of the wheel.
Is your bike 27.5 or 29er?
27.5 / 2.6"
qualify or clarify???
just joking,,,great job!!!
RIDE ON!!!
I thought these bike were $4200?
$2000-$2500. This is why it's a great value
I got the HAL 5.5 recon, goes for $1799. this is an awesome bike. my first fs bike, so not much to compare against. this MFer FLOATS THOUGH
Adam I’m looking at the Hal 5.5 as well. What bikes are you coming from ? I have a hello Dave , inbreed hard tails . And wanted a full to add into the stable
@@hatrix11 I would def suggest the HAL 5.5 to anyone. great beginners or intermediate FS bike. I previously rode an old Trek 4300 and 4900 hardtail. to ride real trails I had to outfit my 4300 with a hydraulic disk front brake. this is an awesome bike for a great deal.
@@atomicdemise the geo is pretty modern for motobecane with the 5.5
I ride pretty aggressive hard tails on mostly reds but getting up there in age and want to get back on a fs how’s the recon fork holding up ? Ty
@@hatrix11 oh yeah, it's holding up. I got the Hal recon in august and have risen it on pretty aggressive trails probably 3 or 4 days a week since getting it set up. the fork is fantastic for the $$, and I love the single valve with the +/- chambers. it makes self-maintenance a much easier hassle. also, I wasn't completely honest- i actually ordered the Hal 5.5 recon on a preorder special so it was only 1399$ but I had to wait 4+ months for it. still worth saving 500$🤑
@@atomicdemise thanks for your replies
I’m killing you with all the questions
Are you doing drops on the Hal ?
I like the geo on the Hal 5.5 rather than the Hal boost
Also I can get it with wireless axs group set for $1600
2020 Motobecane HAL eBoost PRO this is what u shud of bought #eMTBLife
I enjoy the punishment of the climb. Speaking for myself, I don't deserve the down if I can make the climb 🤙🤙👍
I have ridden ebikes and they are fun👌
That’s the beauty of #eMTBs, u can decide what kind of workout u want by adjusting the assist level, if I want to put in the work u can but I’m the guy who loves covering more terrain! It’s all your choice buddy
@@weekendmountainbiker9457 Flawed logic, you can get more downs in the same amount of time from e-climbs! I'm not on an E yet, but one will be added to my stable after they have been around longer...
@@modsquad8u true statement. I have been passed many times going up a hill by somebody on an E😔
I'm between a used Specialized Stump Jumper and a used one of these. Any recommendations or advice? I can get one for $1,600 does that sound like a decent deal?
Does the Motobecane have any upgrades? What's the components on the stump jumper ( forks, derailleur)?