This is my new Mountain Bike (Brand-Haro, Model-Shift R1) - 2009 release. Its a full suspension XC bike. I used it in my maiden ride up Kek Lok Si (1200 steps). For the price I paid (RM2,600) I can say it's worth it. Why I said so? It offers a smooth ride uphill with its 8 speed Shimano (Alivio) gear and it has better efficiency in terms of pedaling (as compare to what i have previously-Polygon normal MTB). It also offers Tektro IO disc brake which is not so efficient (according to my friend, once the disc brake pad starts to exercise it will improve). It comes with front fork suspension that offers 120mm travel and back suspension with 4.5" travel. Its great when going down hill. Originally it comes with a small pedal. I had to upgrade to a bigger one with additional RM150 (picture as below).
There are few downsides to this bike (besides small pedal and disc brake). The paint on the handle bar came off easily (as seen in the pictures below).
Also, I had my bike on the bike rack (behind my car). Can be seen in the pictures below the paint works easily came off (sigh)
This is the logo on the front of the bike.
The one that I got is a size 16"
Conclusion, its a good recommendation for beginners that wants to feel the adventure to bike off road. I think the new release of Shift R1 (2011) has a better color and hopefully they improve on the paint work.
