GT Fury Expert Review
- Price: $4350
- Category: Full Shock Speed Bikes
- Wheels: 27.5 x 2.35″
- Power system: 1×10
What we like about it: The excellent experience on the descent, wide tires for a smooth ride, high-end components make it excellent in performance, and the right geometry gives you a more comfortable riding position.
What we don’t like about it: Too few paint color options and the need to equip yourself with pedals.
Rating (4.6/5)
Since its inception, GT Bicycles has prided itself on making bikes for all types of riders and has remained true to that mission. This GT Fury Expert, a full shock speed bike, is one of the best.
The handsome exterior design makes people fall in love with it at a glance. The application of high-end components makes it even better in performance. There is also an excellent geometry design for a comfortable ride. I can say without exaggeration that this is a full-suspension speed bike designed specifically for off-road.
So let me introduce you to the GT Fury Expert in detail, I will explain its descending, climbing, main features, and main components. If you want to know more about this bike, please follow us.
GT Fury Expert Descending
As a full-suspension speed bike, I was looking forward to how it would perform on the descent.
For this test, we made a special trip to Killington Bike Park. There is enough terrain to satisfy the GT Fury Expert’s testing needs.
We chose a difficult trail, but it did not disappoint me. I felt an excellent performance when I got on it and leaped down from the top of the hill.
The X-Fusion RV1 fork is the most noteworthy for its excellent damping performance, which allows me to face the exposed roots on the road without any fear. The 200mm travel is long enough to effectively absorb vibrations while driving. Paired with the 190mm travel X-Fusion Vector Coil R rear shock, I was able to move quickly through the woods.
Of course, this was not without the help of the Schwalbe Magic Mary tires. 27.5 x 2.35 inches made them have enough grip for a smooth descent when driving on this surface.
On both sides of my ride, dense with tall trees and steep hills, the slightest carelessness would cause me to fall. That’s when I had to mention its TRP Slate T4 hydraulic disc brakes. The powerful braking performance allows me to stop quickly in case of an emergency. This is also the reason why I dare to make a descent at a faster speed.
GT Fury Expert Climbing
In addition to the excellent performance of the GT Fury Expert in speed climbing, it did not disappoint me in climbing as well.
When I first sat on this bike, I felt how comfortable it was. In addition, the carbon frame design makes it light enough in weight to make my ride easier.
And the 1×10 drivetrain gives it more than enough options for shifting. Therefore, I was able to cope well when facing different hills. With enough traction from the tires, it makes me save enough effort when climbing.
Of course, perhaps you may ask as a speed bike, will it perform so well on the climbs? I would say, my friend, it certainly can’t compare with those professional climbing bikes. But on some small climbs, it’s not inferior to other off-road bikes. After finishing our bike ride, I easily booked accommodation on IHG Hotels & Resorts. I can finally relax and rest well.
Main Features
Frame Group
One thing I have to admit is that GT Bicycles has always caught the eye of customers when it comes to design. This bike is also very aesthetically pleasing to me.
The most basic thing is the application of a carbon frame. You can fully trust its quality to adequately cope with the impact of the descent when facing off-road terrain, and it is light enough in terms of weight.
In addition, the bike paint with dark blue paint with a white logo design is low-key, and at the same time has a touch of handsome.
And, you can choose whether to install mudguards or not according to your needs. Perhaps, that will affect the overall beauty of the bike, but it can effectively prevent the erosion of your bike by mud and sand.
Geometry
For bikes, great geometry never goes out of style. And this GT Fury Expert’s design in geometry makes me happy.
The first is its slacker head tube angle. The 62.5° head tube angle makes the forked stick out more forward, which provides good speed stability. This is very helpful for fast descents.
Next, there is the 74.9° seat tube angle. The steeper seat tube angle brings more efficient pedaling and makes your ride easier.
On top of that, the less fork rake has added drag, further improving its stability and giving you better control of the body while riding.
Components and Specifications
TRP Slate T4 Brakes
TRP’s products have always been loved by people. The Slate T4 has taken a lot of the advantages of the DH-R EVO brake and improved them, making it a great performer.
It is set up with ergonomic cast aluminum levers for more comfort in use. It also features a new 5mm hose for easier internal routing and better transmission of hydraulic power.
Also, the application of four-piston calipers is to make its braking performance more enhanced, always protecting your riding safety.
Schwalbe Magic Mary Tires
In terms of tire choice, this bike uses Schwalbe Magic Mary tires. As a professional-grade track tire, its performance is unquestionable.
The sturdy shoulder studs and aggressive open tread design allow it to provide maximum braking traction and cornering grip even in extremely muddy terrain. It gives you great stability when facing some rough roads.
And, the ADDIX compound is used in the material to make it softer. This allows you to have more cushioning during the descent, bringing a more comfortable ride.
X-Fusion RV1 Front Fork
As a full-suspension speed bike, the choice of fork is very important. And this X-Fusion RV1 fork performs very well.
First of all, the application of aluminum alloy material gives it a guarantee of quality. Meanwhile, in the choice of dampers, Roughcut HLR has high and low speed, independently adjustable compression, and rebound damping adjustment, which makes it play an important role in riding.
In addition, the 200mm of travel is effective in absorbing the vibration generated downhill, allowing you to have a more comfortable and fast descent ride.
Other versions of GT Fury
Through the above introduction, I’m sure you have a clear understanding of this GT Fury Expert. To give you more choices, I also tested other versions of this bike, I hope it will be helpful for you.
GT Fury Pro
As a full-suspension speed bike in the same series, it does not make changes in geometry design. The same slack head tube angle allows it to bring greater stability in the descent. And, the excellent geometry design allows it to keep you in a comfortable position that is more conducive to your riding.
Of course, this does not mean that it is set in stone, it has upgraded in components.
First of all, in terms of wheel size, 29-inch tires are used. The larger size specification makes it have better passability during the driving process. And, the RockShox BoXXer Select Charger RC 29 fork is used to make you a comfortable ride in the descent. There is also 200mm of travel to effectively absorb the vibration from the road.
Secondly, in terms of gearing and brakes, the SRAM kit is used for more compatibility in use. It is worth mentioning that in terms of shifting options, it is less than Fury Expert’s.
Of course, the more advanced component configuration makes it more expensive as well. If your budget is not that high, then this Fury Expert is also a good choice.
What we like about it
- The application of a carbon frame makes the body light enough.
- Excellent geometric design for a comfortable ride.
- 200mm travel fork, playing an important role in shock absorption.
- Powerful braking performance protects your riding safety.
- Have a faster experience on the drop.
What we don’t like about it
- In terms of color selection, it does not satisfy most people.
- Need to configure your pedals.
FAQS
- What is the front fork of the GT Fury Expert?
The fork of the GT Fury Expert is the X-Fusion RV1.
- What are the tires on the GT Fury Expert?
The tires on the GT Fury Expert are Schwalbe Magic Mary.
- What are the brakes on the GT Fury Expert?
The brakes on the GT Fury Expert are TRP Slate T4.
- GT Fury Expert size chart
| Rider Height (cm) | Rider Height (in) | Frame Size |
| 148cm – 158cm | 4’10” – 5’2″ | XS |
| 158cm – 168cm | 5’2″ – 5’6″ | S |
| 168cm – 178cm | 5’6″ – 5′ 10″ | M |
| 178cm – 185cm | 5’10” – 6’1″ | L |
| 185cm – 193cm | 6’1″ – 6’4″ | XL |
| 193cm – 198cm | 6’4″ – 6’6″ | XXL |
GT Fury Expert Specs
Build
| Frame | Fury Carbon Frame, LTS Downhill Design, 190mm Travel (29″) | 200mm Travel (27.5″), BSA 83mm, 1.5″ Headtube, Boost 12×148 Thru Axle, 225x75mm Trunnion Shock Mount, ISCG05 BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded |
| Fork | X-Fusion RV1, 200mm, 20x110mm thru-axle, adjustable rebound & compression |
| Rear Shock | X-Fusion Vector Coil R, 225×75, Metric Trunnion, w/ Adjustable Rebound |
| Bottom Bracket | Race Face BSA |
| Headset | Integrated FSA sealed bearing |
| Stem | Direct Mount, AL6061-T6 CNC, 35mm Length |
| Handlebar | SPANK Spoon 785, 20mm Rise, 31.8mm Clamp |
| Saddle | Fabric Scoop Shallow Sport, steel rails |
| Seatpost | All Terra 2-bolt, 31.6mm |
| Pedals | Not Included |
| Grips | GT Statement2 Double Lock-on Grips |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Zee Shadow Plus, Direct Mount, 10-speed |
| Crank | Race Face Chester, 165mm, 36T, e-thirteen LG1+ Chainguide |
| Shifters | Shimano Zee, 10-speed |
| Cassette | Sunrace, 11-28, 10-Speed |
| Chain | KMC X10, 10-speed |
| Brakes | TRP Slate T4 hydro disc, 203/203mm rotors |
| Brake Levers | TRP Slate T4 |
Wheels
| Rims | Alex MD-30, Double Wall, 32H |
| Spokes | Stainless Steel, 14g |
| Front Hub | Formula |
| Rear Hub | Formula 12x148mm Boost |
| Tires | Schwalbe Magic Mary, 27.5 x 2.35″, Addix Compound, tubeless ready Schwalbe Magic Mary, 27.5 x 2.35″, Addix Compound, tubeless ready |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| Scott Gambler 920 | $4,699 | 1×7 | Shimano BR-MT520 Hydraulic Disc | 29×2.5″ | Click View |
| CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29 | $4209.23 | 1×7 | Magura MT5 hydraulic disc | 29×2.4″ | Click View |
| Rocky Mountain Slayer Alloy 30 Park (29) | $4,369 | 1×7 | SRAM Guide RE hydraulic disc | Front 27.5×2.5″ Rear 27.5×2.4″ | Click View |
| Commencal FRS ESSENTIAL | $4,600 | 1×7 | TRP DH-R EVO hydraulic disc | Front 27.5 x 2.4″ Rear 27.5 x 2.4″ | Click View |
GT Fury Expert vs Scott Gambler 920
If you ride a lot, you know the advantages of a carbon frame. The two bikes differ in the frame material used.
The GT Fury Expert is made of carbon, while the Scott Gambler 920 is made of aluminum. While both are guaranteed in terms of quality, they are a bit heavier in terms of weight. As a result, the difference between the two bikes can be felt in the actual ride. There is no doubt that the GT Fury Expert will give you a more relaxed riding experience.
If you’re serious about weight and are a carbon enthusiast like me, then this GT Fury Expert might be a good choice.
GT Fury Expert VS CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29
This CUBE TWO15 HPC SLX 29 has a great performance in the mountain cross country. Because the application of the same carbon frame allows it to handle tougher terrain. Moreover, the 203mm fork travel can fully absorb the vibration generated while riding, so you can have a better experience when descending.
Of course, the GT Fury Expert is no less impressive in speed running. It is mainly the application of the X-Fusion RV1 fork with X-Fusion Vector Coil R rear shock that gives it the same excellent performance in terms of shock absorption effect. Because I was able to feel its shock effect clearly and distinctly in the rider.
In addition, there are more gearing options in the transmission. 1×10 transmission system allows it to cope with more different terrains, giving you a different experience in speed.
GT Fury Expert vs Rocky Mountain Slayer Alloy 30 Park (29)
I have to say that Rocky Mountain is looking out for its customers. In terms of tire size, there are 29 inches available in addition to 27.5 inches. This meets the needs of different riders very well.
But I have to say that it didn’t give me as good a feeling on the actual ride, perhaps because the damping performance is not as good as the GT Fury Expert. indeed, the 170mm travel rear shock is still slightly inadequate when facing some rough mountain roads. On the contrary, the 190mm travel of the Fury Expert can cope with it very well and bring a better damping effect.
In addition, the GT Fury Expert gives me a very comfortable experience in terms of seatpost and saddle selection. To be honest, I enjoy the feeling it gives me.
Learn more : Is Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 A Good Choice? -[Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 Review]
GT Fury Expert VS Commencal FRS ESSENTIAL
As a full-suspension speed bike, the Commencal FRS ESSENTIAL9 is more radical in its geometry.
The first is the longer forward reach. This will make you need to bend more when riding and will allow you to have a better speed experience on the ride.
And it has a slacker seat tube angle, which also means you have a more rearward-facing saddle. The aggressive geometry gives you excellent pedaling efficiency on the bike, but long rides can be strenuous.
It also has a relatively steeper head tube angle. This makes it more agile in steering, but it also results in less stability in descents than the GT Fury Expert.
If you like relatively conservative geometry, then you can try this GT Fury Expert, it definitely will not disappoint you.
