A Professional Review of the Gary Fisher Fat Possum Mountain Bike

When the name Gary Fisher is spoken among mountain bike enthusiasts, the first image to pop into mind are generally cross country oriented (whether it is the man or the bicycle line that is being discussed). That is because until recently, the bike brand was known primarily for its XC models, which earned a reputation for quality the honest way: on the racetrack. The times they're a changing; we demoed Fisher's take on the All Mountain scene with a dual suspension beast oddly named the Fat Possum.

While the name may suggest an overweight, slow moving, nocturnal, North American marsupial, we are pleased to report that the bicycle is actually quite lean and nimble.

What's it for?

All Mountain riding; meaning trails, flats, descents, and small to medium drops.

What about the specs?

We elected to test the middle of the road $2600 Fat Possum XT (as opposed to the $4000 XO and $2200 LX model respectively) in 17.5 inch medium frame size. The ZR9000 externally butted aluminum frame connected via single pivot to a 6061 T6 aluminum swingarm. Up front a RockShox Pike 409 (150 mm) Dual Air fork handled squish duties while a Manitou Split RPA air shock with external Platform Plus damping and rebound settings took care of the rear. Stopping service provided by Hayes in the form of the HFX-9 hydraulic disc group front and rear with 6" rotors. Rounding out the package were Shimano's XT derailleurs, SRAM's PG970 9 speed cassette, Bontrager wheels, cranks, and Big Earl tires. Shimano M520 ATB clipless pedals. Bontrager riser bar and grips.

How Does It Ride?

Don't be pushy; the Fat Possum's unique experience begins even before the ride itself does. Weighing in at just under 33 lbs with beefed up frame spars, the bike is actually deceptively light and airy once you straddle the main tube. A longer top tube places the rider over the rear tire a bit more effectively than most All Mountain while a fairly high bottom bracket ensures that there is no mistaking the FP for a dedicated cross country mount.