Customer Review: Bang For The Buck!!
Sure this bike probably can't compare to the more expensive bikes you get at the local bike store...HOWEVER, if your main use for this bike is commute, or the only surfaces you bike are on paved bike paths, trails with no more than 1-foot drops, then this bike will do the job to satisfaction. I am only getting into biking after many years of driving cars, so I'm still not 100% sure if I'm going to fall in love with this sport. Once I decide that I am really into this sport, and start going into the woods or mountains where I'll be taking 5-foot drops, I will definitely get a $1000+ bike. But I digress. This bike feels very solid, and so far I have had no mechanical problems whatsoever and I ride it about 45 miles a week on the street and bumpy trails. Luckily, one of my engineering design projects in school have been on human-powered vehicles, giving me a chance to learn about the mechanics of bicycle components; so I am decent at tuning bikes, so that may attribute to why my bikes have had no problems like a loose handle bar. Don't let the snobby mountain bikers, who worships their local bike shops and only buy $2000 bikes, steer you away from buying this bike. Use this bike to decide whether or not you really enjoy this sport, in the end you'll be much happier!
Customer Review: Good overall Bike
I decided to review this bike since I saw little to no reviews for it. I got this bike a few days ago, and so far I am very pleased. Easy assembly, due to the fact that it comes partly assembled. If you are not too apt for putting things together, this may be a problem. When I first rode the bike, it was a great ride. For me, it was smooth and easy all the way through. I read somewhere that this bike is heavy, and I will have to admit that it is pretty heavy. It's not something that should stop you from buying it, unless you have a problem lifting it when necessary.
I guess the only problems (if you want to call them that) with this bike are the sounds it makes. The suspension makes a creaking sound, doesn't bother me at all. Also, the breaks make a sound when I use them but I am sure I can fix that.
So overall, this is a good bike, and I recommend it to anyone who is interested. I do not think you will be disappointed.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Mongoose Maneuver 26" Men's Full-Suspension Mountain Bike
Tony Hawk Boom Boom Huckjam 20-Inch BMX Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: 20-inch deluxe freestyle, aluminum
- Fork: HuckJam Series, steel with logo
- Saddle: HuckJam Series, 215mm x 143mm
- Handlebar: HuckJam Series, steel, W: 660mm
- Stem: HuckJam Series, alloy, Ext. 50mm
- Rims: Alloy, double wall 20 x 1.75 inches, 48H
- Hubs: Steel (front); steel with 16T freewheel (rear)
- Tires: Deluxe BMX street tread 20 x 1.95 inches
- Spokes: 14G Steel (front and rear)
- Pedals: HuckJam Series laser engraved, alloy platform w/steel spindle, cap end with logo, 110 x 110mm
- Grips: HuckJam Series, BMX molded; 135mm length with 51mm flange
- Brake: F&R: Promax U980, alloy U-Brake
- Brake Lever: Promax FS-328, melt forged alloy bracket & lever w/logo
- Crank: Steel 3-pc w/HuckJam Series logo
- Sprocket: Steel, 44T
- Seatpost: HuckJam Series, Steel w/logo (10-inch length)
- Seatpost clamp: HuckJam Series, Promax MX-28 alloy w/logo
 |  |
Customer Review: Pretty fun bike for an older guy
I've always wanted a BMX bike as a kid, but we were never able to afford one. Now that I'm too old for one, I decided to get one anyway for my short commute to campus. I ended up getting the Tony Hawk Boom Boom Huckjam 20-inch Silver BMX bike at KMart for $149.99. I have seen it on sale at KMart for $134.99. (On a side note, KMart has by far the worst customer service ever.) Here's a short review of the bike after riding it for about a month.
The bike is a series of BMX and mountain bikes released under the Tony Hawk Huckjam name, although its not listed on the current list of bikes on the website. These bikes are built and distributed by Dynacraft. Since I bought this "as is" from KMart, I did not have to go through the assembly process. There are front and rear hand brakes and no coaster brakes (good). There were two main the reasons I wanted to get a BMX bike. One, they are usually much lighter than mountain bikes. This bike, although lighter than mountain bikes, is still heavier than typical BMX bikes. Even the included and removable four freestyle pegs are pretty heavy. According to Amazon, the shipping weight of the bike is 43.2 lbs, which makes the bike roughly 38 lbs or so. I had wanted a bike under 30 lbs. The second reason is my height. I am 58 and I feel most comfortable on a bike when my feet are flat on the ground while I'm seated on the bike. It's also safer when I can plant my feet quickly during quick stops and what not. A 20 BMX bike fits the bill. However, I had to raise the seat to its maximum height.
I am using this bike purely for transportation and fun, and not for exercise, so I didn't want to spend too much money on it. I had wanted a bike closer to $100 bucks, but it was definitely difficult to find one I liked at that price. All the Mongoose ones that were priced cheaply were either of poor quality or too heavy. After searching for a while at Walmart, Target, Sports Authority, Dick's, Modell's and KMart, I couldn't stand it anymore and settled on this one. I was surprised that Amazon didn't sell that many BMX bikes. They had a silver Mongoose freestyle bike for $150 that I liked.
I also wanted a dull inconspicous color since I did not want to draw attention to myself. The silver on this bike is more of a multi-silver, with different shinyness. I plan to sandpaper and spray paint the bike with a clear matte to dull the color.
BMX bikes contain one gear. The gear on this one is roughly gear 5 on a 10-speed bike. It makes uphills difficult but doable for short distances less than 1/4 mile. Another advantage to one gear bikes is that the gears don't jut out to the right of the bike too far. This allows you to wear long pants and jeans without worrying about it catching on the gears. This bike also comes with a plastic gear protector anyways.
Overall, I am pretty happy with this bike. It seems pretty well built. Although there appears to be a paint chip inside one of the aluminum bars, that makes a sliding noise when I have it stored in my car. While I ride the bike, there is no sound. The seat of the bike is also pretty comfy. I remember riding BMX bikes as a kid and they seemed hard, narrow and uncomfortable.
I am sure I would've been happy with a Mongoose at this price also. But I got this one and I'm happy with it.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Planet Bike Women's Comfort Classic Bicycle Saddle
Customer Review: comfortable and priced right
This seat is much more comfortable than the one it replaced. I find a lot of seat designs unattractive and cheesy sporty, not my style at all. This seat is just black, the logo rubs off easy, and it's not too big.
Customer Review: Good, basic, women-specific saddle
This is a nice, comfortable, no-frills saddle for replacing the hard-as-a-rock and/or shaped-for-men saddles that come on many lower-end bikes. And the "classic" shape is great for those of us looking for a "normal" saddle for a commuter bike, not one of the everpopular fat cruiser saddles or those exotic saddles with holes in them. The vinyl cover is great in case it gets rained on. Only gave it 4 stars because on one of my bikes I've got a Serfas saddle that cost about $8 more and is more comfortable. However, my Serfas saddle has a nylon cover so I have to be really careful about getting that one rained on... overall I think this one's a better deal.
Planet Bike Men's Comfort Classic Bicycle Saddle
Customer Review: Seasoned Citizen Bike Rider
Nice Classic Bicycle Saddle - Good Comfort, Easy to install w/small adjustable wrench, & delivered via UPS Ground seven calendar days from order date. Good value for the price.
Michelin C4 Airstop MTB/Comfort Bike Tube - 26x1.5/2.2
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
2WheelBikes Maui Beach Bike Cruiser 26 (female)
Monday, December 22, 2008
Planet Bike Full Hybrid/Road Front and Rear Bicycle Fender Set (45mm Wide)
About Planet Bike
In November of 1996, Planet Bike was founded in Madison, Wisconsin. In many ways, Planet Bike began as a social experiment that dedicated itself to doing business in a different way. Instead of being just another company that develops and sells products with profit as its end goal, Planet Bike wanted to help bring about positive change for people, their communities, and the environment.
Despite being a simple machine, the people at Planet Bike have always believed that the bicycle has great potential to help improve the world and the lives of the people in it. From the start, they have embraced an alternative corporate purpose which seeks to help get more people on bicycles by making communities friendlier places for the self-propelled. By donating 25% of company profits to causes that promote and facilitate bicycle usage, Planet Bike hopes to make an impact.
Social experiments aside, Planet Bike was born from the heart of a cyclist with a goal of making innovative, high quality, and practical bicycle accessories. Simply put, they strive to design and develop the best bicycle products in the world. In the company's short ten year history, they have made important product innovations within the bicycle industry. Advancements include the 4-line computer which is now a standard in the industry and the world's first self-contained HID light. Not bad for a company that ten years ago started as a one man operation. Today, while still a small company, Planet Bike continues to evolve and improve their product line with the goal of always striving to build accessories that make it easier for people to ride their bikes. Since 1996, Planet Bike's financial support of the grassroots bicycle movement has totaled $500,000. By 2010, they have made a goal to donate $1 million to organizations that are dedicated to making America a friendlier place for cyclists.
Customer Review: Five stars for quality, but the product information provided by Amazon was lacking an essential detail
I bought these for my brother in Hawaii, who provided details of his bike and wheel and tire size. In a nutshell, his tires are 40cm wide, so I figured 45cm wide fenders should be fine and the descripton notes they're made to fit hybrid bikes--which is what my brother has. When he looked at the description, he was thrilled thinking I had gotten exactly the right ones and in the right size--but I hadn't.
Turns out they're compatible with up to 35cm wide tires, so the tires would actually rub the fenders if my brother installed them.
On the upside though, these are gorgeous fenders. I'm an avid cyclist and saw these on a bike locked up on a New York City street, and was very impressed by the look, materials, and quality construction. My brother said that, had they fit, they would be easy to install.
Especially if you live in an area where they use road salt and sand in the wintertime, you want fenders like these which will not only hold up to punishment and look good doing it, but not rust, warp, or dent. These really fit the bill--if only they actually fit the hybrid size bike tires as described.
Oh well, now for the exchange.
Michelin Pro 3 Race Road Bike Tires - 700x23mm
Product Features
- Material: Rubber, Silica Energy
- Size: 700 x 23
- Type: Clincher
- Bead:
- Foldable:
- Weight: 190g
- Recommended Use: Cobbled races, gravelly roads
- Manufacturer Warranty:
GMC Denali Boy's 24-Inch Road Bike
Hill climbing is made easier thanks to the sturdy crank set and trusty Shimano TZ40 derailleurs, which round out the drive train, while the Shimano Revo 21- speed twist shifters provide precise, hassle-free shifts. Other details include a lightweight 36-spoke wheel set with V-profile rims, Kenda tires with color accent trims, and a lifetime warranty on the frame and fork.
Customer Review: Great Bike for the Price
For the price you can't beat this. A good sturdy bike, and it rides well. My only complaint is that I had to take it to get adjustments before I could ride it, which was an extra cost.
Customer Review: great value
The bike was easy to put together and rides extremely well. My 12 year old son loves it.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Schwinn Ridge AL Men's Mountain Bike
About Schwinn
Founded in 1895, Schwinn is an American icon that has been synonymous with quality and innovation. They have built some of the best-known and best loved bikes of numerous generations--Aerocycle, Paramount, Phantom, Varsity, Sting-Ray, Krate and Homegrown. Today, Schwinn continues to be a leader in the industry with innovative bikes such as the new Sting-Ray, Rocket mountain bikes, and Fastback road bikes. With a continued dedication to quality, forever synonymous with the Schwinn name, America's most famous bicycle brand looks forward to providing another century of innovation, freedom and performance to people of all ages.
Amazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide
Finding the Right Bike
To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:
The Right Ride
In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:
- Road and Racing Bikes--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels, and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain.
- Mountain Bikes--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing, and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine.
- Comfort/Cruiser Bikes--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family.
The Right Price
A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.
- Entry-level--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use.
- Mid-range--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension.
- High-end--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultralightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action.
The Right Size
Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:
- Stand-over Height--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height.
- Top Tube Length--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half, and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit.
- Bikes for Women--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance.
The Right Accessories
When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:
- Helmet (this is a must!)
- Seat pack
- Lock
- Hydration pack, or water bottle and bottle cage
- Spare tubes
- Portable bike pump
- Gloves
Customer Review: VERY misleading product information...
Pros: Well, it IS a bike (thus two stars rather than one). It has two wheels, pedals, handlebars, and something to sit on. I have no doubt that an individual could ride it - eventually. Then again...
Cons: I will begin with the obvious. This bike does not - I repeat, DOES NOT - come equipped with SRAM MRX Pro twist shifters, as is CLEARLY stated in the item description. In fact, the bike I received was equipped with VERY cheap Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters. This is important because my decision to invest in this bike was based upon two factors: it is relatively inexpensive as compared to other front-suspension 26" men's mountain bikes; and it was supposed to be equipped with twist shifters. My intent is to use this bike for commuting during the winter in upstate NY. As you might guess, it gets VERY cold here, and I will require fairly heavy mittens to avoid frostbite. Trigger shifters don't work so well with heavy mittens.
Now on to the rest...
The first indication of the low quality of this bike is the rear skewer. It does NOT have a quick release skewer on the real wheel, an immediate and obvious indication of low quality in a bicycle.
The rear tire is factory mounted on the rim backwards - meaning that the deep lug off-road treads are facing in the incorrect direction for maximum traction.
The handlebars seem to be of a non-standard diameter over much of their length. The only 'standard' is where they are clamped into the stem. There is a section of about two inches width in the direct center of the bars that is a standard 25.4mm diameter so that they can be clamped in place. This section tapers to a smaller diameter on each side of the center section; however, the tapers are not spaced equally on each side. The overall effect of this is that (1) if you intend to attach an accessory item, such as a light, bell, or other safety equipment, the standard sized clamp that is supplied with your accessory will NOT fit correctly on these handlebars; and (2) any item, such as the mounting bracket for my Topeak Tour Guide handlebar bag, that is supposed to be mounted and CENTERED on the front of the handlebars cannot POSSIBLY be centered because the dissimilar tapers push the mounting clamps to one side or the other of center.
The shifters appear to be plastic junk. Not only that, they appear to be permanently attached to the brake levers rather than separate, so that if you choose to replace the shifters with the SRAMs that were SUPPOSED to come with the bike, you also have to buy replacement brake levers. BTW, the SRAM MRX Pros aren't available in the U.S. - if you want 'em, you have to buy 'em from England!
The saddle is the most uncomfortable piece of trash I've encountered on a bike.
Ditto for the handlebar grips. They're simply horrible.
Additional thoughts: Getting right to the point, this bike is yet another cheaply manufactured made-in-China piece of trash. Basically this is an $80 bike with a $200 price tag because it includes a water bottle and cage, an aluminum frame, and a kick-stand. To be honest, it is quite light - altogether only about twice the weight of one of my loaded panniers. The water bottle is cheap and is simply a waste in the winter of upstate NY; and the cage itself is again very cheaply made and does NOT lock the bottle in - one good bump and the bottle will pop out and be gone. And how well the kick stand (and the aluminum frame it is attached to) hold up has yet to be determined. In general the kick stand will not be used with my panniers attached, since the higher center of gravity will then cause the bike to fall over anyway. Based upon the poor quality I've encountered so far, I doubt this bike will make it through one complete season without a major overhaul of the bottom bracket, rear axle, or front suspension - and more likely all three!
The bottom line: In order to make this bike work for my purposes, and GET THE COMPONENTS that I was SUPPOSED to get on it, I will likely have to spend half as much as the bike cost. If you're looking for a relatively inexpensive beater that is unlikely to attract the attention of thieves due to it's low quality, this is the one for you. If you're looking for a good commuter that will last, keep looking. And don't even THINK of taking this thing off-road - you will undoubtedly end up carrying it home on your back.
Customer Review: Good Bike
Well, so far (now that it's warmed up a bit here in Denver), I am using this as a commuter work bike. So far, no issues at all. Will keep a eye on it as I go, but gear systems seem to work well. Bike was VERY easy to put together. I purchased a hand held tire pump as well, so I will keep a eye on this to see how it performs over the summer.
New World Disorder NWD 9 - Never Enough - Mountain Bike DVD
Pacific Cycle Highlander Boy's 20-Inch Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Customer Review: Solid construction, good quality for the cost.
The instruction manual wasn't very helpful regarding the assembly of the bike. Instead of being specific to this bicycle, it was a generic manual covering all of the company's bicycles. Fortunately, anyone with a little bit of mechanical skill can easily assemble it without needing to dig through the manual. The only trouble I had was adjusting the handbrakes--that's where the manual was confusing. Instead, I looked on YouTube, and found several great videos that showed my exactly how to set up and adjust the brakes.
Customer Review: Happy boy
Great beginer mountain bike for a little boy ,only problem is had to ajust shifter ,but works great now
Saturday, December 20, 2008
NFL Official Team 20-Inch BMX Bike (Multiple Teams)
Customer Review: NFL Bike
This bike is a really great bike. However, the parts came in a box which was damaged and missing at least one nut. Otherwise, the bike rides great for my 8 year old son.
Customer Review: Excellent Customer Service
Product was an excellent buy. The product was shipped ahead of time and recieved well before anticipated delivery date.Well done and very satisfied!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Planet Bike Men's Comfort Web Spring Ultra-Suede Bicycle Saddle with Coil Spring
Mongoose Placid Men's Comfort Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Handcrafted Oversized Alloy Frame
- Fork: Element Alloy Crown Suspension Fork
- Handlebar Stem: Mongoose Riser Bar and Adjusting Stem
- Shifters: 21-Speed Rear Index SRAM 3.0 Shifting
- Derailleurs: 7-Speed SRAM 3.0 Rear Derailleur
- Brakes: Front and Rear Alloy Linear Pull Brakes
- Levers: Alloy Brake Levers
- Crank: Oversized 3-Piece Suntour Alloy Crankset with Chainguard
- Freewheel: Shimano 7-Speed, 14-28T Index
- Rims: 36-Spoke Silver Anodized Alloy Rims
- Hubs: CP 36 Hole Hubs
- Tires: 26 x 1.95 inches Center Line Comfort Tires
This bike comes mostly assembled. Minor assembly is required before the bike can be used.
Amazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide
Finding the Right Bike
To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:
The Right Ride
In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:
- Road and Racing Bikes--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain.
- Mountain Bikes--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine.
- Comfort/Cruiser Bikes--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family.
The Right Price
A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.
- Entry-level--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use.
- Mid-range--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension.
- High-end--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultra-lightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action.
The Right Size
Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:
- Stand-over Height--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height.
- Top Tube Length--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit.
- Bikes for Women--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance.
The Right Accessories
When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:
- Helmet (this is a must!)
- Seat pack
- Lock
- Hydration pack, or water bottles and bottle cages
- Spare tubes
- Portable bike pump
- Gloves
Customer Review: The UnComfort Bike CHINTZY
I had one I rode it for 10 miles. The front rim was not welded wright So when I apply the front brakes it would eat the PADS . I also got a flat tire it was the tube( cheap). I call they where very nice and sent out a replacement so I waited. I also asked them if I could buy two quick release kits for my rims. They make them but since the bike did not come with them they could not sell them! :( They come on there upper scale bikes there is no difference the axes are the same ) I received the rim in less than a week. I was so happy to get the new rim but it was just like the one I had! :( They did send me new brake pads but it would do no good to change anything I was back to square one . For it being a COMFORT BIKE IT WAS THE WORSTED ONE I HAVE EVER RODE :( :( THE FRONT SHOCKS BOTTOM OUT EVERY TIME IT WENT UP IN ANY DRIVEWAY . THE SEAT WAS NOT A COMFORTABLE AT ALL! I EVEN BOUGHT A GEL TOPPER IT REALLY DIDN'T HELP MUCH :(:(:( (Out of 5 wheels It GETS a half a wheel) for being a Mongoose because that's how bad this bike rode! I have over 5,000 miles on my other bikes.SO ON THIS BIKE YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY 4 CHINTZY. {THE Plus is that it goes together very easy!} About a hour:)
Customer Review: Mongoose Placid Men's Comfort Bike
Quite happy with this mountain bike. It's fairly light-weight and has a comfortable ride. Would have preferred to have quick-release hubs but that would have surely increased the purchase price. All around good value for the money. Item arrived even sooner then Amazon estimated. Another positive experience with Amazon.com.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Planet Bike SpeedEZ Road Front and Rear Bicycle Fender Set (Black, 35mm Wide)
Customer Review: In Comparison
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to SKS race blades these are not the ones. Poor design. Too many pieces.
Customer Review: Nice
They look sleek and work really well. I added a few cable ties to add rigidity, works great!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Sheepsking Bike Seat Cover Cruiser Exerciser
Customer Review: Perfect! I made the right choice.
I hemmed and hawed about what seat cover to buy for my bike and I trusted the two reviews on this seat cover because they sounded sincere. They were sincere. I just got it in the mail, put it on, and went for a ride around the block. This seat cover is exactly what I wanted. I have a Schwinn Ultra Comfort saddle for my cruiser and this fit perfectly and it has all the cushion I need and then some. Thanks to the two reviewers for taking the time and now I'm adding my own review to help the next person decide.
Customer Review: Exactly what I was looking for!
The seat cover is perfect! And the vendor exceeded my expectations in the speed of delivery.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Polaris 450MXR 26" Men's Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Customer Review: excellent bargain
Got my new bike today, and It's great! Couldnt have asked for a better bike for the price!
Pacific Cycle Highlander Girl's 20-Inch Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Magna Gemstone 18-Inch Girls Cruiser Bike
The best Cruiser Bike Discount and more lowprice.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Lamborghini Leggenda Comfort Bike
With welcomed features like a lightweight aluminum frame, a versatile 21-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain, and a comfortable upright riding position, the Lamborghini Leggenda comfort bike makes for an ideal bicycle for recreational cyclists. As a comfort bicycle, the Leggenda borrows certain attributes of a road bike--like an efficient 700cc wheel design and a lightweight frame--and combines them with sought after traits typically found in a mountain bike--including an upright, comfortable riding position, and a comfy, wide handlebar. This unique combination of road bike and mountain bike features help create a ride quality with enough efficiency for long distance riding and a comfortable riding position that won't leave you aching for days after a long ride. Other great features include dual water bottle mounts, wide, stable pedals, and an adjustable stem.
About Lamborghini Bicycles
With roots reaching back to 1963, Lamborghini brings a heritage of motor vehicle innovation and dominance to the bicycle industry. Lamborghini offers a line of unique bicycles that remain true to cycling tradition while charging them with the lasting impression of Italian style.
What's in the Box?
Bicycle and owner's manual
Customer Review: Amazon did not publish my previous review...why?
My 11 y.o. kid is absolutely happy with the bike and calls me biking at every opportunity.
Pros: Great looking, nice ride, light.
Cons: Really poor instruction manual, hard to assemble, even for PhD ME, hard ride if you look for comfort, not for trails.
Customer Review: Lamborghini Leggenda Comfort Bike Review
Started looking at comfort bikes for my son at local bike shops and the average price was $400 - $500. We wanted to spend about $300 and found this bike at Amazon for $250. Never bought a bike online before, but it appeared to be a nice looking bike that had all of the features/equipment we were looking for, so we purchased it. Delivery only took a week and when we received it, assembly was required. The assembly was not difficult, just take your time and follow the directions (at least the gears were preset.) The only problem we experienced was a broken spoke in delivery but had a bike shop repair it for a few bucks. My son really likes the bike, he rides it all the time.
Overall, I would say the entire experince was terrific and well worth it.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Huffy Pro Thunder Boys 16-Inch BMX Bike
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Dekra D-Drive Urban Voyager Men's Comfort Bike (26-Inch Wheels)
Dekra D-Drive Chain-Free Technology
The Urban Voyager employs a D-Drive chainless operating system that's designed to provide you with a quiet, efficient ride. Using a Shimano seven-speed Nexus gear hub and Revoshift system, the D-Drive is contained within a sealed rank, shaft rod, and gear housing. What does this mean to the rider? It means you'll never have to deal with stained clothing or greasy hands because of a chain.
Designed for Your Safety
Riding in the city and suburbs can be challenging. Navigating auto traffic, bumpy roads, pedestrians, and anything else that comes along is just part of the ride. The Dekra Urban Voyager overcomes these challenges by offering a variety of important safety features, including RST Capa T8 suspension forks, front and rear alloy V-brakes, double-wall alloy wheel rims, a front headlight, and front and rear reflectors. When it comes to your riding safety, the Dekra Urban Voyager is totally first-class.
Available in mint green metallic paint with brushed aluminum and black accents, the Dekra Urban Voyager is, top to bottom, a classic comfort bike--from its thickly padded seat down to its wide tires. Other details include an integrated speedometer, water bottle mounts, and 26-by-1.75-inch city tread tires.
Specifications:
- Color: Mint green with brushed aluminum and black accents
- Frame: Lightweight aluminum alloy with water bottle mounts
- Wheel size: 26 inches
- Saddle: Dekra signature comfort with sueded fabric cover
- Handlebars: Alloy with adjustable stem
- Fork: RST Capa T8 suspension with 80mm of travel
- Front hub: Shimano Dynamo (6V, 2.4w) with Shimano front headlight and speedometer
- Rear hub: Shimano Nexus Inter 7, 7-speed sealed gear
- Shifters: Shimano Nexus Revoshift 7-speed
- Brakes: Front and rear alloy V-brakes with alloy hand pull levers
- Chain: D-Drive chainless operating system
- Rims: 26-by-1.5-inch double-wall alloy
- Seat post: Alloy with quick-release lever adjustment
- Rack: Rear carrier with Dekra signature storage bag
- Tires: 26-by-1.75-inch city tread tires and tubes
- Pedals: Plastic platform, 9/16 inches, with CPSC reflectors
- Hand grips: Comfort gel
- Kickstand: Steel
- Reflectors: Front and rear
- Frame size: 18.5 inches
- Standover height: 32 inches
- Weight: Approximately 40 pounds
- Warranties: Lifetime on the frame, fork, and D-Drive system; 2 years on all other components
 The Urban Voyager's D-Drive technology eliminates the messy chain. |
 The bike includes an integrated speedometer attached to the handlebars. |
Amazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide
Finding the Right Bike
To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:
The Right Ride
In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:
- Road and Racing Bikes--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels, and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain.
- Mountain Bikes--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing, and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine.
- Comfort/Cruiser Bikes--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family.
The Right Price
A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.
- Entry-level--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use.
- Mid-range--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension.
- High-end--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultralightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action.
The Right Size
Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:
- Stand-over Height--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height.
- Top Tube Length--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half, and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit.
- Bikes for Women--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance.
The Right Accessories
When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:
- Helmet (this is a must!)
- Seat pack
- Lock
- Hydration pack, or water bottle and bottle cage
- Spare tubes
- Portable bike pump
- Gloves
Customer Review: Chainless Bike Provides Smooth Performance
I read everything I could find about this bike before I purchased it. As is the general case, you need to be careful about what people say about things as they tend to be opinion based rather than factual. I have now put 60 plus miles on my new bike and I really enjoy it. The seat was not comfortable to me so I replaced it with a $20 seat from Walmart. I did not downrate the bike for this as it did not surprise me. I have found the seven gears to be more than adequate and spend most of my riding time in gears 1 through 4. I am 63 years old and find that this bike meets my needs without having 21 gears to go through.
I read a lot of information about chainless bikes where they were being knocked because the bevel gears were not as efficient as a chain. I am a mechanical engineer and I found those statements to be misleading at best. A chain has so many links where efficiency can be lost not to mention the fact that the two sprockets rarely line up which must cause some binding as well. I find my chainless bike to be very efficient, smooth and easy to pedal.
I also read concerns about removing the rear tire on a chainless bike. Nothing could be further from the truth! I over inflated my rear tire and blew the inner tube so I got a quick look at this process. I would estimate that it requires about 1 to 2 minutes to remove the rear tire to replace the inner tube. The first time should take you longer as you will want to read the instructions. This process is no big deal and I did not get greasy from a chain in the process!
If you want to find a downside with this bike, it would be with the instruction material. The quality of some of the pictures is not as good as it could be and the written words make you want to rely on the pictures!
Monday, December 8, 2008
Mongoose Lilac Kids' 16-Inch Cruiser Bike
 |  |
Customer Review: A pain to put together.
I'm a very mechanical person and usually I'd prefer to assemble things myself. I'll never buy a bike unassembled again! It was almost a two hour job to put this thing together.
Customer Review: Great Bike!
My 4 1/2 year old absolutely loves this bike. It is very girly, with flowers on the seat and all over the frame and hearts on the tire tread. If you have a little "princess" it is just what she needs. The bike itself was very easy to assemble and is really sturdy. It is a pretty heavy bike, but my daughter doesn't seem to have any problems riding it or moving it around while walking beside it. Overall, my daughter and I both think it is a great bike!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Avenir Mountain Bike Unicycle (20-Inch Wheel)
Customer Review: Awesome Unicycle
This is a great Unicycle. I love it it is build for jumps, hops, and many other tricks. If you want to have fun or learn to unicycle you should get this unicycle. Plus it has the extra wide tire for jumps.
Customer Review: I Love my unicycle!
I ordered this Avenir unicycle a few weeks ago and i just love it so far! It is a very reliable unicycle and is very sturdy. It rides great and handles well for hopping. I love the 2.5 inch wide tire with its big tread, giving it excellent traction. I reccomend this product to anyone who wants to have a great time!
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Planet Bike Comfort GEL Road Bike Handlebar Tape with Reflective Bar Plugs
About Planet Bike
In November of 1996, Planet Bike was founded in Madison, Wisconsin. In many ways, Planet Bike began as a social experiment that dedicated itself to doing business in a different way. Instead of being just another company that develops and sells products with profit as its end goal, Planet Bike wanted to help bring about positive change for people, their communities, and the environment.
Despite being a simple machine, the people at Planet Bike have always believed that the bicycle has great potential to help improve the world and the lives of the people in it. From the start, they have embraced an alternative corporate purpose which seeks to help get more people on bicycles by making communities friendlier places for the self-propelled. By donating 25% of company profits to causes that promote and facilitate bicycle usage, Planet Bike hopes to make an impact.
Social experiments aside, Planet Bike was born from the heart of a cyclist with a goal of making innovative, high quality, and practical bicycle accessories. Simply put, they strive to design and develop the best bicycle products in the world. In the company's short ten year history, they have made important product innovations within the bicycle industry. Advancements include the 4-line computer which is now a standard in the industry and the world's first self-contained HID light. Not bad for a company that ten years ago started as a one man operation. Today, while still a small company, Planet Bike continues to evolve and improve their product line with the goal of always striving to build accessories that make it easier for people to ride their bikes. Since 1996, Planet Bike's financial support of the grassroots bicycle movement has totaled $500,000. By 2010, they have made a goal to donate $1 million to organizations that are dedicated to making America a friendlier place for cyclists.
Customer Review: It's good grip tape.
It's not very remarkable, but it does what is supposed to. I used it to replace some "tape" on my dad's 1760's Shwinn Varsity, and am very pleased.
On the quality: It seems great. I don't have a whole lot of experience on the stuff, but it was very easy to put on for a couple of reasons. First off, it is stretchy, and won't tear if you pull it tight. It's actually quite difficult to stretch it to breaking point (of course you can, though). It is backed with a substance that is tacky, but not like glue. It might be the same type of stuff they stick on the bottom of cycling shorts to keep them from riding up. Anyway, it's very forgiving if you mess up.
The one thing that I have noticed is that it is starting to unwind on one side. However, this is due to the way I wrapped that side. IT IS NECESSARY TO WRAP THIS STUFF WITH THE RIGHT METHOD. Google it or something. Also, the tape they gave me was not good or long enough. Have some electrical tape ready.
About the color. I bought the yellow, which was SOLID yellow and not flaked like the red-black deal in the picture. It's nice.
Customer Review: I would use again
This was the first time that I have used bar tape, it went on easily. I would recommend this to others.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Cars 16-Inch Boys BMX Bike
Customer Review: No tire tread!
I wanted to buy this bike for my son partly because I did not find bad reviews, but when I went to the store to see it in person I was disappointed. There's virtually no tread on the tires. I'm not looking for a "dirt bike" but isn't tread useful for stopping quickly? Now I need to find a different bike.
Customer Review: Cute
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Schwinn Coronado Men's 26-Inch Comfort Bike
On the Coronado the SR M2000 suspension fork helps absorbs shock and maneuver bumps in the road dynamically. The suspension seat post offers additional shock absorption for easy riding and with an adjustable alloy stem and comfort riser you can create the perfect custom fit.
The high-quality Shimano 21-speed SRAM rear derailleur controlled by the grip shift offers as much adjustable power as a standard mountain bike. The shifting system allows you to bike up steep inclines without straining your joints and to control your downhill speed without wearing out the brakes. The responsive ProMax alloy linear pull brakes offer all the stopping power you need and are operated with easy to use ProMax alloy 4-finger pulls. Additional features include: alloy hubs, stainless spokes, flat comfort pedals, a memory foam saddle for a soft seat, and a heavy-duty alloy kickstand.
Specifications:
- Frame: Schwinn aluminum frame
- Fork: SR m2000 suspension fork
- Hubs: alloy
- Rims: alloy 36 hole silver
- Spokes: 14 gram stainless
- Tires: Schwinn 26 x 1.95-inch comfort tires
- Rear derailleur: Shimano TX-31
- Shift levers: sram mrx 7 speed twist
- Brakes: ProMax alloy linear pull
- Brake levers: ProMax alloy 4 finger
- Stem: Schwinn alloy adjustable rise
- Headset: VP alloy
- Handlebar: Schwinn 600 millimeter comfort rise bar
- Grips: Schwinn single density black
- Crankset: SR Suntour CW-XR170ABG 24/34/42T
- Pedals: comfort flat
- Saddle: Schwinn memory foam with spring
- Seat post: alloy suspension post
- Kickstand: heavy-duty alloy
About Schwinn
Founded in 1895, Schwinn is an American icon that has been synonymous with quality and innovation. They have built some of the best-known and best loved bikes of numerous generations--Aerocycle, Paramount, Phantom, Varsity, Sting-Ray, Krate and Homegrown. Today, Schwinn continues to be a leader in the industry with innovative bikes such as the new Sting-Ray, Rocket mountain bikes, and Fastback road bikes. With a continued dedication to quality, forever synonymous with the Schwinn name, America's most famous bicycle brand looks forward to providing another century of innovation, freedom and performance to people of all ages.
Amazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide
Finding the Right Bike
To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:
The Right Ride
In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:
- Road and Racing Bikes--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels, and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain.
- Mountain Bikes--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing, and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine.
- Comfort/Cruiser Bikes--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family.
The Right Price
A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.
- Entry-level--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use.
- Mid-range--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension.
- High-end--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultralightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action.
The Right Size
Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:
- Stand-over Height--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height.
- Top Tube Length--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half, and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit.
- Bikes for Women--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance.
The Right Accessories
When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:
- Helmet (this is a must!)
- Seat pack
- Lock
- Hydration pack, or water bottle and bottle cage
- Spare tubes
- Portable bike pump
- Gloves
Customer Review: Great Schwinn quality
This bike is lightweight, strong, has great gear control for the price. The seat wasn't as comfortable as I had hoped. However with a new seat all is well. Schwinn quality.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Topeak Bike Cover (Mountain Bikes)
Customer Review: Topeak bike cover
This cover arrived today & I put it on the bike, an EXL Cannondale Adventure street bike & it is a super fit.
I was concerned that it might be too small but the fit is great.
We live one block from the ocean & even though the bike is garage kept, the salt air will get to things & they will rust.
I hope this cover will delay the rusting process.
The material seems like a heavier weight & plenty thick for it's job.
Later.
Bill in FL
Customer Review: Only lasted a year
Ar first I really liked this cover as it fit my bike well. I ordered a second one when I bought a new bike from AMZN. It last about a year before it rotted and tore. For this price I think it should have lasted at least 2 years. I will not purchase another one, so if anyone has found a durable cover in this price range please let me know. Thanks.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Sunlite Cloud Nine Gel Bicycle Seat Cover, for Cruiser or Exercise Bikes
What a difference this seat makes! From completely uncomfortable to comfort. So much better than before...For really long rides like an hour could use even more gel I think. I may consider trying the next one up with even more gel.
Customer Review: Fits the Confidence Foldable Stow Away Bike
A very comfy seat. I bought this to go with the Confidence Foldable Stow Away Bike, and it fit perfectly.
GMC Denali Road Bike
Specifications:
- Frame: Aluminum 7005 straight gauge
- Fork: GMC Series 7000 steel
- Chain: KMC Z 51
- Crankset: Prowheel Alloy 335P6 28X38X48 170mm
- Front Derailleur: Shimano FD-TZ 31 Index
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano RD-TZ30GS 7SPD
- Shifters: Shimano Revo SIS L2/R7
- Brake levers: Promax BL-250AP Aluminum
- Brakes: Promax 501A Alloy Caliper Brake
- Rims: Vitesse Alloy black 700CX14GX36H
- Tires: Kenda Black With Grey Band 700X28C
- Stem: Aluminum black EXT:100mm 0D.
- Handlebar: Maesbend W: 430mm D:22.0mm
- Saddle: Cionlli Black
- Seat post: HL Aluminum Micro Adjust 27.2 X 300mm
- Pedals: VP-990S plastic body with steel cage
- Weight: 29.0 lbs
Amazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide
Finding the Right Bike
To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:
The Right Ride
In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:
- Road and Racing Bikes--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain.
- Mountain Bikes--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine.
- Comfort/Cruiser Bikes--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family.
The Right Price
A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.
- Entry-level--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use.
- Mid-range--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension.
- High-end--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultra-lightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action.
The Right Size
Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:
- Stand-over Height--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height.
- Top Tube Length--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit.
- Bikes for Women--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance.
The Right Accessories
When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:
- Helmet (this is a must!)
- Seat pack
- Lock
- Hydration pack, or water bottles and bottle cages
- Spare tubes
- Portable bike pump
- Gloves
Customer Review: Great Cross Trainer Bike
I've bought high dollar bikes in the past but I just wanted something to take a spin on and get a little different type of exercise. I read many of the reviews and I can say in a nutshell that this bike is great for getting out and enjoying some exercise. It is aluminum but it isn't real light. Who cares. You'll get more exercise. I'm sure no one's going to buy this bike for the Olympics. It was pretty easy to put together and with a few simple adjustments I was on the road. Unless you are about 6'2" or have a very long inseam of 35" plus, I'd recommend the the medium or small size. It looks good too so you won't be embarrassed to be seen on it. This bike will last you for years. Good luck, and have fun.
Customer Review: Very nice bike
This is a beautiful bike, it looks great and rides great. It is quick, tight and nimble and a nice weight, it was lighter than I thought it was going to be. Very easy to assemble, but if you're not a bike mechanic I would strongly recommend bringing it to a good bike shop to tune it perfectly, it will be worth it. The brakes are effective but feel a bit inferior, for [...] you probably can upgrade the pads. If I were handed this bike from a bike shop and rode it, I would guess it would be a $600-800 bike. Well worth the money!!