Would you like to have an “iron friend” with whom you could bypass traffic jams during rush hour, and go into a store (without fear) past security, and at home would not require “apartments” and would not eat up square meters?
Then take a look at a compact folding bike. The original design will not only help you travel safely, but will also emphasize your individuality. You definitely won’t go unnoticed among others. Manufacturers of folding bicycle brands have taken care of this.
What to look for when choosing a folding compact bicycle for adults?
By offering this product to the buyer, manufacturers constantly surprise with improved new products. Technically, they differ little from the “advanced” models. Therefore, before purchasing, look at the following parameters:
Wheel size
Manufacturers offer:
- 16 inches (rarely found, series of releases are small) - belong to the most compact urban bicycles. Can withstand short walks (up to 16 km);
- 20-inch wheels easily develop a good roll on city and country roads. Most common size. Compact, easy to fold. You can safely go for a walk outside the city with them. Will withstand all the bumps of the road
- 24 inches - similar to regular city bikes. They are not difficult to overcome low curbs. It's easy to climb up and down the mountain. They develop excellent speed due to their size;
- 26 inches - will allow you to safely go for a walk in the park area or outside the city. A bicycle with such wheels already belongs to the mountain type. Maneuverable, easy to control. Makes riding fun;
- 28 inches - Can compete with other types of mountain bikes. It won't make it difficult to climb. With such dimensions it is easy to balance. Develops decent speed.
Rostovka
This parameter should not be neglected. Ride comfort and, as a result, health depend on this. By choosing the required height and length of the frame, you will automatically relieve yourself of back and joint pain. You need to remember this and be sure to ask bicycle sellers.
If we take average statistics, the approximate size was calculated for a person with a height of 150 to 190 cm. This is the only size for folding bicycles. Manufacturers of these models describe in detail its characteristics for each bicycle.
Also pay attention to:
- cyclist's body type;
- character and driving style;
- availability of adjustments (the ability to customize the saddle and handlebar “to suit you”).
The peculiarity of folding bicycles is that they do not have a top tube. You need to select it so that your knees do not rest against the steering wheel.
Hitch
Decide for yourself: how and where you are going to use this model. Then you will immediately understand what attachments you would like to see on your bike. Its cost will depend on this.
Approximate configuration options for:
- entry level. It’s quite enough to get to a given point and back. Does not require a transmission with multiple gears. A single-speed foot brake will cope with this task quite well, even on a dirt road.
- mid-level is enough to awaken the bike enthusiast in you. Resists dust, dirt, small impacts;
- Professional-level equipment will allow you to move in any weather, over uneven surfaces and bumps. Smoothes out all the unevenness. Can handle heavy loads;
- "elite equipment" Everything is like real athletes involved in high-level cycling. Such a high bar requires modern, advanced attachments. It will allow you to spend a minimum of effort at maximum loads. Feel comfortable in the saddle. Include many other features, which will entail a very high price.
The leadership in this production is held by two large companies - Shimano from Japan and SRAM from the USA. Their products are confirmed by a high quality mark.
Availability of a bag-case
You should check with the seller whether a bag is included with the selected model.
It is needed:
- for transportation in a car or simply on the shoulder (a strap must be present). Helps save your interior or clothing from dirt;
- for long-term storage (if you don’t plan to ride, after cleaning, fold it, pack it in a bag and hide it, for example, on a shelf in a closet);
Advantages of folding bicycles over non-folding ones
- mobility (folds in seconds and also unfolds, which allows you to quickly get there on your own);
- compactness (even bicycles with large wheels easily fit into the trunk of a car);
- maneuverability (small turning radius);
- versatility (can be safely used by all family members due to well-thought-out adjustments).
The main advantage of a folding bicycle over a non-folding one is that it can fold the handlebars, saddle, pedals, frame and hide in a personalized bag.
Models and manufacturers
Let's try to dwell on some that have won the trust of the buyer.
Strida
Manufacturers: England and Taiwan. It first came off the production line in 1987. It is still very popular in the large cities for which it was created.
Increased interest is maintained thanks to:
- quality (tested over the years);
- drive belt, it is used instead of the usual chain (does not catch or stain clothes);
- unusual frame that resembles the letter A;
- ability to roll like a baby stroller;
- ease of care;
- attachments (easy to equip if necessary);
- wheels (rims made of durable plastic, five reinforced spokes);
- unusual design, varied range of colors and weight.
Stels
Manufacturer – Russia.
Completely Russian product. Designed for beginner cyclists.
Characterized by:
- accessibility in pricing policy;
- simple equipment and ease of maintenance;
- equipped with wings that protect from dirt.
The bike is designed for pleasure riding.
Forward
Manufacturer – Russia.
The developers took care of the smooth passage of all bumps on the roads.
Easy to store compact models:
- attachments are provided for different levels (can be equipped as desired);
- easily folds for transportation;
- takes up little storage space.
Suitable for getting around in a big city.
Schulz
It is developed in St. Petersburg and produced in China and Taiwan.
Manufacturers have created a design for a feeling of comfort when riding outside the city and driving to work.
Provided:
- planetary bushing;
- reliable braking system;
- thick tires;
- wide soft saddle;
- folding aluminum pedals;
- front reflector;
- step;
- call;
- cover.
They have found their niche thanks to low prices and good quality.
Mobiky
Manufacturer – France.
Complies with all European quality standards. The model range is presented from single-speed to electric drive. Despite its childish appearance, it can withstand weight up to 110 kg.
Advantages:
- mobility;
- folds in 3 – 5 seconds;
- when folded, the bicycle can be carried and rolled;
- a unique frame that depends not on the strength of the fastening, but on the weight of the cyclist.
A real quality European product.
Cost and where to buy
The pricing policy for folding compact bicycles is quite flexible. Since each manufacturer has a wide range of models (from simple ones to electric ones), their prices differ significantly. Each buyer will be able to choose a model depending on their financial capabilities.
You can buy simple, inexpensive models in sports or online stores. More complex and expensive models should be ordered online.
Reviews
Strida 5.2 Advantages: the saddle and handlebar are adjustable, the bike is light compared to others. It folds up very simply. I skate decently, I haven’t found any flaws yet. Very nice appearance. The model is excellent.
A folding bicycle is a very interesting type of transport that residents of modern cities should pay attention to. This type of individual transport will provide high mobility and does not interfere with pedestrian traffic. You can always take such a bicycle, for example, with you on public transport.
1. Brompton S Type
A good choice for those who travel more on the streets than on public transport. The bike itself is far from the most compact, but together in the folded video it is surprisingly one of the smallest. The structure of the Brompton S Type gives us a flexible, albeit very “classic” system of “fitting” to the cyclist. Supports 3 speeds.
2.Tern Verge N8
Modern and incredibly stylish, the Tern Verge N8 is equipped with 20-inch wheels and is perfect for medium-distance racing. This bike is distinguished by its relatively light weight, which, of course, plays into its hands when it comes to choice. Here we have only 11 kilograms.
3. Dahon Vigor P9
A very similar model to the previous representative. Dahon Vigor P9 pleases us with the same 20-inch wheels and has as many as nine gears at its disposal, which is simply incredible for urban bicycles. Another advantage of this bike is its reasonable price compared to others on the market.
4. Brompton P6R
A qualitative difference between the Brompton P6R and most other city bicycles with a folding body is the presence of a standard luggage rack. In addition to this, the bike has an incredibly flexible "fit" system, which is largely achieved through the use of modern sports handlebars.
5. Bobbin Bicycles Fold
When you look at the Bobbin Bicycles Fold, it's hard to believe that this bike is foldable. It will be quite problematic to drag it into public transport, if only because it is far from the lightest - 13.5 kg, without additional accessories. On the other hand, the Bobbin Bicycles Fold is quite cheap and looks like a regular “adult” bike, which makes riding it as comfortable as possible.
6. Montague Crosstown
The Montague Crosstown semi-sport folding bicycle has wheels that are atypically large for its class - 24.5 inches. In some cases this is a disadvantage. In some, on the contrary, there is an advantage.
7. Raleigh Evo-2
Perhaps the cheapest bike on our list is the Raleigh Evo-2. For the cost of most of the local representatives, you can buy 2-3 such bicycles, equipping, say, a whole family with them. Otherwise, it’s a fairly “standard” representative of the disassembled type of bicycle.
8.Tern Verge X20
This bike will be a luxurious choice for those who dream of comfort. Firstly, Tern Verge X20 is very light - it weighs less than 10 kg. This was achieved due to the fact that the bicycle frame is made of titanium and carbon fiber. Secondly, the bike has 20 gears, thanks to which it quickly and easily develops speed. In addition, the bike has a great design. Excellent combination of price and quality.
9. Dawes Diamond
The bike is of average price and at the same time of average quality. Not the worst representative, but compared to the “best” it can hardly stand out in any way. Despite this, the Dawes Diamond is still better than the vast majority of other folding bike models.
10. Bickerton Junction 1707 City
An incredibly “powerful” bike in terms of design. Despite its menacing appearance, Bickerton Junction 1707 City is quite light and, most importantly, comfortable. It comes with many accessories that will make riding this bike even more enjoyable and convenient when moving around the city.
Those who are too lazy to pedal should pay attention to.
Criterias of choice
The first piece of advice I would like to give to the buyer is to decide for what specific purpose the bike is being purchased. If you prefer to use your bike primarily in an aggressive style, riding over sand, mud and roots, take a look at mountain bikes (MTBs). If you spend 70-90% of your time riding on city streets and occasionally go into rough terrain, then your choice is a city bike. In city conditions, the capabilities of a mountain bike will be unnecessary. Thick tires, too soft fork - what is needed for difficult roads, with sand, roots, steep descents and climbs. On asphalt, such a bike will lose speed and acceleration to bikes with narrow tires and a hard fork. However, today consumers are offered a very interesting type of bicycle, which combines both elements of a mountain bike and elements of a road bike. This is the so-called mountain hybrid.
A mountain hybrid is a cross between a road and mountain version. It is distinguished from the mountain bike by a slightly modified frame design, narrower tires and a larger number of teeth on the latest system (48). As a result, the bike significantly increases maneuverability and maximum speed; it is easier to accelerate on smooth asphalt. At the same time, a mountain hybrid is inferior to a “road” hybrid in terms of speed, but is superior in cross-country ability (road tires, in principle, are not designed for rough terrain).
If you want to reduce the risk of purchasing a low-quality bicycle with a dubious set of options and a fragile frame, then you should definitely choose only proven brands of mountain hybrids. In terms of price and quality ratio, the leader in the production of mountain hybrids is Merida. This company has the largest selection of semi-professional hybrid models, costing up to 40,000 rubles. Merida's main competitors are Author, Giant and Cube. The latter two offer slightly more expensive bikes with similar equipment. Budget models of mountain hybrids are offered by Russian manufacturers Trek and Stels.
The characteristic features of a classic city bike are:
- Closed metal frame
- Rigid fork
- Comfortable (soft) seat
- Comfortable fit
- 28" wheels
- The presence of guards over the wheels (to protect against dirt)
How to choose the right type of bike
The best bikes for the city: price – quality
4 Shulz Krabi Coaster
Quick assembly. Comfortable saddle
Country Russia
Average price: 26,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4
The elegant folding bike takes just 20 seconds to assemble, with modifications to the frame, handlebars and pedals. There is a mechanism to prevent accidental folding. The kit includes a carrying case: a good option for carrying it on your shoulder in the subway. The device has a number of features that it is advisable for a potential buyer to take into account: 24-inch wheels, a frame made of lightweight aluminum (weight only 13.7 kg), a non-height adjustable steering wheel, three speeds on a planetary hub. In this case, the permissible user weight should not exceed 110 kg.
There are a lot of comments on this model online. Basically, they note the good assembly, the presence of important accessories in the basic package (trunk, fenders, bell, reflectors, fasteners for a bicycle bottle holder). They claim that the comfortable, wide, sprung saddle allows you to take long walks without noticing fatigue. The design and weight made this bike a favorite of girls and teenagers taller than 150 cm.
3 Giant Roam 1 Disc
30-speed transmission. Shimano Deore sport shifters
Country: Taiwan
Average price: 71,100 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
Do you like speed? Do you equally enjoy fast driving in the city and on rough terrain? Do you value the reliability and durability of your equipment? In this case, the Giant Roam 1 Disc bike will be an excellent decision to buy. Giant is an extremely popular brand, one of the largest manufacturers of branded bicycles in the world, whose homeland is Taiwan. Currently, The Global Bicycle Company owns the largest production facilities.
Giant Roam 1 Disc will delight you with excellent ride and roll. 28-inch wheels combined with Shimano Deore sports shifters and a 30-speed transmission will leave all mountain bikes and cheap hybrids far behind. There is no need to be afraid of high speeds on this bike, since it is equipped with excellent Shimano BR-M355, 160mm sports brakes. The only significant disadvantage of this model is the price - during the season its purchase will cost at least 1000 USD.
2 Forward Arsenal 20 1.0 (2019)
Optimal equipment at an affordable price
Country Russia
Average price: 6,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
The new Russian-made model promises to become one of the most comfortable models for driving around the city. This confidence is based on the popularity of the prototype - Forward Arsenal 1.0 (2018) - which is visually indistinguishable, but has a number of differences. The creators replaced the TEC CD410 chain with the KMC CD410), while retaining the reusable chain connector, which can be removed without special tools. This facilitates cleaning, flushing and lubrication for high-quality transmission of traction force. In addition, the current model is equipped with Wanda P1023, 20x1.95" tires with improved tread (22TPI) instead of the original Forward (30TPI) - for perfect traction.
The owners of the updated Arsenal note the excellent quality of the steel frame, which is welded using a robotic CNC Welding system for a strong and uniform connection. In their opinion, the steering stem (Adjustable Stem) is well thought out, since it remains possible to adjust the height and angle of inclination to individual needs.
The main consumer demand for riding around the city is in two classes of bicycles: classic city models and mountain hybrids, which have the features of road (track) and mountain (off-road) bikes. What are their main advantages and what are the main disadvantages? We will find out from the comparison table.
|
Bike class |
pros |
Minuses |
|
Mountain hybrid |
Versatility Good cross-country ability on off-road and mountainous routes due to wide and grippy tires Increased dynamism on highways and in urban environments due to a large number of speeds Lightweight and somewhat elongated (relative to mountain models) design Comfortable ride over rough terrain Developing good speed Ability to independently upgrade nodes |
– Expensive maintenance (gear switches and brake units wear out) – High, relative to urban models, cost |
|
Urban |
Possibility of choosing models to suit every taste (a large number of design options) Low, relative to hybrids, cost Cheaper service Excellent driving characteristics within the city (models develop good speed on hard asphalt surfaces due to smooth tires and a narrow tread) The ability to independently customize and fine-tune bicycles to suit your own needs Comfort when riding around the city (due to the high seating position and soft saddle upholstery) Reliable protection of wear-out mechanisms from contamination |
– Poor driving performance on rough terrain and in off-road conditions – Weighted design (about 15-18 kilograms) – Still less speed potential than hybrid models |
1 Merida Crossway 100
The best ratio of price and quality
Country: Taiwan
Average price: 42,300 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0
It is very difficult to find a bike that costs about 40,000 rubles. in equipment similar to the Merida Crossway 100. This hybrid is equipped with Shimano front and rear derailleurs. At the same time, the rear derailleur is a sports one (Shimano Alivio), therefore it requires extremely rare adjustments and lasts much longer than the initial and walking derailleurs. Naturally, the bike is equipped with modern hydraulic disc brakes and a 27-speed transmission, which will allow you to choose the optimal cadence. Merida Speed 40 Reflex tires have a grippy tread that will allow you to confidently pass through shallow sand and mud. At the same time, the bike feels great on smooth asphalt.
Reviews about this model are mostly positive. Users note, first of all, the high speed performance of the Merida Crossway 100, comfortable fit, comfortable grips and stylish design. For city trips, this is one of the best options, users say. Minor drawbacks include the plastic pedals being of poor quality - for that kind of money you could have gotten something more impressive (however, this little detail can be easily changed). Also, I’m not very pleased with the design of the remote steering wheel and the poor quality of the frame adhesive (sometimes with air bubbles). We recommend purchasing this model if you like high-speed driving on asphalt and rough terrain with relatively flat ground.
The best inexpensive bikes for the city
4 Desna 2200
Elementary assembly. Bright colors
Country Russia
Average price: 7,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.0
Although the bike is positioned as an adult bike, it is best suited for teenagers (13.5" frame and 20" wheels), and the owner's weight should not exceed 70 kg. In addition, it is possible to choose a colorful color option: red, green, purple, bright blue. The model is designed for leisurely driving around the city; the most you can afford is a careful drive onto a forest path with smooth terrain. You won’t be able to take a difficult route, because this is a rigid design without shock absorption and with an entry-level rear foot brake.
Reviews praise the bike for its folding mechanism, which makes the vehicle pleasant to use in the city and when traveling to the country. Transportation when folded is perfect in the trunk of a car or on a train, electric train, etc. The plastic pedal platforms are quite comfortable to use. Video bloggers advise buying a bike in a box - this saves money, and the parameters can be customized initially for yourself.
3 Stels Pilot 710 24 Z010
ISO 9001:2011 certification. Customer-oriented service
Country Russia
Average price: 6,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
The Velomotors company, which owns the Stels brand, is the largest bicycle manufacturer in Europe and a sales leader in Russia (according to data from the official website). A quality management standard has been introduced at branded factories; this is a sign of focus on meeting consumer requirements and increasing their satisfaction with products. Any accessories and spare parts are affordable, high-quality service support is provided with a factory warranty.
Stels Pilot 710 24 Z010 is an ideal option for quiet driving over short distances. Judging by the reviews, customers like plastic walking pedals - even if their foot slips, it won’t hurt and there won’t be a scar left, like when interacting with metal. The transmission has a carriage with bulk bearings. They require timely maintenance, in particular, cleaning from dirt and changing the lubricant, but if something happens they can be easily repaired. However, if the rider’s weight exceeds 70 kg, experts recommend replacing them with industrial bearings.
2 Altair City 20
Domestic production. Low cost. Reliability
Country Russia
Average price: 7,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
Under the Altair brand, the domestic manufacturer Forward develops practical and affordable city bikes with an emphasis on quality and reliability. 3D design, production of frames and components, assembly - the entire production process is carried out in Russia. The reliability of the bike is due to the use of high-strength Russian steel with excellent paint and varnish coating, robotic welding, and thorough testing before serial production.
The 2018 model range is now particularly popular. These are classic vehicles for urban cycling, equipped with a 14" folding frame and 20" wheels, a comfortable handlebar and saddle. City 20 is a universal model, loved by both men and women. And very soon the 2019 modification will appear in retail chains. Differences of the new product: plastic pedals received a steel axle, a KMC chain was installed, the single-wall rim became double-walled and more durable, and the tires were replaced with Wanda ones.
1 Forward Valencia 1.0
Best price. Unique folding system
Country Russia
Average price: 8,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
We present an interesting teenage bicycle transport of the 2018 model year, domestically produced. A rare opportunity to buy a decent kit for city driving for a small amount: fenders, a saddle with springs, a chain guard, a trunk, a footrest, and a warning bell are installed by the manufacturer. The model is purely urban: rigid fork, one gear, high-strength steel frame. Its proprietary folding system is interesting: this version has a loop-type lock with a quick-release clamp (Forward calls the technology FDS).
The consumer rates the device quite highly, but always pays attention to the low cost. The relative negatives are the fragile plastic chain guard and a simple foot brake. On the other hand, no one wants to overpay for the initial installation of a more expensive solution. The declared “size” is from 150 to 165 cm.
The best women's bikes for the city
4 Schwinn Suburban Women
The standard of vintage style. Prestigious brand
Country: USA
Average price: 18,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4
The American cycling icon introduces the stunning Suburban Women for those who want to look stylish in any situation. By the way, the stars also appreciated riding a Schwinn: the paparazzi managed to catch Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Ryan Gosling and many others riding a Schwinn bicycle. Now let's go through the characteristics. So this is a 2018 bike that is an interesting mix of MTB and urban setup with a steel frame and spring/elastomer front fork. 26" wheels are installed, providing high torque and good traction with the road. Mechanical rim brakes are installed. The design provides 7 gears.
The comments complain that the shock absorption system does not withstand severe frosts well; the elasticity of the elastomer damper is greatly reduced. On the same forums, critics are opposed to the idea that during the cold season it is better not to travel at all, but to store transport in a specially equipped place. Well, it’s reasonable - any bicycle machine needs to be taken care of, and the Schwin even more so.
3 Giant Suede 2
Good selection of components. Easier entry into the saddle
Country: USA
Average price: 28,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6
Giant bikes have two technological advantages. ALUXX Aluminum Technology stands for very high quality standards in the production of aluminum frames, as well as smooth welding technology with hand grinding. The material used is 6011A alloy for the most optimal balance of strength and lightness. The company has a special approach to creating women's bikes, it is called 3F: Fit, Form, Function. This means that engineers and designers develop vehicles taking into account the riding styles and physical characteristics of women's bodies. The specific fit, the length of the rod, the width and slope of the steering wheel, the length of the handle, the shortened braking distance - all this is approved by the fair sex.
The comments especially praise the comfortable saddle, which is shaped to perfectly complement the female pelvis and hips. There are as many as three size ranges available for this model so that the bike fits your body type – XS, S and M. Ideal for girls who take into account every little detail when choosing.
2 Merida Crossway 300 Lady (2019)
The most advanced women's bike
Country: Taiwan
Average price: 50,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Embodying the advantages of mountain and road bikes, the Crossway 300 Lady city city bike from the famous Taiwanese brand Merida has a beautiful appearance. A hardtail with a suspension fork is a plus for handling, good contact with the road when hitting rough terrain, and low rolling resistance. The design provides three gears at the front, ten at the rear, and Shimano Deore shifters. “Dorozhnik” received them from mountain bikes, while maintaining a lightweight aluminum frame and large 28" wheels.
Basically, we came across positive, if not admiring, reviews from the owners. In addition to its visual appeal, girls appreciate its low weight - only 13 kg! Even at the stage of choosing a hybrid, the consumer usually understands that he will use the vehicle in different ways: from relaxed driving on the streets to long trips with difficult sections. There were no complaints regarding the behavior of this bike on different roads.
1 Stels Navigator 350 Lady 28 Z010
The best model for female cyclists
Country Russia
Average price: 10,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The advantages of this model include a comfortable women's saddle (wide, soft), 28" wheels", a large steel trunk with a clamp, and a branded basket. And in other characteristics, the women's vehicle does not disappoint: simple controls, high seating position, emphasis on leisurely driving, the ability to take with you the necessary little things by loading the trunk at the rear or filling the elegant volumetric basket above the front fender. The manufacturer has thought of three color options for the frame - red, purple, ivory.
People buy this model very actively; the network notes the practicality of the chassis, easy to operate and cheap to service. The girls are glad that gaining speed and overcoming climbs is very easy. Apparently, it was not in vain that the creators installed the famous Japanese entry-level Shimano drive (ratchet, sprocket, rear transmission, shifters). The fork, wheel hubs and other chassis elements are made of steel, so they are inexpensive, reliable and durable.
The best fashion bikes for the city
4 Trek Zektor i3
The best fitness bike. Thoughtful ergonomics
A country:
Average price: 16,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.3
A fitness bike is suitable for those who focus on physical activity. The vehicle has a lightweight ergonomic Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, chrome-molybdenum fork, and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. Zero rise handlebars reminiscent of cross country and trail riding styles. Very comfortable ergonomic grips. I would like to note the VP pedals with an aluminum frame, complemented by toe clips with straps.
There is often a debate online about pedaling techniques: are toe clips necessary, or are they an extra detail? The fact is that fixing the foot on the pedal makes life very easy for those who like high cadence, that is, pedaling speed. The difference in cadence between amateurs and pros sometimes reaches 30%; athletes develop high speeds and spin at about 90 rpm. If you plan to gradually improve your performance, toe clips will prevent your foot from slipping off the platform, and will also help you perform full circular pedaling during the rest phase.
3 Scott Silence 10
User choice. Withstands loads up to 120 kg
A country: USA (manufactured in Taiwan)
Average price: 128,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
A chic touring bike will attract attention in your hometown and will serve you well on a trip, hike, or out-of-town trip. This model will give the owner the best features of a road bike and mountain bike: decent speed + increased cross-country ability. The Scott Silence 10 features professional Shimano equipment, as well as a 30-speed transmission. The device has an aluminum frame and a rigid Silence Alloy fork, hydraulic disc brakes, double rims, long fenders, an adjustable stem, and a rack. Weight 15 kg.
The owners like that everything in this model is thought out to the smallest detail, for any life situation. For example, a lighting system is provided, which is very important when traveling. Touring can support a cyclist up to 120 kg. The advantages of hydraulic disc brakes are high quality braking, easy movement of the brake handle, and precise control of braking force. Also, hydraulic brakes are clearly superior to mechanics in setup and maintenance. It’s not a pity to spend money on such equipment.
2 Marin San Rafael DS3
Optimal combination of price and quality
Country: USA
Average price: 49,900 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
A mountain hybrid of a high price segment, enjoying unstable popularity among domestic cyclists. Actually, it combines the characteristics of not so much a pleasure bike as a sports bike, tailored for the training process of professional and semi-professional athletes within the city. It is impossible to say that the road component predominates in the model - the height of the tire profile and the tread width indicate a commitment to the mountain path. On the other hand, the Suntour NCX-D-LO sports fork has only 63 millimeters of travel, which is more typical for flat trails.
The bike's problems are also quite obvious. With intensive use, you will have to frequently check the integrity of the carriages, since they are the weak point of the structure. Otherwise, no specific problems are observed - all major breakdowns are, as a rule, isolated in nature, and depend entirely on the user.
1 Giant Roam 0 Disc
The best technical equipment
Country: Taiwan
Average price: 74,100 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
A bicycle from which, despite all the advantages, they demand a little more. This is precisely the characteristic that can be given to this certainly noteworthy model, aimed at use only by semi-professional and professional athletes. But you shouldn’t think that it is bad in any way - experts unanimously declare that there are no weak points in the entire design, which cannot be said about competing hybrids. What makes the Giant Roam 0 Disc stand out is the number of base speeds – there are 30 of them on the hardtail, which is three more than those of its rated opponents. It is not interesting to discuss other technical aspects, since in almost all aspects Giant is significantly ahead.
As for the size range, Taiwanese developers have prudently expanded it to six frame sizes depending on the height of the cyclist. But the only “puncture” lies far beyond the technical and operational parts. The bike only comes in a white and gray color scheme, which looks cool but is honestly very boring.
The best children's and teenagers' bicycles for the city
4 Top Gear Eco
Compactness. Folding mechanism
Country: China
Average price: 8,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.0
A universal walking model with a neutral design that is suitable for any gender and age. The package includes a trunk, fenders, chain protection - and all this for less than 9,000 rubles. The steel frame folds and unfolds, making it very easy to transport the bike in the trunk and into the elevator. The double folding system is extremely simple and efficient. When disassembled, it fits easily into the trunk of a car and takes up minimal space when stored in a garage or on a balcony.
There are a lot of reviews on the Internet - this popularity is explained by the low cost. Many people pay attention to the strength of the steel frame, which means that a novice rider should not worry if a fall or minor collision occurs. Again, due to the material, the bike is heavy; not every teenager can handle 17 kg. There are complaints about the flimsiness of the fastenings of the folding mechanism, so the owners recommend taking additional care of reliable fixation.
3 Shulz Bubble 20
The best option for a child 6 - 8 years old. Practical details
Country Russia
Average price: 21,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6
SHULZ is a well-known St. Petersburg bicycle workshop that grew out of the bicycle rental business. This time the team has created a great model for urban children aged 6 to 8 years. The bicycle is designed for heights of 115 – 130 cm. Children, who are not yet able to evaluate the technical characteristics, are delighted with the visual component: the designers have thought of five color options for the frame. White, pink, blue, green or black - which shade would win your child's favor?
Parents pay attention primarily to the weight; for Bubble 20 it does not exceed 8 kg. The belt drive will make the drive smooth, will not get dirty, and will be easy to maintain. The Shimano Nexus 3-speed planetary hub will help little riders overcome hills, and shifting gears is really easy to master. The lack of shock absorption will allow you to move quickly, but for a comfortable ride you will have to look for a high-quality road surface. In a big city this won't be a problem.
2 Schwinn Drift (2018)
Easy start. Comfortable trip
Country: USA
Average price: 10,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
We present the most reasonable and optimal choice for comfort for children from 6 to 9 years old who are learning to ride a two-wheeled bicycle. The Drift model is developed on the basis of sports bikes, as evidenced by the low frame geometry with expressive pipe angles. The carriage is moved forward to make it easier for the rider to maintain balance. What other factors influence the comfort of a trip for beginners? These are low weight, thoughtful support of the child's body by the seat, the correct diameter of the handles, an easy start mechanism and low speed.
Studying the array of reviews, the idea comes that this option is chosen by parents with an adequate attitude towards children's mobility and pranks. Even if the route passes through mud and puddles, the child’s clothes will remain clean, and all thanks to the full-length chain protection. Reliable rim brakes will last well if you check for wear and adjust as the pads wear down.
1 Cube Ella 200
Ideal choice for girls 9 – 12 years old. Increased security
Country: Germany
Average price: 30,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Girls like this beautiful and lightweight bicycle with a low aluminum frame for its impressive design and ease of riding. The creators used the current Cube Frame Save technology - a gear selector mounting system with a special thread for fastening the rear derailleur. Upon impact, only the replaceable element is deformed, while the frame remains intact. Another technological advantage is Wet Paint Surface, or wet multi-layer application of varnish, which helps prevent abrasion of logos and inscriptions.
The manufacturer installed effective V-brake brakes with high-quality pads, a bright headlight ensures ideal visibility, and there is a bell on the steering wheel. With an ergonomic saddle, it’s not tiring to ride at a walking pace, even for several hours in a row. And don’t let the high cost bother you, because the steering wheel and saddle are adjustable for height, which means the model is practical and will last for more than one season. In addition, the package includes a trunk, fenders, a running board and a dynamo hub that generates electricity from the torsion of the front wheel.