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Bike Master | Biking Tribe - Part 28

All posts by Bike Master

junior road bike featured image

Junior Road Bike: A Review of the Best Road Bikes for Children in 2017

Bike riding is something that kids love to do and it has many benefits to it as well, such as helping to keep them physically fit and healthy and assisting in the development of their coordination. And, with great sporting events like the Tour de France, the USA cycling team and those exciting time trials, more and more children are taking up road cycling. Also, it can keep them occupied for those long summer days when you shudder to hear that little voice telling you for the one-hundredth time that they are bored. However, a quick trip to the bike shop and you will most likely be lost in a myriad of different bikes all boasting different features that would confuse even some of the more experienced cyclists out there. Aluminium road bikes, alloy frames, mountain bikes, carbon forks, disc brakes, Shimano brake levers… the list is endless. Therefore, to help you select the most suitable road bike for your budding cyclist, here is a list of some of the top road bikes for the next generation of junior riders in 2017:

4. Razor 62042 High Roller BMX/Freestyle Bike

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The Razor 62042 High Roller BMX/Freestyle bike has to come with mixed reviews. While many people genuinely liked the bike and found it easy to assemble and stated that it made for a pleasant ride, there were others who disliked nearly everything about the bike. One customer was very disappointed by the bike's quality, stating that the brakes were bad and of poor quality and that the bike was simply too heavy. Also, it's been said that if you want to replace the brakes, you will have difficulty doing so because the rims are oddly made and installed. This means that most likely you will be unable to find brake pads that will fit.

3. GMC Denali Road Boy's Bike, 24-Inch

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The GMC Denali 24-inch Road Bike is best used by riders who are of a smaller size. The age range would be from about 8-11. Most people who have purchased this bicycle have found that they really loved it. When it arrives at your home the setup is simple, taking only about 20 minutes to half an hour. When you are done, you have a lightweight, sporty-looking bicycle that your child will be thrilled with. At $218.94 on Amazon, this bike gives amazing value for its reasonable cost. It has a record of great endurance, going as far as 15 or more miles at a stretch repeatedly, even being used in bike races, giving an excellent performance every time. With its smaller frame, it is ideal for 8 – 12-year-olds and even for smaller sized adults. A couple of the GMC Denali Road Bike's best features are:​

  • The shifters on the handlebars are simple to use.
  • It requires very little assembly, only the front wheel, seat and handlebars and with its aluminum frame is incredibly light and easy to handle. You can also purchase upgrades such as longer pedals too.

There are, however, some negatives associated with this bike and they are as follows:

  • One customer complaint is that since it is not a steel bike it was built to lower standards and had some low-quality parts. There is threaded steering and the bolted seat is cheaply made.

Also, at least one unfortunate purchaser assembled the entire bike, only to find that the fork, which came attached by the company, was put on backward. There have also been warnings that because the bike is relatively inexpensive it will fall apart easily.

2. Mongoose Boy's Banish Hybrid Bike, 24-Inch/Small

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The Mongoose Banish 24" Hybrid bike is the ideal bicycle for your child's local recreational usage or a more challenging ride on a bike path. The front and rear disc brakes give smooth and easy braking and allow for no wear and tear on the rim walls. The bike comes assembled for the most part and is lightweight with an aluminium frame. Good for a child of 8-12. The price is reasonable and you get your money's worth. Some of the positive features of this bike are:​

  • Hybrid sized tires, which means that at 24" they are not mountain bike tires, nor are they road bike tires, but in between for both uses.
  • Lightweight and easy to handle.
  • Leaves room for the child to grow into it.

Some of the negatives about this bike are as follows:

  • A lot of assembly work. Both wheels must go on, the seat and the pedals.
  • Poor components. One customer had both gear shifters on the handlebars break and required replacement. Then, several weeks later the bicycle chain broke and the brakes were left with a prominent squeaking sound.

1. Giordano Libero 1.6 Girls Road Bike (24-Inch Wheels)

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This elegantly created, hand-crafted bicycle boasts Shimano Claris 16-Speed STI shifters, 24-inch wheels, and 1 3/8-inch tires to all come together in an amazing piece of machinery that will exceed your expectations. The one thing you can be certain about is that this bike is made to last. Weighing a total of 26 lb, it is designed for riders who are anywhere from 4 feet 7 inches – 5 feet tall. Decorated in white and pink colors, it is ideal for a young girl to start out on and then grow into a little bit and enjoy cruising about the neighborhood while she does it. Some of the other positive features of the Giordano Libero 1.6 Girls Road Bike are:​

  • The reasonable price is a draw for many parents, who know that the bike will only last around 2 years or so before their child outgrows it.
  • Some customers have remarked that they are pleased with a bike of top quality, which features smaller components and the fact that you can upgrade it.

On the other hand, there do seem to be a few negatives pertaining to this bike:

  • One parent complained that their daughter who is 8 years old was the right size for the height of the bike, but the reach to the handlebars was way too far for her.
  • Also, it was stated that the brakes aren't really a good quality and are slow when it comes to stopping.
  • Another customer voiced the complaint that the bike was actually heavier than it looked and wasn't really all that lightweight.

In general, when it comes to these bikes, they are generally a great buy with good value and long-lasting endurance. The children they are intended for usually enjoy them and have many happy times riding. However, there are some pretty serious negatives to consider in a few cases and you should give serious thought to the matter before you commit to buying a bike.

In the long run, though, it's really up to you and your child to determine which bike is right for them. Once you've done that, hurry up and go buy one today so that your child can begin the summer with a brand new awesome bike!​

Gary Fisher Bikes: Are Gary Fisher Bikes Still Considered Good?

If you are familiar with the world of mountain biking, you'll know that the Gary Fisher collection is far more than a mere bicycle brand. He's thought of by some as the "godfather" of mountain bikes. After all, he was the one who came up with the name 'mountain bike' and evolved the concept of biking off road.

Description

Nowadays, Gary Fisher still remains one of the most recognizable names in the mountain biking world. If you take your mountain biking seriously and are active enough, you've definitely seen at least several Gary Fisher Mountain Bikes roar by. Although they are no longer being manufactured, they are still considered top of the line when it comes to mountain bikes.

Gary Fisher mountain bikes are now under Trek and are called the Gary Fisher Collection. They have a history going back several decades.

Fisher himself was at the helm of the company from the 1970s into the 90s when it came upon a few bumps in the road and was consequently taken over by Trek. Presently, the partnership that exists between Trek and Fisher is unusual, being one that seems ideal for both parties. Trek manages the daily business and governs any investing in new technology or materials. This arrangement allows Fisher to do what he is famous for besides bike racing: Create and produce innovative designs that keep changing the standards of the industry.

Gary Fisher mountain bikes can be relied upon to have excellent specs and frames when placed side by side with other non-budget brands and plenty of bicycle shops carry them because of this. Fisher bikes have a geometry that’s quite unlike other accepted designed brands and when you first experience it, you will need some time to get accustomed to the feel.

It's highly recommended that you go to a professional bike shop for a fitting and trial ride before you choose this bike as the brand for you. However, once you get used to the Genesis and Genesis 2 geometry, which partners slow speed agility with stability at fast speeds, it's likely that you won't regret purchasing this bike.

Be forewarned, though, that some riders do say that the bikes are somewhat twitchy. On the other hand, others declare that they appear to handle line changes more smoothly going either uphill or downhill. The main theory behind Genesis Geometry is to raise the fork offset, so the position of your hand moves back and thus weights the front part of the bike better.

Back in 2002, Fisher moved into 29" bikes and apparently gave the 26" market to Trek. The concept behind having larger wheels is to provide a swifter, more stable, and easier ride. While Gary definitely wants to be the leader in the 29" field, he's now also involved with road biking and has been designing new bikes in that area. The Fisher line further builds a hybrid, commuter/lifestyle, cycle cross and bikes for kids.

Testing innovative designs like the first suspension system for bikes is a Fisher trademark. He tried out the use of tandem drum brakes, motorcycle brake levers, thumb shifters, and cables, the uni-crown fork, and a whole host of other ideas.

As for Fisher today, he shows no signs of slowing down. He still races and was inducted into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, and named the "Founding Father of Mountain Bikes" by Smithsonian magazine in 1994. He also does talent scouting for the company in the sport of mountain bike racing.

29er Models

Gary Fisher Bikes introduced the 29er mountain bike to their line-up in 2002 and in the years since have worked to obtain a better response time and improve low-speed handling. These things are frequently problematic when it comes to these bikes with bigger wheels.

These bikes feature the G2 geometry that shrinks the handlebar reach and the size of the cockpit, which helps improve the fit difficulties that are a major problem for riders of smaller stature who want to purchase a 29er.

Here are some characteristics of the Gary Fisher 29er mountain bikes:​

    • G2 geometry
    • Less cockpit size
    • Lightweight—for instance, the Superfly 29er mountain bike comes with a carbon frame
    • Wider rims for more strength and stiffness
    • Several material options to choose from for the frame, such as butted and hydroformed aluminum, True Temper OX Platinum, and carbon
    • Full-suspension, hardball, and single speed choices

GarFisher also produces three full suspension mountain bike 29ers:

  • Superfly 100 – This is a 29er with an extremely lightweight carbon full suspension
  • HiFi 29er – This 29er is another version of the Superfly, but this time using aluminium.
  • Rumblefish 29er – This is a technical full suspension trail bike

Gary Fisher mountain bikes also have among their 29ers a group of hardtailers:

  • Superfly Hardtail – Carbon frame with an option for single speed
  • Paragon – Hardtail for racing with aluminum alloy
  • X-Caliber – Good for either racing or trails it also has aluminum alloy
  • Rig Single Speed – One more single speed choice, but this time in an aluminum alloy frame
  • Cobia -- Cheaper 29er hardtail
  • Mamba -- Entry Level 29er hardball

So, while like Gary Fisher himself, the Gary Fisher brand hasn't gone away; it has now become a classic and still has fans worldwide. Most bicycle shops still sell the Gary Fisher mountain bikes and there is still a rock solid customer base for them. People even purchase them on eBay or directly from sellers online if not for themselves then to initiate their children into the Gary Fisher fan club.

Things at the company may not be like they used to be, but it was worth all the energy and effort that was expended to turn this into a top brand. Now it will live on and certain bikes have already become collector's items.

With new fans coming onto the bandwagon every day and old fans that stay loyal and true, this brand will be around for a long time yet. And it deserves to be because it still ranks among the best mountain bikes ever created.​

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Endurance Road Bikes: 2017 Buyer’s Guide & Top 5 Reviews

With the arrival of the New Year came an influx of new and better road bikes, also known as race bikes. From adventure bikes made for charging out there into the unknown to aerodynamic race bikes designed for speed, right now there seems to be so many options out there that there is literally something for everyone. With an array of features to look for, such as carbon frames and carbon forks, drivetrains, and stronger wheels, as well as added stiffness and improved road vibration for the perfect endurance race even on a rough road. Here's a list of the top 5 road bike reviews for this year:

5. Canyon Endurace CF SLX

Canyon makes some of the fastest road bikes available and sells them at amazingly low prices. A German brand, their bikes have come to the U.S. at long last. The 2017 Endurance CF SLX is the first disc brake road bike that Canyon has built. It features a carbon fiber frame and has been created for utmost control, ease, and effectiveness. Here you have a bike that climbs, gears up for sprints, and acts like a racing bike in every way, but still provides the ease and tire clearance you'd expect from an endurance bike.​

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Some of the positive points of the Canyon Endurance CF SLX are as follows:​

  • The seatpost is a leaf spring design which provides lots more flexibility than other seatposts giving the bike a remarkably smooth ride.
  • With a frame weighing 820g the rider is guaranteed a responsive ride.

It's really difficult to find any flaws with this bike, but here a couple anyhow:

  • It's definitely not meant to be an aero machine like the Aeroad, which might disappoint some, but it does what it needs too quite well.
  • It might further disappoint some people that the Endurance isn't meant to be as sharp as Canyon's Ultimate bike either.

4. Cervelo S3 Disc

With the affixing of disc brakes on the Cervelo S3 Disc, the engineers at Cervelo's were able to redesign the old fork, lifting the crotch area up and widening the legs in order to lessen drag by 19 grams. Improved cable routing and adding an internal battery mount for Shimano Di2 battery serves to make it less difficult to reach the cables when the battery needs to be recharged. Also redesigned were the seatstays and chainstays in order to achieve ultimate handling and control. But what's truly amazing is that Cervelo managed to accomplish all of this and still eliminate 40 grams covering the S3's frame and fork.

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Some of the finer qualities of the Cervelo S3 Disc are:​

  • Shimano's Ultegra Di2 is practically without a flaw and the flat-mount hydraulic discs just serve to improve it.
  • Geometry that gives the bike its racy feeling.

Two of the only negatives of the Cervelo S3 Disc are:

  • At $7,400 it is rather expensive, but the excellent quality makes up for it.
  • The aero handlebars aren't all they're cracked up to be. The flat tops are difficult to hold onto and at least one rider complained they were too wide at the hoods.

3. Eddy Merckx Strasbourg 71

​In case you don't know who Eddy Merckx is, he might very well be the greatest racer that has ever graced the sport. The Strasbourg 71 is the company's first venture into the endurance/gravel bike arena. The frame set of this bike comes in both aluminium and carbon fiber and is designed specifically for long lasting rides off the beaten path with comfortable endurance geometry, disc brakes, and room for wider tires.

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Two of the pluses in favor of the Eddy Merckx Strasbourg 71 are:​

  • Lots of clearance in both the front and rear, this despite the rack and fender mounts.
  • The crown of the fork provides you with two options for mounting for fenders and racks.

One big negative about this bike:

  • While the quality is superb, it is a little pricey at $4,999. But if you don't mind putting in the cash, the bike doesn't disappoint.

2. Focus Paralane

Designed for ease, adaptability, and great performance, the Focus Paralane fits neatly into the endurance/gravel road bike category. With a carbon fiber frame set that is also compatible with disk brakes and which has been built using endurance geometry, resulting in a longer head tube and lower bottom bracket. Made for exploring on gravel and other rugged roads it provides clearance for 35 mm tires and even has a set of fenders that are simple to install and work well on muddy, wet roads. And yet, Focus has kept the bike incredibly light weighing in at 907 grams with a 54 cm frame set.

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Some of the great aspects of the Focus Para lane:​

  • The tapered head tube makes the headset stiffer and lowers the steering weight.
  • All of the cables and hydraulic lines are routed inside the frame which serves to give them protection, plus giving the bike a clean look and giving the lines a longer service life.

About the only negative that was given for this bike is that it is not entirely a racing bike, but made more for riding.

1. Specialized Roubaix

The Specialized Roubaix issued a new type of road bike back in 2003, created specifically for riders who want comfort that lasts all day, but does not want to give up anything pertaining to performance. This led to the emergence of the "endurance bike" category, and now practically every brand out there is at least remotely connected to the Roubaix. Now the speed of the Roubaix has been increased, but the all day comfort that made it so amazing remains intact. This updated model sports an integrated front suspension system called Future Shock which provides three adjustable spring rates. Furthermore, there's the new CG-R seatpost and a "Drop Clamp" that supplies 20 mm of rear end compliance resulting in better traction and ease.

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One of the best things about the Specialized Roubaix is:​

  • It possesses comfort that provides both control and handling ease equally.

One of the complaints about the Specialized Roubaix is:

  • The saddle was too soft and the tires weren't as sharp as they should be.

Essentially these are all good bikes that provide speed, comfort, and performance. Also, there are many good endurance road bikes out there—it really comes down to your personal likes and dislikes.

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Fitness Bike: The 5 Best On-Road Fitness Bikes of 2017

Most of us have tried an exercise bike, such as a recumbent exercise bike, spin bike, upright exercise bike, stationary bike, or any other indoor cycling bike for fitness, but many of us get bored of the same exact scenery. Therefore, would you like to experience the health aspects of a healthy heart rate with an exercise bike, but with the fun and entertaining outdoors when you ride a fitness bike outside? First of all, you need to get an on-road fitness bike that is similar to a will enable you to achieve your goals and dreams. Indeed, whenever you are on the road riding your bike, you want to feel safe, secure, and enjoy your adventure without a hitch. These fitness bikes will accompany you in your riding experience and for many more years if this is your wish. As a result, you will make unforgettable memories and your bike session will be smooth and grandiose. Here are 5 on-road fitness bikes that will do the trick and work their magic on you. Actually, you won’t regret taking a look at this list. Pick one and make your exercise much easier and more enjoyable.

5. Raleigh Cadent 1 Urban Fitness Bike

To begin with, a Raleigh Cadent 1 Urban Fitness Bike is very useful for everyday activities such as riding to work or any place you would like to go and it will give you the opportunity to work out your legs. The fresh design of the bike will provide you with a proper workout that you won’t forget. Whenever you hit the road with the Raleigh, it allows you to go out and do what you love the most.

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Secondly, you’ll appreciate the lively ride of the lightweight aluminium frame. This machine boasts an easy-shifting 21-speed Shimano drive-train and powerful Tektro linear-pull brakes for the road's peaks and valleys. And you will always feel at ease while you cruise around with your Raleigh.

The Raleigh Cadent 1 Urban Fitness Bike features a new frame with updated commuter-friendly geometry, Shimano components, a wide range of gears, Weinman QR17 double wall rims, and Selle Royal Shadow+ Saddle.

4. SE Bikes Monterey 1.0 Performance Fitness Hybrid Bike

As a matter of fact, the Monterey exists in different sizes, so you can pick the one that will suit you the best. This model is perfect for fitness fanatics looking for a hybrid that’s closer to a road bike than a mountain bike.

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In fact, the bike is made of mechanical disc brakes, combined with a lightweight alloy frame, offering swift stopping power. The bike contains several Shimano components, including Shimano EZ Fire shifters, a Shimano Altus front derailleur, and Shimano Acera rear derailleur. A semi-integrated Shimano gives way for a distinct steering on and off-road. A lightweight alloy frame, Shimano 24 speed drive-train, and reliable Tektro disc brakes run evenly on roads and bike paths. Plus, rack and water bottle mounts are part of the deal. Isn’t it amazing? You can replenish your energy after riding for hours.

3. Mongoose Reform Comp 700C Dual Sports Hybrid Bicycle

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For a start, Mongoose Reform Comp is a bike meant for those who prefer to ride anywhere instead of driving a car. However, you can also use this machine for fitness purposes and escapades as well. This bike is ready to undertake any challenges. Furthermore, the highlights include tires that are wider than those found on a regular commuter bike, which permits the bike to better handle gravel and rough road surfaces, along with a durable suspension fork that consumes vibrations. Tubeless-ready rims facilitate the bike’s light weight. The platform pedals are included with reflectors for maximum security on the road. Therefore, the Mongoose Reform Comp will enable you to reach your objectives and you will feel safe as well. So, if you don’t feel like driving, you can ride a Mongoose Reform Comp and feel free to do whatever gets you going.

2. Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Bike

​This hybrid bike can be used for commuting and fitness demands. Furthermore, from 24 speeds, the bike also contains a durable aluminum frame and fork along with disc brakes for full control over stops. Flat, upright handlebars ensure a peaceful ride over any type of territories. In addition, there is no need to spend more money on pedals since they are included with the bike. Water bottle mounts are also part of the package.

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This bike is perfect for activity outdoors and whenever it rains, this machine is designed to adapt to any sudden weather changes. So, this bike will give you everything that you need and you won’t feel like that there is something missing. The Vilano Diverse 3.0 is very compatible for any situation that may occur and, of course, this is a massive bonus.

1. FX 1 Stagger

First and foremost, the FX 1 Stagger is the perfect definition of fitness that is to say you can work out while exploring new places. This bike combines both road bike speed and city bike comfort. It’s a perfect fitness bike and so much more.

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The FX is quick, entertaining, and simple for many uses. You can work out and ride on the streets; you can also use it to go and meet up some friends or go anywhere you would like. There are no limitations, you are allowed to do whatever you want.

  • This fitness bike features a light frame, DuoTrap S compatible.
  • The weight is 26.96 lb.
  • The frame is made of WSD FX Alpha Gold Aluminium, DuoTrap S compatible, rack and mudguard mounts.

At last, on-road fitness bikes perfectly match your expectations if you want to ride and exercise at the same time. Whichever you choose, it will be the ideal bike for your traveling and exercise if you are not a fan of car or you enjoy cycling. And you can rejoice with your friends and family. For instance, you can have a group biking session and create memories. These bikes are secured, solid, and well-equipped. It is incredible that these machines can be used for various purposes, you don’t feel that you are limited but rather the opposite. You have options, you can choose whatever makes you happy and fulfilled. Alternatively, if you want to start a new way of life, you should definitely acquire one of these bikes on this list.

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