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In the modern bicycle market, there is a huge selection of brands that produce models of various types. But can they all be trusted? In order for the bike to serve for a long time, it is important to pay attention to the quality of its manufacture, assembly, the materials from which it is made, and additional equipment. As a rule, well-known world brands have a stable level of quality, they also give a guarantee (including an extended one) for their products, so you should pay attention first of all to them.
It is always important to first decide on the purpose of buying a bike. If you like quiet bike rides, then you should choose a city-type bike. If you are traveling and discovering new places, pay attention to urban patterns. Road bikes are suitable for sports and competitions.
CUBE Bikes
A brand from Bavaria with a poor history, but with wide popularity throughout Europe. The company has its own conveyor and design and technical center. Bicycles are tested not only in laboratory conditions, but also in the natural environment with the participation of experienced athletes. The brand has its own technologies, such as, for example, brake cooling (Active Brake Cooling).
Unique is the external design of bicycles. The peculiarity is that the color scheme of the bike is uniform: the frame, saddle and other elements have the same color.
Which models are worth paying attention to
CUBE Aim
Amateur mountain bike. The frame is made of heat-strengthened aluminium, available in several sizes. Wheel variations are also different: 27.5 or 29 inches. The suspension fork has 100mm of travel and the transmission is equipped with 24 speeds. Brakes – hydraulic disc, they are distinguished by good reliability and durability. Various modifications include a different type of body kit and the number of speeds.
CUBE Nutrail
This is a cross country bike. It is great for driving in extreme conditions, and also easily overcomes various difficult tracks. Equipped with professional equipment, depending on the modification, the number of speeds and frame size differ. 26″ wheels with double rims allow you to pass obstacles with less effort, and reliable hydraulic disc brakes will not let you down when maneuvering.
Gary Turner (GT)
This is a famous American brand that has gained recognition all over the world. The company produces some of the best sports bikes. A special feature are the frames in the shape of a triangle, which are highly durable. The unique I-Drive suspension system provides good flotation, handling and maneuverability.
Each model is developed with the participation of experienced racers, so all the nuances of the design are taken into account for comfort and safety.
Which models are worth paying attention to
Gary Turner ZASKAR AL COMP
The model is ideal for sports cycling. A special feature is the special aluminum frame made of pipes with variable wall thickness, which significantly improves its performance while maintaining strength and reducing weight. Large treaded wheels provide good rolling on any type of track. The suspension fork will help soften overcoming bumps in rough terrain. Rich equipment and high-quality equipment facilitate the maintenance process and make the ride as comfortable as possible.
Gary Turner 29 AGGRESSOR COMP
This model is the perfect touring bike. AGGRESSOR COMP is great for use as a vehicle. High-quality materials and high-quality assembly allow you not to waste time and money on maintenance. It has everything you need: big wheels, disc brakes, 21 speeds and a stylish look.
Gary Turner Avalanche Sport
This is a pretty big bike. The model is designed for off-road driving, perhaps even for extreme cycling. It is distinguished by a shortened heavy frame and a massive wheelbase, which increases stability and maneuverability. Bicycles are designed in strict colors.
Ghost
German brand founded in 1993 by a group of amateur athletes. Thanks to a progressive approach to the creation of bicycles, which is manifested in the special attention to design and the quality of the materials used. All bikes are finalized together with professional athletes from various disciplines. The brand produces 7 lines by class, each of which includes many models and has about 40 variations.
Ghost is famous for making bikes in all price ranges. Perhaps the highest cost will have full-suspension, and hard trails can be considered a universal and more budget option.
Which models are worth paying attention to
Ghost Kato 4
A mountain bike with a quality transmission, disc brakes and good shock absorption. Large wheels with durable tires make it easy to handle uneven terrain. The aluminum frame has good strength indicators, while the bike weighs a little. The bike has 27 speeds, making it easy to adapt the pace to any type of terrain.
Ghost Tacana 7
A model with all the necessary characteristics for cycling. Tacana 7 has 30 speeds, durable aluminum frame, disc brakes. Good cross-country ability is achieved due to the wheels of 29 diameters, which create a good rolling and perform well both on a flat surface and off-road. Saddle and handlebar adjustment allows you to choose the perfect fit for a comfortable ride.
Ghost Sona 2
A great option for beginner athletes. Sophisticated architecture, high-quality transmission and reliable braking system are the perfect combination for a comfortable ride. 24 speeds and a suspension fork make it easy to overcome off-road routes. Due to the high quality of assembly and materials, the bike will last a long time.
GIANT
One of the most popular bike brands based in Taiwan that has been supplying the market with its products for over 40 years. Initially, the company was engaged in assembling bikes from ready-made components and presented products under the Schwinn and Nishiki brands. GIANT makes almost every kind of bike and even Indoo Cycling home exercise bikes.
The brand is known for its thoughtful designs, quality materials and workmanship, attention to detail and good running properties.
Which models are worth paying attention to
GIANT Anthem
Professional full suspension bike. Great for cross-country riding, handles rough terrain with ease, and also feels comfortable on city roads. The aluminum frame is equipped with a front shock absorber with a stroke of 100-130 mm, as well as a rear one with a stroke of 90-110 mm. The wheels have a size of 27,5 or 29 inches, which in any case provides good cross-country ability. The set of speeds varies in values of 10, 11 or 12, and hydraulic disc brakes are responsible for braking.
GIANT Liv Bliss
Positioned as a female model. Suitable for city riding or light off-road riding. The bike is equipped with a suspension fork with a stroke of 75-100 mm. It has good cross-country ability due to the presence of 27,5-inch wheels with double rims. 21 speeds and disc brakes make the bike agile and reliable. Lightweight aluminum frame with a graceful curve makes the bike truly feminine.
GIANT Liv Flourish
City bike. The slender frame and basket typical of this type of bicycle also make the bike sophisticated and attractive, which is why it is often chosen by women. 28-inch wheels provide a good roll, and equipment with 21 or 24 speeds will help you choose the optimal pace of riding. V-type brakes are quite enough for maneuvers in urban conditions.
Kellys
A unique Slovak brand that quickly developed from a small bike rental company to a large manufacturer. Kellys offers many different bike models and modifications. The brand is distinguished by high build quality and reasonable price. You can also choose an entry-level bike or a professional bike specially designed for children or women. All bikes are equipped with high-quality professional equipment from famous American and Japanese manufacturers.
The company has its own test centers so that when developing new models, they are tested in the most natural environment.
Which models are worth paying attention to
Kelly’s Viper 50
A fairly versatile model, suitable for long walks even in mountainous areas. Great for both beginners and professionals. The bike is durable and reliable, as the frame is made of aluminum, and the weight of the bike is small, so it will be convenient for any group of users. Equipped with a suspension fork with a stroke of 100 mm, as well as the possibility of blocking. Hydraulic disc brakes, which are particularly reliable.
Kellys Bluff 10
The manufacturer offers a women’s bike. It has a rather delicate, stylish design. The price is low, but the bike has a complete high-quality body kit, typical for a more expensive segment: SR Suntour XCT suspension fork with 100 mm travel, Shimano Acera transmission. It is this combination of high-end equipment and the affordable cost of the bike that makes this model unique.
Kellys ARC 50
Popular road model. The aluminum frame has a rigid fork without shock absorption. 28″ wheels with double rims provide good rolling. The bike has mechanical disc brakes that do their job well on this type of bike. The transmission belongs to the semi-professional class. To select the optimal pace of movement, the bike is equipped with 22 speeds.
Merida
A world famous brand that began its existence as a bike parts store. The company manufactures various types of bicycles both by purpose and by value. The development of new models takes place in Germany, where all technical issues are corrected in the test centers and shortcomings are corrected. Assembly is done by hand in Taiwan.
The company has a lot of its own technologies, such as ShotGun (a special frame design that consists of a double downtube, which provides better resistance to torsional loads), Smooth Welding (smoothing welds), Internal Cable (carbon frame technology with internal wiring brake cables).
Which models are worth paying attention to
Merida Big.Nine 400
Stylish bike, made with all modern technologies. The aluminum frame with smooth seams and internal cable routing looks neat and beautiful. It belongs to the cross-country type, is very stable and mobile, so it performs well on any kind of terrain.
Merida Big.Seven 100-2x
The model attracts primarily with its appearance. Aluminum frame with unique geometry is light and strong. The cables are internally routed, so the bike looks modern and stylish. Quality equipment: hydraulic disc brakes, comfortable seat, 18 speeds, suspension fork with 100 mm travel and large wheels make riding easy and safe.
Merida Crossway 300
Stylish hybrid bike. Great for both cross-country trips and city streets. This is the best option for a modern person, as it combines an affordable price and high quality. High-quality assembly and equipment facilitate the maintenance process and ensure a long service life. The advantage of this model is the presence of 30 speeds, hydraulic disc brakes, 28-inch wheels and shock absorption.
Schwinn
This brand has a rich history dating back to 1895 in Chicago. The company quickly gained universal recognition, the bicycles of this manufacturer were chosen by many celebrities (Elvis Presley, Audrey Hepburn). A distinctive feature of the brand is the styling of bikes under retro design. So, Schwinn bikes fit perfectly into the famous TV series Stranger Things, which once again confirms the popularity of the company.
The brand has its own technologies: the patented Iso-Drive suspension for mountain bikes, the special geometry of the Super Sport road bikes with butting and hydroforming (providing lighter weight and improved frame architecture by changing the shape of the tubes).
Which models are worth paying attention to
Schwinn S1
City bike with a unique design. The bike is equipped with all modern technologies, but outwardly reminiscent of retro models. Designed for driving on city roads and flat ground. Thanks to the thoughtful architecture, the bike has the most comfortable and relaxed fit. It has a foot brake, 26-inch wheels, and a rigid fork.
Schwinn Mesa 1
Mountain bike for amateur athletes. Great for long trips both in urban areas and over rough terrain. Disc mechanical brakes are responsible for safety, which allow you to quickly respond and keep the situation under control. To choose the pace of movement depending on the conditions, the bike is equipped with 21 speeds, and a high-quality transmission ensures their fast and easy switching.
Schwinn Voyageur
The bike can be called a hybrid, as its design is close to the road, but the equipment is sporty. It has a high-quality Shimano transmission with 21 speeds. The bike has mechanical rim brakes, 28-inch wheels, a suspension fork and a lightweight aluminum frame. Thanks to this, this model will become a universal option for the modern user.
Specialized
An American brand that began its existence in 1974 with the production of bicycle components. Within a few years, the company grew rapidly and began to produce its own bikes, which are now famous all over the world. It is worth noting that Specialized released the first mass-produced mountain bike in history – Stumpjumper.
The company produces not only bikes, but also equipment, components and equipment. The production uses a unique Body Geometry technology, which takes into account the peculiarities of the body position and biomechanical requirements when riding. This allows you to create bikes that are safe and comfortable to ride.
Which models are worth paying attention to
Specialized Epic
This is a bike for both experienced athletes and amateurs. An important component is a hybrid frame made of carbon and aluminum, which is characterized by increased strength. The bike is equipped with a suspension fork with a stroke of 100 mm and is two-suspension. Great for cross country riding. The bike has hydraulic disc brakes and professional-grade Shimano Deore XT and Sram X.0 attachments.
Specialized Myka FSR Elite
A bike with a sleek and light frame is ideal for women. Despite the external sophistication, the bike is great for riding on difficult trails. The model is equipped with professional-grade equipment and high-quality transmission. The bike has wheels with double rims of 26 diameters, as well as reliable disc brakes. Responsible for cross-country suspension air-spring fork and 9 speeds.
Specialized Tarmac
The unique high modulus carbon fiber frame is phenomenal in terms of strength and lightness. S-Works FACT carbon fork for maximum rigidity. This road bike model is equipped with electronic shift knobs, which are the benchmark.
STEEL
This brand owned by Velomotors deserves attention. STELS has a wide range of models and is very popular in our country. At the same time, this is a completely production from development to assembly.
All bikes have quality handling, stylish looks and affordable prices. Basically, bikes are aimed at amateurs, people who lead an active lifestyle and prefer cycling.
Which models are worth paying attention to
This is a bicycle with a simple steel frame, available in several versions. High-quality shock absorption is provided for rough terrain, and 26-inch wheels with double rims provide good flotation. 21 speeds and disc brakes make the ride easy and comfortable.
Stylish and elegant city bike. The bike is not only beautiful, but also durable, as the frame is made of stainless steel. 28″ wheels provide good flotation and rolling. Atypical for a city bike is the presence of speeds, which are 7 here. Walking front and rear brakes are responsible for safety.
STELS Cross 130 MD Lady 28 V010
Bright and spectacular hybrid bike, which is perfect for women due to the beveled frame. The bike is light and reliable, as the frame is made of aluminum. The bike is equipped with 21 speeds, a suspension fork with 63 mm travel, 28-inch wheels and mechanical disc brakes.
Trek
An American company founded in 1976 by a bike shop owner. Products of this brand are supplied to more than 90 countries and are widely known for their high quality. It is worth noting that the company sponsors several professional sports teams (for example, Trek-Segafredo), formed a professional mountain bike team with Volkswagen, and later created the Volkswagen Jetta Trek, a car equipped with mountain bike racks, is engaged in charitable activities, and also organizes various bike tours.
Trek is constantly refining its models, creating new designs, and improving technology.
Which models are worth paying attention to
Trek Marlin
A variant for recreational athletes that is suitable for driving on a flat road or light rough terrain. The model has many modifications, thanks to which, you can choose the perfect combination for you. The diameter of the wheels is unchanged – 29 inches, but the transmission can have 21, 24 or 27 speeds. Disc brakes can be hydraulic or mechanical, and the suspension fork has a travel of 75 to 100 mm.
Trek Superfly
A mid-range bike suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. The robust aluminum frame is equipped with a suspension fork with 50 or 90 mm travel, depending on the modification. The wheel size varies in 20, 21, 24 and 26 inches, the number of speeds is 6, 11 or 21. Disc brakes are highly reliable and durable. Thus, the model is universal, since you can choose the option that suits you.
Trek Slash
It is considered a professional option for experienced athletes. Most often used in such disciplines as: “all mountain”, “enduro” and “downhill”, but also shows itself perfectly in amateur use. In some variations of the model, the frame is made of carbon, in others it is made of aluminum. The front suspension fork has 160mm travel and the rear 150mm. Possesses 11 – or 12-speed system. 29-inch wheels are responsible for excellent cross-country ability.
Popular questions and answers
Answered frequently asked questions from KP readers Konstantin Kalinov, Head of Vehicle Rental Service Raddy.com.
How to choose a reliable bike manufacturer?
If you plan to perform tricks or ride cross-country, pay attention to bicycles of foreign brands, the cost of which starts from 40 thousand rubles. These bikes are equipped with the most reliable parts.
If necessary, they can be supplemented with new components, giving unlimited possibilities. The cost of high-quality professional bicycles starts from 110 thousand rubles.
What should be considered when buying a bike from an unknown manufacturer?
Damage not caused by the user is not covered by the warranty. If the bike was damaged due to incorrect actions of the buyer, it is not subject to warranty repair. Also, a thing cannot be replaced if it has signs of intentional mechanical impacts. The warranty does not cover consumable items. Some manufacturers offer replacements for broken frames even in cases that are not covered under warranty.
What should be included in a new bike warranty?
— frame;
– suspension forks;
– attachments;
— bearings and threaded connections.
It is worth considering that the warranty service of bicycles is carried out by specialized authorized service centers of manufacturing companies that have the appropriate authority to do so.