As the name suggests, these bikes are designed for any type of mountainous terrain. The best all-mountain mountain bikes have been selected in the rating, with the help of which you can overcome difficult routes and explore remote corners of the planet. Bicycles were chosen based on their price and quality, which guarantees the most profitable investment of your money.

Here you can find good models of all mountain bikes of the initial level and more affordable models for a small price, which will be more than enough not only for cycling with friends at the weekend, but also for longer trips to complex rugged terrain. We hope that in this list you can find all-mountain bike, which will fully satisfy your needs and will not harm your wallet.

We have selected the five best bikes available on the market, which should greatly facilitate the selection of all-mountain bikes. Be sure to take a test ride and ride the bike of your choice before you buy it!

The best all-mountain mountain bike Specialized Enduro Comp 29

Specialized Enduro Comp 29 deservedly ranks first in the ranking. If you want to buy a mountain all-mountain bike that would behave like a normal 26″ mountain bike, but had the passability of a miner, then this bike is exactly what you need. The Enduro series was introduced by Specialized in 1999 and has been improved since then. Enduro Comp 29 has a number of innovative design features that give the bike its remarkable characteristics: smooth ride, good grip and reeling power. It wasn’t easy to create such a bike design. Specialized in conjunction with SRAM has released a brand new front speed selector. The famous short lower feathers of the rear triangle were retained without sacrificing the bike’s excellent geometry.

Raring: 5/5

All-mountain bike Giant Reign 2

The basis of the magnificent all-mountain bike Giant Reign 2 is the heavy-duty aluminum frame Aluxx. The bike easily copes with the most difficult terrain. The SRAM transmission provides the required power when needed and the Avid Elixir 1 disc brakes guarantee sufficient braking power in all conditions. The RockShox Revelation RL Solo Air with 150 mm stroke and the RockShox Monarch RL High Volume can handle any obstacles on the road. If you buy a Giant Reign bike, riding a bike will only bring positive emotions.

Rating: 4,75/5

All-mountain bike Cannondale Jekyll MX

Cannondale Jekyll MX is a bit like the Hyde model, although they have almost nothing in common. Built on a sturdy and lightweight aluminium SmartFormed frame, the bike is equipped with SRAM and Shimano components that ensure smooth riding and easy gear shifting. The magnificent bike suspension consists of a FOX 36 Float R front fork with 160 mm stroke and a FOX DYAD rear shock absorber which can be adjusted with just one click. Be sure to take a test drive before you buy a Cannondale Jekyll MX. You should love this mountain bike!

Rating: 4.5 / 5

All-mountain bike Trek Slash 7

The Trek Slash series of bikes is designed for long rides on rough terrain. Slash 7 is the basic model of this series. It is an entry-level all-mountain bike based on the reliable Alpha Platinum frame and the quality SRAM transmission. If you plan to take part in enduro races and other races on the most difficult tracks, you better pay attention to more expensive models in this ranking. But if you’re just starting to do enduro racing and you’re not going to conquer too difficult routes, then Trek Slash 7 can be considered as a good starting option.

Score: 4,25 / 5

All-mountain bike Kona Tanuki

Kona Tanuki is the rational choice for the economical cyclist who needs the versatility of an all-mountain bike and does not want to overpay. The high durability of the bike is ensured by the batted aluminium frame of the Kona Race Light 6069. Kona Tanuki is equipped with a Shimano Deore / Acera transmission. The model is available in seven sizes, so it will fit almost every cyclist. If you’re an active single-track, downhill and apehill cyclist, be sure to check out this bike. Kona Tanuki is ideal, especially if you choose your first two-pendant mountain bike.

Score: 4/5.

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Only cheap mountain bikes are selected here, which of course are not intended for participation in complex races along with more expensive analogues, but nevertheless they can become a good starting point. In most cases, the quality of the bike corresponds to the price that is asked for it.

If you want to buy a mountain bike for downhill or endurance racing, you need to choose from the models that are designed to participate in these disciplines. But if you are not going to do cycling professionally and you need a bicycle to ride around the city or off-road, then any model from this list will meet these requirements.

However, do not chase the cheapness – a good bike will never cost too cheap. Just try to choose a bike with the best value for money. It is on this principle and selected bikes in this list.

The best inexpensive mountain bike Specialized Hardrock 26

You can rest assured of the reliability of Specialized Hardrock 26, as it is based on a quality battened frame made of aluminum alloy. The SR Suntour M3020 shock-absorbing fork with a 75 mm stroke handles vibration and road jolting well. This bike is available with both disc and V-Brake brakes. For a model with V-Brake brakes you need to pay $440, and a model with disc brakes will cost you about $520. On Specialized Hardrock 26 it is equally comfortable to move, both on a city, and on impassability.

Rating: 5/5

Inexpensive mountain bike Raleigh Talus 3.0

The Raleigh Talus 3.0 is equipped with a sturdy Atomic 13 aluminium frame, an SR Suntour XCT fork with 80 mm stroke, reliable Weinmann XC260 double wall rims and an entry-level 21-speed Shimano transmission. It is well suited for climbing uphill, off-road driving and even for simple downhill trails. The model is available in four different versions, as well as in a female version called Eva. Talus 3.0 is ideal for cyclists who need an entry-level mountain bike at a reasonable price.

Rating: 4,75/5

Cheap mountain bike Giant Revel 1

The Giant Revel 1 is equipped with SRAM mantles, a SRAM X4 driver and a Shimano M310 front derailleur. Comfort and stability are ensured by the lightweight ALUXX aluminium frame and the shock-absorbing fork with 100 mm stroke. Tektro Novella mechanical disc brakes guarantee sufficient braking power in critical situations. This bike can handle most difficult terrain, but keep in mind that this inexpensive model can never outperform its more expensive counterparts.

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Budget mountain bike Jamis Trail X2

The cost of Jamis Trail X2 does not exceed 500 dollars, making it one of the most inexpensive mountain bikes in this list. The upper tube has a significant slope. This makes it easy to get on and off the bike, which should be appreciated by novice cyclists. In addition, this bike requires a more vertical fit, which increases the level of comfort while riding. Trail X3 is equipped with a 21-speed transmission Shimano and mechanical disc brakes Tektro, which provide good braking power.

Rating: 4,25/5

Inexpensive women’s mountain bike Schwinn Ridge AL

The Schwinn Ridge AL women’s mountain bike, a stylish entry-level model, completes the list. Shock-absorbing fork Suntour copes well with blows. Ridge AL assumes vertical landing at driving. The low weight of the bike is also ensured by the lightweight aluminium frame. If you want to buy an entry-level mountain bike on which you can ride with pleasure, pay attention to this model.

Rating: 4/5

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Dahon Mu Uno is a simple and lightweight folding bicycle.

What I really like about the Dahon Mu Uno folding bike is that I don’t focus on the bike, but on the process of riding. With this reliable bike, there was nothing to worry about and I could just ride while enjoying the scenery. I think riding a single-speed bike is very relaxing, as there’s no need to constantly change gears.

Of course, you can say that Mu Uno isn’t so good for long-distance riding. It’s true that one transmission makes it quite difficult to ride on hilly terrain, but in the end this folding bike is not a tourist bike – it’s positioned as a simple and easy ride bike. It is not designed to move from one point to another, but simply to walk with a maximum of positive emotions.

Also folding bike Mu Uno I like for its low weight. It is very easy to fold and lift on stairways. Given the weight of 10 kg, it is really worth the money spent on it. The cost of most lightweight folding bikes, whose weight is approaching 9 kg, is from $ 1000 and above. In my opinion, this makes the Mu Uno folding bicycle from Dahon an ideal choice for people who want to buy an easy-to-operate portable folding bicycle.

Overall Mu Uno is a really interesting Dahon folding bike. I had a lot of fun riding this bike, and I felt like I was a child again. This folding single-speed bike really makes me feel good to ride.

The post Dahon Mu Uno 2013: fast and lightweight folding bicycle review appeared first on Bicycle test reviews.

Now it is possible to assert with full confidence that the worst and the best folding bikes mainly differ only by the weight. Lightweight folding bikes will always be in the price, because, unlike conventional folding bikes are transported by train, train, car, public transport, etc.

If you’re a big, muscular man, you won’t understand why bicycle weight is so important. If it is not difficult for you to ride around the city with a heavy bike or constantly shoving it and take it out of the trunk of the car, then you can really not pay such attention to the weight of the folding bike and save not one hundred dollars. But for most of the average cyclists still need to buy light folding bikes.

Riding a Dahon Mu P8 folding bicycle is very pleasant and convenient because of its low weight. While riding on the highway, you’ll also like a good roll and fast gear shifting.

Product description

The Dahon Mu P8 is a really great folding bike. It is one of the most versatile and popular folding bikes. It’s really lightweight and sturdy, stylish enough to attract attention wherever you go with it. It has excellent functionality, reasonable price. It fully complies with the three Dahon rules: light weight, sturdy construction and high speed. The Dahon Mu P8 is light enough to be lifted up a ladder, compact enough to be carried in the normal trunk of a car. Transmissions change very quickly. Its design ensures that it cannot be destroyed. Dahon Compensation and Schwalbe Racer tires are very light and fast. The adjustable Radius Telescope steering pin allows you to adjust your bike to your specific cyclist. Dahon provides a five-year warranty on the steering pin, bike frame and rigid forks.

Specifications for the Dahon MuP8 folding bike

• Eight gears
• Cloudy white and obsidian color
• Small size when folded: 11.7″ x 30.8″ x 25.7″ (30 × 79 × 66 cm)
• Folding time 15 seconds
• Light weight: 11.2 kg
• Best suited for cyclists with a height of 142 – 193 cm
• Maximum weight of a cyclist is 105 kg

The advantages of the Dahon MuP8 folding bike

• Thanks to its low weight, it is the most suitable folding bike to carry on stairs; it is small enough to be stored in any corner of the house
• Fast and reliable switches
• Very easy and quick to fold
• Excellent appearance
• The bike is equipped with a front, rear trunk and even a bicycle bike with a bicycle
• After the purchase, he’s easily going to

Shortcomings in the Dahon MuP8 folding bike:

• If you do not turn the pedals correctly during the trip, your shoes may touch the ground
• Bad irregularities, potholes and curbs go badly
• Not suitable for cyclists who like to ride at high speed

Conclusion

A Dahon Mu P8 bike is worth every dollar spent on it. You’ll love this bike for its performance and quality – it’s perfect for both riding and transporting.

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The Dahon Espresso folding bike is positioned by Dahon as a city bike for adventure. It’s not a mountain bike, though with its wide tires and 21st gear, it’s like a mountain bike. It is actually a folding hybrid bicycle. The latest Espresso model is the Dahon Espresso 2012, available in small, medium and large frame sizes. It has a rigid aluminium frame and ProMax V aluminium brakes. The strengths of the Dahon Espresso are the following

Convenient vertical fit

Wings and trunk can be fitted
Thanks to the Dahon’s handlebar stem, it’s easy to adjust the steering distance and height of the handlebar to achieve a perfect fit
The bike folds up in 10 seconds
The bike fits easily in the trunk of your car, so you don’t need to buy a car trunk to carry your bike
Thanks to the special steering stem, the Dahon Espresso can be folded with minimal effort. The front derailer, the Microshift operating unit, is located on the triple drive sprocket. At the rear is the Shimano Altus derailer and the 7-speed Shimano cassette with 14 to 28 teeth. The total weight of the bicycle is 13.86 kg, which is quite low, given the size of the wheels 26 inches.

There is one feature that should not be forgotten – when folded, it is not as compact as a folding Brompton bike. So if you want to travel by train, but you can’t carry your bike on the train, you won’t be able to disguise it as normal luggage. It will also be difficult to carry on a crowded train.

Dahon folding bikes have a good value for money. The cost of Dahon Espresso is about 460 dollars. Folding bicycles with big wheels are not afraid of uneven roads and they are more pleasant to ride. Company Dahon has let out some new models of the folding bicycles surpassing on many parametres Dahon Espresso. But if you want to buy one of these models and find it for $460, you can count on your luck.

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SON-XS front hub dynamo

But it is only in recent years that effective dynamo sleeves have become available. Currently, the most popular dynamo sleeves are manufactured in Germany by Schmidt Maschinenbau and in Singapore by Shimano. At the same time, together with the improvement of the dynamo sleeves, the loss of bottle dynamo machines has been reduced thanks to modern technology. It was reported that the Lightspin bottle dynamo machine is more efficient per dynamo sleeve, also considering that there is no resistance when the bottle dynamo is turned off. However, there is still the problem of wet tire rollers slipping off.

Bike dynamo sleeve testing technique

We chose the most popular models of dynamo bushings and bottle generator Lightspin, which were tested in Tuebingen in Germany on test equipment by Schmidt Maschinenbau.

Three completely new generators from the standard production cycle were taken for testing and tested within 15 minutes. Then their resistance was measured without load and with a Schmidt E6 headlight (Philips HPR64 3W 6V lamp). After these preliminary tests, the lamps of the same model with higher efficiency/losses were not taken into account as not suitable, and the “average lamps” were tested in more detail.

Tested models of bike dynamo sleeves and bottle dynamo machines

Dynosys Lightspin (2004 model, discontinued): bottle dynamo machine; cost $120.7; weight 280 g.

Shimano HB-NX32 (2004): dynamo sleeve; cost $50; weight 729 g

Shimano DH-3N30 (2004): dynamo sleeve; cost approximately $60; weight 872 g.

Shimano DH-3N70 (2004): dynamo sleeve; cost $100; weight 667 g (replaced by model DH-3N71).

Shimano DH-3N71 (2005): hub dynamo, cost $90; weight 675 g.

Schmidt Maschinenbau SON28 (2005): dynamo sleeve; cost $209; weight 575 g.

Schmidt Maschinenbau SON20 (2005): hub dynamo, designed for small bicycles with small wheels, but used in the test with 700C wheels; cost $209; weight 575 g.

Capacity of bike dynamo sleeves and bottle dynamo machine

All the generators tested, except for the SON20, provided almost full power of light at a speed of 10 km/h. At low speed, the Shimano DH3N71 dynamo sleeve model was the winner because it produced more power and therefore brighter light. The SON20, which was used with the 700C wheel for which it was not designed, produced the least amount of energy at low speed. At 20 km/h, all the generators tested produced at least 6 volts of voltage, which is required for a standard bike headlight at its full brightness.

Power loss on the hub bike dynamo with the headlamp on

At the switched on light resistance of the majority of generators increases – except for model Shimano HB-NX32 which resistance becomes less at high speed at the switched on light.

Model Shimano DH-3N30 has better indicators in comparison with model HBNX32/ Resistance is less at any speed – actually it is even less, than at more expensive model DH-3N71. Model DH-3N71 did not live up to its advertising, as the company Shimano has announced an increase in efficiency by 30% and more (and a decrease in resistance by 70%, when the light is off) compared to its predecessor, which could with this bushing to come off far ahead of the model SON. In contrast, the new DH-3N71 dynamo sleeve model has a slightly higher resistance at any speed than its predecessor, the DH-3N70.

As a whole model SON28 still is the most effective dynamo sleeve, but the model of dynamo sleeve Shimano DH-3N30 not much behind it. At very high speed it requires less energy. The greatest advantage of model SON20 over model SON28 is shown on average and big speed.

Resistance of bike dynamo-bushings at idling speed

When the light is off, the Lightspin model has shown minimal loss: when the generator is not in contact with the wheel, only the front bushing creates resistance. The Shimano HB-NX32 model creates significant resistance, especially at high speed, and is really not suitable for racing bikes. On the other hand, the DH-3N30 has a significantly improved resistance and can compete with the more expensive DH-3N30 dynamo sleeves.

The new Shimano DH-3N71 has a slightly higher resistance than its predecessor, the DH-3N70. At idling speed, the SON28 model still generates much less resistance than other hub dynamos. As expected, the losses of the SON20 model with the wheel 700C even lower, but the price of weaker light at night at low speed.

Connect one or two headlights to the hub bike dynamo?

At speeds above 25 km, any hub dynamo can be used to power the two headlamps in series. Many long-distance cyclists use two headlamps. If two headlights can provide good lighting, additional weight and resistance are not as important. The single E6 headlamp provided sufficient lighting even on a tandem during the Paris-Brest-Paris bike marathon at 70 km/h on unfamiliar, challenging roads. Those who do decide to install two headlamps can benefit slightly from the lower resistance SON20 hub dynamo.

The use of small wheel hub bike dynamo sleeves with large wheels

Most of the bike headlamps are designed in accordance with German laws, which require a power of 0.75 watts at a speed of 5 km / h and 2.7 watts at a speed of 15 km / h. These laws are designed for German cyclists travelling short distances at low speeds, rather than for avid riders. Many cyclists rarely travel at speeds below 15 km/h, so they may decide that they do not need full lighting at speeds below 15 km/h.

Using the SON20 with 700C or 650B wheels instead of the 20″ wheels it was designed for reduces power output but also reduces resistance. The large wheel rotates more slowly than the 20″ wheel for which the generator was designed.

Test results have shown that precious energy can be saved in this way. For four years I used the SON20 hub dynamo model with 700C and 650B wheels. On very steep hills, the light started to shake. But at low speed, I didn’t need that much light to see the road. For those who ride in the city on busy roads, the SON28 may be preferable because even at low speed the bike remains visible to other vehicles.

Since the end of 2005, the specialized model SON-XS (for folding bikes with narrow forks) has been available for a standard 100 mm dropout. Although the efficiency of this model is about 2% lower than that of the SON20, it weighs 179 grams less per SON20, which weighs 398 grams. However, the narrower flange spacing (40mm instead of 58mm for a standard SON) and the aluminum alloy axle (instead of stainless steel) eventually weaken the front wheel and make it unsuitable for hard riding.

Test results for bike dynamo sleeves and bottle dynamo machine

The light generated by the dynamo sleeves is a reliable source of energy in most cases. Additional resistance has been measured and is undoubtedly overrated. It is most important (as a percentage of output power) at low speed. At high speeds and on uphill gradients, there is little additional resistance compared to the total power required for cycling.

SON28

If you are not limited in money, the SON28 hub dynamo is the best choice for most cyclists. It combines high efficiency and quality construction. Since 2002, the SON dynamo sleeve models have included a pressure compensation seal that prevents problems with the bike in rainy cold weather. Without a special seal, the relatively large internal air volume of the dynamo sleeve is compressed and thus contributes to the penetration of moisture.

Shimano DH-3N71

Dynamic bushing Shimano DH-3N71 is a good choice, but in comparison with its predecessor DH-3N70 it has slightly worse performance. Both models are much heavier and less efficient than the SON dynamo sleeves. The cheaper model DH-3N30 offers better performance, but weighs 200 grams more, because it has lower quality bearings and seals, so that a higher price for the Shimano dynamo sleeve is justified. The expected service life of bearing cones in inexpensive Shimano dynamo sleeves (HB-NX32, DH-3N30) is about 5000 km. It says that the model DH-3N30 offers surprisingly good performance at its price.

Lightspin

If it weren’t for the slippage problems in wet weather, the Lightspin could be a good alternative to the hub dynamo. Its low weight (even including the weight of the front hub mount) and lack of resistance during the day attract cyclists who rarely ride in the dark. When the lights on the bike turn on, the resistance of the Lightspin increases to a value greater than that of the SON28 and modern Shimano hub dynamo. It is difficult to achieve and maintain the correct attachment of bottle generators, so that the resistance can vary greatly during its operation.

For cyclists participating in various competitions, the use of the SON20 model or the surprisingly light SON-XS with a large rim reduces resistance both during the day and at night. Especially at speeds between 25 and 35 km/h. Their drawbacks include reduced luminous flux at low speeds.

Results table

How harder is it to pedal on a bicycle with a dynamo sleeve? Compared to a bike without a hub dynamo, the table shows the additional power required to maintain the same speed, as well as the reduction of speed at the same speed on a flat road. Only turning on the night resistance (light on) at low and medium speeds will slow down the rider significantly. At high speeds, the added resistance (light on) is less significant. On ascents, the resistance of the hub dynamo as a percentage of the total resistance is even lower. For example, a 5% slope of 10 km/hour requires about 140 W. In this case, the 3.3 watts consumed by SON28 (light on) slows down the cyclist by only 0.2 km/h.

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The Mango WIND PRO visor helmet is suitable for all windfree cycling, ski and even snowboard disciplines. The RUN SYSTEM allows the helmet to be adjusted in size to provide maximum comfort and safety.

All Mango helmets are made exclusively in Italy. This is the reason for such a comfortable fit.

Technologies

• HARD SHELL technology for more safety.
• Orange visor for continuous good visibility.
• 4 Ventilation openings.
• Detachable ear protection.
• RUN SYSTEM for precise size adjustment.
• Easy buckling due to CLOCK BUCKLE.

Gallery

Buy

You can buy this full-protection helmet for £ 76.99:
http://www.sportisimo.co.uk/mango/wind-pro/118049/

The post Windfree cycling: Mango WIND PRO review appeared first on Bicycle test reviews.

Varieties of bicycle helmets

In fact, the helmets can be divided into two categories: MTB – mountain bike helmets and highway helmets (Road). MTB helmets are divided into two types, depending on the discipline: cross-country (XC, CC) and extreme orientation – the so-called “kettles” and full face (Full face). There are also two types of highways: the first one is of a classic type (very similar to a QC) and the second one is a Time trial helmet.

MTB

Cross-country helmet (XC)

It’s not exactly a scientific name, but I don’t know what else to call it. This is the most common type of bicycle helmets. Are made, as a rule, from the special foamy material covered from above by thin smooth plastic with the beautiful stripes and drawings put on it. Most of these helmets have a special visor, designed to protect against dust, splashes and sunlight. Some models have a removable visor.

Mosquito netting also occurs quite often and the thing is very useful. After all, it’s very unpleasant to go at high speed and feel like you have someone in your head is digging Good ventilation of the helmet – it’s very important, especially in the heat of summer. The helmet is secured to the head by means of a strap and a special mechanism on the back of the head, which serves for optimal adjustment of the helmet to the size of the head.

MTB bicycle helmets

Variety of MTB bicycle helmet of extreme orientation. “Woks are usually used in such disciplines as street, dirt, bmx, etc. It is made as well as cross-country from foam material and covered with plastic, but in this case it is thicker and more durable. The ventilation holes on the helmet are much smaller and usually very small. They usually do not have an adjustment mechanism (only a strap), so the size must be selected accurately and the helmet must sit tight.

Full face – windfree cycling helmet

MTB bicycle helmet for such extreme disciplines as: Freeride, Downhill, biker-cross (4x), etc. Provides complete protection for the rider’s head. These disciplines involve very complex and technical routes, with a lot of big stones, trees, logs. At the same time, all this takes place at a very high speed, so the protection should be appropriate. It is really the best choice for trully windfree cycling, as far as this type of helmets covers whole head.

Highway bicycle helmets

Classic highway helmet

These helmets are very similar to cross-country helmets, but the visor is rare for them. There is no mosquito netting, but there may be more ventilation holes to provide better ventilation during long, high-speed trips on the heated asphalt. Many athletes use helmets on the highway races and marathons cross country, because the strength of they are not inferior to the CC MTB, it looks very airy and spectacular.

Time trial helmet

On sale are quite rare, because very highly specialized and used exclusively in races with separate start. The helmet has a characteristic droplet-shaped look and maximum aerodynamic shape for the least resistance to air flow.

Choice of bicycle helmet

Above, we briefly examined the most common types of bicycle helmets. Now let’s talk about which helmet to choose and what to look for. Since the article is written for beginners, we will choose the most common universal helmet “for every day”, i.e. for everything. Immediately raise questions: where to buy, which company to choose, how much it costs, and what to pay attention to when buying? So, in order.

Where to buy?

Buy a helmet should be in a sports, and better specialized bicycle shop. Do not even think about going and buy a helmet in the nearest hypermarket like Okay, Auchan, etc., presented there copies are made disgusting, look terrible, and at the price, at times, approaching the normal models.

Which firm to choose?

Going to the store for a helmet, you should keep in mind a list of some well-known manufacturers, whose products should be guided by:

• Giro
• Bell
• Met
• BBB
• UVEX
• Lazer
• Casco
• Rudy Project
• Limar

This is not a complete list of manufacturers of bicycle helmets, but perhaps these are the most famous and proven best practices. If you have forgotten any of the known, please add in the comments. Almost all models of these helmets meet the safety standards, which should be indicated by the sticker “CPSC or EN 1078” on the inside.

How much does it cost?

The most usual, but already quite decent cross-country bicycle helmet can be bought approximately for $15-$50. For $100 probably will be more beautiful, more comfortable. And for $200 and above – even top racing helmet models.

What to pay attention to?

It is very important to choose the optimal size of the helmet. If it hangs on his head, the fall will be of little use to him, also it’s no good for windfree cycling, as long as wind gets in gaps.

You also need to take into account that in cool weather you want to wear a bandana under it, and in winter, and a thicker and more impenetrable helmet. Thanks to the adjustment wheel on the back of the head (this is how the adjustment system is implemented on most models), it is quite possible to choose a universal helmet for all occasions – quite realistic. But each helmet has its own range of adjustments, so be careful. Usually the size range is indicated on the sticker on the inside. So first try on the helmet carefully and make sure that there is a margin of adjustment in both directions.

Someone likes helmets with a visor, others do not. Personally, I took it off right away and never wore it again. Firstly, I wasn’t comfortable with it, and secondly (in my opinion) it spoils the look of the helmet.

A masked net is a very useful thing, but it is not present on all models of helmets. Especially useful when riding on a hot summer day on the field roads, when there are clouds of gadflies circling around. Also not superfluous grid will be and when driving on the evening highway, as a rule at this time there are flocks of gnats. My helmet is not netted, so in such cases I prefer to tie a bandana under it.

Conclusion

When choosing a bicycle helmet, first of all, we look at its appearance. And this is important. After all, not all the same as you look from the outside. A cyclist dressed in a beautiful cycling uniform, and so attracts the attention of others. But the helmet, perhaps, is one of the main elements here. So when choosing, don’t forget about it

Personally, I’ve been wearing a Bell X-Ray helmet since 2005. Without a visor, it looks like a normal XC racing helmet or helmet. In summer, I tighten the adjustment wheel to the stop and the helmet sits as if it were inged, and in cold weather. It is fitted with a pretty tight fleece balaclava with a Windblock, which makes this helmet perfect for windfree cycling.

A little video about choosing a bicycle helmet:

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Since 1982, Dahon has been a world leader in the manufacture of folding bicycles. Its philosophy is to promote the use of sustainable transport in everyday life. The Dahon Matrix folding bike in question is positioned as a city bike. Therefore, the construction of this bike was greatly influenced by the structure of the mountain bike. The only difference is that the components and tyres are designed for urban conditions.

The bike is folded in half by simply moving the lever. Therefore, it can be easily stored in a closet or on a stand. It can fit a place, where a medium sized bike can’t. By unscrewing two more screws on the NVO stem, you can disconnect the handlebar with the removal. It reduces the size of the bike
further. It makes possible to store it in the trunk of a small family car and does not need to disconnect the wheels. This is a great advantage for people who often carry bicycles in cars and stop at public parking lots. There is no need to worry about the safety of bicycles installed on the trunks of bicycles.

Specifications for the Dahon Matrix folding bike

The Matrix frame is designed by Voodoo bicycle designer Joe Murray. The frame is made of aluminum alloy series 7005. Has a double batting, forged mesh hooks and double locking mechanism. As a result, the Dahon Matrix frame is as strong as a standard double rhombic frame.

A Suntour NEX shock-absorbing fork is installed at the front, with spiral springs and hydraulic shock-absorbing, preload adjustment and lockout. The fork is effective enough, but still does not cope well with the passage of pits at high speed and overcoming kerbs. This bike is not designed for mountain riding, and it does its job well within the city limits.

Dahon Matrix bike switch

The steering is represented by the Ritchey straight-arm aluminium steering wheel and NVO stem with patented InfiniteAdjust technology. The NVO stem is of particular interest – it has a cut-out that allows for quick removal and installation of the stem, without the need to orient it towards the tyres. Dahon has equipped the Matrix with an extremely long steering wheel with horns. It is certainly very convenient, but on a city bicycle will look inappropriate, as in the conditions of dense city traffic the big comfortable steering wheel is not too convenient. It would also be easier to store a bike with a shorter steering wheel when folded. The straight-lead horns look completely unnecessary.

Dahon Matrix folding mechanism

The bike is equipped with a reliable brake and SRAM transmission – mantles and a SRAM 3.0 front derailleur, SRAM SX4 rear derailleur. Thanks to this equipment, gears can be shifted very easily. The sufficient cable length reduces maintenance and keeps the bike clean and tidy when folded. The brake mechanism is ensured by the Avid BB5 disc brakes and the Avid FR-5 brake levers. Pedal rotation is provided by an aluminum platform with Truvative IsoFlow rods. 48/38/28 tooth drive sprocket with plastic chain protection, which is necessary to ensure that the chain does not soil the clothes. The cassette has 11 to 32 teeth. It matches the purpose of the bike – to move quickly through the city’s jungle.

A big surprise in this bike is the saddle SDG BelAir FX with patented technology I-Beam. It is attached to the aluminum seatpost SDG I Beam Comp. The riding position and angle of inclination of the bicycle saddle can be easily adjusted with a 6 mm hexagonal wrench. This layout reduces the overall weight of the bike compared to the individual saddle and seatpost. Although the saddle feels rigid, it is extremely comfortable.

The folding bicycle is equipped with a Formula Disc bushing, 14G stainless steel spokes, WTB SX24 rims and 1.5 inch Continental Sport Contact. Continental Sport Contact tires provide low rolling resistance, good bike reeling and very good grip at the same time.

Dahon Matrix testing

With the classic geometry and saddle of a mountain bike, you will initially feel like you’re on a normal mountain bike with slices. Most cyclists will feel at ease even if they ride a mountain bike in a wide, comfortable steering wheel. However, thanks to the higher transmission ratios, the Dahon Matrix bike is able to reach higher speeds than a normal mountain bike on a flat road and downhill. But on the hills, the weight of the bike is immediately noticeable. Thanks to its low gears it is still easy to move around the city. Thanks to the Suntour fork, the bike is quite comfortable on unpaved roads, especially if it is pre-set for minimum load. The frame of the Dahon Matrix bike is extremely sturdy – no vibration or rattling is noticeable. The SRAM transmission guarantees a confident gear shift, although not too fast.

A slight sagging of the brake cable was detected and a slight adjustment was required. Disc brakes provide excellent braking power and give the bike a stylish look.

Conclusion

So who is the bicycle in question designed for? The first thing to do is to buy a Dahon Matrix folding bicycle for people who get to work on a bicycle, but are unable to store a full-size bicycle next to their desk or in a utility room. Now the owners of this bike can ride it directly to work, pack it in a bag and store it in their office. If you like to drive your car for picnics in crowded places, but you hate to take your bicycle off and put it on a special bicycle rack, you should also take a closer look at the bicycle.

Unlike the Dahon D7 HG folding bicycle with Shimano Nexus 7 planetary bushings, this is a full-size bike that is as good as a normal mountain bike or cyclo-cross bike. Thanks to its 24 speeds and shock-absorbing fork, it can be ridden off-road at high speed. The high cost of gasoline, taxes, traffic jams and hypodynamy forces any sensible person to look for ways to use the bike as their main means of transportation. And this full-fledged folding bicycle with large wheels can be an effective alternative for your daily commute to work.

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If you came to the store to buy a good practical folding bicycle with a planetary hub and trunk, the model Dahon Vitesse D3 is a worthy choice in its class. It cannot break speed records, boast a folding mechanism and general specifications, but it is a good enough bike that will serve you for years. Until now, it was impossible to buy a folding bike with similar characteristics at a price of 460 dollars. On a parity of the price and quality to it is not equal to it.

If you came to the store to buy a good practical folding bicycle with a planetary hub and trunk, the model Dahon Vitesse D3 is a worthy choice in its class. It cannot break speed records, boast a folding mechanism and general specifications, but it is a good enough bike that will serve you for years. Until now, it was impossible to buy a folding bike with similar characteristics at a price of 460 dollars. On a parity of the price and quality to it is not equal to it.

In the cycling industry, the company Dahon occupies the same place as Ford in the automotive industry – a large range of models and huge sales around the world. Folding bicycles Dahon do not concern bicycles of a super class are bicycles for usual people. They are not as compact as Brompton, riding them is not as extreme as riding them on Friday bikes, but they have an excellent value for money. The cost of Dahon Vitesse bikes continues to fall. Thanks to a new factory in China, Dahon has been able to reduce prices in recent years. They used to cost more in the European market than in the world market, but now the prices are the same all over the world.

The Dahon Vitesse folding bicycle series

The Dahon Vitesse series really resembles a Ford Focus car – quite economical, quite fast and extremely practical. In many ways, this bike is the successor of the immortal model Dawes Kingpin, the first folding bike with 20-inch wheels, from which a number of unsuccessful folding bikes were made. In the 1980s, they significantly damaged the reputation of folding bikes. This was indeed a failure, but since then there have been significant changes over the last 30 years and the Vitesse bikes have been completely devoid of the shortcomings of their predecessors. In fact, the only thing that connects the Vitesse D3 to its ancestors now is a reliable 3-speed planetary bushing Sturmey Archer, which is now manufactured in Taiwan rather than Nottingham. Sturmey Archer was able to return to the market a few years ago, when its owners almost liquidated the brand and production.

Another key component of the Vitesse D3 is the lightweight and well-processed frame. A few years ago, buyers with a small budget could not even dream of a frame of high quality. But now, thanks to the very low wages of Chinese workers and huge production volumes, such quality frames are put even on the lower price range. It is not known how long this fair of generosity will last, but even if China starts to raise wages, Dahon will most likely move production to Vietnam or Cambodia. The price of Dahon bikes will increase only if the salaries are increased in these countries, as countries with such low wages will no longer remain. Fortunately, the economic and political consequences of this situation are beyond the scope of this article.

Testing Dahon Vitesse D3 on the road

The first impression that Vitesse D3 makes on the customer is its low weight. Due to the relatively large size of the Dahon Vitesse D3 bike, it is not possible to believe that it is light at first. It weighs only 12.7 kg. On this parameter it certainly cannot compete with Brompton bikes, which weight makes 11 and 12,5 kg, but the difference is rather insignificant.

On a three-speed bike, the transmission ratio is always a compromise. With grey market in mind, Dahon has set itself the goal of equipping the Vitesse with low gears and has chosen 42″, 56″ and 74″ gear ratios. Of course, the maximum gear ratio of 74″ is too low for this nimble, lightweight bike. But when you’re shopping a lot under the hill, you can’t do without a 42″ gear ratio.

The control

The control is not too outstanding, but it is impossible to name it as well as difficult – we have not found neither obvious lacks, nor obvious pluses. A good sign is that you can ride this bike with relaxed hands. It’s very unusual for small wheeled bikes. Standard size 20 x 1.5 tyres contribute to the handling of the bike. The only small drawback is that the handlebar stem setting is not working properly. This problem can be easily solved, but before you pay for your bike, make sure that the dealer has set it right.

Thanks to a pair of suitable Kenda Kwest tyres, the rolling resistance is quite low. During the test drive, the pressure on the front wheel was 50 pounds per square inch, and on the rear wheel – the maximum recommended pressure of 65 pounds per square inch. Our impression of the Vitesse D3 is that it is inferior to the best folding bicycles with 20-inch wheels.

The adjustment of the bike landing is very limited: the steering wheel height is adjustable, the saddle height is within 101 cm and its longitudinal position. In practice, 90% of cyclists will be able to make these adjustments. A bicycle may not be suitable only for those with long legs and/or short arms.

Brakes

Thanks to our new digital gravity meter, we have been able to accurately measure the effectiveness of the brakes. Gravity is equivalent to acceleration (stopping) and is measured in a gravity constant (G). Modern vehicles can produce more than 1G of braking force thanks to the four chain tyres on a suitable dry surface. But two-wheeled bikes, such as the Dahon, cannot boast of such a performance. The bike stops long before the 1G mark is reached. Usually the average value for the rear brake is 0.36G and for the front brake is 0.72G (you can then fly over the steering wheel).

These forces must not be added up. We will not get the braking force of 1.08G at the strongest braking, as the rear wheel is not actually involved in braking due to the separation of the rear wheel from the ground. Thus, the maximum braking force of the Vitesse D3 bike is 0.72G. To find out how good this figure is, you will have to try out a few more bikes. Ultimately, the maximum braking force is measured, not the efficiency of the braking system, which may also require measuring the efficiency of the brake arms.

Despite the fact that the manufacturer is not aware of this, the indirect brakes work perfectly. Although there are problems with the rear brake due to the curved S-shaped cable, which leads to uneven braking. Both the front and rear brakes can only be adjusted directly on the wheel. This is a common problem with all Dahon bikes. Of course, a good salesman will warn you about this problem in advance, but many people don’t. Brake handles can be adjusted, especially if you have short hands, the main thing is not to lose the adjusting screw.

Specifications and equipment Dahon Vitesse D3

Dahon Vitesse D3 2013 ($460)

As you can see from the table, the Dahon Vitesse D3 folding bike is quite well equipped. It comes with a specific old-fashioned boot with a chrome spring holder, wings, Plexiglas chain protection, footrest, bell and gearshift. All this works perfectly, although we have a few remarks: trouser trouser pants (mostly flared) clinging to the main joints of the bicycle frame, and the Sturmey gearshift is quite heavy and uncomfortable. Bicyclists with small or weak hands may prefer the old, unrivalled 1937 model of the switch … for older cyclists it may cause nostalgia. The planetary hub itself does not need to be adjusted, but we had to deal with the gear shift.

Dahon folding mechanism

To begin with, it is the standard Dahon bicycle mechanism when the steering wheel is folded to the left and then the frame is folded in half to the left. But on the Vitesse models there is an inconvenient moment, because in order to prevent pollution by the brake levers of the stand or floor, it is also necessary to turn the steering wheel. Due to the need to turn the handlebars, the system is not well thought out, as the brake handles are too high and the gear indicator too low. When folded down, after folding the brakes and the rudder switch, you can still turn the handlebar into a more comfortable position. This is not very annoying for occasional walks in the park at the weekend, but it is tiring for regular trips to work over time.

Lower the seatpost, fold down the right pedal (standard Dahon “Next” design) and you’ll have a convolution of 83.8 cm x 67.3 cm x 33.7 cm and 190 liters. It’s more cumbersome than a similar Helios model. When folded, the Vitesse D3 bike is approximately as large as a widow’s width as the Brompton folding bikes, which are leaders in the folding mechanism. However, the size of the bike remains acceptable.

Unfolding the bike is quite simple, unless the cables, brake handles and connecting rods are constantly tangled, which can double the unfolding time.

Conclusion

If you come to the store to buy a good folding bike with a planetary hub and trunk, then the model Vitesse D3 is a worthy representative in its class. It will not be able to break records for speed, folding mechanism or overall performance, but it is a pretty good bike. With proper care, it will serve you for years. It would be reasonable for such a model to set a price much higher than 500 dollars, but it is in fact much cheaper and so you will not have any doubts about the expediency of buying this bike.

Of course, it is better to buy a folding Strida or Pashley Micro bike, which is much better than the bike. It will easily squeeze out the Dahon model in quality, but still for bikes of this class you have to pay about a thousand dollars. The Dahon quality ratio is unbeatable.

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