trek st mountain bike price

Trek ST 120 1996 Technical specs and features

General specs of trek st 120 bicycle, wheels and breaking system, frame and body specifications, gearing specs, trek st 120 fork system data, other specs of trek st 120, trek st 120 picture, st 120 bike comparison.

Trek ST 120 VS Conejo Rabbit XAT (41)

Trek ST 120 VS Santa Cruz Heckler (16)

Trek ST 120 VS Scott Genius 20

Trek ST 120 VS Ventana El Terremoto

Trek ST 120 bike review

Trek produced the ST 120 bike in 1996 and can be classified as a Mountain bike bicycle, this exact model costs in american market arround $1,099.99. ST 120 bike is available in many sizes such as Large , medium and small . Trek Mountain bike ST 120 can be found in one single color which is Black. This bike is equiped with Front: 26 x 1.95" Tioga Psycho KS tires and Union stainless steel spoke wheel while the rims are manufactured by Matrix Lobo, 32-hole. Trek equiped this exact model with Shimano Alivio M-System brakes, Dia-Compe PC-7 levers braking system . To guarantee the comfiest ride Trek used Easton ProGram 6061 T6 material for the frame. System 1 high strength material is used on the handlebar of this ST 120 to ensure the perfect handling while the stems are made of System 2. For the smoothest biking experience Shimano STX, 22/32/42 teeth is used on this bicycle linked to Shimano CN-IG31 chain that is easily replaceable as stated by Trek , the whole system is connected to a high reliability Grip Shift SRT-600 gear shift levers.

• Get The best price of Trek ST 120
• Find Trek ST 120 parts and accessories

Trek ST 120 competitors

Subscribe to my YouTube channel for video reviews.

Trek 820 Review: Is It a Good Bike or Waste of Money?

CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links.

Trek 820 is the most affordable mountain bike from Trek. The question is:

Is it a good bike? Should you spend your money on it?

Trek 820 is a mountain bike suitable for beginners because it’s affordable yet well-made. This means it has a quality steel frame, Shimano components, and front suspension for absorbing bumps. In addition, it’s available in a step-through option suitable for women.

Below, you will learn more about it, and I will also explain how it differs from more expensive mountain bikes .

Let’s dive in!

Is Trek 820 a Good Bike?

Trek 820 is a good bike considering its price of $499.99 (when writing this review).

For this money, you get:

• An entry-level mountain bike with front fork suspension for absorbing bumps.
• A steel frame with a relaxed geometry for a comfortable riding position.
• Shimano Tourney groupset and Bontrager components.

You don’t have to use it strictly for off-road riding. Many owners also use it for commuting on paved roads.

However, if necessary, you can easily cross unpaved sections full of potholes, rocks, etc. The wide, knobby tires and front suspension will absorb them so you can enjoy a comfortable ride.

Another feature of why Trek 820 is popular is its gear range. Thanks to the 3X chainring and 7spd cassette, you can choose from 21 gears.

Trek 820 is suitable for riders 4’6″ – 6’8″ (137-203 cm) tall and has a weight limit of up to 300 lbs (136 kg).

Pros and Cons of Trek 820

Here I summarized the pros and cons of Trek 820.

Pros of Trek 820

• Quality and sturdy steel frame
• Available for men and women (step-through option)
• Affordable price
• Comfortable geometry, allowing upright riding position
• Suspension fork
• Available in a wide range of sizes
• High weight limit of up to 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Platform pedals included
• Compatible with accessories like racks
• Lifetime warranty and wide distributors (support) network

Cons of Trek 820

• 3X drivetrain (2X and 1X are more popular thanks to their simplicity)
• Limited color selection
• The higher weight of 33.7 lbs (15.3 kg)
• 26-inch wheels

To fully understand the pros and cons, I recommend reading the following section where I compare its features with today’s mountain bikes.

Owner’s Experience with Trek 820

The following part summarizes the experience of the owner of Trek 820, who was kind enough to provide us with pictures and his insights. You can follow him on Instagram @trek_grando .

“It’s a steel frame bike with front suspension great for mild mountain biking. Suspension is definitely on the stiffer side and can bottom out somewhat easily.

My bike is almost entirely stock, minus the front wheel and grips. The saddle is also a factory replacement, and the decals on the front suspension are missing.

The bike and I were hit by a car last year. The front wheel was destroyed, and there were some heavy scratches on the paint. The decals on the fork were torn apart. I was able to hide the blemishes with some touch-up paint.

The bike was serviced after the accident, and only the front wheel and left crank arm needed replacement. So, needless to say, the bike is very robust and strong.

If I had one complaint about the bike, the gearing is far too short, and there are some big jumps between gears. But it’s a low-end bike, so that’s understandable.

Tires handle loose or muddy terrain fine but are very loud and slow on the pavement.

The Trek 820 is a robust, rugged lower-end / entry-level mountain bike. It’s dependable, relatively capable, and very comfortable.

I’d recommend this for someone new to riding, mountain biking specifically. It’s a great way to get out on some trails without breaking the bank. I feel I can take great confidence in knowing it is a solid bike that I won’t have to ever really worry about.”

Main Features of Trek 820

Below, I explain Trek 820’s features and how they compare to more expensive mountain bikes.

Durable Steel Frame

Trek 820 is one of the few mountain bikes based on a steel frame.

Steel is relatively affordable, durable, and stiff but heavy. So, if you don’t care about the bike’s overall weight and durability is your priority, Trek 820 is the bike to buy.

More expensive mountain bikes have aluminum or carbon frames. You can read my article dedicated to bike frame materials , where you learn more about their benefits.

On the other side of the spectrum are aluminum mountain bikes. For example, Trek 3700 and Trek 4300 have an aluminum frame.

Another thing I want to point out is the frame geometry. It’s relatively relaxed, so you will sit in a more upright position, which is suitable for beginners and people with limited flexibility.

26-Inch Wheels

Trek 820 comes with 26-inch wheels. These are more agile, accelerate faster, and feel more responsive than 27.5 or 29-inch wheels.

But, they are not as fast and comfortable as the other two alternatives. On the other hand, 26″ wheels provide better maneuverability.

If you can, I recommend trying them in person so you can feel the riding difference.

Trek 820 is equipped with Shimano Tourney (shifters, derailleurs, cranks, cassette), Bontrager, and other 3rd party components.

Of course, they are low-end because the bike’s price doesn’t allow for more expensive components.

820 also comes with rim brakes. Today’s mountain bikes mostly come with disc brakes. But they are more expensive and also heavier than rim brakes.

Another thing to mention is the width of the handlebar. Trek’s 820 handlebar is only 660-690mm (depending on the bike size). Modern mountain bikes come with 700 to 800mm handlebars.

The current generation of Trek 820 comes with a 3×7spd drivetrain, offering 21 gears.

This range is wide enough for various terrains. Just make sure you avoid cross-chaining. See the following illustration for more info.

The disadvantage of the 3X drivetrains is their complexity, more complicated maintenance, and higher weight.

More expensive mountain bikes come with 2X or 1X drivetrains that are much simpler.

You don’t have to think about the cross-chaining with them as much. They are also lighter and easier to maintain. That’s why they are more popular.

Suspension Fork

Trek 820 comes with a 75mm travel SR Suntour M-3030 fork (unlike the old Trek 800 ).

The travel of forks on entry-level mountain bikes ranges from 50 to 100mm. So, it sits somewhere in the middle.

This travel will absorb some bumps, but it’s not suitable for hard trails, for example.

In other words, it’s less forgiving than mountain bikes with longer travel and higher quality forks (that cost the same as the entire Trek 820).

Remember, SR Suntour M-3030 is one of the cheapest forks on the market. So you shouldn’t expect much from it.

Trek 820 Specifications

Below, I summarize the most important technical specifications. They differ based on the year the bike was produced:

• Frame material: Steel
• Weight: ±33.7 lbs (15.3 kg) depending on frame size
• Wheel size: 26-inch
• Brakes: Rim
• Groupset: Shimano Tourney
• Gears: 3×7spd
• Fork: SR Suntour M-3030 (75mm travel)

What Size of Trek 820 do You Need?

To choose the correct size of Trek 820 (WMN) for your height and inseam, refer to the following Trek 820 sizing charts.

Trek 820 (also available in a step-through option for women ) is a mountain bike worth buying if you are a beginner.

It’s one of the bikes that you can rely on on various terrains. And you don’t have to be afraid of breaking it, thanks to its durable steel frame.

Its main shortcomings include higher weight, limited color selection, and rim brakes.

Trek 820 FAQ

Yes. Trek 820 is a worthy mountain bike for beginners and people who want a reliable commuter bike. It has a durable steel frame and quality components from Shimano, Bontrager, and other brands to last you for years. Its main disadvantages are the higher weight, less effective suspension fork, and rim brakes.

Trek 820 comes in different colors and has a standard frame. 820 WMN is a step-through bike with a women-specific saddle.

Trek 820 weighs ±15.3kg (33.7 lbs). Remember, the weight differs based on its size.

Trek 820 has been in Trek’s lineup since 1987. ( Source )

About The Author

Petr Minarik

2 thoughts on “trek 820 review: is it a good bike or waste of money”.

My Trek 820 was purchased in Riyadh Saudi Arabia and came with 27” wheels. I didn’t know this was not standard. I have ridden my Trek all over Saudi Arabia for 4 years and Have now ridden for 4 years in Florida. It has worked well and now I bought a full suspension Trek Fuel 5. The Trek is a great bike!

Cool, thanks for sharing your experience, Thomas! – Petr

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Start typing and press enter to search

Submit Search

• Utility/Hybrid
• Kids/Junior
• Bicycle Czar collection
• Electric Assist

Back to top

Trek 820 Review – Is This Bike Worth Buying?

The Trek 820 is almost certainly the least expensive “name brand” mountain bike you can buy. With an SRP of $439 (check the Trek site for the latest MSRP ) it hardly seems possible that this bike comes from the same manufacturer that produces some of the most respected – and expensive – mountain bikes on the market. It does, though, and that makes a difference. Trek is a large company that makes lots of bikes. That means they make lots of frames and they order lots of components from some of the biggest names in the industry. That gives them pricing leverage that they pass on to the customer. It would be almost impossible for a smaller or less well-connected company to produce a similar bike at the same price.

You’re also getting the expertise of some of the industry’s top bike designers and builders, and that shows in the design of the frame, the component selection, and the overall value.

The Trek 820 is a basic bike that steps away from many of the trends that define modern mountain bikes. The bike features 26” wheels, not the 27.5” or 29” versions that dominate the industry today. The brakes are old-school rim brakes. The drivetrain has 3 gears in front and 7 in back, and the front fork offers only 3” of travel. Clearly this is not a race ride or a big hit machine, but how does it stack up for its intended purpose: around-town riding and introductory trail rides?

Let’s take a look..

Quick Overview: What I Think of the Trek 820

For older riders (like me) who took up mountain biking back in the 90s, the Trek 820 has a “blast from the past” feel to it. Back in those days we all rode bikes with rim brakes, short-travel forks, 26” wheels, and steep angles. We had a ton of fun and rode some steep, rough trails. We didn’t feel limited by those bikes, because there wasn’t anything else. We didn’t know they were supposed to limit us, so they didn’t.

That doesn’t mean that the Trek 820 is an ideal ride for steep, rugged trails. If you can get a modern full suspension slack-angled trail slayer you’ll have a much better tool for that job. But if you don’t happen to have a few thousand dollars ready to pour into a bicycle, you can buy a Trek 820 and have a great around-town ride that can do more on the trail than a lot of riders realize. Those modern trail bikes are great, but don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t ride trails without one.

In short: if I could choose any bike I wanted, I wouldn’t choose a Trek 820. If I had to choose a bike that cost under $450, I probably would choose a Trek 820. It may not be the best bike you can get, but it’s probably the best you can get for $439.99

What You Get

Let’s look at the key components of the Trek 820.

The Trek 820 frame is made of steel. That means three things. It’s heavy, it’s strong, and it’s inexpensive. Because it’s a Trek, it also has a sleek design, impeccable welds, and high-quality finish and paint. The 820 will never be a light bike, but you will not break the frame and you won’t get tired of looking at it. 

The 820 carries a simple coil spring suspension fork from SR Suntour, a leading Japanese manufacturer of low to mid-end suspension. Travel is 75mm (3 inches), very short by today’s standards but enough to suck up the impact of rough roads, curb drops, and small root-and-rock trail chatter. It won’t hold up to big hits, but that’s not what it’s meant to do. It’s sturdy and durable and should deliver solid service for years.

The 820 comes with a Shimano 3×7 drivetrain: 3 gears in the front and 7 in back. The shifters and derailleurs are from the Shimano Tourney series. They are the cheapest drivetrain components Shimano makes, but they are still produced by one of the world’s two premier drivetrain manufacturers. That matters, because Shimano lets its technology trickle-down: as new upgrades are introduced in the premium levels, the old premium features move down to the lower level parts. 

The Tourney drivetrain won’t win you any bling points at the bike shop, but it will get the job done. You’ll have appropriate gears for level ground, moderate climbs, and all but the steepest steep climbs, and you’ll be able to shift smoothly and precisely. You may have a problem if you want to upgrade the drivetrain. Due to compatibility issues, you’d have to replace all the parts simultaneously, potentially an expensive proposition.

Because the Trek 820 is a beginner-oriented bike, I’ll point out that the durability and performance of drivetrain parts depend heavily on good tuning and the use of proper shifting technique. If you buy your bike – any bike – online, be sure that it’s set up by a qualified mechanic. Take the time to learn good shifting technique. Your equipment will perform better and last longer if you use and maintain it well! Many of the complaints you see in online bike reviews are not issues with the bike or its components, but with the way it was assembled and tuned.

The 820 carries Tektro alloy linear-pull rim brakes. These brakes work by clamping two rubber pads onto the rim of the wheel. This is an old-school braking technology that has been largely replaced by disc brakes on more expensive bikes. It still works, and it’s been used successfully for many years. Disc brakes will perform better in very wet or very muddy conditions, but rim brakes will stop you and control your speed very effectively.

You will have to be careful if you want to use another wheel. Mountain bike wheels (of the same size) are often interchangeable, but rim brakes must be used with a compatible rim. Many rims designed for use with disc brakes don’t have a flat surface designed to be gripped by rim brakes.

The 820 carries a basic, solid wheelset that will do its job, in keeping with the overall theme of the bike. The wheel size is 26”: that size is no longer popular but it was the mountain bike standard for decades, and provided solid service to a generation of riders. The Formula hubs are durable and effective. The rims and tires are from Bontrager. Trek has a long-standing relationship with Bontrager, which supplies many of the components for their lower-end bikes. That relationship brings two advantages. Bontrager makes solid, utilitarian parts, and because Trek orders a large number of parts from the company, they get competitive prices, which they pass on to the consumer.

The Bontrager LT3 tires are a compromise. They are knobby enough to give decent grip in moderate trail conditions but don’t have a high enough profile to create massive tire drag on cement. They won’t grip the trail like an aggressively knobby tire would and they won’t roll as smooth and fast on cement as narrow slicks would, but they will give you a solid platform on a wide variety of different surfaces.

Note that the maximum tire width is 2.0”, which may constrain your options if you want to step up to a wider more trail-capable tire down the line.

Other Components  

Trek fills out the 801’s component spec with what you’d expect: solid, reliable parts, primarily from Bontrager. Nothing is high-end, and you won’t see any featherweight titanium bits or elegant hyper-precise CNC machining, but everything there will do its job and hold up to abuse. 

The 820 frame comes with a full range of mounting points for luggage racks and other accessories. This feature is important on an around-town commuter bike: if you’re going to work or running down to the store you may need to carry a light to moderate load, and the racks make that a lot easier. They also make the 820 suitable for use as an entry-level bikepacking bike. The mounted kickstand, rarely included on pure mountain bikes, makes short-term parking easier.

Component Roundup

You won’t find high end parts on the 820. That’s expected: this is a bike designed to be the most affordable name-brand mountain bike on the market. What you will find is an intelligent selection of parts carefully selected to deliver durability and serviceability at the lowest profitable price.  

Let’s rate the 820 component mix on a 1 to 5 scale relative to other bikes in the sub-$700 range.

The components of a bicycle don’t work alone: everything has to fit together and work together to deliver the performance you need. Let’s look at how the total package performs.

Sizing 

The 820 comes in two versions. The 820WSD is five sizes, from XS to XL, and fits riders from 4’6” to 6’8”. The 820 also comes in a version designed for women, the 820WSD, which features a sharply dissenting top tube that provides very low standover height, a very appealing feature for smaller riders, especially less experienced smaller riders. The WSD comes in three sizes: XS, S, and L.

The smaller sizes of the 820 make this bike a great option for younger riders. If you want to buy a good quality bike for a growing child but you don’t want to overspend on a bike that will be outgrown in a year or two, the 820 in S or XS is a great option.

If you’re a beginning rider the whole concept of bike geometry may seem too complex to grasp. Even experienced riders may be confused over the details! To put it very simply, “slack” or “modern” geometry places the front wheel ahead of the handlebars, which adds stability and reduces the tendency to go over the bars on steep descents. This may also cause the front to wander on steep climbs.

“Steep” or “traditional” geometry places the front wheel under the handlebars, which gives stability on smooth roads and steep climbs. It also makes it easier to tip the bike forward on a steep descent, so you’ll need to drop the saddle down and keep your weight well back when the trail turns down.

The Trek 820 is very much in the “traditional” category, which is appropriate to its purpose. That will serve you well on road rides, but if you ride steeper trails you will need to adjust your body position to keep your weight low and back and the downhills. It’s absolutely possible – aggressive riders rode steep-angled bikes for many years – but it might take some effort.

Performance

The quickest way to sum up the Trek 820’s performance is that it rides above its price tag. This is a bike that carries a price tag not much above department store bikes, but has none of the looseness, squeaking, or rattling that so often go with inexpensive bikes. Part of that is because Trek sells through a network of credible dealers with trained mechanics that assemble and tune the bikes they sell. Many department stores or general sporting goods stores sell bikes that are assembled by unqualified staff members, and that often results in poor assembly and tuning, which in turn can create issues with the brakes, drivetrain, and most other parts of the bike.

The 820 is solid. It’s heavy for a hardtail, but that goes with the price: bikers say you can have two of cheap, light, and strong, but never all three. The 820 drops the lightness, but it’s cheap and sturdy, and that’s what you want in an inexpensive bike.

This bike is a hybrid designed to serve two purposes. As an around-town commuter, errand bike, and exercise/recreation tool it would be hard to ask for more. A pure road bike will be faster and more efficient, but the wider tires, wider bars, and more upright riding position of the 820 will feel more secure, stable, and comfortable for beginning riders. The shifting and gear combinations will serve for all but very steep hills, and the entry-level Shimano drivetrain shifts smoothly and easily. The multiple mounting points make it easy to set up a rack system to carry your daily loads. The low-end nature of the bike will not limit you to any appreciable degree in this type of riding, and if you have a chance to ride a more expensive bike you may wonder what makes it worth that price tag.

The limitations of the 820 may be more evident on the trail. You can certainly ride this bike on mountain bike trails, but you will feel the bumps and you will have to learn some basic skills from the start. That’s not a bad thing. Learning to stand up on the pedals, let your knees work as shock absorbers, and move your weight forward for climbs and back for descents is important. Those skills will help you even on a much more sophisticated bike. The limited suspension will force you to pick a line rather than plowing over obstacles and letting your suspension do the work. You won’t be doing jumps or drops, but you wouldn’t expect to on a bike like this.

The Bottom Line

If you haven’t ridden a bike before or if you rode as a child and are getting back on a bike for the first time in a while, the Trek 820 makes a perfect entry point. It’s affordable and you’ll get the kind of quality that will assure that your learning experience is good and your equipment doesn’t hold you back.

If you’ve ridden bikes before and you need a highly affordable bike for daily use and around town and occasional trail rides, the Trek 820 will be one of your top picks. If you’re looking for a stable, secure bike to ride around town, to work, and to school the Trek 820 will be a perfect fit.

If trail riding is your priority and you’re looking for a dedicated mountain bike, you might be better off saving a little more and looking for a bike designed for that purpose. If that’s not realistic from a financial perspective, you can go with the Trek 820 and ride trails with it. You’ll just need to understand the limitations of your equipment and work within them, leaning more on your skills than on your bike.

Trek approaches their low-end bikes with the same care that they put into designing their high-spec packages, and it shows. The Trek 820 is very inexpensive, but it’s intelligently designed and specced, solidly built, and effective. If you’re on a limited budget and you need a working bicycle, it’s a great choice.

Let’s compare the Trek 820 to other name-brand bikes in the sub-$700 range as an overall purchase. Remember that the 820 is in most cases going to be by far the cheapest option in that category. If you compared the 820 to department-store no-brand bikes in its price range and below you’d be looking at a 5 rating right down the line!

• Rocky Mountain
• Specialized
• YT Industries
• Allied Cycle Works
• Black Market
• DALLINGRIDGE
• Diamondback
• Early Rider
• EVO Bicycles
• Growler Bikes
• Guerrilla Gravity
• iGO Electric
• Intense 951
• Juiced Bikes
• View all brands
• Production Privee
• Rad Power Bikes
• Rambo Bikes
• Riese & Müller
• Soul Fast E Bikes
• Spark Cycleworks
• State Bicycle Co.
• Structure Cycleworks
• Surface 604
• Van Nicholas
• Vintage Electric
• We Are One Composites

• Cross Country

• All Mountain

Trek is a US-based bike manufacturer, which also sells a number of bike components under the Bontrager brand. Trek bikes feature ABP, RE:aktiv suspension and the Full Floater suspension design.

Trek Marlin 6

Trek Marlin 7

Trek Marlin 8

Trek Slash 8

Riding Style

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. Learn more.

About MTB Database

Explore, search and compare thousands of the world’s best mountain bikes here on Mountain Bike Database.

Compare prices, components, suspension, reviews, images and more on current and past MTB’s. You can even share reviews, comments and questions on mountain bikes. View and compare a huge selection of bikes from brands such as Trek , Specialized , Giant , Santa Cruz , Norco and more .

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for mountain bikes on MTB Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know . We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right mountain bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.

Want more MTB in your mailbox?

Bikes by brand, bikes by year, bikes by riding style, bikes by wheel size, popular bikes.

• 2022 Specialized Epic EVO Comp
• 2022 Trek Marlin 6
• 2022 Specialized Enduro Comp
• 2022 Specialized S-Works Epic EVO
• 2022 Specialized Epic EVO Expert
• 2022 Giant Fathom 29 1
• 2022 Trek Marlin 7

Latest Bikes

• 2023 Commencal SUPREME DH V5 SIGNATURE 70'S
• 2023 Orange Phase 29 Factory
• 2022 Commencal META SX V4 TEAM Frame
• 2023 Commencal SUPREME DH V5 SIGNATURE LTD
• 2023 Commencal META SX V4 - Frame
• 2023 Riese & Müller Swing4 vario
• 2023 Riese & Müller Swing4 silent

Cycling made Simple.

Made By Cyclists

Examining the Trek 3900: Is This Bike Worth Buying?

September 27, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek 3900 combines durability and versatility, making it suitable for diverse terrains and rider levels.
• With proper maintenance, the Trek 3900 promises longevity, underlining its value for both beginners and intermediate riders.
• Despite its entry-level categorization, the bike offers a blend of reliable features and customization options, providing a tailored riding experience.

‍ If you are looking for a new mountain bike, the Trek 3900 is one option worth considering. We’ll take a look and see if this bike is worth the investment.

The Trek 3900 is a versatile mountain bike with Trek's Alpha Aluminum frame, offering lightweight durability. It's suitable for city streets and trails, with features like a suspension fork for comfortable riding and Bontrager-approved rims for enhanced handling.

The following sections will discuss the Trek 3900 regarding ride quality, frame and fork performance, wheels and brakes, and overall value. We will provide you with our opinion based on firsthand experiences and thorough research, including sharing insights from other riders. The information provided was also discovered through personal tests using the bike.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Trek 3900 Bike Overview

The Trek 3900 is a popular mountain bike that has been on the market for quite some time. Its history can be traced back to when Trek Bikes was first established in the mid-1970s.

Over the years, the bike has evolved, with many models being suitable for different riders and terrains. The Trek 3900 has plenty to offer to cruise the city streets comfortably and confidently.

Its frame comprises Trek's Alpha Aluminum, making it both lightweight and robust. Available in various frame sizes, it caters to riders of different heights. The bike is equipped with a suspension fork, which allows for comfortable and efficient riding on multiple terrains.

The Trek 3900 features wheels with sturdy Bontrager-approved rims, providing durable handling on city streets and trails. Meanwhile, its wide range of tires offers excellent grip and traction on various surfaces.

Beyond these core specifications, the Trek 3900 also features disc-compatible dropouts, fenders, and rack mounts. These extras allow for easy customization and the addition of valuable accessories, depending on your preferences and needs.

Trek 3900 Bike Key Features

The Trek 3900 is an exemplary model that combines advanced technology with sleek design. Its distinctive features make it an ideal choice for those seeking performance and style. Here are a few worth mentioning.

Formula Alloy FM31 Wheels

The Trek 3900 features Formula Alloy FM31 wheels, providing a lightweight yet durable option that can handle various terrains. These wheels are well-suited for city streets and light off-road trails, offering the user a smooth and consistent ride.

Moreover, their precise construction ensures better traction and stability, especially during sharp turns and sudden stops, boosting rider confidence. The elegant design also adds an aesthetic appeal to the bike, making it functional and visually captivating.

Alpha White Aluminum Frameset

This mountain bike's Alpha White Aluminum frameset is both lightweight and sturdy. It has disc-compatible dropouts for enhanced braking performance and fender mounts for mud and water protection.

The frame is available in various sizes to cater to many riders. Plus, you will notice the adjustable headset, durable stem, sturdy cassette, and bi-oval downtube all significantly influence how this bike performs on various terrains.

This blend of design and technology ensures longevity and peak performance, even under the toughest conditions. Its sleek finish further amplifies the bike's overall appearance.

SR Suntour XC Suspension Fork

The Trek 3900 has an SR Suntour XC suspension fork, which absorbs bumps and provides a comfortable ride on rough terrain. With this fork, you can enjoy smoother handling and better control when tackling challenging trails.

The design also reduces strain on the rider's body, especially the shoulders and wrists. It's crafted for durability, ensuring it stands the test of time and rough terrains without wearing out easily, making your adventures worry-free.

3X8 Drivetrain

The bike's 3X8 drivetrain offers various gears to suit different riding styles and conditions. The rear derailleur on the Trek 3900 ensures smooth and reliable shifting performance.

This setup is perfect for beginners getting used to various terrains and gauging their preferred cycling modes. This can be tackling steep climbs or riding high speeds on flat surfaces.

The drivetrain requires minimal maintenance, ensuring you spend more time riding and less time tuning. Its intuitive design facilitates swift gear transitions, enhancing the overall cycling experience.

Trek 3900 Performance Analysis

When assessing the caliber of a mountain bike, it's imperative to analyze its performance in real-world conditions. Here is what we learned about the Trek 3900 after various test rides.

The Trek 3900 mountain bike offers a comfortable ride owing to its saddle and handlebar design. The handlebar Bontrager ensures a secure grip and good handling. Its saddle provides a cushioned surface that supports you throughout your journey.

Including specialized grips further accentuates the user experience, providing a layer of security and a tactile feel.

With its 3X8 drivetrain, the Trek 3900 offers a wide range of shifts, making it suitable for various speed requirements. The bike's lightweight frame and wheels contribute to its overall speed capabilities, allowing for swift acceleration and effortless rides.

Whether racing downhill or cruising, it promises a responsive and efficient speed performance. I enjoyed how quickly I could pick up the pace on longer riders without a struggle.

The Trek 3900's frame is built with Alpha White Aluminum, ensuring the bike's solid and sturdy foundation. Most of the components are long-lasting, except for the Suntour forks, which might require replacement after extended use.

The stock tires may show signs of wear sooner than expected, so monitoring them for timely replacement is essential. While the stock tires offer good traction and performance, they may show signs of wear sooner than expected.

Terrain Adaptability

The Trek 3900 mountain bike performs reasonably well on general pavement and city streets. However, its true capabilities shine on off-road trails and uneven terrains, thanks to its front suspension and knobby tires.

This bike offers stability and control for riders who frequently encounter rough paths. This is why the brake design is the way it is, too.

How Long Does The Trek 3900 Last?

The Trek 3900 is a popular mountain bike known for its durability and ability to handle various terrains. This bike can last for several years with proper care and maintenance, providing enjoyable riding experiences.

The bike's frame is constructed from Alpha Silver Aluminum, ensuring a long-lasting and lightweight design. In terms of components, most of them are Bontrager-approved, meaning they are of good quality and reliable.

To extend the life of the Trek 3900, it's essential to keep up with regular maintenance. This includes cleaning and oiling the chain, checking and adjusting the rear derailleur, and inspecting the brakes and wheels for wear and tear.

Be sure to visit your local bike shop for tune-ups and component replacements if needed. For city streets riding or daily commutes, the Trek 3900 comes with disc-compatible dropouts and fender mounts.

While the Trek 3900 may not be the most advanced mountain bike on the market, it is certainly a durable and reliable option for beginners and intermediate riders. In our opinion, with proper care and maintenance, the Trek 3900 is well worth the investment.

Is The Trek 3900 Good For a Beginner?

The Trek 3900 is one of the models in Trek's entry-level mountain bike lineup from years past. For beginners looking to get into mountain biking or casual riding, the Trek 3900 offers several benefits.

First, Trek is known for building sturdy frames. The 3900 model, in particular, features an aluminum frame, which is both lightweight and durable. Being an entry-level bike, the Trek 3900 is typically priced more affordably than more specialized or higher-end mountain bikes.

While the components on the 3900 aren't top-of-the-line, they are more than adequate for beginners and casual riders. They offer a decent mix of reliability and performance for the price.

For a beginner or someone looking for a versatile and affordable bike for casual riding or light trail use, the Trek 3900 is a good option.

Is The Trek 3900 Bike Worth Buying?

The Trek 3900 boasts a sturdy frame that is reportedly quite durable. The frame geometry is designed to handle a variety of trails and city streets, making it suitable for different levels of riders.

Additionally, the bike comes equipped with fender mounts and disc-compatible dropouts, allowing for personalized upgrades and the addition of accessories. One area that stands out in the Trek 3900 is its brakes.

The stock brakes provide good stopping power, though some users report reduced effectiveness at high speeds. Upgrading the brakes might be something to consider, depending on your riding style and preferences.

The bike's gearing and drivetrain, featuring a wide range and rear derailleur, have been praised for their performance on various terrains. However, it's important to keep in mind that some components, such as the forks and pedals, have received mixed reviews, with riders suggesting possible upgrades.

10 Most Haunted Cycling Locations in the World

The 10 Most Bikeable Small Islands

10 Quirky Bicycle Accessories That Are Actually Useful

10 Innovative Ways to Incorporate Cycling into Daily Life

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. The images and content on this page may be created by, or with the assistance of, artificial intelligence, and should be used for entertainment and informational purposes only.

About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

Trending Now

The Top 10 Most Iconic Cycling Photos of All Time

10 Breathtaking Mountain Passes Every Cyclist Should Conquer

10 Family-Friendly Bike Rides in the U.S.

10 Cycling Rituals from Around the World

About PedalChef

PedalChef is a blog on all things cycling. We are a group of people who love bikes, and we want to share the joy that comes with the experience. You can read more about us here .

©2024 PedalChef. All rights reserved.

We can be reached at [email protected]

PedalChef.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs, and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

The 14 Best Road Bikes to Buy Right Now

These amazing road, racing, and endurance bicycles are lightweight and built for speed, comfort, and long rides.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

Many buyers choose to purchase their bikes online. For this article, we prioritized brands and retailers that will allow you to do that—either shipping directly to you or to a local dealer for assembly. If you wish to purchase your new road bike from a bike shop , several of the options listed here are also available from local retailers, but call before you shop to make sure your dealer has the right model, color, and size.

If cost is no barrier, start your search with the Specialized Tarmac SL8 . One of last year’s most exciting new models, this bike is one of the most well-rounded road race bikes we have tested. For more options, the other models in this roundup were evaluated by our expert test team staff and all are highly recommended.

What Can You Get For Your Dollar?

Why you should trust us, how we selected these bikes, our full road bike reviews, best road bikes under $1,500, best road bikes under $3,000, best road bikes under $6,000, dream bikes, what to look for in a road bike, know your fit, road bike drivetrains, brand component hierarchies, what is a road bike.

I bought my first road bike in 1999. In those days, a road bike meant essentially two things: 19mm tires and dropped handlebars. Regardless of how you intended to ride your road bike, most models were designed around the era’s understanding of racing geometry.

Then 10 years later, when I was an editor at Bicycling , you could have a race bike, an endurance road bike with relaxed geometry and clearance for wide tires, or a touring bike with lots of mounts for bags and racks. The arrival of aero road bikes, so-called all-road, and then gravel bikes, further ballooned the options available to drop-bar cyclists.

Fortunately, the current options are a little more straightforward: Many road bikes now have geometry that will work for both flexible racers and for those who prefer to be more upright. Disc brakes mean that most bikes come with tires appropriate for pavement but have the space to fit wider tires if you like to take your road bike on moderate gravel or dirt roads (plus, we now know that 28mm of tire is far superior to the 19mm tires of my youth).

Advances in design also mean that most brands no longer need to offer both a regular road bike and an aero road bike—one frame can be light, stiff, and slippery to the wind. You can now have one drop-bar road bike that’s comfortable, fast, and fairly versatile for group rides, racing, and exploration.

Below $1,500 , you’ll find bikes with either rim or mechanical disc brakes. These bikes usually have 10-, 9-, or 8-speed drivetrains. If much of your riding is on flat or rolling terrain without steep grades, these drivetrains will serve you well. Riders looking to tackle lots of steep or long climbs will notice the limited gear range and increased weight of bikes at this price. Models under $2,000 usually have frames made from aluminum or steel.

The closer you get to $2,500 , the more likely you'll find bikes with 11-speed drivetrains. At this price point, the frames will probably be made of aluminum, but with more attention to small details, better finish quality, and nicer parts that all result in lighter bikes that are easier to pedal uphill and faster to accelerate. You may also get a carbon fork that can help smooth bumpy roads.

Additionally, with bikes at this level, you’re more likely to see hydraulic disc brakes. These are more powerful and easier to use than mechanical versions and require less adjustment. Road bikes at this price often weigh less than 20 pounds. Adventure and touring bikes at these prices typically weigh more but have a wider gear range and include more mounts for racks and bags.

Bikes between $3,000 and $6,000 , will usually have a carbon fiber frame and fork, along with higher-end components. The increased price comes with a decrease in weight, and bikes in this price range may have electronic shifting, upgraded wheelsets, and components such as bars, stems, and seatposts that may even be made out of carbon. Because these bikes are several pounds lighter, they may feel snappier when accelerating and going uphill.

If you want a premium, high-performance bike and can spend more than $5,000, what you can expect is a much higher quality finish, regardless of the frame material. All of our high-end recommendations are carbon fiber, but at these prices, you can find bikes made of carbon, steel, titanium, or aluminum. Each material has its own unique attributes, and no matter which you prefer, you can be sure that you’re getting a premium version of that material with this kind of financial investment. Count on high-end components and wheels that are lighter and more aerodynamic for smoother, longer rides.

While it’s not necessary to spend this much money on a bike that will let you enjoy excellent days on the bike, this is the price point that affords you access to one of road cycling’s great joys: Seeing a bike that looks very similar to yours carrying cyclists to prestigious wins and show-stopping performances in World Tour races.

Bicycling has been vetting and reviewing bikes, gear, and accessories for more than 50 years. The bike recommendations here are based on the extensive work of the test team which includes Deputy Editor Tara Seplavy, Senior Test Editor Matt Phillips, Test Editor Dan Chabonov, and Maintenance Editor Gabe Ortiz. Together, they have more than 60 years of ride-testing experience and insight that they bring to every recommendation they make.

For road bikes, Dan Chabonov oversaw these selections based on the team’s collective testing experience, as well as his own extensive knowledge of the category.

Andrew Bernstein has been a cyclist nearly his whole life and a passionate road rider and racer since he was a teenager. These days, he rides road and gravel bikes around his home in Boulder, Colo. As a former bike salesperson and Bicycling Gear Editor, Andrew has had the chance to ride many bikes and meet many Bicycling readers, helping him to know what to look for in making these recommendations.

Bicycling ’s Test Team carefully chose these road bikes based on value, quality of parts, user reviews, and experience with the brands and similar models. We rode and raced almost every one of these bicycles in all sorts of conditions, wrenched on them, and tried them with different wheels and tires.

State Bicycle Co. The Beatles Abbey Road Edition

A great-looking road bike for less than $600 that transports you back to the British Invasion? State Bicycle Company makes it happen. This special edition of State’s 4130 Road is fit to ride to Apple Studio with a look straight out of the 1970s.

The downtube shifters are a fun retro touch, while the rear rack and chain guard make this bike practical as well as stylish. It’s highly unusual to see a Brooks B17 saddle on a bike at this price point, and we like it for both the retro look and comfort.

Specialized Diverge E5

Versatility is the name of the game with the Diverge E5. A simple tire swap can change the bike’s entire character. Want to make the E5 go faster and feel sportier on the road? Throw on some 32mm rubber. Want more off-road capability? The Diverge has clearance for up to 700x47mm or 650bx2.1-inch tires—about the same tire width as a 90s-era mountain bike.

Have a long-distance adventure in mind? There are mounts for all the frame bags that you could ever want, and then some—plus fender mounts! The Diverge E5 can be a road bike, gravel bike, drop-bar mountain bike, touring bike, or even an adventure bike.

Salsa Journeyer Claris

Salsa’s Journeyer models are great all-around road bikes. Available with 700c x 38mm or 650b x 47mm tires for those who want to ride on rougher terrain, the Journeyer can be used for anything from road riding to gravel, to bikepacking, or commuting. This Salsa’s aluminum frame and fork accept rack, fenders, and other accessories for any kind of riding.

Specialized Allez Sport

An upgraded version of Specialized’s entry-level road bike, the Allez Sport saves significant weight off the base model. The frame also provides a snappier ride that transmits the feel of the road in a palpable, but not overbearing way. While it won’t be confused with its carbon cousins, this well-rounded and capable road bike is sure to please many cyclists.

READ SPECIALIZED ALLEZ SPORT REVIEW

Giant TCR Advanced 2 Pro Compact

This is our pick for a budget-oriented lightweight, reactive race bike. There's just one catch: it's got rim brakes instead of disc brakes. The good news is that rim brakes, while no longer in vogue, stop a bike just fine. The brakes themselves and the wheels they work with are also lighter than their disc-compatible corollaries—a key advantage at this price point. The total package is a bike we love riding and one that will serve many riders capably.

Trek Émonda ALR

Trek’s Émonda ALR is up there with some of the best aluminum race bikes. It features an impeccably finished and well-designed aluminum frame that’s only a few grams heavier than Treks’ mid-tier carbon Émondas. Plus, the Émonda ALR shares geometry with its pricier siblings, so you get the same quick handling and adaptable fit.

REAR FULL ÉMONDA ALR 5 REVIEW

Canyon Endurace CF 8 Disc

German brand Canyon was one of the first to prioritize delivering bikes directly to consumers without relying on a network of shops. That business model may also allow Canyon to offer greater value than some of its competitors.

This bike comes with a cable-actuated Shimano Ultegra drivetrain which delivers crisp, precise shifts. The Endurace has slightly more relaxed geometry—perfect for riders who aren’t highly flexible, but who still want to push a bike hard around corners and get low on occasion.

Cervelo Caledonia 105

Cerevelo’s do-it-all Caledonia checks a lot of boxes: it’s got a comfortable, semi-upright fit and aerodynamic frame tube shapes. The bike’s geometry skews closer to that of a gravel bike, making the Caledonia more stable, and with space for 34mm tires, you can ride this bike from pavement to moderate dirt and gravel roads. You can even mount fenders if you regularly ride in wet conditions, and want a bento box bag for extra snack capacity. This model comes with a 2x crank, but can also be set up with a 1x drivetrain if you prefer.

Cannondale SuperSix Evo 3

This is the fourth generation of Cannondale’s race-bred SuperSix Evo. In our testing, the SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod (a lighter-weight variant of this frame) was among our favorite bikes, winning us over with its amazing handling and overall speedy feeling.

Updates to the bike have made it more aerodynamic: The headtube now has an hourglass shape that flows beautifully into the fork. The seat tube was also redesigned to work with a new proprietary seatpost. New cable routing on the Evo’s handlebar entirely hides the brake hoses from view.

READ FULL CANNONDALE SUPERSIX EVO REVIEW

Ari Veyo SL Pro

The name has changed, but the value has not! Formerly known as Fezzari, this Utah-based direct-to-consumer brand has consistently delivered bikes that ride great and offer an impressive value when compared to bikes from other brands that have a similar component spec.

The Veyo, the brand's latest lightweight aero road bike, boasts a claimed frame weight of 860 grams. It has easy-to-work-on cable integration and aerodynamic shaping. Bottom line: There is a lot to like here for riders looking for a race-oriented bike.

READ FULL ARI VEYO REVIEW

Bianchi Specialissima Comp 105 Di2

This all-purpose road bike is designed for the cyclist who is getting faster, enjoys racing and group rides, and needs a fast bike that can keep up with them. Bianchi was once a leading road bike brand, and while the celeste-green bikes are less common than they once were, the brand retains its Italian heritage.

Thankfully, the brand did not retain pesky Italian attributes like an Italian-threaded bottom bracket. This bike comes with a Shimano drivetrain, instead of the Campagnolo drivetrain you would have once expected on this bike. That’s a benefit to riders—Shimano’s parts are as ubiquitous as they are effective.

Cervélo S5 Force

The Cervelo Soloist was one of the first aero road bikes and helpedˇ bring wind-slicing technology to road bikes for the first time. Now known as the S series, this bike has been raced to wins at some of the biggest races in the world by the stars of Cervélo sponsored Visma-Lease a Bike Pro team.

True to its heritage, the S5 is a professional-level bike designed for those who love to go fast. Every shape on this bike is designed to slip through the air with the least resistance, and you will feel the speed while riding. It can’t turn you into Jonas, Wout, Marianne, or Sepp, but it does help you have fun trying!

READ FULL CÉRVELO S5 REVIEW

Factor Ostro VAM Shimano Dura-Ace

Factor is a newer consumer brand, but the company has been manufacturing frames for other brands for a long time. The brand is now offering its carbon manufacturing expertise directly to consumers. The Ostro VAM has aerodynamic shaping and fast handling geometry that will help you slice your way through a peloton.

With Dura-Ace components and Black Inc. wheels, this bike is light enough that you won’t notice it as you float your way up the steepest climbs just like the pros of Israel-Premier Tech and Parkhotel Valkenburg teams.

Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL8 Dura-Ace Di2

Specialized’s eighth-generation Tarmac road race bike combines the best attributes of the brand’s svelte Aethos road bike and the aerodynamics of its discontinued Venge aero road bike. The result is the Tarmac SL8, which rides beautifully and is one of the smoothest, fastest race bikes on the market. Yes, the cost is astronomical, but if you have the funds, this model should be on your short list.

Disc Brakes Are the Norm

Disc brakes are now common on the vast majority of road bikes. If you haven’t bought a bike in the last 10 years, this may come as a surprise, but you’ll be glad for the change. Disc brakes give you more control, consistent slowing power, and better performance in wet conditions. Less-expensive bikes have cable-actuated disc brakes which work well but need more maintenance. More expensive bikes have hydraulic disc brakes which work even better and require less maintenance.

You’ll still find rim brakes from Shimano, SRAM, Tektro, or Avid on some inexpensive road bikes. For cyclists who aren't limited by budget and who still want rim brakes—maybe for the easier maintenance or lighter weight—SRAM and Shimano do still offer high-performance rim brakes to match their high-end component groups. These brakes will serve most cyclists well—everyone used them for decades without issue—but they do require more adjustments. The primary use for these brakes is on custom bikes—very few brands offer their high-performance frame sets in rim-brake versions.

Tire Clearance

There was a time when 28mm tires made a road bike look like someone had squeezed monster truck tires onto a Porsche and left out the lift kit. That size is now quite common on road bikes because we know that 28mm tires give most riders an optimized mix of traction, minimal rolling resistance, road vibration damping, and aerodynamics (depending on the frame’s characteristics).

Also, 28mm tires will fit comfortably on nearly any modern road bike largely thanks to disc brakes that don’t restrict tire size the way outmoded rim brakes do. Many frames will let you mount a tire as wide at 35mm so you can make your ride more comfortable if you desire, or optimize your rig for rides that mix pavement with moderate dirt or gravel.

Whether you choose to ride 28mm tires, bump up to 35mm, or if for some reason you want to stick with the 19mm tires of yesteryear, be sure to note the tire manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure and inflate accordingly. Too much pressure and you’ll bounce all over the road. Too little and you risk flatting.

Frame Materials

Carbon fiber composite and aluminum alloy are the most common materials used in road bike frames and forks. Almost all bikes that cost more than $2,500 are made of carbon fiber. This material is strong, durable, light, and tunable. More than any other material, carbon allows frame engineers to micro-tune areas of a frame with specific attributes, creating stiff or cushioned rides. Carbon frames can also be molded into eye-catching shapes.

You can also find bikes made of steel, titanium, or even bamboo, hardwood, or magnesium if you prefer something less-common. All frame materials have their own unique qualities, and any will serve you well.

At less-expensive price points, you’ll find bikes made of aluminum or steel. And at the very high end, you can find a bike made from any material you like!

My great-grandfather was a tailor. I mention this because his profession meant that I received inter-generational knowledge about how one was supposed to shop for—and wear—the dress clothes that were popular in Eastern European at the turn of the 20th century. The knowledge was pretty much completely wasted on me as I entered a career of working at Bicycling and wearing t-shirts to the office, but the principles of sizing up a dress shirt or suit and sizing up a bike are largely the same: you start with the tape measure.

For a shirt, you get measured around your neck and from the center of the top of your back to your wrist. For a bike, there are several important measurements: inseam, femur length, torso length, reach, as well as how flexible you are.

Bikes are sold in sizes and different types of fits, and they’re also highly adjustable. You will notice that some bikes are labeled with a number that refers to the length of the seat tube. The most common sizes are between 48- and 59cm, usually in 2-centimeter increments.

Other brands label their bikes like clothes—xs, s, m, l, xl. Any shop should be able to fit you to a properly sized bike, regardless of how it’s labeled. Once you know your size, it’s worth considering a bike fit with a professional fitter. A fitter will help you get the bike’s many adjustable features perfectly set so that you can enjoy more comfortable miles.

How Many Speeds?

In the past, many riders would refer to the total number of gears on their drivetrain as how many “speeds” their bike had. “Speed” is another way of saying “gear.” If you had a “10-speed bike,” this meant your bicycle’s drivetrain had five cogs at the rear hub and two chainrings on the crank (5 x 2 = 10).

Now, however, when cyclists or bicycle brands say a bike is 10-speed, they mean the bike has ten cogs at the rear hub. Most bikes have one or two front chainrings, although you can still find the odd triple, especially on touring bikes designed to be weighed down with heavy loads.

Bikes priced less than $1,500 usually have 10-, 9-, or 8-speed drivetrains. With fewer gears, you’ll notice changes between gears more. The more speeds you have, the smoother the transition between gears generally feels. On higher-priced bikes, SRAM, Shimano, and Campagnolo feature 12 cassettes, usually paired with one or two front chainrings.

Many road bikes reviewed by Bicycling feature two chainrings and 11 or 12 rear cogs. But there are other drivetrain configurations.

Another drivetrain you might find is called 1x (pronounced one-by). Popularized by SRAM, this drivetrain is often found on mountain, gravel, and cyclocross bikes, but a few road bikes utilize a 1x drivetrain.

A 1x system does not use a front shifter or derailleur and often offers an equivalent range as a 2x system, but 1x systems have larger jumps between gears. The 1x's advantages are simplicity and fewer dropped chains when shifting. There are also marginal aerodynamics gains compared to a drivetrain with more than one chainring.

Triple cranksets (3x) are rarely found on new road bikes as the gear ranges currently offered by 2x and 1x systems match or exceed the gear spread previously seen on triples.

Electronic vs Mechanical

These days, most high-end road bikes—those $3,500 or more—come with electronic shifting by default, either Shimano Di2 or SRAM AXS (you’ll have to seek out a Campagnolo EPS bike if you want to ride Italian components; very few bikes come with those parts).

Bikes costing less are still equipped with mechanical shifting. While mechanical shifting systems may not have all the cool features of electronic shifting, modern systems work very well. With proper adjustment, these systems can shift just as precisely as an electronic group.

Electronic shifting has several benefits beyond smooth, precise shifts. There are no cables to stretch, so there’s less maintenance. SRAM’s AXS shifting is wireless, so you don’t even have to route anything through the frame.

Battery life is a limiting factor with electronic shifting. Depending on how much you ride, you’ll have to charge your batteries every month or so – but the many advantages of electronic shifting outweigh this one drawback.

Both of the two major component brands—SRAM and Shimano—offer cyclists multiple levels of road drivetrains. The nomenclature surrounding the various options can sometimes be confusing.

Below are the two major component brands and their component groups (in descending price order). We’ve also included information about Campagnolo’s offerings, although the Italian brand is not nearly as prominent as it once was.

Generally speaking, more expensive groups use more carbon and machined aluminum (versus stamped aluminum or steel) parts to achieve lighter weight and better performance. More expensive component groups will likely have more options for crank lengths and gear sizing.

.css-1dxgn05{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;background-color:#ffffff;border:0;border-bottom:none;border-top:0.0625rem solid #E5E5E5;color:#000;cursor:pointer;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;padding-bottom:0.3125rem;padding-top:0.3125rem;scroll-margin-top:0rem;text-align:left;width:100%;}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1dxgn05{scroll-margin-top:3.375rem;}} .css-b4ahb2{border-radius:50%;width:1.875rem;border:thin solid #737373;height:1.875rem;padding:0.4rem;margin-right:0.625rem;} .css-jlx6sx{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;width:0.9375rem;height:0.9375rem;margin-right:0.625rem;-webkit-transform:rotate(90deg);-moz-transform:rotate(90deg);-ms-transform:rotate(90deg);transform:rotate(90deg);-webkit-transition:-webkit-transform 250ms ease-in-out;transition:transform 250ms ease-in-out;} Shimano

Dura-Ace → Ultegra→ 105 Di2 → 105 → Tiagra → Sora → Claris

The latest Dura-Ace, Ultegra, and 105 drivetrains from Shimano are all 12-speeds. Dura-Ace and Ultegra are both electronic, while the lower-cost 105 group is available as either 12-speed electronic or 12- or 11-speed mechanical.

Some bikes that blur the line between road and gravel might use GRX gravel components. The new GRX group has 12-speed mechanical shifting. (Previous generation 11-speed Di2 and 11- and 10-speed mechanical variants are also still found on some bikes.)

SHIMANO DURA-ACE AND ULTEGRA REVIEW   SHIMANO 105 DI2 INFO SRAM RIVAL AXS VS SHIMANO 105 DI2   SHIMANO GRX REVIEW

Red AXS → Force AXS → Rival AXS → Apex AXS →Apex

SRAM’s electronic shifting, 12-speed drivetrain is named AXS. SRAM also offers a 12-speed mechanical shifting Apex group.

SRAM FORCE AXS REVIEW   SRAM RIVAL AXS REVIEW   SRAM APEX AXS REVIEW

Super Record Wireless → Super Record → Record → Chorus

Campy recently released its new 12-speed Wireless electronic groupset and discontinued its EPS (wired) electronic shifting groups, though you might still find these on some bikes. Super Record, Record, and Chorus are all 12-speed mechanical shifting drivetrains. Campagnolo also offers a 13-speed 1x-only groupset named Ekar, which is primarily found on gravel bikes.

CAMPY SUPER RECORD WIRELESS INFO

Want to learn how to better shift gears? Or more about electronic shifting? Check out our guide to better shifting here . And if you're considering electronic shifting read all about it here .

Expert Andrew Bernstein, Who Rides His Specialized Turbo Creo Around the Steep Dirt Roads Where He Lives, Shares What to Have Along for the Ride, and Why Bikes Seem So Expensive Nowadays.

What accessories will i need.

Accessories will depend on what you need to support the way you ride, but there are definitely a few items I recommend: A pair of bib shorts or bike shorts will make any ride more comfortable and fun. 

You’ll definitely want to carry a spare tire, CO2 inflator or mini-pump, or other means to repair a flat tire. I also suggest a rear-facing red light that’s bright enough to be seen in daylight.

Why does it feel like bikes are so expensive now?

While you can spend more than ever before on the top end, there are still plenty of lower-cost models available. If it feels like you’re getting less for the same amount of money, keep a couple things in mind: First of all, yes, inflation has driven up the cost of all goods, including bikes. But also: you’re getting a lot more value than you did 10 or 20 years ago.

In 2010, a $3,000 bike likely would have come with Shimano Ultegra-level components. That same bike now probably comes with 105, but you also get a stiff, compliant carbon fiber frame that will ride better than earlier bikes, powerful hydraulic disc brakes, slick-looking internal cable routing, and dependable 12-speed shifting, instead of 10-speed. In fact, I’d choose a 2024 105 group over a 2010 Ultegra group any day!

What bike do you ride?

Mostly, I ride a Specialized Turbo Creo e-gravel bike to crush the steep dirt roads above Boulder. I also ride a Yuba Spicy Curry around town. When I feel strong and want to ride sans-motor, I reach for either a Canyon Endurace or my 2013-vintage Specialized Venge.

Andrew “Bernie” Bernstein is a former Bicycling Magazine Gear Editor, and Bicycling marketing manager. While at Bicycling, he promoted the Bicycling Fall Classic, and the famed Fifth Street Cross Thursday Night Training Series. Bernie was an elite track and road racer from 2010-2019. In 2019, he was hit by a driver near his home in Boulder, CO. The crash nearly killed him and left him with paraplegia. He considers himself very lucky to still now be able to hike, and ride with the help of an e-gravel bike. He’s written about his experience as a paracyclist disabled athletes for Men’s Health, Bicycling, and Outside Magazine. You can follow his adventures on Instagram .

Test Editor Dan Chabanov got his start in cycling as a New York City bike messenger but quickly found his way into road and cyclocross racing, competing in professional cyclocross races from 2009 to 2019 and winning a Master’s National Championship title in 2018. Prior to joining Bicycling in 2021, Dan worked as part of the race organization for the Red Hook Crit, as a coach with EnduranceWERX, as well as a freelance writer and photographer. 

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Road Bikes

The Best Commuter Bikes for Getting Around Town

Tested: Trek's Carback Bicycle Radar Light

SRAM Red AXS 2024—What's New, What's Not

SRAM Launches its New Red AXS Road Group

SRAM Red AXS 2024—Should You Upgrade?

There’s Nothing Quite Like 3T’s Strada Italia

The Hottest Road and Gravel Bikes for Spring

2024’s Best and Most Exciting Bikes!

2024’s Best Road Bikes

Reviewed: BMC‘s Fast and Unique Teammachine R 01

Best Hybrid Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

• Sports & Outdoors
• Mountain Bikes

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Return this item for free

We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select your preferred free shipping option
• Drop off and leave!

Return instructions

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Oops! Something went wrong.

Schwinn bonafide men and women mountain bike, front suspension, 24-speed, 29-inch wheels, 17-inch aluminum frame, matte black/red, purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• 17-inch aluminum mountain frame with high-performance suspension fork effectively absorb bumps and thumps, while the 29-inch wheels fit to riders 5'4 to 6'2 inches tall
• Effortless gear change with 24-speed trigger shifters and front and rear derailleurs
• Front and rear mechanical disc brakes deliver precise stopping power in any condition, while the durable alloy cranks ensure reliable gearing and reduced maintenance hassle
• For enhanced durability, the high-profile double-wall alloy rims offer a combination of lightness and strength, while the 2.25-inch wide knobby mountain tires are prepared to tackle rough and uneven biking
• Arrives partially assembled, will require tools, Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrench 2.5mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, & 8mm, an adjustable wrench, and pair of pliers with cable cutting ability

Frequently bought together

You might also like

From the manufacturer

Hit the trail:

Lightweight, durable and ready for action, trail mountain bikes are built to handle tough, rocky trails and soak up all the bumps along the way. If you love the crisp air and natural beauty of the great outdoors, a trail MTB is the ride for you. Do more, ride harder and rip faster on these capable bikes that are itching to hit the trail. That mountain's not so scary anymore, is it?

The 29-Inch Men's Bonafide, from Schwinn.

Big and bona fide.

With big 29" tires and high profile alloy rims, this hardtail mountain bike is built for the trail. The alloy rims add durability without weighing you down, and the aluminum frame furthers the cause. With the lightweight frame and a powerful front suspension fork, you'll glide through trails and knife through brush as you lead the pack. With color-matching end plugs and rims, this 29er looks as cool as it rides. Owning the trail has never been this easy.

• 24-speed trigger shifters and front and rear derailleurs offer a wide gear range for varying terrain
• Front and rear mechanical disc brakes provide crisp all-condition stopping out on the trail

Schwinn is the original American bike brand. Over the years, Schwinn has empowered millions of people, earning a special place in the hearts and minds of generations of riders. We have spent over a century building the bicycle industry into what it is today, and we’re not done yet.

Product Description

Founded in 1895, Schwinn is an American icon, building some of the best known and best loved bicycles of all time. From its very beginning in Chicago, Illinois, the Schwinn mission has been to develop bicycles that allow people to experience the confidence and freedom that comes from riding a bike. The Schwinn Bonafied Mountain Bike features an aluminum mountain frame and a powerful Schwinn suspension fork that soaks up bumps and thumps to provide you with a fun, durable riding experience. 24 speed Shimano EZ Fire trigger shifters and front and rear Shimano derailleurs make gear changes easy and smooth. Front and rear mechanical disc brakes provide crisp all condition stopping out on the trail. Durable Schwinn alloy cranks provide steady gearing and less pesky maintenance. High profile double wall alloy rims are light and strong for added durability. 2.25 inch wide knobby mountain tires are ready for bumpy terrain. This bike ships ready to be assembled. The wheels measure 29 inches.

Product information

Technical details, additional information, videos for this product.

Click to play video

Schwinn Bonafide Testified

Guillermo Chaparro

Best bike for the money !

Setting It Up

Amazon Product Imaging

Looking for specific info?

Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the bicycle. However, some customers have reported that the bicycle was defective from the start and not fixable. They also dislike the sturdiness. Opinions are mixed on comfort, size, gears, ease of assembly, and brake.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the bicycle. They mention that it's a very good bike, the gears shift well, and the tires are nice. Some say that it looks great and rides well for the price. Overall, most are happy with their purchase and recommend it as an excellent all-around bike.

"Great bike light and great looking. Just getting into mtb. Damn good starter . If you’re a casual biker. All you will need...." Read more

" Good bike for the price ;cons: Seat is super hard consider upgrading it, The tires seem kinda cheap Breaks squeak a lot..." Read more

"...He was able to get it to wi k and it broke again. Very cheaply and will be returning for a refund." Read more

" The bike looks great . Black and orange colors are very very cool, looks mean. 29" wheels are huge but very light weight...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of assembly of the bicycle. Some mention it's very easy to assemble, while others say the assembling guidance is too simple, and the instructions are not user friendly. Some say the bike is almost completely assembled, while other say the front fork was backwards and they were unable to install the front tire.

" Great bike smooth feel easy to assemble love this bike" Read more

"The only thing is directions are very hard to read and not easy to assemble!!" Read more

"Bike had been delivered. Looked good and I was happy. Easy to assembly !..." Read more

" 30 minutes to assemble , added air in the tires, replaced the seat. And I've now put roughly 25 miles on it. Brakes are real good for manual disc...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the gears of the bicycle. Some mention that the gear shifts smoothly, while others say that the shifting is sloppy and dangerous to ride.

"...The breaks are good, the gears shift well , and the tires are nice.However it is quite heavy, and the handlebar came inverted." Read more

"...The bike handles kinda numb Grips dont really grip they shift position constantlyPros..." Read more

"...Brakes are real good for manual disc. Shifts extremely smooth . I'm 6'5 260 and (with the new seat) is extremely comfortable to ride...." Read more

"...Only now my hands kept sliding off the handlebars because of the blood steadily flowing over the grips...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the brake. Some mention that the brakes are very assuring, responsive, and provide excellent stopping power when properly tuned. However, others say that the front disc brake was very finicky and the entire crank system is not working.

"...differently than someone else who is tall, so this did not work for the gift recipient ...." Read more

"...and adjusted the power and now very assuring braking power . Seat hurt a lot so bought a new seat at Amazon...." Read more

"...The only complaints I have is that the front disc brake was very finicky when putting the front wheel on... as well as the actual size of the..." Read more

"...The bike is light and powerful , but wheel base is just too close and I find the fork angle too steep...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the comfort of the bicycle. Some mention it's very comfortable to ride, feels like a mountain bike, and is very handy on the trail. However, others say that the seat is uncomfortable, hard, and hurts a lot. The suspension feels extremely soft, and some customers also get hand numbness from riding too long.

"Good bike for the price;cons: Seat is super hard consider upgrading it, The tires seem kinda cheap Breaks squeak a lot..." Read more

"...Its comfortable seems like it will last a while.The wider 2.25 tires are nice going over uneven surfaces...." Read more

"... Seat hurt a lot so bought a new seat at Amazon. Bike is very fast at downhill...." Read more

"...a Bike mechanic put it together and it's awesome to ride and feels really safe under me . I would recommend this bikes to everyone." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the bicycle. Some mention that the 29" wheels are huge, but very light weight, and they love the big tires. However, others say that the bike is not large enough, the frame was not designed for 29" tires, and there is not enough space for the 29 inch wheel to turn without hitting their body.

"...Even the frame is only 17" medium, it is big . I'm 6'. With 29" tires, even 17" frame feels like a very big bike. Very tall...." Read more

"...Having a great time with this bike. Love the 29" wheels . I rode a lot on Schwinn bikes until I was 17...." Read more

"...This bike is a massive bike , so if you are a smaller or average person.. this bike is a lot to handle...." Read more

"...UPDATE: The bike tire size is an issue. Its hard to find the correct tube size , and requires a long valve stem for the rims...." Read more

Customers are not satisfied with the sturdiness of the bicycle. They mention that the rear axel has already broken, the chain broke on their first ride, and the derailer broke the first time it was riden. The lower bracket as the bearing assembly broke up, and it falls apart quickly. Customers also mention that they call customer service line was so long and no response.

"Theres only one thing they Assemble thr left break cable wrong and the gears needed to be adjusted they wouldn't shift to a higher gear and that..." Read more

"Bought this bike for my son and the pedal broke putting it together . He was able to get it to wi k and it broke again...." Read more

"...ProsGears come very well calibrated from factory break feel is great Front suspension on pointLooks awesomeNot very heavy" Read more

"...As I pushed on the pedals the chain had completely come off and I rapidly lost control of the bike, supermanning over the handlebars and onto the..." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the bicycle's fixability. They mention that it's not fixable, has multiple mistakes, and is unusable. Some say the bike was manufactured incorrectly with multiple mistakes. Overall, some find the bicycle frustrating and hard to get use to.

"...The rear rim ended up being wonky and unfixable also. I do ride this thing very hard...." Read more

"...Large button on right up shifts while on the left it down shifts. Hard to get use to " Read more

"...Crank was bad, stripped / poorly tapped to begin with. UNUSABLE . Unhappy kid. Remember your most disappointing Xmas?..." Read more

"...chain, we were dissappointed that the bike was manufactured incorrectly with multiple mistakes ..." Read more

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Saturn Stadium
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Eastern Europe
• Moscow Oblast

Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Area, Altitude, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

Information

Find all the information of Elektrostal or click on the section of your choice in the left menu.

• Update data

Elektrostal Demography

Information on the people and the population of Elektrostal.

Elektrostal Geography

Geographic Information regarding City of Elektrostal .

Elektrostal Distance

Distance (in kilometers) between Elektrostal and the biggest cities of Russia.

Elektrostal Map

Locate simply the city of Elektrostal through the card, map and satellite image of the city.

Elektrostal Nearby cities and villages

Elektrostal weather.

Weather forecast for the next coming days and current time of Elektrostal.

Elektrostal Sunrise and sunset

Find below the times of sunrise and sunset calculated 7 days to Elektrostal.

Elektrostal Hotel

Our team has selected for you a list of hotel in Elektrostal classified by value for money. Book your hotel room at the best price.

Elektrostal Nearby

Below is a list of activities and point of interest in Elektrostal and its surroundings.

The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

<< Previous page

Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

Shopping Cart Items: 0 Cart Total: 0,00 € place your order

Price pdf version

student - 2,75 € individual - 3,00 € institutional - 7,00 €

Copyright В© 1999-2022. Stratum Publishing House