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(More customer reviews)I'm a long time motorcycle technician and tech editor of a national motorcycle publication. I haven't owned a bicycle in a long time, but I know a quality two wheeler when I see one - and when I don't. With this bicycle, I don't. Is it serviceable? Yes. But for how long, I couldn't predict. The bike is shipped with the seat, handlebar, and front wheel not installed. You must install these parts as well as others, but the manual covers two other models with only passing reference to parts of this bike that are similar. The wheels both have a lot of axial runout. The front wheel bearings were over tightened and turned very roughly. Regreasing and readjustment cured that, but it revealed what has to be the lowest quality bearings I've ever seen in any application. The bearing adjustment locknut was frozen on one end of the axle, so all adjustment was done from the other side. The slot for the axle in the fork bottoms was deeper on one fork than the other. This caused the wheel to be cocked in the forks and prevented brake adjustment. The importer is sending me a new fork, though I suspect I'll find the same issue - lack of quality control. I offset the axle in the fork to center the wheel, and all seems well. But the fitment is a quick release type, so a hard bump could shift it back and cause brakes to bind. On initial test ride, the chain kept jumping off the sprockets - first on the front, then the rear. Adjustment from scratch was required, with very poor instructions that really didn't apply to this particular model. But it works. Fenders are the flimsiest plastic things I've ever seen, and no instructions whatsoever for installing the front one. They both flop around like crazy while riding. All in all? A low grade Chinese made product that will provide the casual user with exercise and local transportation, but don't plan on riding any marathons. Considering that similar designs with higher quality sell for $750 or more, this bike is probably priced about where it belongs.
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Boasting a laid-back 19-inch steel frame that delivers unmatched comfort, the Polaris Sportsman men's comfort cruiser is a great fit for both casual afternoon trips to the grocery store and in-city commutes. The bike offers such features as an ultra-dependable Shimano 21-speed drive train, Shimano twist shifters for easy and accurate gear changes, and a front suspension system that guarantees a smooth ride. The cushioned spring saddle and cruiser-style handlebars, meanwhile, will keep you in all-day comfort. Other details include Shimano derailleurs, alloy linear brakes, and aluminum wheels.
Amazon.com Bicycle Buying Guide Finding the Right Bike To really enjoy cycling, it's important to find a bicycle that works for you. Here are some things to keep in mind when you're in the market for a new bike:
The Right Ride In general, bikes are broken down into three major categories:
Road and Racing Bikes--As a general rule, road and racing are built for speed and longer distances on paved surfaces. Thinner tires, lightweight 29-inch (700c) wheels, and drop bars that allow for a more aerodynamic position are the norm. Most road bikes, regardless of price, offer many gears for tackling both hilly and flat terrain.
Mountain Bikes--With their larger tires, hill-friendly gearing, and upright position, mountain bikes are very popular for all types of riding, both on pavement and off. Mountain bikes that are designed specifically for rugged trail use typically feature a suspension fork. Some may have rear suspension, as well. A quick change of the tires on any mountain bike--even one that you use regularly on trails--adds to its versatility and makes it a worthy street machine.
Comfort/Cruiser Bikes--For tooling around on bike paths, light trails, or for cruising a quiet beach-side lane, comfort/cruiser bikes are the ticket. With a super-relaxed riding position, padded seats, and limited or no gearing, these bikes are made for enjoying the scenery and having fun with the family.
The Right Price A bike's price boils down to three essentials: frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.
Entry-level--You'll find a wide range of comfort and cruiser bikes in this category, as well as some lower-end mountain bikes and road bikes. Most will have steel frames and components that are designed to last for several years with frequent use.
Mid-range--Bikes in this range may feature a lighter aluminum frame with mid-range components that keep performing after miles of use. If you're looking for a quality bike that is relatively lightweight and will stand up to abuse, this is the "sweet spot." Most serious commuter and touring bikes fall into this category, as do mid-range mountain bikes with a decent front suspension.
High-end--Racers and serious enthusiasts who expect lightweight, high-performance components will want to stick to this category. For road bikes, exotic frame materials (carbon fiber, titanium) and ultra lightweight components can add thousands to the price tag. Mountain bikes in this class often feature advanced front and rear suspension technology, as well as components designed to handle lots of rugged trail action.
The Right Size Fit is crucial for comfort, control, and proper power and endurance on a bike. Here are some basic bike fit tips:
Stand-over Height--To find out if a bike's overall height fits your body, measure your inseam. Next, determine how much clearance you'll need between your crotch and the top tube of the bike. For a mountain bike, you'll want three to five inches of clearance. A road bike should offer between one and two inches of clearance, while a commuter bike should have two to four inches. Compare the stand-over height for a given bike to your measurements (inseam + clearance) to determine the right bike height.
Top Tube Length--You can measure your torso to get a good estimate of proper top tube length. First, make a fist and extend your arm. Measure from the center of your fist to the end of your collarbone (the part that intersects your shoulder). Next, measure your torso by placing a book against your crotch with the spine facing up. Measure from the spine to the bottom of your throat (the spot between your collarbones). Finally, add the two measurements (arm length + torso length), divide the number in half, and subtract six inches. This is your approximate top tube length. Compare this number to a bike's posted top tube length. You can allow for about two inches longer or shorter, as most bikes can be adjusted via stem length/height and saddle fore/aft position to make fine adjustments to the fit.
Bikes for Women--Proportionally, women tend to have a shorter torso and longer legs than men. Bike makers design women's bikes that offer a shorter top tube and many comfort/cruiser bikes built for women may also provide more stand-over clearance.
The Right Accessories When you make a bike purchase, don't forget these crucial add-ons:
Helmet (this is a must!)
Seat pack
Lock
Hydration pack, or water bottle and bottle cage
Spare tubes
Portable bike pump
Gloves
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