Btwin Riverside 100 (2018) - Review

The Btwin Riverside 1 is a traditional steel bodied hybrid bicycle. Though often heavier than alloy frames, steel frames are known to be sturdy and durable. The frame has been ergonomically designed with a lowered frame geometry enabling easier mounting and dismounting. This bicycle has been classified as a unisex hybrid bicycle. The design of the bicycle frame allows for an upright, open-chested, comfortable riding position. The bicycle has a rigid fork and is available in three sizes - Small, Medium and Large. The Small bicycle weighs 13.9 kgs, the medium is 14.1 kgs and the large is 14.3kgs. This bicycle has a rigid steel fork.

The Btwin Riverside 1 is a six-speed bicycle that is ideal for city commuting and leisure riding on weekends. The rear derailleur on this bicycle is a Shimano TZ-2, and the shifting is controlled by Microshift 6-Speed grip shifters. Given it's price point, these components are expected. When it comes to performance, the shifting was relatively smooth while shifting up, however with downshifting, I experienced some lag in the changing. The range of gears in sufficient for city-based commuting and occasional longer distance leisure riding.

The Btwin Riverside 1 is a simple, no frills bicycle in terms of the design of the bicycle. The paint job on the bicycle is a simple white body with branding and decals, detailed in simple blocks and lines. Overall, this bicycle has been designed keeping in line with clean aesthetics and simplicity. This bicycle is available in a single colour option. Given the present market demands, it would have been great to see this bicycle available with a few colour options.

The Btwin Riverside 1 comes equipped with V-Brakes at the front and back. The Brake levers are well placed on the handlebar to ensure comfortable reach to use them. The stopping power is adequate for a city bicycle, and is sufficient to bring the bicycle to a complete stop without requiring extra effort. However, I feel that when riding on slippery or wet terrains, the breaking might not be as responsive. The semi-raised, 62mm wide handlebar on this bicycle ensures supreme control when on the saddle. Additionally, a wide handlebar allows for an ‘open-chested’, comfortable riding position.It also allows for easy maneuvering in crowded riding conditions. The handlebar on this bicycle is welded to the stem, enabling better control and stability of the bicycle. Additionally, the stem is height adjustable.

The Btwin Riverside 1 is equipped with Duro Cordoba hybrid/trail 7x42c tires that are fast rolling and lightly threaded. They are slightly broader than traditional tires on hybrids, but this is considerably helpful on rugged and bumpy roads. These tires allow one to shift from road riding to flat trails and rugged paths effortlessly. The Btwin Sport 1 Ergofit saddle is made using foam. The saddle is soft ensuring a comfortable ride. The saddle will be comfortable for city commuting as well as leisure riding on a regular basis. Longer duration rides, over an hour long, might have the one feel slight discomfort on the sit bones. The only slight downside here is that while the seat height is adjustable, there is no quick release for the seat post, it uses the traditional ‘nut and bolt’ system. However, this does not affect the overall performance of the bicycle.