Btwin Rockrider 520 S (2018) - Review

The Btwin Rockrider 52 S has been made using a Btwin Sport 661 alloy frame. This bicycle is a full suspension bicycle, meaning that it has a suspension fork in the front as well as on the frame, under the seat - for added shock absorption while on trails. Full-suspension bicycles tend to be heavier than single suspension MTBs, however the usage of an alloy frame makes this bicycle relatively lightweight for a full suspension bicycle. The frame geometry is a well-balanced combination of aggressiveness and comfort, making the bicycle perfect to tackle harsh trails with ease. This bicycle is available in 4 frame sizing options - S,M,L and XL. This bicycle has a Btwin U-Fit Hydraulic Suspension Fork with 12mm travel. The stiffness of the suspension fork can be adjusted according to one's weight by adjusting the wheel that's on the left side of the suspension fork. On the right side of the suspension fork is a suspension lock-out wheel that can be used to lock the suspension while on flat, smooth roads. The rear suspension mechanism on this bicycle is a Btwin U-Fit Spring rear suspension. The effectiveness of dual suspension can be felt when riding on rough, and rugged trails. When on the test ride, the suspension worked impressively to absorb shock felt from riding on harsh surfaces.

The Btwin Rockrider 52S comes equipped with a Shimano Tourney front derailleur and a SRAM X3 rear derailleur. While the question of the combination arises in terms of shifting precision, I found no evidence of a lag in the shifting when test riding this bicycle. The shifting is controlled by and SRAM X4 shifters. The 24-Speed shifting worked seamlessly, and the shifters were relatively responsive with upshifting and downshifting happening with ease.

When it comes to making good looking bicycles that stand out, Btwin has got it all figured out. The Btwin Rockrider 52 S is a case in point. The bicycle we rode had a black frame with red decals. The branding on the bicycle stands out in bold white lettering. The high quality paint job is a definite point of attention to detail by Btwin's designers.

The Btwin Rockrider 52 S comes equipped with Hayes MX5 Mechanical Disc Brakes which are connected to Tektro Aluminium Brake Levers. When tested, the braking was found to be powerful and efficient. Both power braking and progressive, feathered braking felt stable and balanced, even on sand. It is safe to say that these brakes will perform with efficiency and precision on dry and wet surfaces. This bicycle comes equipped with a Btwin Sport Oversize handlebar, 66mm (Small and Medium) and 68mm (Large and Extra large). The handlebar is on the longer side to allow superior balance and control of the bicycle when riding on harsh trails. The BTwin Sport ‘soft touch’ grips ensure a good grip and were well-cushioned and comfortable.

This bicycle comes equipped with a Btwin All-Terrain 27.5" x 2" tire in the front, and a 27.5" x 2.1" tire at the back. These tires are attached to double-walled aluminium Aero Trail Evo wheels. These tires were a mix of speed and traction on trails. On softer mud trails, these tires could roll over efficiently without sinking in. A tire liner might help protect from those punctures which otherwise cannot be avoided. The Btwin ergo fit saddle on this bicycle is perfectly designed for the trail rider. The ergonomic design makes sure soreness is the last thing you would have to worry about on an already shaky trail.