Btwin Rockrider 560 27.5 (2017) - Review

The Btwin RockRider boasts of a RockRider CGF (Comfort geometry frame) Pro, 661 alloy frame. The design of the frame is comfort-oriented, and the material used makes it light weight, durable and sturdy. The geometry of the frame, and the “double-butted” front triangle makes it significantly lighter than most other MTBs in its range. The raised stem offers for a more comfortable, upright riding position. The performance of the Rock Shox XC3 suspension fork on this bicycle is commendable. When tested on trails, and bad roads, the shocks and vibrations were barely felt while on the saddle. The conical fork design offers greater rigidity on the handlebars when steering. Additionally, the fork is equipped with a lockout, which can be activated directly from the handlebars through the integrated combo lock shifter! Impressive? I think so.

The Btwin RockRider 56 is equipped with a complete SRAM drive train, which is rather impressive in terms of performance delivery – A SRAM S1 crankset with a hollow axle and double plate 24|38 teeth, A SRAM PG12 cassette, from 11-36 teeth and SRAM derailleurs. The front derailleur is the SRAM X5 2-Speed, and the rear derailleur is the SRAM X5 1-Speed, the shifting is controlled by 2x1 Speed SRAM X5 Shifters. The shifting was efficient, smooth and on point. The performance of the components used in this department is commendable.

Designed and created in Suzhou, China, the Btwin RockRider is sure to catch one's attention wherever it is – be it on the roads while riding, or on a rack at the store! Available in a single colour option – White with bright green and black detailing, simple yet eye-catching.

The Btwin RockRider 56 comes equipped with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 16mm rotors in the front and rear. The stopping power off these brakes make it an efficient all-weather bicycle. When tested on multiple surfaces, the stopping did not disappoint. The only point to keep in mind is that when ridden on muddy/slippery surfaces, the braking will require more control to avoid rear skidding while stopping. The braking on a descent was very efficient with a feather light grip on the brake levers. This bicycle comes equipped with a Btwin Sport oversized handlebar that offers more control over the steering and handling of the bicycle. This is a great feature, especially on an MTB when it comes to tacking downhill trails – added control and stability is a big plus with the bigger handlebars. The ergonomic, non-cylindrical handle grips are designed to provide a more comfortable, natural gripping position. The handles have integrated tightening rings.

The RockRider 56 comes equipped with Kenda 27.5” lightweight tires, made for dry terrain, with chunky treading designed to provide excellent gripping on turns and trails. These tires play their part on more MTB prone surfaces and produce adequate grip and traction. The rims have been designed with 28 spokes to bring down the weight, but guarantees strength and rigidity. The RockRider 56 comes equipped with an exclusive Btwin Ergofit Evo saddle which is supremely comfortable owing to its wider ""hammock"" shape, allowing good distribution of pressure points regardless of the rider's pelvis width. The saddle is said to have over 5 times greater shock absorbency than a traditional frame. The overall riding experience of the Btwin RockRider 56 was pleasing, the only point of contention I would have with this cycle is that owing to it being an MTB, it can get on the heavier side on flatter roads, requiring more effort to pedal.