Firefox Karma - Review

The Firefox Karma has been made using a hybrid alloy frame, which is durable, sturdy and lightweight. The frame geometry has been ergonomically designed to be well-suited to women riders. The downward sloping top tube enables easy mounting and dismounting from the bicycle. The frame has a provision for a bottle holder to be attached to it. The Firefox Karma comes with a Zoom front suspension fork. This suspension fork has 4mm travel, which is the most basic amount of travel one can expect out of a suspension fork. However, given that this is a hybrid bicycle to be used in cities and on longer rides on flat surfaces, the said travel will work fine to absorb shocks felt over potholes and other bumps on rugged city roads.

The Firefox Karma comes equipped with Shimano Tourney derailleurs at the front and the back. The shifting is controlled by Shimano EF5 trigger shifters, which are well placed on the handlebar and are accessible with no strain. When on the test ride, the gears shifted with ease, allowing for smooth, seamless shifting, with no delay or lag between the shifts.Note - The Firefox Karma now comes with a Microshift Mezzo 21-Speed drivetrain</I>

The Firefox Karma has been designed keeping simplicity and elegance as the centric idea. The paint job on the bicycle is of superior quality evident from the top notch matte finish. The decals and minimal branding add to the overall pleasing aesthetics of this bicycle. The bicycle is sure to be a head turner while on the road. The bicycle is available in a two - a matte black with purple and blue decals and a matte black with dual-tone blue decals.

The Firefox Karma comes equipped with V-Brakes at the front and rear. The Shimano EF5 Brake Levers were well placed, well within reach, requiring two to three fingers to operate. The brake levers required only a light pull to ensure effective braking. The stoppage power of the brakes were adequate for city rides, however slightly more power, especially for abrupt stopping, would have been ideal. The Steel 6mm handlebar on the Firefox Karma, ensures a comfortable ‘open-chested’ position as well as supreme control and maneuverability of the bicycle in traffic and crowded riding conditions. The bar grips on this bicycle are super comfortable and will ensure that the riders palms and hands stay comfortable, especially on longer rides.

The Firefox Karma comes equipped with 7x35c hybrid tires. These tires were found to be fast rolling, making riding the bicycle on Indian City roads a breeze. The light reading on the tires ensures good grip, making it easier to ride on different road surfaces, and in varied weather conditions. Additionally, the front wheel has a Quick Release Option, allowing for easier removal of the wheel. However, the rear wheel does not have a Quick Release option.The Stock saddle on this bicycle was well cushioned, adding to the overall satisfaction of the ride quality. Furthermore, the saddle has a color coded streak down the center, to match the color on the frame of the bicycle and adds to the overall appeal of the bicycle. The saddle comes with a Quick release option, allowing for easy adjustment of the seat height while on the go.