Firefox Patrol 6S - Review

The Firefox Patrol 6s is built on a strong alloy hardtail frame. This frame did feel a bit heavy when riding, especially over flyovers. The frame geometry is simple and not aggressive. The comfortable reach to the handlebar makes it easy to commute on urban roads. The bulky bottom tube helps handle a good amount of vibration of the surface. The front suspension is from Zoom and has minimal travel but was enough for taking on rough urban surfaces and flat trails.

The Patrol 6S that I test rode came with 6-Speed rear derailleur. This Shimano gearing is the most entry level as it can get on a geared bicycle. The 6-Speed drivetrain is just enough for urban commuting and flat trail rides. But with a 6-Speed there is a limit to speed gains and climbing on flyovers but for short rides it is ideal. The Revo shifters are old school but they worked well without any difficulty. A 21-Speed drivetrain would have been ideal for a better ride quality.

This bicycle which I test rode came in a full Olive Green colour with White graphics. The matte finish paint job quality is smooth and has nice finish to it. The ‘Swiss Military’ text graphics and logo on the top tube is new and refreshing. The welding on the frame is neat and the geometry is simple yet perfect. The white suspension fork adds a nice contrast to the olive green frame.

The Steel V-brakes at the front and rear handled the braking on this bicycle. These brakes were safe and balanced to use on dry urban roads. Braking performance on muddy flat surfaces were also decent. Wet surface braking wasn’t the most consistent and needs interval braking for safe stoppages. The brake levers were low quality plastic but were in easy reach from the grips.The stock handlebar was 58mm in width. This width was ideal for riding through traffic and felt comfortable and gives the rider an open chested posture.

The Wanda 26” x 2.125” MTB tires was treaded uniformly with thick patterns. The 26” circumference tires were fast rolling and the threads helped gain good traction on rough surfaces. The stock Firefox saddle was not the most ergonomic in design but had more than enough cushioning to keep the rider sore free. The overall ride quality of the Patrol 6S was comfortable on urban roads and flat rough surfaces.