Firefox Target 21-Speed Disc (2015) - Review

We had recently reviewed the Target V, the V-brake version of the Target and these 2 bicycles have the same frame. This alloy frame is built in a way to take in all the vibrations and hard beatings of the trails. During the test ride, I took this bicycle out on a flat muddy trail, which was rough with lot of small stones. The frame with tubes shaped neatly and smooth welds isn’t too heavy and can last a lifetime if maintained properly.The Firefox Target D comes with a front suspension fork. The SR Suntour fork with 63mm travel worked well during the test ride on minor bumps. Bigger drops won’t be the smoothest with this suspension fork.

The Firefox Target D comes with entry level Shimano MTB gearing components with Shimano Altus at the rear and Shimano Tourney at the front as derailleurs. These derailleurs even though being basic worked well during the test ride. The shifting process was smooth but there were few instances of lag in shifting in the front derailleur. The Shimano EF51 shifters were easy to use.

This hardtail MTB, which I test, rode came in a full black matte finish frame with red and white graphics. The top tube and bottom tube were disconnected at the top and was shaped neatly. The curved and thin seat stays and chain stays made this MTB look sleek at the back. The line pattern in red colour on the frame enhanced the aesthetics of this bicycle. The Firefox Target D also comes in a black/white colour variant.

As the name suggests the Firefox Target D comes with mechanical disc brakes at the front and back. These disc brakes are the main differentiation between the V-brake and Disc brake models. During the test ride on flat trails with lot of turns, these disc brakes worked like a wonder. They were both reactive and balanced.Handlebars are one of the most important components on any MTB as they help you control and steer the bicycle through the trails. The Zoom alloy handlebar was 64mm in length with a 3mm raise from the middle giving the rider a comfortable riding posture.

During my extensive test ride of this bicycle, there were very few instances when I had to put my leg on the ground to regain balance. This great traction was possible only because of the Kenda 26” x 2.1” MTB tires. These tires along with the alloy rims made for a great set of wheels for flat trail riding. The Firefox stock saddle was comfortable and had more than enough cushioning for a hardtail MTB. Ergonomical? Well, not much but enough to keep you pain free on those short trail rides.