KTM Chicago Disc 271 27.5T - Review

The KTM Chicago 271 27.5T is built using KTM's M11 Tech 661 Alloy frame. This frame has a tapered head tube and smooth welded edges to keep the most of the material at places in the frame which is capable of taking in vibrations of the trails. The slanting top tube makes the ride geometry aggressive and comfortable as well.The SR Suntour front suspension fork comes with a massive 8mm travel which worked really well on the roughest of trails. The manual suspension lock-out helped make the fork rigid and thus ride faster on flatter surfaces.

A performance focused MTB like the KTM Chicago requires precise gearing. This Bicycle is equipped with a Shimano Altus 3-Speed front derailleur and a Shimano Altus 9-Speed rear derailleur. This Altus rear derailleur is the latest version of this derailleur and worked seamlessly during the test ride. The Shimano Altus rapid fire shifters were smooth in shifting with an efficient spring action.

The Chicago 271 27.5T which we test rode came in a full Orange frame with Black as the secondary colour and internal cable routing for the gear cables. The gloss finish paint job was of superior quality. This Bicycle has information stickers all over which tells specific technical aspects that add a nice touch to the Bicycle. The wide MTB tires with big threads help the Bicycle look rugged.

The KTM Chicago 271 27.5T is equipped with Tektro Hydraulic Disc brakes. These brakes are the best you can find on a Hardtail MTB with 16mm rotors. These brakes were safe and balanced even on the most slippery and roughest of trails. The Alloy brake levers were easy to engage with just 2 or 3 fingers. The KTM Line Rizer MTB handlebar was wide in length. This wide handlebar made sure the rider has full control and great handling capabilities.

As in the name of this Bicycle, the KTM Chicago 271 27.5T rolls on a pair of Schwalbe Smart Sam 27.5” x 2.25” tires. These tires performed well on trails, mainly because of its thick tread patterns with hard compounds and the 2.25” width. These tires will keep you safe on the trails with maximum traction.The stock KTM Comp MTB saddle was ergonomic and keeps you comfortable on fast trail rides.