Montra Downtown (2018) - Review

The Montra Downtown (2018) comes with a 661 Aluminium alloy frame, same as the 217 version. The frame's top tube, bottom tube and seat tube were all thin making the bicycle weight light. Riding geometry was comfortable with a slight bend in the elbow when reaching out to grab on to the handlebar.This hybrid bicycle comes with a steel rigid fork. This does add some extra weight to the bicycle which was evident only when lifting the bicycle and not riding. So maybe even more weight could have been shaved off the bicycle by giving an alloy fork but that does not stop the bicycle from riding smooth and fast on city streets.

The gearing department in the Downtown was equipped with Shimano Tourney at the front and rear as derailleurs. These 21-Speed derailleurs are the most basic gearing set up you could find. During the test ride these derailleurs worked well. It wasn’t the quickest to shift but was enough to get into different speeds, which would be required while riding in the city. Shimano Altus EF-5 shifters were better to use when compared to last year. They were in comfortable hand position and shifted quickly.

This hybrid bicycle which I test rode came in a full black primary colour with a green secondary colour. The blue colour from last year looked simple and elegant whilst this year's bright green shade makes it look vibrant. The gloss paint job quality was nevertheless top notch. But for such a successful hybrid model, having a 2nd colour variant would have been a great. Choice of colour is up to every individual and hence if you are looking for a flashy coloured hybrid bicycle for riding in the city, this will surely be a good pick for you.

Same like last year the exciting disc brake feature has been retained in the 218 version. The Logan LG-3 Mechanical Disc Brakes were balanced and reactive in usage. Both jamming the brakes and interval braking was safe to use while maneuvering in traffic and when turning. The brake levers were easy to operate. The XMR steel handlebar was of perfect length at 6mm. It gave the ideal riding position to control the bicycle in the city.

The Wanda 7x35C tires were sleek while still having enough traction on both flat tarmacs and slight muddy surfaces. The double walled alloy rims supported the tires well to make a lightweight wheel set for fast riding. The XMR Comfort saddle by Velo felt more ergonomic than last year while still retaining the level of cushioning on it. The overall ride quality was fast and comfortable on city roads.