Montra Rock 1.1 27.5" (2018) - Review

The Rock 1.1 27.5” is built on a hardtail alloy frame. This frame felt strong and can take a lot of hitting of the surface. The top tube isn’t too slanting, but it is disconnected from the bottom tube where it joins the head set. The geometry was aggressive and this is was good to keep the bicycle in control on fast paced trails.The Zoom CH-393 Suspension Fork on the MTB comes with a minimal 5mm travel. This is just about enough for bumpy flat trails and speed breakers on urban roads. Even though the suspension fork worked smoothly, a 75mm travel would have made sense for the purpose of this bicycle.

This 27.5” MTB comes equipped with Shimano Tourney at the front and rear. Yes, the Tourney is the most basic set of derailleurs on the MTB hierarchy and it does have its limits in performance. During the test ride these gears worked well with slow transmissions on flat trails and urban roads. The smaller downside of these entry level Tourney 21-Speed gears are that they will need tuning from time to time to keep cables perfect in tension for smooth shifting.

The Rock 1.1 27.5” which I test rode came in a full black frame with fluorescent green and white graphics. The gloss paint job on this MTB was top notch in quality with a neat shine to it. The edges of the tubes were welded perfectly and the colour coded rims and fork enhanced the aesthetics of this bicycle. The heavily treaded tires also gave this bicycle a rugged look.

The stopping power on this MTB is taken care of by a pair of Logan Mechanical Disc Brakes. These disc brakes were powerful enough for safe braking during fast rides and turns on flat easy trails. The brake levers were easy to use and needed only 2-3 fingers.The XMR Zoom Alloy handlebar on the Rock 1.1 27.5” MTB was 68mm in length. While this handlebar was lengthy enough for an open chested riding posture it wasn’t fully flat as it has a slight curve from the middle for a comfortable ride.

The Kenda Komodo K127 MTB tires measured 27.5” x 2.1” and were heavily treaded with thick rubber blocks and a uniform pattern to provide good traction on slippery trails. The XMR Trail saddle was ergonomic in shape and had just enough cushioning to keep the rider sore free on bumpy trail rides. The overall ride quality was comfortable on flat trails and urban roads.